Podcast Title: We're Here to Help
Episode: 196: Mannequin For Dennehy & A Party For Adults
Release Date: August 11, 2025
Host/Author: Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds
Description: In this episode of We're Here to Help, Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds tackle two uniquely challenging caller questions. From dealing with an unsolicited, provocative mannequin gift to revitalizing community movie nights to include adult participation, the hosts provide their candid and humorous advice, sometimes enlisting the help of friends to enhance the discussion.
Introduction and Welcome
The episode kicks off with Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds reuniting after a brief hiatus. Their banter sets a lighthearted tone as they discuss recent updates, including new merchandise and social outings with friends.
- Jake Johnson [00:02]: "This is a headgun podcast."
- Gareth Reynolds [00:25]: "And we are back."
- Natalie Hollis [00:28]: "I really feel like what we just did should be part of Patreon..."
The hosts also share personal anecdotes, such as Gareth's upcoming concert plans and Jake's interactions with friends, giving listeners a glimpse into their camaraderie and daily lives.
First Caller: Dealing with an Unwanted Mannequin Gift
Caller: Paige from the western suburbs of Chicago
Timestamp: [20:16] – [28:20]
Paige shares her predicament involving an unexpected and somewhat unsettling gift from her mother-in-law: a large, nude mannequin adorned with a spider web. The gift comes with bizarre suggestions, such as dressing it up for occasions like her first birthday.
- Paige [23:10]: "I have a seven-month-old daughter, and my mother-in-law showed up unexpectedly with this mannequin..."
- Natalie Hollis [24:00]: "It's a very weird thing to see and be like, I know. Who wants this?"
Gareth and Natalie brainstorm creative yet tactful ways for Paige to handle the situation without offending her mother-in-law. Their suggestions range from returning the mannequin to pretending it belongs to a designer friend.
- Gareth Reynolds [28:28]: "Take it back to the Facebook market person or donate it to Goodwill..."
- Natalie Hollis [30:32]: "Dress it up just like Connie. Make it an homage for you and make it look insane..."
The discussion evolves into a humorous role-playing segment where Natalie acts as the mother-in-law receiving the news of the mannequin's "new owner," further illustrating the hosts' playful approach to solving Paige's dilemma.
- Natalie Hollis as Connie [77:30]: "So Will, do us all a favor in this house and let us be..."
This segment not only provides valuable advice but also entertains listeners with its creativity and humor.
Second Caller: Revitalizing Community Movie Nights
Caller: Mark from Kansas City
Timestamp: [41:01] – [62:13]
Mark describes his family's efforts to build community through hosting outdoor movie nights. Initially successful, these events have gradually shifted into "drop-off" parties where parents leave their children without staying to socialize, defeating the purpose of community building.
- Mark [42:19]: "We had no idea if anyone was going to show up. It was a huge success..."
- Gareth Reynolds [43:35]: "This is a big thing with kid parties and that is the no drop off or drop off..."
The hosts delve into strategies to encourage parents to remain engaged during these events. Suggestions include:
- Setting Clear Expectations: Emphasizing that parent attendance is desired to foster genuine social interaction.
- Incorporating Adult-Friendly Elements: Introducing themed cocktails or adult activities alongside the kids' entertainment.
- Gareth Reynolds [60:26]: "Get your GNT while you watch ET... Reese's pieces for the little ones and GTs for the big ones."
Natalie proposes practical ideas, such as creating gift bags for adults or incorporating novelty drink themes to make the events more appealing to grown-ups.
- Natalie Hollis [59:25]: "Create a combo where parents have to attend and offer something fun like themed drinks..."
The conversation highlights the importance of balancing activities to cater to both children and adults, ensuring that community events remain inclusive and enjoyable for all attendees.
Interactive Role-Play and Creative Solutions
To assist Mark, the hosts engage in a collaborative brainstorming session, coming up with innovative ways to make the movie nights more appealing to parents without alienating the younger participants.
- Gareth Reynolds [60:00]: "Let's pick a movie and a drink right now. Does that sound good?"
- Natalie Hollis [60:26]: "G and T for ET. Gin and tonics for adults while the kids enjoy Reese's Pieces..."
This playful yet practical approach demonstrates the hosts' ability to merge creativity with actionable advice, offering listeners both entertainment and useful solutions.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The episode wraps up with reflections on the advice given and encouragement for callers to implement the suggested strategies. Jake and Gareth express enthusiasm for the potential positive outcomes of their advice, reinforcing their commitment to helping listeners navigate their unique challenges.
- Gareth Reynolds [61:47]: "We'll pick you up when the movie's over. Have fun."
- Natalie Hollis [59:36]: "Combo where parents have to attend and offer something fun..."
Listeners are left with actionable takeaways on handling unsolicited gifts and enhancing community gatherings, all delivered with the hosts' signature humor and camaraderie.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Paige [23:10]: "I have a seven-month-old daughter, and my mother-in-law showed up unexpectedly with this mannequin..."
- Gareth Reynolds [28:28]: "Take it back to the Facebook market person or donate it to Goodwill..."
- Natalie Hollis [30:32]: "Dress it up just like Connie. Make it an homage for you and make it look insane..."
- Gareth Reynolds [60:26]: "Get your GNT while you watch ET... Reese's pieces for the little ones and GTs for the big ones."
- Natalie Hollis [59:25]: "Create a combo where parents have to attend and offer something fun like themed drinks..."
Final Thoughts:
We're Here to Help Episode 196 masterfully balances humor with heartfelt advice, addressing callers' unique problems with creativity and empathy. Whether it's navigating tricky family dynamics or fostering community spirit, Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds provide listeners with both laughs and practical solutions, embodying the essence of friendly, neighborhood advisors.