08. YYZ Wisdom-Pt. 1 — Hey Matthew & Reid

Toronto host Bradley introduces Matthew and Reid, two "experienced flyers" who defy typical labels. Matthew, a grad student researching prisoner poetry, shares his history of living "on the skip"—navigating homelessness while managing undiagnosed mental health struggles. Reid offers a contrasting perspective, discussing his entry into the scene in his late 50s and the distinction between isolated "partying" and connected "chemsex." The conversation explores the systemic failures pushing people into drug use, reframes addiction as a "super soldier" survival mode, and challenges listeners to see the human resilience beneath the stigma. 

If you’re looking for support, please explore our list of Chemsex resources/services. 

🔗 Other Resources Mentioned 

• Chemstories.ca: The central hub for the project and resources. 

• Park Cruising: What Happens When We Wander Off the Path: Book/research on cruising spots and laws in Toronto by Toronto lawyer Marcus McCann. 

• Michel Foucault: Referenced in relation to "necropolitics" and power dynamics. 

• Bosch's "Ship of Fools": A historical/philosophical reference used by Matthew to describe the displacement of marginalized people.