Shows
Meaningless Problems#52 Hope for the WorstWhen Poppy announces she wants to kill herself, her playwright husband employs a peculiar coping technique.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent does negative visualisation make you grateful for what you have?
Comedy - Philosophy - Stoicism
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives by David Eagleman ...
2024-02-2544 minMeaningless Problems#52 Hope for the WorstWhen Poppy announces she wants to kill herself, her playwright husband employs a peculiar coping technique.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent does negative visualisation make you grateful for what you have?
Comedy - Philosophy - Stoicism
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives by David Eagleman ...
2024-02-2544 minMeaningless Problems#51 What Was the Point?Having spent a year writing short stories for a podcast, the writer wonders what was the point.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
What was the point of this short story podcast?
Comedy - Philosophy - Plumbing
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives by David Eagleman
The ‘Theories...
2024-02-1815 minMeaningless Problems#51 What Was the Point?Having spent a year writing short stories for a podcast, the writer wonders what was the point.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
What was the point of this short story podcast?
Comedy - Philosophy - Plumbing
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives by David Eagleman
The ‘Theories...
2024-02-1815 minMeaningless Problems#50 What Do You Do?Lost in thought at a funeral, our narrator sets out a compelling case for why we should never ask anyone what they do for a living.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent does your job define who you are?
What Do You Do is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information about upcoming stories and live perform...
2024-02-1112 minMeaningless Problems#50 What Do You Do?Lost in thought at a funeral, our narrator sets out a compelling case for why we should never ask anyone what they do for a living.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent does your job define who you are?
What Do You Do is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information about upcoming stories and live perform...
2024-02-1112 minMeaningless Problems#49 It Might as Well BeBusinessman Nathan Norrie calls upon a spiritual guide to help improve the atmosphere among his work colleagues. The guide offers three peals of wisdom.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
If a message is true, does it matter if the messenger is dishonest?
It Might as Well Be is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information about upcoming stories and...
2024-02-0419 minMeaningless Problems#49 It Might as Well BeBusinessman Nathan Norrie calls upon a spiritual guide to help improve the atmosphere among his work colleagues. The guide offers three peals of wisdom.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
If a message is true, does it matter if the messenger is dishonest?
It Might as Well Be is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information about upcoming stories and...
2024-02-0419 minMeaningless Problems#48 The Meaning of WorkThe prime minister is facing the biggest strike in British history. But the strikers are the last people she’d expect to strike. And their reason for striking is even more surprising.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Can you truly be rich if your life lacks meaning?
The Meaning of Work is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For informatio...
2024-01-2816 minMeaningless Problems#48 The Meaning of WorkThe prime minister is facing the biggest strike in British history. But the strikers are the last people she’d expect to strike. And their reason for striking is even more surprising.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Can you truly be rich if your life lacks meaning?
The Meaning of Work is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For informatio...
2024-01-2816 minMeaningless Problems#47 Tony’s VibeTony’s tried everything to make himself more employable, more dateable, more popular. He’s tried life coaches, elocution coaches, therapists, personal trainers but he’s looking in the wrong place. He’s not the problem. I am. I am Tony’s vibe.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent can a person be aware of their own vibe?
Comedy - Philosophy - Politics
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/ ...
2024-01-2110 minMeaningless Problems#47 Tony’s VibeTony’s tried everything to make himself more employable, more dateable, more popular. He’s tried life coaches, elocution coaches, therapists, personal trainers but he’s looking in the wrong place. He’s not the problem. I am. I am Tony’s vibe.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent can a person be aware of their own vibe?
Comedy - Philosophy - Politics
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/ ...
2024-01-2110 minMeaningless Problems#46 Culling CobrasMember of Parliament Lawrence Sitwell is frustrated by the failure of his political career. A conversation with an old friend causes him to rethink everything.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
When politicians try to make something better, are they more likely to make it worse?
Comedy - Philosophy - Politics
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
A...
2024-01-1412 minMeaningless Problems#46 Culling CobrasMember of Parliament Lawrence Sitwell is frustrated by the failure of his political career. A conversation with an old friend causes him to rethink everything.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
When politicians try to make something better, are they more likely to make it worse?
Comedy - Philosophy - Politics
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
A...
2024-01-1412 minMeaningless Problems#45 The Weight of AchievementIn Bernard’s local pub, everyone carries their life’s achievements with them in a big black bag.
Philosophy - Spirituality - Absurdism
The Weight of Achievement is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Something to consider when reading/listening:
If you were never allowed to tell anyone about your successes, which of your current goals would you continue to pursue?
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthl...
2024-01-0703 minMeaningless Problems#45 The Weight of AchievementIn Bernard’s local pub, everyone carries their life’s achievements with them in a big black bag.
Philosophy - Spirituality - Absurdism
The Weight of Achievement is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Something to consider when reading/listening:
If you were never allowed to tell anyone about your successes, which of your current goals would you continue to pursue?
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthl...
2024-01-0703 minMeaningless Problems#44 FutilityA writer is slightly concerned about his short story podcast. He shares these concerns with a plumber and is surprised by his response.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
How do you know for certain that you are not a fictional creation dreamt up by somebody else?
Comedy - Philosophy - Plumbing
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
...
2023-12-3114 minMeaningless Problems#44 FutilityA writer is slightly concerned about his short story podcast. He shares these concerns with a plumber and is surprised by his response.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
How do you know for certain that you are not a fictional creation dreamt up by somebody else?
Comedy - Philosophy - Plumbing
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
...
2023-12-3114 minMeaningless ProblemsBONUS EPISODE: Best of 2023The top five short stories from 2023. If you’re new to Meaningless Problems, this might be a good place to start.
These are the stories with the timestamps for each:
It Wasn’t Me - 1.30 - Kimi is delighted with Su-Z, a new personal assistant software that can send and respond to emails on her behalf. But her delight is punctured when her boyfriend receives a message from one of her email contacts claiming that he and Kimi have fallen in love. Will Kimi’s boyfriend believe her when she pins the blame on...
2023-12-291h 17Meaningless ProblemsBONUS EPISODE: Best of 2023The top five short stories from 2023. If you’re new to Meaningless Problems, this might be a good place to start.
These are the stories with the timestamps for each:
It Wasn’t Me - 1.30 - Kimi is delighted with Su-Z, a new personal assistant software that can send and respond to emails on her behalf. But her delight is punctured when her boyfriend receives a message from one of her email contacts claiming that he and Kimi have fallen in love. Will Kimi’s boyfriend believe her when she pins the blame on...
2023-12-291h 17Meaningless Problems#43 A Wise Man (Christmas story)A silly story, especially for Christmas. Working the early-turn Christmas Eve shift, Sergeant Rod just wants to finish at five, collect his daughter’s bizarre choice of present and go home. But his boss, the local drug lord and south London’s canine population have other ideas.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Are you feeling Christmassy?
Comedy - Family - Christmas
A Wise Man is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of th...
2023-12-2432 minMeaningless Problems#43 A Wise Man (Christmas story)A silly story, especially for Christmas. Working the early-turn Christmas Eve shift, Sergeant Rod just wants to finish at five, collect his daughter’s bizarre choice of present and go home. But his boss, the local drug lord and south London’s canine population have other ideas.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Are you feeling Christmassy?
Comedy - Family - Christmas
A Wise Man is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of th...
2023-12-2432 minMeaningless Problems#42 Prime Minister’s QuestionsThanks to developments in AI and VR, every voter now has the right to meet their political candidates one-on-one. These hyper-realistic chat bots look and sound exactly like their real-life equivalents and they answer questions with 99.9% accuracy. So what happens when the British primer minister’s chat bot starts making some very provocative statements?
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Would this type of hyper realistic chatbot enhance our elections?
Prime Minister’s Questions is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like t...
2023-12-1714 minMeaningless Problems#42 Prime Minister’s QuestionsThanks to developments in AI and VR, every voter now has the right to meet their political candidates one-on-one. These hyper-realistic chat bots look and sound exactly like their real-life equivalents and they answer questions with 99.9% accuracy. So what happens when the British primer minister’s chat bot starts making some very provocative statements?
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Would this type of hyper realistic chatbot enhance our elections?
Prime Minister’s Questions is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like t...
2023-12-1714 minMeaningless Problems#41 No WordsA new medical procedure will remove anxiety and allow you to live perfectly in the moment. The only downside? You have to give up your ability to comprehend language.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
What would you be prepared to give up in exchange for perfect peace of mind?
No Words is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For informa...
2023-12-1010 minMeaningless Problems#41 No WordsA new medical procedure will remove anxiety and allow you to live perfectly in the moment. The only downside? You have to give up your ability to comprehend language.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
What would you be prepared to give up in exchange for perfect peace of mind?
No Words is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For informa...
2023-12-1010 minMeaningless Problems#40 The Meaning of LoveLike most of his friends, Burt hates his job and lives for the weekend. And when his friends start installing modules into their brains that make them enjoy their work, Burt is furious with them. What’s the point of escapism if there’s nothing to escape?
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Could you live a good life if you enjoyed every part of it?
The Meaning of Love is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the scrip...
2023-12-0310 minMeaningless Problems#40 The Meaning of LoveLike most of his friends, Burt hates his job and lives for the weekend. And when his friends start installing modules into their brains that make them enjoy their work, Burt is furious with them. What’s the point of escapism if there’s nothing to escape?
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Could you live a good life if you enjoyed every part of it?
The Meaning of Love is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the scrip...
2023-12-0310 minMeaningless Problems#39 Losing the PlotAfter a mental breakdown, Michael reconsiders his entire perception of the world.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Are there any narratives in your own life that you’d be better off without?
Losing the Plot is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads
Non...
2023-11-2609 minMeaningless Problems#39 Losing the PlotAfter a mental breakdown, Michael reconsiders his entire perception of the world.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Are there any narratives in your own life that you’d be better off without?
Losing the Plot is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads
Non...
2023-11-2609 minMeaningless Problems#38 Your Final AmbitionOn your deathbed, in agonising pain, you are given the chance to reduce your suffering. But in order to do so, you must reduce your worldly success by the same amount.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Would you sacrifice the present for the sake of the past?
Your Final Ambition is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information...
2023-11-1910 minMeaningless Problems#38 Your Final AmbitionOn your deathbed, in agonising pain, you are given the chance to reduce your suffering. But in order to do so, you must reduce your worldly success by the same amount.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Would you sacrifice the present for the sake of the past?
Your Final Ambition is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information...
2023-11-1910 minMeaningless Problems#37 Don’t Blame the ChildrenIn the near future, virtual reality allows couples to meet their potential children before they’ve been conceived.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Does having more options make us more free?
Don’t Blame The Children is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information about upcoming stories and live performances of my stage plays, go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up...
2023-11-1207 minMeaningless Problems#37 Don’t Blame the ChildrenIn the near future, virtual reality allows couples to meet their potential children before they’ve been conceived.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Does having more options make us more free?
Don’t Blame The Children is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information about upcoming stories and live performances of my stage plays, go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up...
2023-11-1207 minMeaningless Problems#36 IguanaA therapist is tasked with convincing a very clever eleven year old that there is a difference between fact and fiction.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
If all of your experiences take place in your mind, how can you be certain anything is real?
Iguana is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information about upcoming stories and live perform...
2023-11-0513 minMeaningless Problems#36 IguanaA therapist is tasked with convincing a very clever eleven year old that there is a difference between fact and fiction.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
If all of your experiences take place in your mind, how can you be certain anything is real?
Iguana is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
For information about upcoming stories and live perform...
2023-11-0513 minMeaningless Problems#35 Just Like HerA widower uses an AR filter to make his new girlfriend look exactly like his ex wife.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Is it possible to have a truthful relationship with someone if your perception of them is totally different to how they perceive themselves?
Sc-fi - Augmented Reality - Family
Just Like Her is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/do...
2023-10-2906 minMeaningless Problems#35 Just Like HerA widower uses an AR filter to make his new girlfriend look exactly like his ex wife.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Is it possible to have a truthful relationship with someone if your perception of them is totally different to how they perceive themselves?
Sc-fi - Augmented Reality - Family
Just Like Her is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/do...
2023-10-2906 minMeaningless Problems#34 Inside Voices (performed by Tamsin Dowsett)Casting director Lydia has invited an actress along to a family meet-up so that the actress can model her next character on Lydia’s twin sister Tania. But Lydia soon realises that one Tania is quite enough.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent are we all actors playing characters?
Dramatic Monologue - Comedy - Family
Inside Voices is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https...
2023-10-2228 minMeaningless Problems#34 Inside Voices (performed by Tamsin Dowsett)Casting director Lydia has invited an actress along to a family meet-up so that the actress can model her next character on Lydia’s twin sister Tania. But Lydia soon realises that one Tania is quite enough.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent are we all actors playing characters?
Dramatic Monologue - Comedy - Family
Inside Voices is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https...
2023-10-2228 minMeaningless Problems#33 A Bench in West London (performed by Thea Collings)Tania’s twin sister Lydia has bought a memorial bench for their mum in the family’s local park. There’s just one problem: their mum is still very much alive (Lydia was unaware that memorial benches are exclusively for the dead). Cue a series of tributes from people who want to pay their respects, including a man whose connection to Tania and Lydia’s mum threatens to completely undermine who they thought she was.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
How fragile is our understanding of ourselves and those close to us? Are w...
2023-10-1523 minMeaningless Problems#33 A Bench in West London (performed by Thea Collings)Tania’s twin sister Lydia has bought a memorial bench for their mum in the family’s local park. There’s just one problem: their mum is still very much alive (Lydia was unaware that memorial benches are exclusively for the dead). Cue a series of tributes from people who want to pay their respects, including a man whose connection to Tania and Lydia’s mum threatens to completely undermine who they thought she was.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
How fragile is our understanding of ourselves and those close to us? Are w...
2023-10-1523 minMeaningless Problems#32 As It Should BeA married man purchases a memory of himself having sex with another woman. His wife finds out and kicks him out. He returns to the memory shop to try and put things right.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Picture something you’ve always wanted to do. Would you rather do it and have no memory of having done so, or not do it but have a false memory of having done so?
Sc-fi - Memory - Family
As It Should Be is an original...
2023-10-0814 minMeaningless Problems#32 As It Should BeA married man purchases a memory of himself having sex with another woman. His wife finds out and kicks him out. He returns to the memory shop to try and put things right.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
Picture something you’ve always wanted to do. Would you rather do it and have no memory of having done so, or not do it but have a false memory of having done so?
Sc-fi - Memory - Family
As It Should Be is an original...
2023-10-0814 minMeaningless Problems#31 Tell Her I Was KindA father with a terminal illness has the chance to spare his young daughter from the pain of his death by erasing her memories of the times they’ve spent together.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
How far would you go to save someone you love from grief?
Sc-fi - Memory - Family
Tell Her I Was Kind is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www...
2023-10-0108 minMeaningless Problems#31 Tell Her I Was KindA father with a terminal illness has the chance to spare his young daughter from the pain of his death by erasing her memories of the times they’ve spent together.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
How far would you go to save someone you love from grief?
Sc-fi - Memory - Family
Tell Her I Was Kind is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www...
2023-10-0108 minMeaningless Problems#30 Cheek Biter (performed by Sebastian Brown)An offhand remark from his dentist makes Mark question his entire existence.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent does our identity depend on other people's perceptions? Who are we when no one is looking?
Dramatic Monologue - Psychological - Relationships
Cheek Biter is an original short story by Doe Wilmann, performed by Sebastian Brown (sbvoices.co.uk)
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
2023-09-2408 minMeaningless Problems#30 Cheek Biter (performed by Sebastian Brown)An offhand remark from his dentist makes Mark question his entire existence.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
To what extent does our identity depend on other people's perceptions? Who are we when no one is looking?
Dramatic Monologue - Psychological - Relationships
Cheek Biter is an original short story by Doe Wilmann, performed by Sebastian Brown (sbvoices.co.uk)
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to https://www.fairobserver.com/author/doe-wilmann/
2023-09-2408 minMeaningless Problems#29 A BackupGina has a fantastic relationship with her seven-year-old son, James. The trouble is James is actually an adult and this seven-year-old is simply a perfect VR simulation of how he used to be. And adult James isn’t willing to share his mummy with anyone - even himself.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
If someone created a perfect VR simulation of you as a child, would you be happy for it to interact with your loved ones?
Sc-fi - Absurdism - Family
A Backup is...
2023-09-1706 minMeaningless Problems#29 A BackupGina has a fantastic relationship with her seven-year-old son, James. The trouble is James is actually an adult and this seven-year-old is simply a perfect VR simulation of how he used to be. And adult James isn’t willing to share his mummy with anyone - even himself.
Something to consider when reading/listening:
If someone created a perfect VR simulation of you as a child, would you be happy for it to interact with your loved ones?
Sc-fi - Absurdism - Family
A Backup is...
2023-09-1706 minMeaningless Problems#28 Skipping Through LifeFaced with the prospect of making half his workforce redundant, Mr Pomeroy is offered the chance to skip the experience by travelling twelve hours into his own future. He accepts the offer and, twelve hours later, finds he still has all the memories of having experienced the day. So how is ‘time skipping’ any different from our normal experience of life?
Something to consider when reading/listening:
How do you know your past isn’t simply a series of implanted memories? And would it make any difference if it were?
2023-09-1012 minMeaningless Problems#28 Skipping Through LifeFaced with the prospect of making half his workforce redundant, Mr Pomeroy is offered the chance to skip the experience by travelling twelve hours into his own future. He accepts the offer and, twelve hours later, finds he still has all the memories of having experienced the day. So how is ‘time skipping’ any different from our normal experience of life?
Something to consider when reading/listening:
How do you know your past isn’t simply a series of implanted memories? And would it make any difference if it were?
2023-09-1012 minMeaningless Problems#27 Dreams and MemoriesAn old man is troubled by the fact that his late wife spent her final years reminiscing about memories that never actually took place. A doctor visits him with some unorthodox advice.
Philosophy - Spirituality - Memory
Dreams and Memories is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcas...
2023-09-0307 minMeaningless Problems#27 Dreams and MemoriesAn old man is troubled by the fact that his late wife spent her final years reminiscing about memories that never actually took place. A doctor visits him with some unorthodox advice.
Philosophy - Spirituality - Memory
Dreams and Memories is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcas...
2023-09-0307 minMeaningless Problems#26 The World’s Ugliest PersonA new augmented reality app allows everyone to look beautiful. This makes Gary, who refuses to use any form of AR, the ugliest person in the world. He’s never been a particularly bad-looking bloke so how will he adapt to his new reality?
Sc-fi - Comedy - Dating
The World’s Ugliest Person is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via...
2023-08-2713 minMeaningless Problems#26 The World’s Ugliest PersonA new augmented reality app allows everyone to look beautiful. This makes Gary, who refuses to use any form of AR, the ugliest person in the world. He’s never been a particularly bad-looking bloke so how will he adapt to his new reality?
Sc-fi - Comedy - Dating
The World’s Ugliest Person is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via...
2023-08-2713 minMeaningless Problems#25 It Wasn’t MeKimi is delighted with Su-Z, a new personal assistant software that can send and respond to emails on her behalf. But her delight is punctured when her boyfriend receives a message from one of her email contacts claiming that he and Kimi have fallen in love. Will Kimi’s boyfriend believe her when she pins the blame on Su-Z? And what exactly has her personal assistant been saying in those messages?
Sc-fi - Comedy - Relationships
It Wasn’t Me is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d...
2023-08-2013 minMeaningless Problems#25 It Wasn’t MeKimi is delighted with Su-Z, a new personal assistant software that can send and respond to emails on her behalf. But her delight is punctured when her boyfriend receives a message from one of her email contacts claiming that he and Kimi have fallen in love. Will Kimi’s boyfriend believe her when she pins the blame on Su-Z? And what exactly has her personal assistant been saying in those messages?
Sc-fi - Comedy - Relationships
It Wasn’t Me is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d...
2023-08-2013 minMeaningless Problems#24 The Light Without The FilterLee has a strong memory of his dad’s last moments on this earth. Only it’s not his memory, it’s his dad’s. Somehow he can picture, with perfect clarity, the final thing his dad saw before he passed away. Is this just a trick of Lee’s imagination or is it pointing towards something deeper?
Philosophy - Spirituality - Non-Duality
The Light Without The Filter is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessp...
2023-08-1316 minMeaningless Problems#24 The Light Without The FilterLee has a strong memory of his dad’s last moments on this earth. Only it’s not his memory, it’s his dad’s. Somehow he can picture, with perfect clarity, the final thing his dad saw before he passed away. Is this just a trick of Lee’s imagination or is it pointing towards something deeper?
Philosophy - Spirituality - Non-Duality
The Light Without The Filter is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessp...
2023-08-1316 minMeaningless Problems#23 Starmix and The Runaway TableHarry Bow (aka Starmix), a part-time waiter and full-time life coach, has discovered the secret of the universe. Namely, that every living being shares the same consciousness. And now it is his mission to correct the bad behaviour of everyone he meets.
Philosophy - Spirituality - Comedy
Starmix and The Runaway Table is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the...
2023-08-0610 minMeaningless Problems#23 Starmix and The Runaway TableHarry Bow (aka Starmix), a part-time waiter and full-time life coach, has discovered the secret of the universe. Namely, that every living being shares the same consciousness. And now it is his mission to correct the bad behaviour of everyone he meets.
Philosophy - Spirituality - Comedy
Starmix and The Runaway Table is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the...
2023-08-0610 minMeaningless Problems#22 Making You Feel BetterThere’s a secret that may well blow your entire world apart. ‘You wouldn’t recognise me but you have seen me,’ says the narrator of this story. ‘You’ve seen me many times. The day your partner left you. When you were fired from your job. The time you felt like you couldn’t go on…’ So who are they? And what is their secret?
Philosophy - Spirituality - Absurdism
Making You Feel Better is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this...
2023-07-3004 minMeaningless Problems#22 Making You Feel BetterThere’s a secret that may well blow your entire world apart. ‘You wouldn’t recognise me but you have seen me,’ says the narrator of this story. ‘You’ve seen me many times. The day your partner left you. When you were fired from your job. The time you felt like you couldn’t go on…’ So who are they? And what is their secret?
Philosophy - Spirituality - Absurdism
Making You Feel Better is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this...
2023-07-3004 minMeaningless Problems#21 Instant Connect (performed by Taj Atwal)There’s a new dating app that cuts out the dating. It connects two compatible people and implants a love story into their memories, while removing any recollection of ever having signed up to the service. As far as the two lovers are concerned, they met and fell in love in a totally normal, natural way. So when Selina’s best friend suddenly announces she’s getting married to a woman Selina has never heard of before, you can understand why she might be suspicious.
Taj Atwal is a Bafta-nominated actress best known for her roles in...
2023-07-2313 minMeaningless Problems#21 Instant Connect (performed by Taj Atwal)There’s a new dating app that cuts out the dating. It connects two compatible people and implants a love story into their memories, while removing any recollection of ever having signed up to the service. As far as the two lovers are concerned, they met and fell in love in a totally normal, natural way. So when Selina’s best friend suddenly announces she’s getting married to a woman Selina has never heard of before, you can understand why she might be suspicious.
Taj Atwal is a Bafta-nominated actress best known for her roles in...
2023-07-2313 minMeaningless Problems#20 Failing Our SonWhen her teenage son experiences failure, Gina is annoyed by her husband’s indifference. But did Martin secretly hope their son would fail all along?
Philosophy - Comedy - Domesticity
Failing Our Son is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy th...
2023-07-1506 minMeaningless Problems#20 Failing Our SonWhen her teenage son experiences failure, Gina is annoyed by her husband’s indifference. But did Martin secretly hope their son would fail all along?
Philosophy - Comedy - Domesticity
Failing Our Son is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy th...
2023-07-1506 minMeaningless Problems#19 The LoopWhen we die, we come back as the person to whom we’ve caused the most harm. At least that’s what the plumber says…
Philosophy - Spirituality - Absurdism
The Loop is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode...
2023-07-0907 minMeaningless Problems#19 The LoopWhen we die, we come back as the person to whom we’ve caused the most harm. At least that’s what the plumber says…
Philosophy - Spirituality - Absurdism
The Loop is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode...
2023-07-0907 minMeaningless Problems#18 The World’s Happiest PersonA woman knocks on Bernard’s door and tells him he’s won an award.
Philosophy - Comedy - Absurdism
The World’s Happiest Person is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Being...
2023-06-3015 minMeaningless Problems#18 The World’s Happiest PersonA woman knocks on Bernard’s door and tells him he’s won an award.
Philosophy - Comedy - Absurdism
The World’s Happiest Person is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Being...
2023-06-3015 minMeaningless Problems#17 The GuruAfter many years searching for a guru, the narrator finally finds one in an unexpected place.
Philosophy - Spirituality - Non-Duality
The Guru is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Non Duality...
2023-06-2506 minMeaningless Problems#17 The GuruAfter many years searching for a guru, the narrator finally finds one in an unexpected place.
Philosophy - Spirituality - Non-Duality
The Guru is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Non Duality...
2023-06-2506 minMeaningless Problems#16 Why You’ll Never Be Dead (performed by Dot Major)As a plane experiences turbulence, one passenger lays out five reasons why we’ll never be dead. This episode is performed by London Grammar’s Dot Major.
Dot Major is a multi award-winning musician best known for being one third of the band London Grammar, whose albums have been number one in the UK charts and across the world. Dot has also just embarked on a solo career in electronic music.
Philosophy - Comedy - Life and Death
Why You’ll Never Be Dead is an original short story...
2023-06-1812 minMeaningless Problems#16 Why You’ll Never Be Dead (performed by Dot Major)As a plane experiences turbulence, one passenger lays out five reasons why we’ll never be dead. This episode is performed by London Grammar’s Dot Major.
Dot Major is a multi award-winning musician best known for being one third of the band London Grammar, whose albums have been number one in the UK charts and across the world. Dot has also just embarked on a solo career in electronic music.
Philosophy - Comedy - Life and Death
Why You’ll Never Be Dead is an original short story...
2023-06-1812 minMeaningless Problems#15 They’ll Have to Kill MeThe prime minister wakes up in his country residence to find that everyone thinks he’s gone completely mad. So did he really speak to those men in black raincoats who told him he needs to follow their orders? Or did he imagine it? Who can you trust when you can no longer trust the voice in your own head?
Psychological Thriller - Suspense - Political
They’ll Have to Kill Me is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of th...
2023-06-1127 minMeaningless Problems#15 They’ll Have to Kill MeThe prime minister wakes up in his country residence to find that everyone thinks he’s gone completely mad. So did he really speak to those men in black raincoats who told him he needs to follow their orders? Or did he imagine it? Who can you trust when you can no longer trust the voice in your own head?
Psychological Thriller - Suspense - Political
They’ll Have to Kill Me is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of th...
2023-06-1127 minMeaningless Problems#14 I AmAn atheist wakes up in heaven.
Philosophy - Comedy - Technology
I Am is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives by David Eagleman
A Histo...
2023-06-0413 minMeaningless Problems#14 I AmAn atheist wakes up in heaven.
Philosophy - Comedy - Technology
I Am is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives by David Eagleman
A Histo...
2023-06-0413 minMeaningless Problems#11 Protest at the TheatreWhen a play is disrupted by protests, it does wonders for ticket sales.
Protest at the Theatre is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Theatre - Corruption
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Alan Bennet...
2023-05-1409 minMeaningless Problems#11 Protest at the TheatreWhen a play is disrupted by protests, it does wonders for ticket sales.
Protest at the Theatre is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Theatre - Corruption
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Alan Bennet...
2023-05-1409 minMeaningless Problems#10 Plonker (performed by Mary Tillett)On the verge of becoming a grandparent for the first time, Irene reflects on her relationship with her husband aka ‘Plonker’.
Plonker is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Dramatic Monologue - Psychological - Relationships
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
2023-05-0710 minMeaningless Problems#10 Plonker (performed by Mary Tillett)On the verge of becoming a grandparent for the first time, Irene reflects on her relationship with her husband aka ‘Plonker’.
Plonker is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Dramatic Monologue - Psychological - Relationships
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
2023-05-0710 minMeaningless Problems#9 Consuming ContentA writer from 2043 laments being replaced by the AI chat bot ChatGPT. But are there some upsides?
Consuming Content is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Sc-fi - Philosophy - Technology
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Sum: F...
2023-04-3009 minMeaningless Problems#9 Consuming ContentA writer from 2043 laments being replaced by the AI chat bot ChatGPT. But are there some upsides?
Consuming Content is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Sc-fi - Philosophy - Technology
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:
Sum: F...
2023-04-3009 minMeaningless Problems#8 A Fantastic Government InitiativeOn the day the UK government tests out its new emergency alerts system, there are some unexpected consequences for writer Alvin Rikard (first seen in ep4) and prisoner-in-his-own-home Kevin (first seen in ep1).
A Fantastic Government Initiative is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Farce - Relationships
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts...
2023-04-2314 minMeaningless Problems#8 A Fantastic Government InitiativeOn the day the UK government tests out its new emergency alerts system, there are some unexpected consequences for writer Alvin Rikard (first seen in ep4) and prisoner-in-his-own-home Kevin (first seen in ep1).
A Fantastic Government Initiative is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Farce - Relationships
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts...
2023-04-2314 minMeaningless Problems#6 Your Opinion MattersAfter sixteen years working in a bank, Emma still loves her job and still loves serving her customers. You might think this is great. But I’m the voice in Emma’s head and, for me, it’s a living nightmare.
Your Opinion Matters is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Suspense - Psychological
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d lo...
2023-04-0913 minMeaningless Problems#6 Your Opinion MattersAfter sixteen years working in a bank, Emma still loves her job and still loves serving her customers. You might think this is great. But I’m the voice in Emma’s head and, for me, it’s a living nightmare.
Your Opinion Matters is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Suspense - Psychological
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d lo...
2023-04-0913 minMeaningless Problems#5 Silly Old Trick (performed by Maison Sawyer)Scared that his whole life might pass him by, Edward devises a trick to help him appreciate his youth.
Silly Old Trick - an original short story by Doe Wilmann, performed by Maison Sawyer
Psychological - Suspense - Drama
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode...
2023-04-0212 minMeaningless Problems#5 Silly Old Trick (performed by Maison Sawyer)Scared that his whole life might pass him by, Edward devises a trick to help him appreciate his youth.
Silly Old Trick - an original short story by Doe Wilmann, performed by Maison Sawyer
Psychological - Suspense - Drama
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode...
2023-04-0212 minMeaningless Problems#4 About HairdressingWhen Alvin Rikard says he’s writing a play about hairdressing, his best friend’s wife Natalia invites him to visit her salon. Alvin is delighted to accept. But are his motives entirely professional?
About Hairdressing is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Theatre - Sexual Tension
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on t...
2023-03-267h 46Meaningless Problems#4 About HairdressingWhen Alvin Rikard says he’s writing a play about hairdressing, his best friend’s wife Natalia invites him to visit her salon. Alvin is delighted to accept. But are his motives entirely professional?
About Hairdressing is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Theatre - Sexual Tension
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on t...
2023-03-267h 46Meaningless Problems#3 The End ProductWhen a writer tells a plumber about his theory of the world, he is surprised by the plumber’s response.
The End Product is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Philosophy - Plumbing
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:...
2023-03-1915 minMeaningless Problems#3 The End ProductWhen a writer tells a plumber about his theory of the world, he is surprised by the plumber’s response.
The End Product is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Comedy - Philosophy - Plumbing
If you’d like to read the script of this episode go to meaninglessproblems.com and sign up to my monthly newsletter. You can also email me via the contact form. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast.
You might enjoy this episode if you like:...
2023-03-1915 minMeaningless Problems#2 Groundhog DayJake has just seen his dad for the last time. Or has he? Their relationship has strained over the last ten years but the one thing the father and son have left is their love for the iconic Bill Murray movie, Groundhog Day. So when Jake flies back home to see his dad one last time, he wonders if he’ll end up reliving this day over and over again.
Groundhog Day is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Drama - Family - Philosophy
If you’d like to...
2023-03-1211 minMeaningless Problems#2 Groundhog DayJake has just seen his dad for the last time. Or has he? Their relationship has strained over the last ten years but the one thing the father and son have left is their love for the iconic Bill Murray movie, Groundhog Day. So when Jake flies back home to see his dad one last time, he wonders if he’ll end up reliving this day over and over again.
Groundhog Day is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
Drama - Family - Philosophy
If you’d like to...
2023-03-1211 minMeaningless Problems#1 My Home is a PrisonAfter thirty four years of marriage, Kevin feels like a prisoner in his own home. His religious faith means he is unable to divorce his wife. So is there another way he could bring their relationship to an end?
My Home is a Prison is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
True Crime - Comedy - Relationships
(Yes, I’m doing that annoying Netflix thing where it gives you three buzzwords for each show. But it should help you if you’re scrolling through episodes)
If you’d...
2023-03-0515 minMeaningless Problems#1 My Home is a PrisonAfter thirty four years of marriage, Kevin feels like a prisoner in his own home. His religious faith means he is unable to divorce his wife. So is there another way he could bring their relationship to an end?
My Home is a Prison is an original short story by Doe Wilmann
True Crime - Comedy - Relationships
(Yes, I’m doing that annoying Netflix thing where it gives you three buzzwords for each show. But it should help you if you’re scrolling through episodes)
If you’d...
2023-03-0515 min