Summary of "We're Here to Help" Episode 132: "You're Outta Line and I'm Outta Time!" with Ben Schwartz

In Episode 132 of "We're Here to Help," hosted by Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds of Headgum, special guest Ben Schwartz joins the conversation to offer his unique blend of humor and insight. Released on November 18, 2024, this episode delves into personal dilemmas faced by listeners, providing both comedic relief and thoughtful advice.

Introduction of Ben Schwartz

The episode kicks off with Jake and Gareth introducing Ben Schwartz, renowned for his roles in "New Girl" and as the voice of Sonic in "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse." Gareth enthusiastically highlights Ben's extensive work in comedy, emphasizing his ability to bring laughter both on stage and in various media appearances.

[01:07] Jake Johnson: "Special guest today, Mr. Ben Schwartz."

[01:16] Gareth Reynolds: "Yes, he is so funny. Always funny. You know him from kind of everything."

Main Call: Adam's Wedding Night Worries

The primary focus of the episode centers around a call from Adam, a 29-year-old from the Boston area. Adam shares a troubling memory from his wedding night that has been bothering him ever since. Despite having a beautiful wedding with an open bar, Adam recounts an awkward incident involving a clump of toilet paper found on his wife as they prepared to enjoy a bottle of champagne in their hotel room's soaker tub.

[02:05] Adam: "So earlier in June of this year, my wife and I got married."

[03:00] Adam: "...the hotel room has a big, like, soaker tub type thing for two people."

[04:17] Ben Schwartz: "I'm so nervous. Are you guys not nervous?"

Discussion and Advice

Ben Schwartz, alongside Jake and Gareth, engages in a candid and humorous discussion about Adam's predicament. They explore various ways Adam can address the lingering discomfort without tarnishing the memory of his special night. The conversation touches on the challenges of communicating sensitive issues within a marriage and the importance of maintaining open dialogue.

[06:43] Gareth Reynolds: "Do you think in reality, in your version with her, she's gonna end the way this version ended?"

[15:00] Ben Schwartz: "First of all, Adam, get a divorce. No. Okay. I would if it was me."

[19:40] Ben Schwartz: "Can I ask you just one of those get it out of your ass kind of things?"

Role-Playing the Conversation

To provide practical advice, the hosts and Ben engage in a role-playing exercise, simulating a conversation between Adam and his wife. This segment is both entertaining and insightful, showcasing different approaches Adam might take to address his concerns without causing undue stress or embarrassment.

[21:10] Gareth Reynolds: "Am I playing this for real or for comedy? Real?"

[29:30] Adam: "Yeah. Just kind of bring it up in a sense of like."

Follow-Up Call: Claire's Mad Men Murder Mystery Party

Towards the end of the episode, a follow-up call from Claire highlights the effectiveness of the advice previously given. Claire recounts her successful execution of a Mad Men-themed murder mystery party for her engagement, noting how the suggestions from the show enhanced the event's enjoyment despite some humorous hiccups.

[60:11] Claire: "We needed to do open investigations to how to find more makers."

[64:11] Jake Johnson: "Thank you, Claire. Thank you so much."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [12:24] Adam: "That's. That's where I'm stuck."

• [24:24] Jake Johnson: "It is kind of funny."

• [29:30] Gareth Reynolds: "She's doing it for a nervous tech."

• [43:09] Jake Johnson: "That's a great question."

• [53:29] Ben Schwartz: "Good performance, Meg. That's a great performance."

Conclusion

Episode 132 of "We're Here to Help" masterfully blends humor with genuine advice, offering listeners both laughs and practical solutions to their personal issues. Ben Schwartz's contribution adds a fresh dynamic to the show, making this episode memorable and engaging for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.

This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, providing notable quotes with timestamps, and maintaining a natural flow to benefit those who haven't listened to the podcast.