Friendless
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Friendless episodes

  • You're Doing Better Than You Think (January Lil' Guy)

    In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko delves into themes of self-forgiveness and the distinction between behaving badly and behaving dangerously. He explores internal narratives, accountability, and the impact versus intention dynamic in societal and interpersonal interactions. 

    Reflecting on his own behaviour, James emphasises the importance of personal accountability and the danger of using trauma as an excuse for harmful actions. He also discusses the challenges of forgiveness, the concept of justice, and the need for proactive effort in maintaining long-distance friendships. 

    The episode concludes with a reflection on recent personal ups and downs, the speaker's writing projects and social media success, and a message of love and well wishes. Tune in for an insightful and resonant exploration of self-forgiveness and personal growth.

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    36 min
  • Cross-continental Connections (with special guest Taylor Padget)

    In this very special, and ironically timed, episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko is joined by Taylor Padget (ice cream maestro and safest boy in Vancouver). They share a candid and humorous conversation about their experiences with friendships, the challenge of making genuine connections, and the significance of chosen family. 

    Taylor also shares his decision to take a bold step and move to the UK. From pop culture moments to discussing their hometowns, the episode is packed with lighthearted banter and heartfelt reflections on the complexities of friendship. 

    Join James and Taylor as they explore the joys and trials of building meaningful connections in their thirties.

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    Follow Hey, Sorry I Missed You (James' year-long daily novel in verse project)

    Support the show by Buying Me A Coffee!

    1 hr 8 min
  • Some Heavy Ass Shit (with special guest Kal Nguyen)
    This week on a very special episode of Friendless, your pal James Avramenko is joined by artist and ruffian Kal Nguyen. 
    They get into some really heavy subject matter, so listener discretion is advised. 
    If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health and need help, here are a few resources to reach out to:
    Talk Suicide Canada: 988
    Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789
    Vancouver Crisis Line - 604-872-3311
    You're not alone.
    1 hr 8 min
  • Burn It Down With Love (with Jaz Papadopoulos)

    This week on a very special episode of Friendless, your pal James Avramenko is joined by special guest Jaz Papadopoulos. Jaz is a poet, a teacher, a conflict resolution expert, and all around inspiration. 

    They discuss the pitfalls of living in Vancouver (and how to escape), calling the UN out on their bs, asking for what you want from the people in your life, and so much more!

    Check out Jaz's work on their website HERE

    Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE

    Follow Hey, Sorry I Missed You (James' year-long novel in verse) on Instagram HERE

    And if you're feeling extra saucy, why not Buy Me A Coffee?

    1 hr 20 min
  • Holiday Wrap-Up Extravaganza! (December Lil' Guy)

    It's the most wonderful time of the year! 

    To wrap up 2023, your pal James is back with a review of the year. He goes over some of his favourite books, movies, and podcasts. He also answers listener questions from who to buy gifts for to his favourite and least favourite holiday traditions. 

    Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE

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    And here's a list breaking down the Top 3s that James goes over in the episode:

    Top Movies:

    No One Will Save You

    Good Luck to You Leo Grande

    Scream 6


    Top Books:

    Marigold and Rose

    Heat 2

    The Debutante

    Batman '89


    Top Podcasts:

    The Ancients

    Therapists in the wild

    The Dream

    Love, Janessa


    Top TV Shows:

    Ted Lasso

    Shrinking

    Um Actually


    Happy Holidays y'all! See you in the new year and remember:

    Fun and safety!

    31 min
  • Unbreaking Your Brain (with Special Guest Darcy Haywood Stoop)

    This week on a very special episode of Friendless, your pal James Avramenko welcomes back returning guest Darcy Haywood Stoop. 

    They discuss the ups and downs of mental health, how to refuse to seize the day, and the healthy ego it takes to put your own airmask on first. 

    Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE

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    and on TikTok


    1 hr 5 min
  • Radical Vulnerability (November Lil' Guy)

    Trigger Warning: Open conversations about depression, grief, trauma, abuse.

    I haven't been able to see my therapist in three weeks and am having a nervous breakdown. Come along while I try to practice radical vulnerability and express what's been going on in my life this month. I tried to say everything I could as honestly as I could, I already know I missed things, forgot things, didn't say everything properly. I'm trying my best, that's got to be good enough.

    November is Men's Mental Health Month. If you or someone you know is struggling, please use the resources here to get the help you need. 

    Sign up for the Friendless Substack Here

    33 min
  • Queer Love on a Dead Planet (with special guest Nathan Iles)

    In this very special episode of "Friendless," your pal James welcomes special returning guest Nathan Iles!

    They discuss the importance of community and the challenges of remote work, explore the intricacies of friendship and personal growth, discuss the impact of technology and social media on relationships, the need for safe spaces, and the power of niche communities. 

    They also delve into the world of classic video games, sharing their favorite titles and the evolution of storytelling within the gaming industry. 

    Check out Nathan's writing HERE
    and listen to his band Brain Bent HERE

    Sign up for the Friendless Substack HERE

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    and on TikTok

    Follow HSIMY on Instagram HERE

    and if you're feeling extra generous, Buy Me A Coffee!


    1 hr 9 min
  • Navigating Lost Friendships and Setting Boundaries (with special guest Laura Anne Harris)

    This week on a very special episode of Friendless host James Avramenko is joined by the talented playwright, solo performer, and writer, Laura Anne Harris. 

    Their conversation delves into the intrinsic joy of the creative process, the challenges of being an artist, and the need for self-compassion. Laura candidly shares her journey through personal transformation, navigating grief, and her experiences in the artistic community, offering valuable insights into friendships, setting boundaries, and the impact of the pandemic. Both James and Laura emphasize the importance of open communication, therapy, and releasing repressed emotions for improved mental well-being. They also explore the changing dynamics of friendships and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of uncertainty. This deeply reflective and open-hearted episode is a touching exploration of personal growth, artistic perseverance, and the power of genuine connections.

    Follow Laura on Instagram

    or check out her website

    Follow Friendless on Instagram

    or TikTok

    Follow Hey, Sorry I Missed You

    Sign up for the Friendless Substack!!

    And if you're feeling really generous, why not Buy Me A Coffee?

    1 hr 13 min
  • Escape from Community (with Rod Peter Jr)

    This week on a very special episode of Friendless, your pal James is joined once again by actor, writer, producer, and pro wrasslin' mark Rod Peter Jr! 

    They discuss navigating the world of Fringe theatre, the difference between community and society, making friends with mushrooms, and big sweat musclemen rolling around each other!

    Follow Rod on Instagram

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    Follow Hey, sorry I missed you on Instagram

    Sign up with the Friendless Substack HERE

    And support the show HERE

    1 hr 10 min

About Friendless

From the publisher's feed

Friendless is a podcast about the strange, tender, often painful work of staying connected. Host James Avramenko talks to writers, thinkers, activists, and everyday people about…