Podcast Title: We're Here to Help
Host/Authors: Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds
Episode: 172: Babe on Men & Do It For Thailand
Release Date: May 19, 2025
Overview
In Episode 172 of We're Here to Help, hosts Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds tackle two distinct listener problems with their characteristic blend of humor and earnestness. The episode delves into managing interpersonal dynamics at work and overcoming personal anxiety related to driving. Additionally, the hosts engage in a playful interaction with a returning caller, enhancing the episode's lively atmosphere.
Caller 1: Desiree's Hot Tub Conundrum
Timestamp: [02:39]
Issue:
Desiree contacts the hosts seeking advice on how to address her neighbors' habit of using their hot tub in the nude, which is visible from her office windows. Despite initial steps to mitigate the situation, including leaving a friendly note and a bottle of wine, the neighbors resumed their behavior after a brief period.
Initial Advice:
Jake and Gareth recommended a subtle approach:
- Jake (03:50): Suggested sending a clip of a heartfelt father-daughter dance over a song as a personal touch.
- Gareth (09:00): Encouraged leaving friendly notes and small gestures to communicate discomfort without confrontation.
Outcome and Follow-Up:
Despite their efforts, Desiree reports that the neighbors continued their nude tubbing despite their friendly outreach. The hosts express a mixture of amusement and sympathy, acknowledging the challenges of influencing others' behaviors.
Notable Quote:
Jake Johnson (03:46): "It wasn't a dry eye in the house."
Guest Appearance: David Walton Joins the Conversation
Timestamp: [58:12]
Introduction of David Walton:
David Walton, known for his role in New Girl, makes a surprise appearance to assist with Desiree's ongoing issue. His involvement adds a dynamic twist, as he offers practical solutions and collaborates with the hosts to craft a more effective strategy.
Collaborative Strategy:
Jake and Gareth coordinate with David to enhance their approach:
- David Walton (66:33): Offers to supply robes to the neighbors, emphasizing a humorous yet respectful intervention.
- Jake Johnson (73:09): Proposes sending robes along with a revised note to further diffuse the situation amicably.
Notable Quote:
Gareth Reynolds (22:55): "You're the boss calling employees."
Caller 2: Sarah's Daughter Cora and Driving Anxiety
Timestamp: [31:01]
Issue:
Sarah reaches out for help concerning her 17-year-old daughter, Cora, who has significant anxiety about driving. Despite having a learner's permit for over a year, Cora has only driven once and becomes overwhelmed with fear when she does.
Hosts' Advice and Pitches:
Jake and Gareth brainstorm creative ways to motivate Cora to practice driving:
- Gareth (15:12): "You gotta go worse than babe to make babe seem appealing."
- Jake (18:05): Suggests using unique, non-flirtatious nicknames inspired by video game characters (e.g., "Glass Joe," "King Hippo") to lighten the mood.
- Jake (40:42): Encourages Cora to find personal incentives, such as making her mother wear a clown wig during practice sessions to make driving more enjoyable.
Interactive Solution:
The hosts engage directly with Cora by bringing her onto the call, creating a semi-scripted motivational session:
- Jake (43:10): "Do you want to eat while you're driving? Maybe you're right. Do what my buddy does. Just takes everything off."
- Gareth (47:03): Suggests gamifying the practice with Cora rating her driving attempts out of 10, fostering a sense of achievement.
Follow-Up:
Sarah later provides an update, noting significant improvements in Cora's anxiety levels and driving frequency. The hosts commend her progress and maintain their supportive stance.
Notable Quote:
Jake Johnson (40:42): "Don't start thinking you got to do a two hour drive. It's not Fast and the Furious."
Conclusion and Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with the hosts reflecting on the effectiveness of their advice and the importance of supportive interventions. They reiterate their commitment to helping listeners navigate their personal challenges with creativity and empathy.
Notable Quote:
Gareth Reynolds (76:24): "This is awesome."
Key Takeaways
- Creative Problem-Solving: Jake and Gareth employ unconventional methods to address listener issues, blending humor with practical advice.
- Empathy and Support: The hosts demonstrate genuine concern for their callers, fostering a trusting and engaging environment.
- Community Engagement: By involving guests like David Walton and directly interacting with callers, the episode emphasizes the value of collaborative solutions.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Jake Johnson (03:46): "It wasn't a dry eye in the house."
- Jake Johnson (18:05): "Are you going to go today? I think take away the word."
- Jake Johnson (40:42): "Don't start thinking you got to do a two hour drive. It's not Fast and the Furious."
- Gareth Reynolds (76:24): "This is awesome."
- Jake Johnson (03:50): "It was the one that dropped today, you could take the clip of Campbell talking about why her dad is so great..."
- Gareth Reynolds (22:55): "You're the boss calling employees."
Final Thoughts
Episode 172 of We're Here to Help exemplifies the hosts' unique ability to navigate diverse issues with humor, creativity, and genuine care. Whether addressing boundary-setting with neighbors or overcoming personal anxiety, Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds provide listeners with relatable and actionable advice, all while maintaining an entertaining and engaging podcast atmosphere.