Audiobooks Narrated by Petunia Harris

7 Kinds of Unhealthy Crushes: When Attraction Turns Toxic

"Crushes are often seen as harmless, exciting, and even exhilarating experiences. They add a spark to life, fueling daydreams and fantasies. But not all crushes are healthy. Sometimes, what starts as admiration or affection can turn into something emotionally draining, obsessive, or even self-destructive. Unhealthy crushes can make you question your self-worth, lead you into toxic patterns, and keep you fixated on people who aren’t right for you—or who may not even notice you at all.    Attraction is a powerful force, and it’s not always rational. We may find ourselves drawn to people who are emotionally unavailable, who hold authority over us, or who trigger old wounds from our past. In some cases, our feelings aren’t even about the person themselves but about what they represent—an escape, a challenge, or a longing to fill an internal void. These patterns can be difficult to break, especially when the intensity of emotions clouds our judgment.    Understanding the difference between a normal crush and an unhealthy one is key to emotional well-being. A healthy crush brings excitement but doesn’t consume your thoughts or interfere with your daily life. It allows you to appreciate someone while maintaining your sense of self. An unhealthy crush, however, can take over your emotions, lead to unrealistic fantasies, and create painful attachments that are hard to let go of. The longer you stay trapped in these patterns, the more they can drain your energy and prevent you from forming meaningful, fulfilling relationships. "

John Harpoon (Author), Petunia Harris (Narrator)

Audiobook

10 Signs of Phony Friendly People: How to Identify Fake Friendships

"Friendship is one of the most cherished aspects of life. It provides support, joy, and a sense of belonging. However, not all friendships are built on genuine connection. Some people disguise themselves as friends but have hidden motives, leaving you feeling drained, confused, or even betrayed. These phony friendly people can be difficult to recognize at first, as they often wear a mask of kindness and warmth. Over time, their true nature begins to surface, revealing inconsistencies in their words and actions.    Understanding the signs of fake friendships is essential for protecting your emotional well-being. Many people find themselves stuck in relationships that bring more stress than support simply because they overlook red flags. Some friendships start with good intentions but shift into something one-sided or insincere. Others are purely transactional, where one person benefits while the other is left feeling used. Regardless of the type, phony friendships can take a toll on your self-esteem and trust in others.    One of the most frustrating aspects of dealing with fake friends is the uncertainty they create. They may act supportive one day and distant the next, making you question whether you're imagining things or being too sensitive. Genuine friendships, on the other hand, provide consistency and emotional security. When a friendship constantly leaves you second-guessing, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. Recognizing these patterns early can help you avoid unnecessary heartache and disappointment. "

John Harpoon (Author), Petunia Harris (Narrator)

Audiobook

Why So Many Young People Are Depressed: Understanding the Mental Health Crisis Among Youth

"The mental health crisis among young people is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. In recent years, there has been a sharp rise in the number of adolescents and young adults reporting symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. This alarming trend has caught the attention of researchers, educators, and parents alike, as they seek to understand the underlying causes and develop effective solutions. The shift from previous generations to the current one, in which mental health struggles are becoming more visible and prevalent, demands a closer examination of the factors that have contributed to this crisis. Social media has played a significant role in shaping the mental health landscape for today’s youth. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have become an integral part of daily life, but they also introduce new pressures. Young people are constantly exposed to curated images of success, beauty, and happiness, leading to comparisons that can foster feelings of inadequacy. Cyberbullying, online harassment, and the fear of being excluded from digital circles can all contribute to mental health struggles. The pressure to constantly perform for an online audience has placed an unprecedented emotional burden on young people, and their self-worth is often tied to the number of likes, comments, and followers they have. Another major factor contributing to the rise in youth depression is the shifting dynamics within families and communities. The traditional family structure has evolved, with many young people experiencing broken homes, economic hardship, or the absence of supportive role models. These changes can lead to feelings of isolation, insecurity, and hopelessness."

John Harpoon (Author), Petunia Harris (Narrator)

Audiobook

Why Smart People Don't Have Many Friends: The Social Challenges of High Intelligence

"The paradox of intelligence and friendship has puzzled both scholars and individuals for generations. While high intelligence is often associated with success and achievement, it can also come with a significant social challenge: the difficulty of forming and maintaining meaningful friendships. For highly intelligent people, the complex nature of their cognitive abilities can create barriers that make social interactions more challenging. Despite their many strengths, these individuals often find themselves isolated, misunderstood, and distanced from others who may not share the same intellectual capacity or way of thinking.   At the heart of this dilemma lies the disconnect between cognitive intelligence and social intelligence. While a high IQ may contribute to success in academic or professional settings, it doesn't necessarily translate into an ability to navigate the nuances of social interactions. Many highly intelligent people find themselves struggling with small talk, social expectations, and the emotional needs of others. In fact, the more an individual is absorbed in intellectual pursuits, the more likely they are to experience a sense of isolation and a lack of genuine connection with those around them.   Furthermore, emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize and manage one’s emotions and understand those of others—is often underdeveloped in highly intelligent individuals. This creates a gap in understanding social cues, empathy, and the emotional nuances of human interaction. As a result, even when these individuals desire connection, they may inadvertently alienate others or fail to form the deep, meaningful relationships they long for."

John Harpoon (Author), Petunia Harris (Narrator)

Audiobook