Podcasts about Barrier

"I've never led a church this size before..." If you are a senior pastor, executive pastor or board member, you're not alone in thinking this. We hear church leaders say it all the time, as they wonder how they're going to break through the next growth barrier. We're continuing our series on breaking common growth barriers, specifically helping church leaders in key seats to own their roles in getting the church over that next hurdle. In this episode, Amy and Sean talk about one of the hardest barriers to break through: the 1000 barrier. If you feel stuck around the 700 or 800 attendance mark and are ready for healthy, sustained growth, this episode is for you.   This Episode is Sponsored by Planning Center: Are you struggling to keep your church organized and connected? Planning Center is the all-in-one church management software that solves your administrative challenges. You can effortlessly track first-time guests, manage volunteer schedules, and create easy ways for your congregation to get involved—all from a single platform. Whether you need a check-in system, event signups, or an online giving solution, Planning Center helps you nurture your community and keep people connected. Visit planningcenter.com to get started for free.   Join the Conversation on Social Media We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X and on Instagram. 

It’s not unusual to find fresh vegetables or handmade goods at farmers’ markets across Wisconsin. But at one small farm in Tomahawk, the sales approach is different. Tranquil Acres Farm invites visitors to pick what they need and pay what they can afford, no questions asked. Heather and Bill Smith are a retired couple who bought the property during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in search of solitude. What began as a quiet retreat quickly turned into something much bigger: a mission to make healthy food accessible to everyone. Heather Smith talked with WPR’s Shereen Siewert.

We often talk about romance, but this week, we're taking a closer look at the quiet epidemic affecting millions: the erosion of deep friendships and emotional openness, especially among men. What happens when someone says “I miss you”... and it feels too risky to say it back? How do cultural norms shape our ability to express care, and how can we start to rebuild emotional intimacy, not just in partnerships, but in friendships too? This week's episode was inspired by a friend of the show, Douglas, whose candid moment with his wife sparked a much bigger conversation about vulnerability, gender norms, and the loneliness many are too afraid to name. This week, a listener shares: “Last night my wife told me she was getting lunch with a friend after getting a text that said ‘I miss you.' I told her it's nice women can say that — but guys can't. She insisted we could. I'm not convinced. What do you think?” What You'll Hear In This Episode: Why men's close friendships have declined dramatically in the last 30 years How emotional repression becomes loneliness, rage, and disconnection Why “guys don't say I miss you” is a cultural myth we need to break The generational shift that teaches boys to shut down emotional expression Three step-by-step scripts to help you reconnect or form new friendships How to create low-pressure connection points that foster deeper bonds Why you don't need permission to reach out,  just a little courage Resources & Links: Unlock the Secret to Successful Dating with our Date Tracker Call or text your question to: 424-246-6255 Follow @damonahoffman on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, and submit questions via DM or voice memo anytime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The LCMS wrestles with real division — often labeled “confessional vs. missional.” But is the deeper tension actually between Barrier Breakers and Distinction Keepers?In this episode, Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller joins Tim and Jack for an honest dialogue about the state of the Synod — and whether conversations like this podcast are helping or hurting. Together they explore:- What drives “barrier breakers” and “distinction keepers”- Why polarization happens inside the church- How confession and absolution can restore unity

In 1967, Kathrine Switzer made history as the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon. But it wasn't without drama — a furious race official tried to drag her off the course in front of photographers. This episode dives into Switzer's groundbreaking run, the earlier efforts of Bobbi Gibb, and the lasting impact they had on women's sports worldwide. Then we play the quiz with Comedian and Storyteller Natasha Samreny. Did you know The Internet Says It's True is now a book? Get it here: https://amzn.to/4miqLNy Review this podcast at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-internet-says-it-s-true/id1530853589 Bonus episodes and content available at http://Patreon.com/MichaelKent For special discounts and links to our sponsors, visit http://theinternetsaysitstrue.com/deals  

This week on NintenDomain, there are a ton of releases in September plus we played Sonic Racing Crossworlds, Trails in the Sky, Golden Tee Arcade Classics, and so much more! Support the show and get bonus episodes at: www.patreon.com/nintendomainpodcast Music: Intro: Forsaken 64: Flame Out Break 1: The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero: Get Over the Barrier! Break 2: The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero: On the Green Road Outro: The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero: Way of Life Topic Times: 00:03:23 Got Item: UFO 50 00:20:40 Sonic Racing Crossworlds 00:29:08 Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter Demo Trails from Zero Golden Tee Arcade Classics Easy Come Easy Golf Exit 8 Switch 2 Edition Jay and Silent Bob's Mall Brawl Arcade Edition 00:49:23 Weekly Nintendo News      

Market and Air Travel Analyst Jay Ratliff explains Southwest's new secondary cockpit barrier to enhance in-flight security, plus the story of a flight attendant who asked a Playboy playmate to ‘cover up' before boarding sparks debate.

In this episode, we dive into the latest infection control updates from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), focusing on the newly expanded Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) for skilled care facilities. These precautions are designed to reduce the transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). We will explore: What EBP entails and how it differs from traditional contact precautions Which residents are affected and why they're considered high-risk Implementation strategies, including PPE use during high-contact care activities like dressing, bathing, and wound care Practical challenges and benefits for facilities, staff, and residents Whether you're a nurse, administrator, or infection preventionist, this episode offers essential insights into how long-term care is evolving to meet the challenges of antimicrobial resistance.

An extensive earthen wall is being built around the besieged Sudanese city of el-Fasher. Researchers from Yale University say it is intended to trap people inside.Why is there a rapidly growing demand for solar panels in Africa?And we meet Iris- the teaching robot in South Africa.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Charles Gitonga in Nairobi, Mark Wilberforce, Yvette Twagiramariya and Sunita Nahar in London. Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Maryam Abdalla, Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Send us a textIn episode #151 we discuss the science behind fermented foods with researcher Dr. Maria Marco:The role of microbes in gut health and their potential benefits for humanity and the planet.Insights into the fermentation process of sauerkraut and its impact on gut barrier function.The difference between probiotics and friendly microbes found in fermented foods like sauerkraut.The potential for fermented foods to offer health benefits beyond just probiotics, focusing on the metabolites produced during fermentation.Dr. Maria Marco is a Professor in the Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of California, Davis. She earned her bachelor's degree at The Pennsylvania State University and PhD in microbiology at the University of California, Berkeley. She performed her postdoctoral research at the Wageningen University and NIZO food research, The Netherlands. Dr. Marco started her lactic acid bacteria and gut health laboratory at the University of California, Davis in 2008 and has built an internationally recognized research program on fermented foods, probiotics, and dietary modulation of the gut microbiome. Dr. Marco is currently President of the International Society of Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) Board of Directors and is a fellow in the American Academy of Microbiology.Connect with Dr. Maria Marco:IG: Eat Lac Project, UC Davis: www.instagram.com/eat.lac.project/Web: /marcolab.ucdavis.edu/Mentioned:Trifecta Nutrition (save 50% your 1st order with code NR50): https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/qnNk05Study discussed on the podcast: The Fermented Cabbage Metabolome and its Protection Against Cytokine-Induced Intestinal Barrier Disruption of Caco-2 Monolayers: journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/aem.02234-24International Scientific Assn. for Probiotics and Prebiotics: isappscience.org/Other studies mentionedA Review of Fermented Milks: Potential Beneficial Effects on Human Nutrition and Health: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11225442/ Lacto-Fermented Sauerkraut Improves Symptoms in IBS Patiences Independent of Product Pasteurisation - A Pilot Study: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30256365/MORE NR New customers save 10% off all products on our website with the code NEWPOD10 If you would like to work with our practitioners, click here: https://nutritional-revolution.com/work-with-us/ Save 50% off your 1st Trifecta Nutrition order with code NR50: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/qnNk05 Save 20% on all supplements at our trusted online source: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/kchannell Join Nutritional Revolution's The Feed Club to get $20 off right away with an additional $20 Feed credit drop every 90 days.: https://thefeed.com/teams/nutritional-revolution If you're interested in sponsoring Nutritional Revolution Podcast, shoot us an email at nutritionalrev@gmail.com.

What if your work isn't just a job—but part of God's bigger story for your life?For some, work is a source of stress, struggle, or simply something to endure. But what if we're seeing it all wrong? What if God designed work to be a vital part of how we worship Him and serve others? Dr. Tom Nelson joins us today to talk about that. Dr. Tom Nelson is the President of Made to Flourish and has served as the Senior Pastor of Christ Community Church, a multi-site congregation across Kansas City, for over 30 years. He is also the author of Why Your Work Matters: How God Uses Our Everyday Vocations to Transform Us, Our Neighbors, and the World.False Narratives About WorkCulture tells us many things about work—most of them untrue.“Thank God it's Friday” reflects the belief that work is a curse and that our real lives happen only on weekends.Work as mere productivity reduces our calling to a paycheck or to-do list.Sacred vs. secular divide suggests ministry work matters more than other vocations.However, if we return to Genesis 1 and 2, we find that work is not a curse. Work is God's good design. Whether paid or unpaid, our work is part of how we glorify Him.The Four-Chapter Story of WorkDr. Tom Nelson uses a “four-chapter” framework to show how the Bible shapes a proper view of work:Creation – What Ought to Be. God designed work as a gift and a reflection of His image. Work and worship were never meant to be separate.The Fall – What Is. Sin corrupted work, introducing toil, frustration, and broken relationships.Redemption – What Can Be. Through Christ, our work can be redeemed. Whether changing diapers, leading a company, or volunteering, we bring God's presence into every environment.New Creation – What Will Be. One day, we will experience work in its perfect form—creative, joyful, and without sin—in God's restored Kingdom.One of the most transformative ideas to remember is that all work done for God's glory is sacred. Work is contribution, not just compensation. We carry God's presence with us into our workplaces because the Holy Spirit dwells within us.This perspective breaks down the artificial barrier between “spiritual” and “secular” work. It gives believers a seamless life of worship—Sunday through Monday.Hope for the FutureWe won't spend eternity sitting on clouds. Revelation offers us a glimpse of a garden city where we will worship Jesus and engage in creative, joyful work—free from sin, frustration, and the need for perfect relationships with God and others.If you've believed that your work doesn't matter, be encouraged that you were created with work in mind. God is with you in your work. When you embrace Jesus and become His apprentice, you'll learn to live a seamless life where every task, big or small, can glorify Him.Dr. Tom Nelson's latest book, Why Your Work Matters: How God Uses Our Everyday Vocations to Transform Us, Our Neighbors, and the World, is available wherever books are sold. To learn more about integrating faith and work, visit MadeToFlourish.org.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'd like advice on how to invest between $30,000 and $60,000 to generate steady monthly or quarterly dividends. My goal is to cover about $150 a month to help with some expenses.I've been on SSDI for about five or six years due to health issues, and I also earn about $1,400 a month from a part-time job. Am I allowed to contribute to an IRA with this income?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Made to FlourishWhy Your Work Matters: How God Uses Our Everyday Vocations to Transform Us, Our Neighbors, and the World by Dr. Tom NelsonCommon Good MagazineBankrate.comWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Summer heat takes a toll on your skin. In this week's podcast, we're talking dryness, irritation, and the breakdown of your lipid barrier. This natural barrier is your shield against environmental stressors, and when it's disrupted, inflammation follows. As the season shifts, it's the perfect time to repair and restore. We'll cover why ceramide-rich moisturizers matter, how hydrating soaks help replenish, and why it's smart to ease up on exfoliation. Plus, we share tips on diet, recovery treatments, and why end-of-summer peels set you up for glowing, resilient skin heading into fall.

Your fundraising strategy is about to become ancient history. This AI breakthrough isn't just a small update; it's a complete revolution that changes everything you know about donor relationships and growing your nonprofit.In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson is joined by fundraising expert and AI pioneer Nathan Chappell to discuss the most profound technology shift in human history. They explore why old methods like focusing on cost per dollar raised are failing and how the shrinking donor pool is forcing a new approach. Nathan explains how any nonprofit can use predictive and generative AI to build a true community, create personalization at scale, and foster generosity. This conversation reveals the simple steps to embrace innovation and curiosity, ensuring your organization thrives in this new era.

Healthcare practice owners often unknowingly create internal barriers that directly impact their bottom line – not from lack of clinical skills or business knowledge, but from deeply embedded beliefs that show up as seemingly logical decisions. Through Dr. Sarah's compelling transformation story, this episode reveals how one practice owner went from working 60+ hour weeks while personally taking patient payments to achieving a 40% revenue increase and reclaiming 20 hours per week, all by dismantling a single invisible barrier.  Key Highlights:  How fear-based overhead decisions actually limit revenue capacity  The true cost of operating from a scarcity mindset disguised as quality control  Why equating personal worth with work hours creates success-limiting bottlenecks  A real case study showing 26x ROI from barrier removal  Three practical assessment questions to identify your own hidden barriers  Memorable Quotes: "Your barriers aren't protecting you; they're imprisoning you. And every day you don't address them, you're leaving money on the table and freedom off your calendar."  "Sarah thought she couldn't afford a $40,000 administrative salary, but her barrier was costing her $400,000 in lost revenue."  "They're like having a Ferrari with the emergency brake on. You've got the engine, the capability, the vision – but you're burning fuel while barely moving forward."  This episode launches a three-part series on building what Tracy calls "Success Architecture" – the mindset foundation that allows practices to scale without sacrificing sanity. Perfect for practice owners ready to stop being the emergency brake in their own success story.  Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.   See Where Your Practice Stands: Take our Practice Growth Readiness Assessment  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

Will we see even lower interest rates? Should you wait for a Fed Rate Cut to lock in an interest rate? Watch LIVE and ask your questions. Get a text message when I go live with a link to join. Text "LIVE" to 844-935-3634. Support the stream: https://streamlabs.com/mortgagemomradio1 Debbie Marcoux is licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, NMLS ID 237926. Also licensed in, AZ-0941504, Fl-LO76508, GA-69178, HI-237926, ID-MLO-2080237926, IL-031.0058339, NV-57237, NC-I-210940, OR, TN-184373, TX, WA-MLO-237926.

Discover how a humble jar of sauerkraut can become one of your gut's strongest allies. In this episode, I share groundbreaking research showing how fermented cabbage protects the gut lining in ways raw vegetables can't—thanks to over 300 powerful compounds created during fermentation. You'll learn why sauerkraut soothes digestion, supports your microbiome, and works best as a whole, living food. Plus, we'll explore an exciting study on kimchi and its role in metabolism and weight support. If you've ever wondered why fermented foods feel so healing, this is the episode for you. Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/sauerkraut-and-your-gut-barrier-natures-fermented-defense/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/sauerkraut-and-your-gut-barrier-natures-fermented-defense/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

Most people think health problems start in the gut — but what if the real first domino falls even further north? In this episode of The Coach Debbie Potts Show, we begin our Barrier Repair series with Part One: The Root Cause Cascade. You'll learn how stress, sleep disruption, toxins, and trauma dysregulate the brain and nervous system, flipping the body into fight-or-flight mode. This subtle shift weakens digestion, shuts down bile flow, and sets off a domino effect:

In today's episode, I want to highlight that treating acne is more than just killing bacteria or drying out oil... What if I told you you cant get clear without a healthy skin barrier? In this episode I explore why barrier health matters in acne clearing, common mistakes, tips, and steps you can start today on your clearing journey. Earn a $75 product credit when you sign up for Pomp Beauty.It's easy to get started... go to pompbeauty.com, create your account, inport your clients, start recommending skincare, earn 30% profit every time. Feel free to mention The Treatment Room as your referral!LINKSGlymed Peptide masqueGlymed Cell balm✨ Let's Connect:Instagram → ⁠@myestytessa⁠ @acnefriendlyfoodSkincare & Acne Tips → ⁠@freeskinbytessa⁠Acne-Safe Recipes → ⁠@acnefriendlyfood⁠

Check out the twitch channel: http://twitch.tv/magicmics Visit our subreddit: http://www.reddit.com/r/magicmics Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/magicmicscast Like us on Facebook: http://facebook.com/magicmics Co-Sponsors: https://www.manatraders.com/ (use code MAGICMICS_VG8)   First Pick   Arena Anthologies: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/mtg-arena/announcements-august-18-2025#Anthologies https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/410942703623208960/1407054838491119686/image.png?ex=68a6afaf&is=68a55e2f&hm=e414a1b624d2412ccbb578f8a1f94b124ff298ea2e782d4d2aea7f9085fed0c0&   Gather the Townsfolk   Less Direct to Modern Sets? https://mtgrocks.com/direct-to-modern-mtg/    Avatar Roundup Beginner Box: https://www.ign.com/articles/avatar-the-last-airbender-magic-the-gathering-beginner-box-card-reveal-spoilers Barrier to Entry: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT69mgJN6/ Better-Than-Official Art: https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/410942703623208960/1406265278064623627/image-2.png?ex=68a67359&is=68a521d9&hm=b5f0782ca0af379981d1552a57efef21350224ea2e6bf4bd8da4f360a78c4b89& Most Cards Previewed This Early: https://bsky.app/profile/castanearie.bsky.social/post/3lwker2bkpc2t   Desperate Ravings   Release Density: https://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/791980596663599104/mark-i-would-like-to-voice-a-grievance-i-and https://bsky.app/profile/rhysticstudies.bsky.social/post/3lwmbxvwia22t https://bsky.app/profile/cardsbyprox.com/post/3lwos2yymb223 https://bsky.app/profile/vorthosjay.bsky.social/post/3lwovt2fbj22k   WotC Squashes “Single Print Run” Rumors: https://bsky.app/profile/tomrmarks.bsky.social/post/3lwp5asqzbs22   Steel City Spectacular https://mtgdecks.net/Commander/steel-city-spectacular-20k-cedh-main-event-tournament-208416   Red Zone   Vivi not getting banned in Standard?   The Finisher   As we noted earlier, MaRo posted this week about pulling back the reins on straight-to-Modern sets, which is perhaps calling to an end a trilogy of sorts. Now, most movie franchises are calling it quits after the third, and we all know the Rule of Three, so tell me: what trilogy are you rooting to conclude next?

Send us a textIn this powerful conversation, Hannah Elmore, Senior Clinical Outreach Coordinator for the IAFF Center of Excellence, reveals the critical role of culturally competent care in supporting firefighter mental health. Drawing from her extensive background in clinical social work and deep immersion in fire service culture, Hannah illuminates the often-overlooked nuances of how mental health challenges uniquely manifest in first responders.The discussion takes us behind the curtain of the IAFF Center of Excellence, a specialized treatment facility created specifically for firefighters seeking help with behavioral health challenges. Unlike traditional hospital settings, this 15-acre facility offers various levels of care in an environment where firefighters can heal among peers who truly understand their experiences. Hannah paints a vivid picture of the Center's approach, from clinical programming to the nightly gatherings around the fire pit—a space intentionally kept free from clinical staff where some of the deepest healing occurs.Perhaps most compelling is the honest examination of barriers that prevent firefighters from seeking help. Hannah addresses head-on the fears about confidentiality and career impact that keep many suffering in silence. "If you're sweeping things under the rug," she cautions, "eventually the rug is going to get a really big mountain that you're going to trip over." This metaphor perfectly captures the cumulative weight of unaddressed trauma and stress.Steve and Hannah also discuss the frustrating reality of therapists who lack the necessary understanding of first responder culture. They share stories of firefighters who've had negative experiences with providers who were overwhelmed by their trauma narratives or misinterpreted symptoms due to cultural ignorance. Their passion for connecting first responders with appropriate, vetted resources shines through as they emphasize their collaborative approach to resource sharing.Whether you're a firefighter struggling with your mental health, a peer support member looking to better assist your colleagues, or a clinician wanting to better serve the first responder community, this episode offers invaluable insights into creating pathways to healing. Ready to learn more about specialized behavioral health support for firefighters? Listen now and discover why cultural competency makes all the difference.Part 2 will be released next week!To learn even more about the IAFF Center of Excellence, go to www.iaffrecoverycenter.comFreed.ai: We'll Do Your SOAP Notes!Freed AI converts conversations into SOAP note.Use code Steve50 for $50 off the 1st month!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showYouTube Channel For The Podcast

Dive  into the challenging topic of isolation during affair recovery. Learn how isolation can show up in your recovery, and gather tools to help you heal from an affair. Anne, Brian, and Tiffanie also explore the dangerous cycle of self-imposed isolation. If you've ever felt like retreating into yourself after betrayal or struggled with how to heal in the midst of isolation, this episode is for you.Yes, you can move beyond the pain and get the life you want.www.beyondaffairs.com 360.306.3367

Pippa Hudson speaks to Dr Sara Andreotti from the Bahamas, where she and her team are testing the first commercial application of the Shark Safe Barrier. This engineered system taps into a shark’s natural instincts to keep them away from humans in the water. Lunch with Pippa Hudson is CapeTalk’s mid-afternoon show. This 2-hour respite from hard news encourages the audience to take the time to explore, taste, read and reflect. The show, presented by former journalist, baker, and water sports enthusiast Pippa Hudson, is unashamedly lifestyle-driven. Popular features include a daily profile interview #OnTheCouch at 1:10 pm. Consumer issues are in the spotlight every Wednesday while the team also unpacks all things related to health, wealth & the environment. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Lunch with Pippa Hudson Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 13:00 and 15:00 (SA Time) to Lunch with Pippa Hudson broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/MdSlWEs or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/fDJWe69 Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Break the maturity barrier and discover lasting happiness in Christ. Rick Hughes explains the two barriers in the Christian life: the salvation barrier Christ removed and the maturity barrier believers must break. Learn the six walls that once separated man from God, the difference between spiritual infancy and maturity, and how daily Bible doctrine under a well-qualified pastor leads to lasting happiness and eternal rewards.Download Transcript:

The fourth and final episode in our series on the Jinshin no Ran: we cover the campaign in Afumi (aka Ōmi - 近江).  Prince Ōama and Prince Ōtomo (aka Kōbun Tennō), have drawn up their forces.  Last episode we covered the fighting in the Nara Basin, around the ancient Yamato capital: Asuka.  This episode focuses on the defense of the Karafu and Fuwa passes and the eventual march to the bridge at Setagawa. This is a name heavy episode, and we'll be noting some of it here: https://sengokudaimyo.com/podcast/episode-132   Rough Transcript Welcome to Sengoku Daimyo's Chronicles of Japan.  My name is Joshua and this is episode 132: The Jinshin no Ran, Part 4: The Afumi Campaign The Afumi soldiers on the western side of the bridge looked across the open expanse of water towards their Yoshino rivals on the eastern side.  If it weren't for the banners and the red tags barely visible on the sleeves of the opposing forces, it would be hard to know which side was which.  Both were equipped in similar ways, and a few of the soldiers could even make out familiar faces on the other side.  That is the nature of civil wars—especially in a conscript society, where the soldiers often had little choice which side they were fighting for.  Not that it necessarily mattered much to them which side came out on top, whatever their commanders might have told them. The bridge across the Seta river was large and wide, and normally quite well traveled.  Now, however, the central boards had been pulled up for a span of about 30 feet or so, leaving a gap spanned by only a single, narrow plank.  That plank was, itself, tied to a rope, which was being held by the Afumi troops.  The soldiers knew that should any of the enemy try to cross, they could pull the plank out from under them and they would fall into the river, their metal armor dragging them down into the dark depths of swirling water below.  Even should they somehow make it across without being peppered by arrows, there would be no reinforcements coming: they would be slaughtered, and the trap would be reset. It seemed like the Afumi forces held all the cards in this battle, and yet they were still tense. Archers could still shoot across the distance. The front rank of troops held wooden shields as a defense, but there were still openings in the formation and the armor, and in the chaos of battle, nobody was truly safe. And so the Afumi forces waited.  Confident, but wary. A commotion on the eastern side of the bridge grabbed the spotlight.  The Yoshino forces had approached, and they were clearly preparing for something.  The Afumi soldiers strained to see what was going on.  Suddenly, the front line of the Yoshino forces parted, and a strange sight confronted the Afumi soldiers.  It took them a moment to fully comprehend what was barreling towards them at full tilt: a soldier that looked almost like two soldiers put together, wearing armor placed over armor, in an attempt to protect from harm.  It must have been heavy, and as he stepped on the beam, it visibly buckled under the weight.  The Afumi archers let loose with their arrows and crossbow bolts, but to no avail.  They simply stuck in the armor, adding to the bizarre and otherworldly appearance of their opponent. The spell was broken on the Afumi side as arrows came cascading in.  The Yoshino forces weren't just sitting idly back, they were making sure they were doing everything they could to keep the Afumi forces distracted.  And for a split second it worked—and a split second was all they needed.  Before the soldiers could gather up their wits about them enough to pull the rope there was a terrifying sound of metal on wood.  The Afumi soldiers pulled the rope, but it came all too easy—the Yoshino soldier had dashed across and cut the rope tied to the plank.  Behind him, the Yoshino forces were now pouring across the bridge.  Soon they would establish a foothold, and behind the front line they would be able to have other soldiers place more planks so that the number of Yoshino soldiers on the Western side of the bridge only continued to increase. Realizing that their trap had been circumvented, the Afumi forces fell back, but their strategic withdrawal soon turned into a full on retreat.  While pockets of soldiers resisted, many were suddenly all too aware that perhaps it was better to live and fight another day, instead.  Despite threats and even attacks from their own commanders, the Afumi forces fled the battlefield, leaving the Yoshino army victorious.  With the Seta bridge now secured, there were no more major obstacles in their way:  They would march to the capital at Ohotsu and finish this war.   Welcome back!  This is Part 4, and so if you haven't already done so, I recommend going back and starting with Part 1.  That said, we'll briefly recap here. Over the past three episodes, we've talked about the causes of the war between Prince Ohotomo and Prince Ohoama as they vied for the throne.  Prince Ohotomo seemingly had the stronger position, as he was actually running the Yamato state from the Afumi capital in Ohotsu.  He had the various ministers and all the official organs of the state on his side.   He was also 23 years old. Ohoama, on the other side, was Ohotomo's paternal uncle.  His own son, Prince Takechi, was 19 years old and helping to lead the army.   Upon learning that the State was gathering forces against him, Ohoama had quickly moved east, gathering forces as he went, and now he stood near Fuwa, modern day Sekigahara, prepared to begin his march on the capital.   This episode we are going to cover the conclusion of the war.  Warning, though, this is going to be a *lot*.  A lot of place names and people names.  Apologies if it is hard to follow.  I'll have a rough map and info on the various players on the podcast blog, so you may want to bring that up if you are having problems following. In Part I of this series we covered the causes leading up to the conflict.  In Part II we covered Ohoama's mad dash to Fuwa, at modern Sekigahara.  Last episode, Part III we covered the fighting in the Nara Basin. This episode we are going to talk about the last two fronts of the war: the defense of the Iga area and Kurafu Pass, and the march from Fuwa to the Afumi capital of Ohotsu. Before we go into the details of the next battles, let's look at what each side of the conflict was doing, what they are concerned about, and where they are on the board.  We'll then go into how the rest of the war played out, and its conclusion and aftermath.     Ohoama's Yoshino forces had largely been drawn from the countries in the east—the very same countries that Ohoama was denying to the Afumi court.  In response, the Afumi court had drawn their forces from where they could.  There were those that they had already called up under the pretense of building Naka no Oe's burial mound, but they had sent others out to raise troops in Yamato and out the western side of Honshu, all the way to Tsukushi—modern Kyushu.  However, not everyone in the Western region of the archipelago was friendly to the Afumi court—especially the regions of Kibi and Tsukushi.  This was significant.  Kibi was an ancient rival of Yamato, and likely could contribute a sizeable force.  Tsukushi, on the other hand, was quite large, and besides the conscripts from among the regular inhabitants, Tsukushi also was in charge of defending the archipelago from invasion—they were the first line of defense.  They had constructed numerous castles and fortifications to defend against a possible invasion, and those castles and fortifications were no doubt manned by troops that had been raised for that purpose.  If they could now be turned inwards, that could be enough to really turn the tide against Ohoama and his Yoshino army. The only problem was that neither Kibi nor Tsukushi were exactly sympathetic to the Afumi court.  The governor of Kibi and Prince Kurikuma, the viceroy of Tsukushi, both had ties to Ohoama, and the ministers suspected them of sympathizing with their Yoshino rivals.  As such the envoys that were sent out were authorized to take whatever drastic steps they felt necessary to secure the troops. So how did that all go down?  Well, last episode we talked about how Hodzumi no Momotari and his crew had been stopped from raising troops in Asuka by Ohotomo no Fukei, whose bluff of pretending to be Prince Takechi and a host of cavalry soldiers caused the conscripted troops to flee, and ended up in the death of Momotari and the capture of his compatriots. In Kibi, things took a turn in Afumi's favor.  When the Afumi government's envoy arrived at the government center in Kibi, he tricked the governor into taking off his sword.  Once he had done so, the envoy drew his own sword and killed the governor.  Without the governor to get in his way, the envoy then went about securing the land and troops for the Afumi court. Prince Kurikuma, the viceroy in Tsukushi, at the Dazaifu, was not quite so easily fooled, however.  Kurikuma knew how the court operated, and was apparently well informed of what was going on.  When the Afumi court's envoy met with Kurikuma, the Prince was flanked by two of his sons, Prince Mino and Prince Takebe, each one armed.  When Prince Kurikuma heard what the Afumi court wanted—for him to send the troops from Tsukushi to help quell Ohoama's rebellion—Kurikuma responded that he needed those troops to hold the border.  After all, the Tang dynasty was still a potential threat, and what good would it do to send the troops from the border regions to fight an internal war, only to then have an invader come in and destroy the state entirely?  No, he reasoned, he would not be sending the troops as the Afumi court requested. We are told that for a moment, the Afumi envoy thought about grabbing his sword and killing Prince Kurikuma, as the Afumi court had suggested, but with both of Kurikuma's sons armed on either side of him, he realized that he didn't have great odds, and so he eventually left, empty handed, but alive. This is significant.  While we don't know exact numbers, it is likely that there were quite a few troops stationed in Kyushu and the islands, all in case of foreign invasion.  By not supplying them to the Afumi court, Prince Kurikuma dealt a huge blow to the Afumi's ability to make war.  Add to that the fact that Ohoama had likewise blocked the court's access to the eastern countries, and that further narrowed the troops that Afumi had access to.  Nonetheless, they still had enough to be dangerous, and it is impossible to say exactly what might happen in a war. So we know where the Afumi and Yoshino forces ostensibly came from, but let's talk about the battlefield.  All of the fighting that we talk about was happening in an area between Naniwa—modern Ohosaka—and Fuwa, modern Sekigahara, northwest from the modern city of Nagoya. There are three main theaters we are talking about.  The first is in the Nara basin, which we talked about extensively in the last episode.  The Nara basin itself was not necessarily of the most strategic importance, militarily, but it was of huge symbolic importance.  After all, that was still the ancient capital, even though the governmental functions had been moved north, to Ohotsu, on the shores of Lake Biwa.  The second is in the Suzuka mountains.  This includes the areas of Iga and Kouka, and it is bordered by the Nara basin on the west, the Mie coastline on the east, and Afumi, the area around lake Biwa, to the north.  This is the same region that Ohoama had to naviagate through on his way from Yoshino to the east, and the mountains and valleys make it so that there are only so many traversable routes through.  For our narrative we are going to be primarily talking about the Kurafu Pass, between Kouka and Iga, at modern Tsuge city.  This pass  was an important route between Kouka, Iga, and Mie.  The road followed the Soma River which eventually flowed into Lake Biwa.  This made it a route out of Afumi, and if the Afumi forces could secure the Kurafu pass and the fields of Tara, just on the other side, they could split Ohoama's forces and cut off any help that he could possibly send to the Nara basin, and possibly even take Ohoama from behind. Finally, let's talk about our third theater:  Afumi itself.  Specifically, we are looking at the southern and eastern sides around Lake Biwa.  Biwa is the largest lake in Japan, and it is almost entirely surrounded by mountains except for where the Seta river flows south, eventually winding its way to Naniwa.  Today, the area of Afumi is largely co-located with modern Shiga Prefecture. Back in 668, after finding themselves on the losing side of the Baekje-Tang war, Naka no Oe, aka Tenji Tennou, had moved the capital to Ohotsu, or Big Port, in Afumi, on the shores of Lake Biwa, likely for the protection it gave.  From Afumi, there were three major routes out of the basin, and a few minor ones.  All of them were through defensible mountain passes, like Karafu Pass, Fuwa Pass, and Suzuka Pass.  Three such passes:  Fuwa, Suzuka, and Arachi would become prominent barriers, or seki, along the ancient roads, and were known as the Sangen, or Three Barriers, protecting the capital region.  Suzuka no seki, at the pass of the same name, was in the south.  To reach it from Afumi, one crossed the Karafu pass, and then turned east through a pass near Mt. Miyama.  At the northern tip of the Suzuka mountains was Fuwa pass, future home of the Fuwa barrier.  The Barrier, or “Seki” would give its name to the area in another form:  Sekigahara.  This was along the Tousandou, the Eastern Mountain road, and even today it is the path through which roads and even the Shinkansen traverse between eastern and western Honshu.  Finally, though less important to our story, was the Arachi pass. Arachi no seki was part of the Hokurikudo, the Northern Land Route, and led to the ancient country of Kochi and the port of Tsuruga, which had a long history as an alternate port, especially for ships sailing from Goguryeo.  Later, Arachi no seki would be replaced in the Sangen ranking by another pass between Afumi and modern Kyoto, which would be known as the Afusaka, or Ohosaka, Pass.  This was the pass that would have been used to get to Yamashiro and, from there, to Naniwa and the Nara Basin. These three passes would come to define the island of Honshu, and became the dividing line between the Kanto region, in the east, and the Kansai region, in the west.  By holding the Suzuka and Fuwa passes, Ohoama effectively denied any travel to the eastern regions.  Sure, Afumi could have tried going through the Arachi pass and into Kochi, but then they would have had to traverse the Japan alps—no small feat, especially without modern conveniences like the trains and busses used today. From Fuwa Pass, where Ohoama and Prince Takechi had set up their headquarters, it was largely a straight shot to the Afumi capital of Ohotsu.  Between Lake Biwa and the Suzuka mountains is a wide, flat plain, divided primarily by the rivers and streams running out from the mountains into the lake.  Immediately west of Fuwa is the area of Maibara.  Following the shore of the lake one traverses through modern Hikone, to Yasu.  Yasu would also have been the location where the road to the Karafu pass broke off into the Suzuka mountains.  Beyond that was the bridge across the Seta River. The Seta river was one of the largest obstacles that would have to be negotiated, and the Afumi forces knew this.  Just as Ohoama would set up at Fuwa pass, a large number of the Afumi forces were set up on the western bank of the Seta river.  If the Yoshino forces could get across, however, it would mean that they had a more or less unimpeded route to the capital at Ohotsu. So now let's talk about what was happening in each of these places. Ohoama had set up at Fuwa—Sekigahara—and had begun to call soldiers to him.  Not only did did this allow him to block the rival Afumi troops from accessing the Eastern countries and possibly raising troops to use against him, but he was also able to maintain a line of communication with ancient Yamato, in the Nara Basin.  In order to keep his communication lines open, and to ensure that the Afumi forces couldn't sneak up behind him, Ohoama split his forces in two.  He knew that Afumi forces were trying to take his stronghold in Yamato, and if successful, from there they could move in to Uda and on to Iga.  thereafter that, they could march up behind him through the Suzuka pass.  Alternatively, the forces in Afumi could come up through Kouka and the Karafu pass, and then try to divide and conquer So the first group of Ohoama's army were to go south, through the Suzuka pass into their mountain namesake.  Once there, Oho no Omi no Honji was to hold Tarano, the Plain of Tara, where the routes to Suzuka, Kafuka, and Iga met.  Tanaka no Omi no Tarumaro went with him, with orders to guard the Kurafu pass, which is to say the road to Kouka.  This first group was headed by Ki no Omi no Abemaro, and also included Miwa no Kimi no Kobito, and Okizome no Muraji no Usagi.  Along with what we are told were tens of thousands of men, this first made their way south from Fuwa  through Mie and Ise and over the Suzuka pass.  Once there, they took up their positions at Karafu and Tarano.  It was a good thing, too, because only a couple of days after they arrived, the enemy struck.   Now as soon as he got there, Oho no Honji had fortified Tarano with some three thousand men, and Tanaka no  Tarumaro was sent to guard the Kurafu pass.  Prior to this, Tarumaro had been the official in charge of the Hot Springs in Ise, but he had joined Ohoama and the Yoshino forces when they first arrived over the Suzuka Pass.  Now he was in charge of a military force, encamped along the road through the Kurafu pass, waiting for the enemy. Unbeknownst to him, a deputy commander of the Afumi forces, Tanabe no Wosumi, was approaching from Mt. Kafuka.  Presumably he'd been sent out from Ohotsu and had followed the road along the Yasu and Soma rivers towards the pass.  Wosumi had  sizeable force with him, but he was not looking for a direct assault.  Even if he would win, he would suffer casualties, especially trying to attack an entrenched enemy in a fortified position.  He needed to be sneaky.  He had no way of knowing that, centuries later, the lands of Iga and Kouka would be known for their sneaky warriors—their legendary ninja—but I digressed.  What Wosumi did was this.  First, he rolled up his banners and muffled the drums.  He even had his men gag themselves—a continental custom where soldiers were given a stick to hold in their mouth, like a horse's bit, to discourage any talking amongst the ranks as they approached.  Presumably, they kept them in until just before attacking, because they also devised a watchword “kane”—transcribed as metal or gold.  Wosumi knew that it would be hard enough to tell who was who in the daytime—after all, it wasn't like these were regimented forces with uniforms.  The soldiers were likely all wearing whatever they had available, and clothing and armor would have been similar across the two armies.  At night, even some kind of mark or flag would hardly be enough to tell who was who in the dark.  As lines broke and melee ensued, it would be easy to get turned around, and find yourself facing a friend.  By saying the watchword you could distinguish friend from foe. Sure enough, this tactic worked.  The Afumi forces broke through the Yoshino fortifications in the middle of the night and swarmed into the encampment.  Men who had been asleep were waking up to chaos.  Tarumaro's Yoshino soldiers were thrown into confusion.  Tarumaro himself, escaped, but just barely.  we are told that he noticed that the enemy kept shouting the word “kane”, and so he started doing it as well. The Afumi forces, assuming he was one of their own, left him alone.  Still, he only escaped with difficulty. His escape was no doubt critical, however.   He presumably would have headed to Tarano to try and warn Oho no Honji, but this may not have been possible, as we are told that on the following day, after the attack at Karafu pass, the Afumi commander Wosumi continued his advance, and came upon the Yoshino encampment at Tarano unexpectedly.  Still, General Honji did not back down.  With a force of hand-picked soldiers, Honji counterattacked against Wosumi and struck him.  We are told that Wosumi made it out—the only one who did—but that he did not try and make another attack.  The Yoshino forces would ultimately hold the pass and the critical juncture of Tarano.  The Afumi forces would not get a second chance. By the way, a quick note here:  I can't help but notice a bit of a trope showing up in these stories:  At Narayama, General Fukei is defeated, and is the only person who makes his escape.  Then Tarumaro is the only person to escape his defeat.  Finally, Wosumi is the only one of his forces to leave the plain of Tara. I am more than a little incredulous that these generals are the only ones who actually survived, and that the rest of the army was slaughtered.  In fact, you may recall that at the battle at Taima, General Fukei told his men not to pursue the fleeing common soldiers.  As I've tried to point out, the common soldiers were not likely as invested in the cause.  In fact, it is just as possible that the common soldiers may have changed sides and joined the other army if they thought it would serve them well.  Or maybe they were escaping and just blending into the countryside.  After all, the elites weren't really spending the time to get to know them, let along record any details about them.  So I suspect that it was more about the fact that the various armies would be broken, and the soldiers flung to the four corners, rather than that they were necessarily slaughtered.  After all, if you had the choice, would you have stayed there? A few days after Wosumi was defeated, the Yoshino general that Ohoama had sent to Iga along with Honji and Tarumaro, Ki no Omi no Abemaro, heard that their ally, Ohotomo no Fukei was in trouble in the Nara Basin.  He'd been defeated by the Afumi general Ohono no Hatayasu at Narayama,  and without reinforcements, the entire Nara Basin could fall, along with the ancient Yamato capital at Asuka. So Abemaro sent Okizome no Muraji no Usagi with more than a thousand cavalry to go assist.  They met Fukei at Sumizaka, and suddenly, things were looking up in the Nara Basin.  For more on how that turned out, check out last episode, where we covered the events in the Nara Basin. Once the events in the Nara Basin settled out, then both the Nara Basin and the Karafu pass would be well and truly in the hands of the Yoshino forces.  But there was no way for those guarding those locations to know that the fighting was over, and they would have to hold their positions until the fighting had definitively stopped.  Which brings us back to Ohoama and the Yoshino troops gathered at Fuwa, where things were about to kick off as well.  The troops at Fuwa, while being led by Ohoama and his 19 year old son, Takechi, were placed under the command of Murakuni no Muraji no Woyori—who, , as things progressed, would be noted as the primary general for the campaign that would lead Yoshino troops from Fuwa, on the offensive towards Ohotsu. The only reason that they seem to have waited before going on the offensive was that every day, more troops were coming in.  So even as the fighting was going on in Nara and at the Karafu pass, the Yoshino army at Fuwa gathered men and made their preparations.  As they did so, the Afumi court Was going to do whatever they could to try and break them, hoping that they could stop the threat posed by Ohoama and his men before they began their march. For the Afumi forces first attempt to break the Yoshino defenses at Fuwa pass, they picked troops to try and make an incursion into the village of Tamakurabe, which appears to have been in the pass itself; it was probably modern Tama district of Sekigahara.  They were repelled, however, by Izumo no Omi no Koma, who drove them off. Later, the Afumi court ordered another force of several tens of thousands of men to attack under the command of Prince Yamabe no Ou, Soga no Omi no Hatayasu, and Kose no Omi no Hito.  Soga no Hatayasu and Kose no Hito were both part of the inner circle of the Afumi court, or so it would seem.  When Prince Ohotomo had taken the reins of the government in a ceremony in the Western Hall of the Palace, he was attended by the ministers of the right and left, as well as Soga no Hatayasu, Kose no Hito, and Ki no Ushi.  They were at the very heart of this whole matter.  Prince Yamabe is a little bit more of a mystery.  We know he was someone of note, and when Prince Ohotsu was brought to his parents, they were apparently traveling under the guise of Prince Yamabe and another prince, Prince Ishikawa.  But we know little else. The three men and their Afumi troops headed out and camped on the bank of the Inukami river, near modern Hikone.  There, however, trouble broke out. The Nihon Shoki does not record exactly what it was, but there must have been some kind of falling out.  Prince Yamabe no Ou was killed by Soga no Hatayasu and Kose no Hito.  We don't know if this was due to some quarrel or what, but either way, it threw the army into a state of disarray and there was no way for them to move forward.  Soga no Hatayasu appears to have taken responsibility for whatever happened, as he headed back from Inukami, presumably back to Ohotsu, where he took his own life by stabbing himself in the throat.  There would be no attack on Fuwa Pass, however. Finally, the Nihon Shoki also recounts the story of another Afumi general, named Hata no Kimi no Yakuni, and his son, Ushi.  Together with others, who remain unnamed, they surrendered themselves to Ohoama and the Yoshino forces, rather than fighting.  It isn't clear if they were deserters, if they had been part of one of the other two attempts to take Fuwa Pass, or if there was something else going on.  Either way, Ohoama was so pleased that he welcomed them in and we are told that Hata no Yakuni was “granted a battle axe and halberd” and appointed a general.  This is probably stock phrasing, but it does seem he was given some measure of trust.  Yakuni's men were then sent north, to Koshi. We aren't quite sure what those forces' ultimate objective was.  It may have been that he was to take the northern pass and make sure that none of the Afumi troops tried to escape and head to the East along that road.  Many of the accounts of this war seem to suggest that he, or at least some part of the forces, were to head north and then come around Lake Biwa the long way.  This would mean that if Ohoama attacked, there would be no easy way to flee.  From Ohotsu they couldn't turn north without running into more troops, and their only escape would seem to be through the Afusaka pass towards the area of modern Kyoto.  And of course, whoever was victorious in the Nara Basin would then be able to control the route to the coast. It is unclear how much Ohoama could have actually known, though, about what was happening across the various distances.  Messages would have meant riders on swift horses carrying them; they couldn't just text each other what was going on. And so, with one attack repelled, another aborted, and a turncoat now on their side, Ohoama's Yoshino forces were finally ready to head out on the offensive themselves.  According to the Nihon Shoki this was on the 7th day of the 7th month—Tanabata, today, but I doubt people were paying much mind to the Weaver and the Cowherd.  Murakuni no Woyori, with the group advancing from Fuwa to Afumi, set out, and met with their first resistance at the Yokugawa river in Okinaga.  As far as I can tell, this is likely the Amano River in modern Maibara, which anyone who takes the Shinkansen between Kanto and Kansai probably recognizes as one of the usual stops.  Once again, we have a situation where, while they would have had banners flying, in the crush of battle it could be quite easy to mistake friend for foe, especially with large numbers of troops who were pulled from vastly different regions.  You had to have some way of knowing quickly who was on your side – that's why the Afumi commander Wosumi had his troops use the password “kane”, for example.  Ohoama's approach was to have his men place a red mark—possibly a ribbon or similar—on their clothing so that one could tell who, at a glance, was on their side.  As a note, later samurai would sometimes attach flags to their shoulder armor, or sode, and these “sode-jirushi” would help identify you even if people didn't recognize your armor.  Ohoama's troops may have used something similar. And so Woyori's Yoshino forces attacked the Afumi defenders, and the Afumi troops were clearly outmatched.  Woyori's men killed the Afumi commander and defeated the opposing forces. But that was just the beginning.  Afumi forces had been stationed all along the route from Fuwa to Ohotsu.  Thus it was that only two days later Woyori and his men made it to Mt. Tokoyama, probably in Hikone, by the Seri river.  There they met more Afumi soldiers, but once again they were triumphant and slew the opposing commander.   Woyori and his men were on a roll. I would point out that these battles aren't given much detail, but we do see how it progressed.  There are names of various individuals and commanders—certainly not much on the common people.  From what we can tell, this was not a rush to Ohotsu, but rather a slow march, probably doing their best to fortify their positions and make sure that nobody was sneaking up on them.  After each battle, it is some days before the next, probably spent spying out ahead and formulating plans. Woyori and his men next fought a battle on the banks of the Yasukawa River, presumably near modern Yasu city.  Here, Aston's translation claims that he suffered a great defeat, but more likely I suspect it means to say that he inflicted a great defeat on the Afumi forces, because if he had been defeated, how would he have pressed on only a few days later.  We are told that  two men, presumably the Afumi commanders, were both taken prisoner. Since we don't have anything more about them in the narrative all we can really do is assume that they must have therefore been on the side of the Afumi forces. By taking Yasu, that would have likely cut off the Afumi forces from any future considerations about using the Kurafu Pass.  The noose around Ohotsu was slowly tightening. Four days after that, on the 17th day of the 7th month, Woyori attacked and repulsed the Kurimoto army—presumably a force loyal to the Afumi court under a general named Kurimoto, or possibly raised from a place called Kurimoto, perhaps over on Awaji.  Either way, it was another victory on Woyori's belt. From there, Woyori and his men arrived at Seta, where they would have to cross the Setagawa—the Seta River. The Seta River is a wide river, and the only one flowing out of Lake Biwa.  It winds its way south and west, eventually becoming the Uji and then the Yodo rivers, which flow all the way to Naniwa—modern Ohosaka.  At the Seta river, there was a major bridge, the only way across, other than to swim.  Prince Ohotomo and his ministers, along with their entire army, were encamped on the west side of the bridge.  Their forces were so numerous that it was said you could not see all the way to the back of them.  Their banners covered the plain, and the dust of their movement caused a cloud to rise into the sky.  Their drums and songs could be heard for miles around.  We are told they even had crossbows, and when they were discharged the arrows fell like rain.  Of course, some of this may have just been more poetic license by the authors of the Nihon Shoki, but you get the picture:  There were a lot of troops on the western side of the river. The bridge itself was defended by General Chison.  We know very little of this general, as he only appears in this one part of the record, but his name implies that he may have been from the continent.  We aren't given a surname, and it is possible he was one of the Baekje refugees, now fighting for the Afumi court.  He led an advance body of specially selected troops, and in the middle of the bridge they had removed planks for about three rods or thirty feet.  Across that span was a single plank, daring anyone to try and cross it.  Of course, if they did, they would be a sitting duck in front of the enemy archers, and the plank was attached by a rope so that it could always be pulled out from under them.  It seemed as if it were impossible to advance. Finally, one of Woyori's soldiers, Ohokida no Kimi no Wakaomi, got up the courage to cross.  We are told that he put on double armor, put down his long spear, and drew his sword.  He then charged suddenly across the plank and cut the rope on the other side before the Afumi troops could pull it back.  In spite of the arrows that were raining down on him, he entered the ranks of the Afumi troops, slashing with his sword as he went.  The Afumi forces were thrown into confusion and some of them tried to leave, but General Chison drew his own sword and began to cut down anyone who tried to flee.  Still, he was unable to check the rout.  Woyori's troops secured the bridge and soon were pouring across it.  They cut down General Chison and advanced into the Afumi army, who broke and ran.  The Afumi sovereign, Ohotomo, aka Koubun Tennou, along with the Ministers of the Left and Right, narrowly escaped with their lives. Woyori and his troops marched to the foot of Awazu hill, and we are told that Hata no Yakuni, the Afumi commander who had earlier defected, and whose men were sent north to Koshi, set a siege to Miwo castle along with Izumo no Koma, who had defended against the attempted seizure of Tamakurabe.  Presumably this is Mio, south of Ohotsu, and it was likely guarding the southern approach to the Afumi capital. The only thing here that gives me pause is that we were earlier told that Yakuni's men, after he defected, were sent to Koshi.  So was Yakuni not with them?  Had he returned?  Or had the troops made it all the way around Lake Biwa already, taking the longer route up and around the lake? Regardless of how it happened, Yakuni and Koma were able to take Miwo castle.  As a reminder, a “castle” at this time would have likely been defined more by its walls, which were probably rammed earth and wood—not the elegantly sloping stone walls and  donjon base that would come to typify castles of the Warring States period. The following day, Woyori and his men continued their pursuit.  At the Awazu marketplace, Woyori ran into the Afumi generals Inukahi no Muraji no Isokimi and Hasama no Atahe no Shihote.  We mentioned Isokimi last episode—he was the Afumi commander attacking the Middle Road in the Nara Basin.  His deputy, Kujira, had been defeated, and it seems Isokimi had retreated back to Afumi and rejoined the main force. He would not be quite so fortunate this time.  Isokimi and Shihote were both slain, and Ohotomo fled once again.  He didn't get very far, hiding at Yamazaki, thought to be near the site of the modern city hall, in Ohotsu. Despite his best efforts, he knew he would be discovered, and he eventually strangled himself, rather than facing the humiliation and punishment that would come with capture. With Ohotomo dead, the other ministers of the Afumi court dispersed and fled.  Woyori and his men, meeting up at Sasanami, hunted down the Ministers of the Left and Right—Soga no Akaye and Nakatomi no Kane—as well as others who had fought with Ohotomo and who were considered criminals. They were all marched back to Fuwa, where, on the 25th day of the 7th month, Ohotomo's head was presented to Ohoama.  The war, it seems, was over. Or at least, the fighting was over.  There was still a lot to be settled.  First off, it would hardly have been practical to wipe out every single person on the losing side.  For one thing, that would have devastated the Court even further, likely creating a huge power vacuum.  In addition, many of the supporters on both sides were not necessarily there out of purely partisan reasons.  I would point out that many of the family names that we see in the record are found on both sides of the conflict.  Inukahi no Isokimi may have fought for Ohotomo, but we also see an Inukahi no Ohotomo fighting on the behalf of Ohoama.  Fumi no Nemaro was a major commander in Ohoama's army, while Fumi no Kusuri had been sent by the Afumi court to raise troops in the East Country.  And Hasama no Shihote was killed with Isokimi at Awazu, while a Hasama no Nemaro was working under the command of General Fukei, in Nara, to guard Tatsuta. There wasn't necessarily a simple divide along family lines.  It is possible that these individuals were all fairly well removed from each other, and from different parts of their respective families, or clans. They are often given different kabane, the family rank system used at this time, though I suspect that may have more to do with later changes, with those on the winning side being promoted over those who supported the Afumi court.  However, it is also the case that Japan has a long history of family members supporting both sides in any major conflict.  That way, no matter who wins, the family itself finds itself on the winning side. But there did have to be some accountability.  This is something that one can point to time and again—if the losing side is not held accountable for their actions, then what is to prevent them from just regrouping and trying again?  And yet that need for justice and punishment must be tempered with some amount of humanity. Ultimately, about one month after the end of the war, eight of the Afumi ministers were found guilty of truly heinous offences and they were condemned to suffer what the Nihon Shoki says was the “Extreme Penalty”.  The Minister of the Right, Nakatomi no Kane, was executed at Tane, in Asai.  Meanwhile the Minister of the Left, Soga no Akaye; along with the Dainagon, or Grand Councillor, Kose no Hito, as well as their children and grandchildren, along with the children of the late Nakatomi no Kane and Soga no Hatayasu, were all sent into banishment.  All others were pardoned. And of course those who had supported Ohoama, and who had come to his aid, were given public favour and reward.  In many cases this likely meant receiving high office and corresponding rank, along with increased stipend payments.  There is a notable shift in the makeup of the court, going forward, and it seems clear that families would want to associate themselves with those who fought on Ohoama's side, rather than Ohotomo's, if they could help it.  That was no doubt a part of works like the various diaries and house records that would have been used to compile the Nihon Shoki, recording the deeds that any house did for the throne. Along with all of the punishments and plaudits that were meted out in the 8th month of 672, there was one more event—something of an outlier.  We are told that Chihisakobe no Muraji no Sabichi, the governor of the province of Wohari, went off into the mountains and committed suicide. Sabichi had originally met Ohoama at the Kuwana district house—the local government office—when he had first arrived from Yoshino.  He had a large number of troops—20,000 by the Nihon Shoki's count—which helped Ohoama to ultimately defeat the Afumi court.  So why he would go off into the mountains and commit suicide was anyone's guess.  The Nihon Shoki suggests that it was possible that his allegiance had changed, and he may have been trying to plot against Ohoama.  Perhaps he had been convinced that Afumi court was going to come out on top, and so had begun some plot.  Or he just had a falling out or became disillusioned for some reason.  Whatever it was, it remains a mystery, even today. With the war concluded, it was time for Ohoama to make his way from the field to the Capital so that he could transition to ruling the State properly.  But Ohoama was not interested, it would seem, in setting himself up in his brother's capital.  Setting up in the Ohotsu capital may have raised a few eyebrows.  It had not been a completely popular move to begin with, and it was also the home of the Afumi court's legitimacy.  To take up the throne there, I can only imagine that it would have further reinforced the idea that Ohoama was the usurper, taking the throne that was meant for his nephew.  Instead, he made the decision to travel to the ancient capital, in Asuka, but he was not in a hurry. They headed out on the 8th day of the 9th month of 672, making it from Fuwa to Kuwana.  Here he likely met up with his wife, Princess Uno, and his ten year old son, Prince Ohotsu.  The following day they headed out, traveling back along the route that they had taken from Yoshino, but at a much more leisurely route.  The royal carriage stayed the night in Suzuka.  From there, it was another day to Abe, likely referring to modern Ahai county, in Iga, near Ueno city.  They then continued on to Nabari.  Finally, on the 12th day,they arrived at the Yamato capital—that is to say Asuka—and Ohoama took up residence for a time at the Shima Palace.  This was only, it seems, to give people time to get the actual palace ready, because three days later, Ohoama moved into the Wokamoto Palace.  And with that, Ohoama began the work of running the state—but there was still plenty to prepare.  For one thing, there were foreign embassies—Kim Ap-sil and others arrived.  It was still going to take a while to get the capital ready for guests, though.  From what we can tell, they were probably building a grand new palace, and it would take some time for it to be prepared.  So the Silla embassy was entertained in Tsukushi, where Prince Kurikuma would have been in charge of hosting them.  They were likely filled on the new developments and provided a ship. Meanwhile, Ohoama made sure that all of the appropriate rewards were given out.  On the 4th day of the 12th month, we are told that all those who had rendered services were given higher cap-ranks, based on what they had done. And as the year 672 closes out—and with it, the first of the two Chronicles for Ohoama, the soon-to-be elevated Temmu Tennou. But there is one final entry, marking the death of Wina no Kimi no Takami in the 12th month of the year.  We know that Wina no Kimi no *Iwasuki* was working for the Afumi court, sent to rally troops in the East, but he fled when they encountered Ohoama's troops at Fuwa Pass.  Takami, on the other hand, we know little about, but I suspect may have been on the side of Ohoama.  It is an odd entry, and, like so many, unexplained.  Perhaps it meant something to the people of the early 8th century, but if so, that meaning is likely lost to us. And so we close the book on the Jinshin no Ran—the Jinshin War, or possibly the Disturbance or even Rebellion, depending on how you feel about it.  This account is one of the most detailed we have of this kind of event, and yet it does not seem that it was entirely unique.  There are plenty of indications that previous sovereigns had to fight their way to the throne, or else had to repel others who would try to take it by force.  This was almost a tradition among the royal house of Yamato.  But now that the matter of succession was well and truly settled, it was time to get on with other things. Who knows what an Afumi court may have done and how they could have changed things.  What we do know is what Ohoama—and his queen, Uno no Himemiko—did.  They built upon, or in some cases possibly even fabricated, the legacy of Naka no Oe.  They would set in stone many of the things that had been put in place, and at the same time make certain changes, as well.  The Yamato state was getting started. And we'll start to dive into that next episode.  Until then, thank you once again for listening and for all of your support. If you like what we are doing, please tell your friends and feel free to rate us wherever you listen to podcasts.  If you feel the need to do more, and want to help us keep this going, we have information about how you can donate on Patreon or through our KoFi site, ko-fi.com/sengokudaimyo, or find the links over at our main website,  SengokuDaimyo.com/Podcast, where we will have some more discussion on topics from this episode. Also, feel free to reach out to our Sengoku Daimyo Facebook page.  You can also email us at the.sengoku.daimyo@gmail.com.  Thank you, also, to Ellen for their work editing the podcast. And that's all for now.  Thank you again, and I'll see you next episode on Sengoku Daimyo's Chronicles of Japan.  

In this episode, we detail the structure and function of the intestinal mucosal barrier, highlighting key roles that zinc plays in supporting various aspects of mucosal barrier integrity. We detail key anatomical features, including the mucus layer, epithelial cells, and tight junctions, before discussing zinc's physiological roles, its relationship with copper, and factors that can affect zinc levels. The discussion further details mechanistic features of zinc absorption as well as specialized forms such as zinc carnosine.Topics:1. Introduction - Overview of intestinal hyperpermeability and intestinal barrier function- Highlighting the role of zinc 2. Intestinal Barrier Anatomy - Four major layers: mucosa, submucosa, muscularis externa, serosa- Mucosa subdivisions; focus on epithelium  3. The Mucus Layer  - Location over the epithelial surface- Composition: mucin-rich, secreted by goblet cells- Goblet cell mucin storage and expansion upon hydration- Functions: trapping pathogens, lubricating epithelium, housing molecules including secretory IgA- Small intestine mucus - Large intestine mucus 4. The Intestinal Epithelium - Monolayer of epithelial cells: enterocytes, goblet cells, and more- Tight junctions, paracellular transport - Continuous epithelial renewal 5. Introduction to Zinc - Zinc as a trace mineral required in minute quantities for numerous physiological processes - Second most abundant trace mineral after iron; majority stored in muscle and bone- Maintaining plasma and intracellular zinc concentrations within narrow range- Both deficiency and excess can disrupt biochemical processes 6. Zinc and Copper  - Zinc and copper as closely interconnected minerals- Zinc, copper, and metallothionein binding in enterocytes- Both high and low zinc can disrupt zinc-copper balance- Metallothionein as a cysteine-rich metal-binding protein  7. Factors Affecting Zinc Levels  - Multifactorial- Possible signs of low zinc status 8. Zinc Absorption  - Dietary sources- Primary absorption in small intestine - In the stomach: HCl and pepsin denature proteins and cleave peptide bonds, releasing zinc from protein complexes- Dietary zinc often bound within tertiary protein structure- Specialized transporters  9. Zinc's Role in the Intestinal Barrier  - Zinc and tight junction proteins- Zinc and Intestinal Epithelial Cells - Zinc and the mucus layer 10. Broader Context of Zinc in Physiology   11. Zinc Carnosine  - Molecular complex of zinc and carnosine- L-carnosine composed of beta-alanine and L-histidine- Gastrointestinal context 12. Conclusion - Multifactorial and multi-system.Thank you to our episode sponsors: 1. ⁠⁠⁠⁠OmneDiem®'s⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Histamine Digest®⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Histamine Digest® PureMAX⁠⁠⁠⁠ : Use code STXAL9VI for 15% off.2. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Histamine Digest® Histamine Complete⁠⁠⁠⁠ with DAO, Vitamin C, Quercetin, Bromelain, and Stinging Nettle Root Extract: Use code STXAL9VI for 15% off.3. Codex Labs: Explore Codex Labs' collections for acne, eczema, and more. Shop the BIA Collection HereThanks for tuning in!Get Chloe's Book Today! "⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠75 Gut-Healing Strategies & Biohacks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠" Follow Chloe on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@synthesisofwellness⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠synthesisofwellness.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Episode 203 - How to Compete in a Crowded DTF MarketIntro: The Shop StruggleDTF is booming and more businesses are jumping in.DTF is much easier than older methods like screen printing.Barrier to entry is lower with 'production friendly' equipment under $15k.Full-Digital Apparel that looks, feels and washes great is 'easy' to make.If you're feeling squeezed on price, overwhelmed by competition, or stuck on how to grow this episode is for you.Why It Feels CrowdedCustom t-shirt businesses are more common than even just a decade ago.People have a 'friend' or 'cousin' with a cricut.Customer expectations are all over the place a "Why is this shirt $30 when the guy down the street sells it for $15?".Social media makes everyone look busy, even if they aren't making money.The Good NewsJust because everyone's cousin makes shirts, doesnt mean they are good at it.Most 'side-hustlers' give up or cannot deliver.The business isnt 'easy' so YOU putting in the work will be around when others won't.The barrier to entry to be profitable is still high enough that its not for everyone.You can still produce a high-quality custom logo apparel for the same price or cheaper than stores sell blank apparel.Avoid Common TrapsRacing to the bottom on price.You will NEVER be the cheapest. "There is hardly anything in this world that some man cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper."Undercharging because they don't know how to break down costs and margins.Know your numbers!Consider other costs - website, accounting software, credit card fees.No Systems in place to make sure your business runs wellNo workflowsNo pricing structureNo SchedulesNo delegationNo CRMTrying to do it all: artwork, printing, packaging, selling - without delegation or efficiency.Competing the Smart WayFind Your Differentiator: Custom designs? Rush jobs? Better garments? Customer service? Find 1-3 core differentiators and talk about them all the time.Find Your Niche What is your ideal customer or product? Push towards that and spend less time trying to compete beyond.Charge What You're Worth: Because of the above, you can (and should) charge more than others.Tighten Production: Tips to streamline (pre-press setups, batching jobs, designated work zones).Less mistakesFaster deliveryLess wasteCustomer ExperiencePersonal deliveryHandwritten thank yousReorder remindersBirthday / AnniversaryGrowing in a Crowded SpaceDon't be Amazon / Walmart You can't beat the lowest price, but you can offer the best experience / quality.People will want to buy from YOU / Your Business... because you are not the big business.Get Referrals WorkingScript for asking for referralsRemind people againGive/Get programLeverage What You Already HaveUpsells / bundled productBe the best on the blockYou would be surprised on how many people havent truly mastered their craft, be a master. Experiment, practice, play, learn.Invest in an Efficiency (repeat): Set goals for single efficiencies you can invest in (even if it's small.)Additional heat pressesAccounting softwareCRMEcom StoreFinal Thoughts: There's Still Room!You don't need to be the best at everything, just the most dialed-in for your customers.Think efficient and excellent, not big and chaotic.You don't need to be the master of an entire catalog of products, just be fantastic at a handful.If you are struggling to compete with lower priced competitors, consider changing how to are getting your business or what you sell.Only offer premium quality apparelLook for a niche or type of customer that is going to be less price concerned.Purchase apparel from the 'cheap' competition to see how you can offer a better product (and sell against that.)Challenge: What's one thing you can fix in your pricing or workflow this week?

In this episode, we are seeking the Lord on behalf of several right now issues that we are facing on this earth. We are praying for our children, our parents, our loved ones that are suffering with sicknesses, and we are lifting up our leaders. Thank you for being a supporter of this podcast as I grow and learn things will become more like previous episodes, but I do not want to delay the podcast while I learn how to use the new format. Thank you for all of your support. Thank you for your shares. Thank you for joining your faith with my faith so that we can see God move upon the face of the earth if you have a prayer request, you can text 843-790-4229 or submit it by email to seeingwithoutseeing2020@gmail.com. Please put prayer request in the subject line. That email address can be used on Zelle and PayPal. If you desire to sow a seed, you can do that also on cash app at $seeingwithoutseeing. Thank you once again for your support please share this and believe God with us as we seek God.

Parenting is holy work—but also hard, messy, exhausting, and humbling. In this heartfelt devotional and prayer, Peyton Garland draws an unexpected connection between plant care and child-rearing, sharing how becoming a “plant lady” during pregnancy gave her new eyes to see how growth, nurture, and resilience apply to raising kids. Whether you’re parenting toddlers, teens, or navigating young adulthood, Peyton encourages you to plant flowers in the trenches. That means practicing vulnerability, modeling God’s grace, and creating an atmosphere of love, humility, and honesty within your home. Even when the days feel muddy or the nights are sleepless, God is with you in the thick of it. As Isaiah promises, the Lord will guide and strengthen you, turning your weary places into flourishing gardens. Today's Bible Verse: “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” – Isaiah 58:11 (NIV)

Across America, a quiet revolution is transforming education. For decades, students were confined to schools determined by their zip codes — but now, conservative governors are shifting the power back to parents. Through education savings accounts, state funding follows the student, giving families more choice and control. In this episode, panelists Chip Rogers, Dr. Ralph Alvarado, Erika Donalds, Mesha Mainor, and Christopher Mohrman explore how to champion these victories, win public support, and inspire more states to join the movement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this powerful 100th episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah Cartwright reflects on the journey of motherhood while raising children with autism. She discusses the challenges, emotional struggles, and the importance of community support. Rashidah emphasizes the need for self-care, vulnerability, and resetting expectations as essential components of being a badass mom. The conversation highlights the strength and resilience of mothers navigating the complexities of autism, encouraging listeners to embrace their journeys and seek support.What we discuss:00:00 Empowering Moms: A Journey Begins01:39 The Weight of Expectations: Masking Emotions05:31 Navigating Challenges: The Struggles of a Caregiver10:01 Finding Support: The Importance of Community14:52 Facing Reality: Accepting Life's Changes23:08 Resetting Expectations: Embracing New Realities26:18 Finding Community and Support29:58 The Importance of Self-Care32:23 Embracing Vulnerability and Growth36:08 The Journey of Acceptance38:59 Celebrating Small Victories43:47 Recognizing Self-Worth46:07 The Role of a Parent AdvocateFeatured Guests in This 100th Episode CompilationIn this milestone 100th episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we're honored to bring you a powerful compilation featuring the personal journeys of incredible guests who have shared their stories throughout the podcast. Hear from:Khrystine (Ep. 38)Maggie (Ep. 67)Arte'a (Ep. 86)Sha (Ep. 80)Susie (Ep. 76)Andromeda (Ep. 56)Brandy (Ep. 55)Kristyn (Ep. 53)Katie (Ep. 33)Tracey (Ep. 19)Dr. Divina Lopez (Ep. 39)Jasmine (Ep. 71)Dr. Alisha (Ep. 72)Sharon (Ep. 90)Tiphanie (Ep. 82)Johnna (Ep. 46)Ashley (Ep. 94)Grace (Ep. 70)Kaleen (Ep. 52)Shannon (Ep. 5)Stephanie (Ep. 28)Jessica (Ep. 31)Jan (Ep. 40)Nadia (Ep. 69)Evy (Ep. 83)Taneka (Ep. 30)Ivory (Ep. 45)Jenelle (Ep. 84)Brittney (Ep. 57)Iesha (Ep. 89)Sheena E (Ep. 18)Autism for Badass Moms is a community where all are WELCOME!Make sure to subscribe for more real and powerful episodes you didn't know you needed.FOLLOW US:Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcastYouTube: www.youtube.com/theabmpodcast

In Part 1 of this powerful 100th episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah Cartwright takes listeners on an unapologetically real journey through the highs, lows, and in-betweens of raising children with autism. From the moment of diagnosis to the endless fight for services and understanding, Rashidah opens up about the raw emotions, relentless advocacy, and unshakable love that define this path. This milestone isn't just about a number—it's a celebration of a community built on grit, grace, and the kind of strength only autism moms truly understand. Packed with personal stories, hard-earned lessons, and a rallying cry for connection, this episode is a tribute to every mother holding it together when the world doesn't make it easy. It's a reminder that while the road may be tough, we are tougher—together.What we discuss:00:00 Welcome to the Badass Community02:37 Celebrating 100 Episodes05:55 The Diagnosis Journey Begins08:43 Navigating Denial and Acceptance11:34 The Fight for Resources14:54 The IEP Experience17:46 The Emotional Toll of Advocacy20:37 Finding Support and Community23:55 The Impact of COVID-1926:48 The Role of Fathers in Autism Advocacy29:34 The Importance of Communication32:51 Facing Societal Challenges35:45 The Power of Sharing Stories38:37 Looking Ahead: Hope and Resilience41:28 Closing Thoughts and Call to ActionFeatured Guests in This 100th Episode CompilationIn this milestone 100th episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we're honored to bring you a powerful compilation featuring the personal journeys of incredible guests who have shared their stories throughout the podcast. Hear from:Ameena (Ep. 6)Kemba (Ep. 7)Tiffany (Ep. 13)Chasity (Ep. 12)Sharon (Ep. 14)Tonya (Ep. 16)Nicole (Ep. 32)Sakiesha (Ep. 34)Tiara (Ep. 42)Grace (Ep. 93)Danielle (Ep. 92)Shelly (Ep. 78)Allysa (Ep. 73)Chrystal (Ep. 58)Alicia (Ep. 51)Courtney (Ep. 23)Aisha (Ep. 54)Debra (Ep. 68)Michelle (Ep. 98)Latonya (Ep. 96)Anita (Ep. 81)Dr. Alexis Bromley (Ep. 75)Christina (Ep. 36)Jessica (Ep. 24)Latasha (Ep. 48)Moet (Ep. 60)Melissa (Ep. 61)Ivan (Ep. 63)Amanda (Ep. 64)Aleta (Ep. 66)Brittany (Ep. 97)Debbie (Ep. 95)Jessica (Ep. 91)Jattu (Ep. 87)Johnnie (Ep. 79)Nikki (Ep. 37)Carmen (Ep. 17)Autism for Badass Moms is a community where all are WELCOME!Make sure to subscribe for more real and powerful episodes you didn't know you needed.FOLLOW US:Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcastYouTube: www.youtube.com/theabmpodcast

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Jeep "Ducking." Read dating. And how many friends do we need to be happy? That's what Paul is BuZzin' about today on The Daily BuZz!!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This podcast is brought to you by Outcomes Rocket, your exclusive healthcare marketing agency. Learn how to accelerate your growth by going to⁠ outcomesrocket.com Even with insurance, nearly half of Americans delay care simply because they can't find a doctor in their network. In this episode, Eric Demers, CEO of Madaket Health, talks about the growing issue of healthcare access and cost in the U.S., even for insured individuals. Madaket commissioned a national survey to better understand how bad provider data impacts patients, finding that nearly half of Americans delay care because they can't find in-network providers, especially millennials, who are more likely to seek alternative care routes. Demers explains that the root cause is outdated, inaccurate, and poorly synchronized provider data, worsened by the lack of national standards and inconsistent systems across payers and providers. Even vertically integrated health systems suffer from internal data mismatches. Madaket Health aims to fix this by acting as a data bridge between payers and providers, leveraging its platform, used by over 80% of U.S. providers, to keep information up-to-date and aligned, improving directories and patient access to care. Tune in to learn how broken provider data is quietly undermining healthcare access and what's being done to fix it! Resources: Connect with and follow Eric Demers on LinkedIn. Follow Madaket Health on LinkedIn and visit their website!

Ever wondered how someone goes from being a die-hard statist to embracing a "no king but Christ" worldview? Patrick Green, creator of the 100 Fold Testimonies podcast, shares his journey from a statist Christian to embracing "no king but Christ (King Jesus)".  Patrick's journey is a rollercoaster of faith, doubt, and revelation. He opens up about his Catholic upbringing, his struggles with infertility, and the three-phase process that led to his spiritual awakening. It's a raw and honest account that'll have you questioning your own beliefs. Patrick's journey unfolds in three distinct phases: The Devil's Barriers to God  Conditioned for Jesus via Personal Tragedy Receiving the Word: Return to God But this isn't just a feel-good testimony. Craig and Patrick dive deep into the thorny issue of state worship. They tackle questions like: Can you be a Christian and still pledge allegiance to a flag? What does the Bible really say about government?  How do we break free from the cult of political idolatry? Drawing from biblical passages like 1st Samuel 8, they challenge listeners to reconsider their relationship with political institutions. It's a conversation that'll make you squirm, think, and maybe even change your mind. Craig and Patrick don't shy away from their own past mistakes either. They share cringe-worthy stories of their former media consumption habits and political biases. Remember when you couldn't wait to get home and turn on your favorite news pundit? Yeah, they've been there too. But it's not all heavy stuff. Patrick introduces his new podcast, 100 Fold Testimonies, and invites listeners to share their own Jesus stories. It's a reminder that amidst all the political noise, personal transformation is still at the heart of faith. So, whether you're a political junkie, a skeptic, or just someone trying to figure out this whole Christianity thing, this episode's got something for you. It's a journey from statism to Christ-centeredness that'll challenge your assumptions and maybe even change your life. Ready to have your worldview shaken up a bit? Tune in and prepare to see politics, faith, and yourself in a whole new light

The Chief Executive of Barrier Air, says keeping fares down is a huge challenge, with the cost of aircraft parts up five-fold since Covid. 

In this episode of Masters of Moments, Jake Wurzak sits down with Matthew Mering to explore the evolution of lifestyle hotels and the founding story behind Outbound Hotels. From his early experiences in the hospitality industry, starting with bartending at Club Med to co-founding a nightclub while attending business school. Matthew shares how his path ultimately led to building a distinct hotel brand focused on outdoor destinations.  He and Jake dig into the nuanced thinking behind site selection, brand building, operations, and capital strategy, offering a masterclass in how to create hospitality experiences that resonate deeply with both travelers and local communities. They discuss: * Why Outbound Hotels targets seasonal, outdoor-focused markets with high barriers to entry * How brand consistency is balanced with property-level flexibility using a “soft brand” approach * The value of partnering with Gettys Group and CoralTree to stay lean yet vertically integrated * Why strong local GMs and creative directors are essential to outperforming in independent hotels * How AI and social media are disrupting traditional hotel loyalty and booking behavior A must-listen for anyone building or investing in the future of independent hospitality. Links: Matthew on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmering/ Waterton - https://www.waterton.com/ Connect & Invest with Jake: Follow Jake on X: https://x.com/JWurzak 1 on 1 coaching with Jake: https://www.jakewurzak.com/coaching Learn How to Invest with DoveHill: https://bit.ly/3yg8Pwo Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:00:42) - Matthew's background and career (00:15:06) - Launching Outbound Hotels (00:17:59) - The importance of location in hotel development (00:27:11) - Creating unique guest experiences (00:30:46) - Challenges and rewards of remote hotel locations (00:35:20) - Deal evaluations, renovation challenges and strategies (00:40:59) - Navigating the pandemic: Jackson Hole project (00:44:42) - Operational insights: The importance of good management (00:54:53) - Marketing innovations: Embracing the outdoorsy campaign (00:57:10) - AI and technology: The future of hospitality (01:01:07) - Lessons learned: Mistakes and low leverage strategy (01:04:14) - Favorite hotels and closing remarks

Let's talk about something that so many women wrestle with—but don't always say out loud: why is it so dang hard to invest in ourselves?In this episode, I'm digging into the real (and slightly messy) reasons we tend to put everyone else's needs, dreams, schedules, and snack preferences ahead of our own. From societal conditioning and chronic multitasking to good old-fashioned fear of judgment, we unpack all the reasons we self-abandon... and how to stop doing that.This isn't just about spa days and self-care candles (although, yes, those are nice too). It's about actually making room for your goals, your voice, your joy—and not feeling guilty about it.I share what I've learned about building self-awareness, standing boldly in your truth (even when it ruffles feathers), and why investing in your growth isn't just for you—it's for the generations of women watching you do it.If you've ever felt like you need permission to prioritize your own dreams, this is it. No more waiting. No more apologizing. Let's be the kind of women who go after what we want—and bring others with us.

In this episode of The Diana Show, I'm getting real about something so many of us struggle with—but rarely say out loud: investing in ourselves.Why is it that we'll move mountains for everyone else in our lives, but when it comes to our own dreams and goals, we hesitate? I talk about the ways we've been conditioned to put ourselves last, the mental load of multitasking, and how easy it is to lose sight of who we are underneath the caregiving, career-building, and people-pleasing.We'll dig into the fear of being judged, the guilt of wanting more, and the quiet, powerful decision to stop abandoning ourselves. I also share practical ways to start prioritizing your own goals again—and how doing so can be the boldest, most beautiful example you set for your kids, your friends, and your future self.If you've ever felt like you're cheering everyone else on but holding yourself back, this one's for you. Let's talk about how to reclaim our voice, our time, and our vision—together.

Send us a textWhat perfectly peaceful place is home to ghost crabs and surrounded by bottlenose dolphins? Here's a clue…it protects the people, plants, and animals that live nearby! Listen to learn more, and see if you can solve this WILD mystery!Download your WILD Freebie for this episode here.Support the showPurchase individual issues of the WILD Magazine here.Order your GO WILD Nature Journal here. Download the digital GO WILD Nature Journal here.Visit the contributors to this team: Laura Stroup: @fireflynatureschool Fireflynatureschool.com Lauren Giordano: @chickieandroo Chickieandroo.com Stephanie Hathaway: @stephhathawaydesigns Stephaniehathawaydesigns.com

Are you a purpose-driven coach who wonders why you're staring at an empty calendar? Are you unsure about getting those first crucial clients? If you're caught in the frustrating cycle of needing experience to get clients and needing clients to get more experience, you are not alone. More importantly, you are closer to breaking through than you think. Join me in today's solo episode to uncover the key to a new coach's biggest mountain to conquer: landing those first few game-changing clients. We're diving into this essential topic right now with practical strategies you can implement today. Your first client is waiting for YOU!Show Highlights:Make a mindset shift around the “experience paradox.”Three permission slips to give yourself:Permission to be a beginnerPermission to start before you feel “ready”Permission to charge for your valueConcrete action step #1: Write down one instance when you helped someone create a solution for an issue. Strategies for inviting clients into your space:Think of your warm market as your gold mine.Determine your three circles of influence. (“You cannot be a secret and a success at the same time.”)Build your Know-Like-Trust factor by providing value. Be clear and specific!Use your warm market as an opportunity to offer barter coaching.Concrete action step #2: Identify 10 people in your warm market who need what you offer or might know those who do. Reach out to one person today.Using the Beta Client Approach:Position yourself as someone launching a beta program for your coaching methodology. (This reframes your newness as exclusivity.)Take on a limited number of beta clients for a specified time frame.You can build your client base and clarify your offering to achieve exceptional results. Concrete action step #3: Consider your ideal client and develop a simple beta program tailored to your coaching niche.Building credibility without experience: Where to begin:Leverage your training and certifications.Share your personal transformation story.Connect your professional background to coaching.Gather micro-testimonials from informal helping situations.Create consistent, valuable content. Concrete action step #4: Create your own credibility stack. (Check out SCS 336, What's Your Value Proposition?)Meg's 7-day challenge: Are you up for it?Resources:Connect with Meg:Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what's available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT.

In this episode of SpaceTime, we unlock the secrets of the Moon's far side, explore the Sun's helicity barrier, and discuss the European Space Agency's advancements in orbital launch vehicles.Extended Volcanism on the Moon's Far SideRecent findings reveal that the Moon's far side has experienced extended volcanism for at least 1.4 billion years, with two significant volcanic phases occurring around 4.2 and 2.8 billion years ago. This research, stemming from samples collected by China's Chang' E6 mission, provides insights into the Moon's geological history and the asymmetry between its near and far sides. The study highlights the role of colossal impacts in shaping the Moon's interior and suggests uneven distribution of volatile elements.Discovery of the Sun's Helicity BarrierA groundbreaking study has identified a region of the Sun known as the helicity barrier, which plays a crucial role in heating and accelerating the solar wind. Observations from NASA's Parker Solar Probe have confirmed the existence of this barrier, providing insights into the mechanisms of turbulent dissipation and coronal heating. This discovery helps explain temperature anomalies in the solar atmosphere and enhances our understanding of space weather events that impact Earth.European Space Agency's Launch Vehicle DevelopmentsThe European Space Agency has narrowed its list of potential candidates for future orbital launch vehicles. The selected companies will receive funding to develop their systems, aiming to increase competition and choice in European launch services. This initiative mirrors efforts by NASA in the U.S. to foster a diverse range of commercial launch providers, enhancing capabilities for future space missions.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesNature Journalhttps://www.nature.com/naturePhysical Reviewhttps://journals.aps.org/pr/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

In this episode of the AlphaMind Podcast, host Steven Goldstein delves into the often overlooked yet highly disruptive force of shame, especially in the world of trading.Steven explores how shame can well up from feelings of inadequacy and failure, and how it can undermine confidence, decision-making, and resilience—crucial elements for success.He shares personal reflections and practical strategies to recognize, confront, and manage shame, emphasizing its impact on high performers. He also concludes by discussing several actionable steps traders can incorporate into their practice to diminish shame's hold and unlock their true potential.Whether you're a trader or any high-achiever, this episode offers valuable insights on overcoming the 'shame barrier' to elevate your performance and foster personal growth.AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global MarketsAlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets.Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities.Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.

In this compelling episode of Braving Business, we sit down with James Swanwick—esteemed alcohol-free coach, investor, entrepreneur, and former ESPN SportsCenter anchor—who is revolutionizing how high-performing professionals view alcohol consumption. As the creator and founder of Project 90, a neuroscience-based program boasting a remarkable 98% success rate in reducing alcohol consumption, James offers profound insights into the transformative power of an alcohol-free lifestyle. His upcoming book, CLEAR: How to Achieve Success Without Alcohol, launching March 18, 2025, promises to be a game-changer for entrepreneurs, executives, and health enthusiasts alike.Key Topics Covered:Alcohol-Free Wealth: Discover how cutting back on drinking can dramatically enhance your career, family life, and financial standing.Breaking the Stigma: Learn why abandoning alcohol is becoming the ultimate status symbol among high performers.The Neuroscience of Quitting Alcohol: Delve into the science behind Project 90's exceptional success rate, starkly contrasting with traditional methods like AA.Main Insights:James shares his journey from a high-profile media career to becoming a leading figure in the alcohol-free movement. His expertise, featured on popular podcasts like High Intensity Health and Lead On Purpose with James Laughlin, underscores the profound impact of ditching alcohol on personal and professional success.Actionable Takeaways:1Reframe Your Perspective: Understand the hidden costs of alcohol on your productivity and health.2Adopt Science-Backed Strategies: Leverage neuroscience-based techniques to reduce alcohol consumption and boost clarity.3Embrace New Norms: Position yourself as a forward-thinking leader by making alcohol-free living a status symbol.Tune in and discover how an alcohol-free lifestyle could be the key to unlocking your full potential in both business and life.Connect with James:www.jamesswanwick.comIG: @jamesswanwickLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesswanwickContact us:www.BravingBusiness.com - Co-Hosted by Tal Zlotnitsky & PJ Benoit

Who is Elizabeth McDonough? Charlie introduces the audience to the Senate parliamentarian, and he explains how she's become an unlikely barrier to passing the Big Beautiful Bill, and how the impasse can be solved. Charlie gets a live update from Israel from Josh Hammer, where they discuss what life is like under bombardment from ballistic missiles, why Gen Z has moved so sharply toward supporting Palestine, and whether the shift can be reversed. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.