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00:00:00How do you know when you've met the one?
00:00:22That's the question we'll be addressing this week.
00:00:25I'm Serena Shepard.
00:00:26Thank you for making Love's Listening the number one romance podcast in America.
00:00:32We have Charlie on the line.
00:00:34Hello?
00:00:35I can't believe I'm actually on the show.
00:00:38I listen to you every week.
00:00:39Your advice has changed my life.
00:00:41I'm honored.
00:00:43So, Charlie, do you think you've met the one?
00:00:47I don't know.
00:00:48How could you tell?
00:00:49The simplest way to know is if that person makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
00:00:55What do you think, Charlie?
00:00:57Is love on the line for you?
00:01:12Serena, I'm here.
00:01:14Have you seen this?
00:01:24I go through one breakup and they question my entire brand?
00:01:31It's just one tabloid.
00:01:33It's lighting up socials, too.
00:01:40A complete nightmare.
00:01:42I can't believe Brandon would do this.
00:01:44We agreed we would stay together for the podcast awards, then tastefully break the news on each other's platforms.
00:01:51Absolutely disrespectful!
00:01:52I don't think that Brandon would...
00:01:55Do you think it was his sister?
00:01:57She never liked me, that monster.
00:02:01I'm America's number one authority on relationships for crying out loud.
00:02:05I can't afford to go through a public breakup right now.
00:02:09I know you're single and you wouldn't understand what the heartache is like.
00:02:12Well, I've had relationships before.
00:02:15I'm hemorrhaging followers!
00:02:18You can bet that this is going to affect appearances and brand partnerships, too.
00:02:25It's only a matter of time before I'm completely finished.
00:02:29You get through it.
00:02:31I'll help.
00:02:33You want to talk about the new segment?
00:02:36Yes.
00:02:37Take off your assistant cap and put on your writer's beret and thrill me.
00:02:40So, for the spring fever segment, um, I have a breakdown of all the symbolism of different types of flowers, and, um, okay.
00:02:52Um, best places to get caught in the rain?
00:02:56Oh, uh, um, how about redefining spring romance as in more than a spring fling,
00:03:05with the feature on picking the perfect time for a first kiss.
00:03:13Yes.
00:03:14That's it.
00:03:15That's the one.
00:03:16Write that up tonight.
00:03:18We need fresh material ASAP.
00:03:21First, we'll get everyone's mind off of this breakup nonsense,
00:03:24and then we'll finally get our recognition at the National Podcast Awards.
00:03:28Sounds like a plan.
00:03:29Once we win, I'll be crediting you as co-writer and producer.
00:03:33Don't think I've forgotten.
00:03:35Thank you, Serena.
00:03:37Oh.
00:03:39Oh.
00:03:46Finally.
00:03:48Producer and writer, Abby Roig.
00:03:51Good morning.
00:03:56Loves, listener, production offices, this is Abby.
00:03:59This is Jack Whitman, with the Times Daily in New York.
00:04:06Jack Whitman?
00:04:09Yes.
00:04:10I'm calling to confirm my 10 a.m. tomorrow with Serena Shepard.
00:04:13We set this time several weeks ago, but I haven't heard any follow-up since.
00:04:17Um, I'm so sorry.
00:04:20Um, tomorrow, 10 a.m., you said?
00:04:24Correct.
00:04:25At Verde.
00:04:26Please confirm with her.
00:04:28I'm set to fly out tonight, and I don't want to waste any more of my time on this.
00:04:31That's, uh, I'll go confirm with her.
00:04:35Please hold.
00:04:41I'm creating content.
00:04:44What is it?
00:04:45I'm sorry.
00:04:46Um, uh, Jack Whitman is calling to confirm a meeting tomorrow at 10 a.m.
00:04:52Jack Whitman.
00:04:53He's a journalist at the Times Daily.
00:04:56In New York?
00:04:59Is he hot?
00:05:01I guess so.
00:05:03I-I don't know.
00:05:04It's coming back to me.
00:05:06Yes, I definitely told you about this.
00:05:09Uh, no.
00:05:10I would have put this in your calendar immediately.
00:05:13No, you're mistaken.
00:05:14Anyway, it doesn't matter.
00:05:16Go ahead and confirm.
00:05:18I'm so sorry to keep you waiting.
00:05:20Yes, are we confirmed or not?
00:05:22Yes, we're confirmed.
00:05:23Mrs. Shepard, it's all looking forward.
00:05:28Hello?
00:05:29Hello?
00:05:30Who hands up him someone?
00:05:37You totally broke my creative flow.
00:05:40I'm sorry.
00:05:43Is that him?
00:05:44Mm-hmm.
00:05:45Ah, he is attractive.
00:05:50Why is he wasting a face like that on newspaper journalism?
00:05:54Although I could ask the same of myself, who would have thought this face would be hiding
00:05:58behind sound waves 90% of the time?
00:06:00He would be the perfect arm candy to escort me to the podcast awards.
00:06:08Smart and handsome.
00:06:10Picture this.
00:06:12Serena Shepard.
00:06:13Single, no more.
00:06:15It's perfect.
00:06:16It's perfect.
00:06:17Yes, it's perfect.
00:06:27Yeah.
00:06:33A relationship guru?
00:06:34Really?
00:06:35I'm not even sold on relationships, and you want me to profile a guru.
00:06:39It's humiliating.
00:06:41Maybe she can help you unpack some of that baggage you've been dragging around since your
00:06:44breakup.
00:06:45Not likely.
00:06:49I've known you long enough to expect healthy skepticism when it comes to matters of the
00:06:53heart.
00:06:54But I also expect you to bring that dog curiosity that makes you such a brilliant writer.
00:06:59I know, but I...
00:07:00Don't let your bad experience with love make you think that this is perfect.
00:07:05Love comes for us all, Jack.
00:07:10You sound like a fortune cookie.
00:07:12Embrace the challenge.
00:07:14Enjoy a few days by the beach.
00:07:16Tour the studio.
00:07:18And get insight into a production style and POV.
00:07:23I know you're less than thrilled, but this is a scoop.
00:07:27So go.
00:07:28Scoop.
00:07:32Oh, Aunt Abby, can I take Bentley to the treehouse?
00:07:34Sure, Lucy, just don't drop him.
00:07:37Okay?
00:07:38Or Serena will kill me.
00:07:43She's such a cool kid.
00:07:44I know.
00:07:46I mean, almost too cool.
00:07:47I'm glad she got her jeans and now Mads.
00:07:50Be nice.
00:07:51I love my brother-in-law, but I'm glad that she didn't inherit his sense of humor.
00:07:58I thank the universe every day.
00:08:03Abs, it's not really a break if you spend it walking Serena's dog.
00:08:06Well, I get to take a longer lunch break.
00:08:11Because I'm multitasking.
00:08:14Why?
00:08:14I don't know why you're always defending her.
00:08:17You guys were peers in college.
00:08:18It was older than me.
00:08:20She treats you terribly.
00:08:22I get to pick my office chair.
00:08:24And still, after all this time, you're just a glorified assistant.
00:08:28Executive assistant.
00:08:29She doesn't even credit you, and you write the whole dang show.
00:08:33She will credit me as soon as we win the podcast awards.
00:08:36We will win.
00:08:37Good.
00:08:39Good.
00:08:40Because I need some award-winning romance advice.
00:08:48Matt wants to buy a house.
00:08:51But I love our neighborhood, and there's no way that we could afford to buy anything in the area.
00:08:58You're a creature of habits.
00:09:00Famously.
00:09:02Plus, my business is still growing.
00:09:04It's stressful.
00:09:05What was just a few arguments is really starting to cause a rift.
00:09:14You're going to be a very famous designer.
00:09:18And I get that part.
00:09:20What are the upsides?
00:09:23Well, more space, obviously.
00:09:27I could have an actual office with a real drafting table.
00:09:32We would have a yard, and Lucy could get a dog.
00:09:37She can have Serena's.
00:09:39Aunt Abby, look!
00:09:41Oh, watch out.
00:09:42Just be careful.
00:09:43Come down already.
00:09:44With change comes a lot of fear.
00:09:52But you just have to visualize the best-case scenario, and maybe the change can bring you a new creative energy, new environment, new perspective.
00:10:04Just be honest with Matt.
00:10:05Matt, you guys are a team, and he's probably Andrews, too.
00:10:12That's great advice.
00:10:15You should have your own podcast.
00:10:17Oh!
00:10:18Matt still has all of his audio equipment from when he went through that startup and midlife crisis.
00:10:24You should take it, please.
00:10:25I'm begging you.
00:10:26No, I don't even have time for my own lunch break.
00:10:29I'm gonna, no, nobody cares what I have to say.
00:10:33My life isn't aspirational.
00:10:35You're authentic.
00:10:37Glitz isn't everything.
00:10:39I mean, look at Serena.
00:10:40She has a miserable life.
00:10:42But she appears to be fabulous.
00:10:44It appeared to be a mess, a single mess.
00:10:47And nobody wants advice from a single mess.
00:10:51Abby, Brad was two years ago.
00:10:54You gotta get out there.
00:10:56Don't let one unfaithful jerk drive you to be single forever.
00:11:01Tonight when you get home, put all of his stuff in a box.
00:11:03I don't know.
00:11:04Do not pretend you don't still have some of Brad's stuff.
00:11:06I know you do.
00:11:08Put it in a box, reflect, and toss it.
00:11:11Fresh start.
00:11:13You deserve someone who deserves you.
00:11:16Lucas giving great advice now.
00:11:18I wish.
00:11:19It's from a podcast.
00:11:21You should know it.
00:11:22You wrote it.
00:11:24Abby?
00:11:24Abby, I need you.
00:11:29Is this a new merchandise?
00:11:32Yes.
00:11:32Just hideous.
00:11:34I wish our listeners had some taste, but whatever brings in the box, right?
00:11:40What else do you know about this reporter I'm meeting tomorrow?
00:11:43Jack Whitman?
00:11:44Um, well, he's been working for the Times Daily for years, and he does his super insightful
00:11:51profiles.
00:11:53He just had this amazing story about a researcher leading an indigenous forward effort in the
00:11:59rainforest.
00:11:59Oh, it's a rainforest.
00:12:01It feels like such a 90s issue.
00:12:04Well, it's been a problem for many, many years.
00:12:08Sounds like a fixer-upper.
00:12:10The rainforest?
00:12:11No, the reporter.
00:12:13You are so silly.
00:12:16He'll need to be warned now if he's going to escort me to the podcast awards.
00:12:20Ah, well, we love a project.
00:12:23Has he sent over questions?
00:12:24No.
00:12:26But I expect him to be a bit tougher than what you're used to.
00:12:30Hmm.
00:12:31Not loving that from me.
00:12:33Fine.
00:12:34Write up talking points I can bring up.
00:12:36Topical things so he can see how deep I am.
00:12:39I hate that I miss him.
00:13:00You know what?
00:13:00I don't miss him.
00:13:01I miss being with someone.
00:13:04Can we just keep all the hard stuff and go right into having someone to watch a movie with?
00:13:09You're right.
00:13:12We can do popcorn and rom-com on our own.
00:13:19And we can have each other.
00:13:22This is it.
00:13:24This is a classic.
00:13:39It's too early.
00:13:56How bad is it?
00:13:59Oh, I knew it.
00:14:01This stupid facial.
00:14:03Oh, how?
00:14:08I booked Jasmine, like always.
00:14:11Did she do something different?
00:14:14Serena, what happened?
00:14:17I don't know.
00:14:19I added an oregano oil enhancement.
00:14:22No big deal.
00:14:23It was for my mind.
00:14:26Serena, you're allergic to oregano.
00:14:27I can't be responsible for knowing every single little one of my own allergies.
00:14:33I'm busy.
00:14:34That's your job.
00:14:36We have to push the interview.
00:14:37No, we can't.
00:14:39It's in one hour and he flew all the way here.
00:14:42I can't go like this.
00:14:45Reschedule.
00:14:46Charm him, bribe him, whatever.
00:14:47Just don't lose the interview.
00:14:49You've reached Jack Whitman with the Times Daily.
00:14:53Please leave a message and I'll return your call at the earliest opportunity.
00:14:57Hi, Mr. Whitman.
00:14:58This is Abby.
00:14:59I'm calling on behalf of Serena Shepard.
00:15:10Oh, good morning.
00:15:11Uh, just a soda, please.
00:15:19Hi, Mr. Whitman.
00:15:21This is Abby Roy.
00:15:22I'm calling on behalf of Serena Shepard.
00:15:26Thank you very much.
00:15:40Oh, thank you.
00:15:49Hi, Mr. Whitman.
00:16:09Yes.
00:16:10Do I know you?
00:16:12No, I mean, yes.
00:16:14Who is poking on the phone?
00:16:15I'm Abby Roy, Serena Shepard's assistant.
00:16:18And I'm so sorry to keep you waiting, but I tried to call you and anyway, um, I'm so
00:16:25embarrassed, but we're going to have to push the interview.
00:16:29Serena is dealing with some conflict that it can't be avoided.
00:16:32Miss Roy, was it?
00:16:35Oh, Abby, please.
00:16:36Abby.
00:16:37You realize that I am based in New York City.
00:16:40Yes, of course.
00:16:42I'm so sorry about that.
00:16:44Can we reschedule for tonight?
00:16:46Sadly, no.
00:16:48Serena, she's dealing with some personal matters, and it won't be resolved by tonight.
00:16:53But I'll reach out as soon as we...
00:16:55You will reach out?
00:16:57Yeah.
00:16:57I don't have unlimited time here, okay?
00:17:00I realize that you're just an assistant, but if Serena wants this interview, please have
00:17:03her call me ASAP.
00:17:05Maybe I will still be in town.
00:17:08Level of unprofessionalism here.
00:17:09Well, if you realize that I'm just the assistant, maybe you can appreciate that I'm just the
00:17:16messenger.
00:17:17Your rudeness isn't called for.
00:17:19My rudeness.
00:17:19Mm-hmm.
00:17:20I fly halfway across the country on a delayed, overbooked flight to interview your boss.
00:17:25Then she no-shows, without notice.
00:17:28Then she sends you 45 minutes late.
00:17:31But I'm the rude one.
00:17:32Got it.
00:17:32I tried to call you, but you didn't answer.
00:17:35How is that professional?
00:17:36Well, I always silence my phone for interviews, even if it is just for silly podcast hosts.
00:17:42Well, I ran here.
00:17:44Yes, I care so much about my job that I ran all the way here so you wouldn't be waiting
00:17:48in this humidity.
00:17:50I know that you're very important, but so are we.
00:17:54Or, so is she.
00:17:55She's very important.
00:17:58And, clearly, podcasts are beneath you, but it was time daily that one of these interviews
00:18:03not loves listening, so yes, have a nice flight back.
00:18:08Wow.
00:18:11So, how tall is he in person?
00:18:20Wondering what height heels I should wear when the redness goes down.
00:18:22When are we rescheduled to?
00:18:25We're not.
00:18:27He was really upset that you weren't there.
00:18:30And it seems like he doesn't even want to be here, so I kind of played it sort of hardball.
00:18:37What does that mean?
00:18:38You know I hate sports.
00:18:40Hmm, I told him that you didn't need the press.
00:18:44He was very lucky to be doing the profile.
00:18:47You what?
00:18:48What?
00:18:48He was just so rude and pompous.
00:18:50We do need this coverage, Abby.
00:18:53We need the promotion before the awards, and I need to put this breakup gossip to rest immediately.
00:18:59How did you mess this up?
00:19:00Fix it!
00:19:01Well, I don't think he wants to talk to me ever again, so why don't you call him?
00:19:05Oh, and how would that look?
00:19:08No, this is on you.
00:19:10Take one of my gift baskets, march over to wherever he's staying, and apologize.
00:19:16Keep him occupied.
00:19:17Whatever it takes, your job depends on it.
00:19:20Okay, I'm really sorry.
00:19:23Let me remind you that you're my assistant and a direct reflection of my brand.
00:19:28You do not get to take these kinds of liberties with communication.
00:19:31And where are the scripts for the spring segments, by the way?
00:19:36I've just been so distracted.
00:19:38I'm hearing a lot of excuses, Abby.
00:19:41Very disappointing.
00:19:43You can't be serious.
00:19:46I get that you're frustrated, but what I'm also hearing is that you were condescending and impatient.
00:19:52Has it been so long since you were an assistant that you've forgotten what it's like?
00:19:55I took it out on the wrong person, okay?
00:19:59Sure sounds like it.
00:20:00I know you don't want to be there, but you have a job to do.
00:20:04So don't step foot back in the city without a story.
00:20:07Look, I'll fix it, okay?
00:20:09I gotta go.
00:20:12Uh, special delivery?
00:20:14Mr. Whitman.
00:20:15Jack, please.
00:20:17Jack, I thought you'd be in a hotel.
00:20:21So did I.
00:20:23Unfortunately, they lost my reservation, so I had to improvise.
00:20:27I'm so sorry.
00:20:28It's okay.
00:20:29Vacation rental.
00:20:30Listen, I wanted to apologize on behalf of Love's Listening.
00:20:35So we thought that you maybe enjoy some face masks and, um, bath bombs.
00:20:43You know, who doesn't love bath bombs, right?
00:20:45Pump it yourself.
00:20:47Uh, that's nice.
00:20:48Some eyelash curler.
00:20:50Do you cur your lashes?
00:20:51Maybe for your wife or your girlfriend?
00:20:53You know, um, no girlfriend, no wife, and I think that my eyelashes are naturally curly enough, don't you?
00:21:01But I really do appreciate the gesture.
00:21:05I need to apologize, too.
00:21:06I need to apologize to you, okay?
00:21:08I've been an assistant, and it's tough.
00:21:11And I had a bad start to this trip, and I unfairly took that out on you.
00:21:15I'd be happy to reschedule if there's a time this week that works better for Serena, and for you, of course.
00:21:22That would be great.
00:21:25We definitely want to reboot ASAP.
00:21:29Serena's dealing with some personal stuff right now, but how well do you know the show?
00:21:34Honestly, I've listened to a few episodes, but I lack a familiarity with the whole production process.
00:21:40I can definitely help you with that.
00:21:43So, there's surprisingly little information about Serena's background online.
00:21:49That feels pretty intentional.
00:21:51Is there a question in the statement?
00:21:54Sure.
00:21:55Where is she from?
00:21:56Let's start there.
00:21:57Well, she's from Delaware originally, and she moved here for college.
00:22:01And she fell in love with the city.
00:22:05So did I.
00:22:07Actually, I mean, it's so easy to fall in love with, obviously.
00:22:12Eh.
00:22:13What?
00:22:13Eh.
00:22:15Oh, of course.
00:22:17You're one of those New Yorkers who can see potential anywhere else.
00:22:21Look, I mean, New York is just so alive, so creative, so a third thing.
00:22:28Writer, huh?
00:22:30Huh.
00:22:31I was born and raised in Cuba, but I've been living here for the past 10 years.
00:22:36The city has changed, sometimes not for the better, but has so much history, so much creative inspiration.
00:22:45So, how does Serena separate the podcast from her personal life?
00:22:51In what way?
00:22:52Well, I've listened to a couple episodes, as I've told you.
00:22:57And now, what do you think so far?
00:22:59Well, I mean, the advice actually isn't that bad.
00:23:03The writing's much better than I thought it would be, and there's an eloquence to it that I wasn't anticipating.
00:23:08Thank you for the high praise.
00:23:12I mean, I'm just the assistant, but it's good to hear, on behalf of the show.
00:23:17Look, full disclosure, I don't think people can actually change with romantic advice.
00:23:23The idea's nice.
00:23:24Wow.
00:23:25From compliments to condescension.
00:23:29I like the compliment part more.
00:23:38Hi, Carlos.
00:23:40Hey, Abby.
00:23:41Oh, look at you.
00:23:43You've got a friend.
00:23:44I have friends.
00:23:46Can I grab one of these and this as well, please?
00:23:49Si, senor.
00:23:50How much?
00:23:51Ten dollars.
00:23:53Look, I'm not trying to be condescending.
00:23:55It's not Serena's fault, but at their core, people just don't change.
00:23:58They can't.
00:23:58It's a fact.
00:24:01Well, I just don't agree with you, or I just can't.
00:24:04In what sense?
00:24:05Well, I don't think people aren't, you know, setting those ways.
00:24:09People can change, or grow, or even become someone they didn't even expect to be.
00:24:15Wow.
00:24:17Does Serena force you to say that, or are you actually this naive?
00:24:20No one forces me to say anything, and I'm not naive.
00:24:23Some people don't want to change, so they don't.
00:24:27But for those who want to, you know, I happen to be living romance.
00:24:31Is that so bad?
00:24:32No, it's just not realistic.
00:24:35Realistic or cynical?
00:24:38I give up.
00:24:39Heck, I've been called a cynic before.
00:24:44Well, I have to go for my next meeting.
00:24:47Okay.
00:24:48Well, goodbye, in case we don't see each other again.
00:24:51What do you mean we won't see each other again?
00:24:54The paper's not just going to pay for me to hang out, you know.
00:24:57Thank you for the walk.
00:24:58It was lovely, but I'm going to need some more substantial info regarding Serena's creative process to justify my staying in town.
00:25:06How about I take you to the places where Serena gets her inspiration?
00:25:10The city totally shapes her point of view, and, you know, we can schedule a tour visit of the studio.
00:25:18Just until Serena is available herself, which she will be very soon.
00:25:22I can do it tomorrow morning.
00:25:23I can do it tomorrow morning.
00:25:25Does that work for you?
00:25:29Sure.
00:25:29That all sounds good.
00:25:31Just email me the details, and I'll see you in the morning.
00:25:34I know, Audrey, but I have a non-disclosure agreement with Serena.
00:25:47It's not like I can tell Jack, hey, her inspirational spots are actually my inspirational spots because I write everything.
00:25:55Plus, now I'm so afraid of messing up that I can't even write the stupid script I'm supposed to write.
00:26:00Oh, the internet says that your brown leaves may mean that you're a little bit drafty.
00:26:11No one likes a high man in Steve or Audrey.
00:26:16Where could you go from here?
00:26:19No.
00:26:20Mm-hmm.
00:26:20Yes.
00:26:21You can stretch for a minute if you want.
00:26:23I'm fine, thank you.
00:26:25I take spin classes at my gym, so fully prepared.
00:26:28Hey, don't say I didn't warn you.
00:26:31I've been fully warned.
00:26:35Okay, let's go.
00:26:36Lead the way.
00:26:38We're here.
00:26:39Oh.
00:26:46This is why you need subways.
00:26:49We have major rail and free trolleys.
00:26:52You have trolleys?
00:26:53No, we don't have trolleys.
00:26:55Trolleys are just unfinished buses.
00:26:57And subways are for people who prefer to travel in the dark.
00:27:03Oh, I sense a metaphor there that's pretty deep.
00:27:06So, an advice show.
00:27:11Mm-hmm.
00:27:11What kind of people call in for love advice from a total stranger?
00:27:16Regular callers, I feel like they know Serena.
00:27:19So she's not a stranger to them.
00:27:21Okay, that makes sense.
00:27:23But don't you think anyone can give advice?
00:27:26Why trust Serena?
00:27:27What makes her advice so special?
00:27:30You have to be really observant to give romantic advice.
00:27:34And an excellent listener to read between the lines.
00:27:38And that's one of the hallmarks of love's listening.
00:27:44Hey, well, show me what you mean.
00:27:46Um, okay, um, I'm not Serena, but I can give it a try.
00:27:54Um, there, that couple, they weren't friends before they started dating, so I would advise
00:28:02them to go on a trip together or a theme park, you know, to have some external stressors
00:28:10to see if they can handle it.
00:28:12If they can, they will be golden.
00:28:16Interesting.
00:28:19You try.
00:28:22Me?
00:28:23Yes.
00:28:24You, you say that anyone can give advice that includes you, right?
00:28:29Using my own words against me, I see.
00:28:32Okay, um, all right, uh, they're together.
00:28:40And they have a baby together.
00:28:45And they don't sleep because of the kid.
00:28:54That's the worst reading I ever heard?
00:28:57Clearly, romance is not my forte.
00:28:59Surprise, surprise.
00:29:00I'm more of a hard facts kind of guy.
00:29:02And factually speaking, we'll never actually know how accurate your reading was because we're
00:29:07just guessing.
00:29:09How about I read you?
00:29:10And you tell me if I'm right, factually.
00:29:14Okay, shoot.
00:29:16Let's see.
00:29:17Um, you're very critical of this kind of stuff because you got your heart broken.
00:29:27We all have.
00:29:29Very badly.
00:29:30What makes you say that?
00:29:35Just to wait.
00:29:38You know what?
00:29:39It doesn't matter.
00:29:41It takes one to know one, I guess.
00:29:47Um, we should go to the next place.
00:29:50Yeah.
00:29:50Uh, is it okay that we leave our bikes here?
00:29:54No, this is not New York.
00:29:55No, this is not New York.
00:29:55Okay.
00:29:59You all right?
00:30:01I, I've written casually for years.
00:30:04I'm trying to make bigger strikes, but I'm not in the right place right now.
00:30:10I'm so frustrated and I feel like I'm not where I should be.
00:30:14What do you mean where you should be?
00:30:16I don't know.
00:30:19I feel like if I've done everything differently, I've been further along the way now, but I
00:30:25can't and I'm stuck in my head.
00:30:27I, I don't know.
00:30:31Sounds like an excuse.
00:30:34Look, can I give you some unsolicited advice?
00:30:39Depends.
00:30:40Are you going to be mean about it?
00:30:42Man, I really made a bad first impression, didn't I?
00:30:49Okay.
00:30:51I welcome any advice.
00:30:54I've been there.
00:30:56That feeling like you've missed opportunities, wondering about other roads, other timelines,
00:31:01whether it was with writing or relationships.
00:31:07Anyways, some of the best advice I ever got was to bloom where I was planted.
00:31:12You know, it doesn't help to linger on what's out of your control, and you just got to trust
00:31:19that you're where you are right now for a reason.
00:31:24That's a great advice.
00:31:26Are you becoming an optimistic now?
00:31:28Don't push it.
00:31:29That's a shame.
00:31:31The glimmer of optimism really suited you.
00:31:33You don't really think I'm mean, do you?
00:31:38Not right now.
00:31:40That's good.
00:31:44Abby, it's me.
00:31:46Pick up.
00:31:47Hi, this is Abby.
00:31:49Leave a message.
00:31:49How's it going with the nerd?
00:31:58You know, I was thinking maybe you could tell him I was unavailable because I was volunteering
00:32:03at a hospital.
00:32:04Puppy shelter?
00:32:05Puppy hospital.
00:32:08Use whatever's saddest.
00:32:09Call me back.
00:32:19Ah.
00:32:21We are here.
00:32:27Wow.
00:32:29A little bit more scenic than the Hudson, huh?
00:32:32It's like a postcard.
00:32:33Mm-hmm.
00:32:35I love to come here when I feel like my work is still,
00:32:39and I walk on the sand, and I like to think that if you change your environment,
00:32:45you can change your perspective.
00:32:48Well, it really is beautiful here.
00:32:53Are you okay?
00:32:54Ah, yeah.
00:32:55I think I got a Charlie for us.
00:32:56Okay.
00:32:58Okay, sorry.
00:32:58You're not me.
00:32:59Come on.
00:32:59No, I'm fine.
00:33:00I'm fine.
00:33:01All right.
00:33:01No, you're not.
00:33:02Okay.
00:33:02All right.
00:33:03I told you to stretch, but you didn't want it to do it.
00:33:07Is it exhausting?
00:33:08What?
00:33:08Always being right.
00:33:10Well, yes, but I can manage.
00:33:13Oh.
00:33:14Oh, this is, this is the end of our tour.
00:33:18And I'm hoping that, you know, you get the feeling of how Serena, our creative process.
00:33:24Yeah.
00:33:27You want me to call you a cab?
00:33:29No, I'm, I'm okay, actually.
00:33:31Um, I'm actually pretty famished.
00:33:35Do you want to grab dinner?
00:33:36My treat, if you can think of any place that we can hobble to.
00:33:41This is one of Serena's favorite spots in the city.
00:33:45From what I see on the menu, she's got good taste.
00:33:47Thanks.
00:33:48Um, I'll let her know that you said so.
00:33:51What are you getting?
00:33:53You know what?
00:33:54I'm going to follow your lead.
00:33:55All right.
00:33:56Hold my hand till the courage sticks.
00:34:07Shine the light till the darkness wakes.
00:34:13Hold me up.
00:34:23I, I wanted to ask you something, but I don't want it to come out wrong.
00:34:32Well, go for it.
00:34:33I mean, I feel like we know each other pretty well at this point.
00:34:35Okay, I, I had a feeling that you didn't want to be here.
00:34:41Are you being punished or something?
00:34:43Punished?
00:34:44No, um, I was just being a snob.
00:34:48Yep.
00:34:49I mean, Serena has a massive platform.
00:34:52The Times Daily is trying to expand its readership, and I'm the profile guy, so.
00:34:58That makes sense.
00:34:59And how do you feel now?
00:35:01Pretty full.
00:35:02You know what I mean.
00:35:05Well, truthfully, I wasn't keen on the idea.
00:35:08I mean, I like to be in my comfort zone, and I have a little bit of an aversion to anything
00:35:15touting romantic expertise, but you were spot on earlier about relationship stuff.
00:35:24I don't want you to discuss this if it makes you feel uncomfortable.
00:35:27No, it's fine, really.
00:35:30Let's see how to make it succinct.
00:35:35The headline would read,
00:35:37Woman breaks fiance's heart two months before their wedding.
00:35:42Oh my god, I'm so sorry about that.
00:35:45Is she looking for herself?
00:35:46I thought so, but she had found someone else while we were dating.
00:35:53Now, honesty is the most important part of relationship for me by far.
00:35:58I mean, it would hurt too much to learn again that someone wasn't who they said they were.
00:36:04I understand that.
00:36:06I'm so sorry.
00:36:09For what?
00:36:09For everything that happened.
00:36:12At this point, I just want to skip all of the complicated dating stuff and get right to the
00:36:19point where I get to be with someone that I can hang out and watch movies with.
00:36:25That's the dream.
00:36:26Well, maybe if I keep listening to love's listening, I can collect enough tips so that I can do that.
00:36:32Serena is very charming.
00:36:34Maybe, but I don't think that's what it is.
00:36:38You know, there's real heart to the contents.
00:36:43I'm looking forward to seeing how Serena puts it all together.
00:36:46Me too.
00:36:53No, I didn't say that though.
00:36:56No, I just take...
00:36:58No, no.
00:37:00No, it's not the last opportunity, Matt.
00:37:04Oh, well, I'm sorry you feel that way.
00:37:08Hey, Ab's just walked in.
00:37:10I'm gonna crash here tonight, cool?
00:37:13Yeah, I'll see you tomorrow.
00:37:15Bye.
00:37:17I'm sorry you feel that way?
00:37:20You know that's not an apology.
00:37:22Can you just be Sister Abby and not Romance Podcast Abby for a bit?
00:37:27Absolutely.
00:37:28What's going on?
00:37:34Matt wanted to put in an offer for the house, and I got a little freaked out, so I...
00:37:40I told him to wait, just because I needed more time.
00:37:44Do you like the house?
00:37:46I thought you were ready to make that move.
00:37:49That's what Matt said.
00:37:50And I love the house.
00:37:51I just, I needed to take a breath, you know?
00:37:58Anyways, while we were having that argument, the seller accepted another offer.
00:38:04Matt is pretty frustrated with me right now.
00:38:07I'm so sorry.
00:38:08There would be other houses, you know?
00:38:12I know.
00:38:14This place was just really great.
00:38:16And you know Miami real estate.
00:38:18I've heard.
00:38:20It was just happening so quickly.
00:38:23I don't know, I...
00:38:24We'll be fine, but...
00:38:27Lucy's staying at a friend's house tonight.
00:38:30Is it cool if I just crash here, just for some space?
00:38:34Please.
00:38:35I'm so glad that you're gonna be here with me tonight.
00:38:38Hot chocolate?
00:38:39You know it.
00:38:40Okay.
00:38:54So, how was your date?
00:38:57It was a work thing, not a date.
00:39:01You're pretty long for a work thing.
00:39:03I thought you said you were just spending part of the day with him.
00:39:06He took me to dinner.
00:39:08For work.
00:39:10Don't look at me like that.
00:39:12Stop it!
00:39:13Okay, it was great.
00:39:15He's surprising.
00:39:17Different than I thought.
00:39:19And a little bit frustrating at times.
00:39:22But I don't know.
00:39:23I think he likes my writing.
00:39:25Of course he does.
00:39:26You're talented.
00:39:28But he doesn't know it's my writing.
00:39:30He kept quoting me to myself all day.
00:39:33Things that Serena said in the podcast or in articles.
00:39:37It was all of my own talking points and he has no idea.
00:39:41I know.
00:39:44He was so encouraging and disheartening.
00:39:52He's like a real writer.
00:39:55And to have made an impact on him made me feel like maybe I know what I'm talking about.
00:39:59I'll be just tell him.
00:40:02I can't.
00:40:03My NDA.
00:40:04Oh, that stupid piece of paper.
00:40:06It's a legal document.
00:40:09And I'm so close to finally getting the credit for my work.
00:40:14I'm gonna mess it up for what?
00:40:16To impress some guy?
00:40:18It's not even worth it.
00:40:21And frankly, we're too different.
00:40:24It's not even the romantic type.
00:40:26Oh my God.
00:40:28Besides, he, he's seen photos of Serena.
00:40:32To him, it's her face and her voice saying my words.
00:40:36It's not gonna be as impactful coming from me.
00:40:38I know that.
00:40:39You can't see what I see.
00:40:42You're so special.
00:40:43Jack spent the whole day with you.
00:40:45How could he not realize how talented and funny and beautiful you are?
00:40:51Well, if all of that were true, he's gonna forget as soon as he meets Serena.
00:40:58Just gonna swipe him off his feet.
00:41:02But she's so awful.
00:41:04She's been fully co-opting your brain for years.
00:41:07And she treats you lesser than when you should be full partner.
00:41:12Just consider telling him.
00:41:14That's all I'm saying.
00:41:16Okay.
00:41:18I'll consider it.
00:41:24Sure, the situation has been a little weird.
00:41:28But I feel like I'm getting some good insights.
00:41:31I'm sure she's very charming, but you're there to profile Serena.
00:41:35Not her assistant.
00:41:37Charming is not the word, but Abby is very authentic.
00:41:42I mean, I think she really truly believes in the romantic mission
00:41:45of the show.
00:41:46That's not the point I'm making, Jack.
00:41:50I get your point, okay?
00:41:52There's something weird going on.
00:41:54Abby's been pretty dodgy with some of her answers, but it makes sense if her boss has
00:41:59instructed her not to give me too much information.
00:42:01Why would she do that?
00:42:04You're sounding a little paranoid.
00:42:06I don't know.
00:42:07But I'm gonna figure it out.
00:42:08I'm about to take a tour of the show.
00:42:10I'll do a little digging.
00:42:12There's more to the story.
00:42:13I just can tell.
00:42:15Once you get in there, really push to spend time with Serena herself.
00:42:19Who's the woman behind the voice?
00:42:22Hey, I gotta go.
00:42:23Uh, I'll update you.
00:42:24Good morning.
00:42:29Good morning.
00:42:30Coffee?
00:42:31Thanks.
00:42:32You're welcome.
00:42:32This is my sister, Bryn.
00:42:34Hi, Bryn.
00:42:35Abby's sister, I'm Jack Whitman.
00:42:36Hi, Jack.
00:42:37Isn't she brilliant?
00:42:38Bryn.
00:42:40She's been very helpful.
00:42:41Bryn has to be going now.
00:42:44Well, it's nice to meet you.
00:42:45You too.
00:42:48Are you ready for the grand tour?
00:42:50I am thrilled.
00:42:53It's pretty verbose, but we don't need much to record the show.
00:42:57And, you know, it also can be engineered remotely if needed.
00:43:02The most complicated parts of the live calls in.
00:43:06Wait a minute.
00:43:06What is this?
00:43:09That's Serena's confidence mirror.
00:43:13Just awards, photos of herself, and just some of her favorite features.
00:43:20She's pretty photogenic.
00:43:23Yeah.
00:43:26The new goal is to have my profile be good enough to make the confidence mirror.
00:43:31I'm sure it will.
00:43:33Serena loves a good story about herself.
00:43:38Speaking of the devil,
00:43:43it looks like we can rebook your meeting for tomorrow morning if that works for you.
00:43:47That's fantastic.
00:43:49Okay, fantastic.
00:43:50Awesome.
00:43:54My editor's really looking forward to the story.
00:43:57Gotta say, I'm looking forward to meeting Serena.
00:44:00She really knows how to build up the suspense.
00:44:03I'm sure she'll live up to her expectations.
00:44:05She always does.
00:44:06New merch, last round, sold really well.
00:44:10You should take those.
00:44:12You know, you can wear it when you meet Serena.
00:44:13I can make one little bag for you.
00:44:15Okay, if you say so.
00:44:20Thanks.
00:44:21You know, merchandise with advertisement on it seems a little off-brand for what I've seen so far from the podcast.
00:44:29In what way?
00:44:29Well, the insights on the show feel so down to earth.
00:44:34There's sort of a disconnect there between the words and the voice.
00:44:37Well, at the end of the day, Serena is just a small-town girl trying to mend one broken heart at a time.
00:44:44The merch is part of that journey.
00:44:46And this is the end of our tour.
00:44:55You okay?
00:44:56You seem kind of down.
00:44:57No, I'm fine.
00:44:59It's just I'm working on a project and I'm stuck.
00:45:03I can't work through it.
00:45:06Well, work advice is the kind of advice I can give if you want.
00:45:10Sure.
00:45:11I literally do it as bad as possible.
00:45:15Really?
00:45:16Why?
00:45:16Well, when you take out the expectation, the good version will come out.
00:45:21It's kind of a writing secret of mine.
00:45:22I call it the bad version.
00:45:24It takes confidence to be willing to fail.
00:45:27And it almost always works.
00:45:36Write the bad version.
00:45:37Okay.
00:45:40Okay.
00:45:40Okay.
00:45:42Okay.
00:45:43Okay.
00:45:43Bring it on.
00:45:45Take it.
00:45:47Bring it on.
00:45:51Bring it on.
00:45:53Take it.
00:45:55I'm ready for something, something new.
00:45:58I'm ready to show the world what I can do.
00:46:02It's gonna be rocking, that's all I can say.
00:46:06No reason to stop, cause I'm going all the way.
00:46:11Come on, bring it on.
00:46:14Got the wind on my back.
00:46:16I'm feeling strong.
00:46:18Got my flag on for...
00:46:19I can't believe that worked.
00:46:23Can you?
00:46:26And it's actually really good.
00:46:28Serena's gonna be so psyched.
00:46:32Spring fling segment is in your inbox.
00:46:36Excited about this one.
00:46:49Hey, Diane.
00:46:50Hi, you okay?
00:46:52Yeah, just wrapping up a workout.
00:46:54I got your message.
00:46:56Serena's finally confirmed her interview.
00:46:58Tomorrow.
00:46:59I have a lot of questions for her.
00:47:01I hate to admit it, but I think the woman knows what she's talking about.
00:47:05You're starting to sound like a romantic.
00:47:07Cough twice if you need rescuing.
00:47:09No, don't worry.
00:47:10I'm still a skeptic.
00:47:12She's still being evasive, but maybe a show with this large of a platform is actually helping people.
00:47:19Go get them.
00:47:22Thanks, Diane.
00:47:23I thought you said he was from New York.
00:47:34He's originally from Boeing City, Michigan, but he's lived in New York City for a decade.
00:47:39Did you review the list that I sent you with all the areas of interest and his journalism background?
00:47:44I did, but wow, Abby, it was so dense.
00:47:52You like this guy or something?
00:47:54No.
00:47:55Well, back off!
00:47:57He's mine!
00:48:03We have fun.
00:48:05I'm gonna finish getting ready.
00:48:09This will be perfect.
00:48:10First, I'll do the interview, and then I'll take him to lunch.
00:48:14Someplace public.
00:48:15Make sure people spot us together.
00:48:20Abby?
00:48:22Could you make sure the main room is tidied up before he gets here?
00:48:26Sure, Serena.
00:48:36Hey.
00:48:44What do you think?
00:48:46No good.
00:48:48It's too much.
00:48:48It's perfect.
00:48:50Okay.
00:48:51Can I get you anything?
00:48:54Some water would be nice.
00:48:58It's a bunch.
00:49:06Jack, hello.
00:49:10I'm so sorry.
00:49:11I hope I didn't keep you waiting.
00:49:13Oh, okay.
00:49:15That's nice.
00:49:16It's nice to finally meet you.
00:49:19Abby has done such a wonderful job familiarizing me with your work.
00:49:24Oh, good.
00:49:25I hope she didn't talk your ear off.
00:49:28Kidding, Abby.
00:49:31Jack, I just love our hat on you.
00:49:35Abby, shouldn't we have Jack model merchandise for our website?
00:49:40Sales would skyrocket.
00:49:45Not that we've had an issue.
00:49:46Those hats are selling like hotcakes.
00:49:49Do you mind if I record?
00:49:50No, not at all.
00:49:51Great.
00:49:54Red leather, yellow leather.
00:49:56Red leather, yellow.
00:49:59Oh, you ready?
00:50:00Yeah.
00:50:02Well, I am so glad you've taken an interest in my humble little show.
00:50:07I would hardly call your listenership humble at this point.
00:50:11You've made quite a splash industry-wide.
00:50:13Well, that's kind of you to say.
00:50:16You know, with enough hard work, anything is possible.
00:50:21And my listeners are everything to me.
00:50:24They feel like they know me.
00:50:26And I have to say, after hearing from so many of them every single week,
00:50:33I feel like I know them, too.
00:50:37I'm very lucky.
00:50:38And that's how it started.
00:50:46That's quite a journey to where you are now.
00:50:48Well, Jack, you know, at the end of the day, I am just a small-town girl trying to help
00:50:54mend one broken heart at a time.
00:51:01Everything okay?
00:51:03Uh, of course.
00:51:05So, Serena, I would be remiss if I didn't ask you about your last relationship ending.
00:51:13Oh, I didn't realize we were going to be covering that.
00:51:17Uh, if you're okay with it.
00:51:19I only ask because rumors of the breakup have become a bit invasive.
00:51:24And since you deal in romance, I have an obligation to the readers to inquire.
00:51:29You know, part of my job is advising people when their relationship isn't working.
00:51:40And I had to be honest with myself and with him.
00:51:44We each deserve our own happiness and wish each other the best.
00:51:49If that means we have to stand alone or with someone else, well, then that's what we need to do.
00:51:58Well, that's great.
00:51:58I can see why you're the person to dole out advice.
00:52:02Thank you for answering.
00:52:03And I must say that some advice you gave on a previous episode helped me with my relationship with my ex, too.
00:52:10Oh, really?
00:52:11Oh, I'm glad to hear it.
00:52:12Yes, it was an episode about closure.
00:52:17And you were talking about the need to take things slow.
00:52:21What was it that you were saying?
00:52:22Oh, well, you know, there have been so many.
00:52:28There is no timeline for healing.
00:52:32Yeah, that's right.
00:52:33There's no timeline for healing.
00:52:36You were telling your listeners not to rush through the process of loss to live in the feelings on their own schedule.
00:52:46Because there's no timeline for healing.
00:52:51Right, it made me wish that I had your podcast during that breakup.
00:52:56Though I'm happy now people get to use that advice when they may need it the most.
00:53:02Well, I hope those people buy merchandise.
00:53:13And of course, I am glad I could have been of help and healing to you and to all of my listeners.
00:53:21Do you need a couple minutes before we proceed with a few more questions?
00:53:28Actually, I have an even better idea.
00:53:30I was thinking, what if you could really see me in my element?
00:53:36You want me to attend a recording of yours?
00:53:38Even better.
00:53:40You are going to escort me to the National Podcast Awards at the end of the week.
00:53:46Um, I actually don't date.
00:53:50Oh, platonically, Jack, really.
00:53:55It's going to be a fabulous party.
00:53:57You'll get to see me among members of the industry.
00:54:00It'll be a great insider perspective for you.
00:54:04We'll have a great time.
00:54:05I won't take no for an answer.
00:54:10Okay, uh, I guess I'm in.
00:54:15Hooray!
00:54:16I hope you packed a suit.
00:54:21You know, I don't know about you, but I am famished.
00:54:26Maybe we could take this little interview to lunch?
00:54:28Sure, I can do that.
00:54:32Abby will be joining us.
00:54:34Oh, Abby is so busy, unfortunately.
00:54:37But don't worry.
00:54:38She'll be at the Podcast Awards as well.
00:54:41I like to give my employees little perks whenever I can, you know?
00:54:45Let me grab my things.
00:54:48Okay.
00:54:48I think to be qualified to give advice, you really have to live, you know?
00:54:59Actually, that's a good segue.
00:55:02What advice would you give this couple?
00:55:05Well, I don't know them, silly.
00:55:08Yeah, I know, but based off their body language, do you have any initial insights?
00:55:15I think they need to go see a stylist together.
00:55:18Oh, my goodness sakes, I'm so sorry, Jack.
00:55:26Who's the new guy?
00:55:28Just smile and wave.
00:55:30Does this happen to you often?
00:55:33Such a bother.
00:55:36Seriously, if you just smile, they'll take their picture and go.
00:55:44Beautiful.
00:55:48I just wish people would see me as a normal person, you know?
00:56:04Thanks, Russ.
00:56:06As always, I appreciate the description.
00:56:08Anytime, Serena.
00:56:10Pleasure doing business with you.
00:56:19Lucy, you need two hands for that.
00:56:22Oh, Abby, this is your boss, right?
00:56:24Yep, that's Serena.
00:56:27And that's the guy you like?
00:56:28Uh, Bryn.
00:56:31What? We value honesty in our house.
00:56:34I don't like him like him.
00:56:35It's professional.
00:56:38What did I say about valuing honesty?
00:56:40What?
00:56:42Okay, maybe I like him a little.
00:56:46But it doesn't even matter.
00:56:48He lives in New York.
00:56:50He hates love.
00:56:52And he thinks Serena's a brilliant one.
00:56:56But you're the brilliant one.
00:56:58Yeah, I mean, you're the real writer of Love's Listening.
00:57:01If he likes her words, he likes your words.
00:57:04Yeah, but if I tell him, I could get fired.
00:57:07I think if you like him, you should just tell him.
00:57:10Agreed.
00:57:12If you start putting yourself out there in love,
00:57:15maybe you'll start getting what you want at work.
00:57:20You've been hiding since your breakup.
00:57:23Yeah, it's been literally years.
00:57:27You're right.
00:57:29I know, it's just, I always thought that
00:57:33it would be like that told us growing up.
00:57:35You have to keep your head down, work hard,
00:57:38and you'll get rewarded.
00:57:39I love that, but that advice doesn't really work for women.
00:57:46What do I always tell you?
00:57:47Don't be afraid to say what you want and what you deserve.
00:57:50That's right.
00:57:52The work hard is only part of it.
00:57:54You have to stand up for yourself, too.
00:57:56Always remember that.
00:57:57Of course.
00:58:01Okay, let's finish this off.
00:58:03I'm starving.
00:58:09Cassie, I think you know the answer to your question deep down,
00:58:15but maybe you just don't want to admit it.
00:58:18How about you?
00:58:18I don't know.
00:58:21I just feel like we could compromise.
00:58:23I don't know.
00:58:24I don't know.
00:58:25Well, compromise can be a great thing,
00:58:28unless you end up resenting someone for it later.
00:58:32Could you leave your dream job,
00:58:34move across the country, away from your support network,
00:58:37and not resent him for it six months from now?
00:58:40Probably not.
00:58:45Well, then I'm so sorry to say it, but I think you have your answer.
00:58:51It's better to have this hard, honest conversation with him now,
00:58:55than bottle it up and resent him for it later.
00:58:59Perhaps the two of you could try long distance for a while.
00:59:02Maybe see how it goes.
00:59:03You're right.
00:59:06I think I knew the answer, but I needed to hear it.
00:59:08Thank you, Serena.
00:59:11Of course, Cassie.
00:59:13Love's Listening is rooting for you no matter what you decide.
00:59:18Thank you so much for calling in.
00:59:22And thank you, everyone, for tuning in today.
00:59:26Give us a call if you need any advice.
00:59:29And as always, darlings, I'm Serena Shepard and Love's Listening.
00:59:35The engineer says we're clear.
00:59:41Excellent.
00:59:47Hey.
00:59:48You're trending on Twitter.
00:59:49Oh.
00:59:52Oh, my.
00:59:56Looks like the highest live numbers ever.
00:59:59Nearly five million listeners.
01:00:00I think this calls for some bubbly.
01:00:08Okay, I'm gonna go get it.
01:00:09Oh, Abby, you wouldn't know which bottle was celebratory.
01:00:12I'll get it.
01:00:14Meet me in the main room?
01:00:15Sure.
01:00:22Congratulations.
01:00:25That's Serena's show.
01:00:26Is it?
01:00:30What are all these notes you keep flashing in front of her?
01:00:33They're just timing notes to let her know when to wrap it up or move on.
01:00:39Uh-huh.
01:00:42Well, are we doing her?
01:00:44Yeah.
01:00:56You know, I don't have any good bottles of bubbly.
01:01:05Let's go out to celebrate.
01:01:07Yeah, okay.
01:01:08Sure.
01:01:10I'll go grab my purse.
01:01:11Oh, no, Abby, there's so much to do to prepare for the podcast awards.
01:01:15I need you here, manning the fort while I'm out.
01:01:17Oh, I can move things around.
01:01:19No problem.
01:01:20Oh, no, Abby, you have so many more important things to tend to.
01:01:23Serena, I can take care about it later.
01:01:27It's not a big deal.
01:01:29I think you should sit this one out.
01:01:33I need a few things done while I'm out.
01:01:35I'll get you the list.
01:01:38Meet you outside, Jack?
01:01:39Do not ever contradict me in front of anyone ever again.
01:01:57Sorry, now.
01:01:58If you have free time, we'll remedy that.
01:02:01Keep your phone on.
01:02:10I think I need to come home.
01:02:12Do you have everything you need for the story?
01:02:15It's complicated.
01:02:18The assistant?
01:02:20No.
01:02:22Why?
01:02:23What do you mean?
01:02:25Jack.
01:02:25Nothing happened, okay?
01:02:27I'm a professional.
01:02:28It's not like that.
01:02:30But this whole situation is strange.
01:02:32You know, I don't think Serena is who she says she is, but
01:02:36I can't accuse her without something solid.
01:02:39Then it sounds like you don't have everything you need for a story.
01:02:42This is not the story I was supposed to be writing.
01:02:47No, but this one sounds better.
01:02:50Stick with it.
01:02:51Goodbye, Jack.
01:02:55Bye, Diane.
01:03:07Bye.
01:03:22To the girl make-up.
01:03:25Don't have it.
01:03:26You're late.
01:03:27And you're a mess.
01:03:29Serena, let me do a ton of extra errands.
01:03:32Put me up against the wall and make me look fabulous.
01:03:35I'm gonna take a nap while you're doing it.
01:03:36Uh, no, you're not.
01:03:38Let's get this over a cafecito.
01:03:39We have a lot of work to do.
01:03:49Hello, and welcome to the National Podcast Awards ceremony.
01:03:53Tonight, we get to see the faces behind some of the most fascinating voices in audio.
01:03:59Entering now is Serena Shepard, host of the immensely popular podcast, loves listening.
01:04:04Serena, you look stunning, as always.
01:04:07Thank you so much.
01:04:09You're up for podcast of the year.
01:04:11How are you feeling?
01:04:13Absolutely fabulous.
01:04:15Such an honor.
01:04:17And is this your date tonight?
01:04:19Oh, yes.
01:04:20This is Jack Whitman, the renowned journalist from the Times Daily.
01:04:26Isn't he fabulous?
01:04:28Are you two together?
01:04:29No, uh, we just came to the event together.
01:04:33Will you, I'm sorry, will you excuse me for a minute?
01:04:36Of course.
01:04:36He's just a little camera shy.
01:04:43You understand.
01:04:44Of course.
01:04:46Will you excuse me for a minute?
01:04:49Yes, of course.
01:04:49Good luck tonight, Serena.
01:04:55It looks like love's not only listening, it is speaking up tonight on the red carpet.
01:04:59Entering now is...
01:05:03Sorry.
01:05:14Serena, I don't know what that was, but I don't appreciate it.
01:05:18I don't understand.
01:05:19Most men would be thrilled to be out with me.
01:05:20I am not most men.
01:05:22I feel like I have been more than patient with this whole situation, but I am a journalist.
01:05:27I am doing a story on you.
01:05:30We are not dating each other, and you know that.
01:05:32So what's going on?
01:05:34I just...
01:05:36I will walk out on this event, and I will include it in my story.
01:05:42Wait!
01:05:45I'm sorry, okay?
01:05:48I am the voice of a romance friend, and the press since the breakup has been humiliating.
01:05:54I was just trying to save face.
01:05:57Are you happy?
01:05:58I understand that, and I appreciate your honesty.
01:06:02But I am not to be used like some puppet in front of the press.
01:06:05I am the press, okay?
01:06:07And I'm a professional.
01:06:09This is business.
01:06:12Well, you seemed awfully comfortable with Abby the other day.
01:06:16Was that professional as well?
01:06:18Maybe get off your high horse.
01:06:21Okay, okay.
01:06:21What do you want me to say?
01:06:24You're such a catch.
01:06:26I can't believe you're single.
01:06:27What do you want me to say, Jack?
01:06:30You know what?
01:06:31You're the advice guru.
01:06:32You figure it out.
01:06:45Have a good rest of your evening, Serena.
01:06:59Mm-hmm.
01:06:59Everyone calm down.
01:07:10She's just my assistant.
01:07:13Let's find out.
01:07:14Hello, what show are you with?
01:07:15Hi, I'm Abby Roig, and I work on Love's Listening.
01:07:20Oh, congratulations on the nomination.
01:07:22Thank you so much.
01:07:23I'm so excited to be here, nervous.
01:07:26Can you tell?
01:07:27You're doing great.
01:07:28But can I ask you about your dress?
01:07:30It is so unique.
01:07:30Who designed it?
01:07:32It's a Bryn Roig original, and I'm so lucky to be wearing one of her garments.
01:07:38Look, it has pockets.
01:07:40That is fabulous, and I have to admit, I'm a bit jealous about the pockets.
01:07:44Have a fun night, Abby.
01:07:45Thank you so much, and have a great evening.
01:07:48So many exciting things happening.
01:08:01Serena, hi, you look good.
01:08:02Could you give me a soda water with lemon?
01:08:05My voice is strained from talking with the press, and I need to be able to give my acceptance speech.
01:08:15You look, wow.
01:08:27I mean, really, wow.
01:08:31I wish I could say the same about your tie.
01:08:34It's terrible, isn't it?
01:08:36Serena picked it out.
01:08:39You know what?
01:08:41Better.
01:08:43Much better.
01:08:45Do you think that we could talk?
01:08:51I mean, not for the story, just it might be nice to catch up.
01:08:58That sounded like catch up.
01:08:59I don't want catch up.
01:09:00I just want to talk.
01:09:03Are you okay?
01:09:07What I'm trying to say is, I just want to be honest with you.
01:09:12Would that be okay?
01:09:12I want to be honest with you too, Jack.
01:09:16There's something very important that I have to do.
01:09:18Attention, everyone.
01:09:20It is time to announce the winners of this year's National Podcast Award.
01:09:24I have to say this to Serena, we'll catch up later.
01:09:43Yeah.
01:09:54And now, for the most prestigious award of the night, here are the nominees for Best Podcast
01:10:00of the Year.
01:10:07Running Wild with Chris McGowan and Lori Rogancat.
01:10:10Good Times with Erin Lang, hosted by Erin Lang.
01:10:25Music in Boulders, hosted by Austin and Hunter Barnes.
01:10:29Music in Boulders, and Love is Listening, hosted by Serena Shepard.
01:10:47Music in Boulders, hosted by
01:11:12thank you to everyone who's supported the podcast including my family and friends
01:11:18and thank you to all the listeners and everyone who's ever taken a chance on love
01:11:24and of course
01:11:33always believe in yourself even if no one else believes in you all you need to succeed
01:11:45is yourself
01:12:03happy there you are there is so much to do why don't you grab some champagne when will you promote
01:12:25me serena what you said that you were going to write me in your speech and you didn't you also
01:12:32said that you were going to announce me as a writer and producer once we win i need to know when
01:12:37abby we can discuss this later no no no no no no now i've been working for you for years
01:12:43in good faith with no boundaries 24 7 i write the entire show
01:12:48i need to know now happy there is so much to do we're gonna need to update all the promotion
01:12:56will those materials have my name on it abby you don't change a winning recipe okay my name is on
01:13:05the podcast it would muddle things up to have equal credit
01:13:07i quit serena
01:13:10okay i see playing hardball i'll give you a raise
01:13:16you're being ridiculous
01:13:18fine go i'm not gonna let this ruin my night jack is taking me dancing after this
01:13:27hey there you are
01:13:37good luck on your article
01:13:41wait you're not sticking around
01:13:44no i don't work on loves listening anymore
01:13:48wait a minute what
01:13:49i quit it's been me the whole time jack it's been my words my advice my love
01:13:57best of luck to get any substance out of serena and
01:14:03i wish you the best with the queen of fake romance
01:14:06i hope you're very happy together
01:14:10bruin
01:14:33i need matt's midlife crisis audio gear
01:14:39we're making a show
01:14:41abby
01:14:47abby
01:14:54where are you
01:15:12serena
01:15:14i need you here
01:15:1520 minutes ago
01:15:17serena
01:15:18i quit
01:15:19you meant that
01:15:22yes
01:15:23i'm not coming in
01:15:24no
01:15:25i don't accept that
01:15:28or you're going to have to
01:15:30abby
01:15:32i'm sorry
01:15:34okay
01:15:35i should have given you credit in my acceptance speech
01:15:38i i got carried away in the moment
01:15:39i should have promoted you sooner
01:15:42i just
01:15:43i
01:15:45felt insecure about not writing my own content
01:15:48i didn't want anyone to know
01:15:51i can't be dumped and have you leave me
01:15:56i just can't
01:15:57it's unacceptable
01:15:58please come back
01:16:01i'll give you credit
01:16:02i'll give you credit
01:16:02a raise
01:16:04even
01:16:05just
01:16:05come back
01:16:07okay
01:16:08serena
01:16:08that's all i wanted to hear for years
01:16:11thank you for your apology
01:16:13but i just can't
01:16:14i can't go back to work with you
01:16:17i don't know what i'm gonna do next but
01:16:19i need to bloom what i am planning now
01:16:25and i cannot wait for ideal conditions
01:16:32i hope you understand that
01:16:34i respect that
01:16:37thank you
01:16:39could you just pick up my coffee and dry cleaning first
01:16:49airport please
01:17:02wow
01:17:13this is something
01:17:16it will be
01:17:17i just took all the measurements i just
01:17:20i'm just clearing out
01:17:21is that the stuff
01:17:23some of it
01:17:24great
01:17:25thank you
01:17:26mike
01:17:29destined
01:17:31matt will be by later with a lot more stuff
01:17:34he's also gonna help you soundproof this place
01:17:37that matt is a keeper
01:17:39i think so too
01:17:40thank you so much both of you
01:17:43abby no
01:17:49really brad stuff
01:17:50what is that
01:17:52i'll take those
01:17:53okay
01:17:55yay you did it
01:18:07good riddance
01:18:09what is that little paper
01:18:11just from a fortune cookie
01:18:13the dinner
01:18:15jab took me to
01:18:16have you
01:18:25seen the local news today
01:18:27or been on social media
01:18:28no
01:18:30why
01:18:30i am sorry honey
01:18:51don't let this put a damper on your exciting day
01:18:53it won't
01:18:54you know like i just
01:18:56i don't know i just thought that he was a better judge of character than that
01:18:59i hope they're happy together
01:19:02i really do
01:19:06you know for the first time ever i feel like i'm finally focusing on myself
01:19:11i can't control anyone else
01:19:14well that's the spirit
01:19:16hey
01:19:34hey
01:19:36they washing windows or something
01:19:39no
01:19:41no just
01:19:41wondering what new york would look like with palm trees
01:19:44so are you gonna reach out to jack
01:19:47let him know about your show release
01:19:50no
01:19:50i don't
01:19:51i don't want to get distracted now
01:19:52i kind of feel
01:19:55embarrassed
01:19:56actually
01:19:57embarrassed
01:19:58where are you embarrassed
01:19:59he's the one who fell for serena's lies
01:20:01right
01:20:02but
01:20:02i've been lying to him since
01:20:03the beginning
01:20:04and i'm part of the reason why he believes that she's so great
01:20:09you know and
01:20:11you know i can't be mad at that
01:20:14i don't think it's the same
01:20:16thing
01:20:17maybe it's not
01:20:18but still dishonest
01:20:20and i know how important honesty is to him
01:20:23it's wonderful jack
01:20:25i'd say it's your best work yet
01:20:27wait
01:20:27really
01:20:29it's not your usual prestige piece
01:20:32but you had a lot of heart in it
01:20:34you should be proud of it
01:20:36we're running it sunday
01:20:38wow
01:20:39on sunday
01:20:40on the front page
01:20:42my piece is going to be on the front page of the sunday edition
01:20:47it is
01:20:48well
01:20:49thank you diane
01:20:51thank you
01:20:52for trusting in me
01:20:53of course
01:20:54it's such great work
01:20:56there is one more thing
01:20:58we have a senior columnist position opening up that we'd like to fill internally
01:21:02wow
01:21:04i mean
01:21:05that would be awesome
01:21:07i don't know what to say
01:21:09at the miami office
01:21:11i thought maybe you'd consider it seeing that you're considering new things these days
01:21:15i don't know if i can be that open
01:21:19i know but you're looking for something bigger
01:21:21maybe a change of perspective
01:21:23some place with more palm trees
01:21:29and it also means that the whole profile is built up lies
01:21:35and that's a pretty huge deal for
01:21:37for a journalist
01:21:39if the paper finds out
01:21:41i hadn't thought about that
01:21:43yeah it's also complicated
01:21:45i need some time to process
01:21:50i think
01:21:52okay
01:21:53well i'll be here for whatever you need
01:21:56thank you sister
01:21:58i love you
01:21:59love you too
01:22:00change is hard
01:22:04and change
01:22:06can be scary
01:22:07like really scary
01:22:08but sometimes the biggest rewards
01:22:11come from facing your fears
01:22:13and running right into the change
01:22:15hard first
01:22:17so that's what i'm doing now
01:22:19i'm running into the change
01:22:20and it's scary
01:22:22but i hope you come along with me
01:22:24so let's get into it
01:22:26i want to hear from you
01:22:28i want to know what you're changing
01:22:29what are you afraid of change
01:22:30and how can i help you do it
01:22:34and let's face the fear together
01:22:36i'm abby roy
01:22:38and this is new perspective
01:22:39and we'll be right back
01:22:42with the calls
01:22:43after a short commercial break
01:22:44how did it sound
01:22:48sounds great
01:22:49okay great
01:22:50sounds great
01:22:51audio quality is spotless
01:22:53no lag
01:22:54i think we're ready for live calls
01:22:56thank you so much for doing this
01:22:58i really appreciate it
01:22:59especially after
01:22:59you know on the weekends
01:23:01no don't worry about it
01:23:02honestly a lot of podcasters
01:23:04record from home
01:23:05i'm excited to be on board
01:23:06okay
01:23:07let's be right back
01:23:08cool
01:23:09um let's just test the line
01:23:11uh
01:23:12you hearing me okay
01:23:14all right
01:23:15and
01:23:16ready
01:23:17and
01:23:18we're
01:23:19back
01:23:19congratulations to you
01:23:23raise
01:23:23i know firsthand
01:23:25how scary
01:23:26could be
01:23:26change of career
01:23:27but
01:23:29you should be proud of yourself
01:23:30for taking the leap
01:23:31thank you for sharing your wins
01:23:41with me
01:23:41simon
01:23:42i know that it's a beautiful thing
01:23:44to get a win
01:23:45and
01:23:46it's even more special
01:23:48if you can share it with someone
01:23:49best of luck
01:23:50and thanks for listening
01:23:51okay everyone
01:24:06so i'm hearing kieran is telling me that we have one last caller on the line
01:24:10hi caller
01:24:12welcome to a new perspective
01:24:14why are you scared of and how can we help
01:24:17hi abby
01:24:20can i get a name for you
01:24:24caller
01:24:25this is jack
01:24:28i was hoping you could help me out with some advice
01:24:32um
01:24:33yes jack
01:24:35shoot
01:24:36what are you afraid of
01:24:40i'm afraid
01:24:44that i may have lost the shot with someone really truly special
01:24:48it was a huge mistake and
01:24:51i left town before i had the chance to clear the air with her
01:24:54well
01:24:57that sounds like a big miscommunication
01:25:00but
01:25:02if she's the special one
01:25:05she'll come clean
01:25:06and she'll accept the part of the
01:25:09of the situation also
01:25:11honesty is so important
01:25:14i
01:25:15couldn't agree more
01:25:18the thing is
01:25:20i'm back in town
01:25:22and i really
01:25:24want to see her
01:25:25have i
01:25:27missed my chance
01:25:29i'm afraid
01:25:31i'll never get to tell her how i feel in person
01:25:34and
01:25:36what is that that you want to tell her
01:25:38that
01:25:40she's managed to turn this cynic into a romantic
01:25:43well
01:25:47jack
01:25:48this podcast
01:25:49is about
01:25:51facing your fears
01:25:54why don't you
01:25:59take her to the most
01:26:01romantic spot
01:26:02in the city
01:26:03and tell her
01:26:05how you feel
01:26:05jack
01:26:11i'm on my way
01:26:15there's never a cow
01:26:19when you need one
01:26:19in the city
01:26:20hello
01:26:22hi abby
01:26:23yes this is abby roy
01:26:25who's calling please
01:26:26sounds like a great idea
01:26:27on my way
01:26:28yes
01:26:29um
01:26:29thank you so much
01:26:31hello
01:26:34this is abby roy
01:26:35who's calling
01:26:36hello
01:26:43hello is this abby roy
01:26:46from a new perspective podcast
01:26:47yes
01:26:48who's calling please
01:26:49this is michael joseph
01:26:50from the limelight podcast network
01:26:52wow yes i love limelights
01:26:54i'm glad to hear that i was calling to see if you'd be open to discuss hosting your podcast under the limelight umbrella
01:26:59listen
01:27:07you made it
01:27:08it's kind of a weird thing
01:27:10that article
01:27:12it was so beautiful jack
01:27:15so honest
01:27:16it's real
01:27:17i'm glad you liked it
01:27:21i'm so sorry that i lied to you
01:27:24i felt so bad about it
01:27:27i never meant for it to get out of hand
01:27:29but now my phone is
01:27:31lighting off with all these networks
01:27:33that they're interested in my show
01:27:35because of you
01:27:36thanks to you
01:27:37you're
01:27:40you inspire me to have this confidence
01:27:43to bloom where i was planted
01:27:46well you've earned
01:27:47every bit of success yourself abby
01:27:49and you're only doing your job
01:27:52from day one
01:27:54you've only ever been
01:27:55your authentic self with me
01:27:57i'm
01:27:58sorry i didn't realize that from the beginning
01:28:00i was
01:28:02scared
01:28:03and i didn't want to admit that to myself
01:28:06i should have told you i had feelings for you the second that i knew
01:28:10i should have
01:28:11told you at dinner
01:28:13at dinner
01:28:15it's you
01:28:24the real you
01:28:26it is you too
01:28:43it is you
01:28:56it is you
01:28:58it is you
01:29:00it is you
01:29:12it is you
01:29:14it is you
01:29:27it is you
01:29:40it is you
01:29:53it is you
01:30:06it is you
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