Episodes
-
This week on a very special episode of "Friendless", join host James Avramenko as he sits down with the insightful Hannah McGregor, author and co-host of the popular podcast "Material Girls." Hannah, who penned "Clever Girl," shares her feminist analysis of Jurassic Park, diving into her unique perspective on the beloved classic.
In this in-depth conversation, Hannah opens up about her personal journey moving to Vancouver and the challenges she faced in building a community from scratch amidst social anxiety and panic attacks. James and Hannah also explore their preferences for horror genres, discuss their favourite childhood places, and the ethical complexities of zoos and museums.
Listeners will gain insight into Hannah’s ideal weekend relaxation plans, a humorous take on velociraptors in human suits, and the importance of fostering community and friendship in meaningful ways. The episode is brimming with humor, intellectual discourse, and practical advice on managing social anxiety, self-criticism, and the significance of personalized gestures in friendships.
Discover Hannah’s thoughts on friendship dynamics, and the valuable concept of emotional capacity in support networks. This episode is a rich blend of academic reflection and light-hearted banter, perfect for those looking to understand the nuances of community building and feminist perspectives on popular media.
Don’t miss Hannah’s professional insights and James' enthusiastic recommendation of "Clever Girl." Tune in to hear their candid discussion on vulnerability, societal pressures, and the transformative power of analytic essays. Be sure to check the show notes for links to Hannah’s work and other featured artists.
Links:
Follow Hannah McGregor on Instagram: @hkpmcgregor Purchase "Clever Girl" (Not from Amazon) Learn more about Hannah's workSign up for the Friendless Substack newsletter for more insights and updates!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
#FriendlessPodcast #HannahMcGregor #CleverGirl #FeministAnalysis #CommunityBuilding #EmotionalCapacity
-
🎃 Spooktacular Halloween Special 🎃
In this chilling Halloween special of Friendless, host James Avramenko dives deep into the eerie world of horror movies and books, sharing his favourite spine-tingling picks and answering listener questions. From his personal "Mount Rushmore" of horror films to freshly-released gems like "The Substance" and "Oddity", James explores the genre's creativity and its platform for marginalised voices. He also highlights psychological thrillers like "I Saw the TV Glow" and Ti West’s gripping XXX trilogy.
James delves into horror literature, recommending unsettling reads from authors like Clive Barker and Eric LaRocca, and classics like "Frankenstein" and "Salem’s Lot". Whether you love imaginative narratives or are looking for your next Halloween watch or read, this episode offers something for every horror fan.
Plus, James confronts his fear of haunted houses, shares his take on WWE entrance themes, and hints at exciting future content. Tune in for a spooktacular mix of horror love and introspective discussion, perfect for the October season! 🍂💀
Links Mentioned in the episode
Bobby Roode's Entrance Theme
Mike & Maria Kanelllis' Entrance Theme
Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
-
Missing episodes?
-
In this very special episode of Friendless, host James Avramenko tackles the age-old question: How do adults make friends?
James shares his experiences at a speed dating event, where he delved into various fascinating topics like dietetics, bird watching, biology, and insectology, highlighting the joy of listening to people speak passionately about their interests. He emphasizes the importance of speaking confidently about one’s own passions without fearing judgment and stresses that if someone doesn’t appreciate what you love, they’re not meant to be your friend.
James provides practical strategies for making friends as an adult, including leveraging technology to find social groups based on shared interests, practicing conversational skills, and breaking down social anxiety into manageable steps.
He also touches on concepts from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), a therapy designed to help manage chronic behaviours and emotional regulation. James underscores the importance of mindfulness, believing in one’s worthiness to make new connections, and the idea of the "Wise Mind"—a balance between reason and emotion.
The episode explores how to build confidence and the value of mindfulness techniques such as visualisation and breath-focused practices to stay present and manage dysregulation. James also tackles societal issues of loneliness, particularly among people under 40, and shares personal anecdotes and strategies for forming new connections in a new city.
Join James as he provides heartfelt advice, encourages self-responsibility, and promotes the significance of practicing DBT skills to foster meaningful adult friendships. Follow Friendless on Instagram and TikTok, and don't forget to give it a 5-star review and sign up for the Substack newsletter for exclusive content!
Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
-
In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko welcomes back a beloved guest, Keira Daniels. Their conversation is a delightful blend of humour, introspection, and valuable life lessons on aging, friendships, and staying connected.
James and Keira kick things off with a humorous exchange about planned bed days, setting the tone for a lively and candid discussion. Keira shares insights from her partner, emphasising the importance of understanding others in conflict without assuming drastic personality changes.
The episode delves into the significance of maintaining friendships as we age, with James reminiscing about his grandparents' long-lasting bonds and social routines. Keira brings a fresh perspective on building adult friendships through "play" and everyday conversations, highlighting the challenges and rewards of authentic connections.
As they explore work relationships versus real friendships, James shares touching stories about his grandfather's social group, the "Knights of the Round Table," and the melancholy of outliving his friends. Keira and James agree that essential friendships often require flexibility, humorously recounting their own spontaneous social activities.
The conversation also tackles complex themes like overuse of terms like "narcissist," bad data collection, agile thinking, and the importance of honest feedback in friendships. Keira emphasises resolving conflicts without ego, while James discusses the societal pressures on men regarding being wrong.
Listeners will appreciate the candid reflections on social media's role in fostering connections, the challenges of maintaining friendships, and the importance of reaching out to brighten someone's day. James and Keira's mutual admiration is palpable, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for the audience.
James wraps up the episode with gratitude towards Keira, thoughts on upcoming projects, and a heartfelt message for listeners to support the show. Don't miss this episode filled with laughter, wisdom, and the timeless value of genuine friendships.
Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
-
In this very special episode of Friendless, host James Avramenko marks his one-year sobriety milestone by delving into his journey of self-discovery, emotional regulation, and the importance of building a robust support system. James opens up about the pivotal moments that led him to embrace sobriety, including dealing with intense emotions, the struggle of social isolation, and the critical role of harm reduction.
James shares insights into his coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness and mantra meditation, the 90-second rule for emotional regulation, and tips for journaling to process feelings. He reflects on his own personal growth, acknowledging his past struggles with self-worth and co-dependency, and emphasises the transformative power of small, incremental changes over drastic overhauls.
This episode also explores the broader themes of friendship, community, and the human need for connection. James discusses the significance of proactive communication and fostering a diverse support network to avoid echo chambers. He introduces the concept of a "6 pack" of support to distribute the emotional load among trusted individuals.
Listeners will find inspirations not just in James' triumphs but also in his candid acknowledgment of ongoing challenges. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to anyone grappling with sobriety or mental health issues to reach out, seek support, and take those first small steps toward a healthier, more connected life.
Join James Avramenko for a blend of personal storytelling, practical advice, and encouraging words as he continues to navigate the complexities of emotional health and sobriety.
Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
-
In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko sits down with Tim Riel (@nerdincorrect) to explore the intricate world of community building, the realities of adult friendships, and the importance of small, thoughtful gestures in maintaining connections. Tim, a dedicated board gamer, comedian, and host of Codenames Live, opens up about managing his busy schedule filled with various projects.
They discuss the myriad challenges and joys of friendship, particularly how adult responsibilities and past experiences shape current relationships.
Listeners will gain insight into the emotional strain of outreach, the importance of community on online platforms, and the profound impact of minor acts of kindness, affectionately termed "pebbling." Tim also emphasizes the reality behind social media connections and the often unrealistic portrayals of friendship in media.
This episode provides a heartfelt discussion on the feelings of loneliness that even the most connected individuals experience, along with actionable advice on supporting friends discreetly and sincerely. As Tim shares his journey, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the small, meaningful ways we can lift each other up.
Don't miss this touching and insightful conversation on the complexities of friendship and community.
Nerd Incorrect - https://linktr.ee/nerdincorrect
Codenames LIVE! Main Cast
Brendan McKeigan: http://www.brendanmckeigan.com/
Dani Standring: https://beacons.ai/dani_standring/
Shannon Lahaie: https://www.twitch.tv/shanomen0n/
Jason Hatrick: https://twitter.com/jasonhatrick
Tavis Maplesden: https://twitter.com/TavisMaplesden
Lorenzo Patino: https://www.instagram.com/zopunny
Logan Avery Cooper: https://www.instagram.com/loganaverycooper
Sam Murdock: https://www.twitch.tv/suitedmonkeyBook Link:
Make Me A Mixtape by Jennifer Whiteford - linktr.ee/jenniferwhitefordwritesFriendless Links
Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
-
In this week's episode of Friendless, host James Avramenko kicks off a fresh deep dive series by opening up about a topic close to his heart: Imposter Syndrome. Drawing from his personal experiences and professional teaching background, James demystifies imposter syndrome by exploring what it truly is, its common triggers, and the various ways it manifests.
He shares relatable anecdotes, personal battles with imposterism, and insightful classifications of the syndrome's different forms. Emphasising the importance of self-compassion, community, and vulnerability, James offers practical strategies to work alongside these feelings, rather than against them.
From recognising the first signs to celebrating every small victory, James provides listeners with a thoughtful roadmap for navigating this pervasive experience. Tune in to discover how unconditional self-love and communal support can empower you to overcome the daunting feelings of inadequacy and fraudulence. This episode is a comforting reminder that you’re not alone in your struggles and that there is hope in embracing your authentic self.
Don't forget to subscribe to our Substack for more insights, recommendations, and James' personal reflections. Share your thoughts and suggestions with James on Instagram and TikTok @friendlesspod or email [email protected].
By popular request, we delve into:
What imposter syndrome is and how it manifests. James' personal encounters with imposter syndrome. Five categories of imposter syndrome and their characteristics. Practical advice on self-compassion, validation, and seeking support. Celebrating small wins and the impact of genuine connections.Join us in this heartfelt exploration and take the first step towards self-compassion and acceptance.
Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special comeback episode of Friendless, host James Avramenko welcomes back the talented poet and writer, jaz papadopoulos.
jaz shares their rich experiences and profound journeys from studying critical theory to thriving in a queer feminist community, and eventually entering an MFA program. Together, James and jaz delve into the intricate process behind Jaz’s verse novel "i feel that way too" from its organic beginnings to its polished final form.
The conversation shifts to discuss the liberating yet challenging aspects of living less reliant on capitalism, including details about Jaz’s garlic farming endeavours. They explore writing as a tool for both critique and affirmation, discussing influences like Edward Said and the intricate beauty of language. jaz reflects on the journey of incorporating and refining powerful quotes, tackling the complexities of copyright, and navigating the multifaceted nature of activism in a rural setting.
Tune in to hear about:
jaz's involvement in critical theory and the evolution of their creative writing. The supportive role of queer feminist communities. The creative journey of writing a verse novel. Living sustainably through garlic farming and its implications on identity and activism. The significance of language, tone, and literary influences like Edward Said. Details about jaz’s new book, upcoming tour, and their latest creative projects.Follow jaz on Instagram HERE
and read more of their work HERE
Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
-
In this exciting sneak peek into Season 7 of "Friendless", host James Avramenko returns revitalised from his summer holiday, ready to dive deep into personal growth, friendship, and community.
Celebrating Virgo season and his 37th birthday, James reflects on his nearly 11 months of sobriety and the transformative journey he's been on over the past year.
Join James as he opens up about his summer experiences, the struggles he faced, and the profound lessons he learned in self-acceptance and personal boundaries.
This episode offers a heartfelt and candid look at what to expect in the upcoming season, including a fresh mix of solo episodes and interviews that will explore deeper themes like mental health, lived experiences, and the quest for hope in chaotic times.
Get a taste of the first official episode set to launch on September 10th, featuring the return of poet jaz papadopoulos discussing their new book, "i feel that way too." James also invites listeners to engage with him more directly this season, fostering a deeper community connection through shared experiences and open dialogue.
Don't miss the rebirth of "Friendless" as it embarks on this new and invigorated journey.
Tune in now and feel the love, sweet peas!
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko wraps up Season 6 with a lively discussion on being raised by wild animals, the importance of community, and personal transformation. James humorously explores the animal kingdom, from sloths to meerkats, what mental illnesses cartoon characters have, and what type of animal he'd like to be raised by.
Listeners are invited into James' world as he candidly talks about his attachment style, mental health journey, and the complexities of self-growth. Emphasizing the importance of community support, James offers heartfelt advice on managing mental illness and the power of therapy. He reflects on the wisdom shared by diverse guests and plans to experiment with the show's format in the upcoming season, focusing on community, friendship, and intimacy.
With gratitude for six years of listener support, James announces a summer break and shares his vision for the show's future, inviting feedback and suggestions. He underscores the need for breaking down barriers of one-way intimacy in internet content and fostering an inclusive community.
Join James in this thought-provoking episode as he encourages reaching out to loved ones, embracing self-forgiveness, and being gentle with oneself.
Have a wonderful summer, and stay tuned for exciting new episodes in August!
Fun and Safety sweet peas!
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special episode of *Friendless*, host James Avramenko welcomes comedian and performer Megan Phillips.
The conversation begins with Megan's journey toward self-discovery and fostering unconditional love and trust in oneself, which she believes can extend to building healthier communities. The reflect on growing up in boundary-less homes, and highlight the lifelong importance of understanding and setting healthy boundaries, both for personal growth and in relationships.
Megan and James delve into the dynamics of friendships versus romantic relationships, the need for emotional health, and the invaluable lesson of purpose within relational contexts. They explore the nuances of fear-based thinking and the importance of avoiding manipulation in connections. Megan shares her recent triumph over her fear of roller coasters, attributing this newfound courage to inner work and self-trust.
Throughout the episode, the pair discusses the transformative power of storytelling in comedy, Megan’s artistic inspirations, and her reflections on aging, appearance, and social media. Megan’s career journey, from a love of music and dance to finding her voice in comedy, reveals her dedication to authenticity and the joy found in the arts.
Tune in for an episode packed with wisdom, humour, and genuine human connection.
Check out Megan's website at meganphillips.com
and follow her on Instagram @MegNatPhil
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special episode of Friendless, James Avramenko sits down with guest Nug Nahrgang to explore the complexities of relationships, community, and pro wrestling.
The conversation expands into the safety and understanding within a close-knit community, reminiscing about formative university years and the paradoxes of connection. The duo humorously discusses the adoption of enemies through relationships, with Nug sharing his own amusing yet insightful experiences.
Listeners get a glimpse into Nug's multifaceted career, from sketch comedy and podcasting to the inner workings of the wrestling industry. With anecdotes about meeting wrestling personalities like Eddie Kingston, Nug highlights the importance of mental health awareness and genuine support in any community.
The episode covers the impact of social media on mental well-being, the superficial nature of digital friendships, and the shifting dynamics brought about by the pandemic. Nug provides valuable advice on checking in on friends and emphasises the importance of honest communication and support.
As they navigate through stories of acting auditions, improvisation, and the pressure of living in the artistic world, James and Nug underline the significance of community and shared experiences. Concluding on a reflective note, they discuss the essence of friendship and the pursuit of recognition in their respective careers.
Join James and Nug for an engaging and heartfelt discussion about life’s highs and lows, the importance of community, and the strides toward becoming better friends to ourselves and those around us.
Check out Nug's podcast "One Dollar Words"
Follow him on Instagram
and on X
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special episode of *Friendless,* host James Avramenko is joined by the multi-talented Riel Hahn. Together, they delve into a deeply resonant conversation about artistic fulfilment, mental health, and navigating life's complexities.
They discuss Riel's ongoing battle with chronic health issues, including her life-changing experience with long COVID, which resulted in a gradual loss and regathering of her identity. Riel also opens up about finding solace and purpose in writing fiction and the inspiration she draws from her father.
The conversation explores the complexities of friendships and romantic relationships, the importance of understanding and communicating love languages, and setting healthy boundaries. Riel reflects on her investment in friendships and the nourishment these connections provide, while also touching on societal pressures and the notion of self-love.
Listeners will be captivated by stories of Riel's intricate dreams, her renewed sense of purpose, and her intricate journey of self-recovery and reparenting. The episode also features discussions on enjoying nature, birdwatching, and the soothing aspects of the game *Wingspan,* which adds a delightful layer to the conversation.
Join James and Riel as they explore the importance of living in the present, the process of healing, and the deep value of authenticity in relationships. Whether you're navigating your own challenges or seeking inspiration from others' resilience, this episode offers a heartfelt and thought-provoking narrative.
Don't forget to check out "Exquisite Corpses" on Bandcamp, and stay tuned for Riel's upcoming novel and music album.
**Highlights:**
- Prioritising artistic needs in the face of mental health challenges
- The impact of long COVID on identity and creativity
- Navigating friendships, love languages, and setting boundaries
- The journey of self-love, reparenting, and direct communication
- Finding joy in nature, birding, and the game *Wingspan*
- Upcoming projects from Riel Hahn and a temporary podcast hiatus in July
Tune in for an enlightening and emotional conversation that promises to resonate long after the episode ends.
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
Welcome to the latest episode of "Friendless" with your host, James Avramenko. In this insightful and introspective episode, James delves into the art of making genuine apologies and the importance of direct and clear communication. From outlining the six steps of a meaningful apology to discussing the impact of social media on connections, James shares wisdom on navigating relationships with authenticity and self-awareness. Join us as we explore the nuances of forgiveness, personal growth, and the value of human connection in the ever-evolving landscape of communication. Stay tuned for a blend of heartfelt reflections, humorous anecdotes, and a sprinkle of bagel-related musings, all delivered with James' signature sincerity and wit.
Check out Sorry, Sorry, Sorry (but please don't buy through the link 🩵)
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko is joined by RJ City, host of Hey! (EW). Their conversation takes them on an exploration of the dynamics of social media connections, the nuances of wrestling as an art form, and the complex interplay between public recognition and personal space.
Listeners will be treated to rich discussions where RJ shares his surprising encounters with fans and his journey in the wrestling world, reflecting on the ironic enjoyment of anonymity despite his public persona. They also dive into the emotional labor of maintaining online friendships, weighing the mixed feelings about watching old acquaintances from afar on platforms like Facebook.
Delving deeper, RJ and James address the psychological aspects of dealing with fame, self-criticism, and the continuous pursuit of peace over happiness. With a blend of humour and sincerity, they also converse about the importance of authenticity in wrestling characters, the cultural shifts in the appreciation of physical intimacy within the sport, and the broader implications on personal connections.
Wrestling fans and listeners interested in the intersections of personal identity, public life, and digital connections will find this episode both enlightening and entertaining.
Watch Hey! (EW)
Follow RJ on Instagram
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko and special guest Beau Schultz embark on a candid discussion about the nuanced essence of personal space, astrology, and the whimsical idea of reimagining deities in modern society.
Tackling both light-hearted and profound themes, the duo delves into their personal needs for solitude and the significance of having supportive partners over 'fixers.'
James opens up about his daily realities living with autism and trauma, underlining the importance of understanding one's personal space. Beau offers snippets of wisdom on finding joy in fashion and accessories, which spices up their discourse on self-expression and the acts of maturing and finding happiness.
The episode also ventures into the realm of modern mythology, proposing a society where pop culture icons like Jojo Siwa and Drake could be viewed as contemporary deities, encouraging a reflection on societal values and celebrity influence.
Sharing thrilling insights into their astrological signs, Beau and James decode the implications of their Virgo, Leo, and Cancer traits. They also touch on poignant cultural topics from the perspective of queer experiences, making sense of community dynamics and the profound engagements that social media platforms like TikTok offer in forging genuine connections.
Follow Beau on Instagram
Listen to Boy Trouble
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special April Lil' Guy wrap-up episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko offers a candid exploration into his recent diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD), providing listeners with a unique insight into the complexities of mental health. James shares the challenges and triumphs of his journey with BPD, discussing its symptoms, treatment impacts, and the emotional intricacies involved.
Come along with James as we navigate the nuanced effects of the disorder, from managing emotions to understanding interpersonal relationships. With an emphasis on compassion and self-awareness, James aims to debunk common misconceptions about BPD and other Cluster B disorders, inviting a discussion on the importance of empathy and understanding in mental health conversations.
Touching upon themes of self-love, healing, and the power of community, James also dives into his personal strategies, including engaging with a DBT workbook and the positive outcomes of new medications. Through his story, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own paths to emotional maturity and the value of unconditional support in overcoming life's challenges.
Join James in this heartfelt episode that promises to enlighten, inspire, and foster a deeper understanding of mental health complexities.
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!Don't forget to give Friendless a 5-star review and share the episode to help spread awareness and support for those navigating similar challenges!
-
In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko is joined by Sara Bynoe (actor, producer, host of Teen Angst) to dive deep into the complexities of friendship and the emotional impact of friend break-ups. Sara opens up about a painful experience with a friend who crossed a line and failed to show remorse, prompting her to reflect on the importance of setting boundaries and acknowledging the lasting effects such betrayals can have.
The conversation steers into a candid discussion about the different dimensions of emotional trauma, with James emphasising the necessity of allowing oneself to feel the repercussions fully. Both contemplate the difficult choices surrounding the potential for reconciliation after trust has been shattered.
Sara shares insights from her journey with cognitive behavioural therapy and the mental health strategies she's adopted to help navigate her responses to challenging situations. Likewise, James reveals his own path to self-understanding following a recent psych evaluation.
They further explore the essence of friendship – what it means to be a good friend, the value of kindred spirits, and the intricate dance between connection and self-preservation. Sara and James also touch upon the topics of neurodiversity, the stigma associated with psychological diagnoses, and the relationship between trauma and personality development.
Community building is highlighted as Sara discusses her role in creating inclusive spaces through her events, such as "Teen Angst". They also reflect on their own evolving criteria for cultivating meaningful friendships and the lessons they've learned from holding onto or releasing certain relationships.
Follow Sara's work through Yellow Notebook Productions HERE
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
In this very special part 2 episode, your pal James Avramenko and guest Scott Hendrickson continue their discussion on the nuanced landscape of friendship, forgiveness, and the courage to confront one's past. They candidly explore their journey of reconciliation, unpacking the impact of personal growth and the ebbs and flows that challenge even the strongest of bonds.
The episode unveils Scott's key strategies to cultivate more meaningful relationships, such as small acts of appreciation and creating spaces for open vulnerability. Engaging in a heartfelt discussion, James and Scott reflect on their own friendship's past tumultuous phases, touching upon the essential elements of mutual support and accountability that have fortified their rekindled connection.
Listeners are privy to the pair's raw and unfiltered exchange on the tightrope of respect and understanding in friendships, especially when coping with external influences like romantic relationships or conflicting viewpoints. They underscore the potent combination of love, gratitude, and honest communication as the pillars of a resilient friendship.
By delving into stories of second chances, James emphasizes the transformative power of forgiveness, both of others and of oneself, advocating for unlimited opportunities for personal redemption. Scott contributes his insights on cultivating a diverse community, reinforcing the importance of exposure to a wide array of perspectives to foster personal growth and improved mental well-being.
This episode provides practical perspectives on constructing a life rooted in empathetic connections and the individual's responsibility for self-improvement within the context of community support. As a powerful testament to the sometimes rocky road of rebuilding trust and intimacy, the dialogue between Scott and James serves as a beacon of hope for listeners faced with the challenge of mending fractured friendships.
To continue the conversation and explore more empowering content, follow "Friendless" on social media:
Read the weekly Substack!
Follow Friendless on TikTok
and on Instagram
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
-
This week on a very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko is joined by his oldest friend Scott Hendrickson to explore the multifaceted nature of friendship, the importance of authenticity, and the poignant reflections on personal growth.
James and Scott revisit the foundation of their long-standing friendship, from their shared experiences in the arts during middle school to the challenges they faced in a blue-collar, trades-driven educational system.
Scott opens up about his struggle to find a sense of community, delving into his desire to connect with various cultures and the impact of his actions on those relationships. Both reflect on the weight of intentions versus actions and the delicate balance of intent versus impact in the fabric of friendships. Central to their dialogue is the concept of friendship itself, highlighting qualities such as acceptance, support, and the shared journey of personal evolution.
The episode takes an emotional turn as they discuss the significance of reconnecting after years apart, the comedic misunderstandings surrounding identity, and the gravity of being true to oneself. They tackle complex ideas including the concept of being an "old soul," the pursuit of authenticity, and the bittersweet realization that life is a transient, shared experience of "walking each other home."
Listeners are invited to contemplate the role of emotional regulation, the perils of ideological focus, and the enduring bond of companionship through life's intricacies. This is just the first part of a two-part conversation that is sure to resonate deeply with anyone interested in the true meaning of friendship and self-discovery.
Prepare to connect with James's heartfelt storytelling, Scott's poignant reflections, and soul-stirring music that accompanies this deep exploration. Don't miss this compelling narrative on the power of human connections and the road to self-awareness.
Remember to follow "Friendless" for the concluding segment in "Scott Part 2," stay updated with our weekly Substack, and connect with us on TikTok and Instagram. Share your thoughts on the episode with a 5-star review and consider supporting the show by buying the hosts a coffee. Let's discover what it means to be truly friendless, together.
Follow Friendless on TikTok
Follow Friendless on Instagram
Read the weekly Substack!
Buy Me A Coffee – Support the Show!
- Show more
