Friendless
James Avramenko
Are you feeling lonely or struggling to make friends? You're not alone. In 'Friendless,' host James Avramenko explores the ups and downs of friendship, the challenges of making new connections, and the impact of social isolation on our mental health. Each episode, James talks to people from all walks of life who have experienced friendship struggles and share their stories of triumph and perseverance. From overcoming shyness to navigating social anxiety, 'Friendless' offers practical tips and empathetic advice to help you build meaningful connections and find your community. Join James as he explores the complex world of human connection and the power of friendship.
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Top 10 Friendless Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Friendless episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Friendless for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Friendless episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
How Do Adults Make Friends?
Friendless
10/15/24 • 42 min
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!
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10/08/24 • 76 min
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!
Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"
Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!!
Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr
06/04/24 • 88 min
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.
07/19/22 • 74 min
This week your host James Avramenko unfriends actor, producer, and former roommate James Kot. They talk about sweet memories of the boom boom room, the perceived hierarchies of theatre school, allowing yourself to access joy, and so much more!
Check out James Kot's work through his Instagram or his School
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Forget about it Jennica, it's Carantane
Friendless
03/16/21 • 45 min
This week on a very special episode of Friendless, my sweet wife Jennica returns in our attempt at a glimmer of levity in reflecting on the past year.
We chat about regrettable quarantine purchases, the traumas of travel, levelling up new skills, love bombing old friends, and making a playlist of 2020 cultural moments (spoiler: it ain’t great). All that and so much more on this very special episode.
Be sure to follow the show anywhere you get your podcasts and review the episode with five stars!
Follow Raised By The Movies on Apple, Spotify, or Google or search for it on your favourite podcatcher!
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And check out the Monster Monthly Zine Website or Twitter
Kelsey Ledbury
Friendless
02/02/21 • 33 min
This week on Friendless, I unfriend my old Bowness High School classmate Kelsey Ledbury.
Kelsey and I talk about reevaluating dreams, when the show shouldn’t go on, running away to paradise, artists with jobs, how to make friends at work, and singing Monty Python in Science class.
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And get a copy of BU TT HE AD here
03/28/23 • 69 min
On this week's very special episode of Friendless, the one and only Robbie Towns makes his triumphant return!
We talk all about setting boundaries, video games as stress triggers, and navigating the wild world of modern Canadian theatre.
Check out Robbie's Instagram
Check out Robbie's Website
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And take a gander at the Friendless Pensight
If you've got a few bucks to spare why not Buy Me A Coffee?!?
04/04/23 • 14 min
The special sneak-oeak reading series of "Out of Town" continues with chapter 4: "No offence intended to my dad but my grandpa my example of a man growing up." read by the authour and your host James Avramenko!
Links to what we discuss:
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If you like this show and want to support it why not Buy Me A Coffee or visit the Friendless Linktree to sign up for the newsletter, get free downloads, and so much more!
07/04/23 • 18 min
- In this episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko delves deep into the topic of overcoming the fear of intimacy, a challenge that many of us can relate to.
- The fear of intimacy can manifest differently for each person, whether it stems from past experiences, vulnerability, or a fear of rejection. However, it can serve as a significant barrier to forming the deep and meaningful connections we desire.
- James emphasises the importance of cultivating self-awareness as the first step in overcoming this fear. Taking the time to reflect on personal fears and insecurities and understanding the underlying beliefs or experiences that contribute to the fear of intimacy is crucial.
- The podcast explores the concept of self-compassion, reminding listeners that we're all human and it's natural to have fears and vulnerabilities. Treating oneself with kindness and understanding is essential on this journey of growth.
- The episode provides actionable strategies for opening up and overcoming the fear of intimacy. These include challenging beliefs about intimacy and relationships, starting small by gradually opening up to trusted friends or loved ones, and seeking professional guidance through therapy or counselling.
- James emphasises that overcoming the fear of intimacy is a journey that requires patience and self-kindness. Vulnerability, though challenging, opens the door to deeper connections and authentic relationships.
- Additional strategies discussed in the episode include practicing self-reflection and journaling, building trust gradually, embracing vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness, and practicing active listening to deepen connections.
- The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to reflect on their own journey and share their thoughts and experiences on the podcast website or social media. James reminds everyone that they have the power to break free from the fear of intimacy and cultivate the deep connections they crave.
- Tune in to this Lil' Guy episode of "Friendless" to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for overcoming the fear of intimacy, ultimately fostering authentic and meaningful relationships.
Check out the Friendless Linktree
Visit the Friendless Website
Follow Friendless on TikTok or on Instagram
and be sure to support the show by Buying Me A Coffee!
01/16/24 • 67 min
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.
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FAQ
How many episodes does Friendless have?
Friendless currently has 146 episodes available.
What topics does Friendless cover?
The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Kindness, Society & Culture, Social Media, History, Future, Mental Health, Friendship, Facebook, Podcasts, Connection, Internet, Relationships, Theatre and Life.
What is the most popular episode on Friendless?
The episode title 'What the hell is a boundary anyway? (a mini-update!)' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Friendless?
The average episode length on Friendless is 61 minutes.
How often are episodes of Friendless released?
Episodes of Friendless are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Friendless?
The first episode of Friendless was released on Oct 20, 2020.
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