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We look at job security and long-term options for esports players after they hang up their controllers.The industry is worth billions of dollars and players win big prizes, but many make more money as content makers, and plan to move away from esports long-term.We head to an esports event in Birmingham UK to speak to professional gamers about their career prospects - and to young people who idolise these players and want to enter this field themselves.Produced and presented by Will Chalk(Image: Esports player Archie Pickthall at the 2025 RLCS Major 1 tournament in Birmingham UK. Credit: BLAST/Michal Konkol)

In this week's episode of Unfiltered, we begin by discussing China's initiative to train children in artificial intelligence from the age of six. Next, we discuss Vybz Kartel's newfound global fame and what it signifies for the resurgence of dancehall music. We then address the distressing news of 85 Muslim graves, many belonging to babies and children, being vandalised in Watford's Carpenders Park Lawn Cemetery—a crime currently under investigation as a potential Islamophobic hate crime . Finally, we revisit the ongoing bin strikes in Birmingham and discuss their impact on the city's current state.Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ_CNKqpdv2h0zd_chBuM2g/joinTo Support our channel join us on Patreon now starting from £1.00 per month for exclusive content every week plus loads of behind the scenes contenthttps://www.patreon.com/TheexpresstruthshowTimestamps:0:00 – Intro1:56 – China introduces AI education for children as young as six8:18 – Vybz Kartel's global rise: Is dancehall making a comeback?30:39 – Muslim graves targeted in Watford cemetery attack37:42 – Birmingham bin strikes and the city's ongoing decline49:18 – Outro

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Send us a textWest London Radio 89.6rm or https://thisiswestside.com is a great station to listen to Hip Hop, R&B, Reggae, Afrobeats, D&B and more. New UK music & artists are regularly featured on this station, just as in this show with Nappa who is an up & coming artist from Birmingham UK. Here's Nappa's latest music video & instagram https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TmATw5uiPA https://www.instagram.com/official.nappaThis recording was taken from the popular "Jam Sessions" Show hosted by DJ Rude. This show has been going strong for 10yrs + https://www.instagram.com/rudedj/?hl=enThis is part 3 of the show on Jan 26, 2025 when myself & Andy Franklin joined as guests. Parts 1 & 2 will be up-loaded to the premium feed. Join the family at https://djbenniejames.supercast.comThanks to Andy Franklin for the invite and the Rude for making me feel so welcome at Westside.   Support the showI.G: benniejames3Twitter: @benniejames123FB: bennie.james.10Website: djbeniejames.comStudio Line: 1-856 295-1753 - leave a voicemail messageLicensed by ASCAP 400009874

It's time for the Comic Talk Headlines with Generally Nerdy! Ozzy Osbourne's Final Show adds more actsMarvel Rivals controversyNew Halo bookDumbledore cast for new MAX seriesClayface hits the Movie and Rumor sections both pretty hardAnd so much more...Plus, don't forget to subscribe for more fresh content.  Music Follow-ups/CorrectionsNeil Gaiman- Newest accusations have drawn now Ex-Wife Amanda Palmer (Dresden Dolls) into the fray. https://deadline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/neil-gaiman-wisconsin-rape-suit.pdf Primus- New drummer John Hoffman announced. Just some dude from Shreveport LA… sweetThe Sword- 2 new shows added to their “Return” April 10 in Dallas TX. April 11 in San Antonio TX. New Music/VideoRise Against- Nod https://youtu.be/7WkrZi19q4UNew mix sound for the band. Lyrical'ly seems to meander, and at times it feels like is wanders into territory already covered in “Savior.”Underoath- New album announced. “The Place After This One” due out March 28th through MNRK Heavy.Allegaeon- Driftwood https://youtu.be/SrUZdqy7spAas much as I don't WANT to like these guys, they are just really damn good. This might not be as good as their last single, but still better than a lot of newer bands.ALSO ~ new album, The Ossuary Lens, due out April 4th on Metal Blade. Not a concept album per se, but all about different views on death.Peter Murphy- Swoon Feat Trent Reznor https://youtu.be/ZPOgRAQdbtQGoth royalty being great. Not much more to say.Callous Daoboys- Two-Headed Trout/The Demon of Unreality Limping Like a Dog https://youtu.be/wL5UpOrHTBYThe Daoboys getting a little more theatrical with not just their presentation, but also their writing and arrangements.ALSO~ New record, I Don't Want To See You In Heaven, due out May 19.Tetrarch- Never Again (Parasite) https://youtu.be/yLFNdIRwng4Modern Nu-Metal… still just feels rather middle of the road. Tours/FestivalsAttack Attack!- Roadside Rumble Tour. Support from Convictions, Downswing, and Uncured.Starts May 15 in Greensboro, NC through May 22 in Memphis TN.https://www.bandsintown.com/a/186318 Dropkick Murphys X Bad Religion- Summer of Discontent Tour. The Mainliners opening. Will run from July 22 in Spokane, WA through August 17 in Big Flats NY. Tickets go on sale the 20th 10 a.m. local time at www.dropkickmurphys.com  and www.badreligion.com.Black Sabbath- Ozzy's final live performance. July 5th in Birmingham UK. Metallica, GnR, Tool, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Alice in Chains, Halestorm, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Mastodon, Rival Sons. Plus a slew of vocalists and musicians will be lending their talents to the show as well.Summer of ‘99 & Beyond- Creed and Nickelback to headline. Friday July 18 and Saturday July 19 in East Troy WI. Tickets on sale Feb 21.https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0700624A2E3B4183 Russian Circles X Pelican- Touring together starting March 3 at Delmar in St. Louis, MO and wraps up on March 22 at the Fine Line in Minneapolis, MN.ALSO ~ Pelican are releasing their first album in 6 years. Flickering Resonance, due out May 16.https://www.stubhub.com/russian-circles-tickets/performer/493440 Converge- have announced a handful of tour dates around the festivals they have already been announced on.https://jacobbannon.com/blogs/news/converge-announce-u-s-tour-dates-in-may-2025  Reg ‘ol NewsThe Melvins X Napalm Death- Not only are they touring together come April, but they have just announced a collaboration album titled Savage Imperial Death March, out this Sunday on vinyl. Other media at a later date.https://www.shoxop.com/  SuggestsSpiritbox- No Loss, No Love https://youtu.be/YfKlcLKDkz0?si=q9PUxksVuCsyKLZ8  Gaming/Tech Follow-ups/CorrectionsHelldivers 2 - New update that dropped last week added a new Terminid Strain to tussle with on Fenrir III. “The Predator Hunter is a specialized, evolved strain forged by the Terminids' extended exposure to The Gloom, enhancing their hunting abilities and turning them into even deadlier ambush predators. The Predator Hunter is a specialized, evolved strain forged by the Terminids' extended exposure to The Gloom, enhancing their hunting abilities and turning them into even deadlier ambush predators.”Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves- Adding Chun-Li and Ken later this year.https://youtu.be/h2JEb_ItQYY Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising- Season pass 2 announced.https://youtu.be/kamlq7O3t7Q?si=TuSFpYA12gi-vY9i Fortnite- Next season is called Lawless, and will feature Mortal Kombat characters Sub-Zero and Scorpion. Scorpion will be available for purchase in the store, and Sub-Zero is set to be a standard character in the battle pass. Meaning Sub-Zero will have up to 4 skins. Which has the community speculating as to what those skins will be.https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/fortnite-sub-zero-scorpion-mortal-kombat-skins/  Reg ‘ol NewsMarvel Rivals- The development team has all been laid off from NetEase Games.https://www.resetera.com/threads/marvel-rivals-director-shares-that-he-and-his-team-were-just-laid-off.1112481/ But that isn't stopping the game from moving forward. Human Torch and Thing gameplay was ALSO just released today. That and a new map will be coming Feb 21. Along with a reworking of how in game currency works. Once you have purchased the seasonal Battle Pass, and then accomplished all the goals, you can then use your Chrono Points for in game gold. The conversion ratio has yet to be revealed.https://thedirect.com/article/marvel-rivals-season-1-part-2-patch-notes-human-torch-thing-characters  SuggestsMarvel Rivals Comic Books/Books Reg ‘ol NewsSpider-Man- Marvel Comics has sparked controversy by teasing the possible resurrection of Gwen Stacy, a character whose death in The Night Gwen Stacy Died (1973) remains one of Spider-Man's most defining moments. A newly released teaser image shows a shadowy figure standing over her grave with the tagline "NOTHING IS SACRED," leading to backlash from fans who argue that bringing her back would cheapen the emotional impact of her original demise. While Marvel has yet to confirm details, they have promised more information in the coming week, leaving readers divided over what this could mean for Spider-Man's story.Donny Cates- The creator of Knull is finally returning to the fray after 3 years of turmoil and trouble.“Just wanted to check in with all of you and let you know that your boy is back on the dance floor,” Cates shared on Instagram. “Expect announcements this summer. And then another one after that. What do you think? Anyone want to guess? If you get it right I'll buy your first issue.”  Well, “finally” might be a bit strong. Hulk as a spaceship was a little out there. But at least he is an original voice.https://comicbook.com/comics/news/donny-cates-comic-book-writer-return/ TMNT X Naruto- The "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto" crossover comic series is set to conclude with its fourth issue later this fall. This collaboration between IDW Publishing and Viz Media brings together the Ninja Turtles and Naruto's Team 7 in a shared universe where New York City and the Hidden Leaf Village coexist. The storyline begins with April O'Neil's clandestine meeting with Tsunade, attracting attention from both Naruto's team and the Foot Clan, who believe April possesses valuable information on Baxter Stockman's mutation research. As the series progresses, tensions escalate, leading to an anticipated showdown between Naruto and the Turtles' arch-nemesis, Shredder. Cover artist Jorge Jiménez has unveiled a preview of the final issue's cover, depicting Naruto launching a Rasengan at Shredder, hinting at the climactic battle to come. Written by Caleb Goellner and illustrated by Hendry Prasetya, this fallhttps://comicbook.com/anime/news/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-naruto-crossover-shredder/ Halo: Empty Throne- 2559. It has been a year since the rogue artificial intelligence Cortana seized control of the Domain, an otherworldly dimension housing a vast information network. With an array of Forerunner weapons at her disposal, Cortana set out to enforce an authoritarian peace on the civilizations of the galaxy. But as the United Nations Space Command flagship Infinity prepares to strike against Cortana at Zeta Halo, another plan has also been set in motion.Out now.https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Empty-Throne/Jeremy-Patenaude/Halo/9781668052129  SuggestsInvisible Monstersis a novel by American writer Chuck Palahniuk, published in 1999. It is his third novel to be published, though it was his second written novel (after Insomnia: If You Lived Here, You'd Be Home Already). The novel was originally supposed to be Palahniuk's first novel to be published, but it was rejected by the publisher for being too disturbing. After the success of his novel Fight Club, Invisible Monsters was given a second chance, and a revised version of it was published. TV Shows Follow-ups/CorrectionsHalo- dropped by Paramount+ but picked up by Netflix… at least in other markets. Does this mean it's saved? No just means that Paramount is trying to make money on that stinker. March 1 https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/after-being-dropped-the-lesser-received-xbox-game-turned-tv-show-has-been-picked-up-by-netflix-coming-march-1 Harry Potter- John Lithgow cast as New Dumbledore.https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/harry-potter-dumbledore-john-lithgow-tv-show-cast-concern/ Rings of Power- Season 3 confirmed… but why?? TrailersTwisted Metal S02- https://youtu.be/ptLE35Du2Dc?si=olB6RAZa3Ns-0ptJNo exact date beyond “Summer 2025.” Reg ‘ol NewsRobin Hood- MGM+ announced a new 10 episode series for the franchise. With Sean Bean cast already as the Sheriff Of Nottingham, and Jack Patten as Robin Hood. No official release date but it is expected later this year.https://cosmicbook.news/sean-bean-robin-hood-mgm-plus-series DnD- New series headed to Netflix.Titled Forgotten Realmshttps://deadline.com/2025/02/dungeons-dragons-series-the-forgotten-realms-netflix-shawn-levy-1236288182/  SuggestsTwisted Metal S01 - It may not be perfect, but it was fun. Catch up before season 2 hits and things get crazier.Movies Follow-ups/CorrectionsRed Sonja- The Matilda Lutz starring movie is FINALLY set for a release this year. No specific date just yet.https://deadline.com/2025/02/red-sonja-reboot-release-later-this-year-uk-deal-1236292579 Dune 3- Set for principle photography later this year. https://comicbook.com/movies/news/dune-3-filming-start-summer-2025-zendaya-schedule-issues-dune-messiah/  TrailersThe Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie- https://youtu.be/BtHUWHXfDyUnew Looney Tunes that ISN'T Coyote VS ACME… still looks pretty fun. March 14. And apparently the success of this movie is directly connected to the likelihood of Coyote being released. Reg ‘ol NewsMagic: the Gathering- Legendary Entertainment and Hasbro Entertainment have joined to bring Magic:The Gathering into Live Action. Said to be TV AND Film adaptations in the pipeline. The first project is set to be a movie, but there are series lined up beyond that, assuming everything goes well.Clayface- The movie will follow “a B-movie actor who injects himself with a substance to keep himself relevant only to find out that he can reshape his face and form, becoming a walking piece of clay” The synopsis given by THR has been drawing comparisons to The Substance… oh brother.https://view.email.hollywoodreporter.com/?qs=7497a3ea37771efbc71905bcd94459cefaa96f0dd32abb7bb9b912c1ef7003b23f18daee7af93b7341836964f343221fda027da4b45a3eeaac5e3ad5a210edfd7b0e7e94327a8aa5 SuggestsStar Wars: The Ghost's Apprentice- AI Fanmade movie. That isn't all that good, outside of the incredible showcase of where AI is right now.https://youtu.be/KWlxMC0j498  Rumor Mill Confirmations/RefutationsHe-Man- According to leaked set images, the movie WILL be set (at least in part) on Earth. Oh Boy… Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man. New RumorsX-Men Casting- Margaret Qualley as RogueHunter Schafer as MystiqueElliot Page in an undisclosed roleSadie Sink as Jean Grey Clayface- Now rumored to be ditching the Monster-esque version that is most popular in the comics. Perhaps implying the Basil Karlo version originally created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane?~ALSO~ Rumors of Kick Ass 2's Jeff Waldow and Speak No Evil's James Watkins both being eyed to direct.Still on track for release Sept 11 of 2026.Henry Cavill- Now he is being rumored for Nova over at Marvel… I really think that with his Warhammer 40k stuff he will be FAR too busy to do anything with Marvel.Robert Pattinson- Marvel now rumored to be possibly casting the Twilight actor for a future project…Dune 4- Garreth Edwards (Rogue One) is rumored to be heading up the short list to direct. SPECULATIONThe MCU is about to get NUTS. With Captain America: Brave new world doing better than anticipated, the hype train is gearing up already. BUT SOON we will be getting recasts.  Hot take – NOT rebooting the MCU for the recasts.You can support this show by visiting our merch store, or by leaving us an Apple Podcasts review.

It's time for the Comic Talk Headlines with Generally Nerdy! Ozzy Osbourne's Final Show adds more actsMarvel Rivals controversyNew Halo bookDumbledore cast for new MAX seriesClayface hits the Movie and Rumor sections both pretty hardAnd so much more...Plus, don't forget to subscribe for more fresh content.  Music Follow-ups/CorrectionsNeil Gaiman- Newest accusations have drawn now Ex-Wife Amanda Palmer (Dresden Dolls) into the fray. https://deadline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/neil-gaiman-wisconsin-rape-suit.pdf Primus- New drummer John Hoffman announced. Just some dude from Shreveport LA… sweetThe Sword- 2 new shows added to their “Return” April 10 in Dallas TX. April 11 in San Antonio TX. New Music/VideoRise Against- Nod https://youtu.be/7WkrZi19q4UNew mix sound for the band. Lyrical'ly seems to meander, and at times it feels like is wanders into territory already covered in “Savior.”Underoath- New album announced. “The Place After This One” due out March 28th through MNRK Heavy.Allegaeon- Driftwood https://youtu.be/SrUZdqy7spAas much as I don't WANT to like these guys, they are just really damn good. This might not be as good as their last single, but still better than a lot of newer bands.ALSO ~ new album, The Ossuary Lens, due out April 4th on Metal Blade. Not a concept album per se, but all about different views on death.Peter Murphy- Swoon Feat Trent Reznor https://youtu.be/ZPOgRAQdbtQGoth royalty being great. Not much more to say.Callous Daoboys- Two-Headed Trout/The Demon of Unreality Limping Like a Dog https://youtu.be/wL5UpOrHTBYThe Daoboys getting a little more theatrical with not just their presentation, but also their writing and arrangements.ALSO~ New record, I Don't Want To See You In Heaven, due out May 19.Tetrarch- Never Again (Parasite) https://youtu.be/yLFNdIRwng4Modern Nu-Metal… still just feels rather middle of the road. Tours/FestivalsAttack Attack!- Roadside Rumble Tour. Support from Convictions, Downswing, and Uncured.Starts May 15 in Greensboro, NC through May 22 in Memphis TN.https://www.bandsintown.com/a/186318 Dropkick Murphys X Bad Religion- Summer of Discontent Tour. The Mainliners opening. Will run from July 22 in Spokane, WA through August 17 in Big Flats NY. Tickets go on sale the 20th 10 a.m. local time at www.dropkickmurphys.com  and www.badreligion.com.Black Sabbath- Ozzy's final live performance. July 5th in Birmingham UK. Metallica, GnR, Tool, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Alice in Chains, Halestorm, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Mastodon, Rival Sons. Plus a slew of vocalists and musicians will be lending their talents to the show as well.Summer of ‘99 & Beyond- Creed and Nickelback to headline. Friday July 18 and Saturday July 19 in East Troy WI. Tickets on sale Feb 21.https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0700624A2E3B4183 Russian Circles X Pelican- Touring together starting March 3 at Delmar in St. Louis, MO and wraps up on March 22 at the Fine Line in Minneapolis, MN.ALSO ~ Pelican are releasing their first album in 6 years. Flickering Resonance, due out May 16.https://www.stubhub.com/russian-circles-tickets/performer/493440 Converge- have announced a handful of tour dates around the festivals they have already been announced on.https://jacobbannon.com/blogs/news/converge-announce-u-s-tour-dates-in-may-2025  Reg ‘ol NewsThe Melvins X Napalm Death- Not only are they touring together come April, but they have just announced a collaboration album titled Savage Imperial Death March, out this Sunday on vinyl. Other media at a later date.https://www.shoxop.com/  SuggestsSpiritbox- No Loss, No Love https://youtu.be/YfKlcLKDkz0?si=q9PUxksVuCsyKLZ8  Gaming/Tech Follow-ups/CorrectionsHelldivers 2 - New update that dropped last week added a new Terminid Strain to tussle with on Fenrir III. “The Predator Hunter is a specialized, evolved strain forged by the Terminids' extended exposure to The Gloom, enhancing their hunting abilities and turning them into even deadlier ambush predators. The Predator Hunter is a specialized, evolved strain forged by the Terminids' extended exposure to The Gloom, enhancing their hunting abilities and turning them into even deadlier ambush predators.”Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves- Adding Chun-Li and Ken later this year.https://youtu.be/h2JEb_ItQYY Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising- Season pass 2 announced.https://youtu.be/kamlq7O3t7Q?si=TuSFpYA12gi-vY9i Fortnite- Next season is called Lawless, and will feature Mortal Kombat characters Sub-Zero and Scorpion. Scorpion will be available for purchase in the store, and Sub-Zero is set to be a standard character in the battle pass. Meaning Sub-Zero will have up to 4 skins. Which has the community speculating as to what those skins will be.https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/fortnite-sub-zero-scorpion-mortal-kombat-skins/  Reg ‘ol NewsMarvel Rivals- The development team has all been laid off from NetEase Games.https://www.resetera.com/threads/marvel-rivals-director-shares-that-he-and-his-team-were-just-laid-off.1112481/ But that isn't stopping the game from moving forward. Human Torch and Thing gameplay was ALSO just released today. That and a new map will be coming Feb 21. Along with a reworking of how in game currency works. Once you have purchased the seasonal Battle Pass, and then accomplished all the goals, you can then use your Chrono Points for in game gold. The conversion ratio has yet to be revealed.https://thedirect.com/article/marvel-rivals-season-1-part-2-patch-notes-human-torch-thing-characters  SuggestsMarvel Rivals Comic Books/Books Reg ‘ol NewsSpider-Man- Marvel Comics has sparked controversy by teasing the possible resurrection of Gwen Stacy, a character whose death in The Night Gwen Stacy Died (1973) remains one of Spider-Man's most defining moments. A newly released teaser image shows a shadowy figure standing over her grave with the tagline "NOTHING IS SACRED," leading to backlash from fans who argue that bringing her back would cheapen the emotional impact of her original demise. While Marvel has yet to confirm details, they have promised more information in the coming week, leaving readers divided over what this could mean for Spider-Man's story.Donny Cates- The creator of Knull is finally returning to the fray after 3 years of turmoil and trouble.“Just wanted to check in with all of you and let you know that your boy is back on the dance floor,” Cates shared on Instagram. “Expect announcements this summer. And then another one after that. What do you think? Anyone want to guess? If you get it right I'll buy your first issue.”  Well, “finally” might be a bit strong. Hulk as a spaceship was a little out there. But at least he is an original voice.https://comicbook.com/comics/news/donny-cates-comic-book-writer-return/ TMNT X Naruto- The "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto" crossover comic series is set to conclude with its fourth issue later this fall. This collaboration between IDW Publishing and Viz Media brings together the Ninja Turtles and Naruto's Team 7 in a shared universe where New York City and the Hidden Leaf Village coexist. The storyline begins with April O'Neil's clandestine meeting with Tsunade, attracting attention from both Naruto's team and the Foot Clan, who believe April possesses valuable information on Baxter Stockman's mutation research. As the series progresses, tensions escalate, leading to an anticipated showdown between Naruto and the Turtles' arch-nemesis, Shredder. Cover artist Jorge Jiménez has unveiled a preview of the final issue's cover, depicting Naruto launching a Rasengan at Shredder, hinting at the climactic battle to come. Written by Caleb Goellner and illustrated by Hendry Prasetya, this fallhttps://comicbook.com/anime/news/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-naruto-crossover-shredder/ Halo: Empty Throne- 2559. It has been a year since the rogue artificial intelligence Cortana seized control of the Domain, an otherworldly dimension housing a vast information network. With an array of Forerunner weapons at her disposal, Cortana set out to enforce an authoritarian peace on the civilizations of the galaxy. But as the United Nations Space Command flagship Infinity prepares to strike against Cortana at Zeta Halo, another plan has also been set in motion.Out now.https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Empty-Throne/Jeremy-Patenaude/Halo/9781668052129  SuggestsInvisible Monstersis a novel by American writer Chuck Palahniuk, published in 1999. It is his third novel to be published, though it was his second written novel (after Insomnia: If You Lived Here, You'd Be Home Already). The novel was originally supposed to be Palahniuk's first novel to be published, but it was rejected by the publisher for being too disturbing. After the success of his novel Fight Club, Invisible Monsters was given a second chance, and a revised version of it was published. TV Shows Follow-ups/CorrectionsHalo- dropped by Paramount+ but picked up by Netflix… at least in other markets. Does this mean it's saved? No just means that Paramount is trying to make money on that stinker. March 1 https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/after-being-dropped-the-lesser-received-xbox-game-turned-tv-show-has-been-picked-up-by-netflix-coming-march-1 Harry Potter- John Lithgow cast as New Dumbledore.https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/harry-potter-dumbledore-john-lithgow-tv-show-cast-concern/ Rings of Power- Season 3 confirmed… but why?? TrailersTwisted Metal S02- https://youtu.be/ptLE35Du2Dc?si=olB6RAZa3Ns-0ptJNo exact date beyond “Summer 2025.” Reg ‘ol NewsRobin Hood- MGM+ announced a new 10 episode series for the franchise. With Sean Bean cast already as the Sheriff Of Nottingham, and Jack Patten as Robin Hood. No official release date but it is expected later this year.https://cosmicbook.news/sean-bean-robin-hood-mgm-plus-series DnD- New series headed to Netflix.Titled Forgotten Realmshttps://deadline.com/2025/02/dungeons-dragons-series-the-forgotten-realms-netflix-shawn-levy-1236288182/  SuggestsTwisted Metal S01 - It may not be perfect, but it was fun. Catch up before season 2 hits and things get crazier.Movies Follow-ups/CorrectionsRed Sonja- The Matilda Lutz starring movie is FINALLY set for a release this year. No specific date just yet.https://deadline.com/2025/02/red-sonja-reboot-release-later-this-year-uk-deal-1236292579 Dune 3- Set for principle photography later this year. https://comicbook.com/movies/news/dune-3-filming-start-summer-2025-zendaya-schedule-issues-dune-messiah/  TrailersThe Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie- https://youtu.be/BtHUWHXfDyUnew Looney Tunes that ISN'T Coyote VS ACME… still looks pretty fun. March 14. And apparently the success of this movie is directly connected to the likelihood of Coyote being released. Reg ‘ol NewsMagic: the Gathering- Legendary Entertainment and Hasbro Entertainment have joined to bring Magic:The Gathering into Live Action. Said to be TV AND Film adaptations in the pipeline. The first project is set to be a movie, but there are series lined up beyond that, assuming everything goes well.Clayface- The movie will follow “a B-movie actor who injects himself with a substance to keep himself relevant only to find out that he can reshape his face and form, becoming a walking piece of clay” The synopsis given by THR has been drawing comparisons to The Substance… oh brother.https://view.email.hollywoodreporter.com/?qs=7497a3ea37771efbc71905bcd94459cefaa96f0dd32abb7bb9b912c1ef7003b23f18daee7af93b7341836964f343221fda027da4b45a3eeaac5e3ad5a210edfd7b0e7e94327a8aa5 SuggestsStar Wars: The Ghost's Apprentice- AI Fanmade movie. That isn't all that good, outside of the incredible showcase of where AI is right now.https://youtu.be/KWlxMC0j498  Rumor Mill Confirmations/RefutationsHe-Man- According to leaked set images, the movie WILL be set (at least in part) on Earth. Oh Boy… Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man. New RumorsX-Men Casting- Margaret Qualley as RogueHunter Schafer as MystiqueElliot Page in an undisclosed roleSadie Sink as Jean Grey Clayface- Now rumored to be ditching the Monster-esque version that is most popular in the comics. Perhaps implying the Basil Karlo version originally created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane?~ALSO~ Rumors of Kick Ass 2's Jeff Waldow and Speak No Evil's James Watkins both being eyed to direct.Still on track for release Sept 11 of 2026.Henry Cavill- Now he is being rumored for Nova over at Marvel… I really think that with his Warhammer 40k stuff he will be FAR too busy to do anything with Marvel.Robert Pattinson- Marvel now rumored to be possibly casting the Twilight actor for a future project…Dune 4- Garreth Edwards (Rogue One) is rumored to be heading up the short list to direct. SPECULATIONThe MCU is about to get NUTS. With Captain America: Brave new world doing better than anticipated, the hype train is gearing up already. BUT SOON we will be getting recasts.  Hot take – NOT rebooting the MCU for the recasts.You can support this show by visiting our merch store, or by leaving us an Apple Podcasts review.

In the second leg of my tour in Birmingham (UK), we look at taking practical steps to create a healthy and harmonious family dynamic.

A Rebbetzin, a Priest and a Muslim scholar discuss the problem of Truth in interfaith educationFor easily readable notes on this episode, go to https://shirabatya.substack.com/p/but-which-religion-is-correctThis episode is a real treat: a recording of a panel discussion held at the Limmud Festival in Birmingham UK on 23 December 2024.This is my first post in a while, due to a situation that emerged in Religious Education in Berkshire, which has absorbed almost all of my time in recent months.The new Religion and Worldviews framework has been accompanied by an increasing emphasis on truth-seeking in religious education, as students are encouraged to examine which religious beliefs are more reasonable and look at arguments between competing religious and non-religious “worldviews.”As I worked to tackle this dangerous change in pedagogy, numerous theological questions emerged. My conversations with Father Patrick Morrow developed into an interfaith session. We were honoured to be joined by Muslim scholar Dilwar Hussein, MBE. Bios for all participants are below.Session Description (as in the Limmud Handbook):Judaism does not proselytise, but this is unusual among faiths in Britain. And do we Jews really have no firm beliefs that we wish others would share? Can we teach about our own faiths passionately, without the conversation slipping into persuasion? Can we allow for multiple religious “truths”, and still be rational? What is religious “truth”?The panel includes:* Father Patrick Morrow, a Church of England Priest and Secretary to the Theology Committee of the International Council of Christians and Jews* Dilwar Hussain MBE of the Woolf Institute, University of Cambridge and Chair of New Horizons in British Islam* (me) Dr Shira Batya Lewin Solomons, Rebbetzin of the Jewish Community of Berkshire, and Director of JCoB Education (provider of RE Judaism support to schools across England and Wales)https://www.jcob.org/support_judaism_re.html>BackgroundThis conversation emerged as a product of the ongoing challenge that I have been facing due to the new Religion and Worldviews framework in Religious Education (RE), which is shifting the focus of learning towards truth-seeking and exploration of “big questions”, as opposed to more traditional RE, which prioritised understanding the beliefs and practices of others without making judgments or seeking answers.The new approach to teaching RE seeks to avoid claiming to be able to teach Religions as coherent well-defined traditions, due to a post-modern critique that emphasises the diversity within religious traditions. From this perspective, there are many “Judaisms”, “Islams”, “Christianities” etc. - each individual with their own “personal worldview” based on their own “lived experience” that cannot ever really be fully communicated or understood by others.Teaching has therefore shifted towards developing each child's “personal worldview”, through the exploration of “big questions” and a shift towards philosophy and theology. This involves students exploring and even debating issues such as “Does God exist?” “Where did the universe come from?” “Is religion dangerous?” “What happens after we die?” In the first draft of the new Berkshire RE Syllabus, children were even asked to rank beliefs for their reasonableness.This sort of focus raises major concerns as it had been a rule in RE teaching that we were never meant to ask whose beliefs were right or wrong or make judgments as to whether religious beliefs were reasonable or well founded in arguments. Persuasion and proselytising should have no place in RE, which is about listening, learning, and understanding.When I pushed back at this change in pedagogy, I faced two primary counter-arguments:* There are some matters (ethics, public policy) that relate to religion, where we need to debate, make arguments and reach consensus.* By demanding no persuasion, proselytising, (it is argued that) I am imposing my Jewish or liberal view on others. (Andrew Wright) What if a religion believes in proselyting - what if that is part of their religious expression? Can we really share our faiths without making any truth claims?In my next Substack piece, I will carefully document what has been happening in RE based on our recent experience with the new Pan Berkshire Syllabus. I will look at where this framework came from and at the serious consequences. The discussion here will not address those issues but will focus on the philosophical challenges. I am arguing for RE that is scrupulously free of attempts to persuade, but how do we do that? It's easy enough when teaching Judaism, as we Jews do not seek converts. But what about Christianity and Islam, which traditionally have sought converts? Are we asking Christians and Muslims to be inauthentic?Below is an outline of the contributions of the panellists, with some links to material in case you want to read more. Before reading further, I recommend that you listen to the audio, which is the real event. Note that the notes on Patrick and Dilwar's presentations were written by me and are therefore less detailed.Shira Solomons (Judaism)https://shirabatya.substack.com/I focused on the teachings of two great rabbis: · Joseph Soloveitchik (the Rav) and Rabbi Jonathan SacksRabbi Joseph Ber SoloveitchikRabbi Joseph Ber Soloveitchik = Yosef Dov Soloveitchik (1903-1993) “The Rav”Famous essay: On Interfaith Relationships (1964)Impossibility of interfaith dialogue on theology etc.* Different religions essentially speak different languages. Different categories and “incommensurate frames” for understanding our place in the world.* Because we speak different languages, we each have our own “unique relationship to God… moulded by different historical events”* We cannot understand the “private” elements that express their “individual religious commitment”When we can and should engage.* Role of interfaith is to work together in matters for which our beliefs are the same.* Certain values in common between Jews and Christians such as human beings in the image of God, Imitatio Dei.* We use our common religious language to work together for things like civil rights, morality, fighting poverty, seeking peace. (Remember he is writing this in 1964.)* Secular people will find it difficult to understand our shared religious language. [Like tone-deaf people who cannot understand music.]My evaluation of Soloveitchik* Judaism has a concept na'aseh venish-mah - In order to understand you must do the action first. So yes, it is impossible to understand fully the religious experience of another faith when we do not and should not share in the practice.* Soloveitchik is not saying Judaism has a monopoly on truth.Argument relates to our ability to learn from others who are different.* I ask: How does Soloveitchik know about the beliefs we have in common (or not) with Christians? Surely we found this out by having conversations.* How do we deal with disagreements when they matter? We do need to agree on some things in order to live together? Not addressed by Soloveitchik at all.Jonathan SacksRabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks (1948-2020)Controversial book: Dignity of Difference (2002) (Avoid later editions)All quotes are from the first edition (2002), not the adulterated second edition (2004).First editions are readily available very cheaply on Amazon. The 2nd edition radically altered the core chapter (Exorcising Plato's Ghost pp. 45-66).Gil Student summarises all the changes Sacks made for the 2nd edition here: https://www.torahmusings.com/2007/10/differences-of-dignity/Tower of Babel / Exorcising Plato's Ghost* Yes different religions speak different languages, but this is something to be celebrated. The will of God.* Babbling of the languages of the people building the Tower is something wondrous and good.* Oppressive and totalitarian for everyone to think and speak exactly like each other.Let there be Diversity:* “Religion is the translation of God into a particular language … God has spoken to mankind in many languages: through Judaism to Jews, Christianity to Christians, Islam to Muslims.” (p. 55)* [A core lesson of the Torah is that] “God is God of all humanity, but no single faith is or should be the faith of all humanity.” (p. 55)* Myth that “If I am right, you are wrong”… “you must be converted, cured, and saved” (p. 50)Universalism is dangerous* Sacks is scathing of those who “attempt to impose a man-made unity on divinely created diversity”* Greatest crimes in history come from attempts to impose universalism on the diversity of human beings.* “Babel - the first global project - is the turning point in the biblical narrative. From then on, God will not attempt a universal order again until the end of days.”* [Related to the Talmudic concept of Teiku - pushing off disputes to be resolved at the end of days, acknowledging the limitations of human beings to attain the Truth on certain matters]Particularity / Covenants* Myth that universal morality is morally superior to particular moralities. Criticism of Jews for being parochial, only marrying each other, taking care of our own before others. This is prejudice, chauvinism.* “We are particular and universal, the same and different, human beings as such, but also members of this family, that community, this history, that heritage, our particularity is our window onto universality” (p. 56)* We understand the human experiences of others by having our own particular human experiences.* “… we learn to love humanity by loving specific human beings. There is no short-cut.” (p. 58)Engagement* Not only are there multiple truths out there, but we can learn something by engaging with them. Unlike Soloveitchik, does not want to hide away, avoid understanding the other.* Importance of conversation, as opposed to debate (politics).* “entering into the inner world of someone whose views are opposed to my own” (p. 83)* In a conversation, you don't win or lose. You grow. You learn something as you “know what reality looks like from a different perspective.” (p. 83)Religion and Politics* How do we deal with difficult questions where we need to agree to live together?* We first have those conversations, so that we understand each other.Then political conversations resolve what we actually do as a society together.* Consequence: Need to be very careful how and where such political debates occur, as they may eclipse the conversations that are really necessary, particularly in educational settings.Patrick Morrow (Christianity)Historical tendency of the Church to assumes it possesses all Truth. Vast majority of Christians wish to leave that behind.Christians tend to prefer Sacks over Soloveitchik. The idea of private truth is very foreign to Christianity due to opposition to Gnosticism (esoteric knowledge). Christianity has taught that its teachings are available to everyone.Three-fold typology of approaches to non-Christian faiths (proposed by pluralists):* exclusivism (we alone have the religious good)* inclusivism (we have the religious good fully, and others may share part of it with us)* pluralism (no way to distinguish who has more or less of the religious good; we are all equal)Another approach: Most takes on other faiths are variations on inclusivism. They can tip into exclusivism (one type of error) or into pluralism (another type of error).Mainstream Christian Inclusivism in the Catholic TraditionKarl Rahner was a Jesuit, before, during and after Vatican II. 1961 lecture: “Christianity and the Non-Christian Religions”. Published as pages 115-134 of Theological Investigations Vol 5 (London: Darton, Longman and Todd) Available hereRahner offered four theses. We will look at three:* Christianity is the absolute religion intended for all. This applies only when Christianity enters with existential power into the life of a person or a community. This happens only when a person has a Pentecostal experience. This cannot be seen, and it cannot be forced.* Therefore, it is likely that the other religion in which a person finds himself is legitimate (in God's eyes).* Therefore, a missionary, meeting someone from another faith, should treat them as an anonymous Christian. (God will be working in that person's life. Who is God? For Rahner it is the Trinity. Therefore, the Trinity is present for that person and that person is therefore a Christian.)Catholicism has moved on from here, but this position does mean treating a person from another faith as someone who has their own relationship with God from which one can learn. They may have precisely the teaching that I need right now.[For those who want to read further, Patrick Morrow has written about this issue at length here. Karl Rahner also entered a dialogue with Jewish theologian Pinchas Lapide that included such matters as the Jewish debate about whether Christianity is monotheistic.]Dilwar Hussain (Islam)Importance of humility. Quran teaches people be in awe and wonder of the vastness of Creation and therefore of the Creator.Three main points:1. God has an infinite amount to say to us, so cannot be contained in any finite text.If we believe that all of God's wisdom is contained in the Quran or in any holy text, then we are making God finite. In the view of Islam (with the focus on monotheism), then lends towards idolatry.“If all the seas of the earth were turned into ink and all the trees of the earth were turned into pens, then the wisdom of God would not have been exhausted.”[I shared a laugh here with a fellow Jew in the audience as this is so, so similar to the text in the Jewish prayer Nishmat. “If our mouths were full of song as the sea is with water… we would not be able to sufficiently praise you.”]2. Diversity is created by GodIf diversity is in the world, God intended it to be there. Just like we cannot understand evil, we cannot understand why it is there, but it is there for a reason.“We created you from one soul, and we created you into nations and tribes, that you may come to know each other.”Diversity is a source of wonder and learning. This is part of the Divine intention and part of the human journey.3. How to deal with difference?There are universals. But there will be differences. We will disagree. This happens both within and between religions and across humanity.Some disagreements can be resolved. Others cannot and we leave them to the Day. Right and Wrong in the universal sense is the language of God. We cannot know absolutely so must focus on living in peace rather than who has the right or wrong answers.4. Relevance today / challengesWhy is this such a cause of anxiety for us today? Historically Islam was more inclusive as it saw teachings of Judaism and Christianity as part of its heritage. Today we have too much “brittle religion” because of political conflicts.Religion that is not soft and flexible, and can break. We end up with “brittle, broken religion” (Hamas, Isis etc.).It's not most Muslims, but it is some Muslims and must be acknowledged. A lot of work to do within Islam to reclaim the flexible tradition that is possible.Thanks for reading Heterodox Jewish Woman! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. Go to https://shirabatya.substack.com/https://www.jcob.org/support_judaism_re.html> This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shirabatya.substack.com

CleanTechnica sits down with LandGate CEO & co-founder Yoann Hispa to discuss the past, present, and future of renewable energy technology and data. Yoann Hispa is CEO and co-founder of LandGate, a leading ClimateTech and PropTech company. Prior to that, he was Executive Director of Engineering at Ruspetro, and led the engineering and drilling operations for a Private Equity's mineral acquisitions which successfully divested for a 3x. Yoann has 19 years of experience in the energy and carbon industry in various technical and leadership roles. He has been an Instructor of Energy Land Resources at UT-Austin and at the Realtors Land Institute for several years. Yoann holds an Executive MBA from the University of Colorado, an MS in Geosystems Eng. from the University of Texas at Austin, an MS in Geomechanics from the University of Birmingham (UK), an MSc in Civil Engineering from ESTP (Paris, France), and a BS equivalent in Math/Physics.

CleanTechnica sits down with LandGate CEO & co-founder Yoann Hispa to discuss the past, present, and future of renewable energy technology and data. Yoann Hispa is CEO and co-founder of LandGate, a leading ClimateTech and PropTech company. Prior to that, he was Executive Director of Engineering at Ruspetro, and led the engineering and drilling operations for a Private Equity's mineral acquisitions which successfully divested for a 3x. Yoann has 19 years of experience in the energy and carbon industry in various technical and leadership roles. He has been an Instructor of Energy Land Resources at UT-Austin and at the Realtors Land Institute for several years. Yoann holds an Executive MBA from the University of Colorado, an MS in Geosystems Eng. from the University of Texas at Austin, an MS in Geomechanics from the University of Birmingham (UK), an MSc in Civil Engineering from ESTP (Paris, France), and a BS equivalent in Math/Physics.

In this episode recorded live at the IPS Conference in Birmingham UK in September 2024, Martin talks to Claire Fitzsimons, Senior Infection Prevention and Control Practitioner at the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service Health and Social Care Trust. We discuss a poster that she presented at the conference that looked as ways of reducing glove use in the ambulance service through a range of improvement methodologies. A copy of the poster can be found here

In this episode recorded live at the IPS Conference in Birmingham UK in September 2024, Martin talks to Claire Fitzsimons, Senior Infection Prevention and Control Practitioner at the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service Health and Social Care Trust. We discuss a poster that she presented at the conference that looked as ways of reducing glove use in the ambulance service through a range of improvement methodologies. A copy of the poster can be found here

In this episode, Father Lorenzo and Anto discuss the characteristics and needs of Generation Z and the emerging Generation Alpha. They explore the age range and defining events of Gen Z, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. They highlight the importance of community for Gen Z and the opportunity for the church to provide a third space where young people can find belonging. They also discuss the challenges of the church's toxic brand and the need to reframe the church's image as a community-centered and relevant institution. Finally, they touch on the potential of mysticism and experiential spirituality to engage young people. Antonin Ficatier has a portfolio career at the crossroad of entrepreneurship, youth culture, and academic work. He co-founded Chinese Institute, today one of France's leading training centers dedicated to teaching Chinese. Anto went to Business School in France, studied Economics in China, and completed a Master's Degree in Christian Education at Princeton Seminary. He worked for 6 years with youth and young adults in Hong Kong and England, before joining YPulse (the world's best youth intelligence company) as the Director for Western Europe in 2022. His hope is to one day finish his Ph.D. in experimental theology that he started a while back at the University of Birmingham (UK). Originally from France, Anto lives in south London with his wife Jess and their baby Leo.

Birmingham, United Kingdom, August 18, 2024: Mukti Parv -Discourse by Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj

Birmingham, United Kingdom, August 18, 2024: Mukti Parv -Discourse by Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj

Dr. Jamie Dew is the president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Leavell College. Previously, he was the Vice President for Undergraduate Studies and Distance Learning at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds an MDiv and PhD in theological studies from SEBTS, as well as a PhD in philosophy of mind and philosophy of religion from the University of Birmingham (UK). He is married to Tara, and they have two sets of twins.

Dr. Jamie Dew is the president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Leavell College. Previously, he was the Vice President for Undergraduate Studies and Distance Learning at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds an MDiv and PhD in theological studies from SEBTS, as well as a PhD in philosophy of mind and philosophy of religion from the University of Birmingham (UK). He is married to Tara, and they have two sets of twins.

Alain Zemkoho is an associate professor in operational research at the School of Mathematical Sciences within the University of Southampton where he is affiliated to the OR Group and CORMSIS. Prior to joining Southampton, he was a research fellow at the University of Birmingham (UK) and had previously worked as a research associate at the Technical University of Freiberg (Germany). He is an Alexander von Humboldt Experienced Fellow for 2024-2026, a Fellow of the Institute of Mathematics & Its Applications, a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and had been a Fellow of the Alan Turing Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence for 2019-2023. Alain's research interests revolve around continuous optimization with specific focus on bilevel optimization, stability analysis for parametric optimization, and machine learning modelling, theory, and numerical methods. He has published 40 papers around these topics and has secured grants totalling close to £2M in full economic cost (as PI or Co-I) to fund some of his research. Alain also serves as a member of the EPSRC Peer Review College and of the OR Society Research Committee.

The Journey On Podcast and Summits have become something of a legend in conscious equestrian circles - and rightly so. Anyone who has tuned in to the vast array of talent that Warwick features in his in depth interviews ends up walking away with insights into themselves as well as into horses and how they interact with and assist humans, both in the practical and mental/spiritual realms. To those still new to Warwick, an Australian-born champion in the Western discipline of Reining, he made it to the World Equestrian Games before a pro-fund relationship with a particular horse changed his whole outlook on the horse and human relationship. What followed was a journey of self discovery that has led to exploration of therapy, neuroscience, psychadelics and shamanism as well as ever deeper dives into the horse and human interface. Recently returning from his latest challenge, the 500 mile Gaucho Derby in Argentina, Warwick tells us how it bumped him up against some of his own limitations - and how he got through to the other side.  Also we look at the upcoming Journey On Summit in Birmingham UK, happening August 1-4 2024, who the fascinating array of speakers are and what they have taught him so far. So, for those equine Assisted peeps out there, sit back and enjoy the listen as Warwick guides us further into how and why the outside of a horse is so good for the inside of a human.Register to the UK Summit now: https://summit.warwickschiller.com/?aff=RupertIsaacsonFind Warwick's Programs online: Horse Training Website: https://go.warwickschiller.com/membership-signupPodcast: https://warwickschiller.com/podcast/Journey on Summits 2024 in UK and USA https://summit.warwickschiller.com/?aff=RupertIsaacsonFind our other shows and programs:https://rupertisaacson.com

Greg Nolan of Birmingham UK is an accredited psychotherapist who has been working in Mental Health Services for nearly two decades. His practice is informed by a Christian perspective of the psyche (soul) and our relationship with the world around us. His core premise is that our intellect and free will govern our passions as enumerated by St. Thomas Aquinas. Greg does a great job of explaining the Thomistic understanding of the spirit, soul, and body composite, in a way that anyone with an open mind can understand. Greg Nolan has his course on Overcoming Depression with Catholic CBT available online through his website that is christian-psychotherapy.co.uk and it is available to anyone who is struggling with depression and is open to the Christian concept of the human soul. The difference between the soul and the spirit... https://youtu.be/R2_t7nW6MZQ?si=xUuErdqr5R3Djb8v https://youtu.be/60bb3n8YV44?si=-Unw-xM1E8c6gafm  

In todays episode  l share my day away from the kitchen to attend  the Theo  Paphitis Small business Sunday event which was held in Birmingham UK.#SBS is a small business network that has over 4000 businesses' within the network . Its a day in which i always leave feeling inspired and motivated and eager to make little changes within my business.I also speak about my month in business and the usual what's trending within the world of cake.If you have a question or feedback about this episode you can message me here. Thank you for listeningYou can connect with me via:Instagram: Adventures in KakelandBlog: Adventures in kakelandPublished books for hobbyist and cake business owners. A food management system: for small home based food businesses Bake -cover-finish -deliver: Weekly baking planner Cake business order form book Blank recipe book My Business social media channelsInstagram: Kake and CupkakeryFacebook: Kake and CupkakeryWebsite: https://www.kakeandcupkakery.co.uk/

Episode 164: Amanda returns to the show this week to discuss various happenings in her life, including her newly released book, "The Wordsmiths." (Note: Joe was not able to join us due to a family event.) Amanda also discusses her trip to Birmingham (UK) and we end on a quick game of words, so to speak.  

Did you know that Shakespeare was really into astrology? We sure didn't, which is why we're joined by Kelly Downes, who gives us a great discussion to bookend our Supernatural Shakespeare series!    Content Warning: This episode contains conversations about or mentions of death, assassination, religious persecution, suicide, sex, fire, poisoning, war and battle.    Guest Kelly Downes (she/her) is a theatre maker from Syracuse, NY, with strong ties to Boston, MA, currently living in Birmingham UK. She earned a BFA in Theatre & Performance from Emerson College, and a Masters in Shakespeare & Creativity from the Shakespeare Institute at University of Birmingham. Kelly is currently working to increase accessibility to arts and culture in Birmingham as a fundraiser at Midlands Arts Centre. She would love to connect with more like minded creatives on both sides of the Atlantic. If you are interested in queer Shakespeare; using storytelling to reconnect with the natural world; and devising new work inspired by classics, say hello!   Housekeeping - Recommendation: This week, Julia recommends audiobooks! From Libby.  - Books: Check out our previous book recommendations, guests' books, and more at https://spiritspodcast.com/books - Call to Action: Check out Games and Feelings!   Sponsors - Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen box for artisanal bread. For a limited time, you can get $30 off the first box - PLUS free Croissants in every box - when you go to https://wildgrain.com/Spirits to start your subscription. - Ravensburger jigsaw puzzles, available in your local game store or on Amazon today! - BetterHelp is an online therapy service. Get 10% off your first month at https://betterhelp.com/spirits   Find Us Online - Website & Transcripts: https://spiritspodcast.com - Patreon: https://patreon.com/spiritspodcast - Merch: https://spiritspodcast.com/merch - Instagram: https://instagram.com/spiritspodcast - Twitter: https://twitter.com/spiritspodcast - Tumblr: https://spiritspodcast.tumblr.com - Goodreads: https://goodreads.com/group/show/205387   Cast & Crew - Co-Hosts: Julia Schifini and Amanda McLoughlin - Editor: Bren Frederick - Music: Brandon Grugle, based on "Danger Storm" by Kevin MacLeod - Artwork: Allyson Wakeman - Multitude: https://multitude.productions   About Us Spirits is a boozy podcast about mythology, legends, and folklore. Every episode, co-hosts Julia and Amanda mix a drink and discuss a new story or character from a wide range of places, eras, and cultures. Learn brand-new stories and enjoy retellings of your favorite myths, served over ice every week, on Spirits.

There is a powerful connection between grief and the physical response that can occur within our body. In fact, grief can show up in a variety of ways in our body. Our body is communicating too us and in this episode we explore the impact of grief on our immune system and how to alleviate physical symptoms through self-care practices. Listen as I talk about: The physical toll of grief on your body and how it can manifest as symptoms The impact of the stress response and how it affects your overall health Practical tips and exercises to help you manage and alleviate grief Ways to activate your parasympathetic nervous system and find relief Resources: Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising' https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Grief. It doesn't follow a linear path. In fact, it can often be unpredictable. There is no making sense of grief. It is a journey of rebuilding life after loss, one day at a time. Explore the importance of acknowledging your feelings, finding support, and rediscovering joy amidst grief's challenges in today's episode. Listen as I talk about: Learning to find happiness after loss Rebuilding your life after loss and the journey that will require patience and support Getting past the guilt to allow joy back into your life Reconnecting with others, rebuilding connections, and discovering who you are now Resources: Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising' https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Have you ever wondered how to find purpose and joy again after losing your loved one? If you've ever felt lost, overwhelmed, or uncertainty about creating a meaningful life after loss, listen as I reveal the path to rediscovering yourself. Explore practical steps to help you navigate this difficult journey on today's episode. Listen as I share: How rebuilding life after loss is a gradual and evolving process, and why that's okay. Discovering your purpose and the importance of self- discovery. Trying new things and connecting with a supportive community. Why finding joy and laughter in your healing journey and allowing yourself to have fun is so important. Setting goals to give your life direction and motivation. The value of leaning on others for support and asking for help when needed. Navigating setbacks and challenges with resilience. Resources: Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising' https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Today's second episode of Fighting Terror's new series will shed light on the concept of blasphemy in Islamic theology and its significance within the religion. Lucinda speaks with Professor Jocelyne Cesari who will offer insights into the concept of blasphemy and its historical roots and how some Islamist extremist groups use blasphemy to further their agendas and mobilise followers, as well as the implications for societal cohesion. Professor Jocelyne Cesari holds the Chair of Religion and Politics at the University of Birmingham (UK) and is a Senior Fellow at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University. She has written extensively on Islam in Europe, focusing on issues of integration, radicalisation, and religious freedom. 

How do you navigate your way through grief after the loss of a loved one? Grief is a natural part of the healing and it can be a challenging part of the journey. Discover how to build a healthy relationship with grief and find ways to express and release the emotions that accompany loss. Listen as I talk about: How grief is multifaceted and can impact every aspect of life Allowing yourself to feel and express your emotions, even when it feels uncomfortable Finding healthy coping mechanisms and support networks to help you navigate through grief How grief can be a transformative experience, revealing aspects of yourself and your capabilities that you may not have known existed Why suppressing or avoiding your emotions can lead to long-term challenges Resources: Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising' https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Glimmers, tiny micro moments of joy that offer a sense of calm and inner peace. Did you know that glimmers can be a powerful source of support in your grieving journey? Join me as I explore what glimmers are, why they matter, and how they can help you navigate through grief. We will be taking time to notice and appreciate the glimmers as part of your path to healing. Listen as I talk about: Seeking out these small moments of joy, even in the midst of profound grief How glimmers activate your parasympathetic nervous system to help you feel calm & safe when grief triggers your stress response Allowing joy and pain to coexist and why it's important to acknowledge both aspects of your own experience with grief Practical ways to seek out and nurture glimmers to help heal and build resilience Resources: Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song Finding Hope In Widowhood - Twelve month Programme information. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/finding-hope-in-widowhood Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising' https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

When we are grieving sometimes we forget to be kind to ourselves. If we are to become resilient for ourselves and our loved ones, we must first start with nurturing the relationship with yourself. In this episode, I invite you to slow down, to lie in the stillness and quiet where there is no pressure and no expectation. Listen as I talk about: Listening to your body to tune in to your physical and emotional needs during times of grief Understanding the delicate balance between setting goals for yourself and understanding when it's time to slow down, take a moment & reflect Allowing space for self-kindness and being ok with your journey being messy and imperfect as you learn and make new discoveries The power of your words and how the words and phrases you use can shape your reality Reframing negative self-talk into empowering affirmations to support you in your healing journey Resources: Awakening Hope - FREE four day event from 11th - 14th September. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/awakeninghope Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song Finding Hope In Widowhood - Twelve month Programme information. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/finding-hope-in-widowhood Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising' https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Seven years can feel like a lifetime when you are a widow. When you lose your life partner, one chapter closes and another chapter opens with new experiences, lots of growth and moments of grieving in between. Join Karen as she shares her experiences and guidance on navigating through the complex emotions and discoveries that come with widowhood. Listen as we talk about: Taking time to reflect on your achievements and allowing yourself the space for personal growth and to find peace and love. Reflecting on what life would be like if your partner was still alive The reality of ongoing grief years after your loved one has passed How to start listening to your body, ask questions and wait for the answer How to release the feeling of loss Resources: Awakening Hope - FREE four day event from 11th - 14th September. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/awakeninghope Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song Finding Hope In Widowhood - Twelve month Programme information. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/finding-hope-in-widowhood Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising' https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Join Karen for season 3 of The Widow Podcast as she shares the value in receiving support and guidance during widowhood. From retreats, The Widows Choir to our 12 month programme, Finding Hope in Widowhood, discover what becomes possible when you find your community of support. Be inspired and discover how you can reclaim the next steps in life through your own personal development journey in finding hope. In this episode, you will hear: Why community is the foundation for moving trough grief and finding hope in widowhood. How resilience, personal growth & development can help heal and rebuild your life after loss. How Awakening Hope is the best way to take that first step into resilience. Resources: Awakening Hope - FREE four day event from 11th - 14th September. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/awakeninghope Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song Finding Hope In Widowhood - Twelve month Programme information. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/finding-hope-in-widowhood Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising' https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Waffle On about Theatre of Blood. Hello and welocme to Part 8 of 12 celebrating 1973 with this wonderful Vincent Price movie Theatre of Blood. Its a cracker of a fim, full of fun, bit of gore and of course Vincent Prices excellent voice. As normal you can download our show from your podcast apps we are on nearly all of them these days, or download it from Podbean.  Please do share our little show, every bit of promotion helps and if you are in Birmingham UK on Saturday 23rd September from 1pm to 7pm and fancy meeting the lads for some laughs come and join us at Cherry Reds, its a five minute walk from New St Station.   

Al Roxburgh and Jenny Sinclair talk with Mary Publicover and Barry Jung about their experiences of the unraveling in their local communities and explore their stories about how genuine community is being formed where they live. Mary lives in Birmingham (UK) where she is deeply involved with Rowheath Pavilion Church, Bournville. With several others, she's established and co-hosts a Place of Welcome. Mary is a Companion of the Northumbria Community and was managing editor for ten years at the Journal of Missional Practice. Barry is a member of Granville Chapel, an established congregation in a central part of Vancouver (Canada). Several years ago, as a layperson, Barry realized there was little connection between his Christian life and the neighbourhood in which he lives. He began some small experiments in being with the people of his community. Out of these experiments came a whole new understanding of Christian life beyond going to church.-Links-For Alan J Roxburgh:http://alanroxburgh.com/abouthttps://www.themissionalnetwork.com/author/alan-roxburgh/https://journalofmissionalpractice.com/alan-roxburghTwitter: https://twitter.com/alanjroxburghlang=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/alan.roxburgh.127/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecommonsnetworkJoining God in the Great Unraveling https://www.amazon.ca/Joining-God-Great-Unraveling-Learned/dp/1725288508/ref=sr_1_Leadership,God's Agency and Disruptionshttps://www.amazon.ca/Leadership-Gods-Agency-Disruptions-Confronting/dp/1725271745/refJoining God, Remaking Church, Changing the World: The New Shape of the Church in Our Timehttps://www.amazon.ca/Joining-Remaking-Church-Changing-World/dp/0819232114/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2NHGW8KB7L0SQ&keywords=Alan+J+Roxburgh&qid=1687098960&s=books&sprefix=alan+j+roxburgh%2Cstripbooks%2C130&sr=1-3For Jenny Sinclair:Website: https://togetherforthecommongood.co.uk/from-jenny-sinclairLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-sinclair-0589783b/Twitter: https://twitter.com/T4CGFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TogetherForTheCommonGoodUKInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/t4cg_insta/For Mary Publicover:https://www.pavilionchurch.org.uk/https://www.northumbriacommunity.org/https://www.placesofwelcome.org.uk/https://togetherforthecommongood.co.uk/stories/pavilion-shaping-a-community-of-hopeFor Barry Jung:https://www.instagram.com/cambiecommons/?igshid=MmIzYWVlNDQ5Yg%3D%3D Get full access to Leaving Egypt at leavingegyptpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Hello folks, Russ here, with a quick reminder that Jess, Peter and I will be at the UK Games Expo in Birmingham UK this weekend. You can find us on stand 1-835 in Hall 1. And, even better, you can join us for a live recording of the podcast on Friday in the Dice room at 3.30pm. There's a map at the link below! https://www.enworld.org/threads/see-you-at-uk-games-expo.698018/

Angel McKissic is a daughter, mother, partner, student, organizer, and advocate for the non-human, living world.  She is encouraged, challenged, and nourished by her children, community, and members of the MDRJN. Angel is a psychotherapist by training and is currently completing a PhD in gender and sexuality at the University of Birmingham (UK). She believes in decentralized, intergenerational, community-based power as foundational to global liberation.  Metro Detroit Restorative Justice NetworkSend us feedback at media@amplifyrj.comJoin our Mighty Networks platform to connect with other people doing this work!Rep Amplify RJ Merch You can connect with Amplify RJ:Email list, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Website, Reading list, YouTube, and TikTok!SUPPORT by sharing this podcast, leaving a rating or review, or make a tax-deductible DONATION to help us sustain and grow this movementSupport the show

What happens when jobs in academia are scarce, and few of the descriptions of jobs outside academia seem like a fit? How can graduates find the right job for them, whether it's inside academia or far afield? This episode explores: Ways to explain your skills and expertise so an employer sees you as a good match for them. Tips for reframing how graduate students talk about themselves and their research. How advisors can encourage graduates to explore a wider range of jobs. A discussion of the book chapter “Beyond the Data: Navigating the Struggles of Post-PhD Employability,” in The Sage Handbook of Graduate Employability. Our guest is: Dr. Holly Prescott, who is a career guidance practitioner specializing in working with postgraduate researchers (graduate students/ PhDs). She completed a PhD in Literature and Cultural Geography at the University of Birmingham (UK) in 2011. Since then, she has gained ten years' experience in postgraduate student recruitment, admissions, and careers support. Holly also holds a PGDip (QCG) in Career Guidance from Coventry University (UK) and the Career Development Institute, and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She is currently the Careers Adviser for Postgraduate Researchers at the University of Birmingham (UK). Holly is particularly passionate about developing Postgraduate Researchers' awareness of career routes beyond and adjacent to academic research, helping them to make transitions into meaningful careers. This led her to found the PhD careers blog ‘PostGradual' (www.phd-careers.co.uk). Holly lives with a rare autoimmune eye condition called AZOOR which causes visual field defects, and outside of work she volunteers for the British sight loss charity RNIB. She is also Assistant Artistic Director of Ottisdotter Theatre Company based in London. She is the author of “Beyond the Data: Navigating the Struggles of Post-PhD Employability,” in The Sage Handbook of Graduate Employability. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, a historian of women and gender. Listeners to this episode may also be interested in: The Employability Journal, by Barbara Bassot Leaving Academia: A Practical Guide, by Christopher L. Caterine Candid Advice for New Faculty Members, by Marybeth Gasman Putting the Humanities PhD to Work: Thriving in and beyond the Classroom, by Katina Rogers Going Alt-Ac: A Guide to Alternative Academic Careers, by Kathryn Linder, Keven Kelly, and Thomas Tobin The Connected PhD podcast episode, part one Academic Life podcast episode on Hope for the Humanities PhD Academic Life podcast on Leaving Academia Welcome to The Academic Life! Join us here each week, to learn from experts inside and outside the academy, and embrace the broad definition of what it means to lead an academic life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

What happens when jobs in academia are scarce, and few of the descriptions of jobs outside academia seem like a fit? How can graduates find the right job for them, whether it's inside academia or far afield? This episode explores: Ways to explain your skills and expertise so an employer sees you as a good match for them. Tips for reframing how graduate students talk about themselves and their research. How advisors can encourage graduates to explore a wider range of jobs. A discussion of the book chapter “Beyond the Data: Navigating the Struggles of Post-PhD Employability,” in The Sage Handbook of Graduate Employability. Our guest is: Dr. Holly Prescott, who is a career guidance practitioner specializing in working with postgraduate researchers (graduate students/ PhDs). She completed a PhD in Literature and Cultural Geography at the University of Birmingham (UK) in 2011. Since then, she has gained ten years' experience in postgraduate student recruitment, admissions, and careers support. Holly also holds a PGDip (QCG) in Career Guidance from Coventry University (UK) and the Career Development Institute, and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She is currently the Careers Adviser for Postgraduate Researchers at the University of Birmingham (UK). Holly is particularly passionate about developing Postgraduate Researchers' awareness of career routes beyond and adjacent to academic research, helping them to make transitions into meaningful careers. This led her to found the PhD careers blog ‘PostGradual' (www.phd-careers.co.uk). Holly lives with a rare autoimmune eye condition called AZOOR which causes visual field defects, and outside of work she volunteers for the British sight loss charity RNIB. She is also Assistant Artistic Director of Ottisdotter Theatre Company based in London. She is the author of “Beyond the Data: Navigating the Struggles of Post-PhD Employability,” in The Sage Handbook of Graduate Employability. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, a historian of women and gender. Listeners to this episode may also be interested in: The Employability Journal, by Barbara Bassot Leaving Academia: A Practical Guide, by Christopher L. Caterine Candid Advice for New Faculty Members, by Marybeth Gasman Putting the Humanities PhD to Work: Thriving in and beyond the Classroom, by Katina Rogers Going Alt-Ac: A Guide to Alternative Academic Careers, by Kathryn Linder, Keven Kelly, and Thomas Tobin The Connected PhD podcast episode, part one Academic Life podcast episode on Hope for the Humanities PhD Academic Life podcast on Leaving Academia Welcome to The Academic Life! Join us here each week, to learn from experts inside and outside the academy, and embrace the broad definition of what it means to lead an academic life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/academic-life

What happens when jobs in academia are scarce, and few of the descriptions of jobs outside academia seem like a fit? How can graduates find the right job for them, whether it's inside academia or far afield? This episode explores: Ways to explain your skills and expertise so an employer sees you as a good match for them. Tips for reframing how graduate students talk about themselves and their research. How advisors can encourage graduates to explore a wider range of jobs. A discussion of the book chapter “Beyond the Data: Navigating the Struggles of Post-PhD Employability,” in The Sage Handbook of Graduate Employability. Our guest is: Dr. Holly Prescott, who is a career guidance practitioner specializing in working with postgraduate researchers (graduate students/ PhDs). She completed a PhD in Literature and Cultural Geography at the University of Birmingham (UK) in 2011. Since then, she has gained ten years' experience in postgraduate student recruitment, admissions, and careers support. Holly also holds a PGDip (QCG) in Career Guidance from Coventry University (UK) and the Career Development Institute, and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She is currently the Careers Adviser for Postgraduate Researchers at the University of Birmingham (UK). Holly is particularly passionate about developing Postgraduate Researchers' awareness of career routes beyond and adjacent to academic research, helping them to make transitions into meaningful careers. This led her to found the PhD careers blog ‘PostGradual' (www.phd-careers.co.uk). Holly lives with a rare autoimmune eye condition called AZOOR which causes visual field defects, and outside of work she volunteers for the British sight loss charity RNIB. She is also Assistant Artistic Director of Ottisdotter Theatre Company based in London. She is the author of “Beyond the Data: Navigating the Struggles of Post-PhD Employability,” in The Sage Handbook of Graduate Employability. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, a historian of women and gender. Listeners to this episode may also be interested in: The Employability Journal, by Barbara Bassot Leaving Academia: A Practical Guide, by Christopher L. Caterine Candid Advice for New Faculty Members, by Marybeth Gasman Putting the Humanities PhD to Work: Thriving in and beyond the Classroom, by Katina Rogers Going Alt-Ac: A Guide to Alternative Academic Careers, by Kathryn Linder, Keven Kelly, and Thomas Tobin The Connected PhD podcast episode, part one Academic Life podcast episode on Hope for the Humanities PhD Academic Life podcast on Leaving Academia Welcome to The Academic Life! Join us here each week, to learn from experts inside and outside the academy, and embrace the broad definition of what it means to lead an academic life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/education

We explore my Lawn Care journey here in Birmingham UK..... SPONSORED BY https://www.instagram.com/supremeoftheuk/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/cfr_news/?hl=en --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cfr-network/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cfr-network/support

Higher Ed AV PodcastEpisode 195Mike Pedersen welcomes Caroline Pepper, vice-chair of SCHOMS and learning spaces manager at the University of Birmingham UK, live from the Influencer's Lounge on the show floor at ISE 2023. They discuss her experience and how it impacts higher ed.Learn more about SCHOMS:Website: https://www.schoms.ac.ukTwitter: https://twitter.com/SCHOMSinfoConnect with Caroline Pepper:Learning Space Manager, University of Birmingham UKVice-Chair, SCHOMSConnect with Mike Pedersen:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-pedersen-cts-d-cts-i-7477191/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ped1971

Birmingham UK drummer Mark Williams (The Jacobites) joins us this week to discuss 'Strawberries', the fifth studio album - and final one featuring their classic late-70s line-up of Vanian, Sensible, Gray and Scabies - by British punk Gods The Damned. It's a fantastic album by one of Rob's all-time favorite bands, so expect some mild gushing ahead... Songs featured in this episode: I Had Too Much To Dream Last Night - The Damned (Live at Woolwich Coronet, 1985); Don't You Ever Leave Me - The Jacobites; Happy Talk, Wot - Captain Sensible; I Advance Masked - Andy Summers and Robert Fripp; Fun Factory, Ignite - The Damned; Genetix - The Stranglers; Generals, Stranger On The Town, Dozen Girls, The Dog, Gun Fury (of Riot Forces), Pleasure And The Pain, Life Goes On - The Damned; Come As You Are - Nirvana; Eighties - Killing Joke; Bad Time For Bonzo - The Damned; We've Got A Bigger Problem Now - Dead Kennedys; Bonzo Goes To Bitburg - Ramones; Disco Man, Citadel, Billy Bad Breaks, Under The Floor Again, Don't Bother Me - The Damned; Crossroads Theme - Tony Hatch; Life Goes On - Young Fresh Fellows

General David H. Petraeus (US Army, Ret.) is a Partner in the global investment firm KKR and Chairman of the KKR Global Institute, which he established in mid-2013. He is also a member of the boards of Optiv and OneStream, a Strategic Advisor for Semperis, the Chairman of the International Advisory Board for Advanced Navigation, a personal venture investor, engaged in various academic endeavors, and co-author with British historian and biographer Andrew Roberts of the forthcoming book, Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine.Prior to joining KKR, General Petraeus served over 37 years in the U.S. military, culminating his career with six consecutive commands as a general officer, five of which were in combat, including command of the Surge in Iraq, command of U.S. Central Command, and command of Coalition Forces in Afghanistan. Following retirement from the military, and after confirmation by the Senate in a vote of 94-0, he served as the Director of the CIA during a period of significant achievements in the war on terror. General Petraeus graduated with distinction from the US Military Academy and later earned a Ph.D. from Princeton University. He is the only individual to have been the top graduate of both the year-long Command and General Staff College Course and the demanding US Army Ranger School. He has held academic appointments with the US Military Academy, the University of Southern California, Harvard, Georgetown, and the City University of New York Honors College, and he is currently a Senior Fellow and Lecturer at Yale, an Honorary Professor at the University of Birmingham (UK), a member of the Trilateral Commission and the Aspen Strategy Group, Co-Chairman of the Global Advisory Council of the Woodrow Wilson Center, Senior Vice President of the Royal United Services Institute, and an Executive Advisory Board Member of World.Minds.Over the past two decades, General Petraeus has been named one of America's 25 Best Leaders by U.S. News and World Report, a runner-up for Time magazine's Person of the Year, the Daily Telegraph Man of the Year, twice a Time 100 selectee, Princeton University's Madison Medalist, Prospect Magazine's Public Intellectual of the Year, three times one of Foreign Policy magazine's top 100 public intellectuals, and a LinkedIn Top Voice. General Petraeus has earned numerous awards and decorations, including four Defense Distinguished Service Medals, the Secretary of State's Distinguished Service Award, the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, two NATO Meritorious Service Medals, the Combat Action Badge, Master Parachutist Wings, and the Ranger Tab. He has also been decorated by 14 foreign countries and sanctioned by Russia, and he is believed to be the only person who, while in uniform, threw out the first pitch of a baseball World Series Game and did the coin toss at a Super Bowl. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the 6th December Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, director of anti-abortion group March for Life UK, was arrested after being accused of violating the council's 'buffer zone' which bans protest nearby. Isabel is now due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court on February 2 charged with four counts of failing to comply with a Public Space Protection Order. The order which was introduced on 7th September making it illegal to protest by engaging in act of approval or disapproval, including prayer and protest in a buffer zone around the clinic on Station Road, Kings Norton, Birmingham UK. SPONSORED BY https://www.instagram.com/supremeoftheuk/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/cfr_news/?hl=en https://www.tiktok.com/@cfrnetwork https://rumble.com/user/CFRNetwork --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cfr-network/support

In this podcast, Maddy talks to Uzo Ehiogu, a physiotherapist, lecturer and strength and conditioning coach, about lower limb injuries in climbing. With an increasing amount of information about injuries in climbing, we find ourselves swimming in content focused on the upper body (shoulders, elbows, fingers). This is understandable given the nature of climbing, however, it can lead us to neglect the lower body when it comes to understanding injuries and strength development. The lower body plays a huge role in tension in climbing and in this podcast Uzo discusses:The common lower limb injuries in climbingThe mechanisms of injury in the lower body when climbingDifferences between approaching acute and chronic injuriesHow to approach rehabilitation back to full strengthDifferences between lower limb injuries in climbing compared to other sports such as footballMethods for developing strength for heel hooks after injury (or before!)Uzo is the lead clinician at Inside Edge Physiotherapy,  a physiotherapy clinic for climbers based in Birmingham (UK) at the Depot Climbing Centre: https://www.insideedgephysio.com.Uzo is also an author and co-author of book chapters in The Shoulder Theory and Practice (High performance rehabilitation for the climbing athlete),  and Climbing Medicine - A practical guide  (Chapter 21 Injury prevention, Chapter 20 Climbing rehabilitation). And if you enjoyed those reads, then also take a look at his peer reviewed journals on climbing injuries and speed climbing training: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33189522/  https://journals.lww.com/nsca-scj/Abstract/9900/Strength_and_Conditioning_Considerations_for_Speed.40.aspx.The Lattice jingle is brought to you by Devin Dabney, music producer of the outdoor industry who also hosts the American Climbing Project.

Paul and Sally Nash live in Birmingham UK and married in 1986. They are both ordained Anglicans, both Myers Briggs Type Indicator Practitioners (although opposite types), both support London football teams (Sally Spurs and Paul Chelsea) both play golf and have worked with and for each other in some capacity for much of the time they have known each other.

Vaishali Dialani is a Customer Experience Analyst at Konabos.  In this episode, Vaishali talks about India, growing up in Dubai, family, college abroad in Birmingham (UK), customer experience, hobbies and interests, and so much more!

Video:   CBS New Report – The Unvaxed Want There Jobs Back  (1:54) Fired Pediatric ICU Nurse Slamming San Diego County Board of Supervisor (2:04) The Internet of Bodies | Karen Kingston Shares the Patents That Prove The ENTIRE The Internet of Bodies (4:35) Douglas Murray and Peter Boghossian – Woke ideology, the university, and grievance (14:41)   Onion extracts lower blood pressure for hypertensives: study University of Bonn (Germany), September 7, 2022 Taking onion skin-derived food supplements of the flavonol quercetin can lower blood pressure for people with hypertension, according to a new study published in the British Journal of Nutrition. Researchers from the University of Bonn in Germany conducted a double-blind study on 68 overweight or obese volunteers with pre-hypertension or stage 1 hypertension, giving them either a quercetin-rich onion skin extract supplement or a placebo for six weeks. While the subjects who were not classed as having high blood pressure did not show significant changes, those with high blood pressure saw positive results. “Supplementation with 162 mg/d quercetin from onion skin extract lowers [ambulatory blood pressure] in patients with hypertension, suggesting a cardioprotective effect of quercetin. The mechanisms responsible for the [blood pressure]-lowering effect remain unclear,” wrote the study's authors. Quercetin is an antioxidant commonly found in plants, including onions, kale, apple skins, berries, citrus fruits and tea. Participants with hypertension saw their systolic blood pressure fall an average of 3.6 mmHg, which the authors suggested “would be clinically meaningful when considered at the population level, particularly in view of the large population of people with pre-hypertension and stage I hypertension”. The dose of 162 mg per day of quercetin-rich onion skin extract, in the form of three 54 mg capsules, was identified as being approximately 10 to 15 times the normal daily quercetin intake for people in the European Union. The study excluded people who consumed high levels of quercetin in their normal diets. Older adults with regular activity routines are happier and do better on cognitive tests, study finds University of Pittsburgh, September 12, 2022 Older adults who consistently get up early and remain active throughout the day are happier and perform better on cognitive tests than those with irregular activity patterns, according to a new study led by University of Pittsburgh researchers. The findings, published online in JAMA Psychiatry, suggest that patterns of activity—not just activity intensity—are important for healthy aging and mental health. “There's something about getting going early, staying active all day and following the same routine each day that seems to be protecting older adults,” said lead author Stephen Smagula, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychiatry and epidemiology at Pitt. “What's exciting about these findings is that activity patterns are under voluntary control, which means that making intentional changes to one's daily routine could improve health and wellness.” To learn more about daily activity patterns in U.S.-based older adults and identify links with mental health and cognition, Smagula and his team recruited 1,800 senior citizens aged over 65. Participants wore accelerometers—movement-detecting devices often found in smartphones and exercise trackers—on their wrists for seven days to measure activity, and they completed questionnaires to assess depression symptoms and cognitive function. The analysis showed that 37.6% of participants rose early in the morning, stayed active throughout the day and had consistent daily routines. Another group comprising 32.6% of participants similarly had consistent daily patterns but the participants were active for an average of just 13.4 hours each day because they rose later in the morning or settled down earlier in the evening. This group had more depression symptoms and poorer cognition than the early risers. The remaining 29.8% of participants had disrupted activity patterns in which periods of activity were erratic throughout the day and inconsistent across days. These adults had the highest rates of depression and performed worst on cognitive tests. Smagula said that the first step to developing a consistent routine and getting better sleep is waking up at the same time each day—no matter how tired you are. “The other thing is having a realistic plan to keep active through the whole day. This can be really hard—especially if you're in a slump or recovering from an injury—so it's important to be reasonable with yourself,” he added. “A plan could include making a list of activities you enjoy and scheduling time to meet a friend or neighbor.” Weight loss water: Drinking before each meal aids weight reduction University of Birmingham (UK), September 9, 2022 Drinking 500 ml of water around 30 minutes before main meals could help obese and overweight people to lose more weight, according to new research. The study, published in Obesity, tested the simple intervention of ‘preloading' with water over a 12 week period – finding that people who drank 500ml of water at half an hour before eating main meals lost, on average, 1.3kg (2.87lbs) more than those in the control group who did not preload. “The beauty of these findings is in the simplicity,” commented study lead author Dr Helen Parretti, who is from the University of Birmingham, UK. “Just drinking a pint of water, three times a day, before your main meals may help reduce your weight.” Indeed, the UK-based team reported that preloading before all three main meals in the day resulted in an average loss of 4.3kg (9.48lbs) over the 12 weeks, whereas those who only preloaded once, or not at all, lost an average of 0.8kg (1.76lbs). “Losing a few extra pounds over the course of a year can be significant to an individual, and this could be an easy way to help with that weight loss,” Parretti added. “It's a simple message that has the potential to make a real contribution to public health.” After twelve weeks, Parretti and her team measured weight loss between the two groups – finding that participants who were instructed to consume 500 ml of water 30 min before main meals lost 1.3 kg more than the comparator group. According to the findings, 27% of those in the preloading intervention group lost more than 5% of their body weight during the 12 week trial, while only 5% in the comparator group lost the same amount. Exercise hormone halts Parkinson's disease symptoms in mouse study Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, September 12, 2022 Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston have shown that a hormone secreted into the blood during endurance, or aerobic, exercise reduces levels of a protein linked to Parkinson's disease and halts movement problems in mice. If confirmed in additional laboratory research and clinical trials, the researchers' study in mice engineered to have Parkinson's disease symptoms could pave the way for a Parkinson's disease therapy based on the hormone irisin. In the past decade, other laboratories have found that exercise elevates levels of irisin, and there is interest in looking into the connection between irisin and Alzheimer's disease as well as Parkinson's disease. In the laboratory model, the researchers found that irisin prevented the accumulation of alpha synuclein clumps and its associated brain cell death. Additional studies of brain cells among the mice given irisin showed that the exercise hormone lowered levels of Parkinson's disease-related alpha synuclein between 50% and 80%. The research team demonstrated that irisin also speeds up the transport and degradation of alpha synuclein via fluid-filled sacs called lysosomes in brain cells. Common antidepressant may change brain Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, September 4, 2022 A commonly prescribed antidepressant may alter brain structures in depressed and non-depressed individuals in very different ways, according to new research at Wake Forest Baptist MedicalCenter. The study – conducted in nonhuman primates with brain structures and functions similar to those of humans – found that the antidepressant sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) marketed as Zoloft, significantly increased the volume of one brain region in depressed subjects but decreased the volume of two brain areas in non-depressed subjects. In the study, 41 middle-aged female monkeys were fed a diet formulated to replicate that consumed by many Americans for 18 months, during which time depressive behavior in the animals was recorded. Female monkeys were chosen for this study because depression is nearly twice as common in women as men and the use of antidepressants is most common in women ages 40 to 59. After the 18-month pre-study phase, the monkeys were divided into two groups balanced for body weight, body mass index and depressive behavior. For the next 18 months, 21 monkeys received sertraline in daily doses comparable to those taken by humans while a group of 20 received a placebo. This treatment regimen is analogous to a human taking an antidepressant for approximately five years. MRI images taken at the end of the treatment phase revealed that in depressed subjects the drug significantly increased the volume of one region of the brain, the anterior cingulate cortex, while decreasing the volume of this same region and the hippocampus in non-depressed subjects. Both of these areas are highly interconnected with other areas of the brain; are critical in a wide array of functions including memory, learning, spatial navigation, will, motivation and emotion; and are implicated in major depressive disorder. Daytime eating may benefit mental health Brigham and Women's Hospital, September 12, 2022 Beating the blues with food? A new study adds evidence that meal timing may affect mental health, including levels of depression- and anxiety-related mood. Investigators from Brigham and Women's Hospital, a founding member of the Mass General Brigham health care system, designed a study that simulated night work and then tested the effects of daytime and nighttime eating versus daytime eating only. The team found that, among participants in the daytime and nighttime eating group, depression-like mood levels increased by 26% and anxiety-like mood levels by 16%. Participants in the daytime-only eating group did not experience this increase, suggesting that meal timing may influence mood vulnerability. Results are published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. “Our findings provide evidence for the timing of food intake as a novel strategy to potentially minimize mood vulnerability in individuals experiencing circadian misalignment, such as people engaged in shift work, experiencing jet lag, or suffering from circadian rhythm disorders,” said co-corresponding author Frank A. J. L. Scheer, Ph.D., Director of the Medical Chronobiology Program in the Brigham's Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders. The team found that meal timing significantly affected the participants' mood levels. During the simulated night shift (day 4), those in the Daytime and Nighttime Meal Control Group had increased depression-like mood levels and anxiety-like mood levels, compared to baseline (day 1). In contrast, there were no changes in mood in the Daytime Meal Intervention Group during the simulated night shift. Participants with a greater degree of circadian misalignment experienced more depression- and anxiety-like mood. “Meal timing is emerging as an important aspect of nutrition that may influence physical health,” said Chellappa. “But the causal role of the timing of food intake on mental health remains to be tested. Future studies are required to establish if changes in meal timing can help individuals experiencing depressive and anxiety/anxiety-related disorders.”

181: Caroline Pepper, Learning Space Manager at the University of Birmingham UK | Higher Ed AV PodcastHigher Ed AV PodcastEpisode 181Caroline PepperLearning Space Manager, University of Birmingham UKVice-Chair, SCHOMS

Nicotinamide riboside shows promise in Parkinson disease trial   Haukeland University Hospital  (Norway), March 7 2022.    The March 1, 2022 issue of Cell Metabolism reported findings from a randomized, double-blind trial that revealed a benefit for nicotinamide riboside (NR, a form of vitamin B3) among men and women with Parkinson disease. Nicotinamide riboside is a precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), a coenzyme involved in metabolism whose levels decline during aging. “A growing body of evidence supports that boosting cellular levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) may confer neuroprotective effects in both healthy aging and neurodegeneration,” Brage Brakedal and colleagues wrote. The trial included 30 newly diagnosed Parkinson disease patients who had not received treatment for the disease. Half of the participants received 500 milligrams NR twice daily and the remainder received a daily placebo for thirty days. Upon enrollment and at the end of the study, participants received MRI and PET scans of the brain, and cerebrospinal fluid, skeletal muscle and blood cells were analyzed for metabolites. Gene expression in muscle and blood cells, and serum and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation were also analyzed at these time points.   (NEXT)   GlyNAC supplementation extends life span in mice   Baylor College of Medicine, March 7, 2022   For over two decades, Sekhar has studied natural aging in older humans and aged mice. His work contributes to providing a better understanding of how glutathione deficiency, increased oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and multiple additional hallmark defects of aging contribute to the aging process and how they can be reversed with GlyNAC supplementation. "Energy is the currency of life and is generated by mitochondria. However, aging is associated with mitochondrial malfunction, and this could affect energy availability. When we discovered that GlyNAC supplementation can correct mitochondrial defects in aging, we asked an important question: Could GlyNAC supplementation from a younger age extend length of life?" said Sekhar. "To answer this question, we worked with healthy, normal laboratory mice."   (NEXT)   Common houseplants can improve air quality indoors   University of Birmingham UK, March 7 2022   Ordinary potted house plants can potentially make a significant contribution to reducing air pollution in homes and offices, according to new research led by the University of Birmingham . During a series of experiments monitoring common houseplants exposed to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) – a common pollutant – researchers calculated that in some conditions, the plants could be able to reduce NO2 by as much as 20 per cent. The researchers tested three houseplants, easy to maintain and not overly expensive to buy. They included Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii), Corn plant (Dracaena fragrans) and fern arum (Zamioculcas zamiifolia). Each plant was put, by itself, into a test chamber containing levels of NO2 comparable to an office situated next to a busy road. Over a period of one hour, the team calculated that all the plants, regardless of species, were able to remove around half the NO2 in the chamber. The performance of the plants was not dependent on the plants' environment, for example whether it was in light or dark conditions, and whether the soil was wet or dry.   (NEXT)   Nuts may help lower teenagers' risk of metabolic syndrome   University of Texas, March 5, 2022   Modest consumption of nuts every day is associated with an improved cardiovascular risk profile among adolescents, a new analysis of a large national database shows. T Adolescents who ate at least 12.9 grams (g) per day of nuts -- the equivalent of eating a small handful three times per week -- had less than half the odds of non-eaters for developing metabolic syndrome. This syndrome is a cluster of clinical features that heightens the risk of early heart disease and type 2 diabetes. "The surprising finding," said the study's lead investigator Roy Kim, MD, MPH, an assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, "is that, in spite of what we know about their health benefits, the majority of teens eat no nuts at all on a typical day." More than 75% of all teens reported eating no nuts at all. The researchers discovered that metabolic syndrome risk decreased with each additional gram per day of nut intake, but only up to 50 g/day (about 1.8 ounces), when the benefit tapered off. Kim theorized that at higher intakes, any benefits may have been offset by eating too many calories.   (NEXT)   Garlic sprouted for five days has improved antioxidant potential   Medical News Today, 1 March 2022   "Sprouted" garlic - old garlic bulbs with bright green shoots emerging from the cloves - is considered to be past its prime and usually ends up in the garbage can. Scientists are reporting in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry that this type of garlic has even more heart-healthy antioxidant activity than its fresher counterparts. Sprouted garlic has received much less attention. When seedlings grow into green plants, they make many new compounds, including those that protect the young plant against pathogens. Kim's group reasoned that the same thing might be happening when green shoots grow from old heads of garlic. Other studies have shown that sprouted beans and grains have increased antioxidant activity, so the team set out to see if the same is true for garlic.   TONIGHT, ON The Progressive Commentary Hour MY GUEST IS, Edward Dowd, Edward Dowd is a consultant for Symphonic Capital, a US and German financial firm analyzing risk management performance for S&P 500 market opportunities, where he advises on market and risk strategies. He is also a former managing director for large cap growth equities at Blackrock -- one of the world's top three corporate and banking asset holders.