How Taking a Break Saved Our Relationship | Borderline Inappropriate Ep. 01

‪@MerleONeal‬ & ‪@Aria.Inthavong‬ share all the juicy details behind why they decided to take a break three years into their relationship, and how it helped them grow even closer. All this and more on the very first episode of ‪@BorderlineInappropriate‬!
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[@BorderlineInappropriate]

If you want to get EXTRA inappropriate, an ad-free, extended version of this episode, along with bonus behind the scenes content, is available on our Patreon: www.patreon.com/BorderlineInappropriate Either way, thanks so much for watching our first episode, we hope you enjoyed it, and we'll see you next week for episode two! 💙

[@jazzgirlie]

My partner and I went on a break after a year. He was 6 months into his 9 month long studying abroad and it was just not working. We got back together 3 months later but we eased back into things. We didn’t commit monogamously for another 6 months. We’re married now. Been together for over 7 years. Breaks are awkward and sad but sometimes they’re necessary! And I really loved what y’all were saying about relationships being what you want them to be. Marriage commitment was scary to me, but only being beholden to each other helped put the reality of marriage in perspective. Your relationship can be whatever y’all agree it to be.

[@MerleONeal]

WOWWW That's amazing

[@hynnow18]

Thanks for sharing your story ❤

[@MerleONeal]

Thank you all for being here for the first ep!!! We're soo happy and grateful to be able to share with all of ya. Let us know if you've had a similar experience

[@uli11]

This was so amazing! I love the topic and just how real you are. One bit of feedback: I adore Aria... he's so great and I loved what he shared, and i would love to hear more from you, Merle! I feel like I was left wanting to hear more of your thoughts and perspectives.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

I (Aria) agree! More Merle is always great!

[@Ghost-sz7uo]

tell aria to put a ring on it already.

[@michaelchang8776]

i love your podcast merle and aria and i love riverdale and the vamprie diaries and legacies and arrowverse

[@hynnow18]

Thank you for making this channel and covering these topics! I’m not in the habit of listening to podcasts as a terrible audio learner and liking captions when I can’t understand something, yet want to listen to something without needing to look at the screen all the time. This style is perfect!

[@cheer4me1000]

Please add timestamps for the different topics you talk about in future podcasts. I love being able to jump to a specific topic if I want to. Love this so far thought 😊

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Great suggestion, we'll definitely keep that in mind!! Thanks for tuning in.

[@GabrielleRousseau]

I can forgive your horrifying podcast video announcement with this. It was great to see you interact together; the topic was great! Thank you both for your vulnerability! Sending you Montreal hugs!

[@MerleONeal]

hahaha glad we've recovered from the initial shock hehehe

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

hehehe merci as always Gab! Thank you for forgiving us! Always happy to be vulnerable with you all. Hugs back to Montreal!

[@suse9313]

Is it just me, or did Merle seemed happier in the earlier Buzzfeed days? She seems kind of down

[@AlliandoX]

thats what i was saying!! she used to laugh and smile and joke back a lot and flirt and be touchy

[@marisolmonrroy8969]

@@AlliandoX yes I agree, I just watched an older video of them. she use to be more bubbly

[@morales5412]

So good to hear about couples taking breaks and doing therapy together. I love how Aria does a lot of research. Didn't take a break from my relationship but we have been doing couples therapy on and off for a couples of years. I know that sounds sketch, but it's not! The first time we went into therapy was to strengthen our communication, the second time was to work on our teamwork. I am always so curious to see how other people navigate/juggle being in a relationship, work, growing your family, and all the life pressures because I did not have a healthy example. I dont know the basic structure of what's acceptable and not. Keep the episodes coming :)

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with therapy! Definitely not sketch at all to go on and off of it - sometimes you need it, sometimes you don't, and I'm sure by now you know when it's time for some or not! I think many of us were never taught that basic structure of what a relationship is, so I'm glad we can have this podcast and community to talk through all these things together. Thanks again for watching, and I'm excited to share the next episode soon!!

[@dominikawiciak3867]

You're both lovely people, but honestly from the outside it just looks like trying to talk yourself into something that's not necessarily there. You were reluctant from the start and you're still are, trying to convince yourself that emotional support and great vibes are enough to make the relationship work when something is clearly lacking. I hope I'm wrong and I wish you both the best, you wisely talk about how communication and being honest with each other is important, but similarly important in relationship is being honest with yourself and your motives.

[@AlliandoX]

agreed, merle to me feels kind of resentful and miserable this episode? I guess in the buzzfeed videos she was more smiley and cheerful. Hope she feels better

[@nicktheavatar_]

“That’s another episode” counter: 10 😂 love watching your dynamic with Aria! It’s so natural and casual and entertaining. Love the taboo talk and side tangents! Keep it up!!

[@kaleidoscopic_star]

My heart dropped when you guys brought the "break" talk - it really is a difficult topic and definitely a trigger 💔😭 But loved both your insights on society's standards of idealized relationships and breaks with good communication💜I'm so glad you guys are talking more about couples therapy and more - so exited for this podcast!!!

[@MerleONeal]

Thank you for listening and for sharing we appreciate you

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you so much for always being so supportive, both here and in past content too! It's a difficult topic and sorry if it triggered you or anyone else! But hopefully having convos like this can be helpful for many others! We're excited that you're excited, and we look forward to sharing the next episode!!

[@samiam74]

Any chance to get more Merle is always a win in my world. Bonus points for Aria and for interesting topics in a safe space. Congratulations on this podcast you two!!! I look forward to many more.

[@MerleONeal]

You're too kind

[@samiam74]

@@MerleONeal nah, just honest....and Canadian. Sorry. lol

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

I agree, I always think more Merle in the world is always a good thing! Thanks for the kind words about me (Aria) too! Appreciate you watching and commenting. Looking forward to sharing more with you very soon!!

[@SquirelGirlrocks]

I also agree taking breaks is good and dont listen to the internet when people say that taking a break will eventually lead to officially breaking up.

[@illy_6]

You guys are funny - a two week break 😂 and you spoke in between. Basically just a vacation. There’s clearly so much love between you two - it’s totally fine taking space for yourself from the relationship sometimes. A break in my view is something quite different

[@backtalk9343]

Her attitude seems off here. Like she doesn’t wanna be there

[@StatusQuonald]

Listening to this was a trip. Had kind of a rough day, so my initial reaction was fear and doubt about my own situation. As the story unfolded it gave me insight and confidence. Thanks for the honesty and the fun podcast.

[@MerleONeal]

This makes me so so happy

[@rishirajsinha7963]

I did watch your relationship video in 2019. Here I’m now, listening to the podcast. Best wishes

[@MerleONeal]

bless ya

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Wow wow wow! Thank you so much for being with us since the beginning! So glad you're still with us, and we're excited to go on this podcast adventure with you!!

[@JohnDoe-pg9oq]

Thank you guys so much for sharing! This topic needs to be discussed more. I also took a break in my relationship for about a week and a half (we sent good morning/night texts but that was all the contact we had). It was the best thing that we could have ever done. We both loved each other and knew we wanted to be together but there were external factors (such as my mom dying) that were negatively affecting the relationship and sadly it was heading in a bad direction and I don’t doubt for a second that it could have ended in a breakup. It was only 6 months into our relationship but the break allowed each of us to better ourselves and solidified the importance of wanting to be together and the love we had for each other. Not to sound too dramatic but the break was transformational and we’re happily married 5 years later. We’ve overcome a lot and are still growing as a couple. :)

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your own personal experience with this very detailed comment! We definitely agree that it needs to be discussed more. Funny that you took pretty much the same amount of time in your break that we did! So glad to hear that the break worked out so splendidly for you both though - this is the type of story we hope will inspire other couples considering a break to potentially take the plunge themselves. It's a scary thing to do, but there's definitely lots of potential good to come from it, as you've proven! Thanks again for watching and sharing!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

You're awesome! Thanks for tuning in and we're excited to be sharing more episodes soon!

[@JohnDoe-pg9oq]

Thank you to both of you! Love the podcast and excited for future videos! :)

[@za_ck]

Hes so in love with her and shes so not interested in him she admitted that she regrets dating him before hooking up and now shes just dating him well just because theres no reason theres no love i knew and felt it since they were in buzzfeed

[@milesbon1]

Can confirm Aria dumps bodies off the pier, i have been trying to expose him for years - love the show!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Also, thanks for listening, podcast king!!!

[@CorineT]

Just wanted to say, fresh from the news of Matthew Perry passing, the clip of Ross and Rachel killed me, both in a funny and sad way 🤧😂 Thank you for the openness and vulnerability! Some 2-3 years ago when I first started watching Merle’s videos on exploring things related to sex, I remember feeling like “Gosh I can relate to her,” and used the videos to educate my now husband. Have been a supporter ever since - will probably continue to be ❤

[@CorineT]

Also please, why is the “Are you stupid?” comment so relatable 😂😂 especially with Aria insisting on the herpes.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Merle was so genuinely baffled by the herpes insistence hahaha! Thanks for continuing to watch content with Merle for several years - we'll be covering some taboo convos around sex in the future for sure! Also, yes, the Matthew Perry passing did make the Friends clip hit different for us in the edit too :( Thanks for watching, Corine!

[@PlanetAscensionTV]

I loved this, thanks for choosing to share your beautiful truths and vulnerabilities and relationship with the world. Super refreshing & the ironic part of the title of this is that making it normal to have these kinds of talks, is kind of the most sane and needed thing in the world right now. Excited for more to come :) PS: Signed up for Patreon (for the first time in my Millennial adult life!)

[@MerleONeal]

WOWW Thank you so SO very much

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you so much for signing up for the Patreon! It's already great having you in the Discord server - excited to dive into your suggestions and for all the future convos we'll be having as a community on both the Discord and the podcast!

[@cassynedelisky796]

The story of your break was actually so wholesome.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Great seeing you here, Cassy! Thank you for watching and for being here! Glad you found it wholesome - it definitely came with a happy ending and we're happy with how we handled things!

[@cassynedelisky796]

@@BorderlineInappropriate of course! I’m a big fan of the two of you individually and as a couple. I love this podcast, even if your announcement gave me a mild heart attack.

[@utooba24]

My partner and I took a break, but it was different and was tailored to our needs at the time. It went for about 6 months and our main rules were: we could still contact each other though not talking as frequently as when we weren't on a break, we had said we would refrain from being intimate with each other (though we broke that rule a few times), and we were allowed to hook up outside of the relationship. The break also preceded us living together and happened after a plan to move in together fell through. I don't think either of us could have gone no-contact, we weren't ready for that even though some friends were pressuring us to (because they insisted that no-contact and no intimacy was essential for a break). We just did what felt right for us and we communicated a lot beforehand about what we wanted and what boundaries would be in place. We didn't do it because either of us felt like we were losing ourselves in the relationship, but instead to figure out where our relationship was heading and what we each really wanted, because we had gotten together quite young. We didn't avoid telling (most) people that we were on a break, but we didn't advertise it either. It was really helpful and productive, the main thing I learned from it was that I had to accept my partner and stop imposing the high standards I had internalised from my culture on him. The break led us to open our relationship for roughly a year and a half, which was also very helpful. We didn't have a couples therapist so we had to be extra vigilant about communicating well. That all happened 8-10 years ago and we're still going strong. I think a break can be great for a relationship if you do it for the right reasons and set clear boundaries and goals beforehand.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Wow wow wow, thank you so much for opening up and sharing such a detailed breakdown of your experience taking a break, it's much appreciated, and I'm sure it'll help others here in the comments too that may be facing similar questions! You both seemed to had done a really great job about communicating your boundaries, especially without a therapist, and we're so glad to hear that you're still going strong! Another great example of a break going well!

[@utooba24]

Thank you, I think your podcast is off to a great start and it was so interesting to hear from you both about your break, and compare it to my own experience. And I'm all about normalising things like breaks! With social media and celebrity culture these days, relationships tend to be thought of in such an idealised and rigid way. But they are unique to each combination of people, and can be whatever you want them to be, not just what is expected of you. Glad my story interests you, and hopefully it helps other people feel less afraid of taking similar steps to improve their relationships too!

[@yeekadenisechan3000]

Lovely first episode and thank you for being open to sharing this difficult topic. Changed my perspective on breaks and can’t wait for the next episode!

[@gilbertjacobs3705]

When I was younger I wished there was more of a conversation around taking a break to find yourself again. taking a step back from relationships can help rediscover your love.

[@MerleONeal]

thisssss

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Agreed! It's definitely a shame that a lot of important convos such as this one, or talks around the benefits of therapy, are only a somewhat recent development - there's still a lot of work to be done though!

[@ViCT0RiA6]

youre my favourite person merle genuinely. and aria is great, you guys communicate about things most people wouldnt even be self aware enough to think about. loving the podcast already from the jump

[@effie9529]

I genuinely loved hearing this from start to finish. There's so much insight into how a break can be beneficial and I appreciate the positive sides that you two brought up from it. It definitely helped me think about some things happening in my life and it was quite helpful! Thank you!!

[@swagatamghosh94]

Many congratulations to you guys for this! I am sure people will really love this and this will be just another stepping stone for more and more success for you guys.

[@MerleONeal]

thank you so much

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Ahh bless you for your kind words! We're excited to be able to share in this podcast experience with you and all these other lovely people. Thank you for being here and for commenting!

[@stephaniemckeegan5447]

I loved your honesty and vulnerability in this first episode! I have gone through breaks that led into break ups and you are right it is what the couple makes of it. You both have to be on the same page which I am glad you and Aria were! I am very happy that you decided to stay together though! While no relationship is perfect yours is one of the healthiest, I have seen on the internet!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you Stephanie! Thanks for being here and for your kind words. Always happy to try and be honest and vulnerable with you all. And like you said, no relationship is perfect, but we can all strive to keep them as healthy as possible! I'm glad you think ours is! Our therapist will be happy to hear that haha.

[@BetaniaCosmos]

Thank you so much for sharing this with us ❤ I love the way you guys handle your relationship. Big hugs and I will keep watching every episodes!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank YOU so much for being here with us and for watching future episodes! Big hugs to you too!

[@blackblue2244]

Relationship still not saved at this point.. guy seems clueless, girl has a lack of respect for him. Hope it can be saved, needs more than just a break for sure..

[@ryanhayes92]

My now fiancee and I actually took a break after covid. It honestly helped us a ton. Nice to see this get normalized. I honestly didn't think we were going make it based on what I saw online

[@strangersontheinternet]

I love this!!! Can’t wait for more! I‘m totally on board with you taking (healthy) breaks ❤ Besides being hypersensitive I also had an anxiety disorder since I was a kid and for me that means I need regular breaks in a relationship where I need time to myself. I did struggle with that in my younger years, since not everyone understands that but with my current s/o I‘m having really good communication and he knows I still love him even if I we don’t see each other for like a week or two :)

[@MerleONeal]

That's incredible that you have found soomeone you can be honest and open with that understands your needs! Thanks so much for listening

[@ciaramitsukonishi]

i LOVE this podcast even after 1 episode. i’ve followed you both since buzzfeed days & i will follow you wherever you go 💜

[@oceanwonders]

Thank you so much for your willingness to be vulnerable in such an open format (open for the internet to criticize!). It def makes people feel less alone, and I think you're being the change you wish to see.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you so much

[@smome7773]

I was hoping you guys would make content like thisss. As someone whose kinda getting more into "fringe/alt" relationship structures (open, solo poly, ENM, etc), I somehow imagined this. (Also not assuming thats what y'all have going on 😅😏) Anyway congrats y'all!! I love this ❤

[@vinniedecapriovevo8667]

Hello my friends! Aria, Merle I have missed talking to both of you because of how busy I have been lately! However, I will say you guys seem to be doing very well, and I am very happy for both of you. TBH I think I am speaking for everyone saying I shipped ya'll from the start now u guys have had a great 4 year so far relationship, & I am glad you took that time to mend things between you! I love you guys, and the advice you guys gave, and I will use this before getting into my next relationship! I would love to talk on the podcast with you guys if you ever have guests if you ever has a special episode (probably from Zoom) because I have some stories for you guys! I pray you guys get married, and have a beautiful family eventually as well! Much love, & God Bless, Vinnie!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you for all your support these past few years Vinnie! Great to see you here, and we appreciate you taking the time to share all these super kind words. We hope our advice can help you in your future relationships and we're excited to continue having convos with you and the community as this podcast grows!! Thanks again for popping by!

[@yannaislit3322]

I loved this. You guys are so emotionally intelligent and unafraid of the truth. I learned a lot and also laughed a lot. This was perfection. ⭐️

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you for the love. So glad you liked it

[@BrookeYoder]

I had a break once that ended in a divorce. But he was definitely just trying to soften the blow for me (which really did the opposite). That was a whole chapter closed and I'd thought I'd never speak to or see him again. That was true for about 9 years and then we did end up speaking and now are the friends that it seemed we were always meant to be :)

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Wow this is so powerful. Thank you so much for sharing

[@watersk2013]

As someone who does have HSV-1 (oral herpes), they are 100% different from canker sores. Cold sores are external while canker sores are internal. I've gotten a cold sore and a canker sore at the same time and oof, 10/10 would NOT recommend.

[@MerleONeal]

THANK YOU

[@ravenna2165]

Really interesting topic and loved the vulnerability! I just want to share that I really would've appreciated hearing more of Merle and her thoughts/opiniong with more nuance. There is nothing wrong with sharing your experience withp detail, but since the podcast is for both of you, a healthier balance between talking time would be great! I myself have considered a break in my 9 year relationship, but have found that focusing on filling my own cup and making time for me in the relationship has eased a lot if not ALL the suffocation I felt before. Turns out I just wasn't pouring attention into myself and allowing myself to get to know myself and grow individually. As long as you have support and a good partner you're set! Therapy helps too :) best of luck to you guys!

[@LivT04]

Yay🎉 I’m so excited that your first podcast episode fell into my recommended feed, the way the beginning of your relationship fell into my feed all those years ago when you were both on buzz feed! Congratulations Merlia ❤on the break and podcast 🙏🏼

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

We’re so happy you found us!

[@shelbylynlowe]

With the canker sore conversation, I think Aria likes to bring up things that obviously annoy you haha. My partner is like that. I understand how that feels haha.

[@ronomgenuff]

I need more Merle singing on this podcast, pleaseee

[@MerleONeal]

hehehehee that can be arranged

[@tacosruletheskool]

this was such an honest and much take on couples therapy - and such a joy to see your two personalities in the same space again. already here for the next episode!! 👀

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you so much for listening and for taking the time to comment! We can't advocate enough for therapy - both individual and couples! And we're so glad that you enjoy seeing us together. Thanks again, and we're excited to have you already around for the next ep!

[@TheNate568dogg]

Baking soda for canker sores! Look it up, changed my life. Loved this. You guys are great 🧡

[@MerleONeal]

THANK YOU

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Oooh that's a hot tip for canker sores, good to know! Assuming they're actually canker sores that Merle has... 🧐🧐🧐

[@nataliecain7019]

I absolutely love this! Looking forward to more podcasts with even riskier topics 😊 ❤

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thanks so much, Natalie! Next week's one definitely gets further taboo 😈 Thanks for tuning in and commenting!

[@ofthenearfuture]

This is awesome, can't wait for more pods!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

You're awesome! Thanks so much for tuning in, and we can't wait to share more episodes with you too!

[@firmanchristiansianturi4794]

I thoroughly enjoyed the episode. Great job, guys.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

And we thoroughly enjoy reading lovely comments like yours! Thanks for watching and commenting! Also, as a wrestling fan, I appreciate your profile pic!

[@user-ue3gs8ji3h]

What a treat! Will definitely be tuning in again.

[@hibanizami]

Such a healthy break… like it really led yall to realise u can’t in a way live without each other or without talking to each other

[@smome7773]

Is this sarcasm? Sorry for asking, i just cant tell lol

[@mexicannotfrench7908]

Ahhh!! i've been so excited for this all last week!!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Ahhh I hope it was worth the wait!!

[@nikkita113]

I loved how they both just spoke their minds with such vulnerability!

[@grayceseeto]

Hey merle and aria! Here to support, Can’t wait for more episodes :)

[@MerleONeal]

Thank you!!!!!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Hey Grayce!! Thanks for supporting by watching and leaving this comment, it means a lot!

[@AlliandoX]

interesting, glad it worked out for you guys, hope the couples therapy will iron out things with moving in together/counting score etc!

[@megan55121]

This was so fun and interesting! Can’t wait for more episodes!

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Omg I didn’t even know y’all had a podcast! Congratulations and good luck 👏🏽

[@michaelrichardson484]

Merle you’re correct! “ Aphthous stomatitis Stomatitis characterized by the repeated formation of benign and non-contagious mouth ulcers”

[@Shaphireazula]

Thank you guys! This was insightful and well-presented. I love you, can't wait for the open relationships episode!

[@monicatoro2286]

Merle, I'm feeling exactly the same as you, like I'm losing myself and I have no individuality anymore; but my boyfriend hates the idea of a break.

[@jezzabear8531]

Like Aria, I went on a break after being with my BF (at the time) of 2 years because he felt as though he wasn’t “experiencing” life fully. We set a lot of boundaries and rules for each other, signed it like a contract, aaaaaand he ended up breaking the agreement in multiple ways, didn’t want to own up or correct things, and it took me 6 more months of suffering to break it off 😅

[@RondyWooten]

Wow, I was just thinking about both of you recently! This is really great to see!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

You manifested this 👀

[@nataliegordon3132]

Just listened to this on Spotify for my walk today. I too feel in love with you guys individually on Buzzfeed and was obsessed with your love story. Loved the episode and just subscribed. Looking forward to more episodes. And as an Internal Medicine doctor I can say that canker sores and cold sores are completely different 😂 cold sores occur from herpesvirus and can recurr in different frequencies most commonly during periods of stress. You can pass them to people you kiss. Canker sores are also very common, not caused by virus and are not contagious

[@uo9979]

We still care, you guys! Really happy with the podcast ❤

[@YoYo-bx8wu]

Aria sounds like Aria.. Merle on the other hand has grown into this wise woman who has an ocean for knowledge.. What a f*cking bliss it was watching them for all these years.. ❤

[@toml.461]

Really enjoyed this. Looking forward for more.

[@MerleONeal]

Thank you!!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you so much! We're looking forward to sharing more with you!!

[@nappsandnurture]

Great episode 😊. Tuning in !

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

thank you!! Glad ya liked it

[@user-vc5rp7nf8f]

camera cuts are way too fast. just have one cam with the both of you in it

[@Nikki-rx8ri]

This was a very interesting first episode and I'm absolutely stoked! Can't wait to hear what else you guys have in store for us.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

We love you, Nikki!!

[@chibimena]

i loved this episode but especially the end bit im crying hahaha excited for more ❤😊

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Aww yay! So glad you liked it - sorry it made you cry though, haha! More to come next week!

[@dazzlinggene]

This was such a great first episode 👏😊

[@SteffanyStrange]

Great episode you guys!

[@MerleONeal]

Thank you so much!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Ahhh Steffany, sorry, just seeing your comment now! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment!! Happy Belated Halloween!!!

[@karlafeeley8703]

Anyone else remember the video where Merle made the vegan egg yolk and then Aria knew exactly what it was and flirted with Merle just like their coworker said would happen!

[@falalalalaa]

Sorry but this is cringey. She seems avoidant and like she is being forced to be in this relationship against her will. How many times can you say you're upset you didn't get to go sleep with other people? If you want to be single, go be single. Don't drag someone else along who just wants to be in a loving relationship. This seems toxic. And that's not because "the wolves will descend" and poke holes in your relationship the second you mention therapy or taking a break. That's watching this interaction and listening to how she talks about it.

[@JuiceGuruInstitute]

I loved it and can’t wait for me. Great job ! What mics are you using ? The sound is really good too.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

So glad you enjoyed it, thanks for listening! We're using the Shure SM7B!

[@patriannaanderson8683]

Loved this.

[@mlougrowden6152]

You too, are so young but wise. I have never seen a cuter couple ever. I have a strong feeling that you guys are going to be committed to each other for a very, very, very, very long time. U2 are very cute together.

[@serrgggeo]

Aria, lol, you don't have to explain, we hear what Merle is saying. So much context, so many words!

[@boltup5566]

Did you guys already move in together? Any thoughts on vlogging the process? I feel like people move in faster in LA because rent is so crazy.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

We did already move in together! Unfortunately we didn't vlog too much of the process but more of the apartment will be showing up in Merle's vlogs/videos on her channel since it's pretty much complete now! I completely agree about people moving in faster in LA though because of the rent - probably another reason why I (Aria) was keen on moving in, which is not a great reason at the end of the day (so it's good we waited until we were actually ready).

[@RayaKovacheva]

How does this land right when I'm thinking about it... thanks guys. Agh, just hard to do it when we have lived together for 3 years+ and are actually married. Then families are very involved too and one person in the relationship is not so keen on a break. Any advice anyone?🙃

[@cheer4me1000]

Be honest with them and yourself. Its the best thing. If they love you they’ll understand

[@smome7773]

Maybe broach it with a couple's therapist or some kind of mediator so that they can hear ot from someone other than you. I would start there and then agree on your small chosen group who won't be judgemental so they can support you during that time.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

I'm sorry it's landed with you at this time, but we hope that sharing our experience can help provide you with clarity ahead of the decision you're making! While Merle and I (Aria) told our families about the break, ultimately it's our decision, and the same can be said for you - as much as it's helpful to get perspectives from family members, you should go with what your gut is saying. And if one person in the relationship isn't as keen, then it's definitely an honest conversation you should have with them - if it's something you feel needs to happen then communicate that it's potentially either the break or, if not, it could even lead to a break up. It's a tough conversation to have, and we admire you for being able to recognize that it's something you might need to do! Keep us posted, we're here for you!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Agreed with you @cheer4me1000 !

[@ehoneunsilencedvoice4235]

You two are too cute! :) Happy Belated Birthday, Merle! This was a very informative podcast and I look forward to the next one.

[@MerleONeal]

Thank you so much!!

[@umfairy4079]

I still care!!! Watched you from the beginning! (I will admit i only rediscovered you guys a few months ago.. hahahah) but i was OBSESSED with you guys! (still am😚) and merle, as a lesbian, i am in love with you.

[@MerleONeal]

I'm blushing

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you for still caring!! We're so glad you're still here, even if you only just rediscovered us (to be fair, we also disappeared from content together for a long time!). And I definitely get being in love with Merle, she's a beauty!!

[@msswart9119]

I can't believe I only discovered your podcast today?!? Been a fan of both of you for years, subscribed to your channels, so I don't know how I missed this. Really loving the choice of topics, will def be catching up on all the episodes I've missed ❤❤❤

[@sofia_palmeiro]

thank you for this vulnerability about your experience!!!!!

[@justin_g_smith]

We stan the open and honest communication!

[@haru9369]

scrolled the comments section for your therapist's comment 😆 but couldnt see it

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Hahaha, no comment from her here yet, but she did text us to tell us she loved it!

[@mytripinlove867]

I love the conversation about taking a break. I did this with my partner and I felt ashamed and didn't want to tell people. When I finally said it, I was proud of myself for standing up for myself and doing what we knew was best for our relationship. I needed to refocus on myself and he needed to find himself again.

[@megano9598]

Honestly this is one of the best first episode of a podcast I’ve seen. Great topic as well!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

You’re so kind!! So glad you like it, we’re excited for more to come!

[@tiffanylewis5416]

We need to redifine what a "relationship" is.. if it was to involve multiple people it would have a more complex name. Idk.. if you EVER have the thought of feeling to involve more people then that needs to be clear from the get go... and if you have a thought on relationships being more intimate this podcast makes you feel as if you should feel otherwise. Good for them for being this open, and I love her channel, but I feel this mostly how she feels, noting how she keeps kind of correcting him, in his own thoughts and words, (when she feels he's not saying things correctly) . He is very constructive in his communication to us, she just jabs her opinions and thoughts where she feels fit. He may be "comfortable " with how she feels, bir have we thought of maybe he feels he needs her??

[@anangrylittlesliceofpie1413]

happy anniversary to you two I guess!

[@DocVancouver]

😊Thanks again for sharing both of your stories. This is amazing. Much Love ❤️

[@Bladblazer420]

Yassss loved it ❤

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

And we love that you loved it! Thanks for being here!!

[@xxAlexixx88]

Cold sores and canker sores are different, Merle is right

[@QueenMaggieYoga]

I'm glad you 2 have this podcast!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

We are too 🥰

[@amijoon3770]

Just found Merle a couple days ago and fell in love with her. Super cool chick and so I figured Arial(spelling correct?) would be cool too. She’s fun so I figured their podcast is going to be interesting and fun. Plus I’m all about Inappropriate!!! ❤❤❤

[@alexbin77]

From the Mayo clinic: Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums. They are not contagious and usually go away on their own in a week or two 1. However, if you have unusually large or painful canker sores or canker sores that don’t seem to heal, it’s best to check with your doctor or dentist 1. The precise cause of canker sores remains unclear, though researchers suspect that a combination of factors contributes to outbreaks, even in the same person. Possible triggers for canker sores include 1: A minor injury to your mouth from dental work, overzealous brushing, sports mishaps or an accidental cheek bite Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing sodium lauryl sulfate Food sensitivities, particularly to chocolate, coffee, strawberries, eggs, nuts, cheese and spicy or acidic foods A diet lacking in vitamin B-12, zinc, folate (folic acid) or iron An allergic response to certain bacteria in your mouth Helicobacter pylori, the same bacteria that cause peptic ulcers Hormonal shifts during menstruation Emotional stress Certain underlying health conditions may also cause canker sores. These include 1: Celiac disease Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis Behcet’s disease If you experience unusually large canker sores, recurring sores with new ones developing before old ones heal or frequent outbreaks, persistent sores lasting two weeks or more, sores that extend into the lips themselves (vermilion border), pain that you can’t control with self-care measures or extreme difficulty eating or drinking, it’s best to consult your doctor 1.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Sending this to Merle!! Thank you!

[@bennydictusest]

44:31 Is Merle from Boston? New York? Connecticut? New England? Accent's coming out. And it suits her better than the SoCal accent she's been trying to have when she was with Buzzfeed.

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Merle is from MA!

[@bennydictusest]

@@BorderlineInappropriate Oh new England represent!

[@KATSEYEILLIT3]

Subscribed!

[@MerleONeal]

Thank you!

[@BorderlineInappropriate]

Thank you so much for watching, subscribing and commenting!! We really appreciate it!

[@ScenariosOfDrea]

Please do a couples therapy episode

[@serrgggeo]

I love Aria but he doesn't breathe when he talks, like it's a LOT. Merle's facial expressions and body language seem detached. Aria seems like such an attentive person, in some ways, but anxious? Hmm...

[@LJK9]

I completely agree.