Love Is Blind’s Amy and Johnny: The Love Keeps Growing

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Love Is Blind’s Amy and Johnny: The Love Keeps Growing"

Release Date: June 18, 2025
Host: And Love Media
Podcast: What's the Reality?

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Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of "What's the Reality?", host AD welcomes Amy and Johnny— the only couple to successfully navigate and survive her season of "Love Is Blind." The conversation delves deep into their journey from televised romance to real-life marriage, exploring the challenges and growth they've experienced along the way.

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Transition from TV to Real Life Marriage (01:09 - 03:10)

Amy and Johnny discuss the whirlwind experience of transitioning from being on a reality TV show to married life under the public eye. Initially, they enjoyed a private bubble post-marriage, engaging in everyday activities like grocery shopping and date nights. However, once the show aired, they felt scrutinized by the public, leading them to consciously manage their behavior ("...we have to walk on our P's and Q's" - Johnny at 02:15).

Over time, they grew more comfortable being themselves despite the ongoing public attention, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in their relationship.

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Traveling Together: Strengthening Their Bond (03:24 - 08:03)

Travel has been a significant part of Amy and Johnny's relationship, providing both opportunities for bonding and moments of stress. They recount their adventures to countries like Spain, Portugal, Japan, Costa Rica, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. Through these trips, they've learned valuable lessons about each other, such as patience and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations ("If you aren't comfortable with someone, travel with them… you will get comfortable very fast" - Amy at 04:15).

Their shared experiences have reinforced their teamwork and highlighted the importance of flexibility and open-mindedness while traveling.

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Blending Families and Building Traditions (10:26 - 12:49)

Amy and Johnny share insights into blending their families, which are spread across various states. They’ve established annual traditions like the McIntyre Olympics and McIntyre Jeopardy, fostering strong family bonds despite geographic distances. These gatherings allow them to celebrate milestones together and stay connected with extended family members.

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Reflections on Marriage and Growth (13:09 - 17:55)

The couple reflects on how their perspectives on marriage have evolved since tying the knot. Johnny highlights the importance of continuous effort and communication, moving beyond the initial romantic notions to embrace the practical aspects of a lasting partnership ("There's so much work that has to be put into a marriage" - Johnny at 14:18).

Amy echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the ease that comes with finding the right person and the deep connection that simplifies navigating life's challenges together.

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Experience on "Love Is Blind" and Advice for Future Couples (20:11 - 26:25)

Amy and Johnny offer valuable advice for future participants of "Love Is Blind." Johnny stresses the importance of not forcing connections and letting relationships develop naturally, while Amy encourages trusting one's intuition when making critical decisions ("Trust your intuition… don't be afraid to make that choice" - Amy at 20:48).

They also discuss their initial fears during the show, such as the pressure to commit quickly, and how overcoming these fears strengthened their relationship.

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Interactive Game Segment: Pod or Fraud (34:18 - 39:40)

The episode features a playful segment where Amy and Johnny participate in a game called "Pod or Fraud," testing their knowledge of quotes either from their time on the pods or from other sources like movies. This light-hearted interaction showcases their chemistry and shared memories from the show, adding a fun and engaging element to the episode.

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Key Takeaways and Final Reflections (39:40 - 43:00)

Towards the end of the episode, Amy and Johnny reflect on their most significant learnings from their journey. Johnny appreciates the deep communication foundation established in the pods, which continues to benefit their marriage. Amy emphasizes the importance of kindness, acknowledging that everyone has their struggles and that empathy fosters stronger relationships.

They conclude by expressing gratitude for their experience on the show and the lasting bond they've built, highlighting their commitment to navigating life's challenges together with love and understanding.

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Conclusion

Amy and Johnny's episode on "What's the Reality?" offers an intimate glimpse into the realities of maintaining a strong marriage post-reality TV fame. Their candid discussions about communication, adaptability, and family integration provide listeners with valuable insights into building and sustaining meaningful relationships. Through humor, vulnerability, and heartfelt stories, they exemplify how love can thrive beyond the confines of television.

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Note: All timestamps correspond to the provided transcript for reference.

Transcript

[Host]

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[Johnny]

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[Host]

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[Johnny]

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[Amy]

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[Johnny]

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[Amy]

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[Guest]

Destination Summer is wherever you take it.

[Amy]

And whatever you want it to be.

[Guest]

So tell us, where's your true taking?

[Johnny]

You own your true with Destination summer@True Religion.com. what's the reality? What's the reality?

[Host]

Hey, y' all. And welcome back to what's the Reality? Today I have two very, very special guests and friends from my season. The actually only couple to survive my season, Amy and Johnny. Hey, y' all.

[Johnny]

Yes.

[Guest]

How's it going?

[Host]

Welcome to what's Reality.

[Johnny]

Thanks for having me.

[Host]

Oh, my God. Catch me up. What has the transition from getting married on TV to actually being married in real life, how. What has that been like for y' all?

[Johnny]

It's been a whirlwind. I feel like, especially with, like, the public eye, you know what I mean?

[Guest]

I feel like when we first started off and like, we got married after filming, it was cool because we just got to, like, live in this little bubble of just we're together, we do things, we go run errands, grocery shopping, go on, like, little date nights. That's it. And we're just like, very much by ourselves. Then when the show dropped, it was very much like everyone knows who we are. So it's like we feel like we kind of have to walk on our P's and Q's and just make sure that we're these people because everyone's staring at us and looking at us through this microscope. But then after a couple, I don't know, weeks or months of it, we're just like, no, we're just like anybody else. We can do whatever we want to. And I feel like after that, it's been a lot more casual.

[Host]

Yeah. Cause I remember we would go out before everything aired and then you guys wouldn't have your rings on.

[Johnny]

Oh, my gosh. I was spiraling. I mean, I get why we had to do what we had to do, but at the same time, that was hard.

[Guest]

Oh, my gosh.

[Johnny]

Yeah. That was a very. Like, that whole time was awkward. And then, like, hearing, like, the commentary from people without, like, knowing the full story behind everything, I was just like, oh, my God. And then, like, the weeks felt like a year. It was eternal.

[Guest]

I feel like, yeah, kind of going back to that. People not knowing the full story. I still remember I wore my ring to, like, in the office to work, and everyone was like, oh, my God, you got married. I was like, yeah, I got married. Oh, wife's great. She's doing good. Then all of a sudden, production was like, hey, you can't be seen. And all of a sudden, I stopped taking off. And everyone's like, hey, Johnny, you know it's gonna be okay. Like, hey, how you doing? Do you want to get lunch? I'm over here. Just like, no, I'm good. I'm just chilling.

[Host]

You know, happily married, just can't talk about it.

[Guest]

Oh, yeah.

[Host]

Exactly.

[Johnny]

Yeah.

[Host]

So I'm kind of upset because I haven't seen you guys. We live in the same city. Haven't seen you guys because you've been traveling. Not my fault. I text Amy and we could go for dinner. So we'll get back to that.

[Johnny]

I feel like we've just been adventuring around the world. Really? No. Literally, no.

[Host]

So, okay, we have Spain, Portugal, Japan, Costa Rica. What am I missing?

[Guest]

I think that was from this year.

[Johnny]

Those were, like, the.

[Host]

That was just this year alone.

[Guest]

That was from this year.

[Host]

What was that YouTube you dropped?

[Johnny]

Oh, that was Finland, Norway, and then Sweden. We did the Nordics. That was, like, our first international solos trip.

[Guest]

Oh, my gosh. That was so much fun.

[Host]

It looked lit. It looked so fun. Like, it looked like a place I would never go to, that part. But then I watched your YouTube and I was like, I'll still never go, but I'm glad that I could see it.

[Johnny]

Listen, if you ever end up going, just let us know. We got the ride.

[Host]

Yeah. No, it looked so fun. So I know that traveling can be pretty stressful. We all know. Is there something that you guys have learned about each other while traveling?

[Johnny]

You. I feel like.

[Guest]

I know. I was gonna say. I do have to say that if you aren't comfortable with someone, travel with them. You will get comfortable very fast. Because especially being inside, like, a tiny, tiny, tiny hotel room, you learn the balance of.

[Johnny]

We get tested. Yeah.

[Guest]

Every day.

[Johnny]

But, you know, it's funny. Cause we just, like, bicker like an old comfort. Like, it's, like, nothing, like, terrible. Like, I feel like we haven't had, like, a terrible experience, but it can be stressful.

[Host]

Yeah.

[Guest]

Oh, My gosh.

[Host]

Yeah.

[Johnny]

Ollie.

[Host]

And I learned pretty early. Like, even when we were on the show and, like, kind of traveling around, like, traveling can make or break, like, 100%. If you don't like the person that you're traveling with. It's gonn nightmare. And we learned pretty early. Like, we would have to go from, like, scene to scene or whatever. And I'd be like, actually, I can do this with him.

[Johnny]

Yeah.

[Host]

And I just got back from London. We traveled together. And I was like, I'm such a brat. On the airplane. He's like six, four, six, whatever. And he's in the middle seat. And then I like, curl literally into, like, fetal position. Cause I'm on the window, obviously. And I lay across his lap. And he just sits there like this the whole time.

[Johnny]

And I'm like, listen, part of me.

[Guest]

Ollie, I feel you. I feel you.

[Host]

Is that you, too?

[Johnny]

Oh, always. Oh, my gosh.

[Guest]

We were on the plane going to. I think it was the Nordic trip, or it was either Japan. And we got so lucky. We booked the cheapo tickets. We had, like a full, like, four row in the middle to our side.

[Johnny]

And you gotta do the alternate so that you can, like, get that whole row for yourself. Cause a lot of people don't get the solo doses.

[Guest]

But this girl goes. And I'm on, like, the one, like, edge seat. She takes up all little armrests. She's laying down like a couch, period. Like a bed period. Head on my lap.

[Host]

Just sleep passenger princess anywhere we go.

[Johnny]

Exactly.

[Host]

So if you had to say one thing that you maybe learned from each other, like, what would it be from traveling?

[Johnny]

I mean, I always knew that he was patient. Yeah, but he's really patient because I'm really extra when it comes to traveling. I'm like, I'm gonna do this, this. And granted, he has, like, a lot of things that, like, he wants to do. And we accommodate our itineraries to, like, fit both of our interests. But, like, yeah, I would say that.

[Guest]

I'd say two things. First, pack light. Because we're going to get a lot of souvenirs. Well, did not expect that. But two is just be accommodating. Maybe have, like, a certain, like, thing you want to do during the day. And the rest is just kind of like, leave open and just kind of like go with the flow. Like, whatever happens, happens and be okay. Just like getting lost and exploring.

[Johnny]

Yeah, I think that's the thing. It's like, nothing's ever going to go, like, perfectly according to plan. Like, I'VE learned that like, for some things I'm not type A, but for traveling I'm very type A and I'm like, we gotta do this. Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom. But like when we actually travel, like, some things have just. We've decided not to do it last minute and we just kind of go with the flow.

[Host]

I love that.

[Guest]

And those most memorable experiences too.

[Johnny]

Yeah.

[Guest]

Is like the most random, spontaneous ones, like, oh yeah, let's do this, or like, let's do that. I still remember, like one of the like first things we did when we were in Paris with your family was we just like randomly were like, let's go to the top of Eiffel Tower. It's going to close in like 20 minutes. But like, why not do it?

[Johnny]

I was like, are you serious? Are we really doing.

[Host]

Did you guys bond over travel in the pods?

[Johnny]

Kind of in different senses though, I feel like.

[Guest]

So I really. Before actually before me and Amy, I really never traveled. I took one solo trip to Utah.

[Host]

So she changed your life essentially.

[Guest]

Yeah. For many, many ways. Oh, but I never really traveled before. And then the first time actually even the country was with you and with you and with kind of the rest of our cast in the Jamaica Republic.

[Host]

Oh yeah. And now you've been to how many countries?

[Johnny]

11 to go.

[Guest]

11.

[Johnny]

Oh yeah, that's great.

[Guest]

11 down. Rest of the world to go.

[Host]

Every time. Wait, okay, so do you guys have anything like new or exciting? Any projects that you're working on coming out?

[Johnny]

I would say, I guess still in that kind of realm. The YouTube channel, really? I feel like, you know, documenting our adventures, especially like for our future kids, like our intros like hey, Future Kids and McIntyre Fam. It's just like, you know, kind of savoring those memories.

[Host]

Yeah. What is your YouTube called again?

[Johnny]

The McIntyre Fam.

[Host]

So after two years together, what's one thing that has surprised you guys about each other?

[Johnny]

It's a good question. I feel like there's so many things.

[Host]

How's your Spanish, Johnny?

[Johnny]

Oh, that is a good point because his pronounced like, like how. The way that he pronounces things.

[Host]

You're a bunny.

[Johnny]

Yeah, for a lot of times. A lot of times. Forget Rosetta Stone. We're gonna use that.

[Host]

Funny.

[Johnny]

To learn Spanish.

[Guest]

No, for real. But no, there's been, it's always been tough learning Spanish, but I feel like with Amy and especially even going over to like her parents house, they all speak Spanish. So like whenever I go there, we sit down for dinner. Yes, they do speak like her dad speaks English to me, but her mom tries to speak Spanish as much as possible to me. And then her grandma, like everyone else, tries to speak Spanish to me, too, just to, like, start understanding it. And I feel like when we've traveled to, like, other places, it's like, okay, I might not have gotten it when we went to Mexico for my buddy's wedding, but we went to Costa Rica this past year. I was actually, like, understanding a little bit of things. I couldn't maybe say as much as I wanted to, but it is getting, like, a little better, which is really nice.

[Host]

Period.

[Johnny]

So fat. I mean. Yeah, I feel like that's something that has really impressed me because he picks up on it really fast and then he pronounces it really well. Yeah. So I've been very impressed to say. I mean, I feel like everybody has been very impressed, too.

[Host]

So do you have a full sentence yet?

[Guest]

I think. I think the one that I. The one that I know, the one that I feel like I say the most, especially when we're traveling, is TNS Espresso. Because I need espresso.

[Host]

I know that one. Yeah, I know that one.

[Guest]

That's kind of like my favorite one when we're out drinking DNA Tequila. But he love it's easy, it's simple. It's just a good starter one.

[Host]

Yeah, I love that. So I know y' all are both, like, really close with your families. How's it been blending your families together?

[Johnny]

Really good. I feel like it's been very seamless. I mean, granted, our families live in kind of all parts of the East Coast, I feel like. And so in terms of, like, distance, like, I feel like our families do really good in communicating with each other and, like, keeping in touch. But since my family lives in Charlotte, we're kind of always hanging out. His family is mainly located in Texas. Jersey. No, Maine.

[Guest]

And then Jersey, Texas, Jersey, Maine. I feel like those are kind of the three main places because I have my sister, brother in law and little brother in Texas, little sister, mom and dad in Maine, and then my cousins in New Jersey.

[Host]

Wait, so tell me about the. I don't know if I'm going to say it right. I don't even know if this is the title of it. But, like, your family, like Olympics or something?

[Guest]

Oh, yeah.

[Host]

I've been seeing that. I think you did what, two years in a row now that you were involved? Tell me about that.

[Guest]

So because we're really spread apart, we don't get a chance to actually get together too often. So Every time we do, we try to really go all out for it. So we try to set aside 4th of July and then Thanksgiving each year to just like everyone kind of drop what you're doing, let's meet somewhere and just have like a big get together. Aside from that, we do like maybe like one offs throughout the year, but for the past probably two, maybe three years or so, we've been to the McIntyre Olympics and it's just a big, just like everyone get together, everyone play the most like random games and just have a great time and just. Oh my gosh, it's so much fun.

[Johnny]

It's like a field day.

[Host]

I'm like, watching the stories. I'm like, who's going to win?

[Guest]

Oh my gosh, it is a blast.

[Johnny]

It is so much fun. Yeah, I know his, his family does a really good job at planning it. So it's a blast.

[Guest]

And then also do shout my sister too, because she also started. So during the summertime we do the McIntyre Olympics, but then during Thanksgiving we do McIntyre Jeopardy.

[Host]

Okay.

[Guest]

Which is. Or no McIntyre bingo. I should say it's a, it's either one or the other. But it's basically just like little like random facts and it can be like, which person was again, just easy like got married, a reality show like us. And then it could be also like which cousin was the like number one ranked insurance broker like at his organization. And it's like, it's cool things that like, you would have no idea. Oh yeah, but it's like cool things where like you have to see into like everyone else's life because we're all so far apart. So I don't really get to like, share those big wins.

[Host]

Yeah, I love that. I love like how invested and like intertwined you are in his family. Yeah, I can see it like all over your Instagram, like you're always with them and vice versa. Like I can always see you guys like, I think it's just so beautiful.

[Johnny]

I know. We're, we're very grateful for like, how the like the family dynamic seamlessly like blended. So we're, we're very happy about that.

[Host]

Do you think you guys have like, your perspective has changed on marriage since saying I do.

[Amy]

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[Guest]

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[Johnny]

I mean, for me, at least, I feel like I thought of, like, I thought marriage to be like, you know, like, you think of, like, a fairy. You know, you don't think about, like, the debt, but steps that it takes to, like, really consistently, like, work on that marriage and, like, devote time to it. And we were actually at dinner yesterday and we were talking about, like, how people always say, like, what's the key to a, like, healthy marriage? And people always say communication. I've said it myself. And yes, while that's true, I feel like it when people say that they talk about, like, like, vulnerable conversations, like, deep conversations like we had in the pods. But while that is also important, I think just, like, yapping all the damn time about, like, even the dumbest things. Like, it's so, so important, literally. Yeah. But other than that, it's just like there's so much work that I feel like has to be put into a marriage, a lot of teamwork. And I feel like it's so cliche to say, but I don't know, it's just like a different. I don't even know how to explain it. I just feel like it's definitely a different vibe.

[Guest]

Yeah. And I don't know, because I feel like growing up, I saw marriage, like, one way, and I was like, oh, like, you know, it's very healthy. It's very good. But it seems like it's a lot. And then, like, to kind of what you said, Amy, like, there's a lot that goes into it, but I feel like when you found your person, it's. It's very easy.

[Johnny]

Yeah.

[Guest]

Because just it's simple. It's like, okay, like, we are, like, connected so well. So it's like if I say something, like, she can pick up on it, like, right away. If I don't even say Something. I just kind of look at her. Like, she could pick up on it right away.

[Johnny]

Same as, like, her with me now. I can feel like I know what he's thinking.

[Host]

It's weird.

[Johnny]

I don't know how to describe it.

[Guest]

Yeah. But I feel like there's a lot of, like, intention that goes into it, but there's not a lot of, like. And I don't want to say hard work, because I feel like there is work goes into it. But, like, it's. It's just simpler. Like, it flows better.

[Johnny]

Oh, 1,000%. Yeah. I. I love being married. Like, I.

[Host]

You loved being married since the day you got married. I've never heard you say anything negative about being married. I love this man.

[Johnny]

You know, I. There were. I feel like, for me in society, the way that marriage is painted can seem scary. And that's kind of how I viewed it, too. And I was so. I mean, I still am independent, but I love depending on my man. But I feel like before marriage, I was just, like. I didn't know, like, how that dynamic would be the day that I got married. And I mean, so much so that I feel like even when we were filming the show, I was just like, I don't know if this is for me. I mean, honestly, it was because of you. Like, you had a big.

[Host]

I was about to go in there and say, let's be friends. I was like, don't bless my blessing.

[Guest]

I need to say thank you very much for that.

[Johnny]

You were also the same. But we were just like, should we. Should we not?

[Guest]

Oh, my gosh.

[Johnny]

I think we were just scared. You know what I mean? Like, I feel like there were a.

[Guest]

Lot of times we were about to leave.

[Johnny]

Yeah.

[Guest]

Like, there were definitely a lot of times we were just like, maybe let's just. Let's just date. Let's see how it goes. Like, we're in love right now. Like, we're very happy with where we're at right now. Just, you know, dating. Not even being engaged, but just dating. So we can just pull out.

[Johnny]

Yeah. I think it's just that fear, you.

[Host]

Know, that just gave me chills because I just, like, butterfly effect. If you would have went in there and was like, actually, let's just date outside. Like, let's leave and just figure it out. Where would you be right now?

[Guest]

Oh, my gosh.

[Johnny]

I don't know. Honestly, who knows?

[Guest]

I do feel like one of the biggest things we did, though, when we got married is we stopped thinking about each other as, like, individual. I don't know that might sound like kind of weird, but we stop thinking of each other's like our individual, like, needs and like, wants, things like that. And we really started thinking about each other as more of like a unit, just like a couple.

[Host]

Yeah.

[Guest]

And it's like, hey, like, how can I do basically everything to make sure that Amy's happy? Amy feels supported. Everything else like that. I know she did the exact same to me too, to make sure that I was like, my needs were met. I felt supported and we felt like we were on the exact same, like, team.

[Host]

I think that started really early for you guys as well, when you were talking to me a lot about like, work and the anxiety that you were feeling with work and the way that you stepped in and was just like, I got like, what? We were in month. You guys were in month one of marriage, literally, and you're like, I can't work. I was so the way you, like, stepped up for her and like alleviated that and was like, babe, okay, don't.

[Johnny]

Yeah, yeah, no, he was on top of it.

[Guest]

For everyone who doesn't know. So we basically went to the pods. We had, I think it was about three weeks of no phone, no communication to anybody, just basically us. We get engaged, we go to the Dominican Republic, we have a little honeymoon esque thing, then we get back to like the real world. We get our phones back. Soon as get our phones back. Amy has a promotion. She's now leading like two accounts essentially by herself, which is like a massive, massive mass amount of work. And it just not only that, but catching up.

[Johnny]

Yeah. So. And then, you know, filming would take a long time too, so we would. I would be. Well, because at that moment you were.

[Guest]

Yeah.

[Johnny]

You were like a little leave of absence, right?

[Guest]

Yeah, my work was not the best.

[Johnny]

Yeah. So we were kind of both going through it and like our jobs, each.

[Host]

Other, walking our dogs.

[Johnny]

Oh, literally.

[Host]

Yeah.

[Johnny]

R.P.

[Host]

Rico.

[Guest]

I know. He was so sweet.

[Host]

So good. It's like in the middle of the day, literally.

[Johnny]

God bless that neighborhood.

[Guest]

But oh my gosh.

[Johnny]

Yeah. So I feel like it was just like a lot to juggle. Yeah, a lot to juggle.

[Guest]

Yeah.

[Johnny]

So.

[Guest]

But she absolutely crushed it. She went from.

[Johnny]

But it was also thanks to you.

[Guest]

Literally working a full day, like 8 to 5, 5:30. And then right after that, like, you'd still be working. They'd come in, they'd set up all the cameras and they'd be like, okay, action. We were starting and that'll be going on till like literally midnight.

[Johnny]

I Like, forget that we even.

[Guest]

You know, she's one of the strongest.

[Host]

That was a time. That was a time. Do you guys have any advice for future couples going on to love is blind?

[Johnny]

I. I always say don't force anything 100%. Like, just naturally, like, flow with it. I feel like it's. It's a very exciting experiment to. To be on. And I feel like when, you know how intricate it is, like, the application process and, like, everything that you do, like, they really do try to find people that are kind of in that same, like, I guess, type that the person has. But, like, at the end of the day, if the vibes aren't there, the vibes aren't there. Like, don't force anything. And I feel like. Yeah, I feel like that's the best way to go about it.

[Guest]

Yeah. I was gonna say definitely trust your intuition, because you have that little feeling in your gut for a reason. You might think that something might be better, so it might be worse if you're, you know, you decide to say yes or no to someone at the altar. But you know, kind of deep down what the right path is, and don't be afraid to make that choice.

[Host]

I love that. I don't really know Yalls, like, dating history in the pods. Were y' all, like, locked in from the beginning, or were you each other's number ones? Like, what was that dynamic?

[Johnny]

No, I would always say that Johnny was here for a good time. Not a long time. Johnny. I don't know.

[Host]

I don't.

[Johnny]

I didn't talk to you after day one.

[Guest]

I think it was day one and that was it. Yeah.

[Host]

I was like, I don't know what.

[Johnny]

You talk about day four or five. That's when we decided to be exclusive. Solidified. Yeah. I feel like we definitely, like, evaluated everybody. Johnny was the last one that I was like, this is the last man I have hope in. And I remember telling producers because I had, like, a breakdown, because I was just like, I don't know what's going on. There's so many feelings and all this stuff. And so then I tell her. I'm like, if, like, Johnny doesn't get deep with me tomorrow, and I'm not initiating it. Cause I'm tired of initiating conversations. If he doesn't initiate a conversation where I get to know him, like, more who he is at his core, then I'm out. And the next day, he did. And I was like, did producers ever tell you anything? And he was like, no, never.

[Guest]

They never.

[Johnny]

It just, like, it worked out. Perfect. Because I was ready to just like.

[Host]

Was this after your ukulele performance?

[Johnny]

Oh.

[Guest]

Yeah, they got me singing twice. And they didn't get you playing the ukulele?

[Johnny]

No, literally, that was very much before.

[Host]

If we find a clip of that.

[Johnny]

Ukulele, I'm gonna be like, I can't. So in the interview process for Love is Blind, they like, asked me, like, anything that, like, of any interest that I like. It was something along those lines. I was like, at that point, like, it was like two years after Covid. So during COVID I had picked up learning the ukulele. Cause I was bored outta my mind. So I was like, why not learn? And so I told them, well, I mean, I like to play the ukulele. You know what I mean? I like to play. Amy, please.

[Guest]

You know, little do you know, we actually have ukulele right here.

[Johnny]

I'm screaming. So then I brought the damn ukulele. And so then they asked me to, like, perform for him. And I'm like, you know what? I don't want him. This is it. This. I mean, don't get me wrong. Yeah, I like to sing, but I was like, this is not the time and the place for me.

[Host]

Oh. Oh, my God.

[Johnny]

And so they went and tuned it up for me and I was like, you know, I'm gonna just do my little bit and just call it a day.

[Host]

What did you sing?

[Johnny]

It was. It was Adore you by Harry Styles. But I think I changed it. I changed the lyrics so it would be like something about the pause. Like, I think I. I said I would have walked through these pods for you or something corny like that. So, yeah, it was. It's not the best.

[Guest]

It was amazing. It was fantastic.

[Johnny]

I just can imagine you like, okay.

[Host]

You'Re really good now you're married. Do you play the ukulele at home?

[Johnny]

You know what? No. Because I get my nails done all the time. I used to always get my nails done, but then Covid hit, so I was like, why am I gonna get my nails? So you know.

[Host]

Okay.

[Johnny]

But.

[Host]

Well, if you ever bring it out, I would love to.

[Johnny]

Maybe one day it'll be recorded.

[Guest]

It'll be recorded.

[Host]

Put on the YouTube. Put it on the YouTube.

[Johnny]

Oh, no, not the YouTube.

[Host]

Yeah.

[Johnny]

Okay.

[Host]

So it's been one year since our season aired and two since we film. Looking back, is there anything that you would have changed about your experience?

[Guest]

I wouldn't have sang in the pods.

[Host]

Or at least keep the performing to a low.

[Guest]

At least not once or twice. What I was singing.

[Host]

Yes.

[Johnny]

I think I would have embraced the process more. I feel like I was excited for the experiment, but it was also so last minute for me because I wasn't thinking of participating because I had trips planned out during filming. And then it was because the first one got canceled last minute. That kind of just opened the doors for me. So I was just, like, curious of what could happen, but also very nervous. And I was just like, I feel like I wasn't fully myself. I feel like I tried to be the best that I could be, but I just feel like I should have just embraced the process a little bit more.

[Host]

You know, honestly, I probably. I would have cared less. Like, I would have, like, given effort and energy, but I just feel like I cared too much about everyone all the time. And I think I didn't focus so much on me and, like, my inner voice, like you were saying, and my intuition. I think I just was, like, catering to everyone's feelings. I would've just catered.

[Johnny]

Yeah, that's a good point.

[Host]

Way less. Definitely energy and effort and been as, you know, authentic as possible. But, yeah, I was stressed. I was stressed all in shambles. I was never happy.

[Guest]

And it's over. The most random things too, like, oh, my God, the other couple did this, the other couple did that. And it's like, oh, no, but we're in this together. It's like, yeah, we're in this together, but at the same point, it's like, we can have fun. We have a big decision ahead of us. Let's make sure we make the right one too.

[Host]

Right, Right, right, right. I was focused on the wrong thing anyway, but look at you now.

[Johnny]

Exactly.

[Guest]

Everything worked out best.

[Johnny]

That's fine.

[Host]

Okay, so y' all were viewed as the strongest couple all season, except for the birth control speed bump. How did you handle the backlash from that moment? And is there anything else you want to clarify now or do you feel like everything's been said?

[Amy]

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[Johnny]

Lord, the backlash was so annoying, especially because, like, I feel like there was so much heat on him, and I feel like I could at the moment, especially when episodes were still airing, I feel like I couldn't really defend him. I still, like, made a statement.

[Host]

Yeah, yeah.

[Johnny]

You were like, oh, that's her. But, I mean, I feel like when people see the show, they see, like. I don't know, like, it's like, this whole, like, quick process. Like, it's fine. Like, it's not that big of a deal, but. But I'm like, this is something that we really gotta think through. And I feel like we were just, like, super in our heads, which honestly wasn't that bad of a thing either. But we wanted to take things slow and be very wise about and just.

[Guest]

Put a lot of intention to what we're talking about, what we want to build for the future, too. And I feel like, at least with me personally, one of the biggest things is I didn't want to rush things that didn't have to be rushed. And again, in a process where you're supposed to be married in, what, eight, ten weeks, you're rushing a lot of it very fast. So the one thing I was very nervous about was, okay, well, once we are married and we're done filming with everything, are we gonna have time to actually get to know each other and get to, like, exactly. Just build that, like, connection more? Because when we got married, I was in love with Amy, but I feel like a year later, it was like, completely different because it's like, oh, this is what it should actually feel like. And then two years later, it's, like, even different now. Like, it's crazy. So I just want to make sure that we weren't jumping the gun on things that we weren't truly ready for.

[Host]

The time to get to know your person with a baby in there.

[Guest]

Oh, yeah.

[Johnny]

Because we were just. I mean, now I feel like we've talked about it and, like, granted, we're not. Like, I feel like there's still some other things that we want to do till we're at that next step, but I feel like now we're comfortable if it happens. You know what I mean?

[Host]

Like, we're like, okay, do you still get comments. Every time you post, I see a bump.

[Guest]

Every time I'm like, we got one yesterday.

[Johnny]

I'm like, honey, I'm just built like that. I have scoliosis. My tummy sometimes poke out. I'm bloated. Like, it's just.

[Host]

You will know when it's time to know.

[Guest]

We will announce what happens.

[Host]

But right now, every time I go on your comments, it's like, it's a bump.

[Johnny]

Yeah. I see a bump one time, something.

[Host]

And he was, like, trying to hide.

[Guest]

I'm like, wow, you know the gender before it even happens.

[Host]

No, that's crazy. That's actually insane. But you guys feel like that's all signed, sealed, and delivered. I mean, everything you said.

[Guest]

Yeah. When the time comes. The time comes, we're both gonna be. Well, we're both. I feel like we'll be as ready as we feel like we can be, but we're both gonna be really excited.

[Johnny]

You're never really ready, ever.

[Host]

You just pray for the best.

[Johnny]

Yeah, exactly.

[Host]

Do your best and the best will come.

[Johnny]

Exactly.

[Host]

Why do you guys think you were, like, the strongest couple from our season?

[Johnny]

I don't know. I mean, it's so funny, because we didn't see that.

[Host]

Like, we just see ourselves as the strongest couple. I remember when we did probably going through it. You didn't do. But after.

[Johnny]

Yeah, I mean, after, for sure.

[Guest]

I do have to say, though, like, I still remember when. So after the pause, after we did, like, the reveal, I was like, okay, they're probably not gonna follow me and Amy because we aren't, like, as strong as, like, some of the other couples. And because there was, like, seven couples that were actually engaged that went through, like, the reveals and everything. And I was like, oh, they're definitely gonna pick one of the other two over us, just because throughout the whole process, they were, you know, just. They were the ones that viewed at least when they went back into, like, the lounge area, that they were so in love. So I was like, okay, you know what? Like, we're done. Like, we're gonna go back home on the plane.

[Johnny]

We're gonna be engaged next to each other on the plane. That's all that matters. So I. I just don't think we saw it as that. Like, I feel like the day of the, you know, like, when we were getting proposed, I didn't know if he was, you know, going to propose or not. So it was just, like, one of those things that I was just like, okay with whatever outcome. Like, I did, like, you know, obviously have love for him, but I also didn't want him to feel, like, the pressure to, like, move forward if he wasn't ready yet, but.

[Guest]

Cause that was one of the things I was absolutely terrified of, was I didn't want to make a mistake, and I didn't want to get engaged someone that I wasn't truly in love with and ready for and ready to actually take that next step. Because I view engagement as, like, this really big, scary thing that, you know, once you are engaged, it's like, that's it. I don't. Like, that's it, because I only want to get married once, and I still only want to be married once. That's it. Make it plain. Oh, 100%. But I don't know. I feel like the commitment level is, like. It's a very scary thing, especially for guys, too, because I feel like guys are told and, like, expected. You have to have, like, everything 100% set in stone and ready before you make the next step. And if you can't provide for your partner in any specific way, you aren't ready for that step.

[Host]

Yeah.

[Guest]

And I don't know. It just was, like. It's kind of scary.

[Host]

Yeah. So after you watch the show and you're like, whoa, we saw it in.

[Johnny]

A different light, you know, because I feel like, especially a reveal, I. I did not. Like, I was so nervous. I did not know what was happening. I was like, oh, he's cute, but I'm also like, what's happening? I don't. Like, I was like, is this. Is he for. Am I being punked? Is this the real man that I was talking to? Like, I was trying to match the voice with the face and everything, and so. But it was just really magical. Seeing it really does. Like, I feel like it's. I mean, obviously, I believe that we're soulmates, but it's just, like, it's two soulmates finally, like, reuniting in this lifetime. And that's how I see it. And so it was really magical to see. Like, but in the moment, just not thinking about that, like, when you're just, like, partaking in the experiment, like, you are taking it as serious as you can because it is such a big deal. And I feel like we just overthink everything, too. So I feel like we were just like, constantly in our heads without, like, really seeing the. The reality of the beauty of the love that was there.

[Host]

When you were watching the show, were you. Well, we all knew the ending. Yeah. But were you, like, I can't believe this. Certain couple didn't make it or I really thought that this couple was there someone that you guys are. A couple that you guys are actually rooting for, I think for.

[Johnny]

Well, for me it was Brittany and Ken.

[Guest]

Yeah, I was gonna say that was like the one couple I was really, really rooting for because I love Ken.

[Johnny]

Yeah.

[Guest]

He is like an amazing person.

[Johnny]

The only other good me I know.

[Host]

And can we trust?

[Guest]

He is like every time you talk to him, you just leave with a big smile on your face, feeling so just like full of life, full of happiness, full of hope, like, everything. Like, I really, really wanted to work out for him. Yeah.

[Johnny]

And they just seem so marriage minded. Like they were ready. I was like, oh, this has happened. They're the strongest couple, like, to me at the time, like, I was like, they're 1000% the strongest.

[Host]

I could see that.

[Guest]

Yeah.

[Host]

So we miss you, Ken. Okay, let's move on. Game time. Okay, so this game is called POD or Fraud. And basically I'll say a quote and then you guys have to decide if it's from the pods or if it's fraud.

[Johnny]

Ooh, I like that.

[Host]

So was it set in the pods or was it, oh, my gosh, something I made up or somewhere else?

[Johnny]

Sounds good.

[Host]

Okay, so it's not gonna be easy. It's gonna be really hard. We're gonna have to work every day.

[Johnny]

So dramatic. I know a man said that, but.

[Host]

I wanna do it because I want you. I want all of you. Forever, you and me, every day.

[Johnny]

Was that Matthew? Wait, Fraud or pod?

[Guest]

Was this. Out of all the people or things that was actually cut in, was that our season?

[Host]

So this could be from in the pods or somewhere out in the world. A movie, a book, something I've heard on a commercial.

[Johnny]

I feel like this was pause. I don't know why.

[Guest]

I feel like, narrow down what guy said that. So I'm gonna say pause.

[Host]

Pause.

[Johnny]

Yeah.

[Host]

Okay. It's actually fraud. It's from the Notebook.

[Johnny]

I'm over here, like.

[Host]

Cause you know, a man did say it. A man wouldn't be that dramatic.

[Johnny]

Some of the guys were giving dramatics.

[Host]

All right, Pod or fried? Ready? What's wrong with you?

[Johnny]

That's it. I mean, it could be both. I know.

[Guest]

I'm locking in a pod. I'm just gonna lock in a pod. I feel like it was definitely said at least once by somebody in the pod, so.

[Johnny]

Yeah. Yeah, that's true.

[Host]

Okay. Correct. That was Dave and every girl in.

[Guest]

Oh, my gosh. Okay.

[Host]

Okay. I don't wanna Sound foolish, but remember, love is what brought you here. And if you trusted love this far, don't panic now. Trust it all the way.

[Johnny]

This is too poetic. I think this is.

[Guest]

This is very poetic. This is definitely written down.

[Johnny]

If this was on the pause, I need to know the detail. I say fraud.

[Guest]

I do as well. Yeah.

[Johnny]

Okay.

[Host]

You said fraud.

[Guest]

Yeah.

[Host]

Okay. Correct. It's from a movie. If Beale street could talk. Okay.

[Johnny]

It's a little voice that you do with it, too.

[Host]

Like something in me is making me want to embody the person. So sorry. Okay, ready? Love is patient. Love is kind. Love means slowly losing your mind. Potter. Fraud.

[Johnny]

I want to say fraud.

[Guest]

I want to say fraud. But again, like, I'm narrowing down, like, one person. Who.

[Host]

Like, who do you think would say that?

[Guest]

It's okay. I'm not going. Yeah.

[Host]

Podcast.

[Guest]

I'm going to say fraud.

[Johnny]

With fraud.

[Guest]

Yeah, I'm gonna say fraud, too.

[Host]

Correct. That's from 27 dress up. I just watched that the other day. Okay. Oh, God.

[Johnny]

By that. It's already giving pot. You've already said everything. I need to know the dramatics behind it. It's just so.

[Host]

Okay. One thing I don't believe in is roles or labels. Like, I can feel her voice coming at me right now. I do whatever I want. And what I want you to do is stand up. And I see you as my equal, and I'm just as strong as you. So I want to ask you, will you marry me?

[Guest]

Oh. Yep.

[Johnny]

Yeah. Pod.

[Guest]

I'm a lock in a pod.

[Host]

Yeah. Who said it?

[Guest]

Was it Gigi?

[Host]

Yeah.

[Johnny]

Good.

[Guest]

I literally saw season one and then season four. Five.

[Johnny]

She did not come to play.

[Host]

No, no. She said get up. I love her. Okay, let's. Let's do another one. I tried to start writing a sweet love letter full of love and my feelings towards you, but the truth is, I crossed it all out because I'm still hurt.

[Johnny]

I feel like. I feel like. That sounds familiar. Pod. I mean, I guess fraud could also sound familiar. I say pod.

[Guest]

These are tough. I'm a. I'm gonna stick my. Amy. I'm say pod.

[Johnny]

Check.

[Host]

Pod. Correct. That was a letter. Britney's letter to Leo in season seven.

[Johnny]

Oh, okay. Yeah, I knew it sounded familiar.

[Host]

Okay, next one. Don't forget, I'm just a girl standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her.

[Guest]

I'm gonna say that's not pod. So that's fraud.

[Johnny]

I don't know. I'm gonna say pod. I'm gonna switch it up.

[Guest]

I feel like I've heard that before, though. Or, like, seem like I'm like, a little Instagram store.

[Host]

Chatty's Cor. Notting Hill. My favorite movie. Okay. And then last one. I don't want to change you at all. I like you. Like, I love you.

[Johnny]

Oh, that was you.

[Host]

Correct.

[Johnny]

You're so cute.

[Guest]

I swear I slept down, so. Oh, yeah.

[Host]

That was so cute. You would get that, right? That was.

[Johnny]

That sounds a little too familiar.

[Host]

You guys. So I'm really curious when I talk to people from Love is Blind, especially our season, like, do you have any big takeaways besides just being each other's person? What is your biggest takeaway from Love is Blind or your experience on the show?

[Johnny]

I will say, like, the conversations that we had in the pods really, I guess, formed the foundation of the. The communication that we have today. I feel like we really, like, dive deep into everything, and I feel like that it has really helped in just, like, every. Like, I was saying earlier, like, even just yapping, like, silly communication, but also, like, really getting vulnerable and deep. I feel like it really did build that foundation. And, like, we're always, like, open and honest with each other, and, like, we don't, like, let anything slip under the rug. And so I feel like I'm really grateful for that.

[Guest]

I'm gonna go in a little bit of a different direction because I feel like I normally talk about how important communication is and how important it is to always, like, kind of put your person first, and then, like, everything in life is going to be better. But I am going to say the one thing that I learned the most was just be kind to everybody, because you truly never know what people are going through. And, like, I feel like during our season of it too, we were just in our little bubble. We assumed that everyone else was on the exact same trajectory as us, and then all of a sudden, we just see, like, all, like, the pieces kind of, like, falling apart, and it's like we have no idea what's going on. We don't know what is true, what is false. It's just everyone kind of telling their point of view, so you never know what's going on. So just be kind to everybody.

[Host]

Yeah, I love that. I love both of you guys. Guys, so, so, so much. And I'm glad that y' all are actually in la, because you owe me dinner.

[Johnny]

Oh, listen, we'll make it happen.

[Host]

You owe me dinner. We'll make it work. Y' all are leaving today, but I'll be in Charlotte later.

[Johnny]

Yeah. And hope we're still, for the most part this summer.

[Guest]

I cannot wait to meet him. He seems like a great guy.

[Host]

He's excited to meet y' all. But thank you guys so, so so much for coming to what's the Reality and hanging out with me.

[Johnny]

Of course. Thanks for having us. We're really so proud of you and like everything that you've accom. So ecstatic for you with the engagement. I'm just like so girl, life is, life is.

[Host]

I'm so excited about it. But I really appreciate you guys so much. And I appreciate you guys for tuning into another episode of what's the Reality? Be sure to follow us on all social platforms at what's the Reality? Pod and I will see you guys next Wednesday. What's the Reality? What's the Reality? This episode is brought to you by Almond Joy. With its perfect blend of real creamy coconut, rich chocolatey taste and a satisfying.

[Amy]

Almond crunch, Almond Joy is the taste.

[Host]

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[Amy]

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