In the latest episode of New Rory & Mal, the podcast duo returned with their signature blend of humor, blunt honesty, and chaotic insight as they took on a listener’s relationship dilemma — a classic case of post-hookup ghosting that spiraled into a wider discussion about dating games, gift-giving, and Valentine’s Day expectations.
The episode kicked off with a listener voicemail from a woman seeking clarity after a disappointing romantic encounter. After talking to a guy for several weeks and finally meeting for a date that led to intimacy, she described feeling emotionally whiplashed the next day when the man’s once affectionate energy suddenly shifted to distant and cold.
The caller questioned whether she’d been manipulated through flattery, and if she had simply been a target of game-playing to get her in bed.
The hosts’ reaction was predictably raw — part compassionate, part comedic. One of the men immediately joked that if she spoke anything like her voicemail in person, it might’ve contributed to the guy’s sudden disappearance. While meant humorously, it set the tone for the candid conversation that followed.
The team acknowledged that, unfortunately, the scenario described by the caller was all too familiar — and likely intentional. They remarked that some men actively morph into the type of person a woman says she’s looking for, only to vanish after the physical part of the relationship is achieved.
The panel agreed this kind of behavior is unfortunately common, while cautioning listeners not to blame themselves or become jaded.
While the caller focused on male manipulation, the conversation broadened to include how women, too, often “run game” in relationships — especially when expensive gifts, like designer bags, are involved. They also emphasized that real connection takes time — and often reveals itself unexpectedly. The conversation eventually veered into Valentine’s Day territory, with the hosts expressing dread over what they called a “performative holiday.”
One male host criticized the logistical nightmare of getting dinner reservations in New York City and how commercial the day has become. He argued that love should be celebrated genuinely — not dictated by calendar pressure.
Demaris, the lone female voice on the episode, pushed back slightly, offering an example of a thoughtful Valentine’s Day spent at home with luxury takeout, heartfelt gifts, and uninterrupted quality time. She emphasized that a relationship can feel special without needing to show it off on Instagram.
Still, the men agreed that many people prioritize the aesthetic of love over the reality, and that dates, gifts, and public displays often become more about optics than connection.
To close out the segment, the hosts roasted the increasingly common gift of custom monogrammed robes. The hosts admitted they owned robes with their names on them — gifts from former partners — that had never been worn.
Another noted that the robe felt too flamboyant to wear at home, comparing it to dressing like Nino Brown just to lounge around.
Despite all the laughter, the episode’s underlying message was clear: modern dating often involves emotional risk, and not everyone plays fair. The hosts advised listeners to protect their hearts, keep their expectations grounded, and most importantly — be real about what they want.
The final advice to the caller? Don’t overthink it, don’t blame yourself, and above all — don’t stop putting yourself out there.
