Podcast Title: Therapy Gecko
Episode: “I LIVE IN A CAVE”
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Release Date: April 6, 2025
Introduction
In the episode titled “I LIVE IN A CAVE,” Therapy Gecko, the quirky lizard psychologist host, engages with a unique guest known as Caveman. This episode delves into Caveman’s unconventional lifestyle living in a cave on Tenerife, part of the Canary Islands, exploring themes of solitude, community, personal growth, and mental health.
Guest Introduction: Caveman
[02:07]
Caveman: “Hello.”
Caveman, a 20-year-old Polish native, introduces himself as someone who has chosen an alternative lifestyle by residing in a cave. He explains his journey from Poland to Tenerife, seeking peace and a place away from societal pressures.
Living in a Cave
[02:08] – [12:34]
Caveman shares his experiences living in a cave, highlighting the simplicity and autonomy it affords him. He mentions having solar panels, mattresses found in the trash, and a comfortable setup that allows him to live independently.
Quote:
Caveman: “I've been living in a cave, and I'm having fun.” [04:25]
Challenges and Adaptations
While Caveman enjoys his solitude, he also faces challenges such as sourcing food and maintaining his living space. He explains his method of dumpster diving to find edible items from local markets and hotels, ensuring he sustains himself without conventional employment.
Quote:
Caveman: “I eat from the trash... I was able to find gnocchi with tomatoes and heavy cream sauce.” [14:25]
Community and Relationships
Despite living alone, Caveman emphasizes the importance of community. He interacts with other cave dwellers and friends who visit him, fostering a sense of belonging and support. He also discusses his plans to help others struggling with depression by cooking for them and creating safe spaces.
Quote:
Caveman: “I want to help people and make the world a little better place.” [54:27]
Personal Growth and Mental Health
Caveman opens up about his past struggles with depression and how moving to Tenerife has positively impacted his mental health. He reflects on his journey from being an orphan to finding peace in an unconventional living situation.
Quote:
Caveman: “For the first time in my life, I think, yeah, it's wonderful. I feel peaceful.” [25:37]
Future Plans and Aspirations
Looking ahead, Caveman plans to return to Poland, travel Europe, and engage more deeply in cooking and artistic endeavors. He is inspired by projects like the Last Supper Project and aims to create similar initiatives to support mental health awareness.
Quote:
Caveman: “I'm thinking about doing my own version of it... create a safe space for them.” [51:22]
Audience Interaction
Towards the end of the episode, Therapy Gecko engages with live listeners from Twitch chat, addressing their questions about Caveman’s lifestyle. This interaction adds depth to the conversation, allowing listeners to gain a more comprehensive understanding of living off the grid.
Quote:
Listener Question: “Do you smash a lot of cave chicks?”
Caveman: “No, no and no. I know this is not my thing.” [34:25]
Final Thoughts and Reflections
As the episode wraps up, both Therapy Gecko and Caveman reflect on the importance of community, personal choices, and mental well-being. Caveman emphasizes taking simple actions like buying ice cream to cope with depression, while Therapy Gecko shares his inspirations from Caveman’s story.
Quote:
Caveman: “If you are depressed and you are thinking about what is the purpose of living, just go and buy yourself ice cream.” [57:40]
Conclusion
“I LIVE IN A CAVE” offers a profound look into an alternative lifestyle choice that challenges conventional norms. Caveman’s story is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the pursuit of personal peace. The episode underscores the significance of community, self-reliance, and the continuous journey toward mental well-being.
Notable Quotes:
- Caveman: “I've been living in a cave, and I'm having fun.” [04:25]
- Caveman: “I eat from the trash... I was able to find gnocchi with tomatoes and heavy cream sauce.” [14:25]
- Caveman: “For the first time in my life, I think, yeah, it's wonderful. I feel peaceful.” [25:37]
- Caveman: “I'm thinking about doing my own version of it... create a safe space for them.” [51:22]
- Caveman: “If you are depressed and you are thinking about what is the purpose of living, just go and buy yourself ice cream.” [57:40]
This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the “I LIVE IN A CAVE” episode, providing listeners with insights into Caveman’s unique lifestyle and the meaningful conversations that transpired during the podcast.