PODCAST · society
Just Jess
by Jess Faulkner
Just Jess is a raw, unfiltered podcast diving into health, mental health, and the tough, often stigmatized topics most people shy away from. From personal experiences to deep discussions on medical ethics, social issues, and beyond—Jess challenges the norm, asks the hard questions, and gives a voice to stories that need to be heard.
Episodes
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Episode 041: Identity Uncensored
In this episode, Jess takes listeners on a deeper, fuller journey into queerness — what it means, where it comes from, how language has evolved, and how community shapes identity. From pansexual to ace, from trans masc to nonbinary, Jess breaks down the words we use with clarity, compassion, and…
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Episode 040. Steel, Soul, and Sandwiches.
In this episode, Jess explores the flavor, language, and grit of Pittsburgh — from the Steel City’s immigrant roots to the diner counters and hospital halls that still define it today. Featuring stories from the Glassport Diner, deep dives into local food staples like Primanti Bros. and Turner’s...
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Episode 039. The Aftermath of October.
October was heavy — chemo, Wig Out, grief, and growth. In this episode, Jess sits down in the quiet after the chaos to talk about what comes next: healing, exhaustion, and finding light in the aftermath. This is Jess's FIRST video episode of Just Jess. -reSolve Crisis Services (Allegheny County)…
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Episode 038. Haunted Hearts & Living Ghosts
Trigger Warning: Murder, sexual violence, and death. In this haunting Halloween episode of Just Jess, I explore the stories that linger — the souls we remember, and the darkness we refuse to glorify. From infamous true crimes to the invisible scars they leave behind, this episode asks what it...
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Episode 037: The Culture of Killers.
Listener Warning: This episode contains discussions of violence, serial murder, mental illness, and true crime. Listener discretion is advised. These stories are told to educate, not to glorify. In this episode, Jess Faulkner explores the darkness beneath our fascination with true crime and…
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Episode 036 — The Real Monster: Ed Gein and the Men Who Played Him.
In this haunting deep dive, Jess Faulkner unpacks the true story behind one of America’s most infamous killers—and the myths that Hollywood built around him. Through fact, psychology, and dramatized storytelling, Jess explores Ed Gein’s fractured mind, Ryan Murphy’s chilling reinterpretation, and...
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Episode 035 - The Smiley Face Killer: Myth, Murder, or Mass Hysteria?
Whispers ripple through Pittsburgh’s bars and bridges: a serial killer hiding in plain sight, leaving a smile behind. In this haunting, research-driven episode, Jess Faulkner traces the origins of the Smiley Face Murder Theory—from the 1990s detectives who first connected mysterious drownings to...
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Episode .034 : The Foster Care System
In this episode, we explored the structural and human dimensions of the foster care system — the challenges youth face when entering and aging out of care, how trauma and identity shape their experiences, and what support systems (or gaps) exist for foster youth, caregivers, and agencies. We also...
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Episode .033 - Suicide Awareness Month
In this special episode of Just Jess, I open up about suicide, survival, and the stories that shaped me. I talk about my friend Dennis, whose struggle with opioids and alcohol ended in tragedy, and my own darkest moments—including a major suicide attempt in 2006 and the times I sat in a closet…
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Episode .032 Deep Dive Into 'Unknown Number'.
In this episode of Just Jess, I dive into Netflix’s shocking documentary Unknown Number: The High School Catfish. What starts as a terrifying case of anonymous harassment against two teenagers unravels into one of the most twisted betrayals imaginable — a mother tormenting her own daughter. I…
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Episode .031 : Jess in the 'Burgh
After a month of chaos, lost pods, and living without a bed, Jess has officially landed in Pittsburgh—and she’s ready to tell the story. From climbing over boxes just to make it to the bathroom, to discovering life-changing pierogies and pizza, this comeback episode is raw, funny, and full of...
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030. Living with Chronic Pain
In this deeply personal episode, Jess opens up about the relentless bone pain caused by her rare blood cancer, Essential Thrombocythemia. She breaks down what chronic pain really feels like, the emotional toll of managing it, and why she’s choosing nerve ablation as a next step. With raw honesty,...
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029. Nevaeh's Story
In this deeply moving episode, Jess sits down with a local Sumter mom to talk about the unimaginable—the loss of her child. Together, they explore the raw terrain of grief, the quiet moments of strength, and the ways a mother continues to honor her child’s memory while navigating life after loss....
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028.7 Colonoscopy Chronicles
Jess recounts the wild, uncomfortable, and slightly chaotic experience of their most recent colonoscopy—complete with burning IVs, double sedation attempts, and a surprise post-op hangover that still hasn’t worn off. Two polyps removed, IBS confirmed, and a whole lot of “what the hell just...
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028.5 Pre-Colonoscopy Check-in
Just a brief hello from Jess, a little update, a little mess, and all...Just Jess.
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028. A Letter to Lizzie
In this deeply personal episode, Jess opens their heart and shares a letter written to the daughter they gave up for adoption at nineteen—Lizzie. With raw honesty, tenderness, and courage, Jess revisits the pain of letting go, the complexity of love from afar, and the dreams they’ve always held…
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027. Mental Health Meds & Mayhem
Listeners Be Advised Surviving your diagnosis is only half the battle — surviving the meds is the other. In this raw and brutally honest episode, Jess Faulkner opens up about the real cost of life-saving medications: side effects, withdrawal, polypharmacy chaos, and the everyday fight to keep...
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026.5 What's in this Bitch's Bag?
You ever wonder what a chronically ill, chaos-driven, emotionally loaded person keeps in their survival bags? Today, we’re getting real. In this mini episode, I’m taking you through my everyday clutch and my hospital emergency bag — the essentials, the ridiculous, the sentimental, and the…
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026. Permission to Start Over
Starting over isn’t failure — it’s survival. In this episode, Jess gets real about what it means to shed old lives, old dreams, and old versions of yourself in order to rebuild something new. From bounty hunter to cannagirl to survivor of homelessness and heartbreak, Jess shares raw stories of…
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025. Grief: How Loss Lives Under Your Skin
(LISTENERS BE ADVISED) Grief isn’t just an emotion — it’s a full-body experience. It shows up in your skin, your bones, your lungs, and your heart. In this episode, Jess talks about how grief physically and emotionally affects us, why it doesn’t follow a straight line, and how we can survive it...
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024. Parenting Through the Apocalypse
What does it mean to raise kids when the world feels like it’s constantly on fire? In this episode, Jess gets real about the heavy reality of parenting during chaotic times — from global pandemics to mass shootings, climate change, political unrest, and everything in between. It’s about raising...
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023.5. A Day in the Life of a Sick Bitch.
🩺 Episode 023.5 – Life as a Sick Bitch In this short but honest check-in, Jess shares what it really looks like to live with chronic illness while parenting, managing meds, and just trying to stay awake. From pain flare-ups to kitchen table chaos, it’s a behind-the-scenes glimpse at a life built...
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023. Shared Scars with Anyssa
In this episode, Jess Faulkner and her friend Anyssa delve into the complexities of shared trauma, healing, and the importance of friendship. They explore personal experiences of survival, the impact of mental health, and the significance of support systems. The conversation highlights the…
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022.5 - Sedated... in Theory
Jess talks about recent medical trauma regarding her Bone Marrow Biopsy. Listeners, be advised.
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022. Circumcision: Necessary or Tradition?
Be advised. In this episode, Jess Faulkner delves into the sensitive topics of circumcision and female genital mutilation (FGM), exploring their historical, cultural, and ethical implications. The conversation begins with personal updates and transitions into a discussion about the societal norms...
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021.7 Horror, Healing, and Hella Good News
Just a quick update!
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021.5 - Lorelei : The 7 y.o. Cystic Fibrosis Warrior Princess
In this special episode, Jess shares the story of Lorelei, a brave 7-year-old living with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Through honest conversation and deep compassion, this episode highlights what it means to live with a chronic illness from such a young age—and why awareness, support, and advocacy…
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021. Transgender & The Truth
This conversation explores the realities of transgender lives, addressing the myths and misinformation surrounding trans identities, the importance of support systems, and the impact of current legislation on trans rights. It emphasizes the need for education, understanding, and advocacy to…
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020.5 - Mary's Lake : The Interview
In this bonus feature, Jess sits down with the cast and crew behind Mary’s Lake—a locally made supernatural slasher film written and directed by Mark A. Williams. Recorded on set in Sumter, SC, this episode dives into the passion, process, and paranormal twists behind the horror film everyone…
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020. Jess, The Comeback Kid
020. The first episode of Season 2! In this episode, Jess Faulkner shares her journey of resilience and personal growth, reflecting on her struggles with health, family dynamics, and the importance of community. She discusses the challenges of making difficult choices for mental well-being, the…
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Welcome to Season Two!
Season Two is here, baby—and Jess is back with more grit, heart, and brutally honest storytelling. Jess also introduces the themes for this season (hello, #SickBitchSummer), gives a sneak peek at upcoming guest episodes, and breaks down their full med list—no filter, no fluff. Expect laughter,...
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Season Two Bonus Update!
🎙️✨ It’s happening. ✨🎙️ I just dropped a little surprise — a brand new teaser for Season 2 of Just Jess! (And honestly? I missed you.) It’s short, it’s sweet, it’s a little chaotic — and it’s your first look at everything I’ve been working on behind the scenes. New episodes start May 7th at 7AM 🖤
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Jess of All Trades
Before Season 2 officially begins, Jess takes a moment to reflect on the many lives she’s lived—bounty hunter, model, chef, writer, caregiver, survivor—and how each identity shaped the woman behind the mic. With raw honesty, grit, and a little poetry, this teaser episode is a love letter to...
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Your Sick Bitch Tour Guide for #SickBitchSummer
Get ready, everyone. Here comes #SickBitchSummer with Jess Faulkner on Just Jess.
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019.5 I'm Still Standing
In this episode, Jess Faulkner shares her journey of resilience and personal growth after facing significant challenges in her life. She discusses her struggles with mental health, chronic illness, and the importance of community support. Jess introduces the upcoming season of her podcast,...
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019. Birthdays & Updates
Here is a brief update
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018. Manic or Depressed
In this episode, I catch you up on everything that's been happening.
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016. Sexual Assault and Statistics
In this episode, I talk about sexual assualt and the statistics of sexual assault. Listeners be advised.
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015. A Transgender Talk with Charlie
In today's episode, Jess and Charlie talk transgender information and about their time in Sumter and Columbia
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014. Addicted To Love
In this episode, Jess talks about sex addiction, hypersexuality, and histrionic personality disorder.
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013. Episode Thirteen
Jess talks Borderline Personality Disorder.
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012. The Rise of the Phoenix
I discuss starting from square one.
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011. Spiritual Uprising and Spaghetti
In today's episode, I discuss religion and give recipes for spaghetti.
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010. Surviving Childhood Sex Abuse with Jennifer Rodrigues
In today's episode, I sit down with Jennifer Rodrigues as I tell her story and learn more about her journey through childhood sex abuse.
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009. Jess, The Gentle Parent
In this episode, I give some life updates and discuss parenting while highlighting some fact about gentle parenting.
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008. The Long Summer of '97
On today's episode, I talk about childhood sexual abuse.
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007. Miserable at Best
In today's episode, things will be a bit different. I'll give an important health update, life updates, and talk a bit about what the future holds.
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006. Postpartum Problems, Poetry, and A Birthing Story w/ Jessica Jocelyn
Join me and poet Jessica Jocelyn as we discuss Postpartum depression. I'll read some of her poems from her book Ever More and share my own traumatic birthing story.
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005. Survival, Salsa, & Solidarity
*Trigger Warning* This episode talks about themes of rape, abuse, and assault. Please be advised.
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004. Bipolar Disorder & Tea Sandwiches
*Trigger Warning* This episodes contains sensitive contect. Be advised. In this episode I discuss bipolar disorder and give you my recipe for tea sandwiches.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Just Jess is a raw, unfiltered podcast diving into health, mental health, and the tough, often stigmatized topics most people shy away from. From personal experiences to deep discussions on medical ethics, social issues, and beyond—Jess challenges the norm, asks the hard questions, and gives a voice to stories that need to be heard.
HOSTED BY
Jess Faulkner
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Just Jess have?
Just Jess currently has 55 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Just Jess about?
Just Jess is a raw, unfiltered podcast diving into health, mental health, and the tough, often stigmatized topics most people shy away from. From personal experiences to deep discussions on medical ethics, social issues, and beyond—Jess challenges the norm, asks the hard questions, and gives a...
How often does Just Jess release new episodes?
Just Jess has 55 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Just Jess?
You can listen to Just Jess on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Just Jess?
Just Jess is created and hosted by Jess Faulkner.
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