You ever had one of those dreams where everyone’s laughing at you—but it’s not funny? Now imagine you can’t wake up. What happens when the world’s laughter turns into something sharper, darker, and far more sinister? This is a story where the joke’s on you—or is it? ||| Story, art, and music produced by J.L. Stroud, Jr. with AI assistance. For more information visit www.jlstroudjr.com

In the shadowed corners between obsession and devotion lies "Phantom Hearts," a psychological exploration of love's darkest manifestations. This haunting narrative podcast follows Vincent, a man whose perception of romance has twisted into something unrecognizable as he orbits around Delores—a woman who exists at the center of his fractured universe. ||| Story, art, and music produced by J.L. Stroud, Jr. with AI assistance. For more information visit www.jlstroudjr.com

The alimony’s bleeding him dry. His pride's already gone. When Nate Ellison hears about a washed-up sex offender with a fat bank account and no security, he doesn’t hesitate. Just a quick score—get in, get out. But old rage burns hot, and by the time it’s over, Nate's not just broke... he’s bloodstained. ||| Story, art, and music produced by J.L. Stroud, Jr. with AI assistance. For more information visit www.jlstroudjr.com