Original subtitles

♪ Hold me Hold me like you want me ♪

Ha!

Remember, you have to flip the action and reaction.

- Okay. - Hup!

Beautiful. Ha!

♪ Make my Christmas dreams come true ♪

Keep it up!

Ha! It's a dance!

Communicate with your opponent through eye contact.

Hey!

Ha.

Ha!

Hup!

Not bad for a podcast creator.

Not bad at all!

There you go.

- Okay. - So, any last thoughts

on sword choreography?

Where it's led you? How it's shaped your life?

Well, I suppose it's like I said before.

It's a dance, even with an opponent.

Well, thank you, Jaclyn. I'm gonna miss this.

Are you gonna put these training sessions

- in the podcast? - No, no, no,

that was just for fun.

I keep myself out of the narrative.

I believe that makes for a messy storytelling.

I like keeping my focus on my subjects.

Merry Christmas,

- and thank you again. - Merry Christmas.

Hi.

Hi! Ooh, are those the special Christmas flavor?

Yep. Helena's Bakery started making them yesterday.

Wow.

And I just finished up

with Jaclyn Snyder.

Nice!

Well, have you decided what angle you wanna take?

I think I'm going with sword choreography

as a metaphor for conflict and communication.

You're like a Michelangelo with a slab of marble.

Yeah, exactly.

Oh, by the way, Max and I

are going to a Christmas pub crawl on Friday.

You should come.

Help wake up the Christmas spirit?

You know I have plenty of Christmas spirit.

I'm just... going cozier these days.

Tonight, I'm taking another stab at my mom's mulled cider recipe.

I know you miss your mom. Especially this time of year,

but I'm worried you're missing out.

We live in New York.

You should let the city help you celebrate.

Yeah.

Um, by the way, Janice was looking for you.

She wanted to set up a meeting.

Yeah, I heard she was making rounds

about how to...

- optimize listenership. - Oh.

I'm worried "Life and the Like"

is on the chopping block.

She set up a meeting with me yesterday.

- It was fine. - Of course it was!

"Live Life Winning" is one of the most

popular podcasts out there right now.

Uh... Janice.

Six o'clock.

I think I'm gonna work from home today.

Yeah, yeah.

Hey, how's it going?

Now, an ongoing misconception

is that apps and our phones create distance between people.

But the Sous Vide app is the perfect example

of the exact opposite.

It's like a book club, but with recipes.

Real-time cooking parties over long distances.

Um, our market research indicates

that this new generation of consumers is review driven.

For a Christmas theme, we thought it'd be a fun idea

to incorporate cartoon characters like elves,

reindeer, or even Santa Claus himself,

if that's not too hackneyed.

Hackneyed?

Hmm. Maybe.

Um, or maybe something classic?

Like Ugg boots? So many studies.

All this market research. I guess I was just looking

for something a little more...

Alive.

Raw.

Alive. Raw.

- Yeah, yeah. - Yeah.

We can do that.

Either way, really looking forward

to your pitch presentation on the 23rd.

- Thank you for coming in. - Mm-hmm.

Great. Yeah.

I'm sorry, guys.

Alive. Raw.

Yeah, you should probably just give this account to Nadia.

Don't you think? I mean, we all know Christmas content,

it's... it's not your forte anyway.

Beth Barca should know that the creative director is on it.

We need to win this account for the agency.

It'll keep us tapped in and relevant.

And speaking of Christmas content,

I'm feeling rather inspired.

I'm gearing up to go see the Schultzes for the holidays.

- Oh. - Tanya and I are actually

meeting in a few hours to discuss travel plans.

Tanya Schultz, your bestie from childhood!

Maybe, on your drive to Vermont,

you two can discuss why you're not a couple already.

- Maybe. - You know, the latest

"Live Life Winning" podcast

made me think of you two. It talked about how people

ignore good things that are right in front of them

because they think that everything worthwhile

must be a challenge.

That's not a revolutionary philosophy, Bryan,

it's a cliché. Tanya is my friend.

Her family is like my family.

End of story. Get outta here. Go do some work.

Think about it.

- Okay! - Yay!

- Okay, there you go. - Thank you.

: Cheers.

Yum!

It's good, but it's still off.

Better than last time.

You know, I think the cardamom was a good addition.

- Mm, mm-hmm. - You know, if this meeting

- does happen with Janice-- - If you're unable to hide

from her until 2036?

Do you think I should come up with pitches for new podcasts?

No! I think you should stand by "Life and the Like".

She comes from a true crime background.

I mean, she wants things that have a big hook, you know?

To be sensational. Maybe I could do a series

on a spy. Or a tightrope walker.

What makes your podcast

so much fun is that you find everyday people

who do everyday things,

but you end up wanting to keep hanging out with them.

You're authentic! So be it!

So, no spy?

Maybe not.

Fine.

They only had one raspberry left.

But I thought I'd let you have it.

- Yes! - To repay me,

you can do the driving to your parents' house.

About that. Okay, you know that huge

pine tree outside my parents' kitchen window?

- Yeah, the squirrel hotel. - It fell over onto the roof

and now they have to repair it, so they've decided

that they won't be hosting Christmas this year.

Are they sure? You know, maybe we can help them.

They are pretty decided. In fact, they're coming here,

to spend Christmas in New York.

I'm a bit worried it's gonna be tight at my place.

But the silver lining is now they get to meet Cliff.

Wait, um, Cliff?

I thought you weren't that into him?

I forgot to update you. Okay, we had this great weekend.

He took me upstate to this festival

and we went ice skating. And...

...something clicked into place.

And it turns out, he's really a Christmas guy,

so I think Mom and Dad are gonna love him.

I'm a Christmas guy.

Of course. It's not a contest.

- No. - 'Kay. Anyway,

Cliff's outta town, but he'll be back on Christmas Eve.

You know, of course, you're welcome to join us,

but I also know you may have your own traditions here, so...

Oh, do you not want me to join you guys?

No, no, you-you can, you know, I just...

I know it's not Vermont, so...

No, that's okay. I wouldn't wanna get in the way of Cliff.

No, you... you wouldn't be.

Hmm.

Mm!

Uh, oh, you just got a...

Mm!

Mm!

I think I was wrong when I used the term "cliché"

to describe your assessment of me and Tanya's relationship.

You know how we always say there's a fine line

between cliché and classic?

Classic being universal, undeniable.

Maybe this is classic.

Maybe you're right about me and Tanya.

Finally.

You know how we always talk about that ah-ha moment?

Last night there was some raspberry jam on her chin

and it was just this... ah-ha!

- It was a moment! - Can I just point out that

you are talking about all this in advertising terms.

Of course, she has this new boyfriend named Cliff,

who's a real Christmas guy.

What? I thought you wanted the two of us to get together?

But now she's not available.

You know, today, "Live Life Winning,"

they are doing call-ins for a special Christmas episode.

You could call them.

Eh, you know, get some neutral advice.

Plus, you love a good focus group.

I like that.

Ginnie, can I see you for a minute?

We're gonna need the numbers on every show we have

in broadcast right now. Especially "Life and the Like".

Now, where is Elise anyway?

Just like here.

Hey. Hi.

You're hiding from Janice, aren't you?

Just a little. What are you recording?

The big Christmas call-in.

Though Charlotte Noel just cancelled,

so I have to go at it all alo--

- Actually... - No, no, no.

- This is perfect. - No, no.

You can co-host with me.

No. No, no, no, no,

that's not really my skill set.

Ah, there you go. You look great!

Okay.

Are we recording now?

Hello and Happy Holidays, everyone.

- I guess we are. - This is Bonnie Medley,

host of "Live Life Winning".

And today is our epic Christmas special,

where we answer any of your holiday questions,

whether it be hosting anxiety,

or what cookies Santa really loves.

And joining me today is our special guest,

Miss Yuletide!

A brilliant expert on all things Christmas.

So, let's get started with our first caller here.

We've got a "Kris Kringle".

I'm guessing that's an alias.

Talk to us. What is your Christmas conundrum?

Hello. Uh...

my conundrum is that

I think I may be in love with my long-time friend,

but I'm not sure.

But also, time is of the essence

because she has just gotten a new boyfriend.

That's a classic one.

Classic. See? That's what I thought.

I've known her since we were kids.

Christmas was a big deal for her family.

My family was always busy with work.

And because we're Pakistani, we didn't really celebrate it.

So, they always adopted me for the holiday.

I was actually supposed to spend Christmas in Vermont with them,

but plans changed, and now, they're coming

to New York instead. And...

I don't know if I'm even invited.

She says this guy is a real Christmas guy,

and I thought maybe I could be a better Christmas guy.

What I need is a strategy to win her heart,

and her family's, and secure my spot.

Mm-hmm, mm-hmm.

I'm gonna let my co-host, Miss Yuletide,

take this one. Why don't you go ahead?

So, you wanna secure your spot.

Sounds like a going out of business crush.

You have known her for a long time,

she now has a boyfriend, and suddenly, you're interested.

I recommend you leave her be.

You'll get over it. Hmm.

You talk about being a better Christmas guy.

Is Christmas spirit something you can really compete at?

Why not? Christmas is a commodity

often used by companies to sell you something.

Why can't I use it to win over

the potential love of my life?

Because the spirit in Christmas spirit

hearkens the ephemeral,

the magical, not the strategic.

That's cute and all, but I have less than a week.

I need an airtight playbook.

Oh yeah, I mean, if you're looking for a book--

Cute? No need to condescend, Kris Kringle.

Oh, there's plenty of need, Miss Yuletide.

Didn't this start with you not even knowing

if you loved this woman?

Yet you're more concerned about winning

than sorting out your feelings.

Isn't this podcast called "Live Life Winning"?

Oh, well, yeah but--

And-and don't they say, he who hesitates uh...

He who hesitates, what?

- I don't remember the rest. - Well, I know how the rest

of this call goes. Bye!

Hmm.

- That was crazy! - I know.

I'm sorry.

No! I knew you had it in you! Whoa!

Life and the Like.

Life and the Like.

Life and the Li--

I don't know. It trips you up.

There's too many Ls. Why so many Ls?

I think there's only two.

Okay.

I will admit that long form,

thoughtful podcast storytelling is not my specialty.

I like to think of things like what makes the listener

have a heated debate with their friends over dinner?

What propels the listener from one episode to the next?

Getting to know someone?

Learning about their life philosophy.

Taking away a little inspiration?

Yeah, I'm gonna need you to pivot.

I'm gonna let you hold on to "Life and the Like"

but I want you to think of things like cliffhangers.

Something juicy!

Like an episode of the Housewives.

I like to look to reality TV for inspiration.

Oh! I want you to unearth

that sassiness I heard in that Kris Kringle call

the other day. The sassiness that got social media talking.

I-I don't even know why everyone's all aflutter.

You have this typical situation

where an indecisive man wants something

because suddenly, he can't have it.

I mean, he talks about using Christmas as a strategy

to help him win. Like it's some sort of game.

Christmas is supposed to be the season of love.

Not the season of winning.

There it is.

The season of winning!

If he wants to get the girl,

let him try.

In fact, maybe you even instruct him.

Wait, wait, I-I'm sorry. I was just venting.

This wasn't supposed to be a pitch.

Ooh! It'll be a like, a holiday special.

On the surface, you can teach him to be

a better Christmas guy, or whatever,

but really, it's all a tool to win this woman's love.

The deadline, boyfriend's arrival.

That's it! Ah, Christmas is love.

Or... maybe it's heartbreak.

Find out the next episode.

You can fast-track, edit as you go.

We'll release the whole series on Christmas Eve.

Ah!

I love a good brainstorming session.

Wouldn't this be dishonest?

No! It will be a reveal.

Okay, and um,

what will motivate this family to go along with this?

On the surface, as far as everyone else is concerned,

he'll be their guide for the ultimate

Christmas in New York.

Also, perks. We'll set 'em up

in some swoon-worthy luxury rental.

Okay.

That's it!

Off you go.

Okay, yeah, sure. Okay.

Send in Patrick.

No, Christine. Did I fire Christine?

Never mind. Just send somebody in.

Okay, Christmas in the park. Christmas in the mall.

Found it. He's a higher-up at this ad agency,

here in the city.

Of course.

Commodity, et cetera.

So, are you gonna move forward with it?

I have to if I want Here-N-Now to keep producing my work.

Either way, first obstacle is getting him to agree

to this in the first place.

You know what you could do?

I dare you to go into his office

and yell, "Kris Kringle?!"

"Is there a Kris Kringle here?"

I just might.

Oh. You seem serious.

Hey, Dad. It's me. How's it goin' over there?

Have you guys got the neighbor kid

to put up the Christmas tree yet?

Are you guys actually gonna do anything to celebrate this year?

Anyways, um...

I'm here.

Give my love to Mom.

He is lost.

Who? My father?

No, he who hesitates is lost.

- That's how the saying goes. - Oh. It's you.

It's me. Miss Yuletide. My actual name is Elise.

Daniyal Khan.

Wow, that's your name on the door.

- My father's. - I wanted to apologize.

I was abrupt. I'm sorry.

So, you came here to apologize?

Also, I think I realized

there might be something to your mission.

And what better combined with a love story than Christmas?

So, you came here to encourage me?

No, I uh...

May I?

To make it up to you,

I want to help you by featuring

your journey on my podcast, "Life and the Like".

I surmise from our curt conversation

that organizing Christmas festivities

doesn't come naturally to you.

That being the better Christmas guy would be a mission.

A feat.

Possibly.

Well, it comes naturally to me.

Especially Christmas in this great city we live in.

You asked about a playbook.

Well, your playbook,

with my behind-the-scenes help

is to show your friend and her family

the best possible Christmas in New York,

becoming the better Christmas guy.

But the real mission is to make this um, woman--

- Tanya. - Tanya,

realize what's already in front of her.

Real, lasting love.

Before this boyfriend even gets a chance.

You just have to record the whole thing?

Yeah.

Huh.

But doesn't that make your love story

even... better?

Something worth sharing with the world?

Oh, also, my podcast production company

can offer Tanya's family a stunning holiday rental.

I can send you the link. It's within walking distance

to some of New York's best Christmassy things.

As tempting as it all sounds,

I feel like I'd be luring people I care about

into a ruse, and for that reason,

I'm gonna have to say no.

That's disappointing.

But understandable.

Well, thank you for your time.

One more thing, you said you were worried

about not being included in the festivities.

Well, this podcast would mean

spending a lot of time with Tanya and her family.

Would necessitate it.

I'm sorry again for the other day.

Hey. Can you airdrop me the link to that luxury rental?

Just out of curiosity.

Sure.

Huh.

Here, gimme those.

Thank you for your chivalry.

Hmm. What do we always say?

Chivalry is dead. Chivalry, schmivalry.

Maybe it's not.

Maybe it's not dead.

Okay, why are you being weird?

Now you got a pitch presentation coming up?

- Actually, yes. - That explains it.

I'm so worried that the guest bed

is gonna hurt my dad's back.

You know, I got the weirdest offer today.

Talk to me.

Have you heard of that podcast,

- "Life and the Like?" - Yeah, I've heard it,

but you know, I don't really listen to podcasts.

Well, the host is a friend of a friend

and she and I got into a heated debate

about the Christmas spirit.

She and I? Heated?

- No, not... no. - Okay.

What I'm saying is she heard about my holiday plans

and approached me about doing a podcast

where I'm assigned the challenge

of showing you and your family

the best New York Christmas ever.

- Oh! - I said no, of course.

Wait! What? Why?

Well, all that recording, this annoying woman

just following us around, wiring us up with mics,

pulling us aside for little interviews? Ugh!

Yeah, I guess. But I don't know, I mean,

it sounds kinda neat, right?

I know both Mom and Dad wouldn't mind talking

about their love of Christmas.

Especially now, right, since they can't do

their usual extravaganza.

Well, she did offer us

this really nice luxury rental.

- It seems too good to be true. - Let me see that.

We're doing this!

- Can I have my phone back? - No!

Mistakes.

What I learned from Jaclyn

is that the trick to sword-fighting is trust.

A balance of committing to moves

while keeping the other person safe.

- Hello? - Hi, Elise. It's Daniyal.

- Who? - Kris Kringle?

Oh, hi. How can I help you?

I wanna do it. I wanna do the podcast.

Oh, really. Um, great!

What made you change your mind?

Maybe I do have a thing or two to learn about Christmas.

Also, the luxury rental was a huge draw for Tanya.

- Great! I'm excited. - Me too.

Okay. Bye.

Bye.

Well, all right then.

Oh, Broadway show.

That's a good one.

Ah, yes.

What else, what else, what else?

Now, you have to be an expert on New York Christmas.

As much as you've been trying to avoid it.

I'm just gonna read up on it like I do everything else.

Fake it 'til you make it.

Oh, I'm not good at faking it.

I'll take any advice you have.

What makes Christmas in New York so amazing?

It's like I've been telling you, just step outside.

No, I need something more solid,

more activity driven. I need a strategy.

Strategy?

That's not your usual uh... strategy.

I need a place to start.

Hey, you got this.

Keep goin'.

- As I build this-- - Okay.

...apparatus.

Well, there you have it, dear listeners,

despite being mostly a homebody,

it was now up to me to become an expert

on all things Christmas in New York.

So, with the help of some trusty guidebooks,

I started drawing up a playbook.

In the hopes of helping Kris Kringle get the girl.

So, the thing about Christmas in New York

is that it's almost impossible

not to find a Christmas that speaks to your heart.

Feels like home.

Speaking of home, what do you think?

Wow! You really outdid yourself on the decoration.

But I'm not really hearing a strategy.

Oh! No need.

If we focus on the Christmas experience,

the intended result of winning Tanya's heart

will come naturally. So, just relax

and let the Christmas spirit wash over you.

Still doesn't seem like a plan.

Patience, Kris Kringle.

Now, our first task is to prepare

for the family's arrival in one hour,

and I am gonna start recording now.

Hello, world.

Oh! I picked these up.

I thought they may be of some guidance.

No, no, no, we don't need those.

You're gonna have to trust me, Daniyal.

We have to make our moves from the heart,

from the gut. Not-not from a guide!

You know, I think the best

thing to make them feel the most at home

is making sure they have personalized stockings.

Why are we making five stockings?

Oh, well, Tanya, her parents, you, and Cliff.

Why does Cliff get a stocking?!

He's invited.

Oops.

You're a child.

Hey, so, I thought it'd be really fun

if the drink of the night could be Manhattans,

with a Christmas twist.

- Hmm. - So, the way we infuse

these New York drinks with Christmas spirit

is by adding a little a bit of nutmeg-flavored simple syrup.

It was my mom's recipe.

Which will be posted on the "Life and the Like" blog.

So, let me get this straight.

The way we're constructing this fabulous New York Christmas

is by making a drink called a Manhattan?

So far, this feels vague and aimless.

So far, as in, the first hour and a half of our process?

Doesn't look like patience is one of your virtues.

I just avoid procrastination.

Okay. Look at it this way.

Sure, we could go straight to Rockefeller Center

- for ice skating. - See, now that sounds perfect.

But, why do the first thing you think of?

It's so impersonal.

You know, regardless, we're on the same team,

so let's work together. We have what, 15 minutes

before the family arrives? Do you wanna spend

- all this time arguing? - No.

Right.

So, shake.

Keep going.

- Still? - Mm-hmm.

Oh, my goodness, look at this.

Let's go!

Oh, my God!

- Dad, look at this! - Oh!

- Wow! - This place is amazing!

Oh, it's so beautiful!

As Tanya's family arrives,

I've instructed Daniyal to ever-so-stealthily--

- Honey. - Love it?

... try to tease out if there was one

Christmassy thing that always makes them think

of New York City.

Maybe something they've always dreamt of doing.

- Wow! - That may seem like cheating,

but it's just a way to make the journey more personal.

- Wow. - Let me take your jacket.

- Why? - 'Cause we're inside.

Okay.

I watch as Daniyal takes Tanya's coat.

Just let me... I'll just take it for ya.

- Okay. - But she seems more confused

- than appreciative. - But my...

- my arm's stuck. I just... - I got, I got this.

Her arm's stuck.

It's not charming.

It's more of an awkward struggle.

- All right. - High-five.

What?

- Hi, Patty. - Hi. We just speak right in--

Yeah, just speak as you normally would.

- Oh! - So, how are you feeling

- about being here? - Well, I'll certainly miss

not spending Christmas at my home in Vermont,

but why not take the opportunity

and make an adventure out of it, right?

And this podcast, well,

we're just thrilled to be doing it.

Patty works so hard to make everyone's Christmas special.

I'm... happy that this can be a break for her.

She can just relax and enjoy the holiday

without having to coordinate everything.

And I'm looking forward

to capturing the festivities with my new hobby.

Actually, Patty calls it a hobby.

I call it my new artistic pursuit.

That's it. Smile.

Hold it!

Having to live up to my parents' level

of Christmas celebration, here in New York,

was intimidating.

But now Daniyal is doing the podcast

and being our Christmas guide, he...

he's a great friend.

And I understand there's someone else in the picture?

Cliff, yeah. You know, usually it takes

a long time for me to wanna introduce someone

to my parents, but when I saw the stocking over there,

with his name on it, I can't explain it.

Something, it just felt right. Fit.

I think it's going great.

They like your stockings and I'll admit it,

those weird, little nutmeg Manhattans.

What? Do you disagree?

No, um I just wonder

if maybe there's a different angle.

Like?

I don't know. Um, what if it's less

get the girl and more, she loves me, she loves me not?

Less of a competition and more of a rumination.

You don't think I stand a chance, do you?

No, I just don't want to record hours upon hours

of your heart getting rejected.

There's not much of an arc there.

Not much of an arc. You lack competitive spirit.

Did I just hear someone say,

"Chestnuts roasting on an open fire"?

I've got a great idea!

: Oh! Let's hear it!

- Are you guys excited? - Absolutely!

- Yes! - This chestnut guy

is the best kept secret in all of New York City.

He's always moving around from location to location.

- Oh! - Which is what makes him

so special. Or should I say, Christmas magical.

Let's go get some. Come on!

Oh, these smell so good.

What do you think?

Wow! I mean, this is really extraordinary.

I... I had no idea you had this in your repertoire.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

I was skeptical at first,

but Tanya did give him a look.

How can I describe it? Like a romantic reassessment.

No, a... a double take spanning decades.

Could there be a twinge of hope for Daniyal after all?

Ugh, no, Elise. You

have no idea what you're doing.

And he can probably tell.

What's next?

What's next, you might ask?

A New York Christmas classic, of course.

One that's beautiful, and fun,

at once extravagant and free of charge.

Strolling down Fifth Avenue

and taking in the stunning window displays.

In fact, you wouldn't have a proper New York Christmas

without this requisite tradition.

Oh, sorry.

Hi. Peppermint hot chocolate.

There's a shop right over there that makes the best.

Is this your spectacular New York activity?

What do you call these, New York hot chocolate?

Your spectacular New York activity seems to be sarcasm.

No, this is a treat that goes along with our next activity.

Chestnuts on an open fire was amazing.

You saw the way she looked at me.

- Yes, I did. - Ha.

Which is why I'm trying to roll with that momentum.

- You're recording? - I'm always recording.

Some of the best material comes from the in between,

unexpected moments.

Besides, remember, this is half guide

to New York Christmas, half your journey.

I don't think my journey's that interesting.

Everyone's journey is interesting.

Okay, uh...

follow me! I'm really excited about this one.

Okay.

Okay, so this is one of the best things

about Christmas in New York, the stunning window displays.

I thought we could do a dry run

and then, come back with Tanya and her family after dark,

when there's more atmosphere.

- Sounds great. - Really?

Yeah.

I want to give credit where credit's due.

Okay.

This display is impressive

but what do you think is going on here?

He's going to a Christmas party?

Yes, a deer version of an ugly sweater party.

Or... maybe the deer

is masquerading as a reindeer because he's a spy.

Has worker health and safety checked out these conditions?

I am concerned they're not wearing gloves.

Well, this one's simple.

That's you and Tanya on Christmas Eve.

Your longstanding love realized,

and you're mid-dance. Mid spin.

- Here you are. - Thanks, Elise.

Okay.

This is a big part of New York Christmas,

taking in the magnificent window displays down Fifth Avenue.

Our first stop, this whimsical winter wonderland.

- Oh, Daniyal, it's so magical! - Oh, wow!

- Agreed! - Oh, it's just wonderful!

Oh, thanks.

So, whadda ya think?

Such a classic

New York activity.

It's one of those things I always mean to do,

but never do. You know?

I do.

I realize there are more and more things

like that in my life.

Like CrossFit?

Or reading through that pile of "New Yorkers"?

No, I...

what do you think is going on in there?

Um...

they're trying to get us to buy a $400 sweater?

Oh, sorry.

Cliff and I are in a debate on whether he should fly

into JFK or LaGuardia.

Okay.

What were you saying?

What's happening in there?

Why is that elf climbing that ladder?

They're not even wearing gloves.

Aren't they afraid of getting frostbite?

What's up with that?

Yeah, I... well, I'm not sure.

I mean, is it supposed to make sense?

You're the one in advertising.

Dear listeners, sometimes all you have to do

is step outside and let the city help you celebrate.

But back to our number one topic,

the romance.

Daniyal seems to have had a little setback

as far as interest from Tanya,

but he is determined to keep trying.

Which is good, right? You don't just give up.

Though I... I still can't help but feel that maybe...

maybe they're not right for one another.

Note to self,

if this is the case and it all ends in defeat,

is that our story?

Seems kinda somber.

Maybe...

maybe flip-flop love story with Christmas.

B story to A story.

Almost.

I am feeling inspired.

What if we do an elaborate window display

in our front window next year? I can get some mannequins.

Mom, do you really want the whole town standing

- in front of our window? - I do!

Okay, why did you even have to ask?

The thing about Sous Vide

is that you're not actually alone when you're cooking.

- It's interactive. - Okay,

but should we avoid anything romance related,

like we normally do for these holiday campaigns?

Since it narrows the field of receptive viewers?

I think a single viewer might see the ad as hopeful,

full of possibility.

Maybe we should just do away with the whole idea

of reviewing altogether.

Think of this, a split screen.

Two people, two different kitchens,

but they're looking at each other... affectionately.

What did you think of the excerpts I sent?

Uh...

The family, the Schultzes, is it?

- Yeah. - They're so... nice.

Aren't they?

Hanging out with them is like dipping a cookie

into a warm glass of milk.

That's a great way to put it. Cookies.

Yeah. Then there's just mush.

- Oh. - Where's the danger?

You need the family to argue,

get in each other's way.

Maybe one of them disapproves of Daniyal.

Tries to sabotage the whole thing!

I'm sorry um...

wasn't this supposed to be a journey where I guide him?

Help him win Christmas and the girl?

I'm gonna roll that back.

Things are way too easy for Daniyal right now.

We need more drama. Things going wrong.

We are really not doing justice

to this whole love triangle thing.

I mean, this Cliff guy, he's not even around.

Just like a line.

Flat... line.

Pew!

Yep.

Bored.

I'm gonna go.

Hey, Dad! I was just trying to catch you

in between meetings.

I wanted to give you an update on the Sous Vide pitch.

It's... going great.

I've actually managed to effectively convey

the Christmas spirit.

It's exciting, actually.

Uh, anyways, uh...

Fred and Patty Schultz say hi. Okay, bye.

- Hey! - Hi!

I wanted to pitch a bold, new tactic to you.

Sure! I mean, we're a team. Your input is welcome.

Okay, so I'm thinking why not just be direct?

Tell her how I feel? You know, why all the spectacle?

- Just fast track it. - Well...

because...

what's romantic about fast tracking?

Where would the great story be, hmm?

As of now, it'd be one and a half episodes' worth.

One and a half episodes' worth.

May I remind you that we are talking

about my actual life here?

Um, well, it's worth mentioning

that for our upcoming strategy,

I was actually uh... inspired by your point of view.

I know you're trying to appeal to my ego, but go on.

By showing Tanya and her family

all New York has to offer, what are we missing?

Home.

So, how do we bring home to New York?

Do you have any favorite activities you miss?

Yes, snowshoeing.

Snowshoeing? Great.

- In New York? - Doesn't New York

have everything? Huh.

You know, I didn't wanna say anything,

but I was really gonna miss snowshoeing this year.

- Yeah. - Who would've known,

snowshoeing in New York?

Well, they do say

that New York has everything.

- Oh! - Hmm.

- Including hot chocolate! - Oh, Dad! Wait up!

- Wait for me! - Come on, Daniyal!

Oh, I... just a second.

- Oh, you're recording. - Uh, yeah,

I don't mean to be sneaky,

it's just, you never know what you're gonna miss.

It's for those in between, unexpected moments, right?

I mean, you always have to be prepared.

That's exactly my philosophy.

I have to admit that I listened

to a couple of your podcasts.

- Oh. - You are so wonderful, Elise.

You're so reflective, and warm.

You really pulled me in.

Thank you. That means a lot.

: Snowball fight?

- It's on! - Don't you do it!

- Watch! - Oh!

That's their thing.

They're so competitive.

Yeah, I... definitely noticed Daniyal's competitive.

Hey, hey, hey.

- Thank you. - I wanted to ask you,

how did you meet Daniyal?

Oh, I um...

I met him through this podcast thing.

- Oh. - A little bit ago.

And then, I approached him for this project.

I would've thought you've known each other

for a much longer time.

No, no. But that feeling is great for the podcast.

Hmm.

Hey, dear! Have some chocolate for you.

- Hi. - Hey!

Tell Mom... tell Mom to come over.

I'm gonna go check on your dad.

- Okay. - Thanks, see ya later.

I just wanted to thank you for everything.

I mean, my parents are having such a wonderful time.

And that luxury apartment that you got us is unbelievable.

It's been fun for me too, so...

Oh, good! Good. Listen, um...

There you go, darling.

Can I pick your brain for a minute,

- just woman to woman? - Sure.

As you know, my boyfriend, Cliff, is coming back

- on Christmas Eve and... - Right.

...really excited to see him, I just...

I'm a little conflicted, too.

These past few days, I've been having a strange

twinge of feelings for Daniyal.

I mean, we've known each other 30 years.

Why now, out of the blue?

I mean, it's understandable. Daniyal's a great guy.

Despite always having to be right.

No, but if I'm being honest,

today, you two looked like you were in a rom-com.

Right? That's exactly what I'm saying. I...

Is it possible that I've overlooked true love

for all this time?

I mean, isn't this like, a classic love story?

You know, but then I think of Cliff, and I...

I get that rollercoaster feeling in my stomach,

you know, and he's only been gone a few days

and I... already miss him.

Geez, that-that sounds like a real love triangle.

What do I do?

Oh... well,

it must be hard for you to judge,

having one of these men here and not the other,

and you know, all this warm,

holiday celebration kind of makes it uneven.

- Right. - How about seeing if Cliff

can come back early?

I mean, it's a shame he should miss all of this, right?

Yeah! Yeah, it's worth a try.

Gosh, okay. Oh, this is off the record, right?

Of course! I-I don't even have my recording equipment set up.

I... um...

And even if I did, I...

I wouldn't put anything on the podcast

you asked me not to.

Thank you, Elise. Seriously, thank you.

Of course.

Girls, here's your hot chocolate!

Wait up! I'm coming!

Oh, uh... here I come.

Let's get these snowshoes off and go shopping!

Okay, folks. See ya later tonight!

Thank you.

I still think this is madness.

You think ice cream is exclusively a summer thing.

I disagree.

Can't we just go and eat it inside?

- Where it's warm? - That would defeat the purpose.

At 22 degrees outside, it's colder than the ice cream.

We don't have to worry about it melting all over our hands.

We can take our time and enjoy it. No panic.

Okay.

- Mm! - Mm! This is good!

That's beside the point.

Today went well, don't you think?

Yeah! Although, I feel like we're losing momentum.

We should really be doing something right now

to get you and Tanya together.

I also feel like we should be ratcheting up tension.

You know? Like, if Cliff were here,

we'd do something like an arm wrestling contest.

Arm wrestling contest?

That doesn't sound like your style.

I think we're thinking about this too hard.

We should take a break.

But that doesn't sound like your style.

Sometimes it helps to not focus on the end result so hard.

Distance equals perspective.

Let your mind drift.

What, is that from,

some kind of self-care blog?

No.

I actually came up with it for a cruise campaign.

It still applies, though.

You don't seem very eager.

Are you having second thoughts?

No. It's just sometimes

clearing your mind leaves room for a solution.

Ibuprofen ad.

Oh, you got some...

Oh, no. See?

That's user error. Don't blame the temperature.

So, how'd you get into advertising?

My parents are in advertising.

They're the Khan in Khan and Clark.

- Right. - Do you wanna know a secret?

Sure.

There's no Clark.

What?

It's just a name they added to sound more formidable.

Oh, okay.

I actually got the firm a Sous Vide pitch.

- It's in three days. - Wait, is that the cooking app?

- Mm-hmm! - Wow, impressive!

- Thank you. - Good luck!

My parents are running the London office

and I'm in New York trying to keep the company revived

and relevant.

They're a little stuck in their ways.

Is that why you never spend Christmas together?

I mean, with all the year-end work,

it's practical. It's a given.

I guess in my family,

our tradition is not spending Christmas together.

And you're okay with that?

I mean, since you have the Schultzes.

Not really.

But I don't know how I would turn that around.

Aren't you the one who works in the field

about making people want things

they didn't even know they wanted?

Oh, I have a pitch for you.

How about you just invite them?

Hmm? After all, you're developing

all these New York Christmas skills.

Well, what about you? What are you doing

after the podcast is done?

Are you heading home for the holidays? Let

me guess, California.

No... Arizona?

Can we just put a pin in that,

just for now?

Okay.

How 'bout this?

You show me your favorite New York Christmas tradition.

It doesn't have to be in a guide book

or even part of the podcast.

Just... yours.

All right. Let's go.

- Okay! - Okay.

I hope she's still there.

Lola! Am I too late?

Oh, we sold out. But

I set a box aside for you.

And was actually going to drop it by.

Thank you so much, Lola.

I-I've been busy with a work project.

Actually, Lola, this is Daniyal.

- Hi. - My current podcast subject.

We're doing a podcast on love and Christmas.

That seems worthwhile.

- Well, nice to meet you, Daniyal. - It's nice to meet you, too.

I've been coming here for these Christmas cookies

for uh... for a long time.

Let me guess, she did a podcast about you?

Oh, no. My sister. A champion barrel racer.

- Wow! - One of my favorites.

Well, you probably say that to everyone.

I'm hoping to be a favorite, too.

We'll see. Okay, thank you, Lola.

- You're welcome. - Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

- Bye. - Bye.

Where are we going now?

It's a surprise!

Surprise, surprise.

My mom and I used to live up north and every year,

sometime around Christmas,

we'd drive down and go to Helena's Bakery

to get these special Christmas cookies.

And let me guess, you both would come

to this bench and eat these cookies.

Um... no, actually.

We walked down this main street so many times,

and somehow never saw this park.

Then, two years ago,

I was already living in the city and um...

it was-was the year my mom passed away.

I came down to get the cookies

around our usual time and uh...

I came across this park.

Clear as day.

It's been here since the 1800s but...

sometimes I feel like she left it for me.

If... if that make sense.

It does.

- These are delicious! - I know, right?

To me, they taste like being a child at Christmas.

So, now every year,

I sit here and eat our favorite cookies,

listen to my mom's favorite music, and...

stare at the stars.

That's so poetic.

You should put it in a podcast.

Oh, no, I... try to keep myself out of the podcast.

Anyway, that's...

that's not really interesting.

I...

Didn't you recently tell me

that everyone's journey is interesting?

We're getting off track.

Off track, off what?

The mission. The-the podcast. You and Tanya.

Right, okay.

But by running through the park in snowshoes,

it doesn't give you and Tanya a chance to...

take a step closer.

Look into each other's eyes.

What are some...

quieter, indoor activities you could do?

Uh, they like game nights.

Great! All cozy on the couch.

You know, we should do that tomorrow night.

- We're running outta time. - Well, wait.

Thank you for sharing this with me.

- It's nothing. - No, that's not true.

Thank you.

Okay.

- You can't see! - Mine are done, mine are done.

Thank you. Oh.

Oh, Daniyal, pose.

- Sure. - Oh, uh, yeah.

Oh, look at...

Oh! Look at that. So cute.

- It is. - Hey, Fred,

when you upload those pictures, would you mind

sending me your favorites?

They'll be great for the podcast blog.

Could you send them to me, too?

Oh, of course. See that, Patty? High demand.

Yes, I heard that Fred.

Oh, I love celebrity Guess Who?

Oh wait, don't we need an even number for that?

What happens when Tanya gets here?

Yeah, I can sit this one out. I probably should anyway.

Oh, absolutely not!

We'll have three on one team, and then, Daniyal and Elise,

you'll be on a team together. That's fair.

- Hmm. - So, Elise,

what are you doing on the actual holiday?

Well, after I post the podcast,

I'm gonna make my mom's cornbread stuffing.

- Oh! - If... I can figure it out.

And then, curl up on my couch and watch

A Christmas Carol, and Rudolph, and--

Well, you can join us.

Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, the whole shebang.

Sure.

Thank you so much for the invite

but I wouldn't want to be in the way of anything.

What on earth

would you be in the way of?

Hi, everyone. I have a surprise...

Everyone, meet Cliff!

- Oh! - He came early!

What a great surprise. Hi, darling.

- Oh. - Hi, Mom.

- Hi. - This is my mom, Patty.

- I'm Fred. - Good to meet you.

- Ah! - Cliff, this is my dad, Fred.

- Cliff, great to meet you. - Hi, Cliff.

So nice to meet you.

This is Daniyal.

- So nice to meet you, Cliff. - Yeah, you as well.

I've heard a lot of good things about you.

Likewise.

Still not as much conflict as I'd like.

But my main question is,

how do we bring the big love triangle to the surface?

Actually, that's very much in the works.

Last night, Cliff arrived early.

Everyone was surprised. Big twist.

He seems like a worthy opponent.

Tensions will surely rise.

I know it definitely threw Daniyal back

into competition mode.

What are you talking about?

What are you talking about?

I'm talking about the love triangle

between Daniyal, Tanya, and you.

It is delightfully clear

in all of the footage I listened to.

All your little protestations about how they're not

right for each other. Those are some good breadcrumbs.

I don't really...

I don't... I don't know what you're talking about.

Denial. Oh, it's brilliant.

Use it. Uh, by the way,

given the rushed nature of all of this,

I am not gonna have time to go over this

before you have to send it into Kevin.

So, I am trusting you.

Do not let me down.

Yes, ma'am.

These white lies are piling up.

This family is wonderful

and this podcast is a whole trick on them.

And top of that,

I'm the one who encouraged Tanya to invite Cliff out early.

Which was a complete betrayal to Daniyal.

The last thing I want.

Yeah, that's a lot to keep track of.

Ball, please.

You know, before that,

at least we were in it together.

We were on the same team.

Well, does this other love triangle exist?

I have noticed a different energy about you lately.

I mean, there might...

have been a moment where it could've existed,

but things went another way.

Okay. So, what are you gonna do?

The best thing to do is take a step back

and go back to Janice's plan A.

I'm gonna help Daniyal get the girl and...

that'll be better for everyone.

Except maybe Cliff.

Who seems like a great guy, honestly.

And what about you?

I get to keep my podcast.

You know how much that means to me.

I actually have our next activity planned.

Like a grand finale.

- Well, tell me! - Carriage rides

through Central Park.

♪ Stars and snowflakes everywhere ♪

- Hey, guys. Guys! - Yeah!

How about a picture of you? You and the horse.

Cheese!

Why didn't I think of this?

Quintessential New York.

Patty and Fred are gonna love this.

Okay, I am gonna do everything I can

to get you and Tanya in one of those carriages alone.

And then, I think it's finally time to speak from the heart.

Let her know how you feel, huh?

Let's secure your spot.

Why are you acting so weird?

Huh? No, um,

I-I am just focused.

Our deadline is fast approaching.

Don't you wanna get the girl?

I guess. Yes, of course.

All right, everyone.

Today I am taking the reins. Pun intended.

To make everything more streamlined,

I have created carriage assignments.

So, carriage number one,

Patty, Fred, and Cliff.

Great chance to get to know each other.

So, carriage number two is Tanya and Daniyal. Great!

Um, what about you, Elise?

Oh, uh, no, I-I'm gonna stay here.

More room overall. It's better.

But the carriages seat up to four.

- Yes. But... - Yeah.

...everyone should be able to stretch out. Enjoy.

Well, either way, wouldn't Cliff and Tanya

like to sit together? Since he just got in yesterday.

I mean, I certainly don't mind riding

- with you lovely folks. - Nor do I!

I can do it.

Oh, why don't we do rock, paper, scissors?

Great.

- I'm in. - Oh, great.

- Yeah, see. - Ah-ha-ha.

- Oh. - Guess I got it.

- Hey! - Hey!

Come on.

- Elise, you can come with us. - Okay.

- Okay. - Okay.

- Okay. - Bye.

Ha!

- Bye! - Mwah! Mwah!

Your carriage is right behind.

Take pictures!

So um, you two

have known each other since first grade?

Yeah. We grew up around the corner from each other.

Christmas has always been a big deal with the family.

And me too.

Oh, I meant to say,

it was so nice of your family to make me a stocking.

No, that was us.

Me and Elise.

We did it for the podcast.

Um, not that they wouldn't make one for you.

Yeah, I'm sure if we were at home,

my mom would've made you one.

Oh yeah, I'm sure, too. I mean, I have one.

So um, you and Elise are together, right?

- Together? - I uh... saw her

fix your lapel.

Uh, looked a little intimate. Just assumed.

Elise is just here recording the podcast.

- Oh. - Yeah, they're...

they're not an item.

- No. - Right.

Well, either way,

I look forward to listening to the podcast.

Well, I did tell everyone

you were a Christmas guy. Hmm?

Yeah. It's true.

Such a gentleman.

- Good sir. - Uh, you go first.

No, I insist.

: Come on.

Oh.

I know, I feel like we're finally doing this.

After all these years. Yeah.

- Oh! - Oh, my God. It's red!

I know!

Was that a cardinal?

It's so beautiful.

Oh yeah, there's beauty all around us

if you're looking close enough.

This is amazing.

- My pleasure, man. - Really?

So, here we are in beautiful Central Park,

having just done the classic Christmas carriage ride.

I get a feeling Patty and Fred enjoyed it.

Oh!

They are nodding emphatically.

Now, since I have Patty and Fred to myself

for a minute, what are your thoughts on Cliff?

Well, I think we like him.

Oh, I think so, too.

He seems considerate, and-and genuine.

Oh, and they seem to adore each other.

What do you think, Elise?

I suppose I'm curious to see

how Daniyal fits into all of this?

I can't help but notice

how Tanya and Daniyal seem so close.

We've gone through our phases of hope for those two.

Daniyal is one of our

favorite people. But at some point,

we realized how awful it would be if they dated

and it didn't work out,

and then, he wasn't in our life at all.

Yeah, we've realized at some point

that if they were gonna end up together,

they would have to figure it out.

But isn't that the most classic of stories?

An epic love story spanning decades?

Well, I think Tanya and Cliff seem to be a great match.

I think there is a perfect match

out there for Daniyal.

Somewhere.

Tomorrow's Christmas Eve eve.

Obviously you couldn't make your move in the carriage

with Cliff there, so tomorrow will have to be your day.

Okay.

You know, maybe we can even find a better grand gesture.

Something to do with the Empire State Building.

Right now, all I need is an easygoing interview

before we wrap up. We can...

talk about the anticipation.

Speculate about how things might go down.

Ooh, um...

I... I... I need to check something.

Hey.

All good?

Yeah. Sorry, I have this project.

There's a few of my mom's recipes she didn't write down,

so I'm trying to figure them out before I forget.

The cider's one of them. And tonight is spice cake.

Smells amazing. It'll be nice while we're recording.

Right. Um... okay, you can just pull

this chair up and... we'll get started.

Oh, I already saw.

Are you not an expert

on all things Christmas in New York?

No. I uh...

I mostly stay in and... and do things like this.

Though, the cookies and park in Little Italy, that's...

that's real.

That was my favorite part.

You know, a wise woman once asked me,

is the Christmas spirit really something

someone can be good at?

I think she called it ephemeral?

Sounds wise.

- So, you're not upset? - No.

I mean, I'm not surprised.

We did come up with most of it together.

Yeah.

And I think we succeeded with Christmas in New York.

The Schultzes have had a magical time.

You know, whatever happens with the podcast,

whatever happens between you and Tanya,

it's clear this family really loves you.

That you'll always have a place in their lives.

I don't think you'll ever lose your spot.

Just in case that's the spot

you were really afraid of losing.

Let's figure out

your big move for tomorrow.

My big move.

The culmination of yours and Tanya's love story.

Right. Uh, well...

we have all this audio recording.

The family, Tanya, me.

You.

Maybe it's like you said that first night.

Maybe...

there's a different angle.

A different story in all of this.

I've been building it up on you getting the girl. I...

Things can shift during editing,

but there's only... there's only so much I can do.

Maybe the B love story becomes the A story.

Uh...

Hang on. I...

You know, I didn't wanna say anything,

but I was really gonna miss snowshoeing this year.

Yeah.

Daniyal's a great guy,

despite always having to be right.

You know, all this warm, holiday celebration

kind of makes it uneven.

How 'bout seeing if Cliff can come back early?

I mean it's a shame he should miss all of this, right?

Yeah. It's worth a try.

Oh, um, this is off the record, right?

Of course. I-I don't even

have my recording equipment set up.

You...

don't even have your recording equipment set up?

I... I... I didn't.

And then, I realized my phone was recording.

And I just downloaded everything.

I meant what I said. I wasn't gonna use that recording.

We're...

on the same team? Huh?

We are! Look, I can explain.

You encouraged her to invite Cliff back early

just to make things harder for me.

Look, it was a temporary lapse in judgment. Okay?

My producer kept talking about a love triangle,

and creating drama, and I was confused.

No, wait a sec!

I forgot I had even told her that.

And then, he showed up and...

Either way, I knew I had made a mistake

and I immediately went back to our original plan.

The one we agreed on.

Where we were on the same team.

I didn't wanna lie to you.

Besides, didn't we just agree the story changed?

If I did make it harder for you to get the girl,

that girl...

does that even matter now?

Yes.

Because...

I don't trust you.

I'm not recording any more of this podcast. I'm done.

And by extension, so are the Schultzes.

I know we signed releases.

I can't do anything about that.

But if you do put this out in the world, please...

don't make fools out of this family.

I would never do that.

I don't know, he's right. How could he trust me?

Well, did you tell him how you feel?

Yeah.

No, I'm... almost.

We were talking about the B love story,

before it all got obliterated.

And now the podcast is ruined.

Well, I suppose Janice finally got some of that drama

she always wanted.

I can't decide

whether to drop it and cut my losses,

or try to salvage something.

I don't know what's worse for the Schultzes?

I mean, having that all have been for nothing,

or airing a podcast where they're being fooled?

Either way, I-I don't even know how I'd structure it.

There's no conclusion and all the characters dropped out.

Ah-ah-ah, not all.

Oh, not you, too.

Listen, like it or not, you're in the story, my friend.

And it's worth looking into. Isn't it?

Might this be the way into telling the kind of story

you wanted to tell anyway?

If this is about

the Christmas spirit flowing

from your heart and your gut,

then I guess my question is,

why do I need your help?

I'm like your coach, or tour guide. Concierge?

You know, regardless, we're on the same team.

Okay.

Hmm.

Thanks for meeting me.

Oh. Oh, you look serious.

Okay. Is it the pitch presentation?

No. I wanted to let you know

that the podcast has been cancelled.

Or it might still be produced

but we're no longer doing anymore recording.

Oh, that's too bad. I... I really liked Elise.

Also, I have a confession to make.

There was a secret angle to the podcast.

On the surface, it was about me showing you and your family

an amazing New York Christmas.

But it was really about me... winning your heart.

I agreed to it because when Christmas plans changed

and Cliff came in the picture,

and then, you got raspberry on your chin, I-I panicked

that I had overlooked this unrealized

romantic love between us.

And then, I became thoughtlessly competitive

and I was terrified of being replaced.

And?

Then... it wasn't the case.

There are no unrealized feelings.

We're friends.

We always have been.

It's okay. Because the same questions

came up for me for a moment.

It would've been a classic love story, I guess.

Yeah. But not ours.

No.

Is that why there's no more podcast?

No, Elise and I had a disagreement.

Oh. That's too bad.

I feel really badly for deceiving your parents.

I understand if they're angry at--

I mean, is it that terrible of a lie?

They both had a wonderful time, right?

- I know I did. Hmm. Cheers. - Cheers, buddy.

This chestnut guy

is the best kept secret in New York City.

He's always moving from location to--

Hey, hey!

Hey.

How's it goin'?

I am not sure

if I'm tearing down the rom-com or celebrating it.

- Hmm. - Not sure if this is the best

or worst idea I've ever had.

Well, I bought some Thai. Enough for lunch and dinner.

Thank you.

So, I'm heading out this afternoon.

What do you have planned

for after you turn it in tomorrow?

Probably cook. Watch some movies.

Definitely staying off the internet and social media

'cause I won't wanna know.

Do you hope he will listen?

I don't know yet.

Okay, well good luck,

Merry Christmas, and I love you.

I love you.

Oh, okay. You're the best.

Take care of yourself, okay? I'll see ya in a bit.

Bye!

Now that I see this executed,

I don't like it. This-this line down the middle.

Feels like a barrier.

I'm just finishing up some meetings at the café,

but when I get back to the office,

let's go with the other version, the elf and reindeer reviews.

Plan A. Quirky connections.

Thank you so much for joining us on this Christmas Eve eve.

Do we have a fun idea for you.

Let's imagine that this elf is sneaking away

from the workshop to go to a gingerbread cook-off

with his best friend, Blitzen.

And of course, these characters

are interchangeable and flexible.

And as far as commercials go,

we were thinking there's always a bit of fun to be had

when we license a Christmas classic

and add our own lyrics to it.

: Sous Vide night.

That's gonna be stuck in everyone's head.

- Uh, pleasantly stuck. - Bryan is a fan.

- He's a huge fan. - I'm sorry,

weren't we talking about connection last time?

Oh-oh, yeah. These two are connecting

through their phones, which is the promise of the app.

Yeah, I-I suppose what I'm saying is...

I don't feel connected to them.

Yeah. I can see that.

And no offense, but you don't really feel connected to it.

I suppose that when you think of connection and Christmas,

the first thing that comes to mind is family.

Which seems obvious enough.

But the definition of family is so broad,

that when I try to think of visuals for family, I...

I'm stumped.

Um... like, hold on a sec.

Like, do we compose a picture

of a standard nuclear family over dinner?

My Christmas family growing up was my neighbors.

Some people's families are their friends,

their co-workers.

Some people's families live far away.

I recently met someone who was using cooking

as a means to celebrate and connect with her mother,

who's no longer with us.

Who she misses so much.

How could we even begin to capture that connection?

It really is the ephemeral,

the unexpected moments in between,

that hold all the magic.

And it's hard for someone in advertising to admit that...

it's difficult to construct those.

I wish I had put something better together for you.

Better luck next time.

See this...

is what I'm talking about when I saw alive and raw.

Let's touch base after the new year?

Let's get going, boys!

Thank you!

Merry Christmas.

What was that?

Let's get started!

And that's how this narrator,

despite her best efforts,

fell into the narrative, and also into love.

Okay.

Hey, Dad!

Took a little quick thinking on my part,

but I think I really nailed that Christmas inspiration.

Speaking of which, I have a proposal.

We never spend Christmas together,

and I think we should.

You guys should fly out next year.

You know, I recently became an expert

on the New York Christmas experience.

And I could be your guide.

It would mean a lot to me.

So... let me know.

And Merry Christmas Eve.

Oh.

Um...

Here we go.

Hmm. Elise.

Hi! Janice. You texted in all caps.

Yes, I did. I was very excited.

- Oh. - Podcast is already

trending on social media.

Seems to be getting a lot of listeners.

It was so clever of you to bring in that,

"Live Life Winning" call.

I just finished listening to it.

Oh, all of it? Already?

Yeah, I listen to most things at 2.5 speed.

It is very invigorating.

And-and what did you think?

It's kinda like when restaurants put bacon

in ice cream, or rosemary in whiskey drinks.

At first, you're like, "Ooh, what?"

And then, you're like, "Oh, okay.

I guess some people like this kinda thing."

Okay, look, it's clear that this kind of storytelling

is not my thing,

but I still felt compelled to listen to it.

Especially since I made a cameo.

I see you took my love triangle note.

Good work. I don't know if it's me

or if it's all this Christmas spirit,

but I think you should keep "Life and the Like" going.

And in the new year,

we should look at you heading your own department.

Seeing as you're so good at this sort of thing.

We should maintain some variety, I suppose.

It's Christmas, after all.

That would be great!

Excellent! Merry Christmas!

Oh... Merry Christmas.

Rosemary.

Oh my gosh.

- And what do you contribute? - I did the shopping.

- Oh, there it is. - Ho, ho, ho!

- Oh, hi! - Hey!

- Good morning. - Hey, Daniyal!

You're here!

Oh, let me take your coat.

Thank you.

And I've got your place right here.

Hmm.

Good morning, Cliff.

Merry Christmas Eve, Daniyal.

Merry Christmas Eve.

Sorry about...

It's okay. I mean, can't exactly blame you.

So, how'd the pitch go yesterday?

- We got the account! - Yes!

- Oh, that's great. - And-and actually, Fred,

I ended up using your photos,

which were essential for the success of the pitch.

Did you hear that, guys? Essential.

Yes, we heard, Fred.

Hmm.

I have to say, it just feels strange

not having Elise here recording everything.

Mm-hmm.

Have you guys listened to the podcast yet?

I-I saw that it was posted online.

We decided we'd listen to it on our drive home.

Post-Christmas. In case it's upsetting.

It's Elise.

Would you guys really think it's gonna be upsetting?

Yeah, I probably won't listen to it at all.

- Let's eat! - Yeah, okay.

- Here, Fred. - Oh, looks wonderful.

- Have some berries, Daniyal. - Ooh, my favorite!

- Oh, yeah! - Thanks, Mom.

This looks unbelievable.

Hi, it's Bonnie. Leave a message.

Hi, Bonnie.

You're-you're probably out of range, or with your family,

but uh...

I just wanted to tell you, I figured out the cider.

Rosemary. Just tiny spring.

Anyway, I just...

I just wanted to share that with someone.

So, there you go.

Cheers.

Cheers, Mom.

I suppose I'll let the city help me celebrate.

♪ I hear those sleigh bells ringing ♪

♪ And the carolers singin' ♪

♪ But all I can think of is you ♪

♪ Your love is all I require ♪

♪ So let's build up a fire ♪

♪ And we'll chase away those holiday blues ♪

♪ Baby, don't you see that you were meant for me ♪

♪ So just hold me tight ♪

♪ And we'll have a Merry Christmas tonight ♪

You look really happy.

I am! And surprised.

My mom and dad are coming in for Christmas next year.

Well, they'll have

a wonderful guide.

Thank you.

I have a confession.

I know Fred said that we hadn't listened to the podcast.

Well, I may have listened to bits and pieces

when I could sneak away.

It's really good.

I skipped to the last episode

because I had to know how it ends.

You might wanna listen to it.

I don't think I'm up to it.

Also, where would I find the time?

Daniyal, it's six 40-minute episodes.

You skip the ads, sorry,

it's under three and a half hours.

It's trending on social media.

Kris Kringle.

It all started with a man

who called himself Kris Kringle.

I'm going to stick with that moniker

to protect all involved.

Actually... wait. I-I need to go further back.

As many of you know,

for years I've been doing this podcast in my own,

I'll admit it, safe, storytelling style.

Frankly, he drove me nuts. He asked for my help

and then rejected it, being constantly competitive.

He insulted my Christmas Manhattans,

argued with every little thing like arguing was a reflex.

But I should remind you, it was only fair

since I actually had no idea what I was doing.

But when they were snowshoeing,

I saw such closeness between them.

Perhaps it wasn't even a storytelling strategy for me

to have Tanya invite Cliff back early.

Maybe I was the person

who subconsciously didn't want him to succeed

at getting the girl.

I'm not sure I can identify when I first caught feelings.

But when we arrived at that window with the couple dancing,

the thought that popped in my head was,

"That should be us."

Editing this podcast is like going back in time

and shaping events.

It made me wish I could alter so many actual things.

Lying to Kris Kringle.

I wish I had leaned my head in

and kissed him in that park in Little Italy.

If there's a lesson here, at least for me,

it's let yourself into the narrative

because that's how this narrator,

despite her best efforts...

Hi.

Merry Christmas Eve.

Um...

how'd you know to find me here?

Well, it was either here or Rockefeller Center.

My parents are coming in for Christmas next year.

They already bought their tickets.

Daniyal, that's great news.

I took your advice.

Thank you.

So, how'd it go with the Schultzes?

Well, everybody knows everything...

but it's okay.

And Tanya?

We're still friends,

as we've always been.

What were you listening to?

This... really compelling podcast.

Everyone's been raving about it.

So, it's not a boring podcast?

No.

It's hard to be bored when you're in the story.

And there's a certain way you want it to end.

The end is still uncertain.

Ambiguous, I mean.

No... it's not.

Uh... are you gonna get that?

It's Patty.

She says, "If you two lovebirds are free,

they still haven't had dessert yet."

We should go.

♪ It's cold outside but it's nice and warm in here ♪

♪ And it's even warmer when you're near ♪

♪ On this snowy Christmas Eve ♪

♪ So stay with me as we wait for Santa's sleigh ♪

♪ We'll share this holiday ♪

♪ Together, you and me ♪

♪ I'll keep you warm ♪

♪ As that north wind starts to blow ♪

♪ I cannot fight this urge ♪

♪ To get you under that mistletoe ♪

♪ So hold me close and stay with me tonight ♪

♪ We'll finally get this right ♪

♪ I'm sure that you'll agree ♪

♪ Let's raise a glass and get cozy by the fire ♪