"I always realized that there is a way that you can bring it up that is not attacking and is not you being like accusatory... but there's a way that you can actually come from it more of like I need to talk about this selfishly I don't know why it's upsetting me so much and I just need to get it off my chest." — Alex Cooper
"I don't believe in one to cheater always a cheater. I don't. I think people can change, but he's literally showing you he hasn't changed because he's texting you while he has a new fucking girlfriend." — Alex Cooper
"Be selfish with your time and don't feel bad for doing that... You have the right to remove yourself from anything that makes you feel uncomfortable and specifically ladies please listen to me on this: anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or any social situation that you don't feel positive about that makes you get anxiety over that stresses you out that makes you feel less than that makes you feel small, remove yourself." — Alex Cooper
The episode tackles listener questions, beginning with a concern about a spouse's past infidelity during their dating period. The host, Alex Cooper, advises approaching such conversations with a focus on personal need for closure and understanding, rather than immediate accusation. She emphasizes that open communication, even about difficult topics, is essential for long-term relationship health. Cooper suggests framing the discussion as a personal need to address lingering thoughts, allowing the partner to respond honestly and for the couple to navigate the answer together.
The conversation then shifts to friendships and the challenges of maintaining connections when personal values diverge. Cooper elaborates on her own evolution from prioritizing "fun friends" in her earlier years to valuing deeper emotional connections and shared values in adulthood. She stresses the importance of being protective of one's energy and recognizing that not all friendships are meant to last a lifetime, advocating for prioritizing relationships that are emotionally fulfilling. The host encourages listeners to be "selfish" with their time and to not feel guilt over friendships that no longer serve them, framing this as a sign of personal growth.
Finally, the episode addresses the dilemma of a partner maintaining friendships with individuals who are disrespectful or speak negatively about the listener. Cooper advocates for open communication with the partner about these feelings, highlighting the importance of feeling supported and defended. She suggests that if a partner cannot empathize with or acknowledge the discomfort caused by their friends' behavior, it may warrant a re-evaluation of the relationship itself. The host concludes by emphasizing the importance of setting personal standards and boundaries in all areas of life for increased happiness and self-respect.