Sip Happens 1x03: Wine Before Noon, Feelings After (Don't Do Me Like That)

Welcome to episode 3 of Sip Happens!

The third chapter of our Cougar Town rewatch is where the show really stops winking at a “cougar” premise and starts building a community you actually want to live in. We dig into why “Don’t Do Me Like That” feels like a tonal pivot: rapid-fire cuts, tighter jokes, and character beats that move from cringe to care without losing their bite. From a late-night Laurie SOS to a landlocked boat that somehow carries the whole ensemble, the cul-de-sac finally clicks into place.

We unpack the ten-date countdown and what it says about performing intimacy versus actually wanting it, then follow Grayson into a multi-night tangle with Candee, yes, that’s Jennifer Holland, where flippant detachment meets accountability. Over at Bobby’s boat, Travis names the thing most kids avoid: his dad embarrasses him. That honesty hurts, but it seeds a tender exchange that shows how this show earns its heart. Ellie, our queen of weaponized wisdom, drags Jules to the beach and reframes “helping everyone” as avoidance, pushing her toward a small, brave act of self-care that changes everything.

Expect the wax-room chaos, Barb’s immortal one-liner, and a time-capsule check that calls out what aged awkwardly and what still sparkles. We crown our Big Carl moment, hand out the Cul-de-Sac MVP, and spotlight the locations, kitchen, bar, boat, that turn into rituals for the series. If you love ensemble comedy, character-driven humor, and rewatchable comfort, this breakdown maps where the show finds its groove and why it keeps you pouring another glass.

If this recap hit the spot, follow and subscribe, share it with your Cougar Town crew, and drop your favorite quote from Episode 3. Ratings and reviews help other fans find the rewatch, what should we spotlight next week?

Let me know over on Instagram @SipHappensWithJaye

Disclaimer: This podcast is fan-made and not affiliated with or endorsed by ABC, Disney, or the creators of Cougar Town. All images and references are used under fair use for commentary and parody purposes.