Judge John Hodgman Shut Your Payhole
Nov 5, 2025
A daughter confronts her dad over his refusal to let her pay for outings, leading to a hilarious family dispute. The father believes in the honor of paying for his own way, even keeping a mental ledger of transactions. Their back-and-forth reveals how this habit impacts their relationship and family dynamics. With a special concert planned for her birthday, the case takes a turn when the judge rules in her favor, all while exploring the emotional nuances of giving and accepting generosity.
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Paying The Check Is A Server Problem
- Servers find it frustrating when multiple diners insist on paying and force staff to arbitrate who pays the check.
- Michael Procopio's essay inspired Judge Hodgman's entry and frames the episode's central etiquette dilemma.
Daughter Brings Dad To Court Over The Check
- Genevieve brought her dad Mike to court because he refuses to let her pay for outings and will mentally ledger any payments.
- This behavior recurs across concerts, gas, meals, and gifts and affects multiple siblings.
Pop Pop At The Convenience Store
- Mike is a retired driver turned part-time convenience store clerk and full-time "Pop Pop" to seven grandchildren.
- He teaches grandchildren to work the register and enjoys being generous in small ways like dropping cash.
