Sickboy

This week things get weird. Like, Alice in Wonderland weird. Speaking of, ever hear of Alice In Wonderland Syndrome? It's a rare neurological condition that causes people to experience distortions in their perception of time, space, and their bodies. People with Alice in Wonderland syndrome might feel like they're shrinking or growing, or that their surroundings are changing size. In some cases, they might even feel like they're losing their sense of self. All without the need for psychedelics. If you think that's weird, Ever hear of lexical-gustatory synaesthesia? A condition that causes people to associate words and names with specific tastes and smells. For example, the name "Kirsty" might taste like piss to one person, while it might taste like sliced apples to another. This condition is thought to be caused by a cross-wiring of the senses in the brain. Then they talk about a man in the US whose tongue turned green and hairy after taking antibiotics and smoking cigarettes. Not sure what's worse... the name of your closest friend smelling like piss or a green hairy tongue. Finally, they discuss a breakthrough drug that could regrow teeth. Researchers in Japan are developing a drug that could regrow teeth for people who have lost teeth due to injury or disease. This is a major breakthrough for the dental field, and it could potentially help millions of people. But it's not going to help the tongue guy or the dude who smells pee at the sound of "Kirsty".

In this very very special episode the fellas speak with Stephen Jenkinson, a renowned author, storyteller, and grief worker. Jenkinson has a master's degree in theology from Harvard Divinity School and another in social work from the University of Toronto. He led the counselling program for the country's largest home-based palliative care program, and has worked with thousands of people facing death and dying. The fellas are enthralled as Jenkinson discusses his views on death, grief, and the importance of engaging with these topics in a meaningful way. He shares insights from his work as a social worker and his own personal experiences with death. We also talk about the cultural factors that contribute to our "death phobia" and "grief illiteracy." But don't worry, this episode is not all doom and gloom. Jenkinson also shares some of his own unique (and sometimes humorous) insights on how to live a more meaningful life in the face of death. This episode is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most important aspects of the human experience. If you are interested in learning more about death, grief, and how to live a more meaningful life, then this episode is for you... even if you're a little bit scared of dying.

This week the boys engage in a conversation with Bryce Seto, writer, marketing executive, and co-founder of The Blossom Fund. Bryce, diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), shares personal insights on how this condition impacts his daily life and relationships. He candidly discusses early signs and symptoms, their evolution, and the effect on parenting. Intriguingly, Bryce sheds light on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and its transformative power in his life. We explore how BPD affects self-perception and identity, and how he cultivates stability amidst the disorder. Bryce's dedication to mental health advocacy led to the creation of The Blossom Fund, raising awareness and providing grants for Asian Canadians to access mental health support. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

USPS mishandles cremated remains, MRI mishaps with butt plugs, rise of kidney stones in teenage girls, dangers of peeing in the shower, and exploring asexuality and consent

This week the fellas are joined by Aline Laurent-Mayard, a French journalist and advocate for gender and LGBTQ+ issues, and the host of "Free From Desire" now available in Canada and the US. The gang dive into the world of asexuality. Aline, who identifies as asexual, shares personal insights and experiences, challenging misconceptions and promoting understanding. They discuss the pressures faced by teenagers regarding sex as a rite of passage, questioning societal norms that equate sexual activity with maturity and self-worth. Aline courageously shares their journey, shedding light on the complexities of asexuality and dispelling the notion that it is a disease or disorder. Make sure you check out Free From Desire, available wherever you get your podcasts! Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

In this heartwarming and humorous episode, Jer and Bri have the pleasure of chatting with Roy Baird, an 83-year-old dynamo from Sherbrooke, Quebec, who is fearlessly taking on bladder cancer while living life to the fullest! Roy's journey is a testament to his unwavering spirit and ability to navigate the complex process of a bladder cancer diagnosis. The gang dive into the challenges he faced during treatment, but with a touch of humour that only Roy can bring. After all, he's got a literal lifetime of wisdom and a killer sense of humour! We also explore the unique aspects of long-term management for bladder cancer and how Roy's retirement has played a role in his journey. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Brian is out of town so Jer and Tay go off the rails this week. RIP Jerry Martin. The past Sickboy guest and Safe Supply advocate has tragically died of a suspected fentanyl overdose. It turns out COVID can have a detrimental effect on the quality of semen and semen production even when the infection was mild. Usually, fans throw things like bras and their cellphones at their favourite musicians… one lady threw a bag of her mom's ashes at Pink! Did you know that your pests can get infested with pests? And if that didn’t make you itch, Jer explores the ​​little-known condition of seminal plasma hypersensitivity, commonly referred to as a semen allergy. Why do some individuals experience discomfort and swelling after contact with semen? It’s often mistaken for STI symptoms. As it stands there is limited research on this condition that affects thousands of women in the US. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

The fellas are in for an inspiring conversation with Suzanne Anderson, founder of The Mysterial Woman and a renowned psychologist, coach, and author. Suzanne's pioneering work in awakening our Feminine and Masculine strengths combines ancient wisdom, depth psychology, and modern neuroscience. In her memoir-guidebook, "You Make Your Path by Walking," she explores how difficult events can become transformative forces, guiding us towards wholeness and growth. We delve into the power of acceptance and surrender, discovering how embracing what is allows us to shape what can be. Suzanne shares her own experience of navigating the profound loss of her husband to suicide and finding healing through forgiveness, ultimately reclaiming her freedom and personal growth. Additionally, the gang explore the significance of ritual practices during uncertain times, bridging the gap between the conscious and unconscious mind, providing grounding and transformation. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

In this captivating episode, the fellas welcome Sandy, also known as Sandserif, a graphic designer, illustrator, and webcomic artist. Sandy, who typically prefers to keep his real name private, breaks his silence to discuss mental health in his art and his journey as an artist with a benign brain tumour. The fellas explore Sandy’s personal experiences with anxiety, depression, and his recent bipolar disorder diagnosis. He shares the intriguing story of his awake brain surgery. No, unfortunately, he didn’t smell burnt toast, but he did get a free shaving off his nuts prior to the procedure. Sandy also touches upon his Indian upbringing and the challenges of living with his parents post-surgery, while eagerly anticipating his upcoming move to a new country. The gang delves into the presence of death in Sandy’s comics and the profound influence of his tumour, affectionately named Timmy. Check out Sandy’s art here: https://www.instagram.com/sandserifcomics/ Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the boys deep dive into the very VERY dark and twisted history of organ transplantation. In particular, Jer tells the boys about the role that Vladimir Demikhov played in it all. Demikhov was a Soviet scientist and organ transplant pioneer referred to as “the father of heart and lung transplantation.” But he isn’t only famous for his work in discovering how we can transplant organs in humans. He’s arguably more famous for his bat-sh*t crazy off-the-wall work in trying to create a two-headed dog. For a little palate cleanser - did you know that the water you’re cleansing your palate with is just dino piss? Will AI replace the jobs of lifeguards? Finally, did you know that there are a number of animals that have “virgin births”? Crocs have recently been added to the list. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN