A Hilarious Return The episode kicks off with Marlo and Mary joking about their absence from each other’s lives, likening it to ghosting—a theme that threads through their conversation. They humorously explore the concept of ghosting, its different types, and how it plays into their busy lives.

The Absurdity of Being Busy Marlo and Mary dive into the definition of being busy and when it becomes a valid excuse for not communicating. They touch on the importance of mental wellbeing and how personal downtime, even if it means just sitting on the couch watching Netflix, can sometimes take precedence over social obligations. They discuss how society’s expectation of constant availability can lead to stress and miscommunication.

The Etiquette of Ghosting Marlo shares his take on the various types of ghosting—soft, silent, and half ghosting—explaining how they manifest in real-life interactions. Mary adds her experiences, highlighting how different people interpret the cessation of communication and the unspoken rules that often lead to misunderstandings.

Prank Calls and Whistle Inspectors A highlight of the episode is Marlo’s recounting of his and his partner’s prank on a scammer, involving a fake whistle inspector scenario. This story brings a light-hearted break to the discussion, showcasing their penchant for fun and mischief even in the face of annoyance.

Modern Communication Challenges The duo discusses the challenges of modern communication, from the expectations surrounding quick text responses to the frustration of managing multiple social media platforms. Marlo and Mary share their preferences and frustrations, shedding light on the absurdity of today’s communication norms.

The Evolution of Communication The conversation shifts to a broader view of communication evolution—from letters to emails, and now to texting and social media. They reflect on how these changes have impacted personal and professional interactions, often adding layers of complexity rather than simplifying communication.

Ghosting and Etiquette in the Digital Age They explore how ghosting has become a part of digital communication, discussing its implications and how different generations handle it. Marlo and Mary emphasize the importance of giving each other grace and understanding in our increasingly busy and digitally connected lives.

Engagement and Humor The episode concludes with Marlo and Mary inviting listeners to share their own experiences and absurd stories, reinforcing the interactive and community-focused nature of their show. They hint at potential future radio broadcasts and express their excitement about the journey ahead.

Conclusion This episode of The Absurdists is a delightful exploration of the absurdities in modern communication. Marlo and Mary’s humorous take on ghosting, the challenges of being perpetually busy, and their hilarious prank call stories make for an entertaining and thought-provoking listen. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of texting etiquette or just looking for a good laugh, this episode has something for everyone.

Stay tuned for more absurd adventures with Marlo and Mary, and remember to embrace the bizarre in your own life!