#3281 Southern Hospitality S4E04: Goodbye to Cucumbersome Friends

Summary

Watch What Crappens #3281

Southern Hospitality S4E04: Goodbye to Cucumbersome Friends

Release Date: March 26, 2026
Hosts: Ben Mandelker & Ronnie Karam

---

Episode Overview

This episode, Ben and Ronnie recap and dissect Southern Hospitality Season 4, Episode 4 (“Goodbye to Cucumbersome Friends”). It’s a surprisingly layered, sometimes heartfelt look at friendship boundaries, interventions, and social group tensions, all mixed with the classic Crappens humor. Key storylines include fallout from a chaotic “girls and gays” night, a raw confession about addiction, microaggressions and accountability within the cast, and the emotional calculus of supporting troubled friends. There are powerful moments, ridiculous party games—and the usual Bravo absurdity.

---

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Girls & Gays Night: Unraveling Friendship Drama

[02:54–13:25]

• Opening Salvo: Ben and Ronnie praise the episode’s emotional complexity and note the pivot from surface drama to deeper conflict between friends.
• Party Games Gone Wrong:
  • The cast at Molly and Lake’s Girls and Gays Night play “bobbing for cucumbers”—a not-so-subtle nod to the group’s wild streak.
  • Michael jokes: “I'm used to having, like, big things in my mouth anyway, so, like, don't be prude. You all do it.” (05:08, Michael via Ronnie)
• Rule-breaking and Tension:
  • No one sticks to the rules; everyone just wants a shot at the giant cucumbers.
  • Mia and Jordan snipe about dating the same guy (Justin), while Jordan laments feeling slighted.
  • Grace Lily continually stirs the pot, aiming pointed questions at Maddie—implying that Maddie “pegs” her boyfriend and that TJ and Joe have hooked up.
  • Maddie is mortified; Grace doubles down: “Take a fucking joke! Even though I just said three times it was a serious question. …I’m fucking like, Jesus Christ.” (12:17, Grace via Ben)

2. The Group Exiles Grace Lily

[15:13–17:07]

• Aftermath:
  • Mia and Molly, disgusted with Grace’s behavior, ask her to leave.
  • Ben confesses, “My heart kind of weirdly broke for her… she was acting like a total idiot at this party, but I... actually felt so sad for her in that moment.” (16:06)
  • Ronnie underscores, “Even if someone deserves it, it’s always sad to see one person getting the brunt.” (16:21)

3. Lake’s Family Pressure and Queer Journey

[18:06–20:48]

• Lake’s Call with Mom:
  • Funny banter about being named “Lake” to remind her to drink water (“Would you have rather me named you what your father wanted? Gallon Jug?” Ronnie as Mom, 18:33)
  • Lake reveals her strained relationship with her father after coming out. She shares pain over abandoning traditions and disappointing her family’s image as a prominent Black Southern dynasty.
• Ben notes: “There’s a lot of status quo when it comes to Black Southern generational wealth…and…pressure to uphold.” (19:36)

4. Maddie’s Inner Conflict: Supporting Grace through Addiction

[22:11–24:58]

• Maddie and Joe Decompress:
  • Maddie articulates why she’s stuck by Grace—despite the drama—because as someone in recovery, she fears not being there if Grace needs her.
  • “It’s a toxic relationship where, like, she can hurt me over and over and over again and then I’m just gonna, like, forgive her and I can’t do it anymore. …it’s draining me.” (22:33, Maddie via Ben)
  • Ronnie relays, “the selfless thing to do is to let her go and hopefully she'll change…maybe I'm not the person to help, and that's a hard pill to swallow. No pun intended.” (24:35)
• Reflection on Responsibility: They discuss the boundaries of helping addicts, the dangers of guilt, and when to let go.

5. Emmy, Brad, and the “Scary” Debate / Microaggression

[26:02–41:53]

• Brad Feels Betrayed:
  • At Sunday Brunch, Brad learns via Justin that Emmy only apologized to him out of fear he’d “ruin her life.”
  • “There’s not one second you've been real to me. …Your apology doesn't mean shit.” (29:10, Brad via Ben)
• Lake and Michael Reflect:
  • Lake is caught between loyalty to Emmy and understanding Brad’s pain as a Black man confronted with a “scary” stereotype (36:25–39:59).
  • “This is pissing her off, because…she’s always defended her own people…she’s always advocating.” (37:50, Ronnie)
• Difficult Conversation:
  • Michael tries to explain Brad’s distress to Lake, and Lake clarifies: “I don’t think [Emmy]'s racist, so that’s why I’m standing up for her…But then he's got a point, you know?” (39:59, Ronnie)
• Ben sums up:
  • “It highlights many, many of the complications…showing the nuance of racial situations and how it’s not always cut and dry.” (40:25)

6. Grace Lily’s Sobriety Confession: The Most Raw Scene Yet

[30:50–35:09]

• Meeting with a Sobriety Coach:
  • Grace admits a full-blown addiction to ketamine on camera for the first time, sharing her fear and guilt, especially after her friend’s death from the same drug batch.
  • “My motto in life is wavy, baby, and I’m sick of feeling trapped in my own body …I was like, that’s kind of a powerful sentiment to express.” (32:40, Ben)
  • Both hosts praise the scene and its honesty.
  • Ronnie notes the Bravo rarity: confessions of addiction usually get minimized; “There’s something very scary about coming out because addiction isn’t a straight line… it’s your whole life, you know. Good for her.” (34:12, Ronnie)

7. Body by Brad and Social Comparisons

[41:53–45:39]

• Brad’s New Venture:
  • Brad launches his fitness brand with a mall-style class, attended by Bravo and local characters (“clench those buttocks, people!” 43:01, Ronnie).
  • Joe feels inadequate, comparing his life trajectory to Brad's and others in the friend group.

8. Emmy’s (Lack of) Understanding of Microaggression

[48:46–53:55]

• Emmy’s Ignorance Exposed:
  • Emmy reacts with confusion and mockery when Ella informs her that Brad called her out for a microaggression in calling him “scary.”
  • A hilarious, cringe breakdown of Emmy trying—and failing—to define “microaggression”:
    “Microaggression is when you…you make a micro…like, a little…like a tiny, like, little. It's not little, but smaller than little... Like women are bad drivers. Yeah.” (52:33, Emmy via Ronnie)
• Montage of Confusion: Ben and Ronnie laugh over Emmy’s cluelessness, mocking her invented definitions and comparing microaggression to “micro machines.”
• Justin sums up:
  “I feel like Emmy is taking the low road in this situation and being combative about it, and I feel like she's minimizing Brad's experience.” (52:33)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Take a fucking joke! Even though I just said three times it was a serious question. …I’m fucking like, Jesus Christ.” — Grace Lily (12:17)
• “The selfless thing to do is to let her go and hopefully she'll change and stop hurting the people she loves… that's a hard pill to swallow. No pun intended.” — Ronnie (24:35)
• “It highlights many, many of the complications…showing the nuance of racial situations and how, like, it's just—not always cut and dry.” — Ben (40:25)
• “Microaggression is when you…you make a micro…like…a tiny, like, little. It's not little, but smaller than little... Like, women are bad drivers. Yeah.” — Emmy (52:33)
• “My motto in life is wavy, baby, and I’m sick of feeling trapped in my own body when I've always been a free spirit.” — Grace Lily (32:40)
• “You can be as strong as you want, but drugs are stronger. They are stronger.” — Ronnie (33:04)

---

Important Timestamps & Segments

• [02:54–13:25] – Girls and Gays Night: drama, games, and insults fly
• [15:13–17:07] – Grace is asked to leave; unusual sympathy
• [18:06–20:48] – Lake’s family pressure and struggle with coming out
• [22:11–24:58] – Maddie on addiction, boundaries, and letting go
• [26:02–41:53] – Brad, Emmy, microaggression, and Lake’s torn loyalties
• [30:50–35:09] – Grace’s heartbreaking sobriety confession
• [41:53–45:39] – Brad’s fitness launch; Joe’s comparison spiral
• [48:46–53:55] – Emmy’s clownish misunderstanding of microaggression
• [53:55–end] – Episode wrap-up and sign-off

---

Final Thoughts

This episode of Watch What Crappens stands out for highlighting the messy complexity of friendship, accountability, and personal growth within a Bravo reality context. Ben and Ronnie balance their trademark wit with genuine empathy, especially in discussing addiction and the nuanced impacts of microaggressions. The show’s chaotic fun is never far away, but the episode also delivers real, thought-provoking moments.

For fans: “Who knew Southern Hospitality would offer some of Bravo’s most thoughtful reality television?!”

Transcript

[Kelly Clarkson]

Hey, y', all, it's Kelly Clarkson with Wayfair, where delivery and setup are as easy as a few taps on your phone. Picture this, you're relaxing in an old hammock, scrolling Wayfair's app when you spot it. A brand new patio set. Next thing you know, Wayfair delivers it right to your patio and sets it up. Oh, you need a new grill, too. All right, Wayfair's got you covered. With Wayfair's room of choice delivery and fast expert setup on qualifying orders, life gets a little easier. Visit Wayfair.com or the Wayfair app. Wayfair Every style, Every home.

[Ben]

You guys, I have some legendary news for you. Twenty years after its debut, the HBO original comedy series the Comeback is finally back. I've always loved how the show skewers Hollywood, and seeing Lisa Kudrow return as the iconic Valerie Cherish is exactly what we need right now.

[Ronnie]

This season picks up over a decade later. Valerie is finally starring in a new show. But here's the twist. It's being written by AI she's still navigating the chaos in the industry and chasing those big dreams with that same Valerie Cherish energy we adore.

[Ben]

If you're watching this season, and you really should be, by the way, you've got to check out the official Comeback. Podcast host Evan Ross Katz is joined by Lisa Kudrow and Michael Patrick King to unpack every episode to dive into the show's origins and why Valerie is still such a relatable, resilient character after two decades.

[Ronnie]

You'll also hear from cast members like Laura Silverman and Ella Stiller, plus comedy powerhouses like Abby Jacobson and John Early. For anyone who loves a behind the scenes look at how iconic TV is made, this is a must. Listen.

[Ben]

Stream the HBO original series the Comeback on HBO max Sundays at 10:30pm and watch the Comeback podcast on HBO Max. Or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Watch what crap happens. Who cares what happens when there's so much that happens?

[Ronnie]

Hello and welcome to the Silky Dulcet Tones of Watch what Grabens. I'm Ronnie and that's Ben over there. Hello.

[Ben]

Hi, Ronnie. What's going on?

[Ronnie]

Nothing. You guys, today is Southern Hospitality Day. Very exciting times over here. If you want this on video, you can get [e-mail] that's also where you get our bonus episodes. Next week, for the first time ever, we will be doing a full Survivor recap just for fun, because we love it. So check out over on Patreon that's also where you get bonus. Like I just said, bonus ad, free Listening Discord server, and a free newsletter. If you don't want to pay for any of that, you don't have to. Just go become a Patreon member for free and get our weekly blog about all things Bravo and sometimes our personal lives. What do you think about that today?

[Ben]

Sounds great.

[Ronnie]

Southern Hospital. Ben, what say you?

[Ben]

What a good episode. I mean, this show is so good. That's so good. Really, the reason why it was a good episode was different. I mean, there was drama in this episode. The past episodes of the season have had lots of drama. That's been, like, soapy and fun. This one was actually, I thought, pretty fascinating. Showed the complications of what it means to show up to someone as a friend. And I thought we saw that with Maddie and Grace Lily, and we see that with Lake and Emmy and. And Brad. And I thought it was a. I thought it was really. I thought it was pretty fascinating, actually. It was, like, sort of caught me by surprise. What about you?

[Ronnie]

Pretty good. Good. That's my Tom Colicchio answer, you know, it was pretty good. The challenge was to make a good episode, and I think you did it, and I think he did it. Overall, did you mean to get Grace Lily out on the same episode where she came out as a drug addict? Okay, here we go. Southern Hospitality Season 4, Episode 4 Saving Grace Maddie narrates what's been going on. And then we are back to Molly and Lake's Girls and gays night. And Grace Lily is like, I really need to be quiet before I say something I'm not supposed to say. Say. So let me just stop talking right now. I'm not gonna say nothing then.

[Ben]

Yeah. And everyone is like that. There's, like, something. A splash. Everyone's like, what's that? And Michaels has put his face into the cooler full of cucumbers. And they're like, oh, my God. Michael's oh, my God. He's gonna die. He's gonna die. He's like, no, y' all are doing too much. I'm, like, ready to play the game. So Molly's like, okay, everyone. Okay, so we're just gonna pivot to this real quickly. Let's explain the game. So we're going to go bobbing for penises. Sl. Bobbing for cucumbers. And Michaels is, like, trying to get his cucumber, but he can't get. So then he finally pulls one up. It's, like, in his mouth. It's, like, sexy. It's like the dick in his mouth. Everyone's like, oh, my God, I love it. My God.

[Ronnie]

He's like, I'm used to having, like, big things in my mouth anyway, so, like, don't be prude. You all do it. And so they're gonna play this game. So it's kind of truth. Like you can either answer the question or you can bob for a cucumber, but it turns into answering the question and then bobbing for a cucumber. No one really pays attention to the rules because they all want to bob for the cucumber.

[Ben]

They. They do want these enormous cucumbers, so.

[Ronnie]

And they've also been all over Michael's and TJ sticks. And no one really cares because I guess they've been in water, so who cares? You know what else has been in water? Brain eating algae.

[Ben]

Yep, that's right. So the. The game gets kicks off and Mia asks the first question. Tj, what's the name of the last person you had sex with? I'm just gonna. I'm just gonna do the cucumber thing. So then he takes off his shirt for no reason. Didn't really make sense, but he's like, I'm taking my shirt. It's been 16 months since I've had sex. So no, I don't remember the guy's name. Oh, God, tj, you look real good. You look good. Doing that o job for you. I would watch you on a gay porn.

[Ronnie]

They all laugh. And now, Molly, Molly, when's the last time you hooked up with Bailey? And that's her ex boyfriend? She's like, Wednesday. And they're like, oh, my God, today's Wednesday. And now it's that Jordan girl's turn. The bartender with the rouge. And so they're like, jordan, when's the last time you had sex with Justin? She's like, oh, my God, it was Thursday. And they're like, oh, my God, watch your hair. Wait. But she bobs anyway. But she can't really do it, so she just pulls a cucumber out and puts it in her mouth.

[Ben]

And Lake is like, wait, did you say yes to going on a date with Justin? And why? Amia's like, I said, you know what? I said yes initially. And why? Well, just, you know, because. And Jordan goes, but did you even think about me? She goes, no, no, I didn't. She's like, I'm not friends with Jordan. I barely know her. Like, I literally just get out of a relationship. So a hot guy's in front of me. I'm not thinking about you. Sorry.

[Ronnie]

Mia's like, I'm going to speak for the audience here and say, I didn't think about Julia. Okay. Jordan. I didn't. I didn't remember her name. I did not think about Jordan. Okay. Still not thinking about Jordan. Okay. Also, he said marbled and Finn and that's like my favorite place to go. And Jordan's like, that's my favorite restaurant as well. That's why I said yes.

[Ben]

Okay.

[Ronnie]

Because it's a great restaurant that I knew you probably loved, but I canceled it. Oh, free. Not because of you, because I just. I'm not really into him. And I couldn't imagine being on a date with him when Jordan's so upset. Just kidding. Just because I don't like him. You know? I mean, I look across from him and I think, oh, God, how could Jordan have sex with this guy? Right, Jordan? Am I right? So I just thought, how many pathetic people does this friend group need? Jordan, you win. Congrats, Jordan.

[Ben]

I just saw this guy and I thought, wow, I just cannot be another one of those pathetic girls who lines up to date this guy. Okay, yeah, I could get aid, but is it worth it? I mean, I think it's time that we women have more self respect. Anyway, have a great time with him, Jordan. Have a great time.

[Ronnie]

So, you know, I just thought, what came first, the Justin or the rouge? And I just didn't want to risk it. So you can keep them, Jordan. Love the rouge.

[Ben]

So then Michaels is like, girl, you shouldn't have. You should have known better than to go on Justin. And he just like, yeah, I mean, like, you really can't get upset. She's like, oh, no, I'm not upset about him dating, like, asking me out on a date. It's like, not my issue. I'm like, not upset. I'm like, totally not upset.

[Ronnie]

I'm not upset. She's trying to make this a thing with Mia, but you are going up against the wrong person. And I don't like that. Her answer is basically insinuating. It's not about him asking Mia out on a date. It's about Mia, who should be a girl's girl and not go out on the date with Justin. Right? I think that's what she's insinuating. But you're at work, like, you're you all, everybody at work. And this guy's told you a million times he doesn't want anything with you, so. But then we see him later in a scene where she's like, just don't date anybody in my friend circle. And he's like, oh, okay.

[Ben]

Yeah, good luck with that. TJ's like, Jordan can't get mad because she knows that Justin hooks up with other girls. And Lake's like, yeah, she's at this man's house every single night, and they have, like, a relationship, and he has, like, a toothbrush for toothbrush for her. So, like, it's just, like, up.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. So, you know, that's maybe a sign of a relationship, but it's also a sign of somebody coming over without a toothbrush. And you don't want to kiss them when they're stinky, so you just have a toothbrush. He probably also has, like, a 10 pack of toothbrushes where he's like, here.

[Ben]

He probably does. Lake is up next to ask answer a question. So Mia says, whose team are you more on? Brad's or Emmys? And, like, without a. That, like, a hesitation, she goes, emmys. And it was like, oh, you are just. And they're like, wow. No hesitation, I'm gone. And Lake is like, why is everybody so shocked? Like, literally, Brad friend zoned me, and then he made out with me, and then he got a girlfriend, so obviously I would choose Emmy. Like, huh. So everyone's like, you know? Yeah.

[Ronnie]

So now. Yeah, so now Grace goes and, hell, no, I'm not doing that. I don't do that. I already been baptized. I can do that. I'm not comfortable with it. And Mia's like, you have to participate. Just. No, I don't think it's appropriate. I'm sorry. Okay? I know Jesus and Buddha. And let me tell you what, neither one of them did Bob for Dicks, okay? It ain't anywhere in the Bible.

[Ben]

Grace Lilly does not get on her knees to Bob for cucumbers. Come on. I get on my knees for God and for Bob Marley.

[Ronnie]

Okay, then, Maddie, your turn. So Grace Lily is like, maddie Reese, have you Joe in the ass?

[Ben]

Everyone's like, oh, my God, Why? Because I have, like, a penis? She's like, no, I mean, he likes in the butt, right? No, I just thought I'd ask. She's got.

[Ronnie]

He not.

[Ben]

Okay, she's coming for me tonight. She's like, no, no, it's a real question. I want to know, does he like it?

[Ronnie]

And.

[Ben]

Yes, that's it. Just a real question.

[Ronnie]

She's like, no, you've, like, been coming for me, like, since the moment I arrived here.

[Ben]

Like, seriously, it's super clear that Grace is, like, trying to embarrass me, and I'm over it. Okay? I would not be embarrassed. Now excuse me while I stick my head into a giant cooler of water and pull out a cucumber with my teeth.

[Ronnie]

It's just a real question. Okay. I thought TJ and Joe hooked up, though. They're like, what? Oh, my God. And Mia's like, oh, my God, Grace. If I were her, I would never talk to your ass again. But that's what TJ Said. And they're like, no, he didn't. And Grace is like, huh? I thought it was a real question. And TJ Is telling us, God damn it, Grace. I've never talked to Grace about Joe and myself. Like, if, you know, I'm finally in a better place with Joe and Maddie, like, this is the last thing I want. And me is like, you took it way too far. And you act like this. And you're like, why doesn't we call me or text me or do anything? But that's who I am, though. That's who I am.

[Ben]

I mean, take a fucking joke. Even though I just said three times it was a serious question. We're playing a stupid fucking game. I say one wrong thing, and I'm crucified. And I'm fucking like, Jesus Christ. And you know what? I think the biggest reason why I relate that man so much is because he was human. Probably relate to a lot of people in that case. Yeah, you've got a lot.

[Ronnie]

You've got almost anyone that you can relate to.

[Ben]

Yeah, almost.

[Ronnie]

So Mia's like, do you know, you wonder why people don't invite you anywhere. It's because of, like, this, and your ass attitude you have is crazy. And then for you to look at her and say some crazy asshole hurtful like that, that is getting wild. You're crazy. And she's like, it was legit question, though. Jesus would have asked it. Don't you remember in the Bible, Jesus turned to Matthew and he said, you like it up the ass? I mean, no one got on him about it. I mean, granted, he got crucified, but it wasn't because it asked questions.

[Ben]

No, it was not a legit question. I thought that they hooked up, though. Like, her. Her protests are sort of getting quieter and more like. But I thought it was serious. I thought he lighted up the ass.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. And she goes, you know it's not legit. You know it. And she. But T.J. said it. T.J. never said it. And you know that. So get her out of my face. You know what? I'm going to punch her in the head. I'm going to punch her in the head.

[Ben]

Weren't you surprised that TJ didn't say anything? What? I. If I were tj, I would have been like, I never said that. What are you talking about? But he just sort of sat there and, like, had this look on his

[Ronnie]

face like, it's time for a commercial. It's time for a commercial.

[Kelly Clarkson]

Elevated cooking starts with elevated ingredients, especially when it comes to seafood. Wild Alaskan company delivers perfectly portioned wild caught fish straight to your door. It's frozen fresh off the waters of Alaska, capturing pure flavor, texture, and key nutrients. Never farmed. No antibiotics, GMOs, or additives. Just impeccably portioned fish that cooks beautifully and tastes exceptional. Backed by a 100% money back guarantee. Go to wildalaskan.com elevate for $35 off your first box of premium wild Caught Seafood.

[Bill.com Announcer]

Over 90 of the top 100 US accounting firms trust Bill to handle bill pay processes. Why? Because our tools are built on over a trillion dollars of secure payments. We're not just moving money. We're powering financial workflows for half a million customers. That's a level of expertise you just can't fake. Ready to talk with an expert? Visit bill.comproven to get started and grab a $250 gift card as a thank you. Terms and conditions apply. See offer page for details.

[Ben]

So then Mia is like, even though Maddie and I are not the best of friends because, you know, cardboard cutout gate, this is wrong. And I know I'm right for. I know my right for my wrong. Molly goes. Hello. I think that you came in here and you were, off the bat, disrespectful to me and my very impressive charcuterie display. And then you created a really awkward environment for everyone in here. And then you came for Maddie. And now I think it's time for you to leave and for me to take your position on this show. Thank you. You can see your way out. And Grace Lilly is. She's like, okay, I understand. It's okay. Thank you for inviting me. I appreciate it. She's like, very like. She's like, I don't know. I actually felt so sad for her in that moment. I don't know why. It was weird. Gracefully was acting like a total idiot at this party. But it was in that moment where, I don't know, I just. My heart kind of weirdly broke for her. I can't explain it, I think, because

[Ronnie]

it's like she's in a group where nobody really likes her and they're finally all telling her, like, off, you know? And even if someone deserves it, it's always sad to see some, like, one person getting the. The brunt. But she did earn this one. For sure.

[Ben]

She did. Okay.

[Ronnie]

I guess I'll go wear pajamas in a place I know there's going to be pajamas because I told myself there'd be pajamas at home then. Bye. Bye.

[Ben]

Bye. Oh, is my phone over there? I think my phone's over. Is my phone there? Is it. Is it behind you? Is it.

[Ronnie]

Where?

[Ben]

Which one? Which one? Mia's like, which one? Which one's your phone? Which. Which is your phone? I think it's that maybe a fail in the. In the crack. Is it over there? It goes on for, like, 10 minutes.

[Ronnie]

It's like. It's like the TJ. You know, it sleep between. Just think of the couch as Joe's butt crack and then my phone TJ sliding between it. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I thought it was. What happened.

[Ben]

It was a serious analogy. So she finally gets.

[Ronnie]

So she just leaves.

[Ben]

So awkward.

[Ronnie]

It's really awkward. And so Michael's asks Maddie if she's good. She's like, I'm just exhausted. And Mia's like, maddie, you should have been exhausted last year in Vegas. I've been telling you she's nuts.

[Ben]

We have a flashback to last year in Vegas and Grace Silly going off on Maddie at that restaurant. Like, you are so fake. You were so fake. Well, she had your back, like, no, no, no, she's not had my back. Yes, I have. The way you were. The way you were speaking to her right now you can actually bring me to tears, which is very difficult. That was me.

[Ronnie]

So Maddie's like, no, I know, I know. You know, like, it's embarrassing that I'm the one keeping her around. And then she, like, constantly will, like, implode on me, you know? Like, I feel like she constantly hurts me and goes to bed at night, like, thinking she's, like, holier than now because she knows Jesus and Buddha and that guy who smokes a lot of weed and makes, like, reggae music. But, like, time has proven over and over again that, like, maybe we're just not meant to be friends.

[Ben]

So now it's a new day, and Lake is FaceTiming with her mom, and her mom's like, are you drinking water? Are you drinking water? And she's like, mom, no, it's been more liquor. She's like, honey, she's like, I know, Mom. Please make sure you're drinking enough water, honey. It is so hot in Charleston. You need to make sure you're hydrating extra. It's everything. Hydrate. Like your name is named after hydration. So you would never forget. And look what you're doing. Forgetting.

[Ronnie]

Would you have rather me named you what your father wanted to name you? Gallon Jug. Okay, I chose a classier name. And you're still forgetting Lake. Okay, I said it doesn't need to be so on the nose, honey. God. But still, you won't drink that water. Honey, please drink your water.

[Ben]

So Gatorade, Rucker, I demand that you drink your water.

[Ronnie]

So, like, it's like, well, speaking of Dad, I spoke to dad the other day, and she's like, oh, you did? She goes, yeah. Like, it's like, still kind of like we don't talk every day, but. Because we went from talking on the phone every day, multiple times every single day, to clear silence. Because, like, I don't think he can open his eyes to the idea of me liking girls. So she's saying that last year she kind of came out of the closet about her first girlfriend, and, you know, how she had her sexual awakening with her best friend and girlfriend and that her dad got really pissed that she shared that on camera and that he says that she's disrespectful and has no respect for anybody. And she's like, he made me feel like I killed somebody.

[Ben]

And the mom's like, you know what? He's just dramatic. You got that from him for sure. Drama and not drinking your water. And she goes, yeah, there's a lot of status quo when it comes to black Southern generational wealth. And she talks about how her great. Her great grandparents were millionaires in the 30s, and there's a whole school named after her great grandfather. And there's this whole legacy that their family has and also a subsequent family image that, like, there's a lot of pressure to uphold. And so, Jerry, her mom is like, well, sometimes when people are angry, they react. And I don't think your dad really believes that you're a disrespectful or bad person. He just is not going to have, you know, some sort of therapeutic conversation, especially if you haven't been drinking your water.

[Ronnie]

He's not going to have a conversation with a dry person. Like, okay. And she's like, but like, Michaels is trying to call me. Hold on, let me decline him. And she's like, okay, well, I'd rather talk to him. Just kidding. Michael's or what we call him in my house, moisturized Michaels. Okay. Tell him I said his skin looks glowing. Okay, so if you're waiting for a long, drawn out apology from your dad, manage your expectations, because it's your dad. Okay? Just give him a decent meat filled sandwich, pat him on the back, and

[Ben]

just be thankful he still loves you. He broke my heart, destroyed my family. But, like, he. He loves you and that's what matters the most. Like, you know. I know. And you know, when you become an adult, you get to dictate the kind of relationship you want to have with your parents. I recommend a good one with me, a bad one with him. And the flip side is that your parents get to dictate the type of relationship they want with you. And in his case, he's just gonna be a dick to you. So that's it. Okay, honey, have that water. I'll talk to you later. Bye.

[Ronnie]

So then we go to Maddie and Joe at home, and Joe's like, oh, my God, is that dragon fruit? Is that like dragon fruit that you're eating?

[Ben]

Joe, Joe, can you just make me a tea?

[Ronnie]

Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Ben]

How many times I tell you it's an apple. Every single day it's an apple. It's a wax apple. It's the same apple that's there every single day. Joe. It's not dragon fruit.

[Ronnie]

Joe, instead of dragon apple. No, dragon fruit. Basically, like apples. But what other fruit do dragon eat?

[Ben]

Joe, I seriously, I'm gonna take back the charger side of the bed if you keep asking me about the dragon fruit. Seriously.

[Ronnie]

Wow, look at. It's such a nice day out here. This looks so nice. Like, hey.

[Ben]

So nice.

[Ronnie]

Anybody come to Republic later? I'll be there. I'm just trying to walk my dog, sir. Still. Still, though. Got her.

[Ben]

Showed it. Stop harassing the people on the street, okay? Not everything's about bringing people to. To Republic. Hey, wait. Hey, guy out on the street, is this a dragon fruit? Joe, stop showing him the apple. Okay? Wax.

[Ronnie]

So, like, have. As Grace reached out, like, have you texted Grace? She's like, no, not today. Like, I tried to keep her a part of this group, and then she just, like, embarrasses me pretty much insinuating that, like, I peg you, which is, like, crazy. He's like, yeah, like, it is crazy. Like, hold on, I need to move this pillow over under me. This chair's really hard.

[Ben]

I did like that. Joe just like, laughed when she said, yeah, she insinuated that. I beg you. He goes, oh, yeah, that's up. Like, I almost, like, want to laugh. I know. What, I think I'm gonna laugh. Haha. I just laughed. Okay, so that was the story of my laugh. And that's just like, clearly a jab to, like, hurt you and like that. And why is she, like, trying to hurt you? Like, I don't know if she's like, jealousy or she has like, some resentment towards you, but, like, by the way, it could be all the above. Joe, just want to say, but you do like a million things for her and like, she. All she does is bring it down. Like, not friendship. Yeah, it's like a toxic relationship where, like, she can hurt me over and over and over again and then I'm just gonna, like, forgive her and I can't do it anymore. It's like. It's like it's draining me. It's like, it's like. It's like when you try to juice that dragon fruit on the counter. Joe, you can't even do. It's wax and it's not a dragon fruit. Come on, Joe.

[Ronnie]

So she says that there's something that they're not talking about here, and it's the reason that she sticks around as a friend. And she says she has empathy for Grace and what she's going through because she can relate to it and she didn't want her to be alone or God forbid, something happens and she misses that call because, you know, it's. It's substance abuse, basically. She's like. And as someone who's in recovery, you want to be there for your friend when they're suffering, you know, and you don't want them to die or something. And you not be the one answering the phone.

[Ben]

Which probably explains, like, a lot of Grace's behavior over the last season or two. Remember, she was like, super late for the performance she's supposed to be at. She was like, like, you know, she was super, super late. Showed up last minute. You know, when you look back, like, oh, maybe there was more going on in Vegas than we realize, but this is actually, like. It's actually heartbreaking to see Maddie like this because, you know, this a very, very serious situation, and it's a very serious thing in Maddie's life. And you can see she just wants to help her friend, even if it means that she has to take a whole bunch of pot shots about. About pajamas in the process. But for real, she has to take. She's like, man, I have to put up with all this. But it's like, it's Worth it for me to try to save my friend.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. And Joe's saying, well, look, everything you're doing is clearly not working, you know, so, like, I get that you're trying, but it doesn't seem to be doing anything. And Maddie's saying, you know, the selfless thing to do is to let her go and hopefully she'll change and stop hurting the people she loves. And she's like, I'm not helping, so maybe I'm not the person to help, you know? And that's a hard pill to swallow. No pun intended.

[Ben]

So Joe's like, you know, maybe a different phrase there. Yeah.

[Ronnie]

And Joe's like, well, you've had a hard year, too, you know, so it's. You know, I don't know that we've all had this. I've certainly had this discussion in my life. It's like, well, okay, well, I've had that problem, too, and people didn't abandon me. So if I have somebody going through that problem, how much are you there? How much are you supposed to be there? You know, like, how much do you have to take until I think everything is different.

[Ben]

Every situation is different. And also, like, at certain point, certain things are sort of out of your hand. And it's like, a lot of times, even when people ask for advice with relationships or whatever, a certain point you say, you got to get professional help. Right? Like, I can only. I can't help you. I have a limit to what I can do, and I want to help all as much as I can, but, like, not everyone. It's just, like, it may be just too big for Maddie, and she shouldn't be beating herself up for that. Like, it's. It's a. It's a big ask, and, you know, it's. It's. It's really sad to see her going through it over this.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. Yeah. It's a rough one. So now it's Sunday brunch, and Michaels is leading his meeting. He's like, all right. Like, happy Sunday. It's a fun Sunday, right? So, you know, the weather's cool. Okay. Why are you touching my nipples right now? Oh, my God, it's so hard. One of the waitresses, like, your nipples are so hard right now. He's like, okay, so let's get set up. Let's get Maddie. Play some tunes, I guess. Okay, great pep talk, everybody. It's fun. My nipples are really, really hard right now.

[Ben]

There's a girl named Bella there, and she's also playing with his nipples. It's like, okay, everyone, come on. Get to work. So Brad's mixing some juices. He's getting ready. He's excited. And he says. He's telling. He's saying that he's gonna. Telling Justin that he's gonna. He's gonna say something to Emmy today. And he's like, you know. You know, like, running into her in the event and how she, like, went mute on me and Julia. He's like, oh, yeah. So Brad tells us a story that, you know, everything seemed to be fine with him and Emmy at Folly beach, and then they went to an influencer event, and at one of his favorite restaurants in town. So adding insult injury. And she see. They see Emmy, and they say, hi, and it's nice, and everything's fine. But then when Will walked in, Emmy shifted, and she just basically started giving them not just a cold shoulder. I mean, she was just blatantly ignoring them. Wouldn't make eye contact, anything. And Brad's confused because he thought that they were working towards something better. And it just. He says, like, it's just like, oh, wait a second. The second your fiance comes around, everything changes.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. And so Justin's like, yeah, you know, like, I asked her, like, you're making amends because you think you feel bad, and you think you up in that situation. And she's like, no, I think if I don't make amends that Brad and TJ Are gonna ruin my life. And Brad's like, what? And he goes, yeah. So then we see a flashback. I mean, Emmy is just such a dodo bird. She's not only saying this stuff. She says it all on camera, you know?

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Ronnie]

She's like, oh, well, I don't want to say I. I apologize to Brad, but Brad was terrifying. Or like, you know, okay, I apologize to TJ But TJ does need to stop getting guys drunk, straight guys drunk, so he can take advantage of him. It's like. And then this. Here's another example. She's telling him on camera. Yeah. I was, like, best friends with him, and, like, I've seen what Brad's done to his. You know, like. Like, when his feelings are like, I've seen how TJ Reacted to Joe, you know? So, like, it gives me anxiety because I'm like, I mean, all right, like, if they want to put their heads together, like, they could really try. And my life, you know? And, like, what I've learned is, like, I'm sorry. Like, I. You know, I just. I just say I'm sorry. That's all I do. But Like, I'm terrified of them.

[Ben]

Like.

[Ronnie]

Like, they could ruin my life.

[Ben]

I think Emmy is doing a good job of it on her own, personally. I mean, I assume also what she was saying is, like, Brad made up an entire lie about Maddie, Maddie's boyfriend cheating just to get back at Maddie. So, like, what would, like, what spiteful thing might he do to me? But I kind of think that, like, you apo.

[Ronnie]

You.

[Ben]

You had this really nice apology moment with him, and, like, just lean into that and try to grow your friendship, and then you just call up this guy Justin, who you don't even really know, and you're going to say this stuff. You're like, oh, God. Oh, this is bad. This is really bad.

[Ronnie]

Well, yeah, it's like, what is she doing? Does she want this stuff to get back to them? That's what's confusing because. Or is she just bad at this?

[Ben]

Yeah, I think she's bad. I think she's just bad, honestly. So now Brad's like, did I get played? There's, like, not one second where you've been real to me. Everything was just an act. Your apology doesn't mean shit. And everything you said is all bullshit because everything you said is bullshit. So fuck you. I'm pissed. Commercials. Here comes one right now.

[Bill.com Announcer]

When it comes to managing money, forget the hype and look at the results. Bill has a trillion dollars of secure payments powering our BillPay tools. Instead of just moving money, Bill is powering the financial operations of nearly half a million customers. So stop the guesswork and start scaling with the proven choice. Ready to talk with an expert, visit bill.comproven to get started and grab a $250 gift card as a thank you. Terms and conditions apply. See offer page for details.

[Tommy John Announcer]

Guys, it's no use putting it off. The best time for an underwear refresh is now. Tommy John underwear is designed for a perfect fit that stays put all day. There's zero chafe, thanks to four times more stretch than competing brands. And their innovative horizontal quick draw fly is a game changer. With over 30 million pairs sold, there are thousands of men out there more comfortable than you. Don't settle for less. Go to tommyjohn.com today for 25% off your first order with code COMFORT. That's tommyjohn.comfort. tommy John Comfort. Perfected.

[Ronnie]

Okay, so then we go to Grace Lilly, which I was very surprised by this scene. I was really fully shocked that this is happening on southern hospitality, especially with Grace. So Grace tells us that Maddie basically has not been talking to her. And she needs Maddie because Maddie holds her accountable and she needs that. And she says, Maddie's the only one that knows what I struggle with. And I want to be better for myself and the people around me. And I can't work by myself forever. So she goes to see a. What is he?

[Ben]

Sobriety coach.

[Ronnie]

Sobriety coach. Okay.

[Ben]

A sobriety coach named Isaac. And basically we have a long and pretty powerful scene where she meets with Isaac and talks about, basically, that she started doing ketamine a few years ago, and she started doing it more and more and more, and she's essentially addicted to it. And then she had a really scary thing to happen, which is that, like, one of her best friends died from the same batch of ketamine that she was using. And that was. That's, like, obviously, like, terrifying. And so we see her just kind of trying to negotiate this whole situation. She's never reached out for professional help before. She hasn't really ever talked about it. She hasn't even told her parents. So we see her talking to this guy and, you know, it's. I was pretty. It was. It was like, definitely her most, like, emotionally honest scene that we've. I should not. Emotionally honest. Emotionally raw scene we've seen from her ever before.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. I mean, basically coming clean. You know, it was basically like an AA meeting on camera where she's like, I'm a drug addict and I can't do it alone and I need help, and she cries and stuff. And it's. But so, I mean, I was. I was surprised. It was a good scene, you know, Good for her for doing it.

[Ben]

Yeah, it was powerful when she said, like, you know, I always felt like I was stronger than this or I wouldn't basically fall into this. And my whole thing is, my motto in life is wavy, baby. And, like, I'm sick of feeling trapped in my own body when I've always been a free spirit. I was like, that was kind of a powerful sentiment to express. And, like, she just wants to be out there and free, but she's kind of like a prisoner to addiction right now.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. So drugs are always stronger. Drugs are strong. You can be as strong as you want, but drugs are stronger. They are stronger.

[Ben]

So scary.

[Ronnie]

So, yeah, it's a. It's a good scene. Good for her. You know, we know that since this, she's been in trouble twice so far. I shouldn't say so far. That's a rude way to put it, but she's been in trouble twice. She's been arrested twice. One time was for having happy pills and the second time, I don't know

[Ben]

what it was was.

[Ronnie]

It was drugs. It was drug related again. But I, they didn't, I don't think they specified what it was that time, so. Oh, it sucks. I love Grace Lily. I love her.

[Ben]

I know we want her to just to get better and to like to, to be able to persevere. It's very scary. It is very scary seeing she talked about this and then, you know, and like you said, her like her arrests etc, like you just hope that this is not a downward spiral and that she continues to move upwards. But as Isaac said and as many others have said before, recovery is not a straight line up. And so she's definitely on a journey. But we're so. I'm so, so glad that she is now reaching out for help. And that's like really brave of her to do that on tv. So. You know.

[Ronnie]

Yeah, on tv because. And there's a reason that people avoid it on tv. You know, they'll say, you know, like we talked about the Karen thing. Karen from Real Housewives of Potomac went to, went to jail for drunk, drunk like her fourth DUI or whatever and then had a interview and wouldn't really say out the word alcoholic. She refused. You know, she took accountability kind of. But there's a reason that on shows like Southern Charm or Summer House or they use terms like Adderall, you know, they'll pick the legal door. It was just weed. I was addicted to weed. There is something very scary about coming out because addiction isn't a straight line. And there's. It's not like you people expect on tv. It's like a storyline. So you go on, you talk about it and then it's over. You get over it and then the next season you're fine. And that's just not how it works. You know, it goes on forever. It goes. It's your whole life, you know, it's your whole life of dealing with it. So good for her.

[Ben]

Forget good for her and best of luck and we hope that she comes out on top. So now we go over to Michael's new apartment and he doesn't have to be in work until 4pm he gets a text from Leva. It's all, oh my God, I'm gonna get to sleep in tonight. Thank God. So Lake comes over and they're saying hi and everything and they're just like, you know, gathering at. They sit down in the windowsill and she's like, oh my God, I Haven't been here during the daytime. It's like, yeah, because you're a lady of the night. She's like, yeah, I'm a lady of the night. Let me just sit on the IKEA bag. Yeah, it's like a work in progress. Like, I'm almost on Be proud of me.

[Ronnie]

So they start talking about Emmy. He's like, okay, so how do you feel about, like, after your intervention or whatever? And she's like, what? And he says about Emmy. And so we see Lake sharing that she was on Emmy's team at the girls night. And she's like, well, obviously, like, I trust Emmy more than Brad. Like, I don't even talk to him anymore. Like, we made out like twice. It's not like he. We had a million long relationship. Like, I don't know that guy. Shit. He's like, yeah, but you know, you have to understand Brad because like, today I worked out with him and he said, I thought Lake would have more sympathy for the comment that was made. And she's like, oh, like the unsafe miss the unsafeness and the microaggression.

[Ben]

And he's like, yo. Because he was like, truly so upset. And we see Brad was like, like, you know, four hours ago. Brad's like, so I hear the space time call from Justin, and you're not actually upset. You said something wrong. And Michael's like, so you're not actually sorry because they're talking about Emmy? He's like, yeah, and you're not actually sorry about saying that I made you feel unsafe. And the only reason you're saying it is because you're worried that how I'm going to, like, what I'm going to do to you and how I'm going to ruin your life. And I'm here to vent to you and tell you how I'm feeling because I feel like you would understand 100%. And Brad is upset. He's like, I would think that Lake would understand where I'm coming from, but I don't feel like Lake is condemning anything from Emmy. Said it's just like disheartening.

[Ronnie]

And so Michael's was like, yeah, he was expecting you to be like, hey, you can't say that. And she was like, well, I wish he would have come to me at the moment about the microaggression. And Michael says, well, it's uncomfortable in the moment. And she's like, well, I know it's uncomfortable. I face this every day myself. Like, you face it every day. Like being a person of color in the City, like, I get it. Or in this world even, like, I get it. And she says this is pissing her off, because the whole conversation, you know, like, she's this person that's always defended people of color and always defended her own people, and she's always advocating, and so she's like, I understand him when it comes to that. You know, And I thought co signing, when you guys said something about it, like, co signing, when you called it a microaggression, was.

[Ben]

Was enough.

[Ronnie]

Standing up enough. Yeah, right.

[Ben]

And we see a flashback because basically Michael's in that confrontation, says, look, what you said could come off as a microaggression. And Link goes, yeah, so Lake says, you know, like, she should have said that. Like, she should have said that that situation made me feel uncomfortable and left it at that. Calling him scary is crazy. Michaels is basically saying, yeah, but you didn't say any of this to Emmy, and that's a conversation Brad wants to have with her. And, like, out of respect for Brad, like, don't say anything, but I just wanted to let you know that this is how Brad was feeling.

[Ronnie]

So she's like, yeah, you know, she tells us about her family and her dad, and, you know, how her dad made them read African American heritage books, and she knows her shit. And she's like, and I don't want to be framed as that person who doesn't know my shit, okay? And that conversation makes me feel like I was framed. You know, she starts crying. She's like, oh, my God, what the hell? And he's like, no, no, no, you don't need to get heated. I'm just having a calm conversation with you. I just want you to be more empathetic. And she's like, well, I can be there for. For you in that sense, but also want to be there for Emmy as a friend. And, you know, that's why I was comforting her, because my closeness lies with her. And I don't talk to him every day. I talk to her every day.

[Ben]

Which is where I thought this was really an interesting. I thought it was a really interesting episode, like how, like, the. The pressures that. That are on people in different communities of, like, the. The. The intimate bonds you have with a friend versus, like, the community bonds you have with other members of your community who you actually don't really like. And, like, how do you navigate that? Because it's important to. To deal with all of that.

[Ronnie]

And I.

[Ben]

So I just thought this was, like. I thought this was, like, kind of riveting to watch, like, how she was trying to have to grapple with these things, you know? And, like, what. How. What does she do to different people? So Brad is, you know, she's saying, brad who? He doesn't know who I am. He doesn't know who my family is. He doesn't know, like, how I was raised. I'm a very educated woman. I come from a very prominent black family that has come from the bottom to the top. He doesn't know me, and he also doesn't know how much water I have to drink every single day. Gosh, it's like, a real lot of pressure for me.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. That's interesting, because she's like, that guy. That guy's a boy, and she's my friend, so I don't think she was, you know, like, I don't think she's racist. So that's why I'm standing up for her, you know? But then he's got a point, you know? Yes. But she did say. Yeah, obviously, like, she. Yeah, I think that Lake is saying, like, I don't think she's. At her heart, she's a racist.

[Ben]

So that's why she was being. Lake thought she was standing up or being an ally enough to Brad. But now she realizes that maybe she wasn't being. But then she also feels like she's also resentful of being. Maybe being painted on TV as being someone who wouldn't be. And so it's just. I don't know, I think it's a fascinating thing to. To watch that and, like, it highlights many, many of the complications. And this is. What's cool, is that, like, this has been between this and Summer House over the past two weeks. There's been a lot of interesting discussions around all this stuff, which I think is. I think it's great. I think it's. I think it's great to see these conversations happening and showing the nuance of racial situations and how, like, it's just. It's not always cut and dry. So now, I mean, who would have thought? Southern hospitality and Summer house, of all places, Seriously. But now we go to Republic, and everyone is hot and sweaty. Okay, tonight we have a few bodies missing because Brad is, like, having one of his, like, I don't know, like, body by Brad things up the street. So, like, Maddie, Joe and Justin are over there, and, like, they'll just be coming down and working later tonight. So TJ and Brad will not be working this evening. So. Okay, everyone, let's get dressed up and ready to go. So now it's time to go. And now we go to the Body by Brad event where he's there and he's having Rod is there from Southern Charm and someone in Tommy Bahamas is there From Charleston and 50 other people

[Ronnie]

in Tommy Bahamas and a lot of other people in flip flops and it's at Lamar's. So Brad comes out and gives us speech and he's talking about his personal training company and he wanted to do more and his girlfriend gave him the idea like, hey, why don't you go on tour? So now Body by Brad is going on tour. What, what is that? I guess like exercise classes that you just go sign up for. What? I remember in the 80s, my mom was like an aerobic star and we would go to like the civic center for, for like these huge aerobics. I guess they were conventions and there were these huge audiences and it would be like 50 ladies out there doing an aerobics routine. And everyone in the audience was like, yes, yes. Get those ankles up, girl. And it was the craziest thing I've ever seen. I wonder if it's going to be like that.

[Ben]

I think it will be like Beachbody still sends like their trainers around. They do go to malls or they do like an outdoor activation or something like that. Yeah, it still happens. This happens all the time. So keep an eye out for Body by Brad. Everyone. The show, everyone get excited.

[Ronnie]

Lift it. Clench those buttocks, people.

[Ben]

Yeah, traveling. So, so anyway, just Mia arrives and almost trips, or she does trip and Brad's like, whoa, you thought you ate. You thought you ate. So then Justin's like, wow. So Mia rain checked our date and then ultimately just ended up canceling it altogether. But like, as I put the puzzle pieces together, my mind like went right back to Jordan. It's like, what sort of puzzle was this? Like a two piece puzzle piece.

[Ronnie]

Don't try and place Scrabble against this guy. He'll get you. And so we see a flashback to two days ago where Jordan's like, you can do whatever you want. Just don't hook up with anyone. Okay? Don't hook up with anyone I know. Like, and don't hook up with Mia. That's all I ask.

[Ben]

Doodle do.

[Ronnie]

So I think it might have something to do with Jordan. She literally said her name, sir.

[Ben]

I'm putting the puzzle pieces together, but Mia canceling her date only makes me want her more. So challenge accepted. So Mia's like, yeah, Justin, beautiful young man, but I don't want to be juggled with other girls. Is that so crazy. Okay, All I ask is for someone to respect my cardboard cutout. That's it.

[Ronnie]

So Brad's like, yeah, I heard bits of pieces about this at the girls night. It wasn't good. And TJ's like, well, I texted Grace the next morning, and I said, hey, are you good? And her text back was, I'll deal with the consequences.

[Ben]

Okay, so she knows that she up. Honestly, I have a soft spot for Grace Lily, but she was one of my very first clients. And we see a flashback to season one. I've been working out, and it's like, yeah, I'm sad that she's not here, but whatever's going on in Grace's life, I just want her to take time that she needs to get herself together.

[Ronnie]

So Brad is giving a speech, and Joe's watching him, and he's like, you know, like, I'm almost 30. And, like, Brad's 28, but, like, in a lot of ways, like, I look up to him because he's a hustler. Like, he gets up, he wakes up, like, before noon. It's crazy. I see all these people younger than me, and they're, like, more ahead of me in life. Like, age shouldn't matter, but it matters, you know? Like, I'm turning 30. My bump, it's turning six. Like, I gotta get my together.

[Ben]

How. How I'm going to support you is I'm gonna set up the after party for you, and, like, we're gonna get to work. Okay. That's a cool. Like, yeah, because I want. I want to work so that you guys can celebrate. But, like, I. I was not gonna miss that. Just. Just this. Just so you know. It's like, yeah, it's fine. It's okay. I wasn't gonna miss this, that you're here. So we see that you're here. I wasn't gonna miss this at all, though. Just so you know. It's like, okay, we get it. Get it.

[Ronnie]

So then we go back to Republic, and Emmy's talking to Justin and asking about Brad's event, and he goes, oh, it was good. It was packed. Yeah, well, the capacity is, like, 93 people, so, yeah, I'm sure it was packed. But then later, everyone just ignores her because she's like, obviously, you just made up with him two hours ago, Emmy. Jesus.

[Ben]

So then Lake pulls Brad. He's. She's like, hey, do you want to talk, Brad? He's like, yeah, but I want my bottles first. She's like, okay. She's saying how she didn't sleep last night. And she has been, like, only thinking about this because it's so important. And she doesn't know what she's going to say, but she's going to speak with her heart. So Michael's like, okay, well, yo. So, Brad, I talked to her yesterday and she, like, came over and she just, like, wants to talk to you and, like, clear it out. So it's like, okay, well, we'll see. So they go to the back to have a conversation, and Lake is. Michaels leaves them alone. He's like, okay, you guys don't need any moderation. Fine. Goodbye, good luck, I love you all.

[Ronnie]

Lake is like, I just wanted to pull you for a conversation because, well, I don't think we should even be having to have this conversation. Okay, Brad, just let her. Jesus. It's hard enough for her. My God. And she's like, okay, so I was given an outline of what you and Michaels talked about, and I feel really strongly about that conversation. And he's like, which part? And she said, the microaggressions and how you feel like I should have defended you. And she says, as a black woman, I do understand and I wanted to address it to you because I know how important it is. I face it every day. And I've always defended and protect and loved all the black men in my life. And he's like, but it doesn't feel like it. And then Joe comes in, he's like, oh, oh, hey, guys. And they just look at him like, hello, do you see us having a scene? And he's like, yeah, but guys, it's like, bump it time. Sorry. It's like the time of my shift where, like, comment. I bump it. So. So I'm just gonna fix my.

[Ben]

Bump it.

[Ronnie]

God damn it. He goes to the mirror, he's like, God damn it, you look good. Hey, you look like you could use a car wash. Yeah. Short shorts. Yeah, you better do it. You're gonna do this before you're 31. Got it? That's right. Okay, guys, I'm done. I'm back to work. All right. You look good, too. You look good too, guys. You look at too.

[Ben]

They're like, ah. So LA goes, I am never, ever in a million years ever going to defend a microaggression. Whenever we had that group conversation at the table at Folly, Emmy made that comment. Michael said, that can come off as a micro aggression. I co signed with him. But I was also comforting her. But me comforting her does not discredit your feelings towards that at all because it did not. And I'm sorry that you felt that way. I truly am. From the deepest of pits of my heart, I am. And Lake says, my brothers, my father, my grandfather, my uncles are all men that look like Brad. And so when Emmy says something like, because you're scary, I felt it. It makes me feel some type of way. So I feel Brad on that.

[Ronnie]

And she tells him, I don't think you would hurt Emmy ever. And he goes, I'm not gonna hurt anyone. I'm not gonna hurt any woman. She says, I know. I know. And so then the door opens again, and it's Emmy. And she's like, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. She puts her Both her hands up. She's like, okay, I'm out of here. I'm out of here.

[Ben]

No, no, no, no. She does amazing thing. I feel like it's gonna become a gif of her being like, no, no, no. Just disappearing behind the door. So then she. After she leaves the door, after she leaves, she runs into Ella, who is another server, and she's like, what's going on with Lake? And Ella's like, well, where is she? It's like she's on break. And. And I was like, oh, I know. She's talking to Brad, right? Like, I think it's something about a microaggression that she's, like, defending you, I guess. He tried to say that, like, what you said to him was a microaggression. She goes, what? What I said on her? And she's like, yeah, I like what you said. She's. What did I say about him? Something how you were scared, Emmy.

[Ronnie]

Oh, my God, Emmy. Did you not listen to one thing? So. And this is all being caught by a camera way in the back of the kitchen, like, behind the ice machine. And so I don't even think they know they're being recorded. And she's like, yeah, you said you were scared of him. And she goes, oh, a microaggression? Are you on crack right now?

[Ben]

She's like, that's crazy. I mean, so Brad is like, I mean, don't you. Do you remember that they all confronted you. They circled you. They circled around you and said you had a microaggression. Do you remember that?

[Ronnie]

Why are you hyperventilating? Like, restart your brain. Like, hello. So back to Brad and Lake. She's like. He says, I don't think Amy's racist, but she's coming across and, like, is like, look, I wouldn't be friends with her if I thought she was racist. And he goes, yeah, but, like, even if you completely remove race from it and someone apologizes to you, and then later you hear that they said, I'm only apologizing because I'm worried what they're going to do to me. Like, it's like, okay, that's a stab in the back, you know, and addressing that's very important. And I'm on your side when it comes to this, and that's why I wanted to come to you and apologize. And Brad's like, I appreciate the apology, but this is also coming on the heels. Like, he says when in the example that he just gave, like, remove race from it. And if somebody apologized to you but said they don't want you to ruin their life, as you mentioned earlier, Brad, you did just admit to lying about someone's, like, ruining someone's relationship out of revenge, you know?

[Ben]

Yeah, you did. So Brad is like, this is a side of Lake that I've never seen before. Beyond the bubbly, fun, easygoing personality, there's a lot of depth there. I needed to hear her. I needed to hear her out of her mouth saying, hey, I got you, and I understand you. I'm with you. It means the world to me. I love. This is such a guy thing. It's like, oh, if I actually decided to have a conversation with a girl I was interested at one point, I would discover that she actually has many facets and many nuances.

[Ronnie]

Wow.

[Ben]

Who knew?

[Ronnie]

Well, it's also. She came in and completely agreed with everything I said and was like, one long apology and being. Just being like, okay, okay. So I'm. Yeah, you get it, right? Like, I'm with you, right, Brad? He's like, yeah, she's really deep.

[Ben]

Blake is like, when it comes to Emmy, I will take it upon myself to educate her on this subject. He's like, no, you don't have to talk to her, because it shouldn't be, by the way, up to Lake to have to do this.

[Ronnie]

Yeah.

[Ben]

So they have, like, amicable fist bump. But then outside, Emmy, they were just. God, Emmy's gonna. It's gonna be so bad for Emmy. We just can see. This is a disaster.

[Ronnie]

It's already so bad for me. I mean, me. Jesus.

[Ben]

So Emmy's like, oh, Justin. Justin. Brad is, like, going after Lake in the back. He's like, right now, it's like, yeah, Brad's trying to say I'm a racist. And Justin goes, when you What. What you said to him, she's like, yeah. And Justin goes, no. Well, you. You were scared of how he was going to act, and he took it as a microaggression because. Yeah, because he texted me, lower your voice. You're dead to me too. Like, grown man saying that to me. Justin's like, I feel like Emmy is taking the low road in this situation and being combat about it, and I feel like she's minimizing Brad's experience. And all you need to do to make it right is just tell Brad. Hopefully, like. Like that. Just say it wasn't your intention. But I think the problem is, I think Emmy doesn't know what a microaggression is. Oh, my God.

[Ronnie]

And this is the best part of the episode because they start playing clown music, and so they've got this music, like, playing under Emmy, and she's like, yes. Yeah, I mean, I know what a microaggression is. I mean. Yeah, yeah, of course I do. Okay. Okay. Microaggression. Microaggression is when you. You make a micro. Like, a little. Like a tiny, like, little. It's not little, but it's, like, smaller than little. Okay. Like. And so, like, you make, like, like, like an assumption. Like a subjective assumption that was like three syllable, wrote two words in a row, three syllables. And, like, you know, it's like, based off so many, you know, like, it's like. Like, women. Women are like. Women are bad drivers. Yeah. So, yeah. So basically, yeah, like, microaggressions, they're, like, tiny, subjective, like, things, and they're more like. They're more so made towards people that, like, you don't know. So nailed it.

[Ben]

Remember, like, micro machines, those cars, they're like really small cars. It's like, if you. If you drive them really fast, that's like a microaggression. So. Yeah, I. I wasn't even playing with cars. It was so funny.

[Ronnie]

She has no idea.

[Ben]

And the music's like.

[Ronnie]

It's like microaggression. That's, like, crazy. Like, I can't believe they're saying that. Like, what?

[Ben]

Justin goes. But that's his experience because I don't want to talk about it. I don't. You know, I want to get the out of here. I want to get the out of here.

[Ronnie]

Storms out. She storms out of the restaurant yet again.

[Ben]

Oh, good.

[Ronnie]

Wow.

[Ben]

Bless her heart. Well, everyone. Jesus, what an interesting episode. Thanks, everyone, for being here. We adore you. And we'll catch you on the next episode of Watch what Crappens.

[Ronnie]

Bye.

[Ben]

Bye. Watch what Crappens would like to thank its premium sponsors. Ain't no thing. Like Allison King, our way is the Amber way. It's the Foster and the Furious. It's Amanda Foster. It's always automatic with Ashley Otto. Put your hands together for Carly Clapp.

[Ronnie]

Get on the right foot with Chrissy Offutt. She's not just a Sheila, she's a Daniella. We never miss her call. It's Diane Call. Sunday in the park with Dylan Clark. Big yay. It's Emily Gaultier.

[Ben]

Aaron McNicholas. She don't miss no Tricolus Hava Nagila Weber. You'll never hide from Heidi Eleanor Jones. I go Hugo. We all go for Hugo. Jamie. She has no less Namey sipped some

[Ronnie]

scotch with Jessica Trotch.

[Ben]

She's not a McBee. She's a McBride. Jess McBride. She's our favorite streamer. Caroline Peacock.

[Ronnie]

Kristen the Piston Anderson. Get a bee in your bonnet with Lacey B. Que sera, sera Whatever will be will Lauren Sills be 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.

[Ben]

Aren't you glad? It's Marianne Ahrens.

[Ronnie]

Megan Berg. You can't have a burger without the burger.

[Ben]

This is Living with Michelle. Vivian.

[Ronnie]

I love Aya. Olivia Williamson.

[Ben]

She sure is swell. It's Raquel.

[Ronnie]

Yes, we can. It's Savannah.

[Ben]

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

[Ronnie]

Darn Skippy. It's Tippy. And our Super Premium sponsors She's VVIP

[Ben]

It's Amanda V. Can I have a Kavanaugh? It's Anna Kavanaugh. Somebody get us 10cc's of Betsy MD

[Ronnie]

we're taking the gold with Brenda Silva.

[Ben]

Let's get real with Caitlin o'.

[Ronnie]

Neal. Put us on a stretcher. It's Charlotte Fletcher. Hogle your horses. It's Christine Hogle. Don't get salty with Christine Pepper. Can't have a meal without the Emily sides.

[Ben]

Who, what, why, where? And Gwen Pentland. Nobody holds a candle to Jamie Kendall. We got our wish. It's Jen Plish. My favorite Myrtle Karen McMurdo.

[Ronnie]

She's a total knockout. It's Katie Manock.

[Ben]

Let's get Savage With Laura Wildman in the study with a candlestick. It's Leslie Peacock. We're ride or die for Lisa Ryder Baron. She's a whiz. It's Liz Sarthi. Always killing it. It's Lola Alkalani. Roger that. It's Marla's Rogers.

[Ronnie]

The incredible edible Matthew Sisters. She eases our woes It's Melissa St. Rose. There's a chance of meatballs. It's Rebecca Cloud. She's our princess. It's Rebecca Prince.

[Ben]

Maximum love for Sandy Maximoska. She's the queen bee. It's Sarah Lemke.

[Ronnie]

We cannot tell a lie. It's Sarah tell of son Shannon out

[Ben]

of a can and Anthony, please don't stop. It's solely and pop. Let's take off with Tamla playing Strike a pose.

[Ronnie]

It's Tori Rose. She ain't no shrinking violet Coutar. We love you guys.

[Bill.com Announcer]

Over 90 of the top 100 US accounting firms trust bill to simplify and secure bill pay. That's proven financial infrastructure built on over a trillion dollars of secure payments. Visit bill.com proven for a special offer.

[Kelly Clarkson]

Hey y', all, it's Kelly Clarkson with Wayfair, where delivery and setup are as easy as a few taps on your phone. Picture this, you're relaxing in an old hammock scrolling Wayfair's app when you spot it. A brand new patio set. Next thing you know, Wayfair delivers it right to your patio and sets it up. Oh, you need a new grill too. All right, Wayfair's got you covered. With Wayfair's room of choice delivery and fast expert setup on qualifying orders, life gets a little easier. Visit Wayfair.com or the Wayfair app. Wayfair Every style, every home, shipping, billing, admin, payroll, marketing. You're managing all the things, so why waste time sending important documents the old fashioned fashioned way. Mail and ship when you want, how you want with stamps.com print postage on demand 247 and schedule pickups from your office or home. Save up to 90% with automated rate shopping. That's why over 1 million small businesses trust stamps.com go to stamps.com and use code podcast to try stamps.com risk free for 60 days.