Episode 2 of "Nobody Wants This" revisits the temple's hallowed grounds, where Noah's mother's disapproval looms large. She dismisses Joanne as a mere "shiksa," peppering the air with a barrage of queries, while Noah yearns to escape and reunite with Joanne. However, he finds himself ensnared in a web of well-wishers, each delaying his departure.
Outside, the phone rings, and Morgan's voice cuts through the air, emphasizing the urgency to revamp their podcast for Spotify's platform. Noah's eagerness to flee is palpable, yet Morgan's persuasive charm convinces Joanne to precede him in their rendezvous. Morgan's demeanor is laced with edginess, and amidst this chaos, we encounter Sasha, Noah's eccentric elder brother, who impulsively joins them for a nightcap.
As Joanne syncs her phone to the dashboard, a comedic twist unfolds as her text messages, inadvertently revealing Noah's Jewish identity, are read aloud. Laughter ensues, lightening the mood.
At the bar, the ladies' curiosity is piqued as they decipher the meaning of "shiksa," while Morgan unleashes her wit on Sasha at the jukebox, surprised to learn of his marital status. Noah and Joanne, meanwhile, delve into the intricacies of their podcast, sharing intimate secrets amidst the chatter.
But the evening's tranquility is shattered when Esther, Sasha's wife, storms in, demanding their immediate return. Her revelation about Noah's alleged engagement casts a shadow over the evening, reintroducing the classic misunderstanding trope.
Back at Noah's abode, a mini-intervention ensues, with his family admonishing him against pursuing Joanne. Joanne, however, is steadfast in her belief that their podcast transcends mere sexual discussions. This divergence of opinion sparks a rift between her and Morgan, though their complex bond remains the podcast's cornerstone.
Determined to mend fences, Noah seeks out Joanne, and they agree to a dinner as friends. Over their meal, Noah unburdens himself about his tumultuous relationship with Rebecca, painting her as a veritable psycho. With this clarity, he reveals how Joanne's vulnerability on the podcast unexpectedly aided him in counseling a troubled couple earlier.
As the night draws to a close, their paths diverge, but not without a tender kiss goodbye. However, Rebecca's relentless calls pull Noah back, forcing him to answer and inquire about her well-being. The episode ends on a poignant note, leaving their future relationship hanging in the balance.
