JJ Unplugged S01E04: Pretending
In this episode, we go deep on the theme of pretending - in relationships, at work, on stage, and even with ourselves. From Jake’s story of growing up gay in Latvia to Jen’s take on emotional masks and attachment styles, we explore why pretending becomes survival… and how authenticity starts to feel like rebellion.
Welcome to Episode 4 of JJ Unplugged. This one’s close to the heart.
We unpack:
Why pretending starts early and often sticks
Growing up queer in a conservative culture
The performance of safety: at work, at home, and on stage
Attachment styles, emotional regulation, and overstimulation
Why “being yourself” isn’t always an option and how to choose it anyway
Farting, soup-based coming outs, and the persona named Igor
This episode is vulnerable, honest, and packed with the kinds of stories that rarely get told out loud. If you’ve ever had to edit yourself to feel safe, you’re not alone.
Content Note: Includes themes of queerness, identity masking, family trauma, and emotional dysregulation.
P.S. We’re not medical or mental health professionals. Everything we share on this podcast is based on our own personal experiences and opinions. If you’re dealing with any mental health concerns, we always recommend speaking to a qualified professional.
