Podcast Summary: "We're Here to Help" Episode 154: Butt Glove & Pocket Tuna

Release Date: March 17, 2025

In Episode 154 of "We're Here to Help," hosted by Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds of Headgum, listeners are treated to a series of unique and humorous advice segments addressing intriguing personal dilemmas. This episode, titled "Butt Glove & Pocket Tuna," delves into quirky situations ranging from unconventional skincare mishaps to feline fidelity issues, all delivered with the hosts' trademark wit and camaraderie.

1. Introduction and Host Banter ([02:28] - [05:03])

The episode kicks off after the initial advertisements, with Jake and Gareth discussing their upcoming plans for the podcast. They contemplate the balance between solo episodes and those featuring guests or experts, highlighting their desire to maintain the show's fun and spontaneous nature while occasionally bringing in outside perspectives.

Notable Quote:

• Jake Johnson ([03:24]): "The show is going to keep evolving and changing. I don't know what's going to happen. The Garfman doesn't know what's going to happen."

2. Listener Call: Katie's "Butt Glove" Conundrum ([15:02] - [35:08])

Problem Overview: Katie, a listener from Los Angeles, calls in with an unusual predicament: her girlfriend, Becca, has been using Katie's exfoliating glove—dubbed the "butt glove"—to wash her face. This mix-up has gone unnoticed for over a year, leading to awkwardness and unsanctioned skincare practices.

Key Discussion Points:

• Jake and Gareth empathize with Katie's discomfort and guide her through addressing the issue without confrontation.
• They suggest practical solutions such as separating exfoliating gloves by color and communicating the importance of personal skincare tools.
• The hosts role-play the conversation Katie might have with Becca, providing a mock scenario to illustrate effective communication.

Notable Quotes:

• Katie ([19:18]): "I cannot get myself to tell her. She has been washing her face with my butt glove for a year."
• Gareth Reynolds ([20:26]): "We're here to help. Go to Target, go to CVS. Grab two new ones."
• Jake Johnson ([25:31]): "Listen to it on a podcast. What's the podcast? Your skin and you."

Advice Given:

• Katie is encouraged to discreetly introduce the idea of separate exfoliating gloves to avoid embarrassment.
• Jake and Gareth stress the importance of approaching the topic gently, emphasizing personal hygiene without making Becca feel accused or embarrassed.

3. Listener Call: Abby's Wandering Cat, Lewis ([38:59] - [58:57])

Problem Overview: Abby from Dayton, Ohio, shares her distress over her cat, Lewis, who has increasingly wandered away and now prefers the company of neighbors, leading to concerns about his loyalty and Abby's feelings of neglect.

Key Discussion Points:

• The hosts explore the emotional bond between Abby and Lewis, acknowledging the deep affection pets hold in their owners' lives.
• They discuss strategies for reconnecting with Lewis, such as creating welcoming environments and using familiar voices or treats to entice him back.
• Jake and Gareth humorously navigate the complexities of pet behavior, mixing sincere advice with comedic elements.

Notable Quotes:

• Abby ([43:11]): "I feel like my head always goes the hot rod."
• Gareth Reynolds ([49:33]): "You're dealing with some pain. You're dealing with this on your own."
• Jake Johnson ([51:55]): "I view it more like a kid. So you didn't really break up. The kid just felt like you started a whole new family."

Advice Given:

• The hosts suggest practical steps such as ensuring Lewis has a comfortable and inviting space to return to.
• They recommend reinforcing the bond through positive interactions and possibly consulting with a veterinarian to rule out any behavioral issues.
• Emphasis is placed on patience and understanding Lewis's newfound preferences while maintaining hope for his return.

4. Listener Call: Kirby's Camping Catastrophe ([59:38] - [72:10])

Problem Overview: Kirby recounts her attempt to surprise her husband by "ditching" him in the woods for his birthday, inspired by their favorite survival TV shows. The plan backfires amid a tropical storm, leading to a chaotic overnight and strained marital dynamics.

Key Discussion Points:

• Jake and Gareth dissect the feasibility of Kirby's plan, highlighting the unrealistic expectations set by reality TV.
• They humorously explore the outcomes of the failed camping trip, discussing the importance of understanding partners' preferences and consent in surprise scenarios.
• The hosts reflect on their own experiences and past advice, acknowledging instances where their guidance may not have yielded the desired results.

Notable Quotes:

• Kirby ([61:07]): "He came home in the worst mood ever, just not wanting to participate."
• Jake Johnson ([66:50]): "What were you bullied at him? Why would he need a survivor episode in his life?"
• Gareth Reynolds ([69:30]): "I want to say two things. I want to say one, just since we're, you know, going at each other."

Advice Given:

• The hosts advise Kirby to focus on open communication and mutual planning rather than unilateral surprises.
• They emphasize the importance of aligning expectations and ensuring that both partners are comfortable with any planned activities.
• Jake and Gareth humorously suggest alternative surprise ideas that are more considerate and less likely to cause distress.

5. Hosts' Reflections and Final Thoughts ([72:10] - [72:10])

As the episode concludes, Jake and Gareth reflect on the varied nature of the advice given and the importance of tailoring solutions to individual circumstances. They acknowledge the challenges inherent in providing advice for unconventional problems but reaffirm their commitment to assisting listeners in the most helpful and entertaining way possible.

Notable Quote:

• Jake Johnson ([68:22]): "This show is about you have a problem calling me try to help you. You guys go camping and have dinner and have a lot of fun."

Conclusion

Episode 154 of "We're Here to Help" masterfully blends humor with genuine advice, addressing listeners' unique and often bizarre dilemmas. Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds demonstrate their ability to navigate awkward situations with empathy and comedic flair, making complex interpersonal issues both relatable and entertaining. Whether it's resolving skincare tool mix-ups or dealing with wandering pets and misguided surprises, the hosts provide thoughtful guidance wrapped in their signature humor, ensuring listeners feel both understood and amused.

Key Takeaways:

• Effective communication is crucial in addressing personal dilemmas without causing additional friction.
• Understanding and empathy can bridge gaps in relationships, even when dealing with unconventional issues.
• Maintaining a balance between humor and sincerity enhances the advisory process, making solutions more palatable and memorable.

For those who haven't listened to the episode, "We're Here to Help" offers a delightful mix of relatable advice and laughter, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking both solutions and entertainment.