In this podcast episode, we explore the themes of Stranger Things Season 5, Episode 5, 'Shock Jock' and delve into the representation of vampires as a metaphor for feminine horror. The episode raises urgent questions and introduces new plot points, while the discussion on vampires highlights their symbolic significance in relation to seduction, loss of autonomy, and the reproduction of cycles. The conversation methodically explores the complexity of Henry's character and the tension in the relationships of the characters. It delves into Callie's powers, Joyce's faith in Will, Elle and Hopper's relationship, escape plans, the Sinclair siblings' strategies, the Upside Down and Hawkins Lab, tension between Dustin and Steve, Jonathan and Nancy's relationship, Callie's revelation and backstory, the lies we tell ourselves and others, the ongoing tension between Dustin and Steve, the showdown with Vecna, and Nancy's decision leading to a cliffhanger ending.

Takeaways

• Stranger Things Season 5, Episode 5, 'Shock Jock' is a thrilling and urgent episode that raises questions and introduces new plot points.
• The Vampire Myth as Feminine Horror explores the representation of vampires as a metaphor for seduction, loss of autonomy, and the reproduction of cycles. Henry's character is more complex than just a villain with a plan
• The tension and emotional beats in the relationships of the characters are central to the story

Chapters

• 00:00 The Vampire Myth as Feminine Horror
• 49:37 The Creel House and Henry's Plan
• 54:40 Joyce's Faith in Will and His Powers
• 59:45 Tension Between Characters and Emotional Growth
• 01:05:28 The Upside Down and Hawkins Lab
• 01:13:50 Tension Between Dustin and Steve
• 01:18:53 Callie's Revelation and Backstory
• 01:25:35 Tension Between Dustin and Steve Continues
• 01:31:46 The Showdown with Vecna and Max's Escape

Summary

In this episode of Femme & Furious, host Julia Rose Portela delves into the themes of emotional intimacy, toxic masculinity, and representation in the context of the show Heated Rivalry. The conversation explores the significance of visibility in sports, the impact of societal norms on queer relationships, and the journey of characters navigating their identities and relationships. Through a feminist lens, Julia highlights the importance of acceptance, vulnerability, and the cultural implications of storytelling in media.

In this episode of Femme & Furious, host Julia Rose Portela dives deep into the themes of Stranger Things Episode 4, titled 'Sorcerer.' The discussion explores the intersection of queer storytelling and feminist themes, particularly focusing on the character of Will Byers as a representation of a queer sorcerer. Julia emphasizes the importance of acceptance, vulnerability, and the impact of trauma on Will's powers, while also highlighting the role of allyship through the character of Robin. The episode culminates in a thrilling climax with Vecna, showcasing Will's transformation and the significance of his journey.

Synopsis: Summary

In this engaging conversation, Julia Portela and Ren Browne explore the themes of fandom, romance, and masculinity as they discuss the popular show Heated Rivalry.

Sources, Recs & Mentions

• Books mentioned

Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid

The Long Game by Rachel Reid

Adversity by Ren Browne

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@Juliaroseportela

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Credits

Host: Julia Rose Portela
Production: Femme & Furious Studios
Thanks for listening, babes.

Synopsis: In this episode of Femme & Furious, host Julia Rose Portela dives deep into Season 5, Episode 3 of Stranger Things, titled 'The Turnbow Trap.'

Chapters:

Sources, Recs & Mentions

• Books mentioned

An Encyclopedia of Fairies by Katharine Briggs

The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C.S Lewis

Woman and the Demon by Nina Auerbach

• Shows referenced

Alice in Wonderland

Spirited Away

Coraline

Back to the Future

Labyrinth

Poltergeist

Hansel & Gretel

Gremlins

The Homeric Hymn to Demeter - Myth of Persephone

Lipstick & Lore: Monthly Newsletter
Where I send the vibes, the recs, and the unhinged opinions I can’t fit into the pod.

Substack & Patreon

Long-form thoughts, extra analysis, behind-the-scenes, and bonus commentary

Read + subscribe: [Substack] or [Patreon]

YouTube

Instagram & TikTok - @femmeandfuriouspod

Support the Show

If you loved this episode, share it with your BFF, rate/review , or send it to someone who also screams every time a female character isn’t given interiority.

Say Hi!

DM me on IG, reply to my newsletter, or drop a voicemail question for future “You’ve Got Femme Mail” segments.
Connect:femmeandfuriouspod@gmail.com

Host: Julia Rose Portela
Production: Femme & Furious Studios
Thanks for listening, babes.

In this episode of Femme & Furious, host Julia Rose Portela delves into the feminist themes present in the popular series Stranger Things, particularly focusing on the implications of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and its historical context. The conversation explores how ECT has disproportionately affected women, the gendered lens through which mental health is viewed, and the narratives surrounding female characters in the show. Through a detailed breakdown of episodes from Season 2, Portela highlights the intersections of trauma, power, and the societal expectations placed on women, drawing parallels between the fictional world of Hawkins and real-world issues of consent and agency.

In this engaging conversation, Julia and Jess explore the profound impact of joy in hobbies and community, particularly within the Bookstagram space. They discuss the importance of connection through social media, the challenges of navigating book influences, and the significance of vulnerability in sharing personal experiences. The dialogue highlights the celebration of female characters in literature and the joy that reading brings, emphasizing that literature can be a source of comfort and connection in a chaotic world.

Chaos Cadre Book Club - https://fable.co/club/the-chaos-cadre-with-jess-299750121552?invite=8cdaaa34-b523-4104-b197-050ea9444614

Chaos Cadre Merch - https://www.etsy.com/shop/onceuponaplottwist?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=1834789342&from_page=listing§ion_id=52315285

2 Femme, 2 Furious Community - use code CHAOS at checkout for 50% off first month https://www.patreon.com/femmeandfurious

In this episode of Femme & Furious, host Julia Rose Portela explores the unique and often misunderstood experience of women in the girl's bathroom. She discusses the camaraderie, safety, and community that women find in this space. Julia highlights the importance of bathroom besties, the political implications surrounding women's bathrooms, and the need for safe spaces for women. Through personal anecdotes and cultural references, she emphasizes the magic of connection and support that occurs in these moments, while also addressing the challenges women face in society.

For more information about the woman getting arrested in the women's bathroom - https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2025/03/cops-burst-into-womens-restroom-to-remove-butch-lesbian-accusing-her-of-being-a-man/

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