Is having a work wife crossing the line? Jake and Spike tackle workplace relationships
Mar 23, 2025, 5:56 AM
Jake Skorheim and Spike O'Neill talked about the importance and potential dangers of having a "work wife" on a recent episode of the Jake and Spike Show.
Is it socially acceptable to have a “work wife” or “work husband?” Jake Skorheim and Spike O’Neill talked about the importance and potential dangers of having a “work wife.”
Spike was eager to mention that his wife had suggested he find a close coworker to vent to about work stress. She pointed out that his producer, Laura, had essentially become her “work kid.”
“Sure, you have to have somebody at work to complain to and complain and commiserate with and revel and all these things,” Spike said on “The Jake and Spike Show.” “It’s funny Laura, you have become my work kid.”
Laura said that although their relationship will never be an “emotional affair,” she previously had a connection with a coworker while working as a barista. She said it became quite awkward when she met his girlfriend.
For the full discussion, listen below:
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The line between workplace bonds and emotional affairs
Jake mentioned his relationship, which began at work and has grown over the past 16 years. Everyone agreed that while it’s fine to be friends with coworkers, forming deep emotional connections with someone outside of a committed relationship can be problematic. He emphasized that he prefers to keep emotional bonds within his family, not wanting to overstep anyone’s emotional boundaries.
“I find it exhausting to connect with people emotionally on that level,” Jake said. “I save that for my wife and my kids. Other than that, I keep it pretty surface with people. I mean, I have some dear friends you invest the time into, but that’s not my territory.
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