

Friends Without Benefits
Uptown Dale & Rachel Sobel
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
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 21, 2024 • 35min
S2 Ep. 14 - Dale is Getting Vulnerable Today
This is a little bit of a different episode for Rachel and Dale. Since many of us have aging parents, Dale is getting vulnerable about his own experience right now with his own mother. So, today, they are peeling back the curtain on a topic close to their hearts: the nuanced dance of family dynamics as parents age. This episode is a tapestry of personal stories and has the duo reflecting on how these have influenced their personal growth.Join Rachel and Dale as they share the raw truth of grief, estrangement and loss, acknowledging the arduous path of caregiving with no guidebook in hand. Despite our usual flavor of humor, we pause to extend a hand of solidarity to our listeners who may find themselves on a similar journey. It's about finding community in the shared struggle and embracing the support systems that help us navigate these tender transitions. As we round off this heartfelt episode, we find solace in laughter and the quirky nuances of life. So, whether you're in the throes of caring for an aging loved one or simply seeking a connection, come join us for an episode that promises authenticity, laughter and reflection.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

May 14, 2024 • 37min
S2 Ep. 13 - Tom Brady Roast, Taylor Swift's Explicit Era, And Being Charitable
Welcome back to Friends Without Benefits! In this episode, Rachel and Dale reunite in a stunning Fort Lauderdale mansion (628 Coral Way to be exact), sponsored by Courtney Ortiz from Fidelity Real Estate. Join them as they dive into the hilariously cringe-worthy Tom Brady roast on Netflix, exploring the best and worst moments.They discuss the surprising moments of Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft on the mic, and how Nikki Glaser stole the show. Dale and Rachel also tackle hot topics like Beyonce's unwelcome foray into country music and Taylor Swift's explicit lyrics.Stay tuned for a heartfelt "Say It with Your Chest" segment, where Dale shares the importance of St. Jude's Hospital and how you can help. Plus, discover a local treat from Sweet Missy's, featuring delectable Biscoff cookies as the star. Don't miss this laughter-filled episode set in a luxurious backdrop, offering both humor and heart.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

Apr 30, 2024 • 30min
S2 Ep. 12: The "Babygirl" Vibe, Savannah Bananas and TikTok Trends
Exploring the 'baby girl vibe' for men and its impact on toxic masculinity, along with coverage of Savannah Bananas baseball team. Banter on TikTok trends, health challenges, and hilarious anecdotes like giving Mountain Dew to a kid at a day camp. Fun discussions on potential collaborations and celebrity look-alikes, with light-hearted banter throughout.

Apr 23, 2024 • 41min
S2 Ep. 11: Online antics, Canceled Celebrities and TikTok Scandals
Join us for our latest episode, where we dive into the absurdities of everything that happens online. Laugh along as we share tales of podcast stardom in Dubai all while questioning why we're not cool enough for those glamorous press trips. From dating blunders to the marriage prospects of conjoined twins, we serve up a buffet of bizarre topics with a side of laughs.We tackle the complex issue of canceled celebrities and loving an artist's work but not the artist themselves, discussing the legacies of Chris Brown, R. Kelly, and P. Diddy. Get ready for some real talk about personal scandal and creative genius, along with our take on a captivating TikTok detective saga.A huge thanks to all of you for your support and please don't forget to subscribe and 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

Apr 16, 2024 • 37min
S2 Ep. 10: Reality TV Tea and We Play a Few Rounds of FMK
Today on Friends Without Benefits we dive into our monthly reality TV's recap with all the juiciest tea and behind-the-scenes drama.Then, get ready for some armchair psychoanalysis as we unravel the love triangles and redemption arcs of our favorite reality stars. Brace yourself for a hilarious game of "Eff, Marry, Kill" with TV's biggest names. We also cringe over social media blunders and reminisce about simpler times before oversharing took over.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

Apr 9, 2024 • 34min
S2 Ep. 9: Platonic Bonds, Snowbird Exodus and The Drake Concert Incident
Ever found yourself in the friend zone and wondered if that was the best place to be? Join Rachel and me, Dale, as we laugh our way through the nuances of platonic friendships and the benefits they bring to our lives in "Friends Without Benefits." We'll take you behind the scenes of our unbreakable bond, share the highs of hosting for the Miami Heat, and even delve into the seasonal migration of Snowbird cars that leaves Florida buzzing with stories.If you've ever faced the dilemma of disclosing your dietary preferences on a date, or found yourself at a concert with someone who just doesn't vibe with the scene, this episode is for you. We'll recount tales of dating faux pas, the social etiquette of concert invitations, and the clumsy maneuvers through the social minefield of a Drake concert gone sideways. Our candid conversation is peppered with personal anecdotes and advice that's as practical as it is entertaining, all while exploring the art of choosing the perfect concert outfit and navigating the pitfalls of differing habits.To top it off, we're taking a playful jab at the unexpected athleticism at model volleyball events and dishing on the juicy drama of "The Bachelor" finale. And let's not forget the daily irritations of life, like those folks who meander aimlessly through parking lots or the mystical roundabouts that seem designed to test your patience. So, come laugh along with us as we muse over life's little quirks and the big moments that make it all worthwhile.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

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