I stumbled upon this podcast a couple of years ago when Jared and Jordana were guests on a different pod. As a (couples) therapist, I was very curious about what laypeople were saying to other laypeople about dating, so I started listening to U Up? around then and have continued ever since because they’re hilarious together. I’m certainly the only person of color I know who listens to the show—but I would assume (white) Jewish people make up the biggest demo for Betches in general so it’s not surprising.
I think the biggest rub for me with the show is how Jared talks about dating. He often says that he’s the voice of “most” or “so many” men, but I think that’s blatantly false. The reality is, Jared SHOULD be in therapy to come to terms with his dating anxiety and avoidance. Most men are not forecasting worst case scenario or breaking someone’s heart before they even go on a date. That’s atypical, period. My concern is that this is being normalized for the women (and men!) who listen to the show. My sense is that Jordana knows that—it would be great if she’d call him out more on this or at least encourage him getting some professional support around it. Based on comments he’s made about therapy, it sounds like Jared scoffs at it and/or doesn’t think it’s “for him,” but it’s clear he’d really benefit from it. Even the crossover ep with Dr. Naomi seemed to move the needle a bit.
Anyway, I still enjoy the show despite this. I’ll be at the live show coming to town and also have been to Jared’s comedy show—absolutely hilarious. So the above is food for thought that I hope both, or at least Jordana (👋🏾), will read and consider.
