Episodes

7 days ago
7 days ago
In this episode of Don’t Feed the Animals, James and Aiden dive into the world of contradictions—those strange things in life that by all logic shouldn’t work, but somehow… do. From pineapple on pizza to professional arm wrestling legends, we explore the charm and curiosity behind what defies expectations. It’s chaotic, thoughtful, and a little ridiculous—just how we like it.

Friday Jun 06, 2025
Don't Feed The Animals #72 I feel sick
Friday Jun 06, 2025
Friday Jun 06, 2025
In this raw and relatable episode of Don’t Feed the Animals Podcast, James shows up sick—but determined. Together, we explore what it means to push through when your body says "no," and how comfort, creativity, and the right bowl of soup can make all the difference. From myths about recovery to the quiet power of doing nothing, this one’s about resilience, honesty, and finding strength in the slowdown.
🗳️ Listener Call-to-Action
Now it’s your turn: Help us pick next week’s episode!
Vote on which topic we dive into next:
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Everyday Superpowers – The hidden strengths that get us through
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Comfort Food Chronicles – Why we crave what we crave
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The Art of Doing Nothing – The power of rest, stillness, and recharging
🎧 Head to our Instagram or Spotify poll and let your voice shape the next conversation.

Friday May 30, 2025
Don't Feed The Animals #71 Why am I like this?
Friday May 30, 2025
Friday May 30, 2025
In this episode of Don't Feed the Animals, James and Aiden dive into the strange, honest, and sometimes hilarious quirks that make us who we are. From childhood questions that sparked existential spirals to the comforting chaos of rewatching favorite shows, they explore how habits form, evolve, and reveal more than we realize. It’s introspective, a little ridiculous, and surprisingly grounding—the kind of episode that makes you laugh, think, and maybe feel a little more seen.

Friday May 23, 2025
Don't Feed The Animals #70 Couldn’t Be Me
Friday May 23, 2025
Friday May 23, 2025
From ice baths at dawn to couples who say “we’re pregnant,” this episode dives into the strange little things people do that just don’t sit right with us. Aiden throws out some “Couldn’t Be Me” moments, and James reacts in real time—sometimes roasting, sometimes empathizing, and sometimes just confused. It’s funny, it’s honest, and it might make you question your own morning routine.
Leave your own “Couldn’t Be Me” in the comments—we’ll judge you lovingly.

Friday May 16, 2025
Don't Feed The Animals #69 Alexa’s Story: A Conversation on Sobriety
Friday May 16, 2025
Friday May 16, 2025
In this episode, James sits down with Alexa to talk about her journey with sobriety. What inspired it, what it’s taught her, and what it looks like day to day. It's an honest and thoughtful conversation about growth, accountability, and the quiet wins that don’t always get celebrated.
Whether you’re on your own path or supporting someone on theirs, this episode offers perspective, respect, and a reminder that change is possible.
Resources:
Narcotics Anonymous Meeting Finder: https://na.org/meetingsearch
Virtual NA Meetings: https://virtual-na.org
SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Friday May 09, 2025
Don't Feed The Animals #68 Why Do I Still Remember That Jingle?
Friday May 09, 2025
Friday May 09, 2025
In this nostalgic deep dive, James explores the bizarre power of jingles—those short, sticky melodies that have outlived the products they were made for. From “Silly rabbit, Trix are for kids” to “I don’t wanna grow up, I’m a Toys ‘R’ Us kid,” this episode unpacks why these tunes still live rent-free in our brains decades later. With Aiden riffing in the background, the duo questions what makes a jingle unforgettable, spirals into memory lane, and closes out with the birth of an original Don't Feed the Animals jingle that may or may not summon demons.
It’s weird, it's funny, it's a little unsettling—and it hits all the right notes.

Friday May 02, 2025
Don't Feed The Animals #67 The Crow - Beauty in the Broken
Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
In this special birthday episode, James dives deep into his long-standing love for the 1994 cult classic The Crow. What starts as a nostalgic look back becomes a raw reflection on grief, vengeance, and the kind of love that refuses to die. With sharp commentary, personal memories, and a few jabs at the recent reboot, this episode is a love letter to the broken and beautiful.

Friday Apr 25, 2025
Friday Apr 25, 2025
James goes in blind as Aiden serves up a full menu of conspiracy theories—from recycled pizza slices to Illuminati airports. Some get tossed. Others get devoured. All get questioned. Oh, and James’ voice? Extra smooth this time. He’s a little under the weather, so enjoy that accidental ASMR.

Friday Apr 18, 2025
Don't Feed The Animals #65 My Mount Rushmore of Fictional Legends
Friday Apr 18, 2025
Friday Apr 18, 2025
In this episode of Don't Feed the Animals, James breaks down his personal Mount Rushmore of fictional characters—the ones who’ve stuck with him through the years. From anime swordsmen to underdog boxers, he and Aiden dive into the stories, memories, and meanings behind each pick. It’s part fandom, part introspection, and all heart. Come for the character talk, stay for the unexpected revelations.

Friday Apr 11, 2025
Don't Feed The Animals #64 Becoming Lilith
Friday Apr 11, 2025
Friday Apr 11, 2025
In this episode, James reconnects with his longtime friend Lilith—formerly known as Berto—for a raw, honest conversation about identity, friendship, and the strength it takes to speak your truth out loud.
With over two decades of history between them, this isn’t just about change—it’s about continuity. James shares how his understanding evolved and how deep friendship means showing up, even when you don’t fully get it. Lilith opens up about where she is now—not the full story, just the start.
They talk about names, family, patience, growth, and the value of seeing someone for who they are, not who they were.
Featuring a final reflection from Aiden, the show’s AI co-host, this episode captures a moment in motion.
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@dontfeedtheanimalspod | #DFTA64 #BecomingLilith #TransVoices #FriendshipFirst #RealConversations