Pretty Problematic with Ali and Alex

Pretty Problematic with Ali and Alex
  • 4.8 (8)
  • Relationships
  • Updated Weekly

Your weekly dose of hot takes, unfiltered opinions, and culture commentary. Alex gets personal about her experiences with marriage, dating, and divorce. Ali and Alex are funny, messy, and brutally honest. Welcome to Pretty Problematic. pproblematic.substack.com

Episodes

  1. 2d ago

    Parental Controls and Surviving the Screen Age

    World Cup Theories, Chris Brown Tour Controversy, and Real Talk on Parenting Ali and Alex celebrate reaching episode 12 of Pretty Problematic, then share hot takes and updates: they discuss the World Cup final matchup between Argentina and Spain, including TikTok conspiracy theories involving Lamine Yamal and claims of rigging. They react to explicit on-stage behavior during the Chris Brown/Usher tour, noting reports a husband filed for divorce after his wife participated, and they cite Chris Brown’s history of violence, arrests, and being banned from Australia. They update that Taylor Frankie Paul was granted a three-year protective order against Crew for stalking, while DCFS is reportedly investigating families with leaked allegations. On the Nolan Wells case, they note no autopsy results yet, a family press conference, grand jury review, and FBI assistance. They then discuss parenting realities: postpartum recovery and sleep deprivation, breastfeeding stigma and costs, managing kids’ screen time with limits and communication, co-parenting and dating boundaries, and letting kids choose clothes over “perfect” outfits. 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

    Parental Controls and Surviving the Screen Age

  2. Jul 15

    Episode 11: Too Many Secrets: Whispers From Horn Island

    World Cup Updates, Utah Courtroom Chaos, and The Nolan Wells Case Hosts Ali and Alex return to Pretty Problematic after Alex's Mexico trip and discuss support Ali received after sharing her story solo. They cover World Cup updates and predictions (France/Spain in semifinals, talk of Norway’s Haaland, and predictions of Spain vs. Argentina). Ali recounts being summoned for jury duty in Utah at the same courthouse as the Charlie Kirk preliminaries and accidentally appearing in widely shared media footage of Erika Kirk amid heavy security. They then discuss ongoing legal drama involving Dakota and Taylor Frankie Paul, including custody issues, Taylor seeking treatment, harassment and alleged stalking, and Dakota’s roommate’s TikTok “exposure” account plus allegations from his ex. They shift to true crime, outlining facts and online theories around missing 18-year-old Nolan Wells, and end with dating advice about a four-day post-date silence and an insecure, passive-aggressive text. Don't miss out on anything Pretty!. Intstagram: @prettyproblematic.ana. TikTok: @prettyproblematic.ana Pretty Problematic is hosted by Ali Askew and Alex Johnson. Instagram: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska. TikTok: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska Please 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

    Episode 11: Too Many Secrets: Whispers From Horn Island

  3. Jul 8

    Episode 10: The Cycle of Grief and Loss

    This week Ali shares her story alone, while Alex is out of the Country. She dives into some Hot Takes including Layla coming out, another spectacle from Dakota and Taylor, and the amazing World record set by Kelsey Pfendler! Then she shares her story of trauma with the loss of her father at the age of 15. She shares how it affected her then and how it still affects her now. She talks about navigating grief and relating to so many others in the process. 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

    Episode 10: The Cycle of Grief and Loss

  4. Jul 1

    Episode 9: Conspiracy 101 and Musical Travesties

    In this Episode Ali and Alex put on their tin foil hats to dive into some popular internet conspiracy theories! They start the show with some hot takes on the possible airing of the Bachelorette (again) and then talk about Miranda's new single " F U For That". They also touch on some Tiktok videos of Jelly Roll going viral in the worst way. The hosts then dive into the Selena Gomez conspiracy theory, Jim Carey, Tupac, and more! Then they end the show with a listeners story about deception and lack of transparency. 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

    Episode 9: Conspiracy 101 and Musical Travesties

  5. Jun 24

    Episode 8: It's a Girl's Night!

    Hosts Ali and Alex return to their usual format for episode eight of Pretty Problematic, framing the night as a weekly “girls’ night” with games and opinions. Their hot take centers on reports that Jelly Roll and wife Bunnie XO are divorcing despite talking publicly about having a baby; they argue she supported and “built” him for 10 years and believe he’s using misaligned religious values as a cop-out. They play several games—“Would You Admit This?” (social media stalking, deleting texts, rereading messages, fake accounts), red flag/green flag (e.g., follows 3,000 girls, talks to ex, splits bills, calls mom daily, cries, no social media), smash/pass (Cheesecake Factory, matching tattoos, couple TikToks, separate bank accounts, long distance, men with podcasts, age gaps), and a Guess Who round (Drake and Taylor Frankie Paul), then a “who’s more likely” paddle game across dating, social, mom, and podcast prompts. A listener story about an engaged woman developing feelings for a coworker prompts them to call it an emotional affair, agree the coworker’s trust concerns are valid, and advise deciding on the engagement independently of the other man and leaving if she isn’t happy. 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

    Episode 8: It's a Girl's Night!

  6. Jun 17

    Episode 7: Through the Male Lens, A Guest Interview

    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 relationships Expectations around gender roles and financial contributions Red flags in early dating and signs of genuine love The relevance of exes, friendships, and social media boundaries The concept of "dating for fun" versus serious commitment How to balance independence while building a partnership Opinions on dating apps and online dating culture How initial attraction and actions signal love The idea of "the one" and finding a partner in a sea of options 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

    Episode 7: Through the Male Lens, A Guest Interview

  7. Jun 10

    Episode 6: Just Two Girls Lost in Translation

    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

    Episode 6: Just Two Girls Lost in Translation

  8. Jun 3

    Episode 5: Dear Ali and Alex...

    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

    Episode 5: Dear Ali and Alex...

  9. May 27

    Episode 4: Tone Deaf and Trending, Influencer Check

    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

    Episode 4: Tone Deaf and Trending, Influencer Check

  10. May 20

    Episode 3: We're Not Ugly, We're Just Broke!

    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 / @alexandramariska Please 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

    Episode 3: We're Not Ugly, We're Just Broke!

  11. May 13

    Episode 2: Dating in 2026, The Bar is Underground

    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 Drama Still nothing to report. Moving on. • Taylor Frankie Paul A 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 / Bieberchella By 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 ever Listener 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

    Episode 2: Dating in 2026, The Bar is Underground

  12. May 6

    Pilot: The Problematic Stories Behind the Pretty Faces

    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 growth Discussion on recent internet drama involving Alex Cooper and Alix Earl, and celebrity beefs like Drake and Kendrick Lamar Exploration of reality TV shows related to Mormon influencers and the false narratives they portray Deep dive into Taylor Frankie Paul’s court case and domestic abuse revelations Personal storytime on marriage, leaving the church, and experiencing manipulation and legal challenges Listener story about complex family entanglements and shocking secrets If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Speak to someone today: call 800-799-7233 Don't miss out on anything Pretty! . Intstagram: @prettyproblematic.ana . TikTok: @prettyproblematic.ana Pretty Problematic is hosted by Ali Askew and Alex Johnson . Instagram: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska . TikTok: @aliblaser / @alexandramariska Please write in your most Problematic stories/ confessions to: . ngl.link/prettyproblematic.ana . Or visit our Instagram and click the link in the Highlighted Story Stay 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

  • 12 Episodes

4.8
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Your weekly dose of hot takes, unfiltered opinions, and culture commentary. Alex gets personal about her experiences with marriage, dating, and divorce. Ali and Alex are funny, messy, and brutally honest. Welcome to Pretty Problematic. pproblematic.substack.com

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