
Friends Without Benefits
One woman. One man. Thirty plus years of strictly platonic friendship with ZERO romantic history between them.This is Friends Without Benefits.Rachel Sobel is the face behind the popular blog and Instagram account, Whine and Cheez-its. She is the mother of two, a do-over wife, and award-winning writer, author and speaker.Dale McLean is a South Florida entertainment staple affectionately known as Uptown Dale. He is a bachelor, owner of a successful entertainment company, television personality and in-arena host for the Miami Heat.Together they tackle a range of topics around relationships, dating and current events, all with a banter that has been brewed to perfection for decades.Follow Rachel at www.instagram.com/whineandcheezitsFollow Dale at www.instagram.com/uptowndale
Latest episodes

Apr 2, 2024 • 39min
S2 Ep. 8: Opulent Estates, Age Gap Relationships and Biscoff Cookie Obsessions
Have you ever been mistaken for a celebrity? Well, we spark a hilarious debate about who we apparently mirror in the world of fame and fortune. We also dig into age-gap relationships, inspired by the scrutiny surrounding Kristin Cavallari's love life. We're ripping apart double standards and pondering emotional maturity, all while Rachel cannot relate to Cavallari and deems a 24-year-old suitor's late nights incompatible with her love for early bedtimes.Fasten your seatbelts and let's indulge in some opulence as we whisk you through a luxury real estate tour, complete with 'big dock energy' and the unexpected resilience of fax machines. Remember Blockbuster nights? We sure do, and we're reminiscing about them amidst discussions of dual primary bedrooms and hosting grand banquets. And because life isn't all about the glitz, Rachel dons her parent hats to tackle the complexities of raising kids in a digital age.Wrapping it all up, we're here to remind you that safety never takes a backseat, and neither do laughter and life lessons. Join Rachel and Dale on this rollercoaster of an episode, where we swap cheerleading tales, share our ceaseless love for Biscoff cookies at high altitudes, and give you a peek into the world of Harbor Beach, Fort Lauderdale, without even stepping onto a yacht. Tune in, laugh out loud, and maybe even find a bit of wisdom tucked between the jokes. Don't forget to subscribe and come along for the ride!Contact Rachel Sobel:Email: rachel@whineandcheezits.comWebsite: www.whineandcheezits.comFacebook: Whine and Cheez - its by Rachel Sobel Instagram: @whineandcheezitsTikTok: @rachel.sobel.writesContact Dale Mclean:Email: dance715@aol.comWebsite: dalethehost.comInstagram: @UptownDale

Mar 26, 2024 • 29min
S2 Ep. 7: From Hair Woes to Fashion Shows and the Tastiest Charcuterie Challenges
Join us for a hilarious hair-raising adventure as we delve into Dale's people-pleasing habits related to his barbers. This comedic chapter promises laughs as we attempt to untangle the chaos of his styling escapades. We also delve into the high-stakes world of celebrity publicists and what they must have to endure. From DJ Khaled's sneaker branding, we explore the intersection of fame and accountability with wit and revealing insights.Next, we'll dive into fashion, discussing 'yummy mummies,' LED lights, and the everlasting debate over skinny jeans. Prepare for a sartorial showdown that might just have you rethinking your wardrobe choices. And for the food enthusiasts, we'll dissect the latest culinary craze, the 'sharkootery' board, in a light-hearted discussion that's sure to leave you hungry for more.Contact Rachel Sobel:Email: rachel@whineandcheezits.comWebsite: www.whineandcheezits.comFacebook: Whine and Cheez - its by Rachel Sobel Instagram: @whineandcheezitsTikTok: @rachel.sobel.writesContact Dale Mclean:Email: dance715@aol.comWebsite: dalethehost.comInstagram: @UptownDale

Mar 19, 2024 • 37min
S2 Ep. 6: All Things Sports with Special Guest, Former NFL Player Donte Whitner
In our conversation, Donte shares the highs and lows of his draft day, the camaraderie of team dynamics, and the rivalries that fuel competition. We discuss the importance of tone and voice in commanding a presence, whether on the field or behind the mic, and Donte reflects on his 11-year NFL career with the Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, and other teams.We also delve into the emotional challenges athletes face when retiring, the controversy surrounding participation trophies, and the evolution of the NFL. Personal stories highlight the support of family during recovery, and we stress the importance of financial literacy for building generational wealth.Donte emphasizes the importance of using knowledge and money wisely to leave a lasting legacy. We discuss resilience and instilling values of hard work in young athletes, leaving listeners with a renewed appreciation for sports' unwavering spirit and guidance on achieving financial stability post-athletics. Join our huddle for an episode that blends personal growth with a love for the game.Contact Rachel Sobel:Email: rachel@whineandcheezits.comWebsite: www.whineandcheezits.comFacebook: Whine and Cheez - its by Rachel Sobel Instagram: @whineandcheezitsTikTok: @rachel.sobel.writesContact Dale Mclean:Email: dance715@aol.comWebsite: dalethehost.comInstagram: @UptownDale

Mar 12, 2024 • 45min
S2 Ep. 5: Laughing at Life's Curveballs, Celebrity Encounters and Love is Blind
Imagine a lifelong friendship filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the occasional microphone mishap. That's the camaraderie Rachel and Dale bring to our latest banter-packed episode. We start with our shared dreams of mansion living, sharing quirky choices for our hypothetical homes. The conversation takes memorable detours through snowy rendezvous with Jesse Jackson and quick-witted reactions from Rachel, keeping stories as fresh as Madonna's career reinventions.We dive into Leap Day birthdays and surreal encounters with celebrities. From fan recognition turning ordinary moments extraordinary to themed birthday bashes and personal connections to legends like Bob Marley, we navigate personal space through the lens of "Love is Blind" and modern relationships.There's also chatter about sports, sharing our take on court-storming traditions after monumental victories and stirring nostalgia for college days. Whether discussing parenting or debating Tesla trucks, each topic sparks laughter and candid conversation.Contact Rachel Sobel:Email: rachel@whineandcheezits.comWebsite: www.whineandcheezits.comFacebook: Whine and Cheez - its by Rachel Sobel Instagram: @whineandcheezitsTikTok: @rachel.sobel.writesContact Dale Mclean:Email: dance715@aol.comWebsite: dalethehost.comInstagram: @UptownDale

Mar 5, 2024 • 40min
S2 Ep. 4: Public personas, Vanderpump and Social Media Etiquette
Still holding court in a beautiful mansion in Harbor Beach talking about hip hop, more reality TV. We can't not dive into the drama of "Vanderpump Rules" and navigate the stormy waters of on-screen romance and cultural trends, public personas and accountability. We wrap up with a candid chat about social media etiquette and the contradictory nature of Instagram celebrities. Mitch Mullen from Fidelity Real Estate LLC (our awesome sponsor) is on hand to talk more about the incredible 74 Isla Bahia Dr.Contact Rachel Sobel:Email: rachel@whineandcheezits.comWebsite: www.whineandcheezits.comFacebook: Whine and Cheez - its by Rachel Sobel Instagram: @whineandcheezitsTikTok: @rachel.sobel.writesContact Dale Mclean:Email: dance715@aol.comWebsite: dalethehost.comInstagram: @UptownDale

Feb 27, 2024 • 39min
S2 Ep. 3: Guest Brittany Brave Adds Her Take On Reality TV
Brittany Brave is back for another episode while we take over the gorgeous mansion at 74 Isla Bahia in Fort Lauderdale. Of course there is no shortage of humor as we dive into our obsession with reality TV, from 'Naked Attraction' antics to 'Jersey Shore' charm. We ponder whether reality TV simplifies love or complicates the plot and wrap up with Brittany's punchy takes in "Don't get me started." So, grab your headphones and join us for another boujee day on the water while we pretend for a few hours that this is real life. Don't forget to follow the pod, subscribe, and better yet leave a review!Contact Rachel Sobel:Email: rachel@whineandcheezits.comWebsite: www.whineandcheezits.comFacebook: Whine and Cheez - its by Rachel Sobel Instagram: @whineandcheezitsTikTok: @rachel.sobel.writesContact Dale Mclean:Email: dance715@aol.comWebsite: dalethehost.comInstagram: @UptownDale

Feb 20, 2024 • 40min
S2 Ep. 2: Comedian Brittany Brave Reads Our Birth Charts
Join us for an unforgettable podcast episode with comedian, writer and all around badass, Brittany Brave, where laughter meets life's raw experiences. From sharing laughs at a DJ battle to discussing serious topics like dating hiatuses and domestic violence, we dive into the importance of kindness in relationships, sprinkle in some humor about dating quirks and astrology (Rachel and Dale both get readings of their birth charts), and celebrate the joy of low-maintenance friendships. As Brittany teases her upcoming comedy tour, get ready for a roller coaster of emotions, belly laughs, and heartfelt stories. Hit that subscribe button for more Friends Without Benefits.Contact Rachel Sobel:Email: rachel@whineandcheezits.comWebsite: www.whineandcheezits.comFacebook: Whine and Cheez - its by Rachel Sobel Instagram: @whineandcheezitsTikTok: @rachel.sobel.writesContact Dale Mclean:Email: dance715@aol.comWebsite: dalethehost.comInstagram: @UptownDale

Feb 13, 2024 • 29min
S2 Ep. 1: Life Update and Mansion Madness!
Sunshine, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia - that's what we're serving up as we swing open the doors to Season 2, all from the splendor of an $18 million mansion in Fort Lauderdale. Dale and I decked to the nines in our Florida best, are back to inject your day with our signature comedic flair. And let's not forget our new producer, who's quickly learning that when we talk about locked doors and wardrobe choices, it's not just chatter – it's an invitation to join in on the fun. From celeb rider revelations to the enigmatic charm of Inside Out Oreos, we're zigzagging through topics with the ease of a pontoon on calm waters (some with topless gals waving hello), ready to reel you back into the fold of Friends Without Benefits.As we settle into luxurious patio furniture with a perfect view of the Intracoastal and lots of snacks, we're digging into some life updates to kick off the season. Dale, in a move that might divide the room, stands up for the underdog of confections: Raisinettes. Huge thanks to Courtney and the whole team at Fidelity Real Estate for letting us start the season at the gorgeous 74 Isla Bahia in Harbor Beach. Here's to laughter, unexpected confessions, and the sweet life of Friends Without Benefits.Contact Rachel Sobel:Email: rachel@whineandcheezits.com Website: www.whineandcheezits.comFacebook: Whine and Cheez - its by Rachel Sobel Instagram: @whineandcheezitsTikTok: @rachel.sobel.writesContact Dale Mclean:Email: dance715@aol.comWebsite: dalethehost.comInstagram: @UptownDale

Oct 24, 2023 • 34min
Ep. 56: How We Really Feel About Bethenny’s Interview with Rachel/Raquel
Award-winning author, Rachel, and successful entertainment company owner, Dale, discuss the drama of Vanderpump Rules and analyze Bethenny Frankel's interview. They talk about their favorite TV characters, a controversial movie, frustrations with slow walkers, and their opinions on white chocolate. The podcast also includes random conversations, shoutouts, and an unexpected taping experience.

Oct 18, 2023 • 34min
Ep. 55:The Hoe Phase and The One Who Got Away
Dale, Rachel (and Marni who’s sticking around for a few episodes), dig into the phenomenon of ‘The Hoe Phase” and the age-old problem of the one who got away. They also reminisce about summer camp hook ups and Dale’s feelings about kissing. You can follow Rachel, award winning author, writer, and speaker, on Instagram at @whineandcheezits ; and Dale, successful entertainment company owner and in-arena host for the Miami Heat at @uptowndale Show created and hosted by Rachel Sobel and Dale McLean. Produced and edited by Let’s Podcast Now Recorded at Pizza District If you like what you hear please subscribe and better yet leave a review!
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