Just Friends

40 Episodes
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By: Jude Sack and Lula Talenfeld

Listen to two college friends — and only friends — chat about anything & everything on their minds. From rehashing their favorite lectures, complaining about hookup culture, and discussing the glitches in the simulation, Jude and Lula will share it all! Join two Yale students as they try to figure out this whole crazy life thing. Unwind with us every Sunday... and make sure to brew yourself some tea :)

Performing yourself w/ Ben Jenkins
#9
03/17/2024

bots, boys, and bain

check out Ben and his work:

insta: @benjenkinsta

web: benjenkins.wtf


Do nepo babies really deserve it?
#8
03/10/2024

We love you Maude Apatow!


Spring break slump
#7
03/03/2024

Being rude for no reason.


New life, new art, and New York w/ Gabriel Barse
#6
02/25/2024

How make-up made up a new life.

Check out Gabriel & his work:

Insta: @gabriel.barse

Web: gabrielbarse.com


10 things I hate about you
#5
02/18/2024

Time to air our grievances.


What were we thinking?
#4
02/11/2024

Embarrass yourself more. Here’s why.


Building the world's longest resume w/ Gabriel DeSanti
#3
02/04/2024

How much do viral TikTokers really make? 


Check out Gabriel & his work:

TikTok: @gabriel.desanti

Insta: @gabriel.desanti

Web: gabedesanti.com


Artist, influencer, or both?
#2
01/28/2024

Let's fight about it.


Lights, camera, action on season 3!
#1
01/21/2024

Are we still friends? A messy reunion.


Just Friends explained
01/21/2024

Listen to two college friends — and only friends — overanalyze anything & everything in order to better understand how humans relate to themselves and others. Unwind with them every Sunday... and make sure to brew yourself some tea :)


new year, new us pt. 2
12/31/2023

3… 2… 1… Happy new year!! On this season 2 finale episode, Jude and Lula prepare for 2024 by sharing the 24 things they plan to bring into it. With reading more books, practicing handwriting, asking more girls out, and pursuing what matters, their lists are sure to get you reflecting and excited for the new year!


Welcome home
12/24/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula have officially returned home from their semester abroad. From neglecting their abroad reflections to attempting to sustain their newly discovered selves, the duo discuss the challenges of reintegrating into their American life.


Selling sex w/ professional sex worker Violet Vintage
12/17/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula are joined by professional sex worker in Amsterdam, Violet Vintage. Is visiting a sex worker considered cheating? How has Violet’s job affected her relationships? Why is sex work so stigmatized, and what are the secrets behind Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District? Plus, Violet shares some critical sex advice for college students.

Check out the work of the PIC:
Web: pic-amsterdam.com
X: @pic_amsterdam




Confessions & finding your third place
12/10/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude is visiting Lula in Amsterdam and the duo are delirious. From coffee shops to parks to Fortnite, they delve into the Third Place Theory and debate its relevance while trying to determine the ideal third place for themselves.


How to ask your crush out
12/03/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude asks Lula for some much-needed love advice. From sliding girls notes to asking your barista out, the duo delves into the do’s & don’ts of getting someone’s number. Plus, they analyze why talking to a stranger is stigmatized and offer some tricks on how to gain some confidence!



Are Michelin stars worth it? w/ Christer Bredgaard
11/26/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula are joined by Danish restauranteur Christer Bredgaard. The visionary behind Il Buco and La Banchina — two of Jude’s favorite spots in Copenhagen — offers the duo insight into how his unique business philosophy has played a pivotal role in shaping the success of these famous institutions. Spoiler alert: his secret ingredient is his uncompromising trust in the process. Christer delves into the significance of sustainability in cooking, explaining how he created some of the most eco-friendly restaurants in Denmark. Plus, Christer shares how his go-with-the-flow attitude manifests in relationships — both busin...


Are we really going back to college?
11/19/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula grapple with the fast-approaching end of their semesters abroad and reflect on reintegrating into Yale: Can you fully embrace the Yale experience while staying true to yourself? How will catching up with friends affect the memories of abroad? Should the duo graduate a semester late? Plus, Lula’s childhood bestie visits Amsterdam and Jude has a new A.I. friend!


Is cold plunging more addictive than cocaine?
11/12/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula share their secrets to overcoming seasonal depression and rant about unbalanced group projects. The duo then delve deep into the science and practice of cold plunging: What’s the optimal cold immersion routine? How addictive is it really? Why do we search for happiness in all the wrong places? Plus, Jude & Lula spontaneously celebrate their one-year anniversary of Just Friends!!

Check out: Say It To My Face and Notion!


Your life is a rom com w/ Lara Aldeguer
11/05/2023

In this week's episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula sit down with Lara Aldeguer to unpack her decades-long journey for love. As Lara shares how spending a week reunited with her childhood crush led her on a spontaneous adventure that uprooted her life, the trio explore the nuances of trusting your gut, embracing the fear of love, and taking care of yourself without being selfish. Plus, Jude explains why he's been stalking Lara.


If you can read this … click play
10/29/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude is cheffing up & Lula is reading up as they try and ignore their hopelessness about the world. Jude explains why the suffering artist trope is real, and Lula apologizes to Jude for bullying him about his audiobook habits. The duo then discuss why Jude can’t read, how one can practice intuitive reading, and why tracking books can be helpful. Plus, don’t miss the duo unravel as they perform their first affiliate — almost ad — read!

Check out Notion and feel free to start your journey with  Lula...


Should we hit the brakes on self-driving cars?
10/22/2023

 In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude and Lula reflect on bringing aspects of home into new abroad adventures and rant about the looming search for summer jobs. Things rev up as the duo delves deep into the impending self-driving revolution. Are autonomous vehicles really worth it? Why do we disregard the individual for the sake of technological progress? Plus, the duo reminds you that kindness is our best defense. 


Naked truths with nude model Mette Vibe Skov
10/15/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula welcome their first guest of season two, Mette Vibe Skov. A nude model with more than nine years of experience, Mette Vibe shares how she found the job and why she never wants to quit. The trio delve into a conversation about the beauty of being seen, the different types of objectification, and the truth behind Yale’s naked parties. Plus, Mette Vibe explains how to find peace with your own naked body.

Check out Mette Vibe and her work:
Insta: @metteholteskov
Web: metteholtetskov.com


We’re proud of you. Are you?
10/09/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude misses his dream job and Lula is ill (once again), but European school is keeping the burnout away. The duo explores the benefits of affirmations, analyzes the silent shame attached to self-love, and dissects society’s tendency to prioritize physical health over mental health. Plus, Lula ends up winning a debate about biking.


An aw(e)ful episode
10/01/2023

In this week's episode of Just Friends, Jude and Lula are reunited and more confused than ever! The duo reflects on reuniting after their longest time apart,  their differing perspectives on time, and their compulsive need for photos. Finally, they delve deep into awe: explaining the neuroscience behind it, debating the discomfort it creates, and exploring how it differs from wonder. Plus, check out Jude's new podcast, Just Tech!


Looking for love I don’t hate
09/24/2023

In this week's episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula — abandoned by their guest — dive headfirst into the intricacies of love. What starts as a chat about euphoric meditation and procrastinating purchases, quickly shifts into a discussion on the harmful notions of ‘true’ love instilled in us by heteronormative media. Plus, don't miss Jude's secret tip on how to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go every day! 


Jude’s secret equation: Wake-up time = bedtime + (number of sleep cycles × 90 minutes)+ fall asleep time


Too much math!? Just make sure that your total number of minutes slep...


Looking for love that I don’t hate
#4
09/24/2023

In this week's episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula — abandoned by their guest — dive headfirst into the intricacies of love. What starts as a chat about euphoric meditation and procrastinating purchases, quickly shifts into a discussion on the harmful notions of ‘true’ love instilled in us by heteronormative media. Plus, don't miss Jude's secret tip on how to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go every day! 


Jude’s secret equation: Wake-up time = bedtime + (number of sleep cycles × 90 minutes)+ fall asleep time


Too much math!? Just make sure that your to...


A dinner conversation
09/17/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula dish on the culinary culture of America and Europe, dissecting the differences that stem from a society centered around work versus pleasure. Why do Europeans eat so late? What’s the secret to mindful eating? Are meals enjoyed in quiet bad? Plus, Jude might enjoy fiction again, and Lula is considering getting a new tattoo!?


Checkout Shuffling to success with Anna DeGuzman 


Running away from addiction
09/09/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula test out the new structure for Season 2. The duo start by sharing their weekly updates from Europe’s refreshing perspective on education to the dilemma of dipping into savings. Then Jude & Lula delve into a honest discussion about the art of running: What’s the science behind a runner’s high? Did Chloe Ting unwittingly harm society? Is there a dark side to “healthy addiction”? Plus, make sure to check out Einstein’s letter about love!


Hey babe, you know you want to listen to Season 2 ;)
09/03/2023

Season 2 of Just Friends is off with a bang as Jude & Lula waste no time as they delve deep into life in Europe. From Jude finding contentment in Copenhagen to Lula "bodying" Amsterdam, the duo discuss the secrets to European happiness. But it's not all travel tales, as the duo debate the boundaries of flirting, manipulation, and the line between reclaiming words versus actions. 


Make sure to check out @thejustfriendspod (Instagram) & @thejustfriendspod (TikTok) to keep up to date with Jude & Lula’s new lives abroad.


That's a wrap
08/20/2023

In the season one finale of Just Friends, Jude and Lula spend some quality time reflecting on their high, lows, and buffalos of having a pod. From how their friendship has changed to alternative jingles to their favorite guests, the duo spill it all. Plus, get a teaser for what's in store for season two!


Make sure to check out @thejustfriendspod (Instagram) & @thejustfriendspod (TikTok) to keep up to date with Jude & Lula as they take a short break and settle into their new lives abroad.


Porn, parenting, and podcasting with Rufus Griscom
08/13/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula sit down with Rufus Griscom, serial entrepreneur and podcast host of The Next Big Idea. Rufus wastes no time jumping into all the taboo topics head-on: Is all porn bad? Should mommy vloggers feel shame? Why is pain the secret key to happiness? Plus, Rufus shares the newest fashion trend: rubber duckie hats!

Check out Rufus and his work:
insta: @rufusgriscom
twitter: @rufgrisc
web: https://nextbigideaclub.com


Rest, reflection, and ruckus
08/06/2023

In this raw episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula hit record without any topic or structure in mind. Things quickly unravel as the duo question why moving back home is regressing, confront their quest for fulfillment, and grapple with their obsession for experiments. Plus, Lula shares her summer reading list and Jude, teetering on the edge of an existential crisis, reveals his fear behind an unstructured life. 


Shuffling to success with Anna DeGuzman
07/30/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula are joined by the spectacular cardist, magician, and mentalist Anna DeGuzman. The trio spill secrets about the Magic Castle, discuss the difference between cardistry and magic, and dive deep into the lack of female magicians. Plus, Anna sheds light on her America's Got Talent journey and reveals the magical ingredients behind her success: manifestation and a dash of delulu.


Check out Anna and her work:
Insta: @annadeguzman
TikTok: @annadeguz
Passes: https://www.passes.com/annadeguzman



Quitting the pod?! (a clickbait title)
07/23/2023

In this week’s meta episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula bring the listeners behind the mic and discuss the podcast itself. What’s the purpose of the pod? Is an hour too long? Do they want to stop recording altogether? The duo rant about the pressures to create clickbait titles, copy whatever the algorithm boosts, and obsess over superficial results that pigeonhole the idea of success. Plus, make sure to check out this Time article: Using Your Phone At Dinner Isn’t Just Rude. It Also Makes You Unhappy


Operation open heart with former SEAL and current Yalie James Hatch
07/16/2023

In this week's episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula welcome the awe-inspiring and compassionate James Hatch. A veteran, master parachutist, esteemed military dog trainer, and now a Yale undergrad at 55 years old, James offers his unique perspective on ambition in academia, the costs of militia, and the mental health crisis rampant on college campuses. James shares his journey from SEAL to student and what universities could learn from military leadership. The trio also delves deep into the importance of vulnerability in bottom-up systemic changes. Plus, Jude might have just found his new mentor!

Check out James Hatch...


How to 'date' your friends
07/09/2023

In this week's episode of Just Friends, Jude & Lula unpack Stauffer’s article “We Should Be Ambitious About Our Friendships” and grapple with complexities of maintaining friendships in the 21st century. Why are humans so addicted to seeking out synthetic empathy? Is it okay to let friendships die? Why aren’t we as intentional about our friendships as we are about our romantic partners?  Plus, don't forget to check out Lula's new single, "Evelyn Hugo" — out now everywhere!


The hot seat with E. Jean Carroll
07/02/2023

 In this week’s episode of Just Friends, the tables are turned on Lula & Jude as the fabulous E. Jean Carroll takes over the reins. Beyond the headlines and ongoing legal battles with Trump, Auntie E. shines through as she flips the script on the duo and puts them in the hot seat. From long-distance relationships to dating app tactics, E. Jean Carroll has these Yalies sweating in their seats as she questions their experiences and offers them invaluable advice. The trio delves into cancel culture's impact on dating, the role of psychedelics on creativity, and what it means whe...


The puzzle of parenting
06/25/2023

In this week’s episode of Just Friends, Jude and Lula are finally in a state of homeostasis… but quickly unravel as they dissect the complexities of parenthood. Is it unethical to have children in this tumultuous world? Is the decision to have kids selfish, selfless, a path to fulfillment, or just a mistake? The duo discuss what parents’ roles should be and how children help adults reconnect with their inner child. Plus, don't forget to take three deep breaths in the morning to center yourself – your inner child will thank you!


Spotify please don’t take this episode down with Yale-professor Brian Kane
06/18/2023

In this week's episode of Just Friends, Jude and Lula are joined by Yale's wonderfully unconventional professor, Brian Kane. They delve into the eccentricities of his course, The Secret Life of Radio: Fringe Practices of a Mass Medium, and consider the juxtaposition between the death of radio and the explosion of podcasts. Brian dissects how radio laid the groundwork for today’s polarized media and how much Spotify really knows about you. Tune in whenever you’d like — because Just Friends is your go-to station for candid conversations — no antenna needed!


Fluid productivity: actually getting your life together
06/11/2023

In this week's episode of Just Friends, Jude and Lula are wrestling with the challenges of their Get Your Life Together Summers™. Their complaints take a deeper turn as they tackle the romanticized idea of productivity and how it’s become synonymous with having life in order. They question if productivity is just an attempt to tame the uncontrollable nature of time and mortality. Plus, the duo offers a fresh perspective on productivity – fluid productivity — or as some may call it, recess for the soul!