The Bachelor’s Grant Ellis on the Pressure to Be Perfect + Love Is Blind’s S6 Ambers Reunite!

Summary

Podcast Summary: What’s the Reality?

Episode: The Bachelor’s Grant Ellis on the Pressure to Be Perfect + Love Is Blind’s S6 Ambers Reunite!

Host: Amber Desiree (AD)
Guests: Grant Ellis, JD Slacker, Amber Brooks & Tanner (Love Is Blind S6)
Release Date: December 17, 2025

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Main Theme & Purpose

This episode of What’s the Reality? is packed with heartfelt reflections, unfiltered friendship, and the untold truths from favorite reality stars. Host AD (Amber Desiree) chats with The Bachelor star Grant Ellis about the intense pressure of being the franchise’s second Black lead, choosing authenticity, and his journey post-show. The show also features a moving segment with JD Slacker (Luke Strong Foundation), discussing advocacy for sickle cell disease. In a "Love Is Blind" mini-reunion, AD welcomes S6’s Amber Brooks and her husband Tanner for candid talk about their unconventional love story, marriage after reality TV, new business endeavors, and what never made it to air.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Grant Ellis on Life After "The Bachelor"

• Catching Up with Grant (00:34 – 01:51)

  • Post-show: Attended NY Fashion Week, developing new show “Spin the Block” (dating coach/hitch concept).
  • Emphasizes increased presence in L.A. and his evolving role as a mentor for young men in the dating space.
  • “Just people know me a little more… now I have a little more authority in the dating space, and I could be a really, really good example.” (01:31)

• Pressure to Be Perfect as a Black Bachelor

  • Grant candidly discusses being the second Black lead and the pressure “to be perfect in a lot of ways,” the challenges of being himself under scrutiny, and the balancing act of representation and authenticity.
  • “There is an extra added layer of pressure that comes with being a lead that’s of color. I think people don’t really recognize that, but… it’s not for everybody to understand.” (02:16)

• Authenticity vs. Perfection: Lessons Learned

  • Grant reflects how striving too hard to be a flawless role model ended up backfiring. He expresses no regrets but wishes he had shown more of his real social personality on-screen.
  • “People are going to judge you regardless… Always be you, and people are gonna dislike you or like you, regardless.” (03:52; 04:38)
  • Notable story: Grant’s approach in the mall—he greeted someone in his authentic style, only for it to be labeled "the ick" by fans, yet he stands by being himself. (05:15 – 05:38)

• On Current Dating and Faith

  • Grant is single and focused on faith, not actively dating: “I’m not in the streets. I’m not outside. I’m inside.” (07:06)
  • Letting things come in their own time rather than forcing the outcome.

• Franchise Reflections and Future Projects

  • Thoughts on Taylor Frankie Paul (Mormon Wives) becoming The Bachelorette—Grant supports the franchise including more “real life flaws” for relatability.
  • Would only consider returning to TV in a capacity where he has creative control (projects of his own).
  • Grant’s finance background has allowed him to pursue passion projects independently.

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Advocacy & Brotherhood: Grant Ellis & JD Slacker (Luke Strong Foundation)

• How They Met & The Power of Friendship (10:24 – 12:15)

  • Bonded playing basketball on the Bachelor set; discovered prior college rivalry. Friendship is rooted in sportsmanship and aligned values.

• Luke Strong Foundation: Fighting Sickle Cell Disease (13:45 – 24:18)

  • JD’s emotional story: Inspired by his late friend Luke, who suffered from sickle cell disease.
  • The foundation focuses on awareness, advocacy, and providing need-based grants to families with children undergoing bone marrow transplants.
  • “Sickle cell is a blood disease… not talked about nearly enough. We need more people with large voices… get on their megaphones and say, ‘hey, we need to change some of these things.’” (13:14 – 13:45)
  • Part of their goal: Grow partnerships with hospitals (currently 15, aiming to double/triple), fundraise, and expand awareness globally.
  • Advice: Even if you can't donate, sharing the story and inviting them to speak makes a big impact.

• Key Takeaways on Giving Back

  • Grant on purpose: “Whether you’re doing a TED Talk or speaking at an elementary school, you show up with purpose… We want to use our platform to make a difference.” (14:28)
  • JD on allyship: "It’s not about what you look like… It's about connection and a common cause." (19:36)
  • Both stress authenticity and staying true to oneself.

[Key Quotes]

• JD Slacker (17:16): “Being a Caucasian male from the suburbs... this (sickle cell) is not something that could affect people that look like me yet it’s changed my life and given me such purpose.”
• Grant Ellis (24:45): “The people that are for you are going to find you… Be yourself and the people that are for you are for you.”

[How to Support]

• Website: www.lukestrong.org
• Charity Book: Moonflower – proceeds go directly to the foundation.

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Love Is Blind S6 "Ambers" Reunion: Updates, Friendship, & Real-Life Love

• Reunion Vibes & Life Now (26:35 – 30:16)

  • Amber Brooks and Tanner update: newly married, living in Charlotte, business partners, savoring life post-‘pods.’
  • AD and Amber reminisce on becoming best friends during the show’s “pods” phase, bonded over matching energy and mutual support.
  • Light-hearted moment: Amber’s “ad libs” and games in the pods helped her cope: “I was honestly, like, just trying to have as much fun as I could, ‘cause I thought I was losing my mind.” (28:36)

• Amber & Tanner’s Relationship Backstory (31:28 – 35:58)

  • Met through mutual friends before the show. Amber joined Love Is Blind after a brief period of dating Tanner (not official yet).
  • Tanner’s boundary: not interested in a relationship with someone going on TV; Amber believed in the process and chose to participate, prioritizing her journey.
  • After the show, Amber returned, reached out, and they rekindled, leading to marriage.
  • “I think I just needed to take the leap of faith… Maybe my husband is there. Maybe… he wasn’t, and that’s okay.” – Amber Brooks (35:11)

• Reality TV Aftermath, Edits & Authenticity (39:28 – 40:48)

  • Discuss “edits” on the show vs. real life: viewers only see a small slice; much is misunderstood or left out.
  • “She never lied, but she was like, I don’t know, because she didn’t know… months go on, she’s like, ‘well, actually, no, I was in this thing…’” — Tanner (40:10)

• Married Life & New Ventures

  • Opening Tipsy Pickle, Charlotte’s new pickleball restaurant/bar (41:00).
  • Amber launching a podcast, “Crafting Chemistry,” which combines interviews with crafts and a matchmaking component (58:05).
  • Both juggle business, renovations, and contemplating expanding their family.

• Reflections on Love Is Blind (current & past seasons) (47:02 – 54:34)

  • Open, honest takes about emotional struggles, the importance of lifestyle compatibility, and the reality of living together after the show.
  • Discussion on authenticity, “edits,” and public reception—especially how time changes perspective once the show finally airs.
  • Warm memories about the challenge and support of real friendships from the show.

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• Grant Ellis (On Authenticity):
  "I think that some of the fans...have this connotation that you can't...just be a husband...but that's me. I was like, 'I'm just going to be myself.' And it ended up, quote unquote, kind of backfiring on me. But I am happy that I was myself because that's who I am." (05:38)

• Grant on Future Plans:
  "I've been in finance for about seven years... it's allowed me to fund my own ideas and dreams. Trading is something I’m always going to do… I told myself before I’m 35, I want to have kids…” (09:35)

• JD Slacker (On Allyship and Impact):
  “It’s not about color, it’s not about what you look like...it’s about connection and it’s about a common cause.” (19:36)

• Amber Brooks (On "Love Is Blind" Journey):
  “Everyone’s journey is different, but I didn’t have a boyfriend [when cast]. I stayed true to myself and did what was best for me. My husband clearly wasn’t there. So my journey was—I came home, reconnected…” (39:10)

• Tanner (On Marriage Realities):
  “When you move in with somebody—things change… marriage is hard, living together is hard, lifestyle changes are hard.” (48:19)

• Amber Brooks (Biggest Takeaway):
  “Just sticking true to my gut feeling of what I should do… staying true to myself.” (47:06)

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Timestamps by Segment

• Grant Ellis Interview: 00:34 – 10:19
• JD Slacker & Luke Strong Foundation: 10:24 – 25:15
• Ambers Reunion & Love Is Blind Panel: 26:35 – 61:04

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Memorable, Lighthearted Moments

• AD and Amber reminisce on “ad libs,” silly games, and telepathy in the pods (28:25)
• Amber devised a "crafts and interview" format for her new matchmaking podcast (58:12)
• The group cheers on each other's business ventures, podcasts, and marriages—"Shout out, McDonald's” becomes a running in-joke when discussing pregnancy cravings (57:49)

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Final Takeaways

• From Grant: "Always be you... the people that are for you are going to find you." (24:45)
• From JD: "You’d be surprised at… the kind of blessings that can come your way." (25:17)
• From Ambers & Tanner: Their story proves love doesn’t have to follow the reality TV script to flourish, and real friendships forged on-screen can last far beyond.

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“Whether you’re giving a TED Talk or dancing somewhere, show up with purpose. Use your platform to make a difference.” — Grant Ellis (14:28)

“If you’re not in a position to give, share the story. Have us advocate. Anything you can do is the real backbone.” — JD Slacker (23:48)

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Further Info & How to Help

• Luke Strong Foundation: www.lukestrong.org
• Moonflower (charity edition): 100% proceeds support sickle cell families.
• Follow: @whatstherealitypod on all social platforms for updates and more backstage reality TV content.

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Transcript

[A]

What's the reality? What's the reality? What's up? What's up, you guys? Welcome to another episode of what's the Reality? It's me, AD and today I have a very special guest with me. You may know him from season 29 of the Bachelor. Please welcome Grant Ellis.

[B]

How you guys doing? How you doing?

[A]

I'm great. How are you?

[B]

It's been a long time since I've been in front of the camera, so I'm a little nervous.

[A]

Well, welcome. We got the dress code, apparently, right.

[B]

We're matching.

[A]

Okay, so we're off to a great start.

[B]

Off to a great start. We got the chemistry, the synergy.

[A]

Okay, so later, we'll be joined by your best friend, J.D. to discuss a cause near and dear to both of your hearts. But before he comes out, catch me up. What have you been up to since your show finished airing?

[B]

Oh, man, I've been up to a lot. Really? Just came back from New York Fashion Week, actually. Not plugging, but working on a new series called Spin the Block, where I'm. It's kind of like a play off a hitch where I'm. I'm like a dating coach teaching young men, you know, how to date a woman with intention, how to dress, how to talk, how to command a room, and. Yeah, so working on that. That's coming up very soon.

[A]

Kitchen.

[C]

Cool.

[A]

That's one of my favorite movies.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

And what other better role than the Bachelor? The Ex Bachelor, you know, so, yeah, that's what I'm working on currently, and getting funding for that and getting the project really started up, and that's what I'm working on.

[A]

Pretty cool. Okay. So how has life changed since your season of the Bachelor aired?

[B]

I'm just in LA a lot more, honestly.

[A]

Yeah. Do you live here?

[B]

No, I don't live here. My sister stays here, so I'm here with her a lot. Just hanging out. Spend a lot more time with her. But really, really nothing much has changed. This life has really been. Life was great before, and it's great now. Just people. People know me a little more, and I feel like. Yeah, I feel like just now I have a little more authority in the dating space, and I could be a really, really good example. That's what I. That's what I feel like I'm trying to do.

[A]

Okay. I can understand that you got some criticism over being indecisive at the end of your season, but you said it was partly due to added pressure that comes with being a man of color in this role. Can you talk to me more about that pressure?

[B]

Yeah, just, you know, being on the Bachelor, obviously, you know, there's a history, and being the second black leader, I felt like I had to be per. I felt like I had to be perfect in a lot of ways and, you know, not truly living in my skin, which is, you know, but when there's a lot of eyes on you, I feel like in any situation, you have to be that way. But there is an extra added layer of pressure that comes with being a lead that's of color. I think people don't really recognize that, but, you know, it's not for everybody to understand. And that's. That's where you take your uniqueness and. And your skill sets, you bring them to a different. A different project where you could show a little bit of more your personality. But I'm forever grateful for the Bachelor franchise and everything that's done for me in my life, but the pressure was real.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

It's not every day you're dating 20, 25 women.

[A]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I did notice because I watched your season. Me and my sister, we're big fans of your season, and there was, like, a difference between who you were on the screen and then who you were on, like, TikTok and stuff.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Which I thought was pretty cool. I wish we could have merged that and saw more of the TikTok version or social media version of you on your season. But like you said, it is. There is some pressure.

[B]

Yeah. It's not only that. It's like, you know, when you're. When you're. I don't know how. When you're doing the show, you know, there's a. There's a certain way that the show operates. You know, you have a stylus and a wardrobe and, you know, certain things, you know, kind of curated. So it's really. I found it kind of hard to be really truly myself because I didn't, you know, not to say I wouldn't have been a great example if I wasn't myself, but what I learned coming off the show is that yo, people are going to judge you regardless. And that was a big life lesson for me, being on a Bachelor and knowing who I am and people not really getting. Getting to experience me, who I. Who I really am, because I was trying to be just too.

[C]

Too.

[B]

I'm not going to say perfect, but I was trying to be a really good role model, not make any mistakes, and I ended up making a lot of mistakes. So I could have. Should just be myself.

[D]

Right.

[A]

Because they're going to judge regardless. Right. Do you have any regrets from your season?

[B]

No. Honestly, I. I feel like I handled myself really well. There's a lot of things that happened behind the scenes that, you know, I didn't speak on, and I will not speak on to this day. I will let people have their assumptions of me and what they feel. And obviously, the ladies that were on my season, they. They. You know, they get to say how they feel. And, you know, it was. It was my story. It was their story also. But the show was centered around my journey, and. Yeah, I just. I don't have. I don't live with regrets, so.

[A]

Yeah.

[E]

Yeah.

[A]

Okay. Well, with that being said, what would you say is the most valuable lesson that you learned from being the Bachelor?

[B]

The most valuable lesson I learned is what I want. It's. Honestly, it's always be you. Always be you, regardless of how many eyes are watching you or the pressure that comes. You know, you're never gonna be too good or too perfect. Always be you, and people are gonna dislike you or like you, regardless.

[A]

Yeah, I get that a lot from reality contestants. Cause that's also a way I felt. Luckily, I felt like I was pretty authentic on my shows. But I do get that a lot when I'm asking people, like, how do you feel? Like, maybe do you think you could have done any or done something better? And it's always like, be authentic. Be yourself. That's always the feedback I get.

[B]

Yeah, there was some instances where it was a little bit of myself, you know, but like, like, like, listen, like, I never watched Bridgerton ever in my life. You know, I'm dancing Bridgerton and I'm riding horses, and there's no nut. I just. I. You know what I'm saying? I remember one time I came down, We. We were in the mall and what's the Beverly Center? I came down the steps and I was like, what's up, girl? And like, people said they got the ick, but that's me.

[A]

Yeah.

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

You know what I'm saying?

[A]

Like, that's before or after the song you wrote?

[B]

This was before. It was the same.

[A]

You know what I'm saying?

[B]

That's me, though. You know what I'm saying? And I think there's. I think that some of the fans. And this is not me criticizing at all. Some of the fans have this connotation that you can't love looks one way. You got to get married. You got to shut up. Just be a husband. You could do music. You could paint. You could do certain things. And that's why I felt like it was me. I was like, you know what? I'm just going to go. I'm just going to be myself. And it ended up, quote unquote, like, kind of backfiring on me. But I'm. I am happy that I was myself because that's who I am.

[D]

Yes.

[B]

I'm always going to be me.

[A]

Yeah. Okay, so obviously we know your relationship from the show unfortunately didn't end up working out. What is your current dating life looking like? And are you dating? Are you single?

[B]

Listen, I've had my fair share of dates in my life. I feel like right now where I stand, I'm really, really focused. I'm really locked in on my faith in my relationship with God. And I'm not. I'm not really dating. I'm waiting for it to come to me in a sense. And I know that's kind of like, people probably like, this dude's crazy. How are you going to find. But I find when I do things on my own merit, I mess up a lot. Like, I genuinely do. So I'm at a point in my life where I'm just. I'm waiting, you know, I'm waiting. I'm focusing on my career and myself, and when my wife comes, I'm gonna know, you know?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Until then. Yeah, I'm not. I'm not in the streets. I'm not outside. I'm inside.

[A]

Noted, noted, noted. You guys all heard it here. He's not in the streets.

[B]

Yeah, I'm not. I'm not in the streets.

[A]

Okay, so I want to get your thoughts on Taylor, Frankie Paul from Mormon Wives joining the franchise as a new Bachelorette. Do you think the franchise needed to switch things up? Do you have any thoughts on it?

[B]

Yeah, I think it's going to be. I think that's going to be a great season. I think that they're definitely trying to go a new direction, and I feel like, like I said, nobody's perfect. You know what I'm saying? So having more people that have real life flaws and real life things going on and not painting. Painting a perfect picture, I think that's. That's the way to go. You know, I think that. I think that the. The audience is who the audience is, and I feel like this season is going to be a step in the right direction.

[A]

Yeah, it's going to help with relatability.

[B]

It's going to help with relatability.

[A]

Have you ever seen Mormon Wives?

[B]

I've never seen Mormon Wives.

[A]

You Gotta watch one season.

[B]

I gotta watch. Even on my season. Like, one of the contestants, you know, told me she was. I didn't really know what Mormonism was. Like. I heard of it, but I wasn't familiar.

[A]

So, you know now.

[B]

I know now. I was kind of thrown for a loop. I'm like, you know, so. But I'm definitely gonna watch, you know, part of Bachelor Nation now. And I'm going to watch. I'm going to have some popcorn and some soda and I'm going to watch.

[A]

A few of your bachelor friends were on a show that Ollie and I just did. Perfect Match. Did you get to catch Clayton?

[B]

I saw Clayton was on it. I actually, actually came to our after party when I got engaged. He was there, so he showed support and he danced to one of my songs. So I rock with Clayton. And Clayton's somebody who's always going to be himself. So it's like, of course, you gotta, you gotta respect that, you know?

[A]

Yeah. Would you do reality TV again? I know you have your project, but would you be.

[B]

Honestly, I think if I ever do something, it's gonna have to be my own project where I'm. Where I'm in control. Like, and that's one thing where, you know, not that I, you know, I, I kind of with production or like, I, I'm very stubborn, you know what I'm saying? And I got to where I am in my life by doing things my way. And that's kind of like where in this next chapter, I'm like, I'm learning, okay. I have to let people take the reins because people know what they're doing. You know what I'm saying? So if I do ever do reality tv, it would have to be on my. My own, probably my own project.

[A]

Yeah, I feel that 100%. What is next for you? What does the future look like? You spoke a little bit about your new project, but is there anything else personal or career wise you want to get into?

[B]

Yeah, so obviously I was in finance. I've been, I've been in the market for about seven years. So that's an. That's a, That's a lifelong thing for me. And that's something that I want to. It's allowed me to fund my own ideas and dreams. So trading is something that I'm always going to do. Something I'm always going to be doing, obviously my project. And then obviously, you know, I told myself before I'm 35, I want to have kids. And, you know, I'm still, still. That's the goal, you know, because there's a part of me that's always working. There's a part of me that. That is missing. But right now, obviously, I got engaged on tv. I didn't work out. So now I'm just taking a step back and focusing on. On my career right now.

[A]

Understood. I love that for you, and I'm rooting for you.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

Yeah, I'm excited to see what comes. What comes from all that.

[B]

Thank you. I appreciate it.

[A]

Okay, you guys, we have a new guest joining us on the couch. Please welcome one of Grant's best friends and founder of the Luke Strong foundation, JD Slacker.

[E]

Hey. Thank you, A.D. so much for having me, Grant. It's good to join you, bro. This is gonna be fun. I, you know, can't say enough good things about this guy, everything he's doing, but truly an honor to be here, AD thank you for having me.

[A]

Yeah, of course. Well, welcome. So can you guys explain to the listeners a little bit about how you met and a little bit about this friendship?

[E]

Grant, why don't you take it, my man.

[B]

So we met on the Bachelor. Honestly, we met. No, we met. Yeah, we met filming a scene on the Bachelor. He was a Hooper. I'm a Hooper. And we had a scene where we were playing basketball, and we met. We were competing, and we just clicked. After that, he took me to my first Clippers game.

[E]

Yep.

[B]

You know, and after that, it was. It was history.

[E]

Well, what's funny about it as well is, like, you get the call from a friend saying, like, hey, could you come and play basketball on the Bachelor? And you're thinking, like, all right, I'm gonna have to guard somebody who's probably, like, five, eight, you know, like, doesn't really play basketball. I get out there and this dude's windmilling, six four, athletic. And I'm like, I got completely set up to be trashed on reality tv.

[B]

And he's trash talking me. He's like, shoot. Shoot it.

[E]

I'm like, yeah, we was funny too. Is like, they. I. I'd get out there and they'd be like, all right, you jump right. He goes left. Like, we just need to get a couple shots. They're like, no, go compete. And so me and this dude are, like, going at it and had an amazing time. But we actually also figured out we played against each other in college and didn't know it. So we became fast friends. And watching him and his career and, like, rise through fame has been amazing because, look, like, a lot of people don't know what a good person he is off camera, how good of a friend he is, how much he shows up and, like, supports people and yeah, we've just become, like, allies and partners in a lot of different projects, but just friends, too.

[A]

So that's beautiful.

[B]

The homie right here.

[A]

The homie. Okay, noted. So, JD can you give us a little background on why you started Luke Strong and what the working in this foundation is doing?

[E]

Yeah, absolutely. I mean, it's the most important thing I get to do ad is talk about my best friend Luke. Luke was a friend of mine who passed away from sickle cell disease at a young age. And he was my biggest fan as a high school and college athlete. And Luke inspired everything about my career. The novels I've written, the nonprofit I help run. I'm also giving a TED Talk next month in Greenville, South Carolina, about Luke and sickle cell disease. And I'm also working on a documentary about our story and everything surrounding it. So there's so much in terms of just that Luke Strong kind of atmosphere we've created. But what's really terrific is to have somebody with such a huge platform and presence like Grant, come along and partner with me now. And Grant now is helping us with the advocacy and awareness for Luke Strong. And, you know, it's been amazing to watch somebody like, like I said, come along as an ally to support this cause because sickle cell disease is not talked about nearly enough. And, you know, we need more, I think people with large voices to, you know, kind of get on their megaphones and say, hey, we need to change some of the things that are going on. And that's a huge part of what I do, too, is try to find other people that are willing to do that.

[A]

So is that what made you choose Grant to be the newest ambassador, or was there something else that made you bring him in?

[E]

I would say choose is not even the word I would go with. I would say it just kind of naturally aligned. It was like when Grant and I had the conversation. I'll let him answer, too. Is just like, look, we're involved in so many different things together and doing so many different, you know, we're. We're partnering on so many causes. It was a natural fit that this is something that I'm doing constantly. And you know, him, as I said, him being such a good person, such a kind hearted guy, and also just such a hard worker and wanting to add, you know, a philanthropic angle to who he is, I thought would be a tremendous benefit.

[B]

So, yeah, something I Learned something I can't like obviously I said from, from New Jersey, live down Houston. My introduction to, to LA and just being thrown into what is, you know, reality TV and Hollywood. I, I learned a lot from J.D. not even from that angle, just from that pro. The aspect of showing up to things with purpose and whether they're, whether you're doing a TED Talk or you're speaking at an elementary school, you show up and you do it with purpose and you show, you know, some people that I don't want to do that small or I don't want to do this or it's too big, I'm nervous. You show up, even killed. And I think that's the athlete in JD and that's, that's one of the, that's where we bonded. We're both former athletes and we want to use whatever, whatever God given talents we have and platform we have to, to make a difference. That's why I partner. So whatever project I'm in or whatever he's doing is always Luke Strong. And I met the family. They're great people, faith based people and like immediately I was drawn to them. Like, you know what, regardless of what I'm doing, whether I'm dancing or I'm starting a new thing or I'm doing this, it's like a cause behind this is awareness for Luke Strong and sickle cell purpose.

[A]

I love that. So just for our viewers, pov, do either of you guys kind of want to break down what sickle cell disease is?

[E]

Yeah, for sure. I can take some of that. I mean, sickle cell is a genetic disorder that children are born with and it affects the shape of your blood cells, your red blood cells specifically. And the only known cure is a bone marrow transplant, which is incredibly expensive and can be actually also incredibly difficult to find a transplant donor match for. So I work with NMDP or also formerly known as Be the Match as well, and they're a great partner and they come to a lot of events I get to do. But yeah, sickle cell is a blood disease and you know, it's, as I mentioned, something that Luke had and it, yeah, is just something that, you know, requires a lot of hospital stays for kids where they have to come in and out of the hospital. They have something called a sickle cell crisis. And you know, again, it's not something I knew a lot about when I grew up, but I learned through my experience and getting to know Luke, just a lot about it.

[A]

So this question is for the both of you. What do you wish More people understood about sickle cell disease.

[B]

Yeah, well, I think a lot of people don't realize that even though it affects a small, minor, a small population of people, it's a really hard sickness to get over. And the funding behind it is not that much.

[E]

Yeah. It pales in comparison to other illnesses.

[B]

Right. And I think people think because it doesn't affect a majority of population that it may not be as important. I think that's where JD and I are trying to step in and really help.

[E]

Yeah, well said. I mean, look, I think sickle cell disease is not something I knew about growing up, and a lot of people don't know a lot about it. And, you know, it's predominantly African American disorder. And so, you know, being a Caucasian male from the suburbs and being around people that didn't know the first thing about it, it really kind of was thrusted into my life out of nowhere. And my own maturation and education through it, I think is a real important thing to highlight and focus on because it's like, look, this is not something that could affect people that look like me yet. It's changed my life and it's given me such purpose and cause to speak out. And look, our country and our world is a complicated place, to say the least right now. But, man, is there something worth fighting? I don't know if there's something worth fighting for more than sickle cell disease and just the quality of medical care and income. And it's given me a ton of purpose. It's given me a ton of clarity on, like, what's really important these days. And that's another thing I've hoped to bring into Grant's life is like, hey, yeah, we're going after movies and red carpets and all these exciting, great things.

[C]

Yeah.

[E]

But let's be at a children's hospital and that morning giving back to kids. Let's go to an elementary school and talk about Luke. Let's have some purpose here, too. And the other thing I was going to mention earlier, too, is when you have a non profit attached to what you can do, you can pretty much bother anywhere, anyone, at any place to have you on any show or anything, because you, you know, this can't. This story can't be told enough.

[A]

Yeah.

[E]

There's not enough hours in the day to get it all out there. So it helps to have a partner with, you know, an amazing motor and. And drive like Grant helping me. Yeah. Get this story out and y' all could clip this.

[B]

Ready? Like, just listen, listen. So listen, I Lived in Newark for seven years. Like, I, I've been around the block, you know what I'm saying? And JD may be from LA and he may be in Malibu, but he got some seasoning I didn't have J.D. like I'm telling you. You could tell, you've been in the locker room. Like, he, he got some of the, you know what this is? That's the seasoning. So, like, that's why I really rock with JD and that's something where it's not about color, it's not about, it's about connection and it's about, it's not about what you look like or your earrings or your tattoos. It's about this.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So for me, linking with JD I was able to joke with him, laugh with him and kind of like, what with the guys back home and like we had that. We're from two different places, but we connect very closely on sports and how you want to give back. And, you know, he enjoys some fried.

[E]

Chicken, Gluten free, erewhon fried chicken for the rest of the clothes.

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

To be clear, me on Air1, so.

[E]

I got the Air1 in me.

[A]

Okay, for sure.

[E]

But no, that's as well said and I think, I think our world needs more of that.

[C]

Yeah, right.

[A]

For sure, for sure. So now that you two are working together, what are the goals for the foundation for the next few years?

[E]

Well, we're coming up on a big anniversary. It'll be 10 years next year.

[C]

Wow.

[E]

Yeah. So that's, I mean, crazy even think about. But look, just continuing to give back to children with sickle cell. I think we're partnered now at this time with 15 hospitals across the country. And it needs to be 30, it needs to be 60, it needs to be. We shouldn't have to turn away any family that needs help. So to speak more specifically on what we do is we give need based grants to families with children going through the bone marrow transplant process, which can be obviously incredibly expensive and you know, it can derail the livelihoods of a lot of people. So we come in as a financial backbone to say, hey, you know, your gas bill, your grocery bill, parking at the hospital, whatever you need to spend this on, we've got you and just focus on your little one getting back to full strength. And it's, that's, I mean, we have to raise a lot of money to be able to just give these grants out to every family that needs it. So we're constantly looking for fundraising dollars, opportunities to share the story. And yeah, I'd say our goal is to just expand on that. I'd love to continue to take this global. Like, I've had some success traveling around the country talking about this story, but I'd like to get around the world and, yeah, finding different ways, I think, and being creative about how we tell the story. Like, for example, obviously being with you guys and your team here today, which is an amazing platform, but also an audience that maybe I haven't spoken to a ton and like, finding different ways to relate in that way. And I think being creative about that moving forward is important, but I think so much of what we do is. Is highlighting and giving a voice to the people that aren't as fortunate. And I've been so amazingly fortunate to have so many supportive people around me giving me the opportunity to do things like today. I mean, Emily Blair Marcus and her EBM team, they are incredible. My publicist, she is like one of a kind. One of a kind. She's done so much for me in my life, and she deserves a lot of credit, too, for the voices she's bringing to this. And these are people that have just come along this story for the right reasons. So you'll be hearing from me constantly nowadays bothering you about having me on because, yeah, we got a lot of work to do. And now I've got Grant involved, and it's a pretty amazing thing to see and live through right now.

[A]

Awesome. So how can people help support the Luke Strong foundation and your mission?

[E]

You can find out a lot about us on our website, www.lukestrong.org or my website, jdritesbooks.com. they're both pretty synonymously related. I also have a book called Moonflower, which is written about my friend who passed away from sickle cell disease. And there's a charity edition of that book called the Moonflower charity edition, where 100% of the proceeds are donated to the Luke Strong foundation. And actually wrote it in tandem with Luke's physician. And I would say if you're. If you have the financial means to purchase the more expensive one, that's the one I would push people to buy. It has photos of me and Luke in there as well. And then, yeah, watch the TED Talk and go see the documentary. And obviously, too, it goes without saying anything Grant's doing, go and support that, too. His new show, he's working on everything that he's got in the works. Go follow Grant, check him out. Because, yeah, he's a voice for this as well now. And that's something I'm really proud of.

[B]

That'S going to be sprinkled all throughout anything. Anything. I do. So.

[A]

Okay, so there's not a shortage of ways to help.

[E]

Endless.

[A]

Yeah.

[E]

Yeah. And I think, too, what I always advocate for as well is, like, if you're not in a position to give, then then share the story, then, you know, comment, you know, tell us your story. I mean, it's okay if you're in a place where you can't just donate dollars. I mean, dollars are great, but it's like having us come and speak, having us come and advocate, using anything you can to help get these things going is the real backbone. I think of a lot of this.

[A]

Okay, well, that was actually more than I thought you were going to contribute to that.

[B]

You inspired me. Yeah.

[A]

Now I'm like, whoa, that's really powerful.

[E]

Presidential run coming soon. Me and Grant. Yeah, yeah, we're thinking about it. Our ticket's coming.

[C]

Okay.

[A]

I mean, it would be a great presidency. It would be entertaining.

[B]

I'm in the. I'm supporting.

[A]

So if my audience can take away one thing from this conversation, what would either of you want it to be?

[B]

I think the main takeaway from this conversation from. From my perspective is, listen, no matter what you look like, no matter what differences you have, what background you have, the one thing that brings people together is a common cause. And I think you can't. Like I said earlier, I was saying, you can't be afraid to be yourself. And the people that are for you are going to find you, and they're going to rock with you. They're going to move with you. So, yeah, be yourself. And the people that are for you are for you.

[C]

Absolutely.

[A]

What about you, jd?

[E]

Yeah, I would say super well said by my colleague here, Grant Ellis. Now, he's spot on. I mean, he summed a lot of what I had to say up well, too. And, yeah, just again, being surrounded by amazing people like Grant and how we've boosted each other up and continue to make each other laugh through the hecticness of what we're both living through is something I value deeply. But, yeah, I would just say that people listening out there that, you know, aren't sure what their next step is, just go into it with a full heart, and you'd be surprised at, you know, the kind of blessings that can come your way. And, yeah, Grant's been a tremendous blessing in my life, for sure.

[A]

Awesome. I can tell. This is, like, such a fun friendship. They're being really calm right now. Before we said action, they were bouncing all over the wall. So they're being really chill, which I appreciate.

[E]

Yeah, we had to lock in.

[D]

We had a lot of.

[E]

You had to lock in.

[A]

Yeah. I got real serious. But you guys, I really, really, really appreciate you choosing what's the Reality to come and share your great cause and all that you're doing for Sickle Cell. And thank you for coming and give us updates and everything that's going on in your life post the Bachelor. Of course, there's always space for you guys here. And however we can be a voice and advocate for your cause, we will do that. So thank you again.

[B]

Thank you so much.

[E]

Congrats to you as well.

[B]

Congratulations.

[E]

Yeah. Yeah.

[A]

Thank you. Thank you. Tanner and Amber, I'm so happy that you guys are here with me today on what's the Reality?

[C]

We're happy to be here with you.

[D]

Ecstatic.

[A]

Yeah. And this is Yalls first time in la?

[C]

Well, yes, technically. Technically.

[A]

Technically. Yeah, his first.

[C]

His first.

[A]

Your first time?

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

Your first time seeing it outside of the pods?

[C]

Outside of the pods. Outside of the. The box that I was in.

[A]

Yeah. Yeah, yeah. Okay, so let's. Let's get a little update.

[C]

Okay.

[A]

What is life like now? You guys are married.

[C]

We're married.

[D]

Yeah. Married life is good.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Married life is awesome.

[A]

So I've heard.

[C]

So you heard. Just two. Married life, married girlies.

[A]

And Tanner.

[C]

Well, sorry.

[D]

And the fellas.

[A]

And the fellas.

[C]

Shout out, Ollie.

[D]

Shout out, Ollie.

[A]

Okay, so let's tell the listeners a little bit more about our friendship.

[C]

Yes.

[A]

How we grew so close in the pods.

[C]

Yes, we did.

[A]

Let's just scrap the cards for a second. And.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

So we obviously met on Love is Blind Season. The best season to ever exist, some may say. Obviously.

[C]

Obviously.

[A]

And not only did we bond over the fact that our names are Amber is Amber, but then we also had the same vibe.

[C]

Like, we did. I feel like we just like instantly connected. I was like, I think that that's gonna be my bestie. Yeah, you're just like. You're just overall aura just like drew me to you. And I don't know, you're just fun.

[A]

No, thank you.

[C]

You're welcome. Yeah.

[A]

And like, whenever we would come out of the pods or these like, weird ass dates, we would always just come to each other.

[C]

Are you okay? Yeah.

[A]

Like, no. No, I'm not. What is going on?

[C]

No, it was scary.

[A]

You know what I want to talk about?

[C]

What?

[A]

Remember all your little ad libs from the show? How you'd be like, yeah, what was.

[C]

Wrong with me in there?

[D]

She does those at home.

[A]

Does she still do it? It's still a thing.

[C]

I was honestly, like, just trying to have as much fun as I could. Cause I thought I was losing my mind.

[A]

We were. We were absolutely losing our mind.

[C]

Do you remember when we would look at each other and just try to say some random word to see if we.

[A]

At the same time.

[C]

Football.

[A]

No, I wasn't gonna say that. I wasn't gonna say that. We did think we had, like, telepathy powers at some point in time.

[C]

No, we did. It was the Ambers.

[A]

Yeah. So then I. I went on the show as Amber, and then production was like, hey, there's another Amber. Do you have a nickname? And I was like, well, yeah, I know, because I'm so cool. Of course I have a nickname.

[C]

Of course you are. I didn't really have one. I was like, ag. I don't know. I was like, I don't feel like that's. People ever call me that. So. Thank you for taking the team on that one.

[A]

Yeah, no, that was okay because people in Charlotte already called me AD So it worked out for the best.

[C]

AD Is cooler than AG but that's.

[A]

Not your last name anymore anyway.

[C]

No.

[D]

Well. Well, someone is taking the process slow of changing her last name.

[C]

I'm very type B and he's very type A. Yeah, it's okay. I still need to change my last name, but in my heart, I'm Amber Brooks.

[A]

Okay. So you guys got married in March.

[C]

We got married in March.

[A]

And Ali and I were so fortunate to get the invite. Yes. So you were talking about your wedding.

[C]

Our wedding. The wedding day. And the wedding weekend was genuinely just so nice to finally be able to relax after all the wedding hoopla. Because it is crazy. I suggest eloping.

[D]

Yeah, it's. It's a mix of emotions. Right. Like, you put in all that work and it. A lot goes into it, but there's nothing better than getting all your different people from different walks of life together. So we enjoyed it.

[C]

Yeah. And two, just like, I knew that the whole reason I even wanted a wedding was, like, the moment, like, walking down the aisle to him. It's just like, never something that I could have ever even imagined. And then being able to say our vows in front of everybody, to just kind of bring it home and bring people closer to us. And our love was really, really special.

[A]

Yalls wedding was so lit. The welcome party was fun.

[D]

The welcome party got out of hand.

[C]

I mean, the welcome party was fun. Just a couple. Many more drinks that I wanted to on the welcome party, it was so.

[A]

Fun, and we had just. Did we announce that we were engaged at that point? I think we had just announced that we were engaged, so we were so happy to be able to come and, like, be all. Yeah. Be ourselves and not have to hide that we were engaged.

[C]

It was the best.

[A]

Yeah, it was so good.

[C]

Y' all were so cute. The welcome party night. Y' all were just so dancing. Ollie's first wedding was spinning her around.

[A]

Wait, wait.

[C]

This was Ollie's first American wedding?

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Yeah, yeah. So that was really fun.

[D]

What an honor. What an honor.

[C]

Oh, gosh.

[A]

So much happened that week. There were so many discoveries that week.

[C]

Yeah. Should we talk about it?

[E]

Nope.

[A]

So let's talk about you guys a little bit. Tell me how you guys met. How did we get here?

[D]

You want me to go, or you want to go?

[C]

You can go. And then I'll. I'll say what I need to say.

[D]

So we met. One of my best friends happened to run in the same friend group as beautiful Amber, and he actually moved into my house with me and threw himself a housewarming party.

[A]

Oh, nice.

[D]

Yeah, it was a great time. Yeah. And she happened to be.

[C]

At that time, I was invited to said housewarming party that I thought was my friend's, but technically it was Tanner's.

[D]

Yeah. And so we met just casually and kind of realized we ran in the same friend groups and then saw each other a few weekends later at another friend's birthday party.

[C]

I think it was, like, a month later.

[D]

Yeah. It wasn't super quick.

[E]

And.

[A]

Yeah.

[D]

Just. Just kind of started vibing, got to know each other a little bit.

[A]

She is a vibe.

[D]

She's. She's good vibes. Yeah. We had just started to kind of get to know each other a little bit when. When I was told that she had been cast on a TV show.

[C]

Yeah.

[D]

Yeah. I mean, that's. You don't prepare yourself for that conversation.

[C]

You definitely don't. Okay, so here's my perspective on the whole thing. I met him at the housewarming party, and, you know, when you get cast for Love is Blind, it's like, six months in advance. You know, It's a process.

[A]

And they tell you to live your life. Don't put anything on pause. Keep going.

[C]

Well, you can't, because you don't know. Like, I think I found out a week and a half before. They were like, all right, pack your bags. You're coming. You're like, oh, no. But anyways, I again met him back up with him. So nothing happened. The first night we met, it was again, just like mutual friends. And then when I ran back into him at the party that we were.

[A]

At, the birthday party, he had on that jacket.

[C]

Right?

[D]

She knows what's up.

[C]

Yeah, she knows. There's this jean jacket that Tanner has. I look good in his channel. That's the one for me. No, but we talked for like three hours and at that point I was like, ew. I don't. I really just like, men don't do it for me because. Well, I'll get into that.

[D]

But yeah, we bonded over a lot of things.

[C]

We bonded over a lot of things. And we hung out for a little bit. And then, yeah, when I got cast, we had only been like, casually dating for maybe a month.

[D]

Definitely not dating. Yeah, we.

[C]

Well, we weren't dating, but you know what I mean? Just like hanging out.

[D]

I had had two friends that went on reality TV shows.

[A]

Oh.

[D]

And I had seen what that did to their lives. And it's just, you know me, like, that's not me. Yeah. I like to keep my name out of everything. Hence my first PODC ass ever. And so I was just like, hey, look, like, if. If you want to go on the show, like, more power to you. I could tell that she actually believed in the process of the show and kind of what it stood for. And so I was just kind of like, look, if you want to go, that's great. It's definitely not something that I want to be a part of. So if you go, I, like, I have no interest in pursuing this any further.

[C]

Okay. I was like, if you're my boyfriend, I won't go. But he wasn't my boyfriend. And so for me not to go too much into my past, but I was in a very long term relationship. I had previously been engaged. I was very much wronged in that relationship. And I just had a lot of. I never really did anything for myself. And I was like, okay, I do believe in the show and obviously it's successful. Right? Hello.

[A]

Well, my. My luck came. Far post.

[C]

But it was a part of the.

[A]

Part of your process and other people's process. It works for a lot people.

[C]

Yeah. And it was inspiring and I really did believe in the concept. So, you know, it was just like our timing was weird. And while I wanted him and us to be in a committed relationship, he's mature enough to be like, no.

[A]

Yeah, it's not going to fly.

[C]

It's not going to fly. We didn't know each other well enough. And for me I'm like, I need to take the leap of faith. There's a reason why that I've been selected to be on this show. And while it's scary, I need to maybe. Maybe my husband is there, maybe Shocker wasn't, and that's okay. And I really thought maybe he would, like, never talk to me again. So.

[D]

Yeah, I didn't plan on it. I mean, I was genuinely, like, I. I was kind of. I told her because I felt like it was. We were definitely interested in each other. But she had said to me. She had said, like, if you want to be my boyfriend, then I won't come on the show. And I just felt like that.

[A]

That was crazy.

[D]

Yeah. But I didn't want to make that decision for her. Like, I felt like it would. If I said okay, I feel like she might have regretted it.

[A]

Yeah. Or the resentment.

[D]

I didn't want to be a part of that. And so I basically said, look, it's a cool opportunity. It's not for me, but if it's for you and you feel the need to go, then please go, but I will not be here when you get back.

[C]

Respectfully, just. Cutthroat. Yeah.

[D]

How was it from your perspective, knowing that and then seeing her in that environment?

[A]

There was so many conversations that we had off camera about, like. Because I think early on, Amber knew that nobody there was for her, like, early on. And I could kind of sense, like, not that I never got the sense that she has a man back home, but I could sense that she knew nobody here was it.

[C]

That's. Yeah.

[A]

And she was ready to go.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

I couldn't tell why. I was like, is there somebody we all thought, did she have a man? Like, blah, blah, blah. But she knew very early on that nobody there was for her.

[C]

Yeah. I will say, like, I do wear my heart on my sleeve, and I really did believe in the process. So I really tried when I was there, I really tried. And every date that I went on, and this is, like, no shade to anyone that I went on dates with, but I just. It just didn't work for me. Again, going back to my past, I was just like, this just doesn't feel like anyone behind that wall can be anybody they want to be. They could tell me. And I think some did tell me, like, some lies just to keep it interesting. Right. And so I kind of felt that. And every time I sat down, like, for the interview to talk about who I was interested in, I was like, what's it mean? I just, like, I didn't know. It was kind of dumbfounded. I was really overwhelmed by the whole process. I think what love is blind did do for me, obviously, our friendship, because you're amazing and I love you. Very grateful for that. But also, it just made me realize a lot of things about myself. And they even tell you, like, when you get there, this, like, you know, may not work out for you, but we hope that it does, and you may learn something about yourself. I think I just, like, a lot of my past trauma came out while I was there, and obviously my exit. Right. We won't go too far into it, but just when that situation happened, I was just like, okay, yeah, that was my. This isn't the place for me. My person isn't here. Yeah, I need to go.

[A]

She looked at me, she's like, I think I'm a head out. Yeah, I know.

[C]

I gotta go. Yeah, I gotta go. It's time for me to get out of here.

[A]

Yeah. And that was the best thing. That was the absolute best thing.

[C]

I felt so, so relieved when I left.

[A]

I know. After you left and then the show aired and then the Internet kind of picked up your. I don't know, you just became a hot topic. This relationship became a hot topic. Yeah. Is there anything that you want to clear up about what?

[C]

Yeah, I mean, the hot topic was. Yeah, no, I mean, our timeline was our timeline. And I think our story is so beautiful and everyone's journey is different, but I didn't have a boyfriend when I went on the show. I was very much single. I believe in love is blind. And it, like I said, it's worked for other people. It's brought other people to wonderful places. So I stayed true to myself and went on it and did what was best for me. And my husband clearly wasn't there. So my journey was. I came home, reconnected.

[D]

She. Yeah, I genuinely never planned your man back. Yeah.

[C]

100% begged. Yeah.

[D]

Because I. I didn't ever plan on talking to her again. Like, I meant that I. I didn't have any intention of us.

[C]

When he says stuff like this, he really means it, like, to the core. So I was shocked when he answered my phone.

[A]

Yeah.

[D]

I'm glad she fought for it, though, because it made us stronger. It's. It's weird. Like, you have a whole year, a year and a half of, like, you don't think about it because I. I still haven't watched your guys season especially, but, like, it then. Then it airs a year and a half later and, like, a lot happens in A year, right. You start dating. I think we had moved in at that point. Like, we went pretty quickly.

[A]

And then for someone that didn't want any bits of it.

[C]

Yeah, he got some bits.

[A]

Yeah, I got a few bits, unfortunately.

[D]

Got a little bit.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

I honestly, I didn't expect. Honestly, really, that's. It was just the unknown in that year and some change to even be a part of it at all. But obviously, I think I knew in the back of my mind it was a little bit of part of your story.

[D]

Those are hardcom. Those are weird too, because the conversation's like, she never lied. But she was like, I don't know. Because she didn't know. Right.

[A]

She was like, no, what's going to be.

[D]

Because she led with. Right when she was begging, she was like, I'm not going to be on it at all. When she was begging, she was like, you won't crazy. She's like, you won't see me on it. Like, nothing. I'm not on it. I'm not in anyone's story. And then, like, as the months go on, she's like, well, like, I'm really close with AD So I might be on her story a little bit. And then it's like, well, actually, no, I was in, like, this thing, and I was like, so you're going to be on the show? Because when we got back together, I was like, okay, she's not gonna be on it.

[A]

Yeah.

[D]

Like, this is cool. Yeah, I don't want that. So that was tough.

[C]

But we got through and we're here. We're married. Yeah.

[D]

You guys into our lives, so that's always fun.

[C]

Wouldn't change a thing.

[A]

Yeah, Yeah, I would change a few things.

[C]

That's okay.

[A]

I probably changed.

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

Okay. Tanner, you opened up a pickleball restaurant called Tipsy Pickle. Tell us about it. And how did you decide to start this new business?

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

So congratulations, by the way. Thank you.

[D]

Thank you. So a buddy of mine and I, I had just exited a company and was kind of looking for my next project and was in a fortunate opposition where I could kind of pick and choose to do something fun. And it was a drunk idea after a lot of bad ones.

[A]

Sounds about right.

[D]

We landed on a good one. And yeah, it was. It was something that we knew we wanted to do something together and figured out that this was a cool opportunity from a business side, but also like a work life balance. Do something that excites you. And it was a new challenge for me. So, yeah, we opened Tipsy Pickle in February, and it's been going very well.

[A]

We love Tipsy Pickle.

[D]

It's fun having Tanner.

[C]

Yeah. He's so smart.

[A]

Are you so proud?

[C]

I'm like, he really is the best thing that's ever happened to me. And just. He's so inspiring, and he challenges me to think out of the box and just doing something like that, of having no experience on opening up a bar, restaurant, pickleball place, and just being like, I'm going to do it, and finding the means to. To be able to do something as incredible as that and then to see also it flourish. Mind you, we also opened this up right before our wedding. Right.

[A]

You guys had a year.

[C]

It's been wild. Yeah, it's been wild, but it's so fun. And that's what make life so fun with you, because you're just. We're just always doing something.

[A]

Yeah, you are.

[C]

We really are.

[A]

Speaking of what's next for you guys as a couple. I know we're on our 12th renovation of that house.

[D]

We were just talking about your belly.

[C]

Oh, Tanner's so ready. Yeah. Tanner loves a pregnant belly.

[A]

Oh, God.

[D]

I think. Well, I think. Yeah. I mean, there's never a right time to have kids, right? There's never a right time. You're always putting it all.

[C]

No.

[A]

Long time out. We went to dinner. Was it the night that you guys first met Ollie? We went to hawkers or whatever. Hawkers. Yeah. And I'm laughing because this was such a reverse conversation. And it was like, one was ready when one was not ready. Tanner was very ready. Very much like, give me the baby tonight if we could. And she was like, I don't know. And then I pop up with my news, and I'm like, hey, please don't leave me behind. Yeah.

[C]

Can you please help?

[A]

Can you help? Come do this with me.

[C]

Give me a friend.

[A]

Yeah. And now it's kind of like, mm.

[D]

Every week is different for her.

[C]

Yeah, it is. Every week is different. I think, honestly, the business and then the wedding was so overwhelming. I can imagine that. And they're in the first renovation that I was just like, I want to enjoy. Okay, so here's the thing. I waited a really long time for this type of relationship. I never thought it would happen for me. And it is just so sacred and special to me that I get to experience this type of peace and love with him, that I just want to cherish it as much as I can, because I know while it's a beautiful thing and it's probably one of the best things that we'll ever do together is have a child together. We'll never get just us time back. So that's just where I keep going back and forth, but there's never a right time. So maybe, like, halfway through half renovation, too. Yeah, we'll start trying.

[D]

Yeah, we're almost there.

[C]

Yeah, we're almost there. Yeah, he's ready.

[D]

I get that, though. Like, we did get to. We got to go to Italy a few times and Ireland and travel. Europe.

[C]

Yeah, we're travel bugs.

[D]

And so I think a few more like, big trips like that, which we're starting to plan, and then. Yeah, and then we'll kind of lock in, pull the goalie. Fire him off.

[A]

My God.

[C]

Yep. He said it.

[D]

Yep.

[C]

We'll get there when we get there.

[A]

I love that. I love that. I love it.

[C]

Yeah, I love it. That's probably what's next.

[D]

Yeah.

[C]

Okay.

[A]

Who, besides me, are you still close with from the show?

[C]

I feel like you really are really my only. Yeah, yeah, of course. I'm still, like, friendly with everyone. Right. But, yeah, you're. You've always been, like, bestie. For real.

[A]

Yeah. Are you happy with your decision to leave the pods?

[C]

Yeah. Yeah. Yes, yes. I'm happy for all the successful things that came from our season. Every. All the girls were great from our season. Right. Like, I think we all got along while we were there, but everyone clicked with who they were gonna click with afterwards, and I think we've just always been in sync, obviously. Cause we're Ambers.

[A]

Duh, duh, duh.

[C]

But, yeah, I'm happy with that.

[A]

Was there any part of your journey that wasn't shown that you wish the audience could have seen? I know.

[C]

Oh.

[A]

Day one, Amber had a list of songs.

[C]

Oh, my God. So embarrassing. I asked, you know what's so funny? We don't talk about this much, obviously, but I was like, do you want to know how silly I am? He already knows I'm silly. But I was like. I had a whole, like, thing when I walked into the pods. Yeah.

[A]

She had icebreaker.

[C]

I made Ben sing back to me. I had. She made four songs.

[A]

She would do, like. Like, a lyric from a song and make the person fill in the blank.

[C]

And I was like, you can't. You can't speak it. You have to sing it back.

[A]

Yeah. So that's what her first day of dates was. Just forcing people to sing. Like, she would be like, pour some sugar on it.

[C]

Yes, I did.

[A]

That was one of them.

[C]

How do you remember that?

[A]

I know.

[C]

I'm trying to think. I think Katie.

[A]

And I was like, you have a plan. And I just sat there and I was like, am I missing something? Did I not get have a plan?

[C]

I was bonkers in there. I was really just like, okay, that's funny. Isn't that crazy?

[D]

I knew you would appreciate it. That's funny. Isn't it funny? That's funny.

[C]

Yeah, that's hilarious that you remember that.

[A]

No, I remember. I probably could pull out four more songs that you did.

[C]

Katy Perry was one of them. Yeah, I think Rihanna was one of them, too. Do you ever feel like a plastic bag? And then there was a drift into.

[A]

The wind and none of the guys knew this.

[C]

Wait, no. Some of them ate it up. I can't remember who. Who did, but, yeah, I got some. I got some voices. Some were confused.

[A]

What a time.

[C]

What a time.

[A]

What is your biggest takeaway from the love is blind experience?

[C]

I've kind of always known who I was, but just, like, sticking true to, like, my gut feeling of what I should do in certain moments, staying true to myself.

[A]

Yeah, I'm glad you trusted your gut, and I'm glad you skedaddled.

[C]

Bye.

[A]

I was sad. I was so sad, but I was.

[C]

So sad to leave you, too, but, like, it wasn't fair for me to stay when I knew that my connections weren't strong enough.

[A]

No. As soon as I came home, we were, like, on your birthday party, like, we were just clicked back up. Like, there was no time.

[C]

100%. Yeah.

[A]

No time missed.

[C]

You were my strongest connection. You remember when we were like, have you ever had. Have you ever had two girls fall in love? Yeah.

[A]

Then that's probably when things started falling apart, because we really stopped and made this a thing at one point.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

Did you guys watch the most recent season of Love is Blind?

[D]

We did.

[C]

We did. That's Tanner's first season he's ever watched, right?

[D]

Yeah.

[C]

Are you scared?

[D]

I am scared.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

That was wild.

[D]

It was something.

[E]

Wait, what?

[A]

Tell me, tell me thoughts. Hot takes.

[E]

Who do we love?

[A]

Who do we not love?

[C]

I loved watching. We both loved watching Jordan and Megan's story.

[D]

That dynamic was really interesting.

[C]

Yeah. I had hope for them.

[D]

I think for me, one thing and I feel really strongly about this is, like, when you find someone that you love that you want to spend your life with, like, lifestyle and whatnot is a huge part of it. And so seeing that that kind of unfolded, I kind of related to both of them in that sense because, like, when you move in with somebody, like, Things change.

[A]

Yeah.

[D]

Like, I know y' all moved in together and, like, we moved in and there's challenge. There's always challenges. Like, no one's perfect. Like, marriage is hard, living together is hard. Lifestyle changes are hard. And so that's kind of what I related to most. And kind of seeing them go through that, I felt like I was like, oh, I kind of get both of their perspectives, to be honest. And so that was interesting.

[C]

Yeah, yeah. It's so funny. It's like the name behind the show, right? Love is Blind. Like, that could be true. Like, I think it was true for some of the couples, but lifestyle is lifestyle.

[E]

Yeah.

[C]

You know what I mean? People like to live a certain way.

[A]

Especially at this big age. Like, you're not turning it all around at 30 something years old, right?

[C]

Yeah, exactly.

[A]

It is what it is.

[C]

It is what it is, but it is important. It's like, okay, you can still be attracted to someone with never seeing them, and that part of the show is true. But I think it's great that they do the live with each other phase because, I mean, personalities can mesh and you can be friends with someone, but. But as far as a partner that you're choosing forever. Yeah, that's important.

[A]

Was there anyone that you guys were like, what's happening here?

[C]

A lot. Yeah. Who?

[D]

Several times, Most of the time, yeah.

[A]

The shock on your face.

[D]

I've never been in this, so, like, seeing, like. I don't know. I don't know if you think love is blind, but for me, I mean, I'm married to a model, so it's. I don't think love is blind. I think physical attraction is very important. So, yeah, like, it's hindsight's 20 20. We get to see what both of them look like when they're having these conversations. So you're just sitting there scratching your head, like, not even, like, because someone's attractive or unattractive. It's just like, I can tell that you are not going to be into the person that you think you're into kind of thing.

[C]

Yeah, it was very evident. There was like, certain people that just like. What was his name?

[D]

The funny one for me, was it Joe's reaction when he saw his match? I was like, look, I get it. Like, you were talking to somebody behind a wall. You probably had an image in your head and just because that wasn't it, it'd be hard to not react.

[C]

I never. I never had an image in my head when I was in the pods. I think that you can't But I feel like probably.

[D]

What do you think they looked like? You just.

[A]

You just make up something I didn't even make up. He's just kind of. I don't know, just vibes, really.

[C]

So I can see, like, him being, like, it was hard for him. And I will say, like, maybe. And again, there's so much that they don't show.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

So I try to give everybody the benefit of the doubt. Right. That's just the. The me. But he tried. He really, I did think fall in love with her, but just like, he couldn't make that connection or something. And she's so sweet. She's so sweet and so beautiful. And I just like, he was, like, trying to make it work. And you could see him struggling, but that just. Just didn't. Yeah, just didn't work. And then. Who was the other one? Nick. And is it Annie?

[D]

He was. He was something.

[C]

What do you mean?

[A]

Tell me more.

[D]

He's just quite theatrical and overly flamboyant in certain movements and things that were quite funny to watch.

[C]

I don't know. I think he would just. It seemed like. It seemed like he was in. From other videos I've seen, it seemed like some cast. Funny castmates, like, didn't really like him.

[A]

Like him.

[C]

Because he always.

[D]

When Joe was like, he seems like a good guy, but not my kind of guy.

[E]

Yeah, he did.

[A]

He's like.

[D]

He seemed like a super nice guy. Yeah, he seemed like a super nice guy.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

But, like, I don't know.

[A]

Not my guy. Yeah.

[D]

Yeah.

[C]

No, he seemed. He seemed like a nice guy, I guess how the edit he got. But clearly there was some, like, tension there. But they said he was calculated or something. I think was the word.

[E]

Yeah.

[C]

And then Annie, I don't know, she just. That was her also just, like, really wanting it. Maybe he was, like, saying more stuff.

[A]

To her that we didn't get to see.

[C]

That we didn't get to see. There's just so much that's taken out of context.

[D]

That's the one thing for me that she's kind of explained to me. And, like, when your guys season aired, obviously I never watched it and I didn't know kind of what it was all about. And even when, like, we would go to events and things and I would meet other people, it was so funny to me that both of y' all would always be like, oh, they got a good edit, or they got a bad at it, because there's so much that we don't see. And as, like, someone who's so out of it, I was like, yeah, that kind of makes sense. Like, you guys know everything. And, like, the general public gets, like, very small.

[A]

Right.

[C]

You don't know what's going on. You really don't know the meat and potatoes of it all.

[A]

No, you don't. You just get the bones.

[C]

Exactly.

[A]

I don't know.

[C]

What was your take on this?

[D]

Who did you like?

[A]

You know, who did I like?

[D]

And then more importantly, who did I not like?

[A]

I liked that. Everyone showed up and participated.

[C]

They did. Everyone tried to make it work.

[A]

Yeah. I think all the women. I don't know. Maybe I'm biased. I just really just. I always gravitate towards the women on these shows for some reason. Like, I just can see a little bit more for some of the women, authenticity than I can in the men.

[C]

Sure.

[A]

You know, I don't trust men anyway. I don't really like them, except for my same.

[D]

He's the best.

[A]

So I'm always skeptical about the guys, and then I just gravitate towards the women. I just, you know, I just always am rooting for them. Obviously, I'm rooting for KB and everything that she has going for her.

[D]

And she seemed really nice.

[A]

She's so sweet. I'm always rooting for love. I always want people to win, and I always want love to win in the end. But again, like, because I was a part of it and we experienced it, it's so hard to get to, like, watch it, to live it, and then to watch it a year and some change later, you're not that person. You're watching it. The world's tearing you apart.

[C]

It's just.

[A]

It's hard. This is the hardest time.

[C]

Yeah, I know. They're really going through it right now. That's why I struggle. Like, when I watched it, obviously, I was like, what is going on? But then I took myself back to the place of just, like, being so overwhelmed when everything comes out, so vulnerable. I hope you guys are okay right now. Like, I hope y' all are good. Yeah, it's tough. And some of those edits are tough, too. But it. Yeah, it was a wild season. Yeah. Yeah, yeah, for sure.

[D]

I thought for someone who hasn't, like, seen much of it. And I did watch Perfect Match, which I'm a huge fan of because of YouTube.

[C]

Yes, we did tune in for that.

[D]

One, but I just felt like there was a lot of, like, authenticity this season of, like, real reactions that, like, people will judge. But I don't know. I kind of appreciate that. Like, you see Real reaction. Like that's how they're feeling.

[C]

Yeah. Yeah. I do think that everyone really did try. Yeah, I think that was conveyed. Now was the puzzle piece correct? I don't think so.

[A]

I think it was just a big mismatch and it showed.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

At the weddings, like it just everything. No one was meant to be.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

No one.

[C]

It was KB and Edmund was sad to see. I. I was kind of, you know, hoping they would, but there was a lot of tension leading up.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

It was wild to watch it. As someone who's not from this world.

[A]

You can go back and like cleanse your palette and watch a different season. Maybe like. Well, they're all chaotic.

[D]

I'm probably never going to watch y'. All.

[A]

No, don't.

[D]

Yeah, I want to watch uk.

[A]

Yeah, watch uk.

[D]

Cuz I'm a big fan of. Big fan of Freddy from the Perfect Match. Yeah.

[C]

Yeah. We loved watching Perfect Match cuz we already knew obviously that you guys were in love. So that was just like a treat for us.

[D]

It was cool to watch it.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

To see you guys fall in love. Cuz I saw you. Yeah.

[A]

I FaceTimed her while I was in tulum.

[C]

Yep.

[A]

With him. With him.

[D]

First time we really got to talk to him before.

[C]

Do you remember that though? Before you like. I met up with her right before she went and filmed Perfect Match like two days before. Right. Life was chaotic. You were like, I don't know. And I was like, yeah. I was like, I feel like this could be good. I was like, I have a good feeling about this. And I think we talked about potentials of who could be there and I just had a feeling. And so when you FaceTime me, I was like, wow, he's so cute.

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

Are y' all watching any other shows as a couple?

[D]

The new one on Netflix that we really like. The new season that just came out.

[C]

Oh, nobody wants.

[D]

Nobody wants this.

[A]

That's not season two.

[C]

Oh, now. Have you seen season one?

[D]

Yeah, we really like it.

[C]

I think it's really good that shows so relatable has a really good script and I think like you can take meaningful like life lessons from it.

[A]

You know what we're stuck on 60 days in.

[D]

Oh, wow. Really?

[C]

What is that he got me on?

[A]

It's like an ex social experiment where they bring like regular people off the street and put them in prison for 60 days.

[C]

I would die. No.

[A]

It's so bad. It's so funny. No. One day. One day one. Get me out of here.

[C]

We'd have to watch this now.

[D]

It's crazy.

[A]

Yeah. I don't think they have any recent seasons. I think the most recent season is, like five years old.

[D]

Yeah, that's an older show.

[A]

Yeah. Maybe even 10 years. I don't know. But he sucked me into it and now we're watching that.

[C]

Okay, maybe that'll be our next one also.

[D]

Wait, you haven't seen season two of Nobody Wants this?

[A]

No, not yet.

[D]

They have a Love is Blonde shout out on that.

[C]

They do. I did hear.

[A]

I did hear.

[C]

We were actually watching it last night and they said.

[A]

And I was like, oh, that's so funny. I think that I saw a snippet on Tick Tock that Lauren, I think, from two seasons ago or something.

[D]

Yeah, that sounds.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Oh, really?

[D]

I didn't know who the girl was, but.

[C]

Yeah.

[D]

Yeah.

[C]

Oh, I missed that part. I must have been looking down.

[A]

That's funny.

[D]

Eating Thai food.

[C]

Eating Thai food. Yeah. We were in bed last night eating Thai food, watching Nobody Wants Us. It's fantastic. What dreams are made of.

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

We had a trip to McDonald's because baby wanted fries and Sprite. Yeah, you did.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I was like, honey, can we go get fries? He's like, okay, let's go.

[C]

Of course.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Gotta give baby What?

[A]

Shout out. McDonald's.

[D]

Shout out. McDonald's.

[C]

Shout out. Ollie taking her there.

[A]

So we. We know what you're up to as a couple. Yes. Do you have anything coming up, Amber, as an individual?

[C]

Yeah, actually, I'm starting a matchmaking podcast.

[A]

Oh, okay.

[C]

Yes.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

So a lot of my. We live in Charlotte still. A lot of my friends are always, like, asking me, do you have any single friends? You know, again, I want everyone to experience the type of love that we have. And I was just like, you know what? Why don't I just take matters into my own hands? Because the dating stories that I hear are horrendous. I mean, we've tried it, all right? We got to where we needed to go, but, yeah, it's called Crafting chemistry, period. We filmed a couple episodes. They're not just out yet, but hopefully they'll be out.

[D]

Yeah.

[C]

Shortly.

[D]

It's really cool.

[B]

It's awesome.

[A]

Yeah. What is the concept? What is it? Why? Where'd you come up with that name?

[C]

So I love challenging myself and doing something new. So I'm making people do crafts while I interview them about their dating life and what they want in a partner. And just some, like, random fun questions. And then we have a website where someone can go fill out, like, basically like a profile type thing of why they want to go on a date with the person that I interviewed. Or they are single and looking for love and they want to either come on the show or they just want me to keep them in mind.

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

If you need any experts, you know, we've been married for some time now.

[C]

Exactly.

[A]

We can give some really solid advice.

[C]

Calling you right up on how to.

[A]

Keep a, you know, longevity in your.

[C]

100%. 100%. So, yeah, I'm excited. It'll be fun.

[A]

Tanner, what's your role in all of this?

[D]

Right now I'm video editor, Tanner's editor. My whole thing was just like, Amber's so talented. Like, she is so good at anything she does and she's been doing, like, sales for a while and she, like, crushes it, obviously. And so I was just kind of like, hey, you need to do something. Like, you're too talented. Creative outlet, something for yourself kind of thing. And so, yeah, my role is anything that she needs me to be at the moment. It's video.

[C]

He's so supportive. He's the best.

[A]

I love that.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

And obviously I've seen you kind of take on a few roles at Tipsy Pickle.

[C]

Yes.

[A]

One day I come and she's serving.

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

Bringing up drinks.

[C]

She's running around. Yes.

[D]

It's an all hands on deck kind of thing at Tipsy Pickle, when we get crazy. So it's nice to have her supporting.

[C]

Yeah. Like, if you're ever in Charlotte, anyone who's listening, please come visit us at Tipsy Pickle.

[D]

Yeah. Tipsy Pickle, Charlotte, North Carolina, period. Give us a. Give us a try.

[C]

Yeah. Come play pickleball. Fun fact, I've never played pickleball. Okay. You'll have to come back. You've been to Tipsy Pickle.

[A]

I've been a few times. Yeah.

[C]

You'll have to come back and maybe we'll. We'll play and then we can have.

[A]

Once I have my baby mascot. What is the baby onesie?

[C]

Say a little tipsy. Yeah.

[D]

We get her in that.

[C]

Yeah. Definitely have to get her in that. But, yeah, no, I have. I've. I've served before. Gotta. Gotta support.

[A]

You gotta support.

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

I love that and I love you guys and I'm so happy that you guys are here in la.

[C]

We love you too.

[A]

Because they knew I wasn't coming back to Charlotte anytime soon. No, she, like, harassed me my brain again. Like, you're scrambled eggs. I'm scrambled. Like. And she was like, I'm coming to la. I'm coming. I'M like, never replied about it.

[C]

No, she didn't. I had to, like, bully her and, like, question the message and be like, hello. Hello.

[D]

Even Tanner had to start texting Ollie. I was like, all right.

[C]

Even Tanner started texting Ollie, how do.

[D]

You know what weekend we're coming?

[A]

And I was just like, yeah.

[C]

Just.

[A]

Yeah, yeah.

[C]

He goes, have you. Has she texted you back yet? And I was like, no. He's like, I'm texting.

[D]

Like, I'm just booking this flight. We're coming out.

[C]

And here we are.

[D]

We had to see y' all before you brought life into this world.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

They're gonna go see the nursery today.

[C]

Yeah, we're excited. You're so beautiful.

[A]

Oh, thank you. You're so beautiful.

[C]

Oh, I love you.

[A]

I love you.

[C]

I just love her so much.

[A]

I almost cried a little bit in the beginning, just seeing you sitting here and just.

[C]

Just how full circle is this, though, meant to be?

[A]

It makes sense. Makes sense.

[C]

I'm so proud of you and all of. All of you that you have accomplished. You're such a good person.

[A]

Thank you. Thank you.

[C]

I think people need to know that.

[A]

Thank you.

[D]

I was pretense that when y' all didn't win the Perfect Match.

[C]

Yeah, we were.

[D]

That's the most upset I've been in a long time.

[C]

No, that was based on a TV show.

[D]

I was shook. There's just no way. We both were like, I was rattled.

[A]

Yeah.

[D]

That was crazy.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

But it worked out for the best.

[C]

You did when.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

You won. Yeah.

[D]

You definitely won.

[C]

And now you're married and married.

[A]

Married is crazy. Married is insane.

[C]

Married is awesome.

[D]

It looks good.

[C]

It does. You guys look are, like, so magazine worthy.

[D]

Cinderella.

[A]

Cinderella. Okay, let's wrap this up.

[C]

Yes.

[A]

We can't do too many insiders. Everybody's gonna be like, anyway, we love you. Yeah.

[C]

Thank you for having us.

[A]

Of course. And thank you guys for joining me here on the sofas of what's the Reality? Yes. And thank you guys for joining me for another episode. Be sure to follow us on all social platforms at what's the Reality? Pod and I will see you next Wednesday.

[D]

Bye.

[A]

What's the Reality? What's the Reality?