Is Saying No to His Kids on Our First Date a Recipe for Disaster? You Won't Believe What Happened Next!

Gail Rudnick and Kim Murstein, the dynamic duo behind the popular podcast series “Excuse My Grandma,” are stepping into a new role as advice columnists for The New York Post. Known for their candid and often humorous discussions, the pair are set to tackle everything from family disputes to the intricacies of modern romance, providing tough-love truth that resonates with listeners and readers alike.

Their approach to advice is refreshingly straightforward, addressing topics that many might shy away from. As native New Yorkers, both Gail and Kim bring unique perspectives to their discussions, which is especially relevant in a cultural landscape where personal issues are often treated with nuance and sensitivity. They are ready to dive into the complexities of human relationships, with the understanding that no topic is too taboo.

“Dear Excuse My Advice,” one reader wrote in, sharing a conundrum faced by many in today’s dating scene. This newly divorced woman in her 50s was cautiously re-entering the dating world and had planned a low-pressure lunch with a man she had been speaking to. However, when his nanny canceled, he asked if he could bring his children along. The reader was left wondering: does modern dating really allow for kids to enter the equation on a first date, and how can she gracefully decline?

Gail and Kim discussed the issue at length, with Grandma Gail asserting the importance of boundaries. “You know, I think if it’s a first date, I honestly would say, ‘You know what. I’m sure your children are great, but I don’t really want to include them,'” she suggested. Kim agreed, emphasizing the need for careful wording. “The sentiment should be, ‘Oh no problem that your nanny canceled. You spend time with them, and we’ll just reschedule a date that works for both of us.’”

Gail added, “If you had been dating the person for several months, then it’s no big deal. But not on a first or even a second or third date.” They likened the situation to asking if one could bring their parents along on a first date—a clearly awkward scenario. The underlying message was clear: establishing a connection between two adults should take precedence before introducing children into the mix.

This situation highlights the evolving norms of dating culture, especially for those navigating the landscape post-divorce or following significant life changes. The idea that children should be incorporated into early dating experiences can be seen as an unnecessary complication, especially given the potential emotional stresses that could arise for both the adults and the kids involved.

In another poignant submission, a reader lamented the complexities of grief after losing her elderly mother. This adult daughter felt her grief was minimized by the world moving on around her. “How do you grieve when the world doesn’t pause around you?” she asked.

Gail responded by validating the enduring nature of grief. “You’ll always grieve. I mean, you never forget your mother,” she said, encouraging the reader to focus on the positive memories. “Remember all the wonderful things that you did together.” This advice reinforces the idea that while life continues, the emotional impact of losing a loved one remains profound and personal.

Kim also emphasized the importance of expressing one's feelings, suggesting it’s perfectly fine to inform others that one is grieving. “If you're really struggling, I think it’s okay to say to people, ‘I’m grieving right now,’” she noted. This open communication fosters understanding and empathy from those around you, allowing for a supportive environment during tough times.

Gail even referenced a show called Shrinking, where a character grapples with the loss of her mother. The father’s advice to the character—that she can’t “play the dead mother card anymore” two years later—strikes a chord about the balance of allowing oneself to grieve while also moving forward in life. This interplay between grief and the expectations of society is a delicate dance many face.

Gail and Kim’s advice not only reflects their wisdom but also serves as a reminder that navigating personal relationships and emotions can be complicated, especially in today’s world. Their commitment to tackling these tough issues with honesty and compassion makes them a valuable resource for readers seeking guidance in an ever-changing social landscape.

To submit your own questions for advice, you can reach out to them through nypost.com/ema. Whether it’s relationship dilemmas, family conflicts, or personal challenges, Gail and Kim are ready to lend their unique perspectives.