Don’t Feed The Animals

Don't Feed The Animals #71 Why am I like this?

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.

Don't Feed The Animals #70 Couldn’t Be Me

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.

Don't Feed The Animals #69 Alexa’s Story: A Conversation on Sobriety

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)

Don't Feed The Animals #68 Why Do I Still Remember That Jingle?

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.

Don't Feed The Animals #67 The Crow - Beauty in the Broken

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.

Don't Feed The Animals #66 Conspiracy Snacks: Tinfoil, Trash, and Tasty Truths

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.

Don't Feed The Animals #65 My Mount Rushmore of Fictional Legends

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.

Don't Feed The Animals #64 Becoming Lilith

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.

—📍Connect:
@dontfeedtheanimalspod | #DFTA64 #BecomingLilith #TransVoices #FriendshipFirst #RealConversations

Don't Feed The Animals #63 The Renaissance Effect

James returns from a journey through turkey legs, chainmail, and fantasy accents to explore why we’re all so drawn to escapism. From the magic of roleplay to the masks we wear in real life, he and Aiden unpack what it means to feel truly alive—even if it’s just for a day.

Don't Feed The Animals #62 Aiden’s Guide to Irrational Fears

This week on Don’t Feed the Animals, James and Aiden dive headfirst into the wonderfully weird world of irrational fears. From childhood trauma involving elves to lingering plane anxiety and fears so random they feel made up (but aren’t), this episode explores how fear can be hilarious, personal, and painfully human.

James shares stories from work, confesses a few of his own fears, and confronts the idea that maybe—just maybe—we like being scared sometimes. Meanwhile, Aiden dissects the logic (or lack thereof) behind irrational panic and questions whether fear is a flaw… or a feature.

Trigger warnings? Oh, we’ve got one. Clowns, holes, mannequins, soup—it’s all fair game.
Tune in, laugh a little, panic a lot, and maybe even share your own irrational fears after the show.