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Storytime with me

Storytime with me

By Rylan Banis

Stories that make you laugh, think, and feel.
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taking a study break

Storytime with meMar 01, 2024

00:00
00:01
taking a study break

taking a study break

i am taking a study leave from the podcast to prepare for my exams. no new episodes will release for the next few weeks. yes, this episode does not have audio. i did not have time to record one. i will be back with new episodes in the first week of april.

Mar 01, 202400:01
My $4.20 Introduction to Ramen

My $4.20 Introduction to Ramen

In this episode, I recount my adventure at an anime-themed ramen cafe, sparked by a delayed invitation from a friend. Join me as I navigate the bustling atmosphere, order oversized bowls of miso and spicy ramen, and struggle with chopsticks. The spicy ramen proves to be a fiery challenge, leading to a failed attempt to recruit friends for help. Ultimately, I reflect on the experience, finding satisfaction despite the overwhelming portions.

Feb 22, 202416:00
The Boys

The Boys

Today, I'm taking you on a journey back to college, where an empty classroom brought together Austin, Adrian, and me, forming the unbreakable trio known as The Boys. From creating our group chat 'ARA Squad' to bonding over snack runs and hilarious mishaps, our friendship has flourished, paving the way for endless adventures and laughs. Join me as I share the story of how three unlikely friends became inseparable.

Feb 15, 202432:36
Book Review Competition

Book Review Competition

I spill the beans on entering a college contest with prize money up for grabs. From formatting secrets to a sneaky move with my best friend, Melissa, it's a rollercoaster. Join me as I share the highs, lows, and unexpected lessons from this literary journey. And spoiler alert: winning isn't just about flawless formatting.

Feb 01, 202416:13
Ghosted by the Bank

Ghosted by the Bank

Join me for a story about my experiences with banks. From having a bank account as a kid to the difficulties of growing up and dealing with problems like not-so-great service, trouble with online transfers, and finding out my account was inactive for a long time. Feel the emotions of deciding to close the account, dealing with negative reviews, and being surprised by good service in another branch. Learn about the steps to close the account, move money, and the annoyance of still getting emails.

Jan 25, 202423:04
Mastering Mindful YouTube Watching

Mastering Mindful YouTube Watching

In this episode, I share my journey to mindful content consumption, from ditching toxic dating advice to navigating the pitfalls of self-help overload. Join me as I reflect on reality checks, contradictory content for growth, and the conscious decision to reshape my worldview. Tune in for insights on challenges, the mindful shift in content choices, and stepping back from gurus. It's a candid exploration of intentional media consumption and its profound impact on personal development.

Jan 18, 202409:21
Discord Days

Discord Days

Join me on a journey through my experience with Discord, from its introduction during my school days to exploring its features, videos, bots, and Nitro perks. I'll share how I customized servers, encountered mishaps, and ultimately realized the difference between my idealized perception and the platform's reality.

Jan 11, 202422:32
Buying Some More Stocks

Buying Some More Stocks

In Part 2 of the Stonks Saga, I'll take you through a seven-month journey in the stock market. From lucky gains to tough losses, discover how I learned and grew. Despite ups and downs, there's always something new to explore in the world of stocks.

Jan 04, 202422:57
Leaky Ride

Leaky Ride

In today's Rickshaw Saga, I've got three monsoon-themed stories that define the chaos of commuting in the rain. First, a stranger's unexpected umbrella rescue saved me from a downpour while waiting for a rickshaw. Then, a leaky rickshaw roof turned my ride into an indoor waterfall, leaving me soaked and sightless behind dirty glasses. Finally, a reckless driver turned my journey into a muddy mess, prompting a near-showdown between rickshaws.

Dec 28, 202318:25
Fiction = Reality

Fiction = Reality

I invite you to explore the intriguing parallels between life and fiction. Let's delve into how conflicts, much like those encountered in movies and TV shows, play a crucial role in shaping our personal stories, infusing them with depth and meaning. Our discussion will encompass character development, moral dilemmas, storytelling techniques, the hero's journey, archetypal characters, resilience, and adaptation. We'll shed light on how these elements in fiction mirror our journey of growth and self-discovery. Despite the frustrations that conflicts can bring, I emphasize their significance in making our stories captivating through the contrast they create.

Sep 14, 202327:40
The Phone Swap

The Phone Swap

I recount a Mission Impossible-esque phone swap story, though I'm no Tom Cruise. It all began when a new phone entered the house, following the rule of using phones until they give up after 4-5 years. Fast forward two years, a pandemic, and an unfortunate audio malfunction later, and I found myself in need of a new phone. The inciting incident, marked by unbearable audio distortion, propelled me into a search for the perfect replacement. A strategic plan led to a successful exchange, though ethical considerations arose regarding the undisclosed speaker issue with the old phone. Tune in to hear this captivating tale and join the discussion on ethical dilemmas.

Sep 07, 202325:01
Impractical Lectures

Impractical Lectures

I revisit a past discussion on Business Communication tutorials, exploring the quirks and humor in the education system. I recount experiences during the pandemic year, comical encounters in class, and unexpected twists in career aspirations. The episode questions the purpose of certain academic endeavors and sheds light on the shortcomings of the education system, providing a lighthearted take on the journey through BC tutorials. Join me for a humorous exploration of my educational saga.

Aug 31, 202324:30
Nosy Nose

Nosy Nose

Join me for a lighthearted exploration of my nose's antics and quirks in this episode. From childhood nose-picking habits to myths about nose size, we delve into the comical journey of my ever-present nose. Discover the secrets of the "Roman nose" bump and the enigma of Schrödinger's nose, all while dealing with the challenges of a perpetually runny nose. Tune in for a humorous take on sneezing and the misadventures of seeking medical help for my nasal antics. In the end, my nose remains the mischievous troublemaker, always causing a scene.

Aug 24, 202316:53
I Got Blocked

I Got Blocked

I recount a tale of unintended consequences when trying to befriend a classmate named Stephy during my first year of junior college. I wanted to benefit from her position as the class monitor, but my attempt to establish a friendship went awry. A miscommunication about her TikTok videos led to her blocking me. A year later, I was unblocked, and I took this experience to heart, learning never to mock someone's interests. Tune in to hear how a blunder turned into a valuable lesson in empathy and understanding.

Aug 17, 202317:26
The Villain Within Me

The Villain Within Me

Join me on a nostalgic journey back to my childhood, when my parents enrolled me in various classes, including acting. I reminisce about the nerve-wracking but exciting experience of being in an acting class and preparing for a unique play. The storyline, my role as an Indian Navy officer, and the unexpected turns during the performance day are all part of this memorable adventure. I reflect on the audience's reactions, the play's morals, and the lifelong lessons I learned from this acting experience. Discover how this journey shaped my passion for storytelling and impacted my perspective on life.

Aug 10, 202314:15
Jumping from Comics to Manga

Jumping from Comics to Manga

Get ready as I take you on my epic journey from comics to manga! Back in the 2000s, my dad introduced me to a fantastic comic book service with flimsy magazine-style comics and thrilling digests. I felt like part of an exclusive club, and nobody at school knew about it! When the subscription stopped, I discovered mainstream superhero stuff through Marvel and DC movies, clueless about their comic origins. Living in an area with few comic book stores, I tried manga one day, and it blew my mind! expensive, but worth it. My friends dragged me to a manga cafe, where I touched Marvel and DC comics for the first time. Their manga-only recommendations got me hooked! Now, I’m a manga maniac, devouring titles like “Berserk,” “Uzumaki,” “Oyasumi Punpun,” “Domestic Girlfriend,” and “Grand Blue Dreaming.” Currently obsessed with “Oshi no Ko,” I can’t stop flipping through those pages! Join me in this laughter-filled episode as I blend comics and manga, sharing my geek-out moments.

Aug 03, 202323:08
The Pigeon's Perfect Shot

The Pigeon's Perfect Shot

Get ready for a wild and slightly embarrassing tale in today’s episode. So, picture this: I’m just minding my own business, sitting in class, lost in my thoughts, when, out of nowhere, a pigeon decides to make me its prime target. Yup, you guessed it—I got pooped on! But that’s not even the craziest part. These pigeons are like classroom ninjas, sneaking in through our tall, thin windows and causing absolute mayhem. Flying in and out mid-lectures, they’ve got everyone on edge. Join me as I spill the beans on this pigeon disaster, their mischievous ways, and the hilarious chaos they've unleashed in our classroom. Trust me, you don't want to miss this feathered tale!

Jul 27, 202326:11
Lessons Learned From Unwanted Advice

Lessons Learned From Unwanted Advice

I’m spilling the beans on my journey from slouching to standing tall. Yep, I used to rock some seriously awful back posture without even realizing it. Can you believe it? Friends and relatives would drop hints about keeping my back straight, but I brushed them off with a fake smile. Who were they to judge, right? Fast forward a few years, and I had a major “aha” moment. I finally acknowledged my terrible posture and decided to take matters into my own hands. Guess what? Keeping my back straight voluntarily was a game-changer! Not only did my posture improve, but so did my confidence and how others perceived me. Looking back, I can’t help but feel a pang of guilt for resenting those who genuinely wanted me to have a good posture. Join me as I reflect on this transformative journey and share the lessons I learned.

Jul 20, 202316:33
The Giveaway Dilemma

The Giveaway Dilemma

I’ll be sharing my candid thoughts on why I’ve decided to steer clear of giveaways and what led me to have a change of heart about them. Get ready for an honest conversation as I dive into the reasons why giveaways didn’t resonate with me and how they can sometimes miss the mark when it comes to building genuine connections with an audience.

Jul 13, 202321:41
The Blind Anime Experiment

The Blind Anime Experiment

I'll be sharing my unique approach to watching anime. Forget trailers, reviews, and descriptions; I go into each anime blind, forming my unbiased opinions after watching it. Join me as we explore the thrill of discovering anime without preconceived notions, uncover hidden gems, and experience the joy of unfiltered storytelling.

Jul 06, 202318:50
The Unstoppable Brittany

The Unstoppable Brittany

Step into a world where rules were made to be broken and boundaries were meant to be shattered. Join me as I unravel the extraordinary journey of a fearless young woman who challenged the status quo and embraced her role as a catalyst for change on her college campus. From disrupting lectures to organizing audacious pranks, this rebellious girl transformed the once mundane college experience into a thrilling adventure. But with rebellion come consequences. Explore the highs and lows, the friendships and rivalries, as we delve into the complex psyche of this enigmatic figure. Discover how her daring acts ignited a spark in others, inspiring them to question authority and challenge the system. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as we witness the evolution of a girl who refused to be confined by societal norms and fearlessly carved her path.

Jun 29, 202324:17
The Hoodie Dilemma

The Hoodie Dilemma

I share a comical and unpredictable college tale. Despite a strict dress code, I embraced hoodies during a cold semester. A forgetful morning led to a series of amusing encounters with professors, and challenging norms. Tune in to discover unexpected twists and how life's glitches can create memorable stories.

Jun 22, 202319:19
Amazon Returns Gone Wrong

Amazon Returns Gone Wrong

I've personally experienced the rollercoaster ride of emotions when trying to navigate Amazon's return process, and let me tell you, it can be an absolute nightmare. From mysteriously vanishing packages to unexpected rejections, I've seen it all. In this episode, I'll share my heart-wrenching stories of package rejection that left me bewildered and questioning the reliability of this e-commerce giant. Together, we'll uncover the hidden secrets, puzzling policies, and unforeseen obstacles that can turn a seemingly simple return into a mind-boggling ordeal. Trust me, it's not all rainbows and sunshine when returning Amazon packages.

Jun 15, 202327:26
Becoming a Man of Culture

Becoming a Man of Culture

On this podcast a few episodes ago, I told the story of how I got corrupt. In this episode, I talk about how I became a man of culture. I used to watch the typical stuff until a friend introduced me to what he called “good stuff,” which I dismissed at first. But I had no idea it would grow on me and become my preferred choice in the months to come.

Jun 08, 202312:17
Bowling Is Rigged

Bowling Is Rigged

In this 150th episode, join me as I share an impromptu bowling adventure after our arcade plans fell through. Laugh along as we fumble with colorful balls and navigate the alley, embracing the joy of trying something new. Celebrate this podcast milestone with me, and stay tuned for more exciting tales in the episodes to come.

Jun 01, 202323:56
Uncovering the Truth Behind Punishment

Uncovering the Truth Behind Punishment

A college incident unfolds when inappropriate drawings appear in a classroom. The hunt for the culprit divides the class into those who know but won't tell and those who want to expose the wrongdoer. After weeks of tension, the culprit unexpectedly reveals themselves, resolving the mystery. But questions about motives and dynamics linger. Tune in to discover the resolution of this intriguing college story.

May 25, 202321:53
Downsizing

Downsizing

I share my experiences of downsizing from a three-bedroom apartment to a one-bedroom during renovations. From mishaps like a broken basin to the challenges of fitting all our belongings into a smaller space, it was an eventful move. I narrate comical incidents and adjustments, from dealing with water scarcity to creative pigeon-deterrent measures. Despite the trials, it was a manageable and bonding experience for my family.

May 18, 202323:19
Types of Teachers

Types of Teachers

I revisit a topic discussed in a previous episode titled "Why Does This Lecture Exist?" I delve deeper into the experiences I had with my math teachers during my college days. There were two teachers, one incredibly helpful and the other quite the opposite. I highlight their contrasting teaching methods, their impact on students, and how their approaches affected our perception of the subject. As I prepare for a competitive exam, I reflect on the influence of these teachers on my attitude toward math.

May 11, 202309:60
Instant Karma

Instant Karma

A rickshaw ride takes an unexpected turn as preachy audio about phone addiction plays. The driver seems to agree with the message and subtly tries to make me uncomfortable. However, karma intervenes as he gets caught by traffic police for missing documents. Tune in for the full story and thoughts on karma!

May 04, 202310:34
Curiosity Killed the Cat

Curiosity Killed the Cat

When I was young and entering my teenage years, I was curious and looked up dirty pictures online. I thought I was alone when I looked at the photos, but fate had something else in mind. I was caught red-handed in the act. Did I accept the blame or pass it on to someone else? Let’s find out in this episode.

Apr 27, 202313:14
The ASMR Effect

The ASMR Effect

I explore the world of ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response), a phenomenon experienced through YouTube videos. Starting with triggers and evolving into roleplay ASMR, I found it helped me relax and sleep amidst life’s challenges. I explain the types of ASMR and how it's now a pre-sleep ritual, soothing my mind. ASMR has become my remedy for peaceful sleep.

Apr 20, 202319:21
Finally Reading Berserk

Finally Reading Berserk

I share my unexpected journey into reading Berserk, a highly acclaimed manga praised by my friends. I discuss its unique storytelling, character development, and dark fantasy elements. Although it didn't drastically change me, the experience sparked an interest in exploring more manga. Tune in to find out if Berserk is a must-read!

Apr 13, 202318:02
My History With Underpants

My History With Underpants

Hey, look at us! Huh, who would have thought—not me? Memes aside, I can't for the life of me wear underwear the right way. Should wearing underpants be this hard, or did I complicate it? I also share my days going commando on the battlefield and how liberating it felt.

Apr 06, 202308:48
Stop Fighting in Public

Stop Fighting in Public

In this episode, the sequel to "Never Fight in Public," I have free time during a college break. My friends are absent, so I try to read manga at a nearby bus stop. However, a couple's public argument disrupts my plans, prompting reflection on the importance of privacy in resolving conflicts.

Feb 16, 202311:47
I Hate Spam Emails

I Hate Spam Emails

I got access to all my bank accounts the day I turned eighteen. I thought access to the money was a blessing, but little did I know there was a curse waiting right around the corner for me. The bank saw this as an excellent opportunity to unleash its spam email machine on me. It was then up to me to escape the pile of spam emails and end it once and for all.

Feb 09, 202315:49
Buying My First Stock

Buying My First Stock

I recount the early days of my investing journey, guided by my father's advice after my 18th birthday. I share how I chose an investment app, picked stocks with minimal knowledge, and made my first investments. The narrative ends with a cliffhanger, leaving listeners curious about the outcome of my initial investments. Join me as I reflect on these experiences and learn from the mistakes made along the way.

Feb 02, 202312:27
I Am Speed

I Am Speed

I delve into my unusual habit of consuming content at incredibly high playback speeds. From the childhood habit of regular 1x playback to the revelation of 2x speed, I share the evolution of my content consumption. The story takes a twist as I venture into even faster speeds, reaching up to 5x. I reflect on the impact on comprehension and retention, landing at my ideal playback speed of 2x. Join me as I explore the world of accelerated content consumption and whether it's the right fit for you.

Jan 26, 202315:03
Being a God Is Boring

Being a God Is Boring

Welcome to a thought experiments episode where I delve into the concept of being a god—omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, and omnibenevolent. I ponder whether this state of existence would be monotonous, lacking the challenges and growth found in human life. I draw parallels to the journey of life, where I start with nothing and progress through challenges. Join me in reflecting on the nature of godhood and its potential intricacies.

Jan 19, 202309:46
A Football Almost Killed Me

A Football Almost Killed Me

I’m not a huge sports fan, but I remember a childhood experience where a football came very close to killing me. This tale is about my close call with death while playing football.

Jan 12, 202312:01
How to Not Travel

How to Not Travel

In this episode, I recount an amusing travel tale, somewhat resembling a previous episode titled "How to Not Travel for Vacations." This time, it involves a misadventure with a milk factory visit while returning home from a trip. A glitch in GPS directions and misleading social media posts led us to the wrong destination. We even attempted to visit a nonexistent milk factory, guided by a misleading friend's post. The key takeaways are to choose destinations wisely on GPS and confirm details before assuming based on others' experiences.

Jan 05, 202316:54
Improvise. Adapt. Overcome

Improvise. Adapt. Overcome

In this episode, I recount a memorable rickshaw journey to college. It's a tale of unexpected conversation with the driver. Typically, these journeys are uneventful, but this one took a different turn when the driver engaged in conversation, leading to a series of uncomfortable questions. Ultimately, I had to set boundaries, and the driver admirably adapted and apologized, teaching us the importance of self-awareness and respecting personal space.

Dec 29, 202215:37
He Would Not Stop Sticking To Me

He Would Not Stop Sticking To Me

In this episode, I recount a peculiar school story involving a friend named Neil from my 7th-grade days. Neil's odd behavior led to a fight, prompting me to cut ties. However, Neil took an unsettling turn, becoming a persistent and annoying stalker. The situation escalated, and my best friend, Sam, intervened, resulting in a brutal fight. I found myself torn between reporting the fight to a teacher and protecting Sam. The aftermath revealed surprising reactions and shed light on handling conflicts and ending things on good terms.

Dec 22, 202217:22
Visiting a Manga Cafe

Visiting a Manga Cafe

In this episode, I guide you through an exciting visit to a manga café in India to celebrate a friend's birthday. We set off on this adventure after a recommendation from our friend Adrian. Navigating trains and metros, we reached the café, discovering a treasure trove of comic books in the basement. I read "Fruits Basket" and delved into the eerie world of "Uzumaki." We enjoyed an ice cream cake, witnessed a beautiful sunset, and celebrated his birthday. Adrian, a huge One Piece fan, got a thoughtful gift from me, and we had a funny train mishap on our way back. While the manga café was fantastic, it proved a bit costly and distant.

Dec 15, 202222:06
Hair Growth Time Lapse

Hair Growth Time Lapse

In this episode, I stumbled upon a YouTube video showcasing a 5-year hair growth time-lapse, inspiring me to embark on my hair growth journey. I had little interest in selfies or social media sharing, but the video changed my perspective. I committed to growing my hair, envisioning a style akin to Jason Momoa in Aquaman. However, the reality of hair type and the awkward growing stage made this a challenging endeavor. Though I didn't manage daily selfies, I found an alternative: taking monthly pictures before and after haircuts, providing a unique perspective on growth. Tune in for this hair saga sequel and a surprising redemption in the end!

Dec 08, 202212:35
Performing My Podcast for a Live Audience

Performing My Podcast for a Live Audience

In this unique episode, I surprise an unsuspecting live audience during my college's open mic event by sharing stories from my podcast. From initial hesitation to gaining confidence, I chose a compelling episode titled "Trolling an Online Scammer." Despite nerves and unexpected changes, I delivered a confident performance and received a fantastic audience response. Additionally, I touch on the personal journey of repairing a strained friendship.

Dec 01, 202215:37
My Real Gym Experience

My Real Gym Experience

In this episode, I revisit a past story shared titled "I got enticed into joining the gym, and now I regret it." While the original story remains true, this episode offers a different perspective, shedding light on the unshared aspects of the experience. Delving into motivations for hitting the gym, societal pressures, encounters with trainers and nutritionists, and the impact of the pandemic, I provide insights into my journey and the realizations that shaped my approach to fitness. Join me in reflecting on body image, and societal expectations, and finding a path to self-acceptance and a healthy lifestyle beyond the confines of a gym.

Nov 24, 202226:49
Why Does This Lecture Exist?

Why Does This Lecture Exist?

In this episode, I delve into the perplexing existence of a lecture called "Math Tuts" during my first year of college. The enigmatic acronym intrigued me, and the lecture turned out to be an unexpected challenge. I share the trials and tribulations of this class, where understanding the purpose and methodology seemed impossible. From mysterious questions on the board to the professors' unresponsive attitude, I recount this academic journey, leaving us pondering the true purpose of this enigmatic lecture. Tune in to unravel this academic conundrum and relive the frustrating yet amusing memories of "Math Tuts."

Nov 17, 202216:28
Right Thing at the Wrong Time

Right Thing at the Wrong Time

In this episode, I explore the perpetual struggle of getting the "right thing at the wrong time" throughout my life. From childhood toys to gaming trends, each year's birthday gift seemed obsolete the next year. This dilemma of timing and choices haunted me until I realized the futility of trying to predict the future. Reflecting on this, I learned to embrace the present and accept that we can't control when the right things come into our lives. Join me in this contemplative tale about patience and understanding the unpredictable nature of life's gifts.

Nov 10, 202219:35
Taking Advantage of Subscriptions

Taking Advantage of Subscriptions

In this episode, I delve into an intriguing thought experiment about subscriptions in life. We often have subscriptions like Netflix or gym memberships, but do we truly maximize their value? I explore examples like streaming platforms, gyms, and even education as subscriptions we either can't fully utilize or choose not to. It's a contemplative journey into the subscriptions we engage with daily, prompting us to question how we make the most of them.

Nov 03, 202207:52
Never Fight in Public

Never Fight in Public

In this episode, I share a peculiar experience that unfolded while I was taking a shower—the perfect time for creativity to strike. As I showered, I inadvertently became an unintended audience for a heated argument between a middle-aged couple in the building corridors. Intrigued, I overheard their dispute, realizing the intensity was escalating. The climax came when the wife dropped the bombshell—she was considering a divorce. This unexpected drama made my shower unusually long as I got absorbed in the unfolding events. I stress the importance of handling personal matters privately rather than in public.

Sep 29, 202208:33