Podcasts > U Up? > If It’s Giving Boyfriend, Just Say That

If It’s Giving Boyfriend, Just Say That

By Betches

In this episode of U Up?, Jared and Jordana reflect on the impact their advice has had on listeners like Rob, who gifts them tokens of appreciation for helping him navigate personal growth. The hosts also share details about Jordana's upcoming tropical getaway and Jared's memorable yet bizarre birthday celebration.

The conversation explores the significance of introducing romantic partners to parents. Jordana questions the need for parental approval, while Jared acknowledges the role of close family bonds in relationships. They examine the nuances of this social milestone and conclude that family happiness should take precedence over external validation.

If It’s Giving Boyfriend, Just Say That

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If It’s Giving Boyfriend, Just Say That

1-Page Summary

Updating Advice for "Rob"

Rob reaches out to Jared and Jordana to express his gratitude for their advice, which has greatly influenced his personal growth and fundraising success. He particularly mentions how attending Jared's comedy show enlightened his perspective on his relationship with his ex and contributed to a profound marathon fundraiser. Rob gifts Jared and Jordana custom keychains emblazoned with the phrase "Betches UUP" and the Boston Marathon logo, incorporating his runner number, 143, as a token of his appreciation.

Jordana's Impending Vacation

Jordana cannot contain her excitement about her upcoming vacation to St. Kitts. She longs for the island's sun-soaked beaches, a pleasure she hasn't enjoyed since August. She and her partner, Mike, plan to stay for five nights. Jared shares fond memories of a similar trip and recommends a renowned fish restaurant. Flight plans are set; Jordana is flying direct from New York via JetBlue, despite past issues with the airline, aiming to indulge in the island's offerings by noon. With St. Kitts being a somewhat random choice, Jared suggests the direct route may be a strategy to boost tourism. Jordana fantastically muses about opening a Starbucks there one day.

Jared's Recent Birthday Celebrations

Jared recounts a memorable birthday at a trendy restaurant called Cocoduck, known for its fried chicken, caviar, and high-end coleslaw, accompanied by an impressive champagne selection. He finds a spot at the busy bar, comparing the staff's friendly service to that of Trader Joe's. An unexpected highlight is meeting a woman with the same birthday, leading to an exchange of numbers and a celebratory photo. However, joy turns to shock when her hair catches fire from the birthday candle as she leans in for a kiss. Despite her attempts to downplay the incident after a quick response from the staff reduces the flames, the ordeal, marked by the smell of singed hair, is a stark reminder of the evening's events.

Debate Over Parents Meeting New Partners

Jared and Jordana dissect the significance of introducing a partner to one's parents. Jordana is skeptical of the necessity of parental approval, suggesting it may reflect a lack of confidence in one's own choices. They discuss how close parental bonds can affect personal independence in dating. They explore an email sender's experience, feeling a twinge of guilt when a serious relationship, once involving a family introduction, ends. The hosts agree that parental meetings are not needed before a commitment, though Jared acknowledges its importance in his social life cycle. They conclude that family members generally seek their happiness, and the emphasis on parental input may be overvalued.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • St. Kitts is a Caribbean island known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and luxury resorts. It might be considered a somewhat random choice for a vacation destination because it is not as commonly visited as more mainstream tourist spots. The island offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path travel experience.
  • Cocoduck is a trendy restaurant known for its unique menu items like fried chicken, caviar, and high-end coleslaw. The restaurant offers an impressive selection of champagne and is popular for its ambiance and service. During a birthday celebration at Cocoduck, an incident occurred where a woman's hair caught fire from a birthday candle, leading to a memorable yet unexpected moment.
  • Jared met a woman who shared the same birthday as him. This shared birthday led to them exchanging contact numbers.
  • In the debate over parental approval in relationships, the discussion revolves around the significance of introducing a partner to one's parents. Some believe that seeking parental approval may indicate a lack of confidence in one's own choices, while others see it as an important step in the relationship process. The conversation also touches on how familial relationships can impact personal independence in dating. Ultimately, the hosts conclude that while parental input can be valuable, it may not be necessary before making a commitment in a relationship.

Counterarguments

  • While Rob's gesture of gifting custom keychains is thoughtful, it could be argued that such gifts, while personalized, may not hold significant value or utility for the recipients.
  • Jordana's excitement for her vacation is understandable, but the decision to fly with an airline that has previously caused issues might be seen as overlooking past experiences in favor of convenience.
  • The suggestion that the direct flight to St. Kitts may be a strategy to boost tourism is speculative and may not consider other factors such as airline route planning or passenger demand.
  • The idea of opening a Starbucks in St. Kitts could be criticized for potentially undermining local businesses and culture in favor of a global chain.
  • Jared's birthday celebration at a trendy restaurant might be seen as indulgent, and the incident with the woman's hair catching fire could be viewed as a reminder of the potential hazards of such celebrations.
  • The skepticism about the necessity of parental approval in relationships may not take into account cultural or familial contexts where such approval is important or even necessary.
  • The view that seeking parental approval may reflect a lack of confidence could be challenged by the argument that it can also be a sign of respect for the parents' opinions and experiences.
  • The conclusion that parental meetings are not needed before a commitment might not consider the benefits of early family introductions for some individuals, such as gaining a broader understanding of a partner's background and values.
  • The assertion that family members generally seek their happiness and that the emphasis on parental input may be overvalued does not account for the complex dynamics in some families where parental input is highly influential or even expected.

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If It’s Giving Boyfriend, Just Say That

Updating Advice for "Rob"

Rob reaches out to Jared and Jordana, grateful for their guidance, which not only helped him navigate his personal circumstances but also supported his fundraising efforts.

Follow-up from previous advice seeker "Rob"

Rob has written a heartfelt letter to Jared and Jordana expressing his thanks. He acknowledges the positive impact their advice has had on him, particularly noting how attending Jared's comedy show played a role in his journey with his ex and his successful marathon fundraiser.

Furthermore, Rob showcases his gratitude by gifting Jared and Jordana custom keychains. These toke ...

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Updating Advice for "Rob"

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Rob sought guidance from Jared and Jordana, who provided advice that helped him in personal matters and with his fundraising. Rob expressed his gratitude by writing a letter and giving custom keychains to Jared and Jordana. The keychains featured a reference to "Betches UUP" and the Boston Marathon logo, with a special running number, 143, that held sentimental value.
  • Rob's personal circumstances involve his past relationship with his ex and his involvement in a successful marathon fundraiser. These experiences have been significant in shaping his journey and the impact of the advice he received from Jared and Jordana. The text suggests that attending Jared's comedy show played a role in Rob's interactions with his ex and his fundraising success.
  • The connection between attending Jared's comedy show and Rob's journey with his ex and fundraiser is that the comedy show experience somehow influenced Rob's personal growth and relationships, leading to positive outcomes in both his romantic life and fundraising efforts. The specifics of how the comedy show impacted Rob's journey are not explicitly detailed in the ...

Counterarguments

...

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If It’s Giving Boyfriend, Just Say That

Jordana's Impending Vacation

Jordana's excitement for her upcoming vacation to St. Kitts is palpable as she discusses her plans and the logistics of her trip with her co-host Jared.

Jordana discussing her vacation plans to visit St. Kitts

Including details about the island and travel logistics

Jordana and her partner, Mike, are set to enjoy a five-night stay in St. Kitts. She looks forward to basking in the sun, a delight she hasn't experienced since August. The prospect of visiting the island's beaches is a key draw for her.

During the discussion, Jared recalls a similar Caribbean trip where they visited nearby Nevis, known for attracting celebrities. He shares memories of taking a booze cruise and spending chaotic times at the pool of a luxurious hotel.

Jared brings up a great fish restaurant in St. Kitts he has enjoyed on his family's multiple visits to the island. Revisiting some of these enjoyable experiences seems to be on the agenda for Jordana's trip.

Jordana is flying direct from New York with JetBlue, which, despite her past negative experiences with the airline, is the only one offering a direct route to St. Kitts. She's aiming f ...

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Jordana's Impending Vacation

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • St. Kitts is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and lush landscapes. The island offers a mix of relaxation and adventure activities, making it appealing to a wide range of travelers seeking a tropical getaway. St. Kitts' proximity to Nevis, another well-known Caribbean island, adds to its allure as visitors can easily explore both destinations. The island's strategic efforts to boost tourism, such as establishing direct flight routes, contribute to its growing popularity among tourists.
  • Nevis is a neighboring island to St. Kitts in the Caribbean. It is known for its luxurious resorts, attracting celebrities seeking privacy and upscale experiences. The island offers exclusive accommodations, pristine beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for high-profile individuals looking to unwind away from the public eye.
  • JetBlue is an American low-cost airline known for its domestic and international flights. In the past, the airline has faced criticism for flight delays, cancellations, and customer service issues. These negative experiences have led some passengers to have reservations about flying with JetBlue.
  • St. Kitts, like many other tourist ...

Counterarguments

  • While Jordana is excited for her vacation, it's possible that her expectations may not align with the reality of the destination.
  • A five-night stay may not be enough to fully experience all that St. Kitts has to offer, including its cultural and historical sites.
  • Basking in the sun and visiting beaches are common vacation activities, but they may not appeal to everyone, and some might argue for a more diverse set of activities.
  • Jared's memories of a booze cruise and a luxurious hotel pool might not resonate with travelers seeking a more authentic or less tourist-centric experience.
  • The recommendation of a great fish restaurant is subjective, and other visitors might have different dining preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Flying with JetBlue, despite past negative experiences, could be seen as a compromise of comfort for convenience, and some might argue for considering alternative airlines or routes.
  • Aiming for an early flight to hit the beach by noon is a specific preference that might not be shared by all travelers, who may prioritize rest after a flight or have different plans upon arrival.
  • The choice of St. Kitts being somewhat random could be ...

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If It’s Giving Boyfriend, Just Say That

Jared's Recent Birthday Celebrations

Jared shares an eventful story about his birthday dinner at a trendy restaurant and an unexpected meeting that led to a fiery surprise.

Story about Jared's birthday dinner alone at a trendy restaurant

Jared decided to celebrate his birthday at a place called Cocoduck, the newly opened sister restaurant of the popular Korean steakhouse Coat, where reservations are highly sought after. Cocoduck, a fried chicken and caviar restaurant, features a course meal complete with high-end coleslaw and an extensive champagne menu, providing customers with a curated, high-end dining experience.

Despite the packed restaurant, Jared was able to secure a seat at the bar. He likens the staff's positive demeanor to the famously cheerful employees of Trader Joe's, indicating a pleasant atmosphere.

And meeting a woman with the same birthday

While dining alone at the bar, Jared befriended a woman who was also celebrating her birthday on the same day. They struck up a conversation, exchanged numbers, and decided to commemorate their shared birthday with a picture.

Including the funny incident of her hair catching fire from birthday candles

However, the celebratory photo op took a sudden turn. As they posed with ice cream, ...

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Jared's Recent Birthday Celebrations

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Cocoduck is a unique dining concept that combines the casual comfort of fried chicken with the luxury of caviar, offering a fusion of high and low cuisine in a single menu. This juxtaposition of upscale and down-to-earth flavors aims to provide customers with a novel and indulgent dining experience. The restaurant's menu features dishes that blend the richness of caviar with the familiar appeal of fried chicken, creating a distinctive culinary offering. By combining these seemingly contrasting elements, Cocoduck seeks to surprise and delight diners with its innovative approach to gastronomy.
  • The comparison of the staff's demeanor to employees of Trader Joe's suggests that the staff at Cocoduck were friendly, approachable, and provided excellent customer service, similar to the reputation of Trader Joe's employees. Trader Joe's is known for its cheerful and helpful staff, creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere for customers. This comparison highlights the pleasant and engaging interactions Jared experienced with the restaurant staff during his birthday dinner.
  • The phrase "her hair had been specially done for her birthday" sug ...

Counterarguments

...

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Debate Over Parents Meeting New Partners

Discussion about when is the right time to introduce parents to a new boyfriend/girlfriend

Jared and Jordana tackle the significance of introducing a romantic partner to one's parents, acknowledging that for some, meeting the parents is a considerable step in a relationship.

And whether it's reasonable to want parental approval before committing to an official relationship

Jordana voices her concerns about individuals requiring their parents' approval before deciding on a relationship, suggesting it may signal a lack of confidence in one's decision-making or partner selection. Jared adds that seeking parental approval might be a method of outsourcing the selection process, particularly when there's uncertainty.

Jordana highlights that a close relationship with parents can sometimes affect developing independence in personal decision-making in dating contexts. They concur that the need for parental approval might indicate deeper issues of self-trust in judgment and forming relationships.

The email sender, who discusses with their parents almost daily, typically waits at least five dates before discussing a new partner with them. They share a past experience of introducing a partner to their parents after two and a half months because the relationship was serious, with a doubles tennis game being their meeting activity. However, the sender feels guilty when relationships do not succeed post-family introduction.

Jordana opines that one's liking of their partner should be a good indicator of whether their parents would also approve. Jared, resonating with this viewpoint, doubts his ability to accurately predict his parents' approval.

Jared and Jordana analyze not wanting to date someone disliked by others in their life, with Jordana pointing out that it's not an irrational consideration. They acknowledge that while they don't seek explicit par ...

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Debate Over Parents Meeting New Partners

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Jared and Jordana discuss the importance of parental approval in relationships, with Jordana questioning the need for it and suggesting it may indicate underlying issues. Jared reflects on the significance of introducing partners to parents and how it has evolved for him over time. They both agree that while family approval is not always necessary, a partner's fit within the family dynamic is crucial for relationship success.
  • The email sender in the text discusses their approach to introducing new partners to their parents, waiting at least five dates before doing so. They shared a past experience of introducing a partner after two and a half months, feeling guilty if the relationship did not work out post-introduction. This example illustrates the sender's consideration of timing and significance when involving their parents in their dating life.
  • The hosts discuss the importance of considering how a potential partner is perceived by others in their life. They mention that while seeking explicit parental approval may not be necessary, it is crucial for a partner to fit well within their family dynamic. This consideration stems from the belief that family members generally want their loved ones to be happy and supported in their relationships. The hosts emphasize the significance of ensuring that a partner is well-received by important people in their lives to avoid potential conflicts or discomfort.
  • The emotional aspect of relationship closure often involves feelings of sadness, ...

Counterarguments

  • While introducing a romantic partner to parents is significant for some, others may view it as a less critical step that doesn't necessarily reflect the seriousness of the relationship.
  • Seeking parental approval can also be seen as a way to honor family traditions and values, rather than a lack of confidence in one's own decision-making abilities.
  • A close relationship with parents doesn't always negatively impact independence; it can also provide a supportive foundation for making confident personal decisions.
  • Discussing a new partner with parents after a set number of dates, like five, is arbitrary and may not suit everyone's unique pace in a relationship.
  • Feeling guilty when a relationship fails after introducing a partner to family can be a natural response to disappointing loved ones, but it doesn't always reflect personal failure.
  • A person's liking of their partner is not a guaranteed indicator of parental approval, as parents may have different criteria or concerns.
  • Choosing not to date someone disliked by others can sometimes lead to missed opportunities for personal growth and fulfilling relationships that challenge social circles.
  • The importance of a partner fitting well within the family dynamic can vary greatly among different cultures and individual preferences.
  • Feelings of embarrassment post-breakup are not universal and can be mitigated by framing introductions to parents as a normal part of dating rather than a significant milestone.
  • The significance of introducing partners to parents may ...

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