Today’s episode begins with a simple question:

What happens when artificial intelligence becomes powerful enough to convincingly turn a middle-aged Canadian writer into Batman?

The answer, as it turns out, is… a lot more unsettling than it sounds.

Because what this column is really about is how AI image generation is quietly pushing us even deeper into a post-truth world where plausibility matters more than reality.

If you enjoy Wocket Radio, you can subscribe to the (much more regular) written column for free — or support my writing by becoming a paid member — at donaldgfraser.substack.com. And if this particular episode makes you want to help keep things… uh, real… you can also toss a one-time coffee my way at ko-fi.com/thewocket.

You’re listening to The Wocket, in audio form.This is the recorded version of my latest column. I’m experimenting with turning these essays into spoken pieces — partly because I like the format, partly because some of you prefer listening while commuting, while falling asleep (and trust me, this is audible melatonin), or while avoiding eye contact with your fellow human beings. And don’t we all.

I’d genuinely love to know what you think of the audio version, so feel free to let me know once you’ve listened.

This one is about loving the Olympics while being deeply skeptical of nationalism. About cheering for athletes while side-eyeing the countries they represent. About the strange space where admiration, critique, pride, and discomfort all sit together on the couch.

If you’re new here:The Wocket is basically amateur sport — lots of effort, no endorsement deals, and running on the support of people who believe in the goal.

If you like the audio format, let me know. If you like the work in general, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber atdonaldgfraser.substack.com

And if this particular performance deserves a small podium finish in your books, you can toss a tip here:ko-fi.com/thewocket

More audio Wockets coming soon if people dig this format.

Link to your favourite streaming platform in the sidebar to listen on your preferred podcast app.

An essay about storms—ice storms, existential storms, and the strange clarity the aftermath can bring. It weaves through power outages, fatherhood, death, and the sacredness of the maple syrup boil, landing somewhere between elegy and survival guide.

A Note on the Audio

I wrote this beside the evaporator, in the aftermath, and layered it with field recordings. You’ll hear the fire, the heat pressure pings and creaks of the evaporator pans, the hiss of steam, and birds that kept singing anyway. It’s the same piece I published earlier this week, but read aloud, while making maple syrup—because somehow, that’s where it all made sense.

I have had requests for more audio content, from those on the go who prefer to listen to their literature. While I have hosted several podcasts before, this is the first I’ve tried on the Substack platform. I’m still in the trial stage. Let me know if this floats your audio boat.

A soliloquy to my love, Canada. We can get through this, my dearest one.

Hey there, Wocket readers!

This week, I’m switching things up with my very first video post—because, let’s be real, some rants are better served in one take, full of fire and passion. I would love to hear from you whether video content is something you’d like added to the Wocket menu. Please to let me know.

In this edition, I’m personally responding to Humpty’s less than brilliant suggestion that Canada should become the 51st state. (Spoiler: it’s not happening. Ever.)

I’m diving deep into what makes Canada, Canada—from bagged milk (don't knock it 'til you try it) to our universal healthcare, French-Canadian pride, and our perfectly passive-aggressive "sorrys." Oh, and if you think we’ll just roll over because some loudmouth south of the border throws a tantrum, you're seriously miscalculating.

Check out the video where I make it crystal clear why Canada is not—and will never be—the 51st state. FAFO, folks. It’s a good one.

Catch you in the video,DonaldThe Wocket