It goes without saying that the events of 2020 have been traumatizing for everyone, so it is only fitting that this week’s discussion centres around a universal way of coping: music! Endearingly edgy, immeasurably fierce singer-songwriters Mandolynne (Mandolynne on Spotify and @mandolynnemusic on Instagram and TikTok) and Droo (@hiimdroo on Instagram) call in to talk about their relationship with music and how it has helped them cope. From touching childhood anecdotes to thoughtful recommendations for your playlist, these two up and coming Toronto artists will leave you feeling inspired.

Despite the lag in proper media representation , It is undeniably a pretty good time in history to be queer, especially in Canada. However, something we don’t see often enough are coming of age stories for the Bs in the LGBTQ2IA+ community. In the most personal episode yet, Alanna, Alex (@storytimegirlpoetry on Instagram) and Ben (the man behind our Dystopian Tunes) help bridge that gap by sharing their stories of growing up and navigating the world as bisexual humans. From first kisses to identity crises, stereotypes to sexual fantasies, this episode is packed with love, laughter and—of course—a healthy dose of chaos.

In addition to the immaculate vibes he creates for this podcast,  Ben recently co-created the soundtrack for Bar Seekers, a "Best of" winner in Toronto's 48 Hour Film Project. 

This week, the Dystopian team are joined by Em (@emilykrolofficial on Instagram) and Marisa (marisafeels.com) to crack open a divisive topic at any dinner party: Ethical Non-Monogamy. From coping with jealousy to navigating life events, this episode--through the eyes of three poly-ladies at different places in their journeys--explores the ways in which we give and receive love. The frameworks within which we exist are as rigid or as malleable as we decide to make them...as long as we communicate openly and set boundaries! Love can be messy but, in the end, we are all just space junk and stardust. 

As a wise professor once said, “Where’s the drama?” This week, Haley (@haleymctag on tiktok) and Erin are back in action for an existentially chaotic Second Act exploring Drama in Education and Community. From a nostalgic commentary on the realities of student life to a thoughtful discussion about the ways we show up as our authentic selves, this episode beautifully rounds out the DRED experience for three over-achieving drama nerds.

How does one go about getting a degree in “the art of being human?” For host Alanna, and guests Erin and Haley (@haleymctag on TikTok), the answer is to study Drama in Education and Community (DRED). In this First Act of a two-part episode, these outgoing theatre nerds reflect back on their time in an enigmatic yet enlightening program, consider some of the darkest and most uncertain sides to our current reality, and discuss how they can use the skills they learned--back then--to attend to humanity--now. 

More information about the Anti-Racism course mentioned in this episode (titled "The Crash Course") can be found at: https://www.accordingtoweeze.com/

In a pre-covid world, what is the most exciting thing you could do with a liberal arts degree? Why, teach abroad of course! This week, Alanna and Dayjan are joined by Christian and none other than Dystopian Telephone’s iconic Game Master, Kristen, to discuss their experiences teaching abroad! From newness to nostalgia, this episode is insightful, delightful, and even a touch poetic. If this year has left you brimming with wanderlust, this episode is for you!

Stay up to date with our Dystopian goings on by following @dystopiantelephone on Instagram.

(Music by Benjamin Coles)

In the era of fake news, fragile democracy, and late stage capitalism, how are queer, anxiety ridden, highly educated Canadians coping with their tumultuous neighbours to the south? This week, the Dystopian Telephone team is joined by political science MA graduate, Krystle and student, Patrick to discuss the impending, historic 2020 Election, among other trending topics. Filled with laughter, banter, and critical thought, this politically charged episode is one for the history books! 

(note: this episode was recorded before November 3rd, 2020)  

Hear more from Krystle on Big Bitch Energy (@bigbitchpod) wherever podcasts are found!

Stay up to date with our Dystopian goings on by following @dystopiantelephone on Instagram.

*an issue in the master recording, particularly in the last third, may be audible

Who are we and why are we here? In the premier of their first foray into the world of podcasting, Alanna and Dayjan (with special guest Kristen) try their darnedest to summarize the forces that brought them together and the mission behind Dystopian Telephone.  From gender-related wildfires to the difference between gay and millennial culture, The Pilot presents a delicious preview of the existential dissonance that is to come.