Bachelor Happy Hour - Marcus & Mike: The Chef of Our Dreams & a World-Stopping Moment From Taylor's Season | Happy Hour

Episode Date: May 1, 2026

Today on "Happy Hour," we're sitting down with Marcus and Mike from season 22 of "The Bachelorette!" We kick things off with Marcus, an incredible catch with a lot to offer.  He takes us through his various passions, including his love for cooking! If you're looking to up your rasta pasta game, look no further.Then, we dive in with Mike: a self-proclaimed "reformed bad boy." He tells us about his past and where he is today. We also get into his experience on the season, including a jaw-dropping moment that he believes Bachelor Nation has never seen before. Tune in now and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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We are recording this on April 6th. And we are back today with some more incredible guys from Taylor's season. So let's not keep you guys waiting any further. And let's meet the guys. Today's guest on Bachelor Happy Hour is 28-year-old creative director from Elmont, New York. Everybody welcome Marcus. Welcome, Marcus. So what's up?

How are you feeling? How are you are feeling? We are good to have you. Yes, we're so excited. We wanted to ask, we've been starting off every episode, just checking in with everyone. It is such a crazy time right now. How are you and how are you feeling? I'm feeling good.

I mean, obviously, you know, with everything going on, it's kind of tough, you know, you get kind of excited for that release. But, you know, I'm kind of managing. I got a great support system and my family and friends. So I'm managing, working, just trying to stay busy and control my controllables. Yeah. Okay. So walk us through how you got to this journey to begin with.

How did you get on The Bachelorette? Oh, yeah. It was actually crazy. I was just kind of like minding my business. it's like on Instagram, really just kind of doing what I do. And somebody had just reached out to me on, on the DMs. And I was just like, okay, this sounds like, they mentioned The Bachelor, but I was like, I didn't kind of believe it.

I was a little skeptical at first. And then I kind of, I talked to a producer. They said it was a casting producer. And then I went through the whole process. And then they moved me on, just kept on moving me on. and then I saw the official like bachelor email thing and I was just like oh no I think this is real and and then I just I just everything just kind of started moving fast after that and we are it's crazy it does go so fast yeah you kind of just start doing the the background checks the

testing the everything is just kind of just going through the whole legal stuff and it's fun though the whole process is like exciting and it's just like just this is fun it's just fun it's just whole fun, crazy experience. So I'm just glad to be a part of it. Yeah. Did you watch, like, reality TV, were you a big fan of the show? Like, have you ever seen it? Did you know how it, like, kind of like the gist of it? I not, you know, I've never watched The Bachelor. I've never watched The Bachelor, right? That's crazy. I'm kind of just like, I was just trying something new. Um, so yeah, like, I kind of, I had just gotten a relationship at the time, too, so I was just like, you know what?

Like, why not try to, you know, find, find some, find some love and really kind of figure out myself. And, you know, I saw the opportunity. I was like, this is, this sounds like something. And then, you know, when they announced who, who the bachelor was, I was excited. I was like, yo, this is dope. Like, this is somebody I can, I can see a possible future with. But, yeah, it's just things, you know, things go.

Yep. Yes. What did you? Think about Taylor when they announced her. Did you research her at all? Oh, yeah. I, um, I had to, like, I didn't know, I didn't know what I was. Like, I was just like, yo, who, who is this person? And I had to do my little research, you know, I saw that she had, you know, some, she had, like, a platform already. Um, she was already on TV. So, like, I didn't know what to kind of expect, you know, I didn't know what type of, you know,

where her headspace was at, where, you know, her mental was at. And I know, I know, knew where I was at just, I just needed to see if it was going to mesh. And, you know, I was excited, just excited just to kind of meet her and, you know, show off my personality to see she can, you know, like it. How was your, I guess, your support system or your family's, like, opinions of you coming on this show, did they, were they excited? Were they, like, skeptical? Or they're just like, you know what, if you like it, I love it. Like, what was the bottom? Yeah, the first one I told them, there was like, what? It's real? I'm like, yeah, like, this is what I'm about to go do.

And it was just like, oh, this is crazy. And it was just super excited for me because they knew it was a great opportunity. And it was, it's something fun. Like, I think it's something completely different from what my family is actually, like, they do. Like, everybody works and, you know, has a regular job. I think this was something went left field. Like, I was just working a regular job at the gym. And all of a sudden, I'm like, hey, I'm going to go do this show, try to find love.

So it was an exciting experience for them. And I was just, you know, I was just happy. And it was happy for me. You said that you had gotten out of a relationship a little bit before the show. What is your prior dating history like? What happened in that relationship as much as you're comfortable sharing? I mean, I just feel like at the time I just wasn't there mentally. Like I just didn't have, I was going through a lot of things, you know, just in my personal life.

And I just felt like I wasn't really connecting as I really wanted to. too. And I think at the time, you know, we just kind of just didn't see that. We didn't see eye to eye. And, you know, it hurts. You know, it's kind of like that's relationship, that's life. But, you know, you kind of just have to go through the growth through it. And I'm glad I got to kind of explore that and understand like my capacity and what I can handle and where I can kind of like check myself. So it helped me getting better perspective on relationships than just even myself. So happy I went through that. Yeah. So what were some of those things that leaving, I guess, those previous relationships that you were like, this is what I know I need in my next relationship or qualities

that you were looking for? It really comes down to like stability. I think for me, like, I like to know, like where we stand and like things not sway. For me, you know, I'm a very understanding and open guy. Like I just like to, I like to have fun. So fun looks a lot. lot different for a lot of different people and you just kind of have to figure what that you know what that makes sense and how how to kind of make sense and and teamwork you know I think teamwork was a really thing that you know it just wasn't meshing with a lot of my other um you know past exes but you know you go through to grow through it I mean you go you go through it to grow through it and and I have a better sense to like kind of communicate that so you know you got to go you just got to go through it yes

Absolutely. We know obviously that Taylor is a mother. Did you want a family? Is that something you are looking for in the future? Yes, I want a big family. I ain't go along. I'm trying to have like four, five, six kids. Whoa. Oh, Sam. Slow down. Got to start now. If you can run it up, not still active. I'm in the gym. So what's it? Once they start popping out, once he start popping out, I don't know who it is, but a whole basketball team. You're like the first man that I feel. like have said five in this day and age. I feel like most guys are like two, three. If I can run it up, I can run it up.

So I got to, for me, you know, I like, I like family. I think it was for me, I grew up. I had two brothers, one sister. So like I seen that dynamic and I think it's great for kids to kind of grow up together and kind of learn experiences. And I want that for my kids. I want my kids to have a support system because I know I won't always be there. And I know they might not always want to talk to.

to me. So, you know, as long as they have like a brother or a sister that they can talk to, then I know it will be good in the future. So yeah, need a big family. We're ready. Be ready. Just be ready. Our family man. We got us a family man here. Okay, take us to night one. What was it like getting in the limo, the limo entrance. Please tease as much as you can. heard you had something very very spectacular. We have a spoiler behind him for everyone watching. It's just got to let the people know. But the experience of the first night was crazy. I ain't go a lot. The first night, when it comes out, the people would not be disappointed. It would be,

it would be very entertaining. I had a great first night. I think, you know, just I had a lot of nerves going into it because, I mean, I know why, but it was just a lot of nerves. I was just kind of like, I don't know what to kind of really expect. I know what I'm doing, but don't know what to expect. And also didn't know how the guys was going to react to it because you just don't know. And I was met with a lot of love. And that made me so happy. And I was like, thank God.

Thank God. And everybody just kind of showed a lot of love to me. And it was a great night one. I met a lot of great guys. And got to me, Taylor. Taylor was an amazing person. So it was a good night one. People would definitely be, they'll be entertaining, for sure.

We keep hearing that night one was just crazy energy in the house. What was it like walking into all the men? When I walked in, I was like, it was just like a wave of dude. It was like a wave of guys. Yeah. Obviously, like, yeah, they saw me and it was like, yo, like, this is crazy. like, what's going? Like, yo, I don't know,

but what's so weird? Like, how y'all feel it? And everybody was just like, yo, like, it was just so cool. Like, that's why I was nervous. I'm like, it could have swayed either way. But everybody was so cool about it. Everybody was just so excited.

It was just like, nah, this is crazy. So, yeah, like that night one was so much energy. I think everybody was excited. And when they saw what happened, it was like, what the fuck? No, true. Really, crazy. I'm just like, yo, I don't know, but we made it out of.

Are you guys, like, all, from what I've heard is that you guys are all still very close. Like, do you guys, like, I mean, granted, we're bypassing rules, but, like, you guys still talk and are, like, very close to this day. Yeah, I think a lot of the guys, I made a lot of great connections with, like, these are, these are some real, like, upstanding people. Like, I see, like, they have, like, a lot of morals, a lot of character. obviously when you're on the show, it's a lot of drama, you know, that comes a bit. But I think at the end of the day, like, these are a lot of, like, these are good people at heart. And I think I have a good sense of character, and I can kind of, I can sense that from a lot of these people. And that's what I want to, I like to surround myself with.

And, you know, just the fact that Bachelor Nation even gave me an opportunity to even meet, meet Taylor and be in this world, like, amazing. 10 out of 10 experience. I love it. I know. You mentioned that you and Taylor talked night one. What were you guys able to connect on throughout the season? I felt like we got to connect on a bunch of different things.

I found out she was a really big basketball fan. Didn't know that. And obviously, I grew up playing basketball my whole life. My pops played basketball. My brothers played basketball. Uncles, cousins. Everybody in my family has just played both. So, like, that was, like, a great thing that I got to connect with her about.

and I felt like me being the family man, I like I like kids. Like I do enjoy being around kids. Like I think they just, it's cool. And we got to talk about that and just family. And I think we just got to connect and just have fun. I think she kind of needed that. I think she needed a time to kind of just decompressed from the world. And obviously, like she's going through a lot personally.

So the fact that, you know, she even got that experience and even just to talk to me, I think she got to, you know, relax and just have fun for a second. Okay, so walk us through your day-to-day life. Like, you're a creative director. So what does that consist of? Tell us a little bit about what you do for work and, yeah. I mean, it can go from video shoots and music video shoots. I'm either content planning for another brand,

talking to models, trying to schedule out another, you know, just scheduling out dates for them to kind of, you know, come to the shoots. script writing, you know, it's a whole bunch of different processes that, you know, sometimes it gets a little exhausting. So that's why, you know, I actually have them. And, you know, I surround myself around other creatives where I can kind of like just bounce ideas off of and kind of just see where they're heads out and see my ideas is too much. Sometimes I know I'll be doing too much.

So they kind of be like, all right, this is cool. And maybe it was down the back on that one. But I think, yeah, just like the day to day, I think it's just. it's just doing that or I'm at the gym and playing video games or something like that. So I just try to buy my business and just stay creative and just have fun, man. You mentioned basketball. We heard that you had an opportunity to go pro. What took you down a different path?

Walk us through all that. So actually, that's crazy. I didn't even, I did. That was crazy. It's like, oh, yeah. I forgot about that. But I got out of college, there was this team out in Australia. They had reached out to me to come play over there.

But at the time, it was during COVID. And it was just so much uncertainty. And, like, I just didn't want, I didn't want to be out there and get stuck. And I have this thing with Australia. Like, I just heard that, you know, with the bugs. The bugs. Oh, my gosh. The bugs is crazy.

The kangaroos. And then, yo. They'll fight you. They were, they were. They are aggressive animals. And I didn't know that. So I know they will look at me like, yo, we're the same height. No, dead ass.

Let's box. I'm like, no. You having beef with Australia is crazy. It's crazy. It's really crazy. I was in Australia. Like, I know there's great people out there. You know, I love it.

That is so funny. I just, I'm just scared. And I heard it's haunted. over there too. I don't know. Is it? I see, I don't know that. That's what I, some of the scary movies that I've watched, they said they take place in Australia or something like that.

Oh, good. Interesting. Oh, my gosh. I know. Hopefully we don't have any Australian viewers. No, honestly. No, no. But Australia's good vibes, though.

Good vibes, though. Yeah, good people, for sure. So you decided no, because Australia and you wanted to be more creative. COVID. It was more COVID. It was more COVID. Okay. It was just like, I was like, no, I just couldn't do it. I just didn't want to get stuck over there.

And so then I kind of just like, all right, what else I want to do? Because like in college, I was taking a lot of creative classes. I took some acting classes, took some art classes, graphic design classes. And I wanted to kind of just use some of that creativity that I was just doing in class. So I kind of just started networking people in the creative industry in New York. New York is a great city for creatives. Like, you're going to meet one on every single corner. So the more you kind of just put yourself in different environments and just talk to different

people and just putting yourself out there, opportunities just start rolling in and rolling in. And I was blessed and fortunate enough to have, like, some crazy opportunity to be a part of some crazy campaigns. And, you know, I just solved that. And I was just like, hey, I'm in the States and I'm doing some great stuff. So I'm going to stay here. And I love basketball.

but I'm not to put that to the side. Oh my goodness. Are there any other hobbies that you dabble in? Like anything you're also very talented at that you love doing? I mean, I enjoy like, I enjoy painting. I wouldn't say I'm good at. Oh, wow. Amazing.

Very great of. Yeah, I wouldn't say I'm good at it, but I enjoy it. Like I like, you know, just the whole process, you know, just trying to meet the colors, finding the right painting that I really like. And so I like trying to go to like art galleries and stuff. Yeah. I have a chance and just trying to just get inspiration. So I just really try to stay around the creative field.

Like it's just, I don't know, it just helps me feel free in this world. Like I think there's a lot of, there's a lot of noise. And I feel like just the world just kind of find the things that you just enjoy doing or just brings you peace. We also heard you like to cook. Oh, yeah, for sure. I was top chef. Yeah, for sure. I was like, we heard you like a.

rasta pasta dish. Come on now. What's the secret? I'm like, tell me, how can I improve my rasta posta. That's the signature. It just all comes down to the seasonings. The seasonings is when you get right with it, you know what I'm saying? You said the right thing. I've been in here. I'm not doing it. I'm true to this. Hello, hello. Like, imagine having a rasta pasta dish with zero seasoning or lack of seasoning. Scary times. Scary times. Were you cooking in the mansion?

Some Rastafasas? Period. I was in there. I was in there whipping some stuff up. You know, some of the guys got to get some of my dishes. It was like, yo, this is tough. Now, I'm a real, I'm a real breakfast connoisseur if you ask me. Oh, for real.

Rastipasta pasta, I'm top notch. That's where I'm at, but breakfast connoisseurs is where, that's my bread and No pun intended. But no, my breakfast kind of sore for sure. Like I love, you know, pancakes, you know, French toast, get the Belgian waffles. We can do the, we can do the eggs, you can do the omelets. You know, we can mix it up.

But yeah, I'll be in the kitchen for real. Experience Megan Maroni live on her only Canadian tour date. June 20th in Toronto. Radio wants to send you and a friend. You and a friend with travel from TripCentral.ca. The smart way to book travel. Two nights hotel, $1,000 cash.

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That is the number of people who take the stairs when there is also an escalator available. I'm Michael Easter, and on my podcast, 2%, I break down the science of mental toughness, fitness, and building resilience in our strange modern world. I'll be speaking with writers, researchers, and other health and fitness experts, and more to look past the impractical and way too complex pseudoscience that dominates the wellness industry. We really believe that seed oils were inherently inflammatory.

We got it wrong. Many of the problems that we are freaked out about in the world are the result of stress. Put yourself through some hardships, and you will come out on the other side a happier, more fulfilled, healthier person. Listen to 2%. That's TWO percent on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Do you remember when Diana Ross double-tapped Little Kim's boobs at the VMAs? Or when Kanye said that George Bruey's... didn't like black people.

I know what you're thinking. What the hell does George Bush got to do with a little Kim? Well, you can find out on the Look Back at it podcast. I'm Sam J. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick it here, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it. Including a recent episode with Mark Lamont Hill, waxing all about crack in the 80s. To be clear, 84 is big to me, not just because of crack.

I'm down to talk about crack all day, but just so y'all know. I mean, at this point, Mark, this is the second. episode where we've discussed correct. So I'm starting to see that there's a through line. We also have AIDS on the table right now. Thank you for finishing that sentence. I don't think there's a more important year for black people. Really? Yeah. For me, it's one of the most important years for black people in American history.

Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome to my new podcast, Learn the Hardway with me, your host, and your favorite therapist, Kier Games. And in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, I'm bringing over a decade of my own experience in the mental health field and conversations with so many incredible guests. I'm talking, Tripp Fontaine, Ryan Clark.

Sometimes when we're in the pursuit of the thing, we get so wrapped up in the chase that we don't realize that we are in possession of the thing. And we're still chasing it, and we don't know when we've done enough. Because people scoreboard watch. Life becomes about wins and losses. Steve Burns, Dustin Ross,

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learn the hard way. Open your free iHeartRadio app. Search Learn the Hardway and listen now. In 2023, former bachelor star Clayton Eckerd found himself at the center of a paternity scandal. The family court hearings that followed revealed glaring inconsistencies in her story. This began a years-long court battle to prove the truth. You doctored this particular test twice in so much, correct?

I doctored the test ones. It took an army of internet detectives to crack the case. I wanted people to be able to see what their tax dollars were being used for. Sunlight's the greatest disinfected. They would uncover a disturbing pattern. Two more men who'd been through the same thing. Greg Alespian and Michael Marantini. My mind was blown.

I'm Stephanie Young. This is Love Trap. Laura, Scottsdale Police. As the season continues, Laura Owens finally faces consequences. Ladies and gentlemen, breaking news at Maricopa County as Laura Owens has been indicted on fraud charges.

This isn't over until justice has served in Arizona. Listen to Love Trapped podcast on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. For our beers who don't know, what is rasta pasta? All right. So rasta pasta is essentially, it's a Jamaican dish where you take your regular pasta, pinini pasta. You want to get yourself some chicken. You get your choice of protein. You do the chicken, you do steak, you do shrimp, whatever.

You want to get your jerk seasoning. You want to get your Alfredo. You know what I'm saying? Come on now. Come on now. I'm here now. I'm here. And if you got, and now we want to take the, take your seasoning.

So we got adobo, you know what I'm saying? Just a seasoned chicken. Come on, you know what I mean. Essential. I was like, yeah. Where you said a gobo? I said, yep, he started a bot. Come on.

You got to get the adobe. You got to get the Mrs. Dash. You know what I'm saying? Precisely. Maybe we want to spice it up. Get the sezon. No way. No way.

We're done. Yo, so, yeah, like, you know, and then you mix all that up. You cook that on the grill, chop it up, throw that in there, start mixing up the ingredients. Oh, you got your onions and peppers, my fault. Yes, I was like, come on out. Come on out. You got to.

Chop off the bell peppers, you know what I'm saying? Chop up the bell peppers, throw that in there too, saute it. Make sure you throw that on the grill because you don't want no cold bell peppers. But I'm saying, do all that. You're good. It's going to be a smack and meal. So smack and middle. Pretty straight.

Pretty straight for. You just, yeah. I mean, as long as you got the seasoning lineup and your protein and the bell pepper. I mean, listen, it's pretty straightforward. It's going to hit it. Yeah. Were you writing down seasonings for them to get on the grocery list? Because I don't remember there being seasonings in that house.

There definitely was not, there was not Adobe in the bachelor page. I think we had salt and pepper. Maybe I don't even remember if we had that. And vegan butter. Vegan butter. Oh, the vegan butter go crazy. Oh, let me not. Let me chill.

Listen, when they gave us the list, I ain't go a lot. That list looked crazy. I would never seen that. What was on there? Yo, the dudes was getting grass fed this. I knew it. I knew it. Spoiled brats.

We had go macro bars on my season. But that's how it was for the girls, too. I was like, that was like my, I never had like a, I don't want to say plant-based diet, but like I was not eating super, super healthy, like where my butter and like, you know, everything was super vegan. I was like, I have never heard any of this before. So I was like, okay. It was getting old.

It was getting old and bougie stuff. I ain't go. Yeah, yeah. I was like, hey, might as well just add my level one to. I ain't got. No, for sure. But I was like, yo, this is crazy. It made me feel less guilty for sure.

For sure. So I was like, let me just throw my stuff. And yeah, we got it cracking in the kitchen. for sure. Period. I love that. Okay, we're going to ask you a would you rather. So would you rather do a paint and sip date night, but you have to do a portrait of your date with your non-dominate hand or make rasta pasta for your date, but you have to substitute a bunch of ingredients.

So let's say maybe substitute some seasonings. Ooh, mercy. I'm going to take the paint and sip. I ain't mess up. I like good eat. You know, you can't play around with that. Exactly. That pain going to look crazy, but listen, that's the creative.

That's the creative. Exactly. I love it. Smart answer. Smart answer. It's hard to come back from a bad, like a bad meal. And especially if you were the one cooking it, yeah, I'm going to be like, that's going to be ingrained in my memory.

If you go to a restaurant, you can blame it on the chef, I wouldn't do that. Yes. But if we served that up, they'll be like, yo, bro, you, you cut off. We cut in a little. Exactly. Should we jump into our other questions on the hot seat now that we're in question mode? We're on a row.

Okay. Marcus, we're going to play a game and it's called hot seat. And again, we are just going to ask you a bunch of questions, fire them off and you're going to give us your best answer. So going back to the food, we heard that pancakes are your favorite food. Is that true? And if so, give us your top pancake order in detail. Oh, bet, bet, bet, bet.

Yes, that's true, for sure, that's true. So we're going to get the pancakes, we're going to do it right. We're going to add some cinnamon in there, right? We're going to add some cinnamon in there. We're going to add some chocolate chips. Keep it real smooth and calm. Yum. And that's going to, oh, add some vanilla extract.

We got to throw that in there, too. Let me give it a little, give it a whole swirl. I love that. Vanilla extract is essential in pancakes. Okay. Listen. We see eye to eye on food, so I love that. Okay.

A little birdie told us you were once, oh my God, attacked by a bird on a run. Not the bird. Did the bird tell you? Do you really want to know that story? Yes. Can you please walk us through what happened? I need like chronological like steps. Tell us order of events.

So it was in the morning, right? It's like midday. Like, I was feeling good. So, you know, I wake up in the morning, usually around like seven, seven, eight. I put my running kicks on. I'm feeling great. I'm like, yeah, this is about to be a good day. It's like 70 outside.

So I'm out for a run. Everything's great. Then I'm noticing like this shadow, like next to me floating. But I'm like, I know there's birds. I know there's birds just flying. I'm cool. But then I'm noticed I'm looking down. I'm like, yeah, why is the shadow?

shadow getting bigger. Like, and I'm running. So I'm running. I'm like, what is this? And I look to my right and then the bird just, just jumps at me. He's just like, oh, I'm like, oh shit. And I dug. No way.

The neighbors is looking at me. And I'm like, dang, y'all not going to help. Like, you know what it is? I'm almost tumbling and stuff. I'm like, nah, this is crazy. Did it keep like coming at you? Yes, so like, picture I'm running. There's a bird right here, and I'm looking, the bird looks at me and leaves at me.

I don't duck. The bird is hitting you. It's pecking you. That's insane. I had to duck and do a whole tumble. I look crazy. Summer salting in the ground. I know, literally.

I look crazy. I'm like, yo, this is nuts. This is insane. So, yeah, I didn't run back that way. I ran the other way that. So finish my run. So. You have a few birds.

now? Yeah, I'm not a big fan of them. And that's the other thing that I'm added to the list. Hello. You know it's crazy? Fon, didn't even add this part. Then I came back home. I'm like around the corner from my house, a freaking wasp just tries to attack me too. I'm like, oh, my day. No, you got to that's, you just got to go in at that point, just so you know what? It's not the wasp waiting for you after your attack. The bird, the bird didn't finish you. They're conspiring. against you. And the animal can't.

How tall are you? How tall are you? Of six five. So like, imagine you see a six five man running that he doing a somersault in the middle of a tree. You water in your grass. You're like, what's going on? Precisely.

Yeah. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. Oh, my goodness. Okay. Moving on to something a little lighter. You said that your dream is to make it into Forbes. What do you hope to be recognized for?

A businessman, businessman. I hope that my fashion brand that I'm, you know, currently cultivating right this moment takes off. I have a lot of new pieces that I'm working on and I actually have some coming out for the summer. If you have something else, I just let me know. I can send y'all little. We absolutely love to rock whatever. Mark Rich. So Mark Rich, I got you. I got you. I can send that over to y'all. But definitely hope for my brand, my fashion brand to kind of, you know, take off. I would love for. for that to, you know, end up in Forbes one day. And I'm chilling on the beach.

I'm chilling on the beach. Hello. My kids and my wife. Life is good. No birds in sight. No birds in sight. Yo, actually, I'm going to tell you another funny story about a bird. Tell us.

This was actually when I was on a beach. This happened when I was young ago. Did I just bring up a bad memory of birds on the beach? I'm sorry. And I have to do with food. This is crazy. So we're going to mix it all together. So I'm on the beach.

If you're from New York, I was in Jones Beach. So y'all, y'all know where I was at. So I'm at Jones Beach, right? I forgot the exact area, but I'm chilling on the beach. And I was with my family, and I had gotten this sandwich. It was a bacon, egg and cheese. Now, if you know me, all my friends know I don't play about my bacon, egg and cheese.

I get that everywhere we go. I get it with some pepper ketchup. It's a real thing. Like I don't play around by my baking and egg and cheese. So I was very excited about this sandwich because I was out there. I was in the water, having fun. I was like, you know, I got this lunch. This is about to be good money.

Yo, I went and picked up the sandwich. And then somebody had called me over to help them out with something. And I was like, all right, cool. Help them out for like a quick second. I turned around maybe like 30 seconds. This freaking seagull, and I don't like seagulls no more, took my sandwich. And flew. And flew.

And I ain't never seen that. I had nothing to get. Old as hell. Oh, no. I know you was hot. New Yorkers do not play about the baking and cheese. I was tight. I was like, yo, this is great.

I was actually trying to eat that day. And I didn't have nothing to eat. I think we had to go figure out something like locally. Oh, you was hangary. Yeah, it was. So, yeah, that's another bird situation. So I think. Well, I am sorry for bringing that up.

No, no, you're good. You're good. I'm over. But that story is hilarious. I'm sorry. I'm recovering. Oh, my gosh. Well, this has been so fun.

You are so funny. We loved having you on. Is there anything you want to leave Bachelor Nation with before we go? Bachelor Nation, I rock with y'all. Can't wait to see you when it comes out. And thank you guys for having me, Charity and Rachel. Yeah, I've both been amazing. And thank you for the interview.

Thank you. And before we go, where can we find you on socials? Because we got to keep up. And with the Mark Rick line, hello. Come on. Follow me on Mark Rich 03. So it's M-A-R-C-R-C-H-O-3. Make sure you get that right.

And yeah, we're good, for sure. Follow both of you. Perfect. Oh, my God. Well, thank you so much. This was so much fun. You're so funny, so much fun. And hopefully we'll have you back on Happy Hour soon.

Today's guest with us on Bachelor Happy Hour is 36-year-old brand production manager from New Jersey. Everybody welcome Mike T to the podcast. Hello. Oh, thanks for having me, guys. Appreciate it. We're so excited to have you. So we're starting off every podcast, and we've been asking everyone, how are you feeling?

We know that this is a lot, and we just want to check in and see where you're at. Yeah, no, thanks for asking. Yeah, like, look, it's confusing, right? Like the pause and not knowing exactly what's going to happen. but just one thing is truly like if there's children involved and I just hope everyone's happy truthfully like healthy and happy because that's the main thing but you know if I'm to speak candidly just like not for nothing like Taylor is someone people love and enjoy because she doesn't hide her flaws and you know for what it's worth like she's made her

amends over time and she's proven over her social media and on her show that you know she's not perfect and I think people, you know, have shown her forgiveness over the years and what's happening now is it's frustrating, right? I know in my sense, like in life, I've received forgiveness over things that I've done in my past and so I try and not judge people for what they've done. And, you know, look, I just hope that the world gets to see who Taylor was on the show because during filming, I saw someone who loves her children dearly, spoke so highly of them. and the way that I saw her versus what people see on her show, I think is a different person. She showed up to the mansion, very excited for the opportunity.

And yeah, people will say what her past was and maybe even not so recent past if you watch the last season, like, oh, she wasn't ready. And I think someone can make a decision in one day. And I know my life says so because I've done things that I knew I needed to stop and I had that she showed up to the mansion and wholeheartedly put her best, foot forward on this. And I think she really go head first into the process. So look,

at the end of the day, like, regardless of anything, I hope there's reconciliation with the families and the children are fine. But, you know, look, there's a lot of there's a good story here in this season and a lot of great men, and I hope the world gets to see that. Yeah. Before coming into The Bachelor Red, did you

know anything about Taylor? Did you watch Mormon wives? Were you privy to any of that reality TV aspect of her life? No, so like I knew like maybe the chat GBT bullet points about her. Not the chat. Yeah, I think that was like really it. So yeah, like when I heard that she was going to be the Bachelorette, like, you know, I saw a little bit of who she was and it seemed interesting enough to sign up.

But yeah, I was not an avid fan of Secret Lives and Mormon Lives. Okay, so walk us through how you got cast on the show. What was your journey to the first day? And did you go in knowing it was Taylor? Yeah. So when she announced on call her daddy, which was mid-September at work and a girl comes up and she's like, Mike, this woman just announced to be the bachelorette, you should sign up. And I always did think it was weird for people to sign up for a show without knowing who the lead is. Maybe that was just, you know, I felt like that was disingenuous. I didn't want to just show, right? Like I wanted to be someone who at least I saw a photo of, right? Like I just, so yeah, first off, I didn't have social media. So I was very nervous like, all right, if I email a casting producer or whatever, they're probably going to be like, who is this guy? Some random.

No trace of you. So I attached a few photos to make sure they knew I was valid. But yeah, I just, I got a call back pretty quickly. And that was late in the process, right? We started building, I think, like mid late October. So it was like four weeks of like everything was moving fast, you know, all of the preliminary thing. So, you know, it started kind of as like this would never happen.

And then it turned into, you know, stepping out of a limo. It was a pretty insane month. Okay. So we know you're from Jersey. So I want to know a little bit about what was your dating life, your dating history before all of this? Yeah. Look, Jersey has probably deep. Not to laugh at me.

Look, Jersey has this lore that I think like people don't like really understand. or they're so enamored with it, right? We see the Jersey Shore on TV or we understand about like those summer months at the beach that everyone kind of goes crazy. I would say my dating life, you pick a scenario in which there was a thing and I've probably done it, right? I've had my serious relationships or I lived with someone. I've had my hot girl summers.

I've done kind of all of it. And for what it's worth, I think it gave me a good bit of life experience going into this process. I was on the tail end of a hot girl summer, if you want to say that. And I was ready to, I was really ready to, you know, dive into like a relationship. And that was, it was funny because I said, like, again, New Jersey's weird. We have, like, these stages and like Labor Day is like the end of summer, right? So I was like, Labor Day weekend. I'm going to cut ties to everything and just try and date intentionally. And what's more intentional than going on the Bachelorette, right? No, truly.

You cannot get more intentional than that. I love thinking about the Jersey's shore and having like a hot girl summer there. Let's go back to you said you lived with someone. Was that your most serious relationship and what happened with all that? Yeah. Look, I think every relationship I've ever been in has kind of helped me figure out some boxes that I wanted checked or didn't need checked anymore. That one, yeah, that one wasn't my most recent, but certainly a meaningful one. you learn about yourself when you live with someone.

I think it's kind of like the pre-engagement to the engagement. It's important to know, you know, if you're in each other's space all the time, how much you're getting on each other's nerves, or if you're really like even better friends than you thought because I'm a guy who sometimes needs his space. And, you know, it was a learning experience. But, you know, I dated that woman. I dated someone with kids, which, you know, I brought to the show, like a lot of good lessons.

And it was a benefit to, you know, trying to relate to Taylor. So yeah, I've run the gauntlet on all types of relationships, and I certainly was ready to settle down going into filming. Experience Megan Maroney live on her only Canadian tour date. June 20th in Toronto. Theo wants to send you and a friend with travel from tripcentral.ca. The smart way to book travel. Two nights hotel, $1,000 cash.

Plus the new album on vinyl. Cloud 9, available now. Download the free Iheart radio app. Listen to Pure Country for 10 minutes. Win your way to Megan Maroney. World is hard on beautiful things. Every day you listen is another chance to win. 2%.

That is the number of people who take the stairs when there is also an escalator available. I'm Michael Easter, and on my podcast, 2%. I break down the science of mental toughness, fitness, and building resilience in our strange modern world. I'll be speaking with writers, researchers, and other health and fitness experts, and more, to look past the impractical and way too complex pseudoscience that dominates the wellness industry. We really believe that seed oils were inherently inflammatory.

We got it wrong. Many of the problems that we are freaked out about in the world are the result of stress. Put yourself through some hardships, and you will come out on the other side a happier, more fulfilled, healthier person. Listen to 2%. That's TWO% on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Do you remember when Diana Ross double-tap Little Kim's boobs at the VMAs? Or when Kanye said that George Bush didn't like black people.

I know what you're thinking. What the hell does George Bush got to do with Little Kim? Well, you can find out on the Look Back at it podcast. I'm Sam Jek. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick you here, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it. Including a recent episode with Mark Lamont Hill,

waxing all about crack in the 80s. To be clear, 84 is big to me, not just because of crack. I'm down to talk about crack on day, but just so you all know. I mean, at this point, Mark, this is the second episode where we've discussed crack. So I'm starting to see that there's a through line. We also have AIDS on the table right now. Thank you finishing that sentence. Yes.

I don't think there's a more important year for black people. Really? Yeah, for me, it's one of the most important years for black people in American history. Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome to my new podcast,

Learn the Hard Way with me, your host, and your favorite therapist, Kear Games. And in recognition of mental health awareness month, I'm bringing over a decade of my own experience in the mental health field and conversations with so many incredible guests. I'm talking, Tripp Fontaine, Ryan Clark. Sometimes when we're in the pursuit of the thing,

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In 2023, former bachelor star Clayton Eckerd found himself at the center of a paternity scandal. The family court hearings that followed revealed glaring inconsistencies in her story. This began a years-long court battle to prove the truth. You doctored this particular test twice in so-ins, correct? I doctored the test ones. It took an army of internet detectives to crack the case. I wanted people to be able to see what their tax dollars were being used for. Sunlight's the greatest disinfected.

They would uncover a disturbing pattern. Two more men who'd been through the same thing. Gregalespian and Michael Naranini. My mind was blown. I'm Stephanie Young. This is Love Trap. Laura, Scottsdale Police. As the season continues,

news, Laura Owens finally faces consequences. Ladies and gentlemen, breaking news at Americopa County as Laura Owens has been indicted on fraud charges. This isn't over until justice is served in Arizona. Listen to Love Trapped podcast on the Iheart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Okay, so what were some of those characteristics that you were like, okay, I'm leaving this or leaving these previous relationships and I'm like, this is what I really am looking for.

or like some non-negotiables when going into what would have been hopefully your next relationship. Yeah, look, I mean, I'm like an independent person and I enjoy my routine and I kind of, you know, at 36, I kind of know who I am today, right? I've grown a lot, you know, mentally, spiritually, physically, emotionally. The whole gamut I felt like today and then when we started filming, of course, like I'm in, I'm the best version of myself, right? So, you know, just some of those things are somebody who's family friendly, right? family is a big important part about in my life because you know Italian in New Jersey of course

everybody is you know my family's all around you know somebody who is just down to earth easy to get along with I don't have like tons of like non-negotiables I just like again it's the chemistry it's the banter it's like really that jenna se qua that's something you just don't really can put a finger on and and you can find that out very quickly when you meet someone so you know I go into everything being very open-minded to whomever it is, like giving them a shot. And, you know, I think I just, I know when I'm my best version of myself, I have the discernment to see that person as who they are and how they actually relate in my life. When I'm running amok and going crazy or whatever, like, it's hard to really see how this person fits into your life. So I knew going into,

you know, this season that I was as, like, ready as I am to really, you know, accept love. I do have to ask because I did give you a little bit of a hard time when we were going through the cast bios. You know you did. You have to tell me what reformed bad boy means. We have to go through that and talk it out. Sure. Yeah, yeah. So look, I was a misguided and troubled kid in his 20s.

He loved to party, right? I very much, like, just didn't have focus, right? Like, so I really was running amok and, you know, I was partying and drinking. and all the things that go along with it, right? And finally, I think I was Peter Pan no longer, right? Like, I finally grew up. But it took a lot of, it took a lot of trial and error in that, truthfully. And again, that's where, like, I relate so much to Taylor and her journey because I know that growth isn't linear.

Like, you know, I may be doing things better and better each day, but there's missteps every single time, right? Like I'm going to hurt people. I'm going to hurt myself. There's never malicious intent, but I am always trying to be the best version of myself and be a better person. And with that, there's, yeah, there's pitfalls, right? Like, it's just, it is what it is. I think it's life. Like, you know, what's going on right now if, I think everyone, you know, shouldn't throw stones, right?

Like, I truly think if your worst situation in life was videotaped, you know, maybe you two would have a bit of grace and understanding in this. and, you know, I saw a woman who for the last three years of her life really put herself out there, too, and, like, showed the world. Like, she wasn't trying to be this polished Instagram person, right? She gives it. Like, she really puts it all out there. And I, like, I really, like, respected that because, you know, in my struggles in life and, you know, finding the better way out, you know, there were a lot of, you know, times where I was embarrassed about, you know, my situation or whatever. And Taylor, just, she's all about just kind of being transparent. And, you know, for what it's worth, I think, you know, people who didn't know her maybe don't understand that, but her fans love that. And that's what I, when I saw that, I was like, all right, this is someone who I could relate to because, you know, I too have gone through things. And, you know, when you come out the other side, I think it really builds a lot of character. Yeah. We see like Taylor obviously is very vocal about like her faith. And obviously she just

posted about like, she's been posting a lot about just her spiritual journey. Was that something that was important to you or do you guys align in that in that way similarly? You got yeah. I have a I have a foundation in faith. I think there's a there's you know, it doesn't control every action of my life and I don't want entirely. But I, that is a foundation in which I do live my life, right? Like I was raised this way and I understand like I'm here and the things that I'm doing are, you know, bigger than myself, right? So yeah, it is nice to have someone, you know, in your corner who, you know, believes similarly to you do. But again, you know, we have free will and I'm trying to always do the next right thing. And sometimes it's, it's hard in

moments to, you know, take that pause and step back and, like, pray or do whatever you need to do. But yeah, generally, like, to have somebody who has that same understanding is crucial. So I'm Italian and I have a big Italian family, awesome. And I know that my parents always get on me and they're like, when are you getting married? When are you having kids? Do you feel like you have that as well? Thankfully, my brother did all the dirty work for me already. So you're an uncle?

Yeah, yeah. So he married a nice Italian woman. He has a boy and a girl. And like he just, he got the white picket fence. He did it all for me, which is great because, you know, now I could kind of do whatever I need to do. Less pressure. Yeah, but I still am the youngest in a big Italian family. So of course there's always questions.

You know, we just had a holiday, right, Easter. And of course there's questions, right? And like, when are you going to settle down? And, you know, do you want kids and all these things? But, you know, luckily, yeah, like my brother and they're amazing. And my parents are so happy to be grandparents. So I think, you know, I think almost they probably need a break too because they do so much. You know, the kids are wild.

So thankfully, yeah, I get a little reprieve for now. How did they feel about you going on the, on the Bachelorette? Like when you told them. Yeah, yeah. So look, my life is a little unorthodox to begin with. So I think whenever I call them with like a crazy idea or something that's going on my life, it doesn't necessarily shock them. But yeah, they were excited for me. I think, you know, it's a fun opportunity. And like more than that and more than yet, TV or whatever, because again, I had no social media before this. I have, I kept a low profile. I didn't really care for that. it was just something like to do that's once in a lifetime something that like only so many people

can can experience and I'm sure you guys understand like what happens there is it's hard to put into words but it is something that moves forward with you for the rest of your life right like hopefully this show gets to air so I can share that with people but for now I'm like this FBI agent holding on to secrets about like why I look at the world differently today right like it's just you know something happens there that is this secret sauce and it's beautiful It is so crazy because it feels like when it's over, I was like, whoa, it was like at a dream and you guys are still in that limbo where you don't know. But walk us through night one. What was it like getting out of the limo and seeing her and seeing the mansion?

Oh my God. Yeah. So it was funny. Like leading up to it, I'm like, you know, I'm this guy from Jersey. Like I know how to talk to a woman. Like I can, you know, no big deal. And then like as the hours are getting closer to, you know, stepping out of the limo, I'm like starting to sweat a little more. and I'm like fumbling over like what I wanted to say.

And then look, yeah, I get out there and I think I had marbles in my mouth. Like I don't remember what I really said. And it's so funny because I was talking to some of the guys around the mansion that night. And it's like, you know, had your conversation with Taylor going. They're like, yeah, it went great. And in the back of my head, I'm like, I don't even remember what I said. So I hope it went great. You know, I don't know if everyone was just lying or what.

But yeah, it is the most nerve-wracking thing in the universe. I think, you know, moving forward, if I'm with a friend or a buddy and he's, like, scared to talk to someone out in public, I'm going to be like, let me tell you a story, all right, because there's nothing more scary. And I know, look, it's TV, maybe people who are listening, like, it doesn't really matter. Like, it is so intense, you know, your first variation of being in front of cameras and bright lights and this beautiful woman in Taylor and she's just standing there and it's, yeah, it's surreal. It's the most nerve-wracking thing. I think my knees were, like, quivered. You know, I don't even know how I was like standing. But, yeah, it was an awesome experience for sure. And I think it sets me up for the future to really not be scared about, like, things that, you know, perhaps I'd be nervous about. What was the dynamic like amongst, like the guys? Because I feel like I've heard kind of mix of like, oh, like, you know, you walked in and like the guys automatically, like some of you guys hit it off very well. And there were some that maybe have like rubbed something you guys wrong.

So like, what was that like for you? I'll try and, you know, not spoil anything, I guess. But, you know, my entrance had some bravado to it. And I was nervous that perhaps people would, you know, think a certain way about me. Luckily, I think everyone was very open-minded to people's personalities. They were less about like, oh, whatever this intro was right, like is defining this person. So I think initially, night one was, it felt like okay. I think everyone was in the same spot, right?

We were a little nervous and trying to figure out, you know, I won't spoil anything else. But yeah, maybe, you know, other things go on along the way that rubs people the wrong way, you know. Can you tease your entrance for us? You said it has bravado. Yeah. I mean, did you see? Like what? If you watch the trailer carefully, you may be able to get a snippet of that.

Let's just say that. So, you know, press pause, you know, and take a look at the trailer. But, yeah, I'm there. Look, it's a very formal occasion. night one, right? And I put my own spin. I put my own spin on things, you know. Wow. Okay. We're going to switch gears a little bit. We heard you're a big sports guy. So who is, like, what is your favorite sport and what's your like, what are your teams? I'm curious. Yeah. So baseball was like always my, my first love, me and my dad, like, you know, he was always a coach. And so baseball is like my

number one and the Yankees are, you know, I'll watch every game. That makes sense. Look, I mean, as a New York fan, I don't want to say I'm a jet fan because that's a little embarrassing, but it's true. I was like, they're horrible. Yeah, it's very bad. But look, I root for all like the New York teams, you know, I'm, I just like hope and pray that, you know, we can win a, you know, World Series or whatever it is soon because we're in a little bit of a drought. But yeah, sports are a huge part of my life. I mean, I think that's maybe that's just most men around here. But like, you know, I really enjoy like the competition.

And just because I have an affinity towards it, because I played for so long that I was going to ask, did you play any sports? Yeah, yeah, I played baseball my whole life growing up. So, you know, just because of that, I think I have, you know, like that soft spot for it. But yeah, big Yankee fan. And hopefully this year goes well for us. We'll see.

Fingers crossed. Okay. So you're an athlete. Did you bring that competitiveness into the house? Or what is your relationship like with the guys? Yeah, okay. So look, I'm somebody who's going to tell you how I feel, right? And I think, you know, you could call it competitive, because you guys know, like a road ceremony has this different feel to it. It is this competition, these nerves, like people are, you know, it's a game seven, right? Like it is like due to my. And so, you know, tensions rise. And, and look, I'm a competitive guy. I think, you know, if I'm feeling something, I'm going to say it to somebody. And yeah, there were certain other things, along the way throughout this process where we got competitive. And, you know, I would like to think I did pretty well in those moments.

But hopefully the world will see it, you know. Hopefully. Yeah. I know. Okay. I've been asking some of the guys, if you guys could sum up or like tease the season in one word, how would you describe it? I don't want to sound like Jesse Palmer, but it was like the most insane.

The most dramatic. And look, I'm not a reality TV junkie by any stretch, so I don't necessarily have things to compare it to. But there was one moment where I'm standing there and I said in my head, I was like, this is the most insane thing that's going on. Like I was, I'm not even trying to be, oh, let's get a snippet. Like it was like I want to tell the world about it. I'm just sitting here like I can't, right? but like there was a moment where my like jaw goes to the floor, you know what I mean? Was this a group date?

I was like you have to tease a little. Like what was this? This was a rose ceremony and it got, uh, let's just say it went a lot longer than it should have because there was a surprise guest and it turned into chaos. A surprise guess. Somebody that was originally on the cast or not. not originally on the cast. I mean, how much do you want me to tease here, Charity? I don't want it all. I'm like, until they say, hey, if that gets, tell me no. If that gets the, uh, if that gets the season out. But no, it was, it was insane. I'll just,

yeah, that was, I was just standing, like, looking around as if I was like, is this really going on? It just felt like, and now, like, when it all sunk in after the fact, I was like, that has to be one of the most iconic rose ceremonies of all time. And I hope the world gets to see it. Yeah. So your one word to describe the season would be what? Iconic. I love that. That's a good one.

Okay, we'll switch gears a little. If you're okay with it, we're going to play a game and it's called hot seat and you are in the hot seat. So we're going to be asking you some questions and we're just going to rapid fire some answers. So I'll go first and I'm actually very interested about this. How long does it take you to go through a tub of aquifer? So you're a huge aquifer guy. Yeah, I am a huge aquifer guy. I do like to stay moisturized. I don't know what that says about me. We love that. Look, I got a I got I got ones in my side drawers. I probably have some in here. I mean, they're, they're all over. So I don't think I'm ever, I don't think I ever reach the bottom of any because they're just always at hand. So it would probably take months. But yeah, always.

Is that that's, I'm assuming that's an essential for you. Like you don't go anywhere without aquifer. Yeah, I keep that thing on me for sure. I keep that thing on me. He's crazy. Aquifer, do you hear this? Right? Into a sponsorship. The next one is, you say you love a wedding dance floor, top three songs to dance to at a wedding. Oh, wow.

See, like, this is like, you know, some people get contentious about like a Bruno Mars at a wedding. They're like, that's like a hot part yes or no, right? Like, I think, you know, you got to do shout. I'm doing the bacon on the ground like animals. You know, like you have to do shout. If you don't have shout on the playlist, I'm going to be. That's a good one. Yeah.

That is a good. Yeah. That's iconic, right? And then you just throw in some, some of the usual. But like, if shout's not on there, I'm going to go home a little disappointed. Oh, man. Okay. Note it.

That is a good one. Okay. What is the most awkward date you've been on? Oh, wow. I've been on a lot of dates, as you guys clearly know by now, And so. Yes, our reformed bad boy. Yes. I would like to pride myself on not really having like a bad date story because look, at the end of the day, I'm a yeah. That is really impressive. Yeah, like I could find common ground. I think, look, you know in the first little bit if you're like into this or not. But eventually like, you know, I have some respect and I can just, you know, chat. And so hopefully I don't think I think I would have been scarred and would know if I had a really bad date story. But I think I'm okay. Yeah. Okay.

He said zero strikes for him. He said, I'm perfect. I don't know what you guys are talking about. Perfect. Yeah. No teasing. Okay. Before we wrap, we want to know if there's anything you want to share with Bachelor

Nation, just maybe words of wisdom, just anything about like what you guys have been going through and, you know, words of encouragement to Lino and anything you want to share. Sure. Yeah. Yeah. I appreciate that. I think, look, um, and, and you guys.

interviewed Casey like last week and and he shares the same sentiments that I do like there is just so many men with amazing stories and and above that like seeing Taylor outside of you know her toxic cycle with this jokester and and at the mansion like look she she was radiating with positive energy and excitement so I want the world to see her in that light and then I also yeah there's just so many great bonds made by the men and lifelong friendships that I hope, you know, the world gets to see. I appreciate Bachelor Nation. I know a lot of them have stuck with us. And I kind of feel like the weird step kid right now. I'm like, want to like join the party, but hopefully I can't too, right? You know, because I think like people would really appreciate this cast. It was exciting.

It was fun. So, you know, I'm just going to keep my fingers crossed. I could control what I can control. and that's just sharing my truth about, you know, this journey and how it's kind of shaped the way in which I'm going to look at the world moving forward, which is, you know, like a lot more positively, glass half full. Like, I'm really, it truly was just groundbreaking in a sense of, like, how I perceive everything now. So hopefully the world gets to see it. But yeah, I appreciate bachelor nation and, you know, everyone we've, you know, I've dealt with over the last few weeks. Like, there's, there's enthusiasm. So hopefully we could get to the finish line. Hopefully. And me and Charity want to officially welcome you if you feel like you are the stepchild.

You guys are not. We are all a big family. And where can Bachelor Nation find you on your new, new socials? Yeah. Yeah. Like, look, it's not too exciting over there. I am trying my best. But it's Mike. That's T-U-R-I-T-O. And that's on Instagram and TikTok. Love it. Everyone go follow him. And welcome to Bachelornation. thank you for being on Bachelor Happy Hour. We loved chatting and fingers crossed for your season. Appreciate you guys. Thank you so much. Okay, guys. That is all for us today. Make sure you guys are rating, subscribing, and reviewing wherever you listen to podcasts and following Bachelor Happy Hour and Bachelor Nation. Bye, everyone. 2%. That's the number of people who take the stairs when there

is also an escalator available. I'm Michael Easter. And on my podcast, 2%. I break down the signs of mental toughness, fitness, and building resilience in our strange modern world. Put yourself through some hardships, and you will come out on the other side a happier, more fulfilled, healthier person. Listen to 2%. That's TWA percent on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hey, what's good, y'all? You're listening to Learn the Hardway with your favorite therapist and host Kear Games. This space is about black men's experiences, having honest conversations that it's really not safe to have anywhere, but you're having them with a licensed professional who knows what he's doing.

How many men carry a suit or armor. It signals to the world that you're not to be played with. And just because you have the capability that does not mean that you need to. Listen and learn the hard way on the AHA radio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast. When a group of women discover they've all dated the same. prolific con artist. They take matters into their own hands. I vowed.

I will be his last target. He is not going to get away with this. He's going to get what he deserves. We always say that trust your girlfriends. Listen to the girlfriends. Trust me, babe. On the Iheart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. On the Look Back at a podcast.

From 1979, that was a big moment for me. 84 was big to me. I'm Sam Jay. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick a year, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it. With our friends, fellow comedians, and favorite authors. Like Mark Lamont Hill on the 80s.

Before it was a wild year. I don't think there's a more important year for black people. Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. In 2023, Bachelor star Clayton Eckerd was accused of fathering twins. But the pregnancy appeared to be a hoax. You doctored this particular test twice, Ms. Owens, correct? I doctored the test once.

It took an army of internet detectives to uncover a disturbing pattern. Two more men who'd been through the same thing. Greg, a lesbian. Michael Mancini. My mind was blown. I'm Stephanie Young. This is Love Trapped. Laura, Scottsdale Police.

As the season continues, Laura Owens finally faces consequences. Listen to Love Trapped podcast on the Eye Heart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This is an IHeart podcast. Guaranteed human.