The Radke Show

🎧 SHOW NOTESThis episode is a little messy, a little tired, and very real.Melissa and David open the show doing what they always do — shooting the breeze — but it quickly becomes clear they’re worn down. Between an exhausting church Christmas musical, emotional counseling sessions, menopause, sick parents, and the general weight of life, this one almost didn’t get recorded.But Melissa couldn’t let the episode pass — because they’re in the middle of sharing the top five things older generations want younger generations to know, and today’s lesson mattered too much to skip.The fourth lesson is simple, heavy, and honest: choose carefully who you marry.What follows is not marriage advice from a pedestal, but a real conversation about why long-term marriages survive storms, what “opposites attract” gets wrong, and why core beliefs matter more than personality differences. Melissa and David talk about faith, family, vows, counseling, menopause, caregiving, and the kind of love that shows up quietly when it counts.They end the episode with a story that says everything they mean — not with words, but with a small basket, an Uber ride, and a kind of love that extends to family.⭐ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS* Melissa showing up on camera exactly as she is — flat hair, confidence intact* Why the Radkes almost skipped recording this episode* The exhaustion of church Christmas productions and long service days* Seeing a counselor together and why they openly recommend it* A reminder that not every podcast episode comes from a “good day”* The fourth life lesson from older generations: choose carefully who you marry* Why “opposites attract” is misunderstood in long-term marriages* The difference between personality differences and core beliefs* Faith, family, and shared values as the real foundation of marriage* A story about caregiving, aging parents, and love in action* Why loving someone’s family matters more than grand gestures* Ending the episode with laughter, Christmas songs, and tired joy⏱️ TIMESTAMPS & TOPICS00:00 – Opening and shooting the breeze01:20 – Feeling like they’ve been hit by a truck02:10 – Remi and Rocco home for Christmas02:50 – Melissa’s hair, confidence, and showing up as-is04:00 – Public access TV jokes and visual chaos06:40 – Church Christmas musical exhaustion09:35 – Counseling together and why it matters11:30 – Why this episode almost didn’t happen13:40 – Holiday break announcement15:10 – Introducing the fourth life lesson16:00 – Beautiful You supplement break17:05 – Life lesson #4: Choose carefully who you marry18:15 – Why “opposites attract” doesn’t hold up long-term20:45 – Personality differences vs. core beliefs22:30 – Faith, family, and values as anchors25:05 – A story about a marriage that didn’t last28:00 – Why vows are often treated as transactional31:15 – Being honest about marriage seasons35:00 – Menopause, caregiving, and emotional strain37:00 – David taking Melissa’s parents to a doctor appointment39:15 – The Uber basket story41:00 – Loving someone who loves your family42:10 – Substack mention42:30 – Christmas song game48:00 – Closing and final encouragement🔗 LINKS MENTIONEDMel Robbins Podcast (Dr. Karl Pillemer – 30 Lessons for Living)https://www.melrobbins.com/episode/episode-344/📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen🎥 The Radke Show Playlist → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube🎧 LISTEN EVERYWHERE🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook📖 Melissa’s New Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 ARE YOU READY TO BECOME AN INSIDER?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages from Melissa* Twice-monthly We’re Here for You Wednesday advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts* Real community conversation👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎯 SHOW NOTESIn this episode, Melissa and David unpack the third life lesson from gerontologist Dr. Karl Pillemer’s research — “Travel More” — and what older adults most regret when looking back on their lives. But first: Walgreens will not stop calling Melissa, both Radkes have had their debit cards stolen (again), and Fashion Nova makes an unexpected cameo.From card fraud to cross-country memories, from East Texas bubbles to big-world perspective shifts, Melissa and David dive into why experiences matter more than things… and why you should probably jiggle the gas-pump credit-card reader.This one is warm, funny, thoughtful, and a little chaotic — classic Radkes.✨ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS* Walgreens is harassing Melissa like an ex who wants closure* Both Radke debit cards get stolen — again* Fashion Nova + Jiffy Lube + prison commissary = fraud cocktail* Why older adults say “travel more” is their biggest life regret* Melissa: “I don’t have a deep desire to see other cultures… is that bad?”* Why travel doesn’t have to be international to expand your world* The Alaska road-trip memory that shaped David* Conversations about money, privilege, perspective, and core memories* Melissa reveals the one thing strangers don’t know about her (and maybe don’t want to)⏱ TIMESTAMPS & TOPICS00:00 – Walgreens won’t stop calling01:24 – Debit card theft… again02:56 – Fashion Nova, Jiffy Lube & prison commissary charges04:00 – Why servers shouldn’t steal our credit cards05:48 – PayPal & Venmo: the real identity-theft risk07:20 – Christmas gifts & stolen cards09:12 – The car-buying plot twist that changed everything11:37 – The “5 Life Lessons” series continues12:56 – Life Lesson #3: Travel More14:09 – Why older adults regret not traveling17:04 – Melissa confesses her shocking lack of wanderlust18:28 – Travel expands empathy — even inside the U.S.19:43 – Getting out of your bubble21:39 – David’s Alaska road-trip upbringing23:55 – Exploring America vs. the world27:11 – Cruise-excursion flashbacks29:12 – Affordable travel: the Radkes’ road-trip years31:31 – Travel as connection, community & core memories32:10 – Stretch Marks promo33:00 – Lightning-round questions for each other35:49 – Melissa’s secret (and horrifying) superpower37:03 – David’s secret skills & history40:20 – Dream travel destinations42:36 – Closing encouragement for listeners🔗 Links MentionedMel Robbins Podcast (Dr. Karl Pillemer – 30 Lessons for Living) → https://www.melrobbins.com/episode/episode-344/📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen🎧 Listen EverywhereApple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowAppleSpotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotifyYouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 Follow & SubscribeInstagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagramFacebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebookSubscribe to Stretch Marks → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 Are You Ready to Become an Insider?Paid subscribers get:* Weekday POV audio messages* Twice-monthly We’re Here for You Wednesday advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts* Community conversation access👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎧 SHOW NOTESMelissa and David unpack the life lessons you don’t fully understand until you’re older — marriage lessons, regrets that shaped them, and the habits they wish they’d started earlier. From social norms that need to die to the things you only learn after 20+ years with the same person, this is classic Radke honesty with a side of humor, humility, and “oh dang, that hit a nerve.”Also in this episode:the advice research of Dr. Karl Pillemer, the art of saying fewer dumb things in marriage, and why Melissa thinks some life regrets are actually a sign you grew up.⭐ Episode Highlights* Why regrets aren’t failures — they’re receipts of growth* The marriage habits they wish they’d started in their 20s* Why most people give bad advice (and how Pillemer’s research fixes it)* What Melissa’s learning in her “don’t be a martyr” era* How to apologize without adding a sermon, footnote, or side quest* The single hardest marriage skill nobody teaches* What older adults know that younger adults never believe⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Life lessons we wish we learned earlier06:10 – What older people know about regret12:40 – How marriage actually matures you19:55 – The “hard truths” phase of life25:45 – Dr. Karl Pillemer’s research28:30 – Melissa’s take on giving and receiving advice🔗 Links MentionedMel Robbins Podcast (Dr. Karl Pillemer – 30 Lessons for Living) → https://www.melrobbins.com/episode/episode-344/🔗 Listen Everywhere 🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube📚 Follow & Subscribe 📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook👋 Are You Ready to Become an Insider?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages — mini pep talks from Melissa* Twice-monthly “We’re Here for You Wednesday” advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts — deeper stories, behind the scenes* Community access for real conversation👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

📘 SHOW NOTES Melissa and David dive into the first of five life lessons from Cornell research on aging — and this week’s lesson is simple but brutal: Be honest.From birthdays that go off the rails, to hotel-room picnics, to teenagers creating Amazon wish lists, the Radkes talk about what it looks like to live “fair and square” (and where we don’t).Plus: why the Little White Lie Fast might wreck your week, how one Facebook lady got real bold, Melissa’s “poverty mindset” sermon, unexpected birthday surprises, and the Amazon Wishlist that’s blessing local high schoolers.And yes — Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss, LSU, and whether or not you can be a “man of your word” when the SEC is calling.⭐ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS* Melissa’s birthday: emotional rollercoaster → hotel → Tap & Pantry feast → hotel picnic → King of Queens* The High School Amazon Wishlist: how listeners blew past expectations* The Facebook lady with the “Carhartt Hat Attitude”* Poverty mindset vs. generosity mindset* Honesty as the #1 life lesson from elders* What “fair and square” really means* Affairs, business regrets & end-of-life confessions* Being a person of your word even when it’s inconvenient* SEC football, Lane Kiffin, loyalty, and big money* The Little White Lie Fast — 120 hours of radical honesty* White-lie examples: sour cream, watching the game, “I just left the house”* Melissa teaches boundaries (again)* Why broken promises hurt more than honest boundaries* “Reciprocity” — and why you get blessed when you bless others* A call to generosity for the teens who need it most⏱️ TIMESTAMPS & TOPICS00:00 – Shep the dog vs. David: Round 4301:00 – Melissa’s “Nice/Naughty” mug + birthday getaway recap02:00 – Business meeting on her birthday (1.4/10 rating)03:30 – Room-service-style Tap & Pantry picnic05:00 – Hotel blankets > hotel sheets06:00 – The bedroom surprise: new TV installation08:30 – Birthday wishes, Amazon wish list & the big give10:00 – High school girls, boys & their Amazon dreams12:00 – iPads, earbuds & perfume — generosity multiplies13:00 – The Facebook lady who “didn’t approve”14:00 – Poverty mindset vs. generosity mindset15:45 – God’s reciprocity: blessings given → blessings returned17:00 – Why praying for someone else changes everything18:30 – The Cornell study: 30 Lessons for Living19:30 – Lesson #1: Be Honest22:00 – Fair & square: character + integrity24:00 – Confessions at the end of life26:00 – Money, shortcuts & rebuilding your name29:00 – SEC football example (Lane Kiffin)32:00 – Being honest when it’s inconvenient34:00 – What actually brings peace in life35:00 – Broken promises vs. honest boundaries36:00 – The Little White Lie Fast38:00 – Can YOU do 120 hours without a white lie?41:00 – Closing encouragement & reminders42:00 – Where the real Amazon wish list link is (and why Melissa had to clarify)🔗 LINKS MENTIONED🔹 Mel Robbins Podcast (Dr. Karl Pillemer – 30 Lessons for Living) → https://www.melrobbins.com/episode/episode-344/🔹 High School Kids Amazon Wishlist → bit.ly/hswishlist25🔹 Beautiful Yu Health Supplements → bit.ly/beautifulyu🔹 Beautiful Yu Affiliate Info → bit.ly/beautifulyuaffiliate🎧 LISTEN EVERYWHEREApple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowAppleSpotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify🎥 The Radke Show Playlist → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBEInstagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagramFacebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 ARE YOU READY TO BECOME AN INSIDER?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages from Melissa* Twice-monthly We’re Here for You Wednesday advice episodes* Monthly paid-only posts (the things Melissa won’t put everywhere)* Commenting access + real community discussions👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

✨ SHOW NOTES This week, Melissa and David record the podcast from a hotel room that looks just enough like a prison cell to make Melissa whisper the truth. Between Thanksgiving drama, burst water pipes, and half the house flooding, it’s a miracle these two made it to the microphone at all.You’ll hear the full breakdown of:• The Great Post-Thanksgiving Flood of 2025• Remi and Rocco’s ongoing life hashtag DRAMA• Melissa taking over her mother’s Thanksgiving traditions as Gene battles exhaustion• A dressing recipe that nearly caused a family split• David’s stovetop stuffing betrayal• Stranger Things Season 5 pajama-only viewing• And Melissa’s birthday wish — involving Amazon, high school kids, and the exact kind of generosity that makes David panicThen… the water-in-your-mouth guessing game.Yes. Someone nearly drowned. Yes. Melissa spit. Yes. David complained.And yes — you’re absolutely going to laugh.🔥 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * Recording the episode in a hotel cubby that “looks like prison”* The entire house flooding the morning after Thanksgiving* Remi coming home from college exhausted and emotional* Melissa taking over Thanksgiving prayer and dressing duties* The saga of stovetop stuffing vs. “proper” dressing* Stranger Things watch-party that only required pajamas* Melissa’s birthday wish: helping overlooked high school students* The Amazon Wish List project explained step-by-step* Giving Tuesday and why Melissa wants THIS instead of gifts* The chaotic ChatGPT “water-in-your-mouth” word game* David nearly waterboarding himself* Final goodbyes… and Melissa picking Woodfired Pizza for her birthday lunch⏱️ TIMESTAMPS & TOPICS00:00 – Recording from a hotel “prison cell”02:00 – Why Melissa avoided filming before they left03:40 – The Thanksgiving flood disaster05:15 – Remi & Rocco’s teenage drama06:10 – A different kind of Thanksgiving with Melissa’s mom not well08:00 – Who gets to pray at holidays (and why the UPS man almost did)09:50 – The dressing vs. stovetop stuffing controversy13:00 – Nap traditions & dominoes14:00 – College kids coming home exhausted15:45 – Stranger Things Season 5 viewing17:30 – Melissa’s birthday announcement18:00 – Beautiful Yu ad read (per transcript)21:25 – The Lavender Fields latte disaster23:00 – Melissa’s birthday wish: the high school Christmas project24:00 – How the Amazon Wish List works26:00 – Giving Tuesday explained27:30 – Why Melissa cares so deeply about these teens29:00 – Substack promo29:40 – The chaotic water-word game33:50 – David nearly drowning35:25 – Final wrap-up & Woodfired Pizza lunch🔗 LINKS MENTIONED 🎒 High School Students’ Amazon Wish List → https://bit.ly/hswishlist25📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen🎥 The Radke Show Playlist → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube📢 LISTEN EVERYWHERE🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook📖 Melissa’s New Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 BECOME A PAID SUBSCRIBER ON SUBSTACKGet access to:* Weekday POV Audio Messages* Twice-monthly We’re Here For You Wednesday advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts* Community discussions & comments👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎙️ Show NotesMelissa and David are back—and this one’s got everything: Snapchat filters gone wrong, college panic attacks, and how Melissa accidentally looked like a hot truck driver. They also share Melissa’s recent guest appearance on Plucking Up with Liz Bohannon, why she cried through the entire interview, and how it inspired a brand-new holiday giving project with the help of ChatGPT (yes, really).Plus: Christmas decorations gone rogue, Beautiful YU’s brand-new BP-157 peptide, and Melissa’s annual “toughen up, buttercup” parenting reminder to Remi.💬 Episode Highlights* Melissa’s Snapchat filter moment that backfired hilariously* Her emotional interview on Plucking Up with Liz Bohannon* A heartfelt talk about loneliness, vulnerability, and faith* Why she’s starting a holiday giving campaign for high schoolers* ChatGPT’s advice that changed her approach to generosity* Ashley’s surprise Christmas decorating mission for Melissa* Melissa’s favorite holiday chaos and why she can’t quit David⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Melissa loses her voice (again)04:00 – The Snapchat filter fiasco05:00 – Melissa on Plucking Up with Liz Bohannon08:00 – The freshman flu strikes Remi11:00 – Melissa’s college panic attack story14:00 – Calling The Arsenio Hall Show (and getting billed for it)15:00 – Listener with 43 cruises writes in17:00 – What is Substack (and why you should join Stretch Marks)20:00 – Rocco’s insane Christmas wish list21:00 – Melissa’s Beautiful YU wellness favorites22:00 – Introducing Beautiful YU’s new BP-157 peptide25:00 – The Christmas surprise from Melissa’s friend Ashley29:00 – ChatGPT helps Melissa plan her holiday giving project33:00 – Teachers funding high schoolers’ Christmas bags35:00 – “Perfection is the enemy of momentum”37:00 – Melissa’s Substack stretch marks reminder39:00 – The Radkes’ Holiday Lip Reading Game🔗 Links Mentioned🎙️ Listen to Melissa on Plucking Up with Liz Bohannon → bit.ly/PluckingUpTable🩵 Beautiful YU – Health Supplements → bit.ly/beautifulyu💊 Beautiful YU – BP-157 Regenerative Peptide → bit.ly/YUBPC157📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack🎧 Listen Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 Follow & Subscribe📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook📖 Melissa’s New Best Selling Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 Are You Ready to Become an Insider?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – mini pep talks from Melissa* Twice-monthly We’re Here for You Wednesday advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts — the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere* Community access for real conversation👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎙️ Show NotesMelissa and David are finally back on dry land — and they’ve got some things to say about cruise life. From surprise storms and buffet aversions to excursions gone wrong, this episode is the full post-cruise confessional you didn’t know you needed.Melissa opens up about earning the trip through Beautiful YU, how she ended up speaking on the final night, and why community means more to her now than ever. Plus: juggler entertainment, buffet trauma, and one extremely honest conversation about purpose.💬 Episode Highlights* Melissa’s cruise recap: what went right (and wrong)* How she earned a free cruise through Beautiful YU* Excursions, seasickness & marriage moments at sea* Why Melissa can’t handle buffets anymore* The “purpose” talk that made women cry (in a good way)* Inside the Beautiful YU community & affiliate program* Family updates: Nonie’s fight, Remi coming home, and gratitude in chaos⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Cruise recap: chaos at sea05:00 – Weather reroutes & Dominican detours09:00 – Excursions, naps & marriage negotiations13:00 – Why Melissa refuses to read history markers18:00 – Cruise shows, comedians & Peabo Bryson24:00 – The buffet rant heard around the world30:00 – Specialty dining & David’s Black Friday trick33:00 – What makes Beautiful YU different38:00 – Melissa’s closing speech: finding purpose44:00 – Roses, Thorns & Buds (Remi’s coming home!)🔗 Links Mentioned🩵 Beautiful YU – Health Supplements → bit.ly/beautifulyu💼 Beautiful YU – Affiliate Information → bit.ly/beautifulyuaffiliate🎧 Listen Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 Follow & Subscribe📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook📖 Melissa’s New Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 Are You Ready to Become an Insider?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – mini pep talks from Melissa* Twice-monthly We’re Here for You Wednesday advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts — the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere* Community access for real conversation👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎙️ Show NotesMelissa and David may be sailing through the Caribbean, but that doesn’t mean the laughs take a break! In this special cruisin’ episode, Melissa dusts off a vintage “Rise & Radke” broadcast from 2022—back when The Radke Show was a scrappy little Facebook Live with barking dogs, mismatched mugs, and a whole lot of chaos.From Walmart denim shorts to Broadway drama, massive pythons in Florida, and nudist pickleball (yep, you read that right), this flashback episode proves that while the hairstyles have changed, the humor hasn’t. Melissa also shares a heartfelt reminder about the one thing that’s stayed constant all these years: the power of community.💬 Episode Highlights* Melissa reveals how she won a cruise (and how that’s going)* Revisiting their early “Rise & Radke” episodes from Facebook Live* Denim short disasters and Walmart redemption stories* Broadway gossip: Beanie Feldstein, Lea Michele & Patti LuPone* Florida’s 18-foot python and Poland’s deadly “croissant monster”* School dress codes gone wild: Back to the Future or just Backward?* Nudist pickleball — the story no one asked for but everyone needed* Why community still matters more than ever⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Melissa wins a cruise & why she’s recording from paradise03:30 – Revisiting the early days of “Rise & Radke”10:00 – Coffee talk, brittle hair, and gut health revelations18:00 – Walmart shorts vs. boutique shorts showdown21:00 – Broadway gossip: Beanie, Lea & the curse of Funny Girl31:00 – Florida’s giant python & the croissant creature of Poland39:30 – Dress code drama: The Back to the Future school district46:00 – Nudist pickleball, Slurpees, and free Subway sandwiches53:00 – Why community and connection still matter most🔗 Links Mentioned📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen🎥 The Radke Show Playlist → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTubeBeautiful YU – Wellness & Beauty Supplements💡 Shop link: https://bit.ly/beautifulyuCheck out Beautiful YU for next-level wellness and beauty supplements that keep Melissa beautiful. Available at https://bit.ly/beautifulyu. 🎧 Listen Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 Follow & Subscribe📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook📖 Melissa’s New Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 Are You Ready to Become an Insider?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – mini pep talks from Melissa* Twice-monthly We’re Here for You Wednesday advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts — the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere* Community access for real conversation👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎙️ Show NotesMelissa and David are not getting divorced — but they are arguing about cups, YETIs, and why cleaning out a cabinet can nearly end a marriage. This week, they dive into the hilarious and all-too-real world of decision fatigue — how the smallest daily choices (like what’s for dinner) can drive even the happiest couples a little crazy.From parenting burnout to dinner-time meltdowns, Melissa opens up about feeling stretched thin and how “the 5-4-3-2-1 Process” just might save your next restaurant argument. (Spoiler: it’s genius.)💬 Episode Highlights* Cup chaos, coffee mugs, and the great “YETI war” of 2025* Decision fatigue and why it’s ruining marriages everywhere* Parenting overload: how kids drain your decision battery* The hand signal that saved their marriage* Dinner fights & the “5-4-3-2-1 Process” for picking a restaurant* Comfort food, emotional eating, and what our cravings really mean* Freestyle rap: Melissa vs. David — who wins the MC battle?⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – The Cup Drawer Meltdown05:20 – What Is Decision Fatigue?09:00 – Marriages, Mental Load & Communication13:45 – Parenting Burnout (and Kid Fatigue)18:00 – The “Stop Sign” Rule That Saved Their Marriage23:00 – Dinner Drama & The 5-4-3-2-1 Process29:00 – Comfort Food, Southern Style35:00 – “One Thing About Me” Freestyle Challenge42:20 – Wrapping Up & Listener Shout-Outs🔗 Links Mentioned📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen🎥 The Radke Show Playlist → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube🎧 Listen Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 Follow & Subscribe📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook📖 Melissa’s New Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 Are You Ready to Become an Insider?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – mini pep talks from Melissa* Twice-monthly “We’re Here for You Wednesday” advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts — the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere* Community access for real conversation👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🧩 Show NotesIf your marriage can survive technology, you’re probably doing better than most couples. Melissa and David take on IT, “smart” homes that aren’t so smart, tech arguments that could end relationships, and the everyday annoyances that come with living in a world that constantly wants to “update.”They also talk about the invisible labor of managing family tech chaos and why sometimes you just need to unplug before you lose your ever-loving mind.💬 Episode Highlights* Melissa’s tech meltdown * Why “dumb” homes may be a smart decisions* The emotional labor of managing devices for the whole family* How Wi-Fi arguments reveal deeper communication problems* Why turning everything off might be the smartest move of all⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Melissa vs. IT07:50 – Dumb Homes, Smart Marriages16:20 – Tech Overload and Family Burnout28:45 – When Wi-Fi Fights Become Relationship Fights38:10 – The Great Unplugging🔗 Links Mentioned📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen🎥 The Radke Show Playlist → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube🎧 Listen Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube💌 Follow & Subscribe📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook📖 Melissa’s New Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack👋 Are You Ready to Become an Insider?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – mini pep talks from Melissa* Twice-monthly “We’re Here for You Wednesday” advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts — the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere* Community access for real conversation👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

💬 What This Episode’s AboutFrom Pizza Hut food poisoning to saying “Yeehaw” over text, Melissa and David take on the social norms we all secretly hate.Do we really need to write thank-you notes? Are Super Bowl parties actually fun for anyone? And how did “Sorry I’m late, I didn’t want to come” become a personality trait?Plus, Melissa’s mom gets roasted for gala season, David declares war on greeting-card holidays, and the couple’s “Heath, Don’t Show Your Teeth” challenge leads to some truly unholy laughter.✨ Episode Highlights* Melissa’s Pizza Hut Incident and the mystery of the “dirty pepperoni”* The social norm she wishes would die: thank-you cards* David’s crusade against made-up holidays* Why Super Bowl parties should be outlawed* Melissa’s plea to “bring back being there” for people* The game that broke them both: Heath, Don’t Show Your Teeth⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Studio setup & Melissa’s cadaver pig knees03:00 – Pizza Hut food poisoning confession07:00 – What social norms need to go09:00 – Thank-you notes rant (sorry, Hallmark)17:00 – David’s problem with made-up holidays23:00 – The case against Super Bowl parties25:00 – Melissa’s plea to bring back community33:00 – The “Heath, Don’t Show Your Teeth” game39:00 – Wrapping up & viewer shout-outs🔗 Links Mentioned📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack 📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen 🎥 The Radke Show Playlist → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube📢 Listen Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple 🎧 Spotify → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify 📺 YouTube → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube 💌 Follow & Subscribe📱 Instagram – @TheRadkeShow → bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram 📘 Facebook – The Radkes → bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook 📖 Melissa’s New Book – Chicken-Fried Women → bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen 📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack 👋 Are You Ready to Become an Insider?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – mini pep talks from Melissa* Twice-monthly “We’re Here for You Wednesday” advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts — the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere* Community access for real conversation👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year → bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

💬 What This Episode’s AboutMelissa and David play a brand-new game called Loving, Liking & Loathing — the stuff they can’t live without, kinda like, and could happily throw out the window.From menopause creams and Pomifera oil to Rocco’s infectious laugh and Popeyes wings that “may or may not be gut bombs,” they cover it all with honesty, humor, and married-people chaos.Plus, Melissa admits she’s terrible at planners (even the ones she’s supposed to sell), David tries mouth tape and nearly has a panic attack, and together they invent the “Pantless Planner” for the rest of us.✨ Episode Highlights* Melissa’s viral video about stealing from her mom backfires big-time* David shares why Rocco’s laugh is his favorite sound on earth* Melissa raves about Pomifera Pure Oil and why it’s a menopause skin saver* The hormone cream conversation no one asked for (but you’ll learn from anyway)* David’s AI confession & Melissa’s refusal to let him marry a bot* The great Popeyes wing experiment (“gut bomb” included)* The planner Melissa loathes — and the chaotic version she’d actually buy⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Stealing from Mom & Social Media Backlash05:20 – The New Game: Loving, Liking & Loathing08:00 – David’s “Windshield Time” & Rocco’s Laugh12:00 – Melissa’s Skincare Secret: Pomifera Pure Oil16:00 – Menopause Creams & Hormone Confessions24:00 – David’s AI Helper (aka ChatGPT in Disguise)26:00 – Popeyes Wings & Reddit Gut Bombs29:00 – “Triggered” Talk & Netflix Documentary Tangents35:00 – Melissa’s Planner Rant & The Seat-of-Your-Pants Planner39:00 – Christmas Song Game & Couples Chaos🔗 Links Mentioned🧴 Pomifera Pure Oil → https://shop.pomifera.com/#/shop/detail/33081/from/1131746📔 Penny Pincher Planner → https://urlgeni.us/amzn/PPPlanner📢 Listen Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify📺 YouTube💌 Follow & Subscribe📖 Melissa’s Book → Chicken-Fried Women📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → melissaradke.substack.com📱 Instagram → @TheRadkeShow📱 Facebook → The Radkes👋 Ready to Go Deeper?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – Melissa’s mini pep talks & gut checks* Twice-monthly “We’re Here for You Wednesday” advice podcasts* Monthly paid-only posts – the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere* Community access for real conversations👉 Subscribe for $9/month or $90/year This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

💬 What This Episode’s AboutMelissa and David tackle why we remember some things and completely rewrite others — from Brian Williams’ “false memory” to the Ten Commandments at the University of Arkansas. The Radkes share a couple of amazing blessing they have received over the last couple of weeks as well. They mix faith, humor, and a little Gladwell to ask: what memories do we protect, which ones do we revise, and how does God fit in the middle of it all?Also in this episode: Family stories that change every retelling, and why Melissa believes even the little blessings deserve a hallelujah.✨ Episode Highlights* The Ten Commandments posted at the University of Arkansas and its symbolism* Malcolm Gladwell’s “Free Brian Williams” and the myth of perfect memory* Faith and forgetfulness in everyday life* Writing down the “little blessings” daily* David’s theory on family legends and selective storytelling* Why some truths matter more than facts⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Melissa’s Walmart greeter story & David’s memory fail07:48 – Brian Williams and the “false memory” discussion15:55 – Ten Commandments at the University of Arkansas24:42 – Faith, family rules, and what we misremember on purpose34:12 – Melissa’s “big and little blessings” lesson44:10 – Final thoughts on truth, grace & gratitude🔗 Links Mentioned🎧 Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History – “Free Brian Williams”📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack🎥 The Radke Show Playlist on YouTube📢 Listen or Watch Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify📺 YouTube💌 Follow & Subscribe📖 Melissa’s New Book → Chicken-Fried Women📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → melissaradke.substack.com📱 Instagram → @TheRadkeShow📱 Facebook → The Radkes👋 Ready to Go Deeper?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – pep talks & gut checks from Melissa* Twice-monthly “We’re Here for You Wednesday” advice podcasts with Melissa and David* Monthly paid-only posts (the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere)* Community access to join real conversations👉 Subscribe here for $9/month or $90/year This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

💬 What This Episode’s AboutMelissa and David tackle the viral TikTok “Get Yourself a Treat” and the chaos it unleashed — from Rocco’s Smashburger successes and Hot Sprite regrets to Tom Segura and Christina P.’s Your Mom’s House reaction. It’s a mix of marriage rants, parenting laughs, and life lessons served with fries and a side of truth.✨ Episode Highlights* Rocco’s grill disaster and Melissa’s proud mom moment* The “Get a Treat” TikTok and why it broke the internet* Tom Segura & Christina P. weigh in on treat culture* Melissa’s rant on participation trophies and adult entitlement* The Hot Sprite challenge * Why marriage sometimes just needs a Reese’s and silence⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Smashburger chaos & Rocco’s grill redemption06:10 – The hotel carpet argument of 202511:45 – TikTok’s “Get a Treat” and Melissa’s meltdown18:00 – Tom Segura & Christina P. (Your Mom’s House) reaction24:30 – Participation trophies vs. treat culture30:15 – The Hot Sprite Challenge of doom🔗 Links Mentioned🎧 Your Mom’s House Podcast (Tom Segura & Christina P.)🐕 Original TikTok – “Get Yourself a Treat” (clip referenced)📖 Melissa’s Book – Chicken-Fried Women📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack🎥 The Radke Show Playlist on YouTube📢 Listen Everywhere🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify📺 YouTube💌 Follow & Subscribe📖 Melissa’s New Book → Chicken-Fried Women📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → melissaradke.substack.com📱 Instagram → @TheRadkeShow📱 Facebook → The Radkes👋 Ready to Go Deeper?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV Audio Messages – pep talks & gut checks that hit home* Twice-monthly “We’re Here for You Wednesday” advice podcasts with Melissa and David* Monthly paid-only posts (the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere)* Real conversations in the Stretch Marks community👉 Subscribe here for $9/month or $90/year This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎙️ Show NotesThis week, Melissa welcomes her daughter Remi Radke home from college — and it’s one big surprise! From secret plans and fall-break lies to matching tattoos, late-night sushi, and scary movies, this episode is full of love, laughter, and chaos.Remi opens up about college life, making new friends, time management, and her dreams of studying abroad in Portugal. Then things get hilariously personal when Melissa plays “Red Flag, Green Flag” — and Remi realizes every scenario is about her.💡 Episode Highlights* Remi’s surprise return from college (and Melissa’s screaming reaction)* The story behind their matching micro-heart tattoos* Why movie theater popcorn is worth the trip — even without the movie* Life in Delta Gamma: Coke dates, swing dancing, and sorority fun* Managing time, making friends, and planning a summer in Portugal* Melissa’s sneaky “Red Flag, Green Flag” game — and how fast Remi catches on⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Welcome to The Radke Show01:00 – The surprise homecoming (and the big lie that made it work)04:00 – Movie theater popcorn & scary-movie nights06:00 – Matching tattoos & “romantic fingers”08:30 – College stories, Coke dates & Delta Gamma life15:00 – Study habits, planners & a dream trip to Portugal20:00 – Friendship, loyalty & how to argue with roommates26:00 – The “Red Flag, Green Flag” dating game33:40 – The big reveal: every red flag was about Remi🔗 Links🎧 Listen on Apple → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Listen on Spotify → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 Watch on YouTube → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube📖 Melissa’s New Book → Chicken-Fried Women📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → https://bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📱 Instagram → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📱 Facebook → https://bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook👋 Ready to Go Deeper?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV (Point of View) audio messages from Melissa — pep talks and gut checks from the middle of the mess.* Twice-Monthly We’re Here for You Wednesday advice podcasts with Melissa & David.* Monthly paid-only posts (the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere).* Access to comment and join real community conversations.👉 Subscribe here for $9/month or $90/year This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎙️ Show NotesIt’s the debut of We’re Here for You Wednesday! Melissa and David open the mailbag to answer real listener questions about marriage, menopause, empty nests and who really takes out the trash.There’s TMI about menopause sweats, some honest empty-nest truths about Remi and Rocco, and a very serious debate over laundry versus trash duty. Because some marriage battles never end — they just get funnier.💡 Episode Highlights* What We’re Here for You Wednesday is really about* Menopause meltdowns & why David calls it “West Texas Weather in Her Pajamas”* The truth about empty-nest life — and Remi’s missing forks* How to celebrate 12 years of marriage without going broke* The real answer to “Who does what around the house?”* Janie’s laundry heroics & Rocco’s trash crown⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Welcome to We’re Here for You Wednesday03:45 – Why Melissa started this advice series08:50 – Menopause and marriage: the unfiltered truth15:40 – Empty nest confessions & Remi updates19:15 – Anniversary ideas & dream trips on a budget25:05 – “Who Does What” game — laundry, trash, and Janie’s justice🔗 Links🎧 Listen on Apple → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple🎧 Listen on Spotify → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify📺 Watch on YouTube → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube📖 Melissa’s New Book → Chicken-Fried Women📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → https://bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📱 Instagram → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📱 Facebook → https://bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook👋 Ready to Go Deeper and receive two “We’re Here for You Wednesday” episodes a month?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV (Point of View) audio messages from Melissa — pep talks and gut checks from the middle of the mess.* Twice-monthly advice podcast We’re Here for You Wednesday with Melissa and David.* Monthly paid-only posts (the stuff Melissa doesn’t share everywhere).* Comment access & community conversation.👉 Subscribe here for $9/month or $90/year This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

🎙️ Show NotesAfter 31 years of marriage, Melissa and David have learned that “forgive and forget” isn’t a cliché — it’s a survival skill. In this funny, heartfelt episode, they share stories of candle-throwing, cookie sheets, and grace that grows through real fights.You’ll laugh, nod, and probably feel seen (especially if your spouse chews too loud).💡 Episode Highlights* How to forgive someone 11,315 times and still like them* What fighting fair actually looks like* Why forgiveness is more about your freedom than their apology* The “hand signal rule” that can save a marriage* Journaling, hand-raising, and the prayer that changed everything* “Forgive or Forget” game: towels, dishes, and petty payback stories⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Melissa’s solo travel & David’s “married bachelor” life06:15 – 31 years, 11,315 arguments, and counting12:00 – The five-minute rule for forgiveness19:30 – How to fight fair (and when to stop talking)27:45 – Journaling lies vs. truth in marriage39:20 – “Forgive or Forget” game — round one48:55 – The candle story & what it taught them about grace🔗 Links* Listen on Apple* Listen on Spotify* Watch on YouTube📖 Melissa’s New Book: Chicken-Fried Women📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → https://bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📱 Instagram → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📱 Facebook → https://bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook👋 Ready to Go Deeper?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV (Point of View) Audio messages from Melissa — short, sweet, and straight from the middle of the mess.* A twice-monthly advice podcast called We’re Here for You Wednesday with Melissa and David.* Monthly paid-only posts (the stuff Melissa doesn’t share with everyone).* The ability to comment and join real community conversations.👉 Subscribe here for $9/month or $90/year This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

⬆️Listen on Substack or the app of your choice.Watch on YouTube📺 Episode LinkWhat’s This Episode AboutMelissa and David unpack collective illusion — the strange phenomenon where we think everyone agrees with something… but they don’t. From Twitter dumpster fires to AI influencers, from book clubs to binge drinking myths, the Radkes dive into why most of us stay silent even when we disagree.Also in this episode: Remi’s washcloth showdown, why only 10% of Twitter/X users shape the conversation, and what authenticity looks like in marriage, parenting, and faith.Episode Highlights* Melissa’s haircut crisis & Remi’s washcloth scandal* Collective illusion explained (and why it’s so dangerous)* How AI bots stir division (and what that means for community)* Why we silence ourselves — even when we shouldn’t* Marriage & family examples of collective illusion (salmon dinners, Survivor nights, and holiday food lies)* A game of “What Crime Would I Commit?” turns into vehicular manslaughter accusations (yes, really)⏱️ Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Melissa’s haircut update & Remi’s washcloth scandal08:00 – Collective Illusion explained (Mel Robbins + Dr. Todd Rose)18:00 – Are 25% of your Facebook comments bots?27:00 – Community vs. self-silencing38:00 – Marriage, family & why we eat salmon we hate55:00 – Zombie apocalypse, manslaughter, and cartoon fightsLinks:* The Mel Robbins Podcast on Collective Illusions* Dr. Todd Rose’s Collective Illusions* Reuters article on AI actress Tilly NorwoodListen on Apple: https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowAppleListen on Spotify: https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotifyWatch on YouTube: https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube📖 Melissa’s New Book: Chicken-Fried Women → https://bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen📝 Subscribe to Stretch Marks on Substack → https://bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack📱 Instagram: https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram📱 Facebook: https://bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook👋 Ready to go deeper? Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday POV (Point of View) Audio messages from me (think: pep talks, gut checks, and reminders that you’re not crazy) - short, sweet, and straight from the middle of the mess* A twice monthly advice podcast called We’re Here for You Wednesday with me and David answering your questions* Monthly paid-only posts (the stuff I don’t share with everyone)* The ability to comment on posts and join actual community conversations👉 Subscribe here for $9/month or $90/year This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

⬆️Listen on Substack or the app of your choice.Watch on YouTube📺 Episode LinkWhat This Episode’s AboutHot Topics: Nicole Kidman divorce rumors, Bad Bunny halftime drama, Theo Von’s Netflix chaos, Rory McIlroy’s Ryder Cup rage, and a TikTok prank gone sideways—all with Melissa’s sass and David’s “rash ointment” moment.Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Nicole & Keith rumors12:45 – Dad’s Weekend in Fayetteville23:10 – Bad Bunny halftime backlash33:20 – Theo Von Netflix drama42:00 – Rory McIlroy Ryder Cup meltdown50:10 – TikTok prank + David’s dad oversharesLinks Mentioned* Subscribe to Stretch Marks* The Radke Show YouTube Playlist* Chicken-Fried Women book👋 Ready to go deeper?Become a paid subscriber to Stretch Marks and get:* Weekday audio messages (pep talks in your pocket)* Twice Monthly “We’re Here for You Wednesday” advice podcasts with Melissa and David* Private Zoom chats and creative sessions👉 Subscribe here for $9/month or $90/year This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe

📝 Show Notes Melissa and David take a hilarious, heartfelt walk back to their childhood church days in the 1980s—when “rules” ruled and every youth pastor had a cautionary tale. From “fire and brimstone” sermons to Halloween trunk-or-treats, record burnings and youth-group rumors of backward masking, the Radkes remember it all. Melissa shares the college crush her professor called her parents about, while David recalls Ozzy Osbourne’s bat legend and the razor-blade-in-the-apple warnings that terrified every church kid. It’s a nostalgic, funny look at the rules we grew up with—and how far we’ve come. 🔹 Episode Highlights Remi’s long FaceTime chats from college and how Melissa wrestles with missing her daughter. Melissa’s first impressions of David at freshman orientation—train-conductor pants included. The difference between loneliness and simply being alone. Church culture in the 80s & 90s: “God hates divorce” sermons and the fear of being shunned. Halloween trunk-or-treat and “razor blade in the apple” scares. Record burnings and the panic over backward-masked Satanic messages. Ozzy Osbourne’s infamous bat story and other youth-group myths. Interracial dating—why it was so taboo it wasn’t even discussed. Eating disorders, mental health, and the “don’t talk about it” generation. A laugh-out-loud TikTok fast-food game to close the episode. ✨ Don’t miss a moment: 🎧 The Radke Show on Apple → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowApple 🎧 The Radke Show on Spotify → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowSpotify ▶️ The Radke Show on YouTube → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowYouTube 📖 Melissa’s New Book → https://bit.ly/ChickenFriedWomen 💌 Melissa Radke on Substack → https://bit.ly/MelissaRadkeSubstack 📱 The Radke Show on Instagram → https://bit.ly/TheRadkeShowInstagram 📘 The Radkes on Facebook → https://bit.ly/TheRadkesFacebook Subscribe so you never miss the laughter, rants, and Radke realness every Tuesday and Thursday! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit melissaradke.substack.com/subscribe