If students have used one of the Prep bathrooms recently, they have probably noticed the flyer taped to the stall that is flush with delightful little puzzles, movie reviews, music playlists, self-help advice, and more. This bit of yellow journalism is known as Potty Talk, and while the contents can be a bit random, its aim is to bring joy to what can often be an unpleasant bathroom experience.
The idea for Potty Talk was developed long before its first (t)issue came out in November. Over the summer, Potty Talk creators Caroline Cacabelos ‘14, Michael Thorson ‘14, Max Nelson ‘14, James Ferrese ‘15, Roy Matthew ‘15, and Siena Jeakle ‘15 were digesting ways to provide a constant source of fun for the Prep community.
“We do great assemblies and dances, but we were trying to think of something that would allow students to relieve themselves of the stresses that come with school.” says Junior ASB executive Siena Jeakle ‘15.
“We thought Potty Talk would be the perfect way to give people something to look forward to every day.” Continued Jeakle.
In an effort to hold on to their dreams of making Potty Talk come to pass, the execs presented the idea to their supervisor in October and expressed how they believed in it with every fiber of their being. When they received permission to publish Potty Talk, the execs immediately began to design the first (t)issue. They threw together a “meh” list, a playlist of the month, an “Ask Roy” advice column, puzzles, a movie review, and more segments to keep students occupied.
The public reaction to Potty Talk has been amazing. When the number one edition was put into restrooms, the Prep community was ecstatic to see the pamphlets gracing the stalls. Sam Eco ’16 is one of Potty Talk’s biggest fans.
“Sometimes I just go in the bathroom and try to solve the puzzles. When I figured out the riddle and realized the answer was ‘chair’ that literally made my life.”
As far as the future of Potty Talk is concerned, the publishers hope to make it a regular part of the Prep experience. With a new edition every month, there will be new riddles, movie reviews, and comic strips for the pulic to enjoy. Siena Jeakle ‘15 and her fellow ASB execs have very high expectations for the Potty Talks yet to come:
“We really believe that future ASB members will keep publishing Potty Talk. Hopefully we have started a new Seattle Prep tradition that will go on for a long, long time.”