Pretty Problematic with Ali and Alex

In this episode, we explore the perspectives of a male listener, T, on dating, social media's impact on relationships, and love. Join us for honest insights into modern dating norms, red flags, and building meaningful connections.Key Topics:The impact of social media on trust and insecurities in relationshipsExpectations around gender roles and financial contributionsRed flags in early dating and signs of genuine loveThe relevance of exes, friendships, and social media boundariesThe concept of "dating for fun" versus serious commitmentHow to balance independence while building a partnershipOpinions on dating apps and online dating cultureHow initial attraction and actions signal loveThe idea of "the one" and finding a partner in a sea of optionsDon't miss out on anything Pretty!. Instagram: @prettyproblematic.ana. TikTok: @prettyproblematic.anaPretty Problematic is hosted by Ali Askew and Alex Johnson. Instagram: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska. TikTok: @aliblaser / @alexandramariskaPlease write in your most Problematic stories/ confessions to:. ngl.link/prettyproblematic.ana. Or visit our Instagram and click the link in the Highlighted Story This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pproblematic.substack.com

Ali and Alex focus in on their Mormon mission experiences in Chile after briefly discussing concerns about celebrities’ extreme weight loss, including Ariana Grande on her tour and other actresses. They describe culture shock at the Mexico City MTC, language immersion, tough living conditions (propane for hot water, limited money for food, washing clothes by hand), and highly strict mission rules with minimal communication. They explain being punished near the end for taking photos with elders during a trip to San Pedro, which led to being barred from the temple and separated from the group. Ali shares meeting Pituca y Lucas cast members on P-day. They also recount major Chilean events during their mission: deadly floods, an 8.3 magnitude earthquake with tsunami warnings, and Copa America celebrations. The episode ends with a follow-up listener update about kissing a best friend and advice on a situationship conflict involving a guy’s friend.Don't miss out on anything Pretty!. Intstagram: @prettyproblematic.ana. TikTok: @prettyproblematic.anaPretty Problematic is hosted by Ali Askew and Alex Johnson. Instagram: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska. TikTok: @aliblaser / @alexandramariskaPlease write in your most Problematic stories/ confessions to:. ngl.link/prettyproblematic.ana. Or visit our Instagram and click the link in the Highlighted Story This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pproblematic.substack.com

Ali and Alex record episode five of “Pretty Problematic” after multiple tech and scheduling issues, with Alex returning from a Wyoming reunion, illness in the household, and Ali’s son recovering from surgery. They discuss getting online hate after a TikTok criticizing Drake, responding to comments about their looks, intelligence, and cheap podcast equipment, and reframing the podcast as exposing behaviors rather than people. Their hot takes include Khloé Kardashian hosting ex Tristan Thompson on her podcast, Khloé promoting Weight Watchers, and concerns about peptides and DIY Botox. After fixing spam from their anonymous NGL link, they do a Q&A: exploring same-sex attraction after a breakup, finding hope for love after divorce, Mormon “NCMO” culture, not returning to an inconsistent ex, and not dating someone you’re not attracted to. They end with a listener story about suspected cheating at a café and advise trusting your gut and leaving. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pproblematic.substack.com

Ali and Alex return for episode 4, catching up after a hectic week involving family visits, Ali’s son’s surgery, and Alex’s last week at her job. They discuss how social media numbers create an illusion that’s hard to comprehend and segue into “hot takes,” criticizing James Charles for attacking a former Spirit Airlines employee who asked him to promote her GoFundMe, then posting an apology two weeks later. They also debate Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar, outlining the “big three” (Drake, J. Cole, Kendrick), diss-track history, Drake’s controversial defamation lawsuit, and Ali’s view that Drake’s new albums are “garbage.” They briefly note a Whitney “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” Weight Watchers ad and reflect on influencers being out of touch with today’s economy.Alex shares relationship trauma after divorce, then they read two listener stories: a terrifying date that escalates into stalking and restraining order, and a situationship exposing a man’s secret live-in girlfriend and baby, advising the listener to tell the girlfriend.Don't miss out on anything Pretty!Instagram: @prettyproblematic.ana.TikTok: @prettyproblematic.anaPretty Problematic is hosted by Ali Askew and Alex Johnson. Instagram: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska.TikTok: @aliblaser / @alexandramariskaPlease write in your most Problematic stories/ confessions to:. ngl.link/prettyproblematic.ana.Or visit our Instagram and click the link in the Highlighted Story This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pproblematic.substack.com

Is Self-Care Turning Into Self-Destruction?In this episode, we talk about the dark side of wellness culture, beauty standards, toxic diet trends, Botox, Ozempic, postpartum body pressure, and whether modern “self-care” is actually becoming self-destruction. We also discuss friendship dynamics during toxic relationships and the pressure women face online to look perfect.Disclaimer:This episode is for entertainment and discussion purposes only. We are not medical professionals, and nothing shared should be taken as medical advice.Don't miss out on anything Pretty! Instagram: @prettyproblematic.ana. TikTok: @prettyproblematic.ana Pretty Problematic is hosted by Ali Askew and Alex Johnson. Instagram: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska. TikTok: @aliblaser / @alexandramariskaPlease write in your most Problematic stories/ confessions to:. ngl.link/prettyproblematic.ana. Or visit our Instagram and click the link in the Highlighted Story This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pproblematic.substack.com

This week’s episode dives deep into modern dating culture, divorce trauma, healing after toxic relationships, Mormon dating culture, and the terrifying reality of dating apps in 2026.Hot Takes of the Week• Alix & Alex DramaStill nothing to report. Moving on.• Taylor Frankie PaulA judge granted more parenting time through June. Bachelorette air date rumors are swirling — the hosts are rooting hard for it and call out the double standard: men with serious charges keep their platforms while a fully filmed season may get shelved over a woman's past.• Jessi Draper (SLOMW)A TMZ voicemail clip sparked online criticism, but the hosts defend Jessi — she was likely protecting herself, her brand, and her livelihood. She's a boss with a G-Wagon. Enough said.• Justin Bieber / BieberchellaBy early May 2026, Justin officially surpassed 141M monthly Spotify listeners — the most in the world. The hosts,cborn the same year as Justin, reflect on seeing him second-row at his 2022 tour (emotionally distant, clearly in a dark place) versus the lit-up version at Bieberchella. They're already plotting to sell everything to get first-row tickets next tour.Topics We Cover:• Divorce, custody battles & emotional healing• “Are We Dating the Same Guy?” Facebook groups• Love bombing vs healthy relationships• Why healthy relationships can feel “boring” after chaos• Mormon mission culture & getting married young• Listener dating horror stories• Modern dating standards feeling lower than everListener Story #1:A heartbreaking story about a six-year marriage collapsing after years of emotional disconnection, therapy, depression, and identity struggles. We discuss sexuality, shame, religion, emotional projection, and the complicated reality that heartbreak can exist on both sides.Listener Story #2:A dating app nightmare involving fake names, overlapping relationships, secret identities, and the terrifying realization that someone you trusted may not actually be who they claim to be.Coming Next Week:We’re diving into wellness culture, body image, beauty standards, wellness trends, and the problematic side of the health industry.Don't miss out on anything Pretty!. Intstagram: @prettyproblematic.ana. TikTok: @prettyproblematic.anaPretty Problematic is hosted by Ali Askew and Alex Johnson. Instagram: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska. TikTok: @aliblaser / @alexandramariskaPlease write in your most Problematic stories/ confessions to:. ngl.link/prettyproblematic.ana. Or visit our Instagram and click the link in the Highlighted Story This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pproblematic.substack.com

Join Ali and Alex in their debut episode as they introduce themselves and share their journeys from LDS missions to navigating life’s ups and downs. This episode sets the tone for a raw, open discussion on personal stories, internet drama, and the realities behind influencer culture.In this episode:Both hosts share their backgrounds, including experiences with faith, marriage, and personal growthDiscussion on recent internet drama involving Alex Cooper and Alix Earl, and celebrity beefs like Drake and Kendrick LamarExploration of reality TV shows related to Mormon influencers and the false narratives they portrayDeep dive into Taylor Frankie Paul’s court case and domestic abuse revelationsPersonal storytime on marriage, leaving the church, and experiencing manipulation and legal challengesListener story about complex family entanglements and shocking secretsIf you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Speak to someone today: call 800-799-7233Don't miss out on anything Pretty!. Intstagram: @prettyproblematic.ana. TikTok: @prettyproblematic.anaPretty Problematic is hosted by Ali Askew and Alex Johnson. Instagram: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska. TikTok: @aliblaser / @alexandramariskaPlease write in your most Problematic stories/ confessions to:. ngl.link/prettyproblematic.ana. Or visit our Instagram and click the link in the Highlighted StoryStay tuned for next week’s episode, where they’ll continue sharing personal stories and exploring the dating scene in 2026 Thanks for listening to Pretty Problematic with Ali and Alex — real talk, no filters. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit pproblematic.substack.com