Ep 2. Beauty is Only Spanx Deep

In The New Adventures of Old Christine season 3 episode 2 titled "Beauty Is Only Spanx Deep," Christine's younger brother, Matthew, comes to visit and announces that he is quitting medical school to pursue a career as a chef. Christine is initially supportive of his decision, but concerns for his financial stability lead her to set Matthew up on a date with a wealthy dermatologist she knows.

Meanwhile, Richard and New Christine struggle to discipline their son, Ritchie, when he begins acting out in public. They enlist Christine's help, but their differing parenting styles create tension between the three adults.

As Matthew prepares for his date, Christine takes him shopping for a new outfit and introduces him to her friend, Barb, who owns a spa. Barb offers Matthew a free treatment called "Spanx for Men," which promises to sculpt and tone his body. Though hesitant at first, Matthew agrees to try it out.

The date itself turns out to be disastrous, as the dermatologist proves to be extremely demanding and critical of Matthew's career aspirations. Meanwhile, Ritchie's behavior continues to worsen, and Christine impulsively decides to take him out of school to teach him herself.

Back at the spa, Matthew's "Spanx for Men" treatment goes awry when he accidentally gets covered in mud, causing Christine and Barb to panic and try to scrub him clean before his date. Despite their efforts, the mud cannot be removed, and Matthew is forced to show up to the date looking disheveled.

The episode concludes with Richard and New Christine reconciling their parenting differences and agreeing to work together to discipline Ritchie. Matthew ultimately realizes that he is happy pursuing his passion for cooking, and Christine learns to accept and support her brother's choices.

Overall, "Beauty Is Only Spanx Deep" explores themes of family, career aspirations, and parenting, while also providing plenty of laughs and hijinks along the way.