Distant Friends of Dorothy

When my phone erupted with notifications during a crucial moment, it wasn't just a minor mishap—it was the catalyst for a conversation about the hilariously complex relationship we have with our gadgets. Marika and I swap stories of tech faux pas and share a boisterous 'Okay, Boomer' moment before shifting to a more tender topic. The heartache of dealing with bullying emerges as we discuss a family's endeavor to advocate for their child within the school system, revealing the emotional labor and the critical need for support during such trying times.Unexpectedly, pop culture weaves its way through our stories, with Marika illuminating our discussion with insights on Jojo Siwa's rebrand and its varied reception among fans. We not only unpack the cultural impact of celebrity transformations but also debate the therapeutic effects of 'punching pillows' versus peaceful walks. This episode takes you on a roller coaster of emotions, from the challenges of personal adversity to the lighter moments of curating our quintessential 'gay nostalgia' playlist.As we approach the finale of our heartfelt exchange, we find solace in the pure joy of karaoke classics and reminisce about the golden era of PlayStation games. We ponder the film industry's love affair with sequels and the delicate dance between cherishing the past and embracing original content. The episode wraps with a reflection on intimate relationships, the bonds of friendship, and the little joys in life, like catching up on belated birthday wishes. Join us for a journey that balances laughter, empathy, and thoughtful contemplation, where every listen promises to be as enriching as the last.

Ever felt like Dorothy, tossed into a whirlwind of life's demands and enchantments? This week, my co-host and I whirl through a kaleidoscope of topics, from the dark origins of children's classics like Oz to the pressing issues of modern parenthood. We reminisce about the simpler times of baking cheesecakes with friends, only to be pulled back by the gravity of a friend's life-threatening medical scare. It's a chat loaded with laughter, life lessons, and the occasional existential quandary, offering a slice of life as rich and varied as the cheesecake we made.Join us as we meander through conversations that touch on everything from the evolving language of gender identity to the timeless traditions of Easter. We'll share a moment of communal mourning for the victims of a recent tragedy and find solace in the nostalgic embrace of vintage video games. But it's not all heavy hearts and retrospective musings; get ready for some practical advice on preventing boiled eggs from cracking and how to juggle the demands of academic achievements with the joys of raising little ones.Prepare to ride an emotional rollercoaster as we cover the peculiarities of pet dental care, the hilarity of award mix-ups, and the nitty-gritty of Canadian government workers' paychecks. We'll open up about personal accolades in teacher education, the quirks of family traditions, and the very real concern of managing finances with the deductions that come out of our hard-earned pay. It's a conversation that's as diverse as our lives themselves—a mix of professional insights, personal reflections, and those candid moments that make you chuckle and nod in agreement.

Embarking on the path to parenthood can feel like navigating a labyrinth by torchlight, but we're here to guide you through every twist and turn. Our latest episode charts the often unspoken trials of fertility—from the home use of a speculum to a perilous trek for a cryogenic chamber amidst a blizzard. We also stumbled upon serendipity, meeting a midwife whose expertise bolstered our spirits and resolve. Then we shift gears to a candid conversation about how financial support systems intersect with our daily lives. We discuss groundbreaking healthcare initiatives combining medical aid with essential social services, and the ripple effects of universal basic income on communities. We're not just talking theories here; we're examining real-world impacts, from better school attendance to reduced crime rates. And as family structures evolve, we dissect the intricacies of custody and parental rights that play a critical role in navigating financial aid for children. Our exploration doesn't stop at the edge of reality; we also venture into the realm of fiction and its portrayal of relationships and secrets. We analyze the impact of adverse childhood experiences through the tangled tales of "The L Word" and personal stories, reflecting on how these narratives mirror our own lives. Finally, we send you off into the night with a heartfelt reminder of the power of empathy and self-care. As you close your eyes tonight, know that we're here, sharing in the collective quest for understanding and connection.

Ever feel like you're riding an emotional rollercoaster while watching your favorite series? That's precisely what we unpack in the latest episode of our podcast, as we sort through the drama by characters and situations from Season 1, Episode 4 of 'The L Word'. Join us for a heartfelt journey through Alice's tumultuous love life, Jenny's complex web of affection, and the myriad challenges faced by Bette, Dana, Shane, and Kit. We reflect not just on the show's events, but also on how these characters' choices resonate with our own life experiences.Have you ever finished a series and felt a twinge of sadness, mixed with a dash of pride for guessing some of the twists? We dive into the storytelling of 'The L Word', pondering character arcs and the nostalgic finish. Then we switch gears to 'Gideon the Ninth', sharing our thoughts on the mesmerizing plot and our yearning for a happy ending amidst the tragedy. It's a conversation full of introspection about our emotional bonds with fictional personas and the stories that keep us returning for more, despite knowing the journey ahead may not be smooth sailing.Wrapping up, we tackle real-life topics from the tech-savvy evolution of bedside tables to the shared family experiences around a PlayStation 3 console. And because life isn't all fun and games, we recount a sobering encounter with an online scam, prompting an earnest discussion on digital vigilance and the generational divide in fraud awareness. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and get ready for a chat that's as varied as the contents of a well-stocked bedside drawer.

Navigating the high seas of life's challenges and the torrential currents of personal growth, Marika and I reconvene to unfurl the sails of our latest heart-to-heart. From my fresh supervisory seas to Marika's candid confessions of insemination trials, we chart a course through both murky waters and moments of unexpected comedy—like devising a plot to bring sperm across borders with a wink and a nod to legality. Marika's brave share of the emotional and financial whirlpools encountered in the pursuit of motherhood invites you into the raw, sometimes humorous realities that accompany such a profound journey.Strap in for a cultural odyssey as we steer through the diverse terrains of sexual identity and expression, recounting tales from my recent Stateside sojourn that underscore the tightrope walk of being openly gay in contrasting environments. As we anchor in the harbor of popular media, dissecting the lesbian theme in "The L Word," we navigate through the laughter and the analytical, infusing our personal tales and cultural insights into the mix. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an exploration of the intersections where life's complexities meet the power of sharing and understanding—one heartfelt story at a time.

Ever had a digital mishap where your past unexpectedly dances into the present? Well, join Marika and me, Karyn, as we recount how my students stumbled upon my vibrant history, including a memorable gay parade. This episode of "Distant Friends of Dorothy" is packed with the kind of stories that'll make you chuckle and nod in agreement. Marika is in the spotlight with her creative exploits, from dot journals to crafting crepe paper masterpieces. Meanwhile, we navigate the humorous tribulations of relationships, pondering how love can gracefully coexist with our environmental commitments.Our rewatch of "The L Word" pilot brings us back to where it all began for lesbian representation on TV—with a twist. We dissect the authentic and often amusing depiction of Bette and Tina's pursuit of parenthood, while also being candid of our loathing for Jenny's character. The portrayal of couples therapy and the deeper narrative it weaves draws us in, reminding us just how groundbreaking this show was for its time. As we share our insights, we hope to bring new layers of appreciation to these iconic storylines and characters.Wrapping up, we delve into the delicate topics of trans representation and fertility with an open heart. Tess from "Generation Q," portrayed by Jamie Clayton, becomes our beacon of inclusive storytelling. On a lighter note, we muse over the domestic bliss of a new dishwasher and the zen of bringing nature indoors. Our musings on the day's small wins and the power of saying "I love you" leave us feeling uplifted and ready for the next episode. So, curl up with your favorite drink, and let us fill your ears with tales of life's quirky moments and the enduring impact of beloved TV narratives.

Ever wondered why parents react differently to their kids' sporting events? Reflecting on our personal experiences of being soccer parents, we get into the nitty-gritty of the amusingly different parental reactions on the soccer field. This episode is a laugh riot as we discuss the unexpected aspects of parenthood, the thrill of buying a Mr. Beast t-shirt, the quirkiness of online shopping, and the modern-day phenomena of participation awards. Ever been intrigued by the Krebs Cycle and the concept of oxygen and decomposition? We promise you a deep dive into the subject, inspired by the recent Titanic submarine mission. Along with this scientific excursion, we tackle prevailing online misinformation, the dangerous mindset of invincibility among billionaires, and the pressure within self-contained systems. Balancing family, work, school concerts, and hygiene doesn't come easy, does it? Laying bare our struggles of work-life balance, we reveal how it impacts our kids and our unique ways of managing it. We share our funny yet sensitive stories about dental hygiene, the importance of brushing teeth, and our experiences of dealing with cavities. As we round off our discussion with tattoos, Lego sets, TikTok fame and park hangouts, we hope you find solace in the fact that the joys and challenges of parenting are universal! Welcome aboard this laughter-filled journey of shared experiences, parenting quirks, and everyday life lessons.

This week, which was actually recorded November 30 (oops) we discuss so many things! Also, well, there's a bunch of episodes that are ready to edit and upload and Karyn is maybe actually coming out of her depression and should be able to get them done!Marika starts this one off with a lovely space heater running in the background.Also who is listening to us in Puerto Rico? Also the stomach flu sucksAlso cell phones are weirdAlso people suck at winter drivingAlso, ask kids 'how come' instead of 'why'Also, controversial opinion, Karyn thinks you should leave your camera on for virtual meetings, even when you're zoned out, it's still so helpful for the presenterAlso cats pee on clothesAlso Kayn is talking with a girlAlso, literal people are so refreshingAlso, Karyn needs to break up with her counsellorAlso, everything is expensive and life is hardAlso, Karyn received a compliment from a philosophy professor at some pointAlso, high school trauma was a thingAlso, Karyn and Marika are oldAlso, Karyn was wearing a nice outfitAlso, Karyn needs a slut phaseAlso, Karyn finds an iPad for her son for $100 Also, don't get pregnant between March 1 and April 30Also, welcome back at 46 minutes, but in recording time it was 1 hour 25 minutes but none of that will ever be uploaded to the internetAlso, Karyn wants to pierce her noseAlso, Marika has a spindle in her house?Also, Marika was observed todayAlso, the elf comes back tomorrow, but it's a different elf, and the elf needs to write a letter to acknowledge that they're a different e

Wasn't able to upload for a bit there, had a little bit of the depresso espresso, coming out the other side now though!!!Luckily we continued recording and it's just up to Karyn to edit and upload!Marika avoided in house Ovid-Cay!Marika had a great experience at work!Karyn finished a 22 page study!Do cats puke a lot?A body builder killed her husband, and the kids reactions were interesting, and kids in general in unsafe living environments are interesting.Who listened to us in Medicine Hat Alberta? Also someone saved one of Karyn's Tiktoks??!!Karyn is obsessed with Hasanabi, Marika learns about TwitchUmmm, what happened to Twitter, from slavery to trump to insulin, so many blue checkmarks making weird ass comments.Inflation sucks, Marika's union is bargainingKaryn awkwardly segues to talking about Bridge to Terabithia and like, what the hell is up with all children's movies starting with death!?!?Karyn has a goblin puppet from the Labyrinth movie!Karyn is going to start teaching piano lessonsKaryn has warmed up to Maddy Weiner on Ashley Gavin's WHGS podcastAlso Ashley Gavin is coming to Canada, but she's going Winnipeg, so that's terrifyingArrogant wormsThe Assumption SongMiss MaryAlso TJ, you're amazing, but I don't have time to edit out pieces of the podcast!!!Also Marika taught Karyn how to write shit nicelyAlso the world sucks

No main topic this time, Karyn is sick and everyone in Marika's house has the 'vid except for herImposter syndrome is rearing it's headFreedom Fighters are still a thingTeaching seems like it might be a nice career change for KarynMarika's cats are adorable

Karyn needs to rearrange her room againAlso counselling is fun!Also trigger warnings are underappreciatedAlso PAC are exclusionary Also where did these conservative kids come from?Also travelling while gay is nerve wrackingAlso challenging someone to a duel is legal?Also there's a bunch of Canadian slang that we didn't know was Canadian

HAPPY 10th EPISODE!This week, our dearest Marika is contemplating whether or not she should have a child, because when two women fall in love, there are no chances for accidents. Or should it be Lauren?Also, Michael wants a dogAlso, Marika's cats came into her life in a very odd wayAlso, don't be nice it's a pain in the tushyAlso, don't buy old cop cars, it's irritatingAlso, kids don't know what their grade is anymoreAlso, Karyn was undiagnosed ADHD but was in French immersion...coincidence?Also, Shakespeare was an interesting guy

There's a surprise this week! Our back and forth conversation becomes a triangle! Meet TJ!Also, Karyn has deleted her dating appsAlso, can someone help and tell us what the F in FDA stands for?Also, making friends as adults is hardAlso, Costco is amazing and Karyn is the only one who doesn't live near one

This week we go over the try guys drama and our opinions on it. Also apparently Karyn needs to take a trip to Vancouver

This week Karyn is an actual Karen and gets called out by Marika for itAlso, Karyn has a breakdown about moving a nightstand to a new place, and in the end it wasn't even worth it Then we talk about a DV case from 2012 And we finish off with Marika explaining that school teaches children important things 

So this week we are going to talk about the Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie case from last year and our own conspiracy theories about it. But first! We both have had pretty interesting (?) weeks and catching up was a roller coaster of emotions.And to wind everything up, Karyn talked to someone and is doing a lot better, despite the crying that may or may not have happened during the episode.Next week we're going into the case of Jon Koppenhaver and Christie Mack.

I needed a more lighthearted episode to get through this week because my cat got skunked, there's a new person at work, and I thought I was having a heart attack, so here are 7 things on the internet that are driving me bonkers right now1. Facebook Marketplace posts that aren't done properly2. Men on dating apps that are in the women looking for women section3. the "@everyone" in groups 4. ASMR5. People lying on the internet6. Context matters7. What isn't OCD?

Taking a break from our regularly scheduled programming because Karyn is struggling with a life change and can't think of much else right now. Some things last a lifetime, some things don't, and sometimes you don't find out until it's over. On to the next chapter! 

Stepping away from the main content of the first two episodes, we get into people faking mental health concerns, and one of the possible explanations for why the baby boomers have anger issues and what we can do about it (according to Marika, lol, Karyn is not so sure)

This week we discuss characters from the shows we watched as kids and the characters we were obsessed with. How at the time we didn't understand our feelings, and looking back it was always a matter of either "I want to be her" or "I want to be with her." Also the villains in Disney movies growing up and how they were subtly (and sometimes not so subtly) coded into the alphabet mafia.