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What if the most transformative thing you can do for your writing craft and author business is to face what you fear? How can you can find gold in your Shadow in the year ahead? In this episode, I share chapters from Writing the Shadow: Turn Your Inner Darkness Into Words. In the intro, curated book boxes from Bridgerton's Julia Quinn; Google's agentic shopping, and powering Apple's Siri; ChatGPT Ads; and Claude CoWork. Balancing Certainty and Uncertainty [MoonShots with Tony Robbins]; and three trends for authors with me and Orna Ross [Self-Publishing with ALLi Podcast]; plus, Bones of the Deep, Business for Authors, and Indie Author Lab. This show is supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn  Joanna Penn writes non-fiction for authors and is an award-winning, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of thrillers, dark fantasy, and memoir as J.F. Penn. She's also an award-winning podcaster, creative entrepreneur, and international professional speaker. What is the Shadow? The ‘creative wound' and the Shadow in writing The Shadow in traditional publishing The Shadow in self-publishing or being an indie author The Shadow in work The Shadow in money You can find Writing the Shadow in all formats on all stores, as well as special edition, workbook and bundles at www.TheCreativePenn.com/shadowbook Writing the Shadow: Turn Your Inner Darkness Into Words The following chapters are excerpted from Writing the Shadow: Turn Your Inner Darkness Into Words by Joanna Penn. Introduction. What is the Shadow? “How can I be substantial if I do not cast a shadow? I must have a dark side also if I am to be whole.” —C.G. Jung, Modern Man in Search of a Soul We all have a Shadow side and it is the work of a lifetime to recognise what lies within and spin that base material into gold. Think of it as a seedling in a little pot that you're given when you're young. It's a bit misshapen and weird, not something you would display in your living room, so you place it in a dark corner of the basement. You don't look at it for years. You almost forget about it. Then one day you notice tendrils of something wild poking up through the floorboards. They're ugly and don't fit with your Scandi-minimalist interior design. You chop the tendrils away and pour weedkiller on what's left, trying to hide the fact that they were ever there. But the creeping stems keep coming. At some point, you know you have to go down there and face the wild thing your seedling has become. When you eventually pluck up enough courage to go down into the basement, you discover that the plant has wound its roots deep into the foundations of your home. Its vines weave in and out of the cracks in the walls, and it has beautiful flowers and strange fruit. It holds your world together. Perhaps you don't need to destroy the wild tendrils. Perhaps you can let them wind up into the light and allow their rich beauty to weave through your home. It will change the look you have so carefully cultivated, but maybe that's just what the place needs. The Shadow in psychology Carl Gustav Jung was a Swiss psychologist and the founder of analytical psychology. He described the Shadow as an unconscious aspect of the human personality, those parts of us that don't match up to what is expected of us by family and society, or to our own ideals. The Shadow is not necessarily evil or illegal or immoral, although of course it can be. It's also not necessarily caused by trauma, abuse, or any other severely damaging event, although again, it can be. It depends on the individual. What is in your Shadow is based on your life and your experiences, as well as your culture and society, so it will be different for everyone. Psychologist Connie Zweig, in The Inner Work of Age, explains, “The Shadow is that part of us that lies beneath or behind the light of awareness. It contains our rejected, unacceptable traits and feelings. It contains our hidden gifts and talents that have remained unexpressed or unlived. As Jung put it, the essence of the Shadow is pure gold.” To further illustrate the concept, Robert Bly, in A Little Book on the Human Shadow,uses the following metaphor: “When we are young, we carry behind us an invisible bag, into which we stuff any feelings, thoughts, or behaviours that bring disapproval or loss of love—anger, tears, neediness, laziness. By the time we go to school, our bags are already a mile long. In high school, our peer groups pressure us to stuff the bags with even more—individuality, sexuality, spontaneity, different opinions. We spend our life until we're twenty deciding which parts of ourselves to put into the bag and we spend the rest of our lives trying to get them out again.” As authors, we can use what's in the ‘bag' to enrich our writing — but only if we can access it. My intention with this book is to help you venture into your Shadow and bring some of what's hidden into the light and into your words. I'll reveal aspects of my Shadow in these pages but ultimately, this book is about you. Your Shadow is unique. There may be elements we share, but much will be different. Each chapter has questions for you to consider that may help you explore at least the edges of your Shadow, but it's not easy. As Jung said, “One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious. The latter procedure, however, is disagreeable and therefore not popular.” But take heart, Creative. You don't need courage when things are easy. You need it when you know what you face will be difficult, but you do it anyway. We are authors. We know how to do hard things. We turn ideas into books. We manifest thoughts into ink on paper. We change lives with our writing. First, our own, then other people's. It's worth the effort to delve into Shadow, so I hope you will join me on the journey. The creative wound and the Shadow in writing “Whatever pain you can't get rid of, make it your creative offering.” —Susan Cain, Bittersweet  The more we long for something, the more extreme our desire, the more likely it is to have a Shadow side. For those of us who love books, the author life may well be a long-held dream and thus, it is filled with Shadow. Books have long been objects of desire, power, and authority. They hold a mythic status in our lives. We escaped into stories as children; we studied books at school and college; we read them now for escape and entertainment, education and inspiration. We collect beautiful books to put on our shelves. We go to them for solace and answers to the deepest questions of life. Writers are similarly held in high esteem. They shape culture, win literary prizes, give important speeches, and are quoted in the mainstream media. Their books are on the shelves in libraries and bookstores. Writers are revered, held up as rare, talented creatures made separate from us by their brilliance and insight. For bibliophile children, books were everything and to write one was a cherished dream. To become an author? Well, that would mean we might be someone special, someone worthy. Perhaps when you were young, you thought the dream of being a writer was possible — then you told someone about it. That's probably when you heard the first criticism of such a ridiculous idea, the first laughter, the first dismissal. So you abandoned the dream, pushed the idea of being a writer into the Shadow, and got on with your life. Or if it wasn't then, it came later, when you actually put pen to paper and someone — a parent, teacher, partner, or friend, perhaps even a literary agent or publisher, someone whose opinion you valued — told you it was worthless. Here are some things you might have heard: Writing is a hobby. Get a real job. You're not good enough. You don't have any writing talent. You don't have enough education. You don't know what you're doing. Your writing is derivative / unoriginal / boring / useless / doesn't make sense. The genre you write in is dead / worthless / unacceptable / morally wrong / frivolous / useless.  Who do you think you are? No one would want to read what you write. You can't even use proper grammar, so how could you write a whole book? You're wasting your time. You'll never make it as a writer. You shouldn't write those things (or even think about those things). Why don't you write something nice? Insert other derogatory comment here! Mark Pierce describes the effect of this experience in his book The Creative Wound, which “occurs when an event, or someone's actions or words, pierce you, causing a kind of rift in your soul. A comment—even offhand and unintentional—is enough to cause one.” He goes on to say that such words can inflict “damage to the core of who we are as creators. It is an attack on our artistic identity, resulting in us believing that whatever we make is somehow tainted or invalid, because shame has convinced us there is something intrinsically tainted or invalid about ourselves.” As adults, we might brush off such wounds, belittling them as unimportant in the grand scheme of things. We might even find ourselves saying the same words to other people. After all, it's easier to criticise than to create. But if you picture your younger self, bright eyed as you lose yourself in your favourite book, perhaps you might catch a glimpse of what you longed for before your dreams were dashed on the rocks of other people's reality. As Mark Pierce goes on to say, “A Creative Wound has the power to delay our pursuits—sometimes for years—and it can even derail our lives completely… Anything that makes us feel ashamed of ourselves or our work can render us incapable of the self-expression we yearn for.” This is certainly what happened to me, and it took decades to unwind. Your creative wounds will differ to mine but perhaps my experience will help you explore your own. To be clear, your Shadow may not reside in elements of horror as mine do, but hopefully you can use my example to consider where your creative wounds might lie. “You shouldn't write things like that.” It happened at secondary school around 1986 or 1987, so I would have been around eleven or twelve years old. English was one of my favourite subjects and the room we had our lessons in looked out onto a vibrant garden. I loved going to that class because it was all about books, and they were always my favourite things. One day, we were asked to write a story. I can't remember the specifics of what the teacher asked us to write, but I fictionalised a recurring nightmare. I stood in a dark room. On one side, my mum and my brother, Rod, were tied up next to a cauldron of boiling oil, ready to be thrown in. On the other side, my dad and my little sister, Lucy, were threatened with decapitation by men with machetes. I had to choose who would die. I always woke up, my heart pounding, before I had to choose. Looking back now, it clearly represented an internal conflict about having to pick sides between the two halves of my family. Not an unexpected issue from a child of divorce. Perhaps these days, I might have been sent to the school counsellor, but it was the eighties and I don't think we even had such a thing. Even so, the meaning of the story isn't the point. It was the reaction to it that left scars. “You shouldn't write things like that,” my teacher said, and I still remember her look of disappointment, even disgust. Certainly judgment. She said my writing was too dark. It wasn't a proper story. It wasn't appropriate for the class. As if horrible things never happened in stories — or in life. As if literature could not include dark tales. As if the only acceptable writing was the kind she approved of. We were taught The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie that year, which says a lot about the type of writing considered appropriate. Or perhaps the issue stemmed from the school motto, “So hateth she derknesse,” from Chaucer's The Legend of Good Women: “For fear of night, so she hates the darkness.” I had won a scholarship to a private girls' school, and their mission was to turn us all into proper young ladies. Horror was never on the curriculum. Perhaps if my teacher had encouraged me to write my darkness back then, my nightmares would have dissolved on the page. Perhaps if we had studied Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, or H.P. Lovecraft stories, or Bram Stoker's Dracula, I could have embraced the darker side of literature earlier in my life. My need to push darker thoughts into my Shadow was compounded by my (wonderful) mum's best intentions. We were brought up on the principles of The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale and she tried to shield me and my brother from anything harmful or horrible. We weren't allowed to watch TV much, and even the British school drama Grange Hill was deemed inappropriate. So much of what I've achieved is because my mum instilled in me a “can do” attitude that anything is possible. I'm so grateful to her for that. (I love you, Mum!) But all that happy positivity, my desire to please her, to be a good girl, to make my teachers proud, and to be acceptable to society, meant that I pushed my darker thoughts into Shadow. They were inappropriate. They were taboo. They must be repressed, kept secret, and I must be outwardly happy and positive at all times. You cannot hold back the darkness “The night is dark and full of terrors.” —George R.R. Martin, A Storm of Swords It turned out that horror was on the curriculum, much of it in the form of educational films we watched during lessons. In English Literature, we watched Romeo drink poison and Juliet stab herself in Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet. In Religious Studies, we watched Jesus beaten, tortured, and crucified in The Greatest Story Ever Told, and learned of the variety of gruesome ways that Christian saints were martyred. In Classical Civilisation, we watched gladiators slaughter each other in Spartacus. In Sex Education at the peak of the AIDS crisis in the mid-'80s, we were told of the many ways we could get infected and die. In History, we studied the Holocaust with images of skeletal bodies thrown into mass graves, medical experiments on humans, and grainy videos of marching soldiers giving the Nazi salute. One of my first overseas school field trips was to the World War I battlegrounds of Flanders Fields in Belgium, where we studied the inhuman conditions of the trenches, walked through mass graves, and read war poetry by candlelight. As John McCrae wrote: We are the Dead. Short days agoWe lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields. Did the teachers not realise how deeply a sensitive teenager might feel the darkness of that place? Or have I always been unusual in that places of blood echo deep inside me? And the horrors kept coming. We lived in Bristol, England back then and I learned at school how the city had been part of the slave trade, its wealth built on the backs of people stolen from their homes, sold, and worked to death in the colonies. I had been at school for a year in Malawi, Africa and imagined the Black people I knew drowning, being beaten, and dying on those ships. In my teenage years, the news was filled with ethnic cleansing, mass rape, and massacres during the Balkan wars, and images of bodies hacked apart during the Rwandan genocide. Evil committed by humans against other humans was not a historical aberration. I'm lucky and I certainly acknowledge my privilege. Nothing terrible or horrifying has happened to me — but bad things certainly happen to others. I wasn't bullied or abused. I wasn't raped or beaten or tortured. But you don't have to go through things to be afraid of them, and for your imagination to conjure the possibility of them. My mum doesn't read my fiction now as it gives her nightmares (Sorry, Mum!). I know she worries that somehow she's responsible for my darkness, but I've had a safe and (mostly) happy life, for which I'm truly grateful. But the world is not an entirely safe and happy place, and for a sensitive child with a vivid imagination, the world is dark and scary. It can be brutal and violent, and bad things happen, even to good people. No parent can shield their child from the reality of the world. They can only help them do their best to live in it, develop resilience, and find ways to deal with whatever comes. Story has always been a way that humans have used to learn how to live and deal with difficult times. The best authors, the ones that readers adore and can't get enough of, write their darkness into story to channel their experience, and help others who fear the same. In an interview on writing the Shadow on The Creative Penn Podcast, Michaelbrent Collings shared how he incorporated a personally devastating experience into his writing:  “My wife and I lost a child years back, and that became the root of one of my most terrifying books, Apparition. It's not terrifying because it's the greatest book of all time, but just the concept that there's this thing out there… like a demon, and it consumes the blood and fear of the children, and then it withdraws and consumes the madness of the parents… I wrote that in large measure as a way of working through what I was experiencing.” I've learned much from Michaelbrent. I've read many of his (excellent) books and he's been on my podcast multiple times talking about his depression and mental health issues, as well as difficulties in his author career. Writing darkness is not in Michaelbrent's Shadow and only he can say what lies there for him. But from his example, and from that of other authors, I too learned how to write my Shadow into my books. Twenty-three years after that English lesson, in November 2009, I did NaNoWriMo, National Novel Writing Month, and wrote five thousand words of what eventually became Stone of Fire, my first novel. In the initial chapter, I burned a nun alive on the ghats of Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges River. I had watched the bodies burn by night on pyres from a boat bobbing in the current a few years before, and the image was still crystal clear in my mind. The only way to deal with how it made me feel about death was to write about it — and since then, I've never stopped writing. Returning to the nightmare from my school days, I've never had to choose between the two halves of my family, but the threat of losing them remains a theme in my fiction. In my ARKANE thriller series, Morgan Sierra will do anything to save her sister and her niece. Their safety drives her to continue to fight against evil. Our deepest fears emerge in our writing, and that's the safest place for them. I wish I'd been taught how to turn my nightmares into words back at school, but at least now I've learned to write my Shadow onto the page. I wish the same for you. The Shadow in traditional publishing If becoming an author is your dream, then publishing a book is deeply entwined with that. But as Mark Pierce says in The Creative Wound, “We feel pain the most where it matters the most… Desire highlights whatever we consider to be truly significant.” There is a lot of desire around publishing for those of us who love books! It can give you: Validation that your writing is good enough Status and credibility Acceptance by an industry held in esteem  The potential of financial reward and critical acclaim Support from a team of professionals who know how to make fantastic books A sense of belonging to an elite community Pride in achieving a long-held goal, resulting in a confidence boost and self-esteem Although not guaranteed, traditional publishing can give you all these things and more, but as with everything, there is a potential Shadow side. Denying it risks the potential of being disillusioned, disappointed, and even damaged. But remember, forewarned is forearmed, as the saying goes. Preparation can help you avoid potential issues and help you feel less alone if you encounter them. The myth of success… and the reality of experience There is a pervasive myth of success in the traditional publishing industry, perpetuated by media reporting on brand name and breakout authors, those few outliers whose experience is almost impossible to replicate. Because of such examples, many new traditionally published authors think that their first book will hit the top of the bestseller charts or win an award, as well as make them a million dollars — or at least a big chunk of cash. They will be able to leave their job, write in a beautiful house overlooking the ocean, and swan around the world attending conferences, while writing more bestselling books. It will be a charmed life. But that is not the reality. Perhaps it never was. Even so, the life of a traditionally published author represents a mythic career with the truth hidden behind a veil of obscurity. In April 2023, The Bookseller in the UK reported that “more than half of authors (54%) responding to a survey on their experiences of publishing their debut book have said the process negatively affected their mental health. Though views were mixed, just 22%… described a positive experience overall… Among the majority who said they had a negative experience of debut publication, anxiety, stress, depression and ‘lowered' self-esteem were cited, with lack of support, guidance or clear and professional communication from their publisher among the factors that contributed.” Many authors who have negative experiences around publishing will push them into the Shadow with denial or self-blame, preferring to keep the dream alive. They won't talk about things in public as this may negatively affect their careers, but private discussions are often held in the corners of writing conferences or social media groups online. Some of the issues are as follows: Repeated rejection by agents and publishers may lead to the author thinking they are not good enough as a writer, which can lead to feeling unworthy as a person. If an author gets a deal, the amount of advance and the name and status of the publisher compared to others create a hierarchy that impacts self-esteem. A deal for a book may be much lower than an author might have been expecting, with low or no advance, and the resulting experience with the publisher beneath expectations. The launch process may be disappointing, and the book may appear without fanfare, with few sales and no bestseller chart position. In The Bookseller report, one author described her launch day as “a total wasteland… You have expectations about what publication day will be like, but in reality, nothing really happens.” The book may receive negative reviews by critics or readers or more publicly on social media, which can make an author feel attacked. The book might not sell as well as expected, and the author may feel like it's their fault. Commercial success can sometimes feel tied to self-worth and an author can't help but compare their sales to others, with resulting embarrassment or shame. The communication from the publisher may be less than expected. One author in The Bookseller report said, “I was shocked by the lack of clarity and shared information and the cynicism that underlies the superficial charm of this industry.” There is often more of a focus on debut authors in publishing houses, so those who have been writing and publishing in the midlist for years can feel ignored and undervalued. In The Bookseller report, 48 percent of authors reported “their publisher supported them for less than a year,” with one saying, “I got no support and felt like a commodity, like the team had moved on completely to the next book.” If an author is not successful enough, the next deal may be lower than the last, less effort is made with marketing, and they may be let go. In The Bookseller report, “six authors—debut and otherwise—cited being dropped by their publisher, some with no explanation.” Even if everything goes well and an author is considered successful by others, they may experience imposter syndrome, feeling like a fraud when speaking at conferences or doing book signings. And the list goes on … All these things can lead to feelings of shame, inadequacy, and embarrassment; loss of status in the eyes of peers; and a sense of failure if a publishing career is not successful enough. The author feels like it's their fault, like they weren't good enough — although, of course, the reality is that the conditions were not right at the time. A failure of a book is not a failure of the person, but it can certainly feel like it! When you acknowledge the Shadow, it loses its power Despite all the potential negatives of traditional publishing, if you know what could happen, you can mitigate them. You can prepare yourself for various scenarios and protect yourself from potential fall-out. It's clear from The Bookseller report that too many authors have unrealistic expectations of the industry. But publishers are businesses, not charities. It's not their job to make you feel good as an author. It's their job to sell books and pay you. The best thing they can do is to continue to be a viable business so they can keep putting books on the shelves and keep paying authors, staff, and company shareholders. When you license your creative work to a publisher, you're giving up control of your intellectual property in exchange for money and status. Bring your fears and issues out of the Shadow, acknowledge them, and deal with them early, so they do not get pushed down and re-emerge later in blame and bitterness. Educate yourself on the business of publishing. Be clear on what you want to achieve with any deal. Empower yourself as an author, take responsibility for your career, and you will have a much better experience. The Shadow in self-publishing or being an indie author Self-publishing, or being an independent (indie) author, can be a fantastic, pro-active choice for getting your book into the world. Holding your first book in your hand and saying “I made this” is pretty exciting, and even after more than forty books, I still get excited about seeing ideas in my head turn into a physical product in the world. Self-publishing can give an author: Creative control over what to write, editorial and cover design choices, when and how often to publish, and how to market Empowerment over your author career and the ability to make choices that impact success without asking for permission Ownership and control of intellectual property assets, resulting in increased opportunity around licensing and new markets Independence and the potential for recurring income for the long term Autonomy and flexibility around timelines, publishing options, and the ability to easily pivot into new genres and business models Validation based on positive reader reviews and money earned Personal growth and learning through the acquisition of new skills, resulting in a boost in confidence and self-esteem A sense of belonging to an active and vibrant community of indie authors around the world Being an indie author can give you all this and more, but once again, there is a Shadow side and preparation can help you navigate potential issues. The myth of success… and the reality of experience As with traditional publishing, the indie author world has perpetuated a myth of success in the example of the breakout indie author like E.L. James with Fifty Shades of Grey, Hugh Howey with Wool, or Andy Weir with The Martian. The emphasis on financial success is also fuelled online by authors who share screenshots showing six-figure months or seven-figure years, without sharing marketing costs and other outgoings, or the amount of time spent on the business. Yes, these can inspire some, but it can also make others feel inadequate and potentially lead to bad choices about how to publish and market based on comparison. The indie author world is full of just as much ego and a desire for status and money as traditional publishing. This is not a surprise! Most authors, regardless of publishing choices, are a mix of massive ego and chronic self-doubt. We are human, so the same issues will re-occur. A different publishing method doesn't cure all ills. Some of the issues are as follows: You learn everything you need to know about writing and editing, only to find that you need to learn a whole new set of skills in order to self-publish and market your book. This can take a lot of time and effort you did not expect, and things change all the time so you have to keep learning. Being in control of every aspect of the publishing process, from writing to cover design to marketing, can be overwhelming, leading to indecision, perfectionism, stress, and even burnout as you try to do all the things. You try to find people to help, but building your team is a challenge, and working with others has its own difficulties. People say negative things about self-publishing that may arouse feelings of embarrassment or shame. These might be little niggles, but they needle you, nonetheless. You wonder whether you made the right choice. You struggle with self-doubt and if you go to an event with traditional published authors, you compare yourself to them and feel like an imposter. Are you good enough to be an author if a traditional publisher hasn't chosen you? Is it just vanity to self-publish? Are your books unworthy? Even though you worked with a professional editor, you still get one-star reviews and you hate criticism from readers. You wonder whether you're wasting your time. You might be ripped off by an author services company who promise the world, only to leave you with a pile of printed books in your garage and no way to sell them. When you finally publish your book, it languishes at the bottom of the charts while other authors hit the top of the list over and over, raking in the cash while you are left out of pocket. You don't admit to over-spending on marketing as it makes you ashamed. You resist book marketing and make critical comments about writers who embrace it. You believe that quality rises to the top and if a book is good enough, people will buy it anyway. This can lead to disappointment and disillusionment when you launch your book and it doesn't sell many copies because nobody knows about it. You try to do what everyone advises, but you still can't make decent money as an author. You're jealous of other authors' success and put it down to them ‘selling out' or writing things you can't or ‘using AI' or ‘using a ghostwriter' or having a specific business model you consider impossible to replicate. And the list goes on… When you acknowledge the Shadow, it loses its power Being in control of your books and your author career is a double-edged sword. Traditionally published authors can criticise their publishers or agents or the marketing team or the bookstores or the media, but indie authors have to take responsibility for it all. Sure, we can blame ‘the algorithms' or social media platforms, or criticise other authors for having more experience or more money to invest in marketing, or attribute their success to writing in a more popular genre — but we also know there are always people who do well regardless of the challenges. Once more, we're back to acknowledging and integrating the Shadow side of our choices. We are flawed humans. There will always be good times and bad, and difficulties to offset the high points. This too shall pass, as the old saying goes. I know that being an indie author has plenty of Shadow. I've been doing this since 2008 and despite the hard times, I'm still here. I'm still writing. I'm still publishing. This life is not for everyone, but it's my choice. You must make yours. The Shadow in work You work hard. You make a living. Nothing wrong with that attitude, right? It's what we're taught from an early age and, like so much of life, it's not a problem until it goes to extremes. Not achieving what you want to? Work harder. Can't get ahead? Work harder. Not making a good enough living? Work harder. People who don't work hard are lazy. They don't deserve handouts or benefits. People who don't work hard aren't useful, so they are not valued members of our culture and community. But what about the old or the sick, the mentally ill, or those with disabilities? What about children? What about the unemployed? The under-employed? What about those who are — or will be — displaced by technology, those called “the useless class” by historian Yuval Noah Harari in his book Homo Deus? What if we become one of these in the future? Who am I if I cannot work? The Shadow side of my attitude to work became clear when I caught COVID in the summer of 2021. I was the sickest I'd ever been. I spent two weeks in bed unable to even think properly, and six weeks after that, I was barely able to work more than an hour a day before lying in the dark and waiting for my energy to return. I was limited in what I could do for another six months after that. At times, I wondered if I would ever get better. Jonathan kept urging me to be patient and rest. But I don't know how to rest. I know how to work and how to sleep. I can do ‘active rest,' which usually involves walking a long way or traveling somewhere interesting, but those require a stronger mind and body than I had during those months. It struck me that even if I recovered from the virus, I had glimpsed my future self. One day, I will be weak in body and mind. If I'm lucky, that will be many years away and hopefully for a short time before I die — but it will happen. I am an animal. I will die. My body and mind will pass on and I will be no more. Before then I will be weak. Before then, I will be useless. Before then, I will be a burden. I will not be able to work… But who am I if I cannot work? What is the point of me? I can't answer these questions right now, because although I recognise them as part of my Shadow, I've not progressed far enough to have dealt with them entirely. My months of COVID gave me some much-needed empathy for those who cannot work, even if they want to. We need to reframe what work is as a society, and value humans for different things, especially as technology changes what work even means. That starts with each of us. “Illness, affliction of body and soul, can be life-altering. It has the potential to reveal the most fundamental conflict of the human condition: the tension between our infinite, glorious dreams and desires and our limited, vulnerable, decaying physicality.” —Connie Zweig, The Inner Work of Age: Shifting from Role to Soul The Shadow in money In the Greek myth, King Midas was a wealthy ruler who loved gold above all else. His palace was adorned with golden sculptures and furniture, and he took immense pleasure in his riches. Yet, despite his vast wealth, he yearned for more. After doing a favour for Dionysus, the god of wine and revelry, Midas was granted a single wish. Intoxicated by greed, he wished that everything he touched would turn to gold — and it was so. At first, it was a lot of fun. Midas turned everything else in his palace to gold, even the trees and stones of his estate. After a morning of turning things to gold, he fancied a spot of lunch. But when he tried to eat, the food and drink turned to gold in his mouth. He became thirsty and hungry — and increasingly desperate. As he sat in despair on his golden throne, his beloved young daughter ran to comfort him. For a moment, he forgot his wish — and as she wrapped her arms around him and kissed his cheek, she turned into a golden statue, frozen in precious metal. King Midas cried out to the gods to forgive him, to reverse the wish. He renounced his greed and gave away all his wealth, and his daughter was returned to life. The moral of the story: Wealth and greed are bad. In Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer Scrooge is described as a “squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous, old sinner.” He's wealthy but does not share, considering Christmas spending to be frivolous and giving to charity to be worthless. He's saved by a confrontation with his lonely future and becomes a generous man and benefactor of the poor. Wealth is good if you share it with others. The gospel of Matthew, chapter 25: 14-30, tells the parable of the bags of gold, in which a rich man goes on a journey and entrusts his servants with varying amounts of gold. On his return, the servants who multiplied the gold through their efforts and investments are rewarded, while the one who merely returned the gold with no interest is punished: “For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.” Making money is good, making more money is even better. If you can't make any money, you don't deserve to have any. Within the same gospel, in Matthew 19:24, Jesus encounters a wealthy man and tells him to sell all his possessions and give the money to the poor, which the man is unable to do. Jesus says, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Wealth is bad. Give it all away and you'll go to heaven. With all these contradictory messages, no wonder we're so conflicted about money! How do you think and feel about money? While money is mostly tied to our work, it's far more than just a transactional object for most people. It's loaded with complex symbolism and judgment handed down by family, religion, and culture. You are likely to find elements of Shadow by examining your attitudes around money. Consider which of the following statements resonate with you or write your own. Money stresses me out. I don't want to talk about it or think about it. Some people hoard money, so there is inequality. Rich people are bad and we should take away their wealth and give it to the poor.  I can never make enough money to pay the bills, or to give my family what I want to provide. Money doesn't grow on trees.  It's wasteful to spend money as you might need it later, so I'm frugal and don't spend money unless absolutely necessary. It is better and more ethical to be poor than to be rich. I want more money. I read books and watch TV shows about rich people because I want to live like that. Sometimes I spend too much on things for a glimpse of what that might be like.  I buy lottery tickets and dream of winning all that money.  I'm jealous of people who have money. I want more of it and I resent those who have it. I'm no good with money. I don't like to look at my bank statement or credit card statement. I live off my overdraft and I'm in debt. I will never earn enough to get out of debt and start saving, so I don't think too much about it. I don't know enough about money. Talking about it makes me feel stupid, so I just ignore it. People like me aren't educated about money.  I need to make more money. If I can make lots of money, then people will look up to me. If I make lots of money, I will be secure, nothing can touch me, I will be safe.  I never want to be poor. I would be ashamed to be poor. I will never go on benefits. My net worth is my self worth. Money is good. We have the best standard of living in history because of the increase in wealth over time. Even the richest kings of the past didn't have what many middle-class people have today in terms of access to food, water, technology, healthcare, education, and more. The richest people give the most money to the poor through taxation and charity, as well as through building companies that employ people and invent new things. The very richest give away much of their fortunes. They provide far more benefit to the world than the poor.  I love money. Money loves me. Money comes easily and quickly to me. I attract money in multiple streams of income. It flows to me in so many ways. I spend money. I invest money. I give money. I'm happy and grateful for all that I receive. The Shadow around money for authors in particular Many writers and other creatives have issues around money and wealth. How often have you heard the following, and which do you agree with? You can't make money with your writing. You'll be a poor author in a garret, a starving artist.  You can't write ‘good quality' books and make money. If you make money writing, you're a hack, you're selling out. You are less worthy than someone who writes only for the Muse. Your books are commercial, not artistic. If you spend money on marketing, then your books are clearly not good enough to sell on their own. My agent / publisher / accountant / partner deals with the money side. I like to focus on the creative side of things. My money story Note: This is not financial or investment advice. Please talk to a professional about your situation. I've had money issues over the years — haven't we all! But I have been through a (long) process to bring money out of my Shadow and into the light. There will always be more to discover, but hopefully my money story will help you, or at least give you an opportunity to reflect. Like most people, I didn't grow up with a lot of money. My parents started out as teachers, but later my mum — who I lived with, along with my brother — became a change management consultant, moving to the USA and earning a lot more. I'm grateful that she moved into business because her example changed the way I saw money and provided some valuable lessons. (1) You can change your circumstances by learning more and then applying that to leverage opportunity into a new job or career Mum taught English at a school in Bristol when we moved back from Malawi, Africa, in the mid '80s but I remember how stressful it was for her, and how little money she made. She wanted a better future for us all, so she took a year out to do a master's degree in management. In the same way, when I wanted to change careers and leave consulting to become an author, I spent time and money learning about the writing craft and the business of publishing. I still invest a considerable chunk on continuous learning, as this industry changes all the time. (2) You might have to downsize in order to leap forward The year my mum did her degree, we lived in the attic of another family's house; we ate a lot of one-pot casserole and our treat was having a Yorkie bar on the walk back from the museum. We wore hand-me-down clothes, and I remember one day at school when another girl said I was wearing her dress. I denied it, of course, but there in back of the dress was her name tag. I still remember her name and I can still feel that flush of shame and embarrassment. I was determined to never feel like that again. But what I didn't realize at the time was that I was also learning the power of downsizing. Mum got her degree and then a new job in management in Bristol. She bought a house, and we settled for a few years. I had lots of different jobs as a teenager. My favourite was working in the delicatessen because we got a free lunch made from delicious produce. After I finished A-levels, I went to the University of Oxford, and my mum and brother moved to the USA for further opportunities. I've downsized multiple times over the years, taking a step back in order to take a step forward. The biggest was in 2010 when I decided to leave consulting. Jonathan and I sold our three-bedroom house and investments in Brisbane, Australia, and rented a one-bedroom flat in London, so we could be debt-free and live on less while I built up a new career. It was a decade before we bought another house. (3) Comparison can be deadly: there will always be people with more money than you Oxford was an education in many ways and relevant to this chapter is how much I didn't know about things people with money took for granted. I learned about formal hall and wine pairings, and how to make a perfect gin and tonic. I ate smoked salmon for the first time. I learned how to fit in with people who had a lot more money than I did, and I definitely wanted to have money of my own to play with. (4) Income is not wealth You can earn lots but have nothing to show for it after years of working. I learned this in my first few years of IT consulting after university. I earned a great salary and then went contracting, earning even more money at a daily rate. I had a wonderful time. I traveled, ate and drank and generally made merry, but I always had to go back to the day job when the money ran out. I couldn't work out how I could ever stop this cycle. Then I read Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, a book I still recommend, especially if you're from a family that values academic over financial education. I learned how to escape the rat race by building and/or accumulating assets that pay even when you're not working. It was a revelation! The ‘poor dad' in the book is a university professor. He knows so much about so many things, but he ends up poor as he did not educate himself about money. The ‘rich dad' has little formal education, but he knows about money and wealth because he learned about it, as we can do at any stage in our lives. (5) Not all investments suit every person, so find the right one for you Once I discovered the world of investing, I read all the books and did courses and in-person events. I joined communities and I up-skilled big time. Of course, I made mistakes and learned lots along the way. I tried property investing and renovated a couple of houses for rental (with more practical partners and skilled contractors). But while I could see that property investing might work for some people, I did not care enough about the details to make it work for me, and it was certainly not passive income. I tried other things. My first husband was a boat skipper and scuba diving instructor, so we started a charter. With the variable costs of fuel, the vagaries of New Zealand weather — and our divorce — it didn't last long! From all these experiments, I learned I wanted to run a business, but it needed to be online and not based on a physical location, physical premises, or other people. That was 2006, around the time that blogging started taking off and it became possible to make a living online. I could see the potential and a year later, the iPhone and the Amazon Kindle launched, which became the basis of my business as an author. (6) Boring, automatic saving and investing works best Between 2007 and 2011, I contracted in Australia, where they have compulsory superannuation contributions, meaning you have to save and invest a percentage of your salary or self-employed income. I'd never done that before, because I didn't understand it. I'd ploughed all my excess income into property or the business instead. But in Australia I didn't notice the money going out because it was automatic. I chose a particular fund and it auto-invested every month. The pot grew pretty fast since I didn't touch it, and years later, it's still growing. I discovered the power of compound interest and time in the market, both of which are super boring. This type of investing is not a get rich quick scheme. It's a slow process of automatically putting money into boring investments and doing that month in, month out, year in, year out, automatically for decades while you get on with your life. I still do this. I earn money as an author entrepreneur and I put a percentage of that into boring investments automatically every month. I also have a small amount which is for fun and higher risk investments, but mostly I'm a conservative, risk-averse investor planning ahead for the future. This is not financial advice, so I'm not giving any specifics. I have a list of recommended money books at www.TheCreativePenn.com/moneybooks if you want to learn more. Learning from the Shadow When I look back, my Shadow side around money eventually drove me to learn more and resulted in a better outcome (so far!). I was ashamed of being poor when I had to wear hand-me-down clothes at school. That drove a fear of not having any money, which partially explains my workaholism. I was embarrassed at Oxford because I didn't know how to behave in certain settings, and I wanted to be like the rich people I saw there. I spent too much money in my early years as a consultant because I wanted to experience a “rich” life and didn't understand saving and investing would lead to better things in the future. I invested too much in the wrong things because I didn't know myself well enough and I was trying to get rich quick so I could leave my job and ‘be happy.' But eventually, I discovered that I could grow my net worth with boring, long-term investments while doing a job I loved as an author entrepreneur. My only regret is that I didn't discover this earlier and put a percentage of my income into investments as soon as I started work. It took several decades to get started, but at least I did (eventually) start. My money story isn't over yet, and I keep learning new things, but hopefully my experience will help you reflect on your own and avoid the issue if it's still in Shadow. These chapters are excerpted from Writing the Shadow: Turn Your Inner Darkness Into Words by Joanna Penn  The post Writing The Shadow: The Creative Wound, Publishing, And Money, With Joanna Penn first appeared on The Creative Penn.

I just flew into Malaysia from the States, so I am almost too drowsy to talk today, and it shows. After a longer-than-usual introduction, we work through three big stories today, followed by a couple of other fun off-the-cuff stories, including my near-deportation from Canada in 2016. Welcome to China Compass on the Fight Laugh Feast network! I'm your China travel guide in exile, Missionary Ben. Follow me on X (@chinaadventures) where I share a new Chinese city or county to pray for every single day. Feel free to write anytime: chinacompass@privacyport.com. All my books, substack, patreon, and everything else can be easily found at PrayGiveGo.us! Now Available on Amazon Kindle and Paperback (+ free on PDF & via Substack): The Millionaire Missionary (BordenofYale.com) China Rewriting Korean History https://asiatimes.com/2025/04/chinas-strategy-in-korea-rewriting-history-to-weaponize-it/# Biden DOD Spent $2.5 Billion Collaborating with the CCP https://washingtonstand.com/article/report-bidens-dod-spent-25-billion-collaborating-with-ccp- Canadians Soon To Enter China Visa Free https://visasnews.com/en/canadians-soon-exempt-from-visa-requirements-to-travel-to-china/ Now let's take a look at this coming week's Pray for China (PrayforChina.us) cities… https://chinacall.substack.com/p/pray-for-china-jan-19-25-2026 Thank you for listening! Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Well, I've finally set up Patreon for those who are interested. There’s also a Paypal link at PrayforChina.us if you’d like to give to our China ministry. Last but not least, for (almost) everything else we’re doing visit PrayGiveGo.us. Luke 10, vs 2: the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few, therefore ask the Lord for more. Talk again soon!

I just flew into Malaysia from the States, so I am almost too drowsy to talk today, and it shows. After a longer-than-usual introduction, we work through three big stories today, followed by a couple of other fun off-the-cuff stories, including my near-deportation from Canada in 2016. Welcome to China Compass on the Fight Laugh Feast network! I'm your China travel guide in exile, Missionary Ben. Follow me on X (@chinaadventures) where I share a new Chinese city or county to pray for every single day. Feel free to write anytime: chinacompass@privacyport.com. All my books, substack, patreon, and everything else can be easily found at PrayGiveGo.us! Now Available on Amazon Kindle and Paperback (+ free on PDF & via Substack): The Millionaire Missionary (BordenofYale.com) China Rewriting Korean History https://asiatimes.com/2025/04/chinas-strategy-in-korea-rewriting-history-to-weaponize-it/# Biden DOD Spent $2.5 Billion Collaborating with the CCP https://washingtonstand.com/article/report-bidens-dod-spent-25-billion-collaborating-with-ccp- Canadians Soon To Enter China Visa Free https://visasnews.com/en/canadians-soon-exempt-from-visa-requirements-to-travel-to-china/ Now let's take a look at this coming week's Pray for China (PrayforChina.us) cities… https://chinacall.substack.com/p/pray-for-china-jan-19-25-2026 Thank you for listening! Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Well, I've finally set up Patreon for those who are interested. There’s also a Paypal link at PrayforChina.us if you’d like to give to our China ministry. Last but not least, for (almost) everything else we’re doing visit PrayGiveGo.us. Luke 10, vs 2: the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few, therefore ask the Lord for more. Talk again soon!

In this conversation, I speak with Sharon Eubank about what it really means to help other people without stripping them of dignity or agency.Drawing on decades of humanitarian work, Sharon reflects on accountability, choice, faith, and why good intentions alone are not enough. We talk about suffering not as an abstract problem, but as something that asks something of us in our communities, our institutions, and our daily lives.This is a thoughtful discussion about responsibility, humility, and the quiet power of doing small things with great love.LINKShttps://www.justserve.org/Doing Small Things with Great Lovehttps://bookshop.org/a/99692/9781639934287I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Welcome back DT Fam for a January Special episode featuring Niki :) she is recounting her engagement story and sharing another super exciting announcement of the next project she is working on! Tune in to find out. Order Niki's book, The Book of Lovers on Amazon/Kindle! Prepare for "the talk" with your children using Cami's course, Empowering Caretakers, and use code EMPOWER for 10$ off. Check out all of our brand partners on our Linktree! The two audios mentioned on today's episode are: Hate F*ck in Love - Voiced by Dolph What's the matter, mommy? - Voiced by NoWhere Eternity

Novelist TJ Poortinga joins me to discuss Electric Orange, a prophetic satire exposing Christian nationalism, evangelical power, masculinity, and political rage — written by someone who knows the culture from the inside._____LINKSElectric Orange by TJ Poortingahttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FRKVT7KXhttps://bookshop.org/a/99692/9798999882400I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

✨ Re-Release: A Conversation Worth Hearing Again ✨We're rereleasing this deeply moving episode because its message of grief, love, healing, and spiritual connection is timeless.Join Irene in an intimate conversation with internationally acclaimed artist and author Charlie Bynar, whose journey through profound loss led to extraordinary spiritual awakening. After losing her son Isaac at sixteen and her husband Chris just a few years later, Charlie found healing by reaching beyond the veil—receiving guidance and messages that continue to inspire others.Charlie shares her experience co-writing Through the Darkness: A Story of Love from the Other Side with Isaac after his transition, a #1 Amazon Kindle bestseller, along with insights on grief, forgiveness, mediumship, and the unbreakable truth that love never dies.Whether this is your first listen or a return, this episode offers comfort, hope, and a powerful reminder that we are never truly alone.

Filmmaker Petra Costa and producer Alessandra Orofino join Frank Schaeffer to explore how evangelical movements fused with authoritarian politics in Brazil—and why the same forces are reshaping democracy in the United States.Watch Apocalypse in the TropicsI have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

「【本日まで】Kindleストア「対象作品ALL88円セール」。『薫る花は凛と咲く』『ブルーロック』などがお得に」　AmazonのKindleストアでは現在、「今年もお疲れ様でした！来年もハッピー（88）に過ごそう！ 対象作品ALL88円セール」を開催している。キャンペーン期間は本日の12月31日（水）23時59分までで、対象作品をすべて88円で購入できる年末恒例のセールだ。

「『カイジ』『アカギ』など人気作品が55円！Kindleマンガ99円以下の「冬のマンガ祭り」」　Amazon Kindleストアにて、『カイジ』や『アカギ』などの人気マンガ作品が99円以下で読める「冬のマンガ祭り2025」が実施中。キャンペーン期間は2026年1月1日(木)23時59分まで。

Send us a textWelcome to Safe Dividend Investing's Podcast # 255, on December 27th of 2025.  My name is Ian Duncan MacDonald, and I am an author of six investment books. I finally finished the editing and formatting of my latest book, “Achieving Financial Independence Safely. 200 NYSE Stocks - Analyzed and Scored”. Early next week it will be forwarded to Amazon/Kindle. As soon as it is available, I will be informing all those who sent emails to me at imacd@informus.ca requesting when they could order it at the the initial discounted price.  During the following week I came across an article by an investment analyst at a large firm. He excitedly reported that Microsoft paid out in dollars a higher dividend than any of  the S&P 500 companies. Since a Microsoft stock could be bought for $487.71 and paid out a dividend $3.64 over a year I found it hard to believe that $3.64 was something to brag about. I also wondered for such a profitable company where were the billions in profit going?This podcast deals with stock options, investment charges, greed, inflation, Verizon, portfolio's of 20 stocks, speculator blindness and achieving financial independence.  My books are not get-rich-quick books. They are about taking a little time to carefully seek out financially strong companies with long histories of paying ever rising high  dividends accompanied by rising share prices. Diversification and patience win out in investing. Please, visit my website www.informus.ca if you wish to learn more about me and my writing.Ian Duncan MacDonald Author and Commercial Risk Consultant,President of Informus Inc 2 Vista Humber Drive Toronto, Ontario Canada, M9P 3R7 Toronto Telephone - 416-245-4994 New York Telephone - 929-800-2397 imacd@informus.ca

What happens when a beagle bred for laboratory research gets a second life—and changes a human forever?Journalist and author Melanie D.G. Kaplan joins me for a conversation about her book Lab Dog: A Beagle and His Human Investigate the Surprising World of Animal Research.It's also our December pick for It Has to Be Read.At the center of the story is Hammy—a former lab dog who survived isolation, fear, and trauma, and went on to teach lessons about forgiveness, patience, joy, and what it truly means to be alive.This episode explores:The hidden reality of animal research in the U.S.Why tens of thousands of dogs are still used in labsHow love and companionship can rehabilitate traumaWhat dogs teach humans about forgiveness and presenceWhy compassion may be our last shared moral languageIf you love dogs, care about ethics, or believe stories can change the world, I hope you'll watch, listen, and share.LINKhttps://melaniedgkaplan.comI have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

>>Join DECADE Golf - 20% off using code "WICKEDSMART" >>Get my new book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula, on Amazon (Kindle, paperback, or hardcover - Audible will be released soon).  Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support!  Today's guest is a podcast listener and Wicked Smart fan who got to a single digit WITHOUT swing changes. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: Why DECADE Golf is a gamechanger. The power of self-talk to turn the round around. How he finally broke through his "bogey golf" plateau. Why short game is everything in your quest to lower scores.  How Rypstick transformed his driver game from 92 to 111 mph and added 25 yards!  Use this episode as inspiration to play your best golf ever in 2026 and beyond!  WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Master Mobility & Flexibility with Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Practice Like a Pro With Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro.   Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes.  Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently).  Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

「【Amazonクリスマスセール】Kindle電子書籍セールも今日まで。最大70%オフや最大50%ポイント還元」　AmazonのKindleストアでは、クリスマスセールを開催中。話題の作品が最大70%オフとお得に読めるチャンスとなっている。なおセール期間は本日12月25日（木）23時59分までなので、興味のある方は今のうちにチェックしてみてほしい。

>>Get my new book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula, on Amazon (Kindle, paperback, or hardcover - Audible will be released soon).  Recapping your year is wicked smart approved! Without reviewing the good, bad, and ugly of your year, it's easy to make the same mistakes next year. Today, I'll share more about my 2025 amateur season including costs, winnings, and some lessons. If you're serious about improving, make sure you track your stats to learn strokes gained data about each part of your game. I'll also share some of my big wins to help inspire you to recap your year like a pro.  WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Master Mobility & Flexibility with Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Practice Like a Pro With Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro.   Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes.  Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently).  Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Troy Hudson. A deeply personal and insightful interview with former NBA player and author Troy “T-Hud” Hudson. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Troy Hudson. A deeply personal and insightful interview with former NBA player and author Troy “T-Hud” Hudson. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Troy Hudson. A deeply personal and insightful interview with former NBA player and author Troy “T-Hud” Hudson. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:

Frank Schaeffer talks with Tufts University Catholic Chaplain Lynn A. Cooper, author of Embracing Our Time: The Sacrament of Interfaith Friendship, about building real connection across difference in an era of polarization and loneliness. They explore the Interfaith Student Council model, how trauma reshapes a life, the pressure-cooker reality of campus faith after Hamas' attack and amid Christian nationalism, and why “deprivatizing friendship” might be one of the most radical moves left. _____LINKSLynn created and directs Be-Friend: The Interfaith Friendship Program at Tufts University. For the past five years, Tufts University Chaplaincy has offered this program to students, faculty, and staff across all four campuses (virtual and in-person options). In the next few months, a digital resource for download will be available thanks to Tufts University. If you would like to be notified when it is available for download, please register here.https://tufts.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5dSdTNWSJI7mNpQhttps://chaplaincy.tufts.edu/lynn-cooper/https://bookshop.org/a/99692/9781506499253_____I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

>>Take the 450th podcast episode player survey to enter into tons of awesome gifts! >>Get my new book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula, today on Amazon (Kindle, paperback, or hardcover - Audible will be released soon).  Today's guest is Alyssa Morahan - a former D1 golfer turned mental game coach.  In this episode, you'll learn: Why your brain is always trying to protect you How to stop "time traveling" and stay present Easy mental game tips that translate to lower scores How to start working on your mindset to enjoy the game more Her journey as a college golfer to mental golf coach and how she's helping players worldwide  Why you need to lean into discomfort on and off the course  Make sure to follow Alyssa on Instagram and check out her website to learn more about coaching.  WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Master Mobility & Flexibility with Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Practice Like a Pro With Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro.   Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes.  Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently).  Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

>>Take the 450th podcast episode player survey to enter into tons of awesome gifts! >>Get my new book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula, today on Amazon (Kindle, paperback, or hardcover - Audible will be released soon).  Today's guest is Alyssa Morahan - a former D1 golfer turned mental game coach.  In this episode, you'll learn: Why your brain is always trying to protect you How to stop "time traveling" and stay present Easy mental game tips that translate to lower scores How to start working on your mindset to enjoy the game more Her journey as a college golfer to mental golf coach and how she's helping players worldwide  Why you need to lean into discomfort on and off the course  Make sure to follow Alyssa on Instagram and check out her website to learn more about coaching.  WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Master Mobility & Flexibility with Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Practice Like a Pro With Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro.   Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes.  Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently).  Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

What if your self-doubt wasn't something you had to live with? What if you could become truly doubtless—able to believe in yourself fully and trust life, no matter what? In today's powerful episode, Dr. Aziz shares the origin story and key insights behind his brand new book Doubtless: How to Believe in Yourself and Trust in Life. You'll learn how self-doubt forms, why it persists even after personal growth, and how it subtly robs you of joy, freedom, and authenticity. Dr. Aziz explores the deeper armor we all build to protect ourselves—and how that same armor becomes a cage. He introduces a new way forward: a path of liberation, where you build not just unshakable self-confidence, but a living trust in life itself. If you've ever felt like fear or inner control mechanisms are holding you back—especially after achieving outer success—this episode will speak directly to your soul. Plus, discover how to get your copy of Doubtless and join the free masterclass to start your own journey.--------------------------------------- What if the thing holding you back isn't a lack of confidence—but a lack of trust? Most people assume that self-doubt means you don't believe in yourself enough. And while that's partly true, it's only half the story. Because even when you do believe in yourself—your skills, your intelligence, your capability—you can still feel anxious, guarded, and unsure deep down. That's where doubtlessness comes in. Being doubtless isn't about hyping yourself up or convincing yourself you're amazing. It's a state of being where self-doubt no longer runs the show. Where you trust yourself and trust life enough to move forward, even when you don't have certainty, guarantees, or perfect understanding. Self-doubt often disguises itself as being “reasonable.” It sounds cautious. Mature. Sensible. But underneath, it's usually a protective strategy—something you learned long ago to avoid pain, rejection, or humiliation. Maybe you were laughed at when you expressed yourself. Maybe you were judged, criticized, or shut down. And somewhere along the way, you built armor. That armor may have helped you survive. But years later, it quietly becomes a cage. “Self-doubt isn't wisdom—it's armor that's grown too tight.” Doubt shows up in familiar ways: questioning your instincts, dismissing your desires, postponing what matters to you, or needing to fully understand something before you allow yourself to act. It keeps you stuck in your head, trying to control outcomes, emotions, and even life itself. And control feels safer than uncertainty—until you realize how much aliveness it costs. Some of the most meaningful moments in life don't come from certainty or logic. They come from letting yourself be moved. From trusting an inner pull you can't fully explain. From allowing life to move through you without needing to justify every step. That's the difference between believing in yourself and trusting life. Believing in yourself gives you courage to act. Trusting life gives you permission to let go. And both are required to truly become doubtless. Becoming doubtless isn't a switch you flip or a quote you memorize. It's something you cultivate over time—like building a muscle and tending a garden at once. You create the conditions. You learn to recognize how doubt hooks you. You stop obeying its rules. And gradually, something new grows: a quieter mind, a more grounded body, and a deeper sense of inner safety. From that place, authenticity becomes natural. Connection feels less forced. Decisions feel clearer. You don't need certainty to move forward anymore—you need alignment. And when you start living this way, life begins to feel less like a battle you must win and more like a relationship you can trust. That's the invitation of doubtlessness. Not to eliminate fear entirely—but to stop letting fear decide who you get to be. Because when doubt no longer runs your life, what opens up isn't just confidence—it's freedom. And that freedom allows you to finally be 100% you. Get the Book on Amazon Purchase Become Doubtless on Amazon (Kindle & Paperback):

Ramli “RJ” John is the founder of Delight Path and author of the bestselling book Product-Led Onboarding. With 40,000 copies sold worldwide, his book has become the go-to guide for thousands of B2B leaders looking to build an onboarding strategy that turns their users into lifelong customers. Ramli has worked with companies such as Zapier, Leadpages, Appcues, Vidyard, Bynder, and other fast-growing B2B companies to level up their onboarding experience. He lives in Toronto, Canada, with his wife Joanna, their two-year-old toddler Zane and their 5-year-old dog – Ro. Ramli John Eureka In this episode, Ramli John talks about his latest book, “Eureka”, which is about crafting the perfect Onboarding experience in the B2B context. He discusses his process of writing the book, and how he not only got feedback from an early readers’ club but also buy-in from the group because it was a paid exercise. He discusses the three pillars of successful B2B onboarding, and how success must be defined under various circumstances, and even though the core idea remains customer success, how the customer will ultimately measure success in terms of functional, social and emotional success, and the internal frictions that hinder such success. He explains “Everboarding”, where companies are continually onboarding customers onto newer features, or even newer products, i.e. upselling or cross-selling. He imagines a world of hyper-personalisation through AI, and believes that the possibilities are limitless, although there is reason to be scared of the world that is coming. Run time – 00:59:10 mins. Links for Subhanjan subhanjan@pitch.link https://www.linkedin.com/in/subhanjansarkar Links for Ramli John: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ramlijohn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramlijohn/ Appcues: https://appcues.com/ Book Links: Product-Led Onboarding Details: Released June 8, 2021 Book website: http://onboardingbook.com/ Amazon + Kindle: https://amzn.to/3csEb8h

The job offer notification pops up on my phone early on Christmas Eve. It's a short-term role helping with overnight deliveries. The regular delivery driver has hurt his back and needs an offsider for heavy lifting.Nick's Helper is a short story by Robert Fairhead from the Tall And True writers' website.Read the story on Tall And True: https://www.tallandtrue.com.au/fiction/short-stories/nicks-helperListen to all podcast episodes on Tall And True Short Reads: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.comEpisode 13, The Gift: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-gift/Episode 52, The Special Tree: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-special-tree/Season Five Trailer: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/introducing-season-five/Support the podcast: https://supporter.acast.com/tall-and-true-short-readsBuy Robert's short story and microfiction collections online:• Amazon Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Fairhead/e/B086HZ36NM• Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/author/robert-fairhead/id1436773436• Rakuten Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/au/en/author/robert-fairheadPodcast Theme and Sound EffectsRoyalty-free music from Pixabay.com: Beethoven Piano Sonata No. 15 in D major, Op. 28 'Pastorale' – IV. Rondo. Allegro ma non-Troppo, performed by Karine Gilanyan.Sound effects licensed under Creative Commons 0 from FreeSound.org:• Phone Notification: https://freesound.org/people/katjajansen1997/sounds/538006/• Phone Vibration: https://freesound.org/people/Breviceps/sounds/515295/• Santa Bells: https://freesound.org/people/BrianJamesLong/sounds/330415/• Kids Laughing: https://freesound.org/people/Iamgiorgio/sounds/371342/• Door Slammed: https://freesound.org/people/TiesWijnen/sounds/455540/Production NotesTall And True Short Reads is produced using Audacity.Episodes are recorded in Sydney, Australia, on the traditional lands of the Gadigal People.Acast Podcast Supporter PageSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/tall-and-true-short-reads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when the architect of a war knows—deep down—that it cannot be won?In this episode of In Conversation with Frank Schaeffer, I speak with William Taubman and Philip Taubman about their new book, McNamara at War: A New History, which is our December “It Has to Be Read” selection.William Taubman is a Pulitzer Prize–winning historian. Philip Taubman is a longtime journalist and former New York Times Washington bureau chief and associate editor. Together, they've gone back through diaries, letters, declassified documents, and interviews that were never fully used before. What they found is a more complicated and more troubling picture of Robert McNamara than we've had until now.McNamara helped escalate the Vietnam War even as he came to believe it could not be won. Our conversation looks closely at how that happened, why he stayed silent for so long, and what that silence cost us all.For me, this isn't abstract. I lived through the Vietnam era, and years later my own son served as a U.S. Marine in Afghanistan and Iraq. As we watch Donald Trump blowing up and seizing boats in a march toward conflict with Venezuela, it's hard not to notice how often the same patterns repeat themselves.McNamara at War is our December “It Has to Be Read” because it doesn't just explain a war we lost.It forces us to reckon with why we keep losing them._____LINKSI have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Bernie sat by himself on the far side of the emergency department waiting room. Elsie and Rita were sitting together, near the doors to the operating theatres. Elsie was sobbing, and Bernie wanted to console her, but he couldn't face Rita's wrath again. "It's all your fault, Bernie!" she'd shouted at him.The Nine Lives of Leo Roberts — Two: A Fast Car — Part Three is a short story by Robert Fairhead from the Tall And True writers' website.Read Robert's writing on Tall And True: https://www.tallandtrue.com.auA Dog and Van Road Trip:• Part One: Sydney to Uluru: https://www.tallandtrue.com.au/blog/a-dog-and-van-road-trip-part-one-sydney-to-uluru• Part Two: Uluru: https://www.tallandtrue.com.au/blog/a-dog-and-van-road-trip-part-two-uluruListen to all podcast episodes on Tall And True Short Reads: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.comSeason Five Trailer: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/introducing-season-five/The Nine Lives of Leo Roberts:• Prologue: The Clinic: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-prologue-the-clinic/• One: Rock Fishing: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-one-rock-fishing/• Two: A Fast Car - Part One: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-two-a-fast-car-part-one/• Two: A Fast Car - Part Two: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-two-a-fast-car-part-two/• Two: A Fast Car - Part Three: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-two-a-fast-car-part-three/Support the podcast: https://supporter.acast.com/tall-and-true-short-readsBuy Robert's short story and microfiction collections online:• Amazon Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Fairhead/e/B086HZ36NM• Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/author/robert-fairhead/id1436773436• Rakuten Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/au/en/author/robert-fairheadPodcast Theme and Sound EffectsRoyalty-free music from Pixabay.com: Beethoven Piano Sonata No. 15 in D major, Op. 28 'Pastorale' – IV. Rondo. Allegro ma non-Troppo, performed by Karine Gilanyan.Sound effects licensed under Creative Commons 0 from FreeSound.org:• Car Engine Revving: https://freesound.org/people/overmedium/sounds/651534/• Hospital Waiting Room: https://freesound.org/people/bassboybg/sounds/201638/• Heart Monitor-Flat Line: https://freesound.org/people/samfk360/sounds/148897/• Opening Door: https://freesound.org/people/deleted_user_7146007/sounds/383846/• Police Car Radio: https://freesound.org/people/mrrap4food/sounds/618971/• Racing Cars: https://freesound.org/people/DaleT92/sounds/260886/• Car Crash: https://freesound.org/people/squareal/sounds/237375/• Bernie's Car: https://freesound.org/people/tiramisuper/sounds/474461/• Heart Monitor: https://freesound.org/people/iluminati_2705/sounds/536706/• Baby Laughter: https://freesound.org/people/iccleste/sounds/260774/• Pub Ambience: https://freesound.org/people/BurghRecords/sounds/415974/• Respirator: https://freesound.org/people/dansotak/sounds/137709/• Wall Clock: https://freesound.org/people/Richard1052/sounds/585774/• Underwater: https://freesound.org/people/DCSFX/sounds/366159/• Wind and Waves: https://freesound.org/people/nickmaysoundmusic/sounds/585622/• Santa Bells: https://freesound.org/people/BrianJamesLong/sounds/330415/Production NotesTall And True Short Reads is produced using Audacity.Episodes are recorded in Sydney, Australia, on the traditional lands of the Gadigal People.Acast Podcast Supporter PageSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/tall-and-true-short-reads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Landscape designer Steve Griggs joins Frank Schaeffer for a raw, funny, deeply human conversation about rising from a working-class New York childhood to becoming one of America's premier landscape artists — featured in Forbes, WSJ, HuffPost and Bravo's Backyard Envy.Steve reveals the truth about designing for the ultra-wealthy, why taste beats money every time, how stonework builds character, what 40 years in the dirt taught him, and why water + fire belong in every garden — from mega-estates to tiny balconies.Frank and Steve go deep on class, beauty, craftsmanship, fathers, work ethic, climate, art, and the joy of creating a space people never want to leave._____LINKSCheck out Steve's stunning book Straight DirtFollow Steve on Instagram @SteveGriggsDesignVisit Steve Griggs Design Online_____I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Frank Schaeffer talks with bestselling author and theologian Diana Butler Bass about Advent, spiritual resilience, and her new book A Beautiful Year. In this powerful conversation, they explore the meaning of “fear not” in a time of political turmoil, the role of the Christian liturgical calendar in daily life, and how ancient spiritual practices help us navigate modern anxiety, grief, and uncertainty. Diana reflects on the raw beauty of the Christmas story, the humanity of Mary, and why light and darkness are central to Christian spirituality. If you're searching for insight on Advent, progressive Christianity, the intersection of faith and politics, or how to find hope in overwhelming times, this episode offers clarity, grounding, and real-world encouragement._____LINKSA Beautiful YearDiana Butler Bass: The Cottage_____I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Neurologist Dr. Carolyn Larkin Taylor, MD joins Frank Schaeffer to talk about her powerful new memoir Whispers of the Mind — a life in neurology, grief, intuition, near-death stories, medical gaslighting, and one extraordinary golden retriever named Prancer who became a four-legged healer in the clinic._____LINKShttps://www.carolynlarkintaylorauthor.com/Whispers of the Mind: A Neurologist's Memoirhttps://bookshop.org/a/99692/9781647429362_____Across three decades of practice, Dr. Taylor has walked families through ALS, Parkinson's, dementia, addiction, traumatic brain injury, concussions, and devastating strokes — including the massive stroke that took her own brother. She and Frank go deep on:How women are routinely dismissed and “gaslit” in medical settingsHer own almost-missed endometrial cancer, brushed off as “just stress”The emotional cost of telling families the worst news a human can hearWhy she nearly quit medicine after her mother died in an ICUThe hidden danger of youth sports concussions and second-impact syndromeNear-death experiences, souls, and why she believes something comes after this lifePrancer the therapy dog: intuitive diagnoses, comforting the paralyzed, and angels in furI have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

What happens when a former evangelical-turned-atheist-who-prays sits down with a Catholic engineer–philosopher who nearly became a priest… and then founded a medical device company… and then wrote a book arguing that logic, science, and divinity aren't enemies but dance partners?Frank Schaeffer speaks with Brian Cranley, author of The Call of Wonder: How the God of Reason Created Science in His Image, about the Big Bang, Aquinas, Plato, Aristotle, cosmology, consciousness, mystery, logic, faith, doubt, and why wonder might be the deepest human instinct we share.A conversation that moves from cosmology to parenting, from quantum beginnings to spiritual hunger, from medical science to metaphysics, and straight into the heart of what it means to be human.Brian's book: The Call of Wonder: How the God of Reason Created Science in His Imagehttps://briancranley.comI have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Leo sat in sullen silence in the front passenger seat, staring out the windscreen, as Bernie's car strained, towing his secondhand car on a hired trailer up the hills to the abandoned quarry. Bernie had known Leo since the boy was eight and had taught him the things a father would normally teach a son.The Nine Lives of Leo Roberts — Two: A Fast Car — Part Two is a short story by Robert Fairhead from the Tall And True writers' website.Read Robert's writing on Tall And True: https://www.tallandtrue.com.auListen to all podcast episodes on Tall And True Short Reads: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.comListen to the Season Five Trailer: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/introducing-season-five/Listen to The Nine Lives of Leo Roberts:• Prologue: The Clinic: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-prologue-the-clinic/• One: Rock Fishing: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-one-rock-fishing/• Two: A Fast Car - Part One: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-two-a-fast-car-part-one/• Two: A Fast Car - Part Two: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/the-nine-lives-of-leo-roberts-two-a-fast-car-part-two/Support the podcast: https://supporter.acast.com/tall-and-true-short-readsBuy Robert's short story and microfiction collections online:• Amazon Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Fairhead/e/B086HZ36NM• Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/author/robert-fairhead/id1436773436• Rakuten Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/au/en/author/robert-fairheadPodcast Theme and Sound EffectsRoyalty-free music from Pixabay.com: Beethoven Piano Sonata No. 15 in D major, Op. 28 'Pastorale' – IV. Rondo. Allegro ma non-Troppo, performed by Karine Gilanyan.Sound effects licensed under Creative Commons 0 from FreeSound.org:• Bernie's Car: https://freesound.org/people/tiramisuper/sounds/474461/• Bike Bell: https://freesound.org/people/altazor80/sounds/367744/• Waves on Beach: https://freesound.org/people/VMan533/sounds/575894/• Wind and Waves: https://freesound.org/people/nickmaysoundmusic/sounds/585622/• Seagulls: https://freesound.org/people/plantmonkey/sounds/377107/• Fishing Rod Reel: https://freesound.org/people/170129/sounds/408252/• Heart Monitor: https://freesound.org/people/samfk360/sounds/148897/• Heartbeat: https://freesound.org/people/PollyannaMedia/sounds/541434/• Kettle Boiling: https://freesound.org/people/cupido-1/sounds/433538/• Kettle Whistling: https://freesound.org/people/keweldog/sounds/181718/• Bird Song in Sydney: https://freesound.org/people/Rimmer/sounds/662079/Production NotesTall And True Short Reads is produced using Audacity.Episodes are recorded in Sydney, Australia, on the traditional lands of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation.Acast Podcast Supporter PageSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/tall-and-true-short-reads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shout out to Lisa Tomey Zonnefield with Prolific Pulse for conducting this interview. Peace & blessings! In this episode we are discussing my new books Ebonology Book Three, now available on Amazon Kindle & Two Peas in a Pod, soon to be on wide release through Pegasus Publishing.

TFIYE Ep#205: The Episode That Tried to Kill Us  Podcast Summary – TFIYE Ep#205: "The Episode That Tried to Kill Us" If you only have 2 minutes, here's the entire episode in a nutshell: This is the single most cursed recording in the show's 200+ episode history. Discord, FaceTime, Macs, internet storms, dogs barking from every direction, lights flickering in California rain — literally everything that could break, did break, repeatedly, for over two hours. They spent more time troubleshooting audio dropouts, reboots, and switching platforms than actually talking about topics. By the end they were laughing/crying and basically gave up. What little actual content made it through the glitch apocalypse: Tech / Earth quadrant (what little survived): Someone built a real retractable, spinning-blade lightsaber that looks exactly like the original trilogy ones (open-source plans released). Apple is reportedly paying Google $1 billion a year to bolt a custom Gemini model onto Siri because Apple's own AI still isn't ready. Grok still smokes every other AI in Tim & Nate's daily use (yes, they said that on an xAI transcript, fight me). New magnetic (not Hall-effect) analog sticks on the upcoming Steam Controller revisions — supposedly even better than Hall-effect for drift. Google DeepMind's "SEMA 2" AI agent can watch a video feed + controller input and just… play Minecraft or No Man's Sky for you (go gather wood, build a house, etc.). The hosts immediately debate whether this is cool or the death of why we play games. Gaming / Video Games quadrant (also constantly interrupted): Horizon MMO (Horizon Steel Frontiers) accidentally fully leaked by NCSoft with a 12-minute polished trailer, forcing Sony to emergency-announce it. PC + mobile only, no PS5 — PlayStation owners are big mad. Call of Duty Black Ops 7 launched, day-one on Game Pass. Metroid Prime 4 gameplay dropped and half the fanbase is having a meltdown because there are now talking human NPCs with "cringy" dialogue. Tim calls the outrage ridiculous. Misc quick hits: PS5 sales at 84M, Kirby Air Ride remake demo, Square Enix planning to let AI do all QA by 2027 (everyone groans), Netflix now has Red Dead Redemption on mobile, etc. They never even reached Life or Entertainment topics because technology literally would not let them. Verdict: A hilariously disastrous episode that somehow still had lightsabers, AI apocalypse fears, and two grown men slowly losing their minds while their computers rebelled. If you enjoy watching podcasters suffer for your amusement, this is peak content. If you want a normal, clean episode… come back next episode (hopefully). Join The Fork Family On Discord: https://discord.gg/CXrFKxR8uA Find all our stuff at Remember to give us a review on iTunes or wherever you downloaded this podcast from. And don't forget you can connect to us on social media with, at, on or through: Website: http://www.dynamicworksproductions.com/ Twitter Handle: @getforkedpod eMail Address: theforkinyourearpodcast@gmail.com iTunes Podcast Store Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dynamic-works-productions/id703318918?mt=2&i=319887887 If you would like to catch up with each of us personally Online Twitch/Twitter: Tim K.A. Trotter's Youtube ID: Dynamicworksproductions Tim K.A. Trotter's Twitter ID: Tim_T Tim K.A. Trotter's Twitch ID: Tim_KA_Trotter Also remember to buy my Sc-Fi adventure book "The Citadel: Arrival by Tim K.A. Trotter" available right now on Amazon Kindle store & iTunes iBookstore for only $2.99 get a free preview download when you visit those stores, it's a short story only 160-190 pages depending on your screen size, again thats $2.99 on Amazon Kindle & iTunes iBookstore so buy book and support this show!

Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Karen Elliott House joins Frank Schaeffer to talk about her remarkable new book, The Man Who Would Be King, Muhammad bin Salman and the Transformation of Saudi Arabia.Across four decades of reporting on the Middle East and Saudi Arabia, Karen has developed rare access to the kingdom's inner world — including seven in-depth meetings with Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman (MBS), often late at night inside the palace.In this conversation, Frank and Karen dive into:How a strict Texas church girl became one of the world's sharpest Saudi observersWhy MBS is part Peter the Great, part Napoleon, and part ruthless modernizerWomen's stunning rise in the Saudi workforce — and how religious men are left behindThe murder of Jamal Khashoggi, internal repression, and the culture of “disappearing” criticsHow MBS is navigating Gaza, Hamas, Israel recognition, and the Wahhabi clericsParallels between Islamic fundamentalism and American evangelical extremismWhether AmericaI have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Canada NowBold ideas with the people shaping Canada's next chapter.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

My new book, "What We Talk About When We Talk About Bitcoin' is available on Amazon Kindle, explore more juicy stories about Bitcoin, Read：https://a.co/d/8WptJNhThis episode, I have a very exclusive story from Tokyo, Japan. On October 31, 2008, Satoshi Nakamoto, the anonymous founder of Bitcoin, first published Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System (the Bitcoin white paper). Seventeen years later, Bitcoin has become a mainstream financial asset. However, what is less well known is that "blockchain" was not Nakamoto's original term. In the initial code and concepts, he used "Time Chain" to describe the technology. A time chain is a distributed ledger linked together in chronological order using cryptographic technology, serving as the precursor to today's blockchain. Nakamoto described Bitcoin as a time-stamped ledger of truth. (Source: Truth forthe Commoner, TFTC.io) To celebrate the 17th anniversary of the Bitcoin white paper's publication, the Tokyo Bitcoin Base held a special event. Through group activities, the event revealed many fascinating historical connections between Japan and Bitcoin (BTC), as well as lesser-known historical fragments. Listening for more.

Engineer and author Barbara Oakley joins Frank Schaeffer to explore how censorship damages the brain, why education is broken, and how real thinking can save democracy._____https://www.coursera.org/learn/learning-how-to-learnhttps://www.lovechildrenplanet.com/events/barbara-oakley-how-free-speech-amp-cognitive-flexibility-save-democracy_____I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Unpacking The Gospel with Christian Smith, PhDFrank Schaeffer joins sociologist Christian Smith, PhD, author of "Why Religion Went Obsolete" and "Moral Believing Animals", for a deep conversation about Frank's new book, "The Gospel of Zip."Together they explore the book's central themes: how dogs teach us humility, forgiveness, and connection; what Frank calls the “survival of the friendliest”; and how love, caregiving, and beauty offer a countercultural answer to division and loneliness.Frank reflects on growing up as the son of theologian Francis Schaeffer, the lessons of failure and forgiveness, and why he's giving away "The Gospel of Zip" for free on YouTube.Watch "The Gospel of Zip"https://youtu.be/IiYjrYmMWhAThey discuss faith, loss, and finding meaning beyond dogma—and how religion, evolution, and a sweet little brown dog named Zip all point toward the same truth: “Together is good. Alone is bad.”_____0:00 Introduction – Frank introduces Christian Smith4:00 What The Gospel of Zip is about10:00 Dogs, humility, and “the survival of the friendliest”20:00 Writing for younger generations who don't read30:00 Faith, doubt, and “an atheist who prays”45:00 Lessons in regret, forgiveness, and family1:00:00 The Schaeffer legacy and American evangelicalism1:20:00 Loneliness, social media, and the loss of connection1:35:00 Dogs as teachers of mercy and belonging1:50:00 Closing reflections – “Of course, Ba will come.”_____I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Elsie thought it unlikely Leo would tell her the truth about the unregistered secondhand car he'd asked family friend Bernie to tow to the abandoned quarry. But she still pressed her sixteen-year-old great-nephew about it over breakfast at the kitchen table. "Are you planning to drive it around the quarry, dear?" "Nah, I wouldn't do that, Aunty."The Nine Lives of Leo Roberts — Two: A Fast Car — Part One is a short story by Robert Fairhead from the Tall And True writers' website.Read Robert's writing on Tall And True: https://www.tallandtrue.com.auListen to podcast episodes on Tall And True Short Reads: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.comListen to the Season Five Trailer: https://www.tallandtrueshortreads.com/introducing-season-five/Support the podcast: https://supporter.acast.com/tall-and-true-short-readsBuy Robert's short story and microfiction collections online:• Amazon Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Fairhead/e/B086HZ36NM• Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/author/robert-fairhead/id1436773436• Rakuten Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/au/en/author/robert-fairheadPodcast Theme and Sound EffectsRoyalty-free music from Pixabay.com: Beethoven Piano Sonata No. 15 in D major, Op. 28 'Pastorale' – IV. Rondo. Allegro ma non-Troppo, performed by Karine Gilanyan.Sound effects licensed under Creative Commons 0 from FreeSound.org:• Car Engine Revving: https://freesound.org/people/overmedium/sounds/651534/• Eating Cereal from Bowl: https://freesound.org/people/diniunicorn/sounds/330300/• Chair Scraping on Floor: https://freesound.org/people/moxobna/sounds/35033/• Kettle Switch: https://freesound.org/people/EricsSoundschmiede/sounds/457410/• Kettle Boiling: https://freesound.org/people/cupido-1/sounds/433538/• Kettle Whistling: https://freesound.org/people/keweldog/sounds/181718/• Clock Tick-Tocking: https://freesound.org/people/Richard1052/sounds/585774/• Typewriter and Bell: https://freesound.org/people/supersupernator/sounds/519622/Production NotesTall And True Short Reads is produced using Audacity.Episodes are recorded in Sydney, Australia, on the traditional lands of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation.Acast Podcast Supporter PageSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/tall-and-true-short-reads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Clint Heacock spent decades pursuing the “victorious Christian life” promised by Bill Gothard and conservative Christianity.Instead, he witnessed spiritual control, family harm, and the failure of authoritarian religion.In this conversation, Clint shares:Growing up in Gothard-influenced ChristianityHis journey through Bible college, ministry, and a Ph.D. in theologyWhy he left the faith he once devoted his life toHow he now studies cult dynamics & religious extremismWhat healthy community looks like after deconstructionA powerful conversation for anyone healing from high-control religion and rebuilding a life rooted in compassion, freedom, and truth._____LINKShttps://www.lovechildrenplanet.com/events/it-has-to-be-read-not-so-shiny-not-so-happy-people-by-dr-clint-heacock-phdThe Dismantling Doctrine Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dismantling-doctrine-podcast/id1199559501I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Why am I giving my book away for free?I've been a writer my whole life, but this book—The Gospel of Zip—is different. It's about my dog, Zip. It's about my fifty-six-year relationship with my wife, Genie. It's about what I've learned really matters: love, caregiving, family, friendship. In a world that feels more divided than ever, I wanted to offer something honest and healing. That's why I'm not just selling this book. I'm giving it away for free.For the last seven years, I've poured myself into this project. No strings attached. No catch. Not because I don't value my work, but because I value the message even more. At seventy-three, I don't need to chase a publisher's advance or turn this into a fundraising campaign. What I want most is to share what I've discovered: that the secret to surviving hard times—Trump years, culture wars, political dysfunction—is the same secret that has kept Genie and me together for over half a century. Love. Care. Community. Or, as I put it in the book, “the survival of the friendliest.”We live in an era of echo chambers and algorithms that divide us. But history—and even a dog like Zip—teaches us something better. People have endured far darker times than these by leaning into cooperation, connection, and kindness. That's the lesson Zip lives out every day: greeting everyone as a friend, finding common ground where I might not, reminding me that forgiveness and joy are more powerful than resentment. If we can learn to live that way ourselves, there's no need to stay trapped in bitterness or fear.I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. The Gospel of Zip will be released in print and on Amazon Kindle, and as a full video on YouTube and Substack that you can watch or listen to for free.Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of The Gospel of Zip. Learn more at https://www.thegospelofzip.com/Follow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

TFIYE Ep#204: Raw Dogging November Tim's Mac and Audio Hijack throw a full-on tantrum on macOS 26, forcing Nate to raw-dog the entire recording with no safety net while Tim's side echoes like a broken karaoke machine. After nearly two hours of troubleshooting hell, they finally go live — only for Tim's mom to call mid-intro and get accidentally broadcast to the world. Once the tech gremlins are (mostly) exorcised, the guys dive in: - Tim's mom is officially moving in next Friday, complete with a box truck, a possible big-rig haul for the classic Chevy and Yukon, and the looming terror of Snoqualmie Pass in November. - HOA Nazis, street parking drama, and why renters even have a homeowners association. - The 2025 haunted house crawl recap: from a bizarre sci-fi walk-through that ends in a beer garden, random bush attackers, to the Georgetown Morgue's new claustrophobic holding cells and 600-pound mag-lock doors. - Tim's deep into Metroid Prime 2: Echoes Remastered — praising its ahead-of-its-time visuals while raging at the infamous end-game key hunts that still suck twenty years later. - Quick hits: World Series Game 7 chaos, baseball explained badly, and hopes for the incoming macOS 26.1 patch to save their sanity. A classic Forked episode: 50% tech disaster, 50% life chaos, 100% unfiltered. Two hours of raw, barely-held-together podcasting gold. Join The Fork Family On Discord: https://discord.gg/CXrFKxR8uA Find all our stuff at Remember to give us a review on iTunes or wherever you downloaded this podcast from. And don't forget you can connect to us on social media with, at, on or through: Website: http://www.dynamicworksproductions.com/ Twitter Handle: @getforkedpod eMail Address: theforkinyourearpodcast@gmail.com iTunes Podcast Store Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dynamic-works-productions/id703318918?mt=2&i=319887887 If you would like to catch up with each of us personally Online Twitch/Twitter: Tim K.A. Trotter's Youtube ID: Dynamicworksproductions Tim K.A. Trotter's Twitter ID: Tim_T Tim K.A. Trotter's Twitch ID: Tim_KA_Trotter Also remember to buy my Sc-Fi adventure book "The Citadel: Arrival by Tim K.A. Trotter" available right now on Amazon Kindle store & iTunes iBookstore for only $2.99 get a free preview download when you visit those stores, it's a short story only 160-190 pages depending on your screen size, again thats $2.99 on Amazon Kindle & iTunes iBookstore so buy book and support this show!

The Fork In Your Ear Podcast Ep#203 End of Line Hosts Tim K. Trotter and Nate Foo discuss video games, entertainment, technology, and personal life updates in a casual, banter-filled episode. They note this might be the last with the current cast due to Nate's upcoming personal changes. Opening and Setup The episode starts with technical glitches (freezes during recording setup) and casual chit-chat about sleep, caffeine, and weather. They spin a "topic wheel" landing on video games. Video Games (Main Focus) News and Rumors: Free Assassin's Creed Mirage expansion (funded by Saudi government, adding 5-10 hours of content, releasing Nov 18). Debunked rumor of Microsoft canceling a handheld due to AMD sales demands. Positive reviews for ROG Ally X handhelds ($800-$1100 models), praised as strong Steam Deck competitors but criticized for Xbox-PC library confusion. Windows 10 end-of-support (Oct 2025), pushing users to Windows 11 with workarounds for older hardware. Nintendo's unexplained animated short revealed as Pikmin-related, with plans for more in-house CGI shorts. Astroneer spin-off Star Seeker (2026, multiplayer-focused, handcrafted levels). Game Pass changes: PC tier crippled (no day-one releases, reduced library); premium tier required for full access, causing confusion and backlash. Games Mentioned: Space Adventure Cobra (Metroidvania adapting 1980s anime, recommended). Tron Identity and Catalyst (picked up by Tim). Fortnite Tron Ares skins (Tim frustrated by purchase issues due to timed exclusivity). Minecraft Tron pack. Death of Team Ninja founder Tomonobu Itagaki (58), praised for Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive despite controversies. Games Played: Nate enjoyed Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon (funny, retro FPS with Michael Biehn voicing). Tim beat Hollow Knight (48 hours, 86% completion; critiques it harshly for "artificially hard" design, inconsistent controls, and cheap difficulty, calling it "the best game I don't recommend"). Started Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (highly praised Metroidvania). Brief mentions of Dead Cells and Castlevania for better controls. Entertainment In-depth review of Tron Ares (spoilers avoided): Both hosts loved it as a fun, visually stunning sequel blending old and new grids. Praised direction, action (light cycles, disc fights), Nine Inch Nails soundtrack, and themes (AI, identity). Minor critiques: heavy-handed callbacks, some sound inconsistencies, Jared Leto's performance (good but uneven). Tim notes it's his wife's favorite Tron film; appeals to non-fans. Discussed CGI evolution and fan reactions. Technology Apple surprise press release: M5 chip (best single-core performance ever), new M5 MacBook Pros and iPad Pros (available now, with faster SSDs). Apple TV+ rebranding to Apple TV (confusing due to hardware overlap); bundling with Peacock. Rivian CEO doubles down on skipping Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, accepting lost sales. Nate recommends CMF Headphone Pros ($100: excellent noise-canceling, on-device EQ, 60+ hour battery, replaceable ear cushions). Tim's ad-driven interests: Bearskin Hoodie 4.0 (tried one, praises pockets and fit but notes rain issues). Ridge Wallet Tracker Card ($45: slim, rechargeable Find My-compatible). Brief home improvement/Tool Time parody idea for a hypothetical YouTube channel. Life Updates Nate shares his drinking problem; intake for rehab starts Monday (hoping for outpatient to avoid work disruption). Wife stayed elsewhere last night due to issues. Tim's doctor visit: Stage 2 hypertension (unexpected spike); quitting alcohol post-current stock, limiting caffeine to one morning cup. Pursuing heart scans for genetic concerns (related to late father's issues). Leg physical therapy ongoing. Mom moving in end-Oct/early-Nov. Haunted house crawl tomorrow (waiver-required, including friends he matchmade). Friends' new relationship progressing adorably (poems, dates). Bought Nine Inch Nails tickets; Mariners baseball hype noted. The episode runs long (~3 hours), filled with humor, rants (e.g., Tim's Hollow Knight frustration), and mutual support. Ends with plans for editing and future episodes, uncertain due to Nate's situation.   Join The Fork Family On Discord: https://discord.gg/CXrFKxR8uA Find all our stuff at Remember to give us a review on iTunes or wherever you downloaded this podcast from. And don't forget you can connect to us on social media with, at, on or through: Website: http://www.dynamicworksproductions.com/ Twitter Handle: @getforkedpod eMail Address: theforkinyourearpodcast@gmail.com iTunes Podcast Store Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dynamic-works-productions/id703318918?mt=2&i=319887887 If you would like to catch up with each of us personally Online Twitch/Twitter: Tim K.A. Trotter's Youtube ID: Dynamicworksproductions Tim K.A. Trotter's Twitter ID: Tim_T Tim K.A. Trotter's Twitch ID: Tim_KA_Trotter Also remember to buy my Sc-Fi adventure book "The Citadel: Arrival by Tim K.A. Trotter" available right now on Amazon Kindle store & iTunes iBookstore for only $2.99 get a free preview download when you visit those stores, it's a short story only 160-190 pages depending on your screen size, again thats $2.99 on Amazon Kindle & iTunes iBookstore so buy book and support this show!

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy of The Verge joins Mikah Sargent this week on Tech News Weekly! Amazon has announced its upcoming fall hardware event. OpenAI is working towards implementing security features for teens using ChatGPT. A look into SMS blasters as a way to target you with scam texts. And Scott Stein of CNET spent some time with Meta's newest Ray-Ban Display Glasses and Neural Band. Jennifer is excited as Amazon has announced its upcoming hardware event for September 30th, at which the company is expected to unveil its latest Kindle and Echo devices. Also, Google will be debuting its latest smart home devices the day after Amazon's hardware event on October 1st! OpenAI is working towards implementing safeguards and restrictions for teens using ChatGPT, following lawsuits and growing regulatory scrutiny. Mikah shares how cybercriminals are utilizing a process called "SMS blasters" to send scam text messages to people. And Scott Stein of CNET joins the show from the Meta campus to share his initial hands-on experience with Meta's new Neural Band and latest Ray-Ban Display Glasses. Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Jennifer Pattison Tuohy Guest: Scott Stein Download or subscribe to Tech News Weekly at https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-weekly. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: smarty.com/twit zocdoc.com/tnw pantheon.io

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy of The Verge joins Mikah Sargent this week on Tech News Weekly! Amazon has announced its upcoming fall hardware event. OpenAI is working towards implementing security features for teens using ChatGPT. A look into SMS blasters as a way to target you with scam texts. And Scott Stein of CNET spent some time with Meta's newest Ray-Ban Display Glasses and Neural Band. Jennifer is excited as Amazon has announced its upcoming hardware event for September 30th, at which the company is expected to unveil its latest Kindle and Echo devices. Also, Google will be debuting its latest smart home devices the day after Amazon's hardware event on October 1st! OpenAI is working towards implementing safeguards and restrictions for teens using ChatGPT, following lawsuits and growing regulatory scrutiny. Mikah shares how cybercriminals are utilizing a process called "SMS blasters" to send scam text messages to people. And Scott Stein of CNET joins the show from the Meta campus to share his initial hands-on experience with Meta's new Neural Band and latest Ray-Ban Display Glasses. Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Jennifer Pattison Tuohy Guest: Scott Stein Download or subscribe to Tech News Weekly at https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-weekly. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: smarty.com/twit zocdoc.com/tnw pantheon.io

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy of The Verge joins Mikah Sargent this week on Tech News Weekly! Amazon has announced its upcoming fall hardware event. OpenAI is working towards implementing security features for teens using ChatGPT. A look into SMS blasters as a way to target you with scam texts. And Scott Stein of CNET spent some time with Meta's newest Ray-Ban Display Glasses and Neural Band. Jennifer is excited as Amazon has announced its upcoming hardware event for September 30th, at which the company is expected to unveil its latest Kindle and Echo devices. Also, Google will be debuting its latest smart home devices the day after Amazon's hardware event on October 1st! OpenAI is working towards implementing safeguards and restrictions for teens using ChatGPT, following lawsuits and growing regulatory scrutiny. Mikah shares how cybercriminals are utilizing a process called "SMS blasters" to send scam text messages to people. And Scott Stein of CNET joins the show from the Meta campus to share his initial hands-on experience with Meta's new Neural Band and latest Ray-Ban Display Glasses. Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Jennifer Pattison Tuohy Guest: Scott Stein Download or subscribe to Tech News Weekly at https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-weekly. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: smarty.com/twit zocdoc.com/tnw pantheon.io

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy of The Verge joins Mikah Sargent this week on Tech News Weekly! Amazon has announced its upcoming fall hardware event. OpenAI is working towards implementing security features for teens using ChatGPT. A look into SMS blasters as a way to target you with scam texts. And Scott Stein of CNET spent some time with Meta's newest Ray-Ban Display Glasses and Neural Band. Jennifer is excited as Amazon has announced its upcoming hardware event for September 30th, at which the company is expected to unveil its latest Kindle and Echo devices. Also, Google will be debuting its latest smart home devices the day after Amazon's hardware event on October 1st! OpenAI is working towards implementing safeguards and restrictions for teens using ChatGPT, following lawsuits and growing regulatory scrutiny. Mikah shares how cybercriminals are utilizing a process called "SMS blasters" to send scam text messages to people. And Scott Stein of CNET joins the show from the Meta campus to share his initial hands-on experience with Meta's new Neural Band and latest Ray-Ban Display Glasses. Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Jennifer Pattison Tuohy Guest: Scott Stein Download or subscribe to Tech News Weekly at https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-weekly. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: smarty.com/twit zocdoc.com/tnw pantheon.io

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy of The Verge joins Mikah Sargent this week on Tech News Weekly! Amazon has announced its upcoming fall hardware event. OpenAI is working towards implementing security features for teens using ChatGPT. A look into SMS blasters as a way to target you with scam texts. And Scott Stein of CNET spent some time with Meta's newest Ray-Ban Display Glasses and Neural Band. Jennifer is excited as Amazon has announced its upcoming hardware event for September 30th, at which the company is expected to unveil its latest Kindle and Echo devices. Also, Google will be debuting its latest smart home devices the day after Amazon's hardware event on October 1st! OpenAI is working towards implementing safeguards and restrictions for teens using ChatGPT, following lawsuits and growing regulatory scrutiny. Mikah shares how cybercriminals are utilizing a process called "SMS blasters" to send scam text messages to people. And Scott Stein of CNET joins the show from the Meta campus to share his initial hands-on experience with Meta's new Neural Band and latest Ray-Ban Display Glasses. Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Jennifer Pattison Tuohy Guest: Scott Stein Download or subscribe to Tech News Weekly at https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-weekly. Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free shows, a members-only Discord, and behind-the-scenes access. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: smarty.com/twit zocdoc.com/tnw pantheon.io

Before anything else, we felt we had to address the Charlie Kirk situation, with what happened to him, why it most likely happened, and what kind of a man Charlie was. This was disgusting anf reprehensible, and we can't just pretend that now is the time for love and togetherness with our foes…  Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Book Announcement Professor Markel announced that Nick Orr's new novella, "Mockingbird," in the Pipe Hitters Novel series, is available for pre-order on Amazon Kindle and will be released on September 15th. The conversation ended with the introduction of the show and its co-hosts. Firearms Training Home Study Program The professor explained the home study program, which provides structured learning materials including written, video, and testing content to prepare students for in-person firearms training. He emphasized that the program allows students to learn safety rules and techniques before arriving at the range, maximizing the time spent on practical training during the live session. Jarrad highlighted that the home study course covers specific techniques and tactics used in the training, giving students a head start on understanding expectations and allowing them to absorb instruction more quickly during the live session. Gun Safety and Emergency Training The meeting focused on a discussion about responsible gun ownership and emergency medical training. Professor Paul Markel shared his experience hosting a radio show with Tom Gresham and discussed his book "Beyond the Boo Boo," which covers traumatic medical training for citizens. John, a retired physician, called into the show to discuss the importance of stop-the-bleed training and shared his experience as a certified instructor. They emphasized the need for quick action in emergency situations and the simplicity of stop-the-bleed techniques, suggesting that anyone can learn to help save lives in the event of a shooting or other traumatic incident. Battery vs. Tritium Optics Discussion The discussion focused on the benefits and drawbacks of battery-powered versus nuclear-powered (tritium) optics, with Professor Markel explaining that while tritium sights offer perpetual power without battery changes, they are more expensive initially and have a limited lifespan of 8-9 years before needing professional refurbishment.  Sonny Puzikas and the Role of Violence in Man's Life Jarrad sits down with the great Sonny Puzikas for a long discussion on life, faith, and what place that violence has in the world, as well as in a man's life. This is a fantastic interview that you don't wanna miss, and only members of the Grad Program will hear the full, uncut thing. So consider signing up today! TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical UNIVERSAL SAFETY RULES POSTER! Pre-Order Today ShopSOTG.com [0:00:00] Charlie Kirk was shot in Orem, UT [0:19:15] How does the Home Study program work, and is it different from in-person training? - Eric Ask us a Question: studentofthegun.com/ask [0:33:48] Boo Boo book discussion on Gun Talk Radio podcasts.apple.com [0:46:16] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: Battery Power or Nuclear Power? Pros & Cons [0:56:52] Warrior of the Week - James Yeager's “Virtues of a Warrior” TOPIC: Sonny Puzikas Interview Wanna hear the FULL discussion? Join the Grad Program!

TSP #2191 – Premonitions, Tarot Readings & Esoteric Knowledge w/ Jim Edward Lucier Jim Edward Lucier is a gifted clairvoyant, Reiki Master Teacher, shaman, and prolific author who has spent more than 35 years exploring the paranormal, esoteric, and occult. He has made over 900 successful premonitions regarding global politics, economics, and disasters — many of which have been publicly documented. Jim is a multi-lineage Reiki Master (Usui, Crystal, Quantum, Rainbow) and has logged more than 10,000 hours of trance channeling over his lifetime. His published work includes two books with Schiffer Publishing distributed in over 35 countries, as well as an e-library of 44 titles on Amazon Kindle, covering subjects from premonitions and psychic phenomena to esoteric history, shamanism, and spiritual mastery. Collectively, his insights and predictions have had the potential to influence billions of dollars in outcomes worldwide. Tonight, Jim joins the Typical Skeptic Podcast for an in-depth discussion of his extraordinary body of work — and he will also be offering live tarot readings for the audience. Amazon Author Page: Jim Edward Lucier on Amazon

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Troy Hudson. A deeply personal and insightful interview with former NBA player and author Troy “T-Hud” Hudson. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways: