Shows
Dysfunction JunkiesGiving Back: The Launch of Junkies C.A.R.E.Send us a textMeet Junkies CARE—our heartfelt initiative spotlighting organizations making real differences in communities everywhere. Standing for Community Awareness, Recognition, and Engagement, this monthly special celebrates the people and groups whose missions deserve your attention.Our journey begins exactly where we did—at Ursuline High School in Youngstown, Ohio, where Chrisy and Kerry first met as sophomores. Supporting the Donald E. Foley Senior Alumni Golf Classic feels like coming full circle, paying homage to the institution that sparked their friendship and eventually led to this podcast. The event raises critical funds for stud...2025-08-0114 minDysfunction JunkiesAddictions, Family Secrets, and Finding Our Way ThroughSend us a textAddiction's grip extends far beyond the individual, creating ripple effects that reshape entire family systems. Whether hidden behind closed doors or normalized as "just what they do," these patterns leave lasting impressions on everyone involved.In this deeply personal episode, Chrisy and Kerry explore their contrasting childhood experiences with family addiction. The conversation takes an unexpected turn when they address controversy around their podcast name. After being told that "Dysfunction Junkies" might offend people with substance use disorders, they consulted individuals in recovery who actually appreciated their approach. This opens a...2025-07-3028 minDysfunction JunkiesThe Art of Being Done: When "I'm Done" Becomes Your SuperpowerSend us a textThe struggle to set healthy boundaries often comes loaded with guilt, second-guessing, and that nagging voice suggesting you should just "be the better person." But what if that guilt is actually evidence of how deeply you were trained to abandon yourself for others?In this raw, validating conversation, Chrisy and Kerry explore the challenging terrain of boundary-setting with toxic people, introducing the surprisingly effective concept of "meme therapy" - finding healing through relatable content that perfectly captures our complicated feelings. We share personal stories about reaching the powerful state of being "...2025-07-2333 minDysfunction JunkiesFlash Back Friday: Return the Coat, Keep the DaddySend us a textIn this special Flashback Friday episode, we revisit our popular "Return the Coat, Keep the Daddy" conversation that perfectly captures the complicated relationship we all have with Christmas traditions. From the evolution of shopping habits (hello, daily Amazon deliveries!) to the puzzling experience of helping a parent with dementia buy 27 family puzzles, we explore how the stress and joy of holiday preparations have transformed over time.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post...2025-07-1830 minDysfunction JunkiesLost and Found: How Genealogy Reconnected a FamilySend us a textHave you ever wondered what secrets your DNA might reveal? From long-lost siblings to unexpected ethnic origins, the world of genealogy research is full of surprises—both heartwarming and potentially unsettling. In this candid exploration of ancestry research, we dive deep into the methods both old and new that people use to trace their roots. Whether you're a seasoned genealogist or simply curious about your roots, this episode offers practical resources, personal stories, and thoughtful perspectives on the journey to self-discovery through family history. Be sure to tune in to part two of ou...2025-07-1624 minDysfunction JunkiesWhen Your Italian Heritage Turns Out to Be Only 2% of Your DNASend us a textThe hosts dive deep into the world of consumer DNA testing with contrasting perspectives. Kerry shares her journey of identity recalibration after discovering she's only 2% Northern Italian despite growing up with strong Italian cultural influences. While Chrisy won't even lick an envelope.The conversation takes thought-provoking turns as we consider the broader implications of sharing genetic material. With law enforcement increasingly using these databases to solve crimes through family matching and companies potentially facing bankruptcy or data breaches, is the curiosity worth the potential privacy trade-offs? And what happens when you...2025-07-0924 minDysfunction JunkiesThankful Sunday: Celebrating Milestones and Meme TherapySend us a textThe Dysfunction Junkies podcast has hit a remarkable milestone this month, reaching over 2,000 downloads across 9 countries, spanning numerous states and 152 cities worldwide. Hosts Kerry and Chrisy couldn't contain their excitement during their special Thankful Sunday episode, where they shared their gratitude for the growing community of "Junkies" who tune in regularly to hear their relatable stories and humorous takes on life's dysfunctions.Looking ahead, the hosts teased exciting upcoming episodes on ancestry DNA testing (which Chrisy humorously described as "digging for more dysfunction"), toxic relationships, and creating healthy boundaries. Perhaps most...2025-07-0610 minDysfunction JunkiesWhen Family Gatherings Go Up in Flames: Surviving Summer DysfunctionSend us a textWhy are summer family gatherings sometimes easier to handle than winter ones? As we discover in this raw and revealing episode, it might simply be because you can escape to the backyard when things get tense. But even with more exit strategies, Fourth of July celebrations can still produce lasting trauma.Whether you're dreading family gatherings this holiday weekend or looking forward to them, this episode validates your experiences while offering both serious reflection and much-needed laughter. Join our dysfunction family and discover you're not alone in navigating the complicated emotions...2025-07-0225 minDysfunction JunkiesBirthday Hangover RecapSend us a textBirthday celebrations should be joyful occasions, but for many, they're complex emotional experiences filled with expectations, memories, and sometimes disappointments. Kerry opens up about her deeply complicated relationship with her birthday, particularly the frustration when friends forget despite having "ample warning" from previous podcast episodes. This year was especially challenging as her birthday coincided with Mother's Day—the first since her mother's passing. Join the ladies as they recap birthday stories that range from heartwarming to hilarious.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out ou...2025-06-2525 minDysfunction JunkiesOur Spooky Dysfunction: Is That Your Dead Relative or Just a Random Spirit Passing Through?Send us a textOur Spooky Dysfunction: Is That Your Dead Relative or Just a Random Spirit Passing Through? What happens when a steadfast believer in the paranormal sits down with a committed skeptic? In this thought-provoking episode, Chrissy and Kerry navigate the complex terrain of ghosts, psychics, and signs from beyond—revealing how deeply personal these beliefs truly are.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post polls and other questions for your feedback. We would love to...2025-06-1831 minDysfunction JunkiesFlashback Friday: The Elephant or the ZooSend us a textIn this Flashback Friday episode, the ladies revisit Episode 3: The Elephant or the Zoo. Silence isn't always golden. Join us as Kerry and Chrisy explore what happens when families either ignore or normalize dysfunction. In other words, do they refuse to talk about the Elephant in the room or invite the whole zoo! Kerry and Chrisy share personal stories that reveal the ripple effects of their contrasting family dynamics. Through opening up about these challenging topics, Chrisy and Kerry aim to foster healthier relationships built on empathy, understanding and of course, humor. Tune i...2025-06-1329 minDysfunction JunkiesWhen the Bride Dances with Everyone but the Groom: Red Flags at ReceptionsSend us a textWedding cakes on chandeliers, fondant masterpieces smuggled from Las Vegas hotels, brides dirty dancing with everyone except the groom—these are just a few highlights from our laugh-out-loud part two exploration of wedding dysfunctions.We're picking up where we left off last week, diving into the evolution of wedding cake trends from the elaborate fountain-adorned creations of the 80s to today's artistic fondant designs. Kerry reveals the great cake escape story from her Mandalay Bay wedding, complete with seashells and brown sugar "sand" that had to be wheeled through the casino an...2025-06-1130 minDysfunction JunkiesYour Wedding Day Is Not The Hokey PokeySend us a textWeddings bring out both the best and worst in people, creating unique dysfunction as couples navigate traditions, family expectations, and changing technology.The podcast hosts reflect on how their perspectives on weddings have changed with age and experience. Chrisy acknowledges her "bridezilla" tendencies when she married at 21, focusing primarily on what she wanted with little consideration for her husband's preferences. She prohibited certain reception traditions she found "ridiculous," like the Chicken Dance, Hokey Pokey, and other group dances. Kerry, having been married multiple times, shares how each subsequent wedding became simpler...2025-06-0428 minDysfunction JunkiesThankful Sunday: From Grief to GratitudeSend us a textLoss and celebration dance together in this heartfelt episode as Kerry shares the peaceful passing of her mother. "Mom not only taught us how to live, but she taught us how to die," she reflects, finding beauty in farewell while honoring her mother's memory. The conversation shifts to birthday celebrations and childhood treasures—from vintage Fisher Price trains to nostalgic Wheel of Fortune watches—revealing how we cling to physical reminders of our past.The true magic happens when our listener community takes center stage. Jason solves the longstanding mystery of "Fela...2025-06-0112 minDysfunction JunkiesWhen Dad Got Hooked: Summer Vacation Disasters We Still Laugh AboutSend us a textSummer memories have a way of revealing our deepest family dynamics, don't they? Kerry and Chrisy peel back the layers of their childhood summer traditions to expose the complex family relationships underneath. Their stories—from pool opening rituals to fishing mishaps—are both hilarious and surprisingly poignant.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post polls and other questions for your feedback. We would love to hear from you, and if you like our show...2025-05-2827 minDysfunction JunkiesThe Dysfunction of Prom Culture: From Formal Dances to PromposalsSend us a textRemember the dramatic entrance, the nerve-wracking search for the perfect dress, and the unspoken pressure of needing a date? Prom season sparks a fascinating conversation between hosts Chrisy and Kerry about how this quintessential high school experience has evolved over the decades.#prom #dysfunctionjunkiespodcast #promposals Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post polls and other questions for your feedback. We would love to hear from you, and if you like our show please t...2025-05-2128 minDysfunction JunkiesThe Dysfunction of Healthcare: When Your Body Speaks But Doctors Don't ListenSend us a textHave you ever had a nagging feeling something wasn't right with your body, only to have healthcare professionals dismiss your concerns as "normal aging" or "just stress"? In this deeply personal episode, Chrisy and Kerry pull back the curtain on their difficult journeys to diagnosis and the frustrating reality many patients face when seeking answers. Join us this week as we discuss the dysfunction of healthcare.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post p...2025-05-1428 minDysfunction JunkiesThankful Sundays: Happy Mother's DaySend us a textSomething beautiful happens when gratitude becomes intentional. Today marks the launch of "Thankful Sundays," our new monthly tradition dedicated to celebrating you – our growing dysfunction family spanning three continents and seven countries!The universe has a funny way of aligning special moments, so it feels utterly perfect that our first Thankful Sunday coincides with both Mother's Day and Kerry's birthday. From Sweden to Pakistan, from coast to coast across America, we're marveling at how our voices have traveled to places we never imagined reaching.Support the showTh...2025-05-1113 minDysfunction JunkiesYour Birthday Should Be Your Day, Not A Sidebar To Mother's DaySend us a textWhat happens when your birthday consistently falls near Mother's Day or Father's Day? Both hosts share how their special days were often overshadowed or completely forgotten due to holiday overlap, creating lasting impacts on how they approach celebrations. Kerry's visceral anxiety around her birthday stems from childhood disappointments, manifesting in a coping mechanism of planning her own getaways to avoid potential hurt. Her story resonates with anyone who's ever felt invisible on the one day meant to celebrate them.The conversation takes a thoughtful turn when examining how childhood e...2025-05-0731 minDysfunction JunkiesFlash Back Friday: The HolidaysSend us a textWelcome to “Flash Back Fridays” Where once a month we will feature a throwback episode. For our first throwback Friday its only appropriate we start with our number one downloaded episode from the very beginning the most dysfunctional time of year: The Holidays!Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post polls and other questions for your feedback. We would love to hear from you, and if you like o...2025-05-0240 minDysfunction JunkiesTacos, Traditions, and Unpronounceable Family RecipesSend us a textAs Cinco de Mayo approaches, they reflect on how American food habits have evolved and how celebration foods connect us across cultural boundaries. Food binds families together with delicious memories, but what happens when those cherished recipes come with names nobody can pronounce or find on Google? Chrisy and Kerry take listeners on a hilarious journey through their family food traditions, revealing the dishes that defined their childhoods and continue to shape their identities today.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check...2025-04-3029 minDysfunction JunkiesJelly Beans and Jesus: Finding the Hidden BasketSend us a textCold kielbasa: culinary delight or horrifying Easter tradition? Ever had to hunt for your ENTIRE Easter basket as a kid? Some families hide eggs, others hide the whole basket! Our latest episode explores childhood Easter memories both wholesome and hilarious. Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post polls and other questions for your feedback. We would love to hear from you, and if you like our show please take a moment to give u...2025-04-2335 minDysfunction JunkiesThe Original Uncut Ash Wednesday EpisodeSend us a textWhat happens when two Catholic school survivors dissect religious traditions with equal parts reverence and humor? This uncut Ash Wednesday episode of Dysfunction Junkies delivers a candid exploration of Catholic upbringing that will resonate with anyone who's navigated religious traditions. Be sure to tune in and enjoy.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post polls and other questions for your feedback. We would love to hear from you, and if you like our...2025-04-1632 minDysfunction JunkiesThe Last Goodbye: Funeral Politics and Family DramaSend us a textDeath may be universal, but funeral etiquette remains surprisingly complex territory—filled with unwritten rules and unexpected social landmines. We're diving deep into the politics of saying goodbye in this candid continuation of our funeral conversation.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post polls and other questions for your feedback. We would love to hear from you, and if you like our show please take a moment to give us a Five Star Re...2025-04-1128 minDysfunction JunkiesCaskets and Awkwardness: Real Talk About Funeral Etiquette Part 1Send us a textDeath has a way of bringing out the complicated, messy, and sometimes absurd qualities in families – and nowhere is this more evident than at funerals. Kerry and Chrisy take listeners on a journey through the peculiar social dynamics that emerge when we gather to say goodbye to loved ones.Support the showThank you for listening. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for additional content. We often post polls and other questions for your feedback. We would love to hear from you, and if you li...2025-04-0930 min