Podcast Summary: "We're Here to Help" Episode 180: "Hotdog Party & Backdoor Boys"
Release Date: June 16, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 180 of "We're Here to Help", hosts Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds tackle two unusual and humorous listener dilemmas. The episode, titled "Hotdog Party & Backdoor Boys", showcases their trademark blend of wit and genuine attempts to assist callers facing perplexing situations.
Conversation on Tattoos (00:02 - 02:58)
The episode begins with Jake and Gareth engaging in a lighthearted discussion about tattoos, particularly Gareth's near-tattoo experience inspired by the book "The Giving Tree". Gareth shares his teenage plans to get a tattoo honoring his mother, Eve, and how societal perceptions of tattoos in the 1990s influenced his decision.
Gareth Reynolds (00:58): "Based off my love of my mother, Eve, and the book she used to read to me, the Giving Tree... I was going to get my initials plus hers."
Jake finds Gareth’s teenage tattoo aspirations endearing, reflecting on how tattoos were viewed differently during that era in Chicago.
Caller 1: JoJo from Texas (12:23 - 40:36)
Caller Details:
- Name: JoJo
- Location: Texas
- Age: 36
JoJo's Dilemma: JoJo recounts a strange situation at her workplace where a friendly coffee lady repeatedly mistakes her for someone else, mentioning a hot dog party that JoJo never hosted. This ongoing confusion has left JoJo seeking advice on how to handle the mix-up and possibly locate her doppelganger.
Notable Exchange:
JoJo (12:34): "At one point, though, she asked me about a hot dog party that I was having for my employees, which is definitely not a thing that I was doing."
Hosts' Advice: Jake and Gareth brainstorm unconventional solutions to help JoJo resolve the confusion, including:
- Creating a Fake Hot Dog Party: To deflect the mistaken identity.
- Launching a Campaign with Signs and Photos: To identify the actual person.
- Conducting a Stakeout in Disguise: To observe and gather more information.
Gareth humorously inquires:
Gareth Reynolds (17:32): "What the hell's a hot dog party?"
Despite the playful banter, the hosts offer practical steps for JoJo, emphasizing creativity and proactive measures.
Caller 2: Producer Sherlock (Nick) from Utah (42:30 - 78:57)
Caller Details:
- Name: Nick (also referred to as Producer Sherlock)
- Location: Utah
- Age: Approximately 30
Nick's Concern: Nick is troubled by his father's persistent activity on Instagram, specifically following and commenting on a page titled "Women's Butts". This behavior has become more pronounced, leading Nick to seek advice on addressing his father’s online actions.
Notable Exchange:
Nick (46:03): "People could see what you like and what you comment on on Instagram... it's mainly for him to kind of, like, be a little bit of a horn dog."
Hosts' Humorous Guidance: Jake and Gareth address the issue with their characteristic humor:
- Gareth (50:00): "Have you ever used the bidet?"
- Jake (56:40): "Brazilian Wax."
Ultimately, they recommend a Brazilian wax as a lighthearted yet effective solution to reduce sweating, which might be contributing to the unwanted stains Nick experiences during gym sessions.
Follow-Up Call: In a later segment, Nick (referred to as Opal) provides an update on his father's continuing online behavior. Despite Nick’s efforts to communicate with his father, the situation remains unchanged.
Nick (72:05): "I... I'm afraid of what I might... stones I might have been turned."
The hosts discuss potential strategies, such as subtly engaging with his father's social media activity to influence his behavior, but acknowledge the complexity of the situation.
Conclusion
Episode 180 of "We're Here to Help" masterfully balances humor with genuine problem-solving. Through JoJo’s bewildering workplace mix-up and Nick’s discomfort with his father's online antics, Jake and Gareth demonstrate their ability to entertain while attempting to offer practical advice. The episode underscores the hosts' commitment to supporting listeners, even when faced with the most unconventional challenges.
Notable Quotes:
- Gareth Reynolds (00:58): "Based off my love of my mother, Eve..."
- JoJo (12:34): "At one point, though, she asked me about a hot dog party that I was having for my employees..."
- Nick (46:03): "People could see what you like and what you comment on on Instagram..."
- Jake Johnson (56:40): "Brazilian Wax."
This comprehensive summary outlines the key discussions and humorous interactions between the hosts and callers, providing a clear overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.