Bachelor Happy Hour - Maurissa on Finding Love and the Boom-Boom Room Backlash

Episode Date: September 22, 2021

"Bachelor in Paradise's" Maurissa defends her decision to go to the Boom-Boom Room with Riley after their first date. She discusses their immediate attraction to each other, and how that extra time together helped strengthen their relationship. Maurissa also talks about what went through her mind when she saw Demar walk onto the beach. Then, Becca and Tia discuss what it’s like watching back "Bachelor in Paradise" as things start to get more serious between many of the couples. Plus, they share some behind-the-scenes details that didn’t make it onto the show. "Bachelor Happy Hour" has exclusive interviews every week. Watch "Bachelor in Paradise" on ABC and listen to "Bachelor Happy Hour" the next morning. Don’t forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Then Emergency Intercom is the podcast for you. Open your free IHeartRadio app. Search Emergency Intercom and listen now. What's up, Bachelor, Happy Hour listeners. Thank you for joining us on another Wednesday. We are basically almost through paradise. And that's crazy to say. After this, Tia, we'll only have two weeks left.

It's wild. I feel like, too, at this point, is when everybody kind of hit their emotional brain. breaking point, you kind of see people freak out and spiral because it feels more serious and like couples are dropping elbows and everyone else is just trying to figure out what the hell they're doing. Yeah. It was starting to feel like the make or break week where, I mean, the show has done an incredible job of showing some of the love stories unfold. I mean, this week we saw Joe and Serena, well, last week we saw, but Joe and Serena exchanged that they're falling in love with each other.

We saw the same with Mari and Kenny and also with Marissa and Riley. The show is also doing a really great job of skewing some relationships or just not showing any in general. Which makes it very confusing. This is an interesting situation that we find ourselves in because never before has there been co-host podcast co-host who have also now lived through the show. And so we're trying to recap what we saw happen, what we're seeing unfold now. on our TV screens, you know, and we're kind of in two different mindsets because there's obviously a lot that we've missed. So it's a weird position for us to be in. Like I said, it's never happened before. I think we're at the first podcast, at least I would say Bachelor-affiliated podcast. That

is where we're at right now. And I know it's not easy. It's been a struggle for both of us in our different ways. It's something that we've talked about. I know for you, at least, you're struggling right now with seeing your interactions with two men on the beach between Blake and James and a lot of stuff not being shown. So how are you doing, holding up with everything? Yeah, so that's the kind of thing that makes it tricky is I feel like up until this point, we've seen all these other couples flourish. And that's so great. And I'm so glad that the show is focused on that. but it's almost like we know exact conversations that were had and we know things that were left out

and exactly things that happened. So it's hard not to want to talk about it on here. But yeah, it's just, especially with the show only being two hours a week instead of four, only so much can be shown. So it's unfortunate that it doesn't show more details of my, you know, relationship between or with James and with Blake. It was very difficult that week. That's how I know I was never destined to be The Bachelorette because it was hard for me to choose between two people.

So it is going to be a little bit confusing to see why I was so stressed and frustrated and all that. But also same thing with you and Thomas and Abigail and Noah. Like those are relationships that aren't really shown as much. And it just kind of sucks that not every little detail can be shown. It's interesting because we're so invested, not only with ourselves and our stories unfolding, but also with our friends on the beach. So there's a lot. We're just very invested. And it's interesting to take the support and love for some people or maybe like the scruntledness that we have for other people on the show and try to still give an objective podcast.

Yeah, yeah, there's a lot. Um, I mean, and each day, like, to be honest, the weeks and the days get so muddled because there's so much that transpired. Um, and it's difficult to keep it all straight because there are so many different sorts of relationships. And it's not even done. Like, we saw more men arrive to the beach this week. We'll see more people arrive to the beach next week. But then it's, it's crunch time. I think one of the biggest things, too, was seeing Kendall leave. Mm-hmm. I didn't really expect her to leave. I mean, it made sense. in that situation. But I really like how Serena handled that with Joe. Like she was trying to comfort him because she could tell that he was bummed. So we did see that. We didn't see him to leave. We were sad.

Yeah. We were. And I don't think anyone thought she was going to leave that night in the way that she did. I mean, she did, like whether people want to believe it or not. I mean, like it does seem like she was very hung up on Joe still,

but she did come in with such an open mind. in an open part. Like her and I had and were into each other. Yeah, yeah, she was really into him. And they kind of, they connected over like their different, interesting, unique hobbies. And they had really good in-depth conversation. So she was really all in to try to find something that she found the last time around when she was on Paradise with Joe. It unfortunately was cut short.

It didn't end in the way she thought. But I think at that point, after the conversation she did have with Joe and seeing him with Serena. She just felt like, you know, they're so far along. I'm not right now with Ivan, so it's better and probably healthier for me to now remove myself to give them the best shot I love, which honestly is pretty admirable. I don't know many people that, that, you know, have gone through a relationship and then a very public breakup and still wish that much love and respect and overall well wishes on somebody.

So I think all three of them handled it in the best way that they could, in the most way that they could, in the most respectful way possible, truly. For sure. So we see that unfold. We see a lot of the really strong relationships and connections unfold. So many I love users. I'm falling in love with views were exchanged. Kenny and Mari finally got there. And then Riley and Marissa finally got there.

What else? I'm trying to think of what other major dramatic moments. The shutdown. Oh, yeah. We thought we were going to be blown to smithereens. Like that's, for people like watching, obviously you know you've never seen producers come out like that. But those were like the top execs of the show that walked out to tell us that everything was shutting down. I thought they were going to be like, okay, last day of paradise, get the fuck out.

But that was an actual chance that everything was going to be blown away. So we had to bow. But deep down, we were excited because we knew we were going to a safe hotel, a safe place with AC, a great. shower, hair dryer. All of the girls, if you see everyone coming back the next day, they look fresh face. Serena's hair was dry. Like they got so much sleep. It was incredible. I mean, I worked with Chelsea when we were at the hotel. And I think everyone passed out really early. Chelsea and I stayed up way too late drinking wine and talking till God knows when. And finally we were like, we should probably go to bed because we actually are able to get a full night sleep in this

moment. So we should utilize that to the full advantage. We also got the buffet the next day, which was so good. Oh yeah, breakfast buffet. I mean, we just tried to make something out of nothing, you know, and we were so happy. So then we went back for the cocktail party. We didn't know that it was going to be a cocktail party that day, but it was a daytime one. And it was hot. Eat was very hot. It was just like dense and so humid. We ended on another dramatic high note on a to be continued because we see this little love triangle with Ivan, Aaron, and now Chelsea, I kept saying, just be the bachelor's girl, you know, kiss all the guys. Who do you want to give that rose to? Test it out. We had this makeup chart that we were writing

everyone. But we see Aaron and Ivan get into it to be continued. We will see what happens next week. And I'm telling you, it's going to be juicy. It is going to be so juicy. You guys will I get a way to see it. You will not want to miss what's about to come next week. It's one for the for the history books of Paradise. But with that, we have one of our favorite friends coming on chat all things, Paradise, Drama, Love, and that is with Marissa. So without any more waiting, ladies and gents, please welcome Marissa to Bachelor Happy Hour. It is so good to see you. You, I know our listeners can't see you, but you look stunning. You have this lovely Paradise glow to you. I think that's, it might have a reason to do because we saw you tell Riley last night on the

episode that you're falling in love with him. But before we get into all of that, welcome to Bachelor Happy Hour. Tia and I are so thrilled to have you this week. I mean, you are a girl. How have you been since everything has wrapped and since you've been watching it all back now? I've been good. I mean, just live in life, you know, stay and busy. same very busy but i mean it's different it's all new for me like this whole experience is completely

new especially because i got stay at home the first night so i only got to see myself one day and watching it this far i mean it's been fun it's cool it's different well it's like you just said it it has to be a complete 180 because you know it's one night versus now you're actually in the midst of your very own love story. And I think what I've heard a lot, and I'm sure Tia can attest this too, is so many people ask and question, you know, is the show real? Like, do you really have feelings? Like, how does that work or is it all scripted and fake? And it's like, no, you actually, like, if you're invested and give it, you're all, you can find love. And I, you're a testament to that in your relationship with Riley, which is something so fun to watch, which I really want to get into

some of the fun details. You know, we had Riley on last week to talk about the whipped cream and the toe sucking and all that stuff. So we can't wait to get your take. But before we do that, let's go back to the beginning of Paradise because you were there day one on the beach. Your first, I would say connection wasn't, however, with Riley. It was with Connor.

And Tia and I weren't there to see that interaction, that relationship take place. But could you kind of take us back and describe. you know, that relationship with him because he seemed so into you. So give us your side of everything and that relationship that you two had. Yeah, I mean, Connor was amazing. He, as soon as I walked down on the beach, it's so funny because he just like, I walked into the group of guys and I was like, so are y'all just here to entertain each other? Or are you going to try to get to know me? Because I'm pretty sure this is the dating show, right? And Connor was the first. And he's like oh he's like he's like I'll entertain you so he pulled me outside and I was wearing long

flowy pants so he did this like tuck thing where he rolled them up for me and just right there I was like oh my gosh like that is this sweetest thing no guys like it was like Cinderella in a moment kind of because he was like rolling out making sure my pants didn't get wet so we could walk in the ocean and just like yeah and then like right after that That was the first day, like, within the first hour. And he and I just kind of pitted off, and we were hanging out the whole rest of the night. And he just, the thing about Connor is he is hilarious. Like, he constantly had me laughing.

Like him, Demi, and I, we were like the three little musketeers. And we were just cracking jokes left and right. And I think, like, that's what attracted me to Connor, because he typically, like, isn't someone that I would typically. date, but his personality-wise and how much funny, how much funny was, like, it was great. Conner's a cool cat. No pun it did. Literally. Yeah.

I learned a few puns from him, too. Oh, my gosh. I swear he needs to write a pun book. We had him on Bachelor Happy Hour. I met him very, very briefly the night I came in, but we had him on Bachelor Happy Hour, and he's just witty. He's so funny. he's just charming to talk to he's just really easy like a good dude but he needs to make a pun

book because like for all the dads out there with the dad jokes they could take a page out of his book um seriously we would play games where i'd just like give him a topic i'd throw something out there and he would go on and on about like with puns for it so we see you and Connor you know establish some sort of relationship fresh out the gate but then Riley comes on to that beach And you can't miss Riley with those big old guns of his. And I mean, right away, you just seemed drawn to Riley. Like, it was very apparent. So when he came on the beach, besides the fact of you being very attracted to him and excited,

I think any woman would be excited for a very handsome man to walk down onto the beach, but being excited for him to begin with going through your mind, did you ever worry about what would this do to Connor? Take us back to your thought process when you're kind of in the midst of Connor and Riley. Yeah, absolutely. I mean, in that moment, during Connor and I's relationship, even, I was pretty sad. Like, I'm like, okay, I kind of have an idea of the people that are in Bachelor Nation.

Anyone else could walk down, you know? And I'm like, I like Connor. Like, he is a great guy. And then all of a sudden, when Riley came down, I was just like, whoa. Like, I had never heard of him, never, like, seen him. Never, no. So I'm like, and I, the whole time I heard Taj Wan just, like, talking about this,

Riley, Riley, like, I'm excited for Riley. And I'm all, who's Riley? Is it a boy or a girl? And so, it was so funny because, like, we saw him out of the corner of our eye and we're all, like, who is this man? But as far as, like, Connor, it was, it was hard. Like, it was really hard just because he, not only is Connor such an amazing man, now I have to choose from like two amazing men.

Like, they're both great. They were both sweethearts. And honestly, they both, like, were very caring towards me. And that's what I loved about both of them. But when it came to, like, having to choose, I knew, like, right away, like, went after, Riley and I went on our date. And it was tough with Connor. Like, even getting up the next morning, I'm like, I don't know how I'm going to do this. Like, I'm going to have to break it to him. And we had multiple conversations that day about the entire situation. But he was just such a

great sport. Like, it even proved. It made me even more upset, like, the way Connor handled everything. Just because he's just so sweet. He even pulled Riley, like, to the side. We didn't get to see this and he was like hey like marissa's a great girl she says great things about you but i just want to make sure like you take care of her and all that and i'm just like Connor you're making this even harder it must be like so sweet and so then of course like i'm thinking hopefully i'm making the right decision you know and so yeah i mean it was tough your connection with riley is undeniable though like you can just tell through the screen that you guys just instant Sparks, yeah. Yeah, that chemistry. I mean, and we, as a viewer, I mean, we obviously were on the

beach with the two of you and could see it firsthand, but even watching your first date, like, the chemistry was there and the conversation flowed. You guys were very much, very, very open to begin with, but very much on the same page. So let's get into that first date with Mr. Lance Bass at the Lance Bassery. You know, as a viewer, that connection was just. fire. Granted, you had a lot of different interesting things that you were trying that night, but you both seemed into it. And there was a lot of buzz on the internet that night about you and Riley going into the boom, boom room, you know, fresh at the gate. So what do you have to say to all the trolls out there? Because we, like I said, Riley on last week, he had your back,

he defended you. I love what he said too about like people wish they had good conversation, good physical chemistry, and then go back to wanting to date each other. And I'm like, that's exactly, that's exactly my thought process on everything. And it's just like, we're two consenting adults, first of all. I mean, like, I know during our date we had such an amazing time and we got back to the beach and we wanted to continue our conversation. And so as to consenting adults, we went into the boom boom room together, which is fine. I mean, people act, the difference between my situation and other people's situation is that

is not on national TV. And I'm not afraid to talk about it. You know, so. And if nothing else, you get to have a conversation off camera, exactly, air conditioned room. Exactly. The air condition room and the conversations. I mean, it was nice also because it allowed us more time together, too. So that's why we were able to build a connection so fast, you know, we would have more conversation and get deeper sometimes, you know? Yeah. Well, and that's why I think, I mean, you know, this is really your first time going through a full show. But that's the beauty of paradise. And even before coming on when I was on the fence just personally about wanting to come or not, talking with a lot of people who have done it in the past or even the producers, they're like, you have unlimited. time. It's not very structured like the bachelor and bachelor's where you have these set dates. It's you know, very minimal time until you really get further along. It's like you, once you get out to that beach, you have optimal time with that person. So that's why when people question like, oh my gosh, how could somebody fall in love or get engaged that quickly? It's like you spend

24-7 with this person. So much more time. And I was that person too. Like I was that person that was like, there's no way you can fall in love with someone this quick on TV. Like, it's got to be fake, you know, especially because I didn't go through it before. And just with Riley, when I knew, I knew. Oh, yeah. All day, every day together. Like, we, and no phones, no access to the outside world, like, none of that. So we have no distractions, no outside influences, like family, you know, or social media.

And so we really get to know each other. Like we get to have conversations and get to find out about each other's lives. Yeah. And like figure it out for yourself. Yeah. You don't have like your best friend or you're a cousin or anybody else. Right. Like stuff from the past or going through their social media.

You just figure it out for yourself. Exactly. But another cool thing about it too is you do have that unlimited alone time with the person. But you also have like we all became super close. Like we're all friends. I would say like a lot of us. became like family and so it's nice to see your partner whoever that might be interacting with not only the rest of us but with producers with the camera crew with audio just to see how everyone

is treated and like you know embraces each situation i think it's very very telling um and i will say marissa we did see you kind of spiraled the night of the VIP party when you stayed on the beach and when riley was at the party but for somebody who was there and witness at first hand, you had nothing to worry about besides Riley. The only interaction, the only flirting Riley was doing was what that dance floor. Like, he, he was, he was so sweet, because, like, he would talk to everyone throughout the night and, you know, he'd be like, man, I'm, I wish Marissa was here. And just, like, you know, I saw that side of him. I wasn't with you on the beach. But to watch it back, I was like, oh, this girl has nothing to worry about.

Oh my goodness. I know. I feel like a fool. I mean, I was not only spiraling. I was like, I was ready to go home. I'm like, I just, ugh. Yeah. I was, I was, the thing was is, I think what triggered me was just Sienia coming back. And after her whole situation and everything that happened, I think I was just like, holy cow. Like, if that could happen to one person, it could happen to anybody. Yeah. And it's, I mean, in the real world, do you have your phone to text if your guy, you know, goes out with his homies you know like you can text him like hey how's you're not going like what's up you know check it in and it's just like every thought is going through your mind at this point because you absolutely have no idea and then she comes back with this horrible news and it's just like holy shit oh no am i next you know oh man it's and it doesn't help when everyone's like anything can happen in paris oh my goodness and then like i was i was like making sure I never said the words, we are the strongest couple on this beach right now because every time that gets said, it's like, you jinxed. Now and that to happen. You jinx it. Okay. Can we get into the good stuff?

Yes. I need to talk to you about this whipped cream, Marissa. I told Riley, I woke up the next day and I was because I couldn't get any strawberries for breakfast. But you, we see you set up this cute little picnic on the beach with the whipped cream and the strawberries and the champagne and then you know you tell him pick out a little piece of paper and there's a body part on there so i need to know because you licked i mean you liked his toe for goodness sake i i liked his toe he's a nice nice foot though it was bad how is there not sand on it i had sand everywhere rightly was wearing shoes that day like so he actually has shoes and socks on that he took on God bless him.

So that was the first thing. I was like, oh, okay. Like, it shouldn't be too bad. And then, of course, I'm thinking, what if it's, like, sweaty and stinky, though? But wasn't my... Was it stinky? No. No, I mean, honestly, I don't even really, like, remember.

It's just I was just like, I can't believe I'm doing this. And, but when I drew the toe, the only thing going through my mind is, like, I'm really into this, man. But what do I look like eating a pig nose? know it was a tongue, but I won't lick whipped cream off of his toe. I was like, yeah, they're pretty at that point, you just got to go for it. Yeah. Wait, would you rather lick whipped cream off of his toe or have him lick whipped cream off of yours? Have him lip whipped cream off of mine. Interesting. I don't think, I don't know, I'm so weird with my feet that I hate when people touch my feet. I also just don't like touching feet, but I don't. You should try it.

writing some good looking feet though I'll give him that I mean there are some feet on that beach that I would not go with the 10 foot pole near oh no and it's so crazy because I was like I must like this dude because I first of all hate feet

like feet gross me out and freak me out and I was like I must be really into this man I literally licked his toe your sucking toes two weeks later you would have thought is there anything you wrote down that you wish you would have pulled that you could have liked?

No, because it's all good. We took the whipped cream afterwards. Everything got it. Everything got of. Is there any area that you really wouldn't want

to put the whipped cream on and lick off of? Or was the toe like the lowest of the lows? I thought the toe might have been the lower. You did the dirty work, honey. You earned the wrist. You know what?

I said, to toe for the rose okay you did you earned that rose babe some of these can even set up a conversation and she's sucking toes yes come on exactly come on on dudes y'all have to step up the girls freaking went above and beyond i'm sorry seriously i mean riley riley did pretty good i mean the rap yeah that was i just i remember watching i remember watching you two walk away being like where the hell are they going and noah's like oh she's got something playing you guys were actually gone for a while everyone was like where the hell are they are they even gonna is anyone gonna make sure they make it to the rose ceremony or does she just like automatically get this because of what just transpired around the beach because i just sucked his toe it was so good honestly i think we were all a little jealous you had some sweet treats you had a handsome man you had the ac you probably i'm assuming like you guys were gone a while like i'm hoping you got a little nap in that boom boom room that night because that was a late night

Yeah, Daniel, fall asleep. Okay, yeah, so it's so funny. Well, so, I mean, you guys know, Riley, his favorite thing to do is sleep. Everywhere we look, every time we look over, Riley just be sleeping somewhere. And so we get up to the room, passes out right away. And then, of course, me, I'm like, I just plan this whole date for you and you're falling asleep on me. He's so sweet. He's like, I'm sorry, I'm like, come on.

Wake up. Wake up. Slap his face a little bit. Good morning, honey. Oh, my God. I loved it. You guys just, you both have this great combo of obviously like depth and intimacy, but then also with the comedic relief at times. And you just like, the balance between the two of you, for me as a viewer and as a friend, it's just like all there. It's the full package.

And it's been fun to watch now behind the scenes to see what you two say. about each other because obviously there's a lot that we miss when we're not present and like physically talking to you um so it has been just so exciting as a friend to watch uh okay so last night let's get into the minimal drama for a hot second because you've established this incredible intimate strong relationship with riley but then demur walks into the beach and i remember you and i we we had had conversations of you know who did you expect or want to see coming on to the beach. And you had told us, like, Damar was the only guy that you had named. And so when we saw him and Ed come down, we all knew how strong you and Riley were. So I don't think anyone really was

worried. But, you know, in that situation, when Jamar pulls you to go chit-chat and that you guys are, you know, he was, I knew up and, yeah. And you had expressed some sort of interest before Riley came down. What was that like, were you just like, ah, shit? Or are we like, no, I'm good. I feel stable right now? So, I mean, like, the week before I was like, oh, my gosh, I don't know what to do. Like, what if DeMar comes down any day now? Like, because I know that that's who I wanted to see coming in. But like I said before, like I had no idea who Riley was.

So I didn't even know anything about him. But when DeMar came, I was like, that conversation, when we had that conversation, I was like, this isn't it? Like, I feel a spark with Riley. When Riley told me to have that conversation, it was like an instant connection. And then with DeMari, it was just more like a friend. And so I knew. I knew right away.

Because they, he actually asked me if I would go on the date with him if he asked. And I was like thinking in my head, I'm like, maybe. Like, this could be fun, you know? And that's how you know if you found your person, if you explore your options, you know. But just in that. conversation, I was like, this isn't Riley. All I wanted to do is go back. I'm like, where's her I? Like, I'm sitting like, looking out of the quarter of my eye. It doesn't hurt though. It kind of like light of fire under Riley's ass to be like,

oh, literally my girl with someone else. Like, this is how I know I'm actually into her because I feel a little jealous. Pretty much that's like kind of why I was like maybe like flirting a little bit. I'm like, okay, maybe I'd go on this date. Like maybe, maybe. But I knew I wasn't going on that date. He was like, when you were gone. He was like, what am I supposed to do? Just watch them talk. We were like, yeah.

Yeah. We've all done it. Well, and I like, I just didn't think, because he hadn't expressed to me yet, like, his true feelings. And so ever, like, my mind was just spiraling. I'm like, did I make the right decision by not going on this date? Like, is Riley here for the same thing I'm here for? And that's kind of when, that's kind of when I just had to have that conversation with him,

you know, open up. and tell him like look talk yeah what actually forced you to get to that point because we've all been in the position and i think you made a comment like i know i have to have this conversation there's some sort of disconnect in riley's actions versus what he's telling me and i want to get there and we as women and i'm sure men have been there too definitely where it's like you know you need to do something but you also are afraid of the outcome of you know potentially pushing someone away or getting in an argument that is uncomfortable. And no one obviously wants to have to get to that point with somebody.

What made you just be like, okay, now's the moment, tonight's the night. We need to, it's like, it was like your make or break time, I would say. So what made you get into that mindset and force yourself to actually be able to express to him what you needed out of him? Yeah. So, well, I came into paradise with the intention on finding my husband, like day one. I'm like, I'm finding my husband. And so when DeMar came down, that had me questioning Riley.

I'm like, what if I made a mistake? Like, what if he's not here to find a wife? Like, you know, or he doesn't see that with me. So I'm like, you got to find out because your husband could leave next week. And like, that could have been your possible husband, you know? But since I didn't like open up and have and go on the day with DeMar, all that was running through my head. I'm like, did I make the right decision? like you got to have this conversation with him because you're not going to find out unless you ask

like usually that's what I do in relationships like I just sit back and I don't express my true feelings but I sit and bottle them up and I'm just trying to go with the flow and then that turns into a year or two situation ship you know and I'm like I'm here to find my husband so I'm to have that conversation like other couples too were telling each other they were falling in love and all this is going on around you and you're like, damn, why am I not at that point? Like, might as well just ask and see what's going on. Yeah, exactly. I'm like, the worst thing he's going to do is tell me you don't want to be with me and then I'm going to be like, bye, paradise. I'm out. Deuces. So you have this conversation with Riley and he actually opened up a lot. And we weren't privy

to seeing this side of him. Obviously, you were now watching back we are. But he opened up a lot about his father, his upbringing. Were you expecting for him to open up that much and to be that vulnerable? Or was that a complete shock to you? I wasn't expecting it at all. I was really shocked, especially because the way I came at him, it was more so me questioning myself. I'm like, who hurt you?

Like, why are you so closed up? And since I've never watched this, like, I never watched his season before. So I didn't know any backstory whatsoever. So I'm thinking he's going to tell me, like, a relationship story or a heartbreak, you know, and he just opened up completely. And I was like, wow. And I'm like, this is why you act the way you do. Thank you for talking to me.

Like, this is how we're going to make progress here because at this point, like, you're holding everything back. So we're not going to, we're not going to progress anywhere. Would you say vulnerability is a turn on in man? Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah, for sure. like when he like i was just looking at him i'm like i love you literally i just wanted to put it out there right there in that moment well and you were so sweet and patient like at one point when he was

you know crying and opening up to you just like grabbed his face and like put your head into his neck and i got the chills i was like this is the relationship i think anyone coming on that beach is looking for and i remember the next day because we had all you know with the girls we all have our chats And you had mentioned at one point, you know, he shows me how he cares, but he doesn't necessarily always open up and I need more of that communication. And so the next day, I remember seeing you and we had a conversation and you were all cool. You were like, it was a really good night. He really opened up. We had no idea. It was at that level. And it was so beautiful to watch that intimate moment between you two and have him feel like you were his safe haven to be able to open up in that

space. I mean, we saw a little bit, a little bit of it and his background when he was on the Bachelorette, but not like what we saw in this episode. And I think it was really, really special to see. And so again, when I say you have this beautiful connection and combination of like the intimate and the sensual and the sexual and the chemistry, but with the communication now and like those gentle moments, it's so incredible. Like this is like a true love story that we're all watched unfold. It's so sweet. Yeah. And I, I was fun to watch, like myself, watching our story just because in that, well, in that moment, I just wanted to make sure he was okay because I could only imagine, like, he already shared a story like this on national TV, got a lot of comments back, you know, had to go through all this. And now me having him open up and do it again, I just, like, I just wanted to be there to comfort him because when he was telling me that, like, and he was.

being emotional. He was like, I told myself, I wouldn't do this again. Like, you know, and so in that moment, I'm like, oh, shit, it's my fault. Like, I'm sorry for making you feel this way, but thank you. Yeah, but your response in how you reacted, I'm sure allowed him to like break down some more walls and feel comfortable with you to continue to do that. So that was like a scary conversation for you, but it paid off. Yeah. It was so nice to watch. And like a big, girly man just kind of break down and be like, hey. it was and i had a lot of things i wanted to say that night like just to get out there and i was just like speechless afterwards i couldn't even talk back you know i'm like thank you for sharing that

information with me and i didn't even know how to react really i'm sure it exceeded all expectations because yeah then we go on to see you both tell each other that you're falling in love with one another and you could tell you wanted to say it so bad so bad so bad how was it like saying like was it just like wanting to burst out of you yeah well it had been wanting to since probably like the second day like i'm like i love this man oh you would tell us you would tell us that you loved him you just never told him and you would be like you said that to me i'm like no you're like that yeah we all do it's right yeah um but yeah it was it was a good moment it was exciting and it was like relieved i was relieved to hear him say it back like that's that was the

scariest part because i'm like oh my gosh i do not want to look like a fool first of all i've never done that before like told a man first that i'm falling in love with him and then let alone do it on tv for millions of people to see exactly and then i'm like hopefully he says it back but but not even that he also wanted you to meet his mom, he said, which is a very big deal. So, yes. Yeah. That's when I knew it was like his feelings for me were real just because I've heard the way he talks about his mom all the time and the relationship that he does have with his mom. So when he said that, I'm like, it's sealed. I got it. Oh my God. Marissa, I totally, I don't think I ever told you this. It had to have been like the first week I was there. So it had to have been before Hugh and him exchange, I love you. But I remember sitting, eating breakfast with Riley, and I want to say Joe was there. It was like the three of us.

And Riley's just eating his breakfast and we're talking about, you know, like the end of this, who could potentially get engaged. And I looked at Riley at one point because Riley and I, like, we had had him on the podcast. One of my good friends who's a producer is really close with Riley. So she, you know, like she'll be on FaceTime with him. Like we had chatted like very platonically as friends. and his mom was on it at one point and so I was like Riley your mom's so great

she's so sweet like how would you feel bringing Marissa home to her and he just like kind of put his head down and smiled into his breakfast and he's like you know what I feel good about it and I don't know he was eating the eggs or like some of scramble and bacon and whatever it was and he was just

his response was priceless and he got kind of bashful and looked down but he's like I feel pretty good about it I was like I love it this is great this is great so he i think knew early on whether he expressed it a little bit later than than you maybe wanted uh i think he knew he was falling he's so sweet he'd be like giving me kisses or coming to check on me but i'm like tell me you like me like you're showing me but i need

those words sometimes yeah is that your love language words of affirmation i think at the end of paradise i realize my love language is every single love language same because I'm like, I need this. Yeah. I mean, physical touch might be number one. And then maybe the worst. Yeah. I think the shutdown was the next day too. Marissa was in. She's like, I just told my man, I'm in love with him. And now I got a room with a chick. I want to see my man. Yeah. Marcy, you know, I get so mad. You were like, we already are sleeping together in the boom boom room. Can't we just sleep together at the hotel? Yeah. She's like, I'm not doing interviews. I don't want to do ITMs, tell them I don't feel good until they let me see Riley. I'm not doing shit. And I'm

like, I was being a little brat. I know. I was just like, come on. You made him a little bracelet. It was so cute. I didn't. I miss my man. I'm like, that was that was the worst that bracelet. Tia. I was working on that thing for like two hours and I'm like, he better love this. Did she do her together? Did she do her together? Yeah. Pia and every roommate. Oh my gosh. I was trying to figure out where everyone's room was. Abigail and Abigail and Natasha were like in the room right next. So I was on the balcony trying to like scream and be like, hi. We slept the whole time. Yeah, we slept the whole time. Anytime the phone would ring, I'd be like, is it Riley? If it's not Riley, I don't want to talk. And then every time someone would be at the door to knock,

I'd be like, if it's not Riley, go home. And then see her. She's like, yeah, she doesn't want to talk if you're not right after i interviewed i was like they're going to get your man go to the interview room go get him in there everyone was so excited to finally be in air conditioning to have like a comfortable bed with windows without bugs and marissa's the only one who's pissed she's like i want put me back in the storm i don't care i want yes i don't care with riley i'm good all weather this tropical storm which it means i'm with my man um okay so he was very verbal really wife. Literally.

Yeah. Like, my girl is like, can I call my dad? For real. I was like, it's Father's Day

I need to call my dad. I don't give a shit about these dudes. Oh, it was. Yeah, I remember that. Okay, I want to get into just some

other off the show stuff because we've seen you show our girl, Natasha, so much love on social media. I mean, she's gone through it in the past,

couple of weeks with the whole Brendan and Piper situation. So what are your overall thoughts now, not only being their important person and witnessing all of that, but now seeing everything unfold in a different light? Just give us your thoughts on that entire love triangle situation. Yeah. Well, so during Paradise, it was while they were in their relationship, Brendan and Natasha, a lot of us didn't really get to see what we actually saw. on TV because they were very private at the same time when they were having their conversations or about their whole relationship in general and so hearing and seeing it I I could only imagine how Natasha was feeling so of course like I wanted to

be that friend to support her because I was there with her and that throughout that experience and I could only imagine her for the last like month or so So, like, before even seeing it, like, she, she knows what went on. She was really the only one that heard every single conversation. And watching it back, I'm just sure, first of all, like, no woman deserves to be treated like that in general, but it's almost like it was a game. And that's kind of what disgusted me when I watched it. and honestly first of all i just want to like say how proud i am of natasha for the way that

she's handling everything because if that were me i don't i don't know ma'am no no no no especially hearing the little conversations that he didn't think anyone would hear like when he was trying to rub on his mind it's like you can still hear yeah and i know it was because i talked to her before the show even aired and um like asked her how she was doing with everything and she was going through it like you know he was really worried about the whole situation and i didn't realize how extreme it was during that time so watching and i'm like you are so strong girl like you are a strong girl and very light and very elegant where you're handling it because a lot of people I know wouldn't handle it the same way she's been she I feel like has taken the high road here and has

been very classy throughout at all I mean yeah she as you just said like she has been struggling she was struggling I think she was really worried about everything playing out and you know like we've all been there we've all had relationships that haven't worked out and we have known the full truth and we've been screwed over if you want to use that phrase where we felt dumb we felt like an idiot and i think that's how i think that's how she was feeling for a while but i think it's a great thing to now be able to see all sides of every conversation between her and piper and her and brend and brend and piper and the things that we they didn't think would be ever caught on camera and aired um it's very enlightening but she has so much support i think

in a lot of us that were down on the beach like you said there's so much like we we knew kind of what was going on but we didn't know the full extent um and i think she appreciates the love and support that you have shown her that other people on that beach and just i think viewers in general have shown her um one thing that rubbed us the wrong way i mean there there was a lot there was a lot that rubbed us the very wrong ways but but one thing that people keep bringing up to this stay now is the whole disgruntled female comment from Brendan. I didn't ask you, I would wear this with a badge of honor at this point. Are you a little bit proud to be a disgruntled female? Absolutely. I got mugs coming to me. I got sweat. Didn't you have a coffee cuff? Yes. You had that

coffee cup. Was it a coffee cup that said discrenaled female? I'm like, yes. I've got that on its way to me now and then I'm like added in my bio, disgruntled female out of, how can we buy one? They have them on, or I don't know, it was on an Instagram page. Someone made them and they're like, hey, since you're one of them, do you want me to send you on? I'm like, oh my gosh. She's like, it was inspired by you. So thanks. T and I obviously were part of that confrontation with Brendan, but I would love to buy one. If anyone, whoever is selling this, on Instagram. I would love to support my girls. I will stand behind my disgruntled females. I mean, listen, if Tia and I were there, we would be the same, we would be the same way. So that's literally

where we're at right now. So good. When I saw you post that mug, I was like, yeah. I need this. Put some T in there. Did you see Brendan's apology? Oh, yeah. Video. I didn't see an apology, but. I know. I wonder if you said anything actually to Natasha, because it sounded like he was talking to Natasha through this public video. Has he apologized to you? No, no, he has not. Riley said he hasn't returning his calls either.

Nope. He has not apologized to me. I wonder if he's apologized to any of the other girls that were involved, but it sounded, yeah, like watching it back, it seems like he's just trying to save face at this point and put it out to the masses because he's been getting so much backlash. But I think it would go way further in anyone's mind

to actually have him reach out to the women he offended directly, as opposed to just putting it up for his dwindling followers. Honestly, yeah. And looking at my eyes, I'm like, sweetheart, you should have stopped while you were, like, just say, I screwed up. I'm sorry. I screwed it. Just own up to it, you know?

And to me, it wasn't even really an apology. I'm just like, own up to your shit, dude. Like, I would have more respect for you if you just said I fucked up. I'm sorry. Right. Not seven minutes of apologies to your followers who don't care. Some random. Yeah.

Marissa, we have seen so much more of you on Paradise. And for that, I am so happy because you are just an incredible friend. You are incredible woman. And what's the biggest difference between Marissa who went on Peter's season versus the Marissa now that went on to Paradise and afterwards? It's funny. So when I went on Peter's season, I was very shy. Like I didn't really talk a lot. Just kind of quiet, didn't know what to expect because first of all, I had never watched The Bachelor before even going on Peter's season.

And so going back this time, I'm like, I'm going to be myself. I'm going to have fun with it. Like, I'm going to let everyone see everything, like, just be myself. Mm-hmm. And we love it. We love to see it. I mean, they got it all. Y'all got it all.

You got the happy, sad, the crazy, the cry, like, all of it. I miss taking naps with you. Oh, my gosh. Becca taught me how to sleep. Holder glass. Holding a champagne glass. holding the shriego. And guess what? So I tried it one time and I ended up getting into like a deep sleep all of a sudden and spilt it all over me and just had champagne all over my test. And I'm like, Becca, how do you do this? Like, you're still. Marissa and I would always take naps literally everywhere in our room.

We would hold hands, so we'd always be holding hands with one hand, and then we would have our glass of champagne, like, on our chest or our stomach. And one time, one time, you know, you drop the champagne, but that's okay. We'll practice. Well, come back out to Elix, you know, we'll practice. Well, I'm not naps, the shots. Marissa is being a personal. I couldn't do it myself, so she did it for me, and it was fantastic.

Also, Marissa, a true friend. one night going into a rose ceremony, I didn't have lip gloss on. And Marissa was like, just kiss my lips. I just put some fresh lip gloss on. So she made sure my ass had lip gloss on. Right. Right or die. I swear Marissa told Riley to hop us up too. Marissa's like, she's single, hype her up. And she says, I would. I would like, I'd be like, go tell her she looks so good. Come on. She looks so good. Marisa, you are such a girl's girl. We are so happy that. we've had you on. I miss you like crazy. But before we let you go, we have to play a game.

We played this with Riley actually last week. It's the Paradise Superlative game. So basically, we're going to give you a quick little sentence and then you have to rapid fire and tell us who you think fits at best. And I'm just interested to see how your answers to his match up. Tia, do you want to start with it? Yeah. Okay. So rapid fire, first one, funniest in paradise. Are you? Tia. Me? okay best dressed in paradise me or noah we were tying riley did say noah wow but he said you later on biggest flirt biggest flirt in paradise demi cry baby of paradise McKenna he said he said that too

most outspoken the first second she got off the beach and every day every hour what is she doing I'm like probably crying wait did I already wait did you ask that one

or did I ask that one? No I'll ask the most outspoken Okay most outspoken in paradise Aaron he's got a lot to say don't know if it means anything I don't know how much sense it makes

half the time but okay life to the party in paradise um demi for sure oh yeah she was very missed best dancer in paradise ooh I would have to give that one to Riley with the worm

he did he was busting moves out there oh man we need to get all the footage that people didn't see okay I already know what your answer is going to be for this one sexiest in paradise oh riley you both said each other so that's good yeah we also know what this next one's going to be yeah next one too most muscular in paradise riley yeah riley wins like half of these riley they all go to him okay heartbreaker of paradise um um oh I don't know. I know. I feel like everybody had their Mari. Mari. Yeah. That's poor Katie. Who did Riley say?

Riley said. Oh yeah. Riley did say to you. It's like not of purpose. You know, you gotta break a few hearts to get to where you want to get to you. I get it. Marissa, it has been such an absolute blast. I miss you. crazy we're so happy that you were able to come on and be with us today because we love seeing you we love watching you and your relationship unfold but it's always just good to have everyone on to get to know you for you a little bit more so thank you for being here today you guys for having me i miss you love seeing your love story it's the best like seeing in person was so great but watching it back

has been so nice too yeah it's cute this is why people watch the show it's because you guys have it all you have the love the funny the like everything everything so yeah we love yeah we can't wait to see you again i love you guys we love you thank you for having me go practice you're now taking with champagne glass and a side of whipped cream so whipped cream whipped cream and strawberries all around you yes all right girl we'll talk to you soon i absolutely love marissa she looks no no she looks stunning she looks so good she's glowing she's got that paradise glow to her i absolutely loved chatting with her and it's just kind of fun to hear

the conversation that we had last week compared to our conversation with her because i feel like they're so similar in a lot of their answers and responses um and you can tell they're on the same page and as a viewer it's like we were obviously there as friends to witness it all but it's just so much more to now watch it back so i am so glad we had marissa on. So a huge thank you to her. Tia, it's always a blast with you. And to our Bachelor Happy Hour listeners, thank you for tuning in again. Please make sure to hit us up on social. If you don't know where to find us, we are at Bachelor Happy Hour on Instagram and at Batch Nation Pods on Facebook and Twitter. And as always, please don't forget to subscribe

to our podcast. You can do that on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, the Wondery app, or wherever you are listening to our sweet, sweet voices right now. Thanks, everyone. My boyfriend's professor is way too friendly, and now I'm seriously suspicious. Wait a minute, Sam. Maybe her boyfriend's just looking for extra credit. Well, Dakota, luckily, it's back to school week on the OK Storytime podcast, so we'll find out soon. This person writes, my boyfriend's been hanging out with his young professor a lot. He doesn't think it's a problem, but I don't trust her. Now he's insisting we get to know each other, but I just want her gone.

Hold up. Isn't that against school policy? That seems inappropriate. Maybe. Find out how it ends by listening to the OK Storytime podcast on the IHeart Radio. app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. I'm Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, host of the Psychology Podcast. Here's a clip from an upcoming conversation about how to be a better you. When you think about emotion regulation, you're not going to choose an adaptive strategy which is more effortful to use unless you think there's a good outcome. Avoidance is easier. Ignoring is easier. Denials easier. Complex problem solving.

Takes effort. Listen to the psychology podcast on the iHeart Radio app. Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Why are TSA rules so confusing? You got a hood of you. I'm take it all. I'm Mani. I'm Noah. This is Devin. And we're best friends and journalists with a new podcast called No Such Thing, where we get to the bottom of questions like that.

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