Podcasts about brighter side

Got a case of the Mondays? Monday morning blues got ya down? There's a solution for that: The Brighter Side Podcast just moved to MONDAYS! Make listening to The Brighter Side your Monday Morning Meditation. Amber, Ashley and Eddie tackle Mondays in our first Monday episode. Does Monday have an origin story? Have you ever suffered from a case of the mondays? or what about the Sunday Scaries? Obviously there are a few other topics in between: Fond memories of dive bars and The Divine Feminine.  The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nostalgia! Why does it make us sad? Is nostalgia dangerous? Julie takes the girls through the history of the actual word nostalgia and how drastically it's meaning has changed since 1688. Ashley and Amber weigh in on what nostalgia means to them. They all share a time for which they are nostalgic. They discuss how nostalgia is used against us plebs by brands and politicians. Nostalgia can be dangerous! But what IS the brighter side of nostalgia... tune in to find out.  Eddie and Amber interview old buddy, Joel Walkowski, about his new book "Honolulu Blues".  The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Page 7, MJ and Jackie are joined by SPUN (and Brighter Side and HoopaGooGoo)'s very own Amber Nelson to pitch an opportunity the network can't miss out on! Then we're onto talkin' 'bout the many shades of musicals that exist, and EVIL PANTIES (created by a professional pop culture troll) are trying to RUIN Zendaya!? Speakin' of HUMAN SHIT, T-Bell Influencer Supreme Jackie got GOT with the cyclospora over the weekend. Then we got a LIST of (40:36) Famous People Who OPENLY Talked SMACK About Other CELEBRITIES, BLINDZ, and then we got a Drive Thru replacin' Jackie's Snackies @ 1:12:00, followed by a MEAT to be MJ's Minute Munchies @ 1:18:14 ending @ 1:26:19, plus even more on this week's Page 7! Want even more Page 7? Support us on Patreon! Patreon.com/Page7Podcast Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Page 7 ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Who wants some good news? We sure do. Amber, Julie, and Ashley round up some uplifting stories to help fight the doom and gloom. From world records involving bald caps to exciting breakthroughs in women's health, they're sharing the headlines that restored a little faith in humanity. Tune in for an episode full of reasons to smile on The Brighter Side! The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hour two of The Neil Haley Show opens with Todd R. Mitchell Jr., author of Never Gave Up (Reclaimed My Life), joined by his fiancee Tanya Weiner. Todd grew up moving constantly as a military family child, uprooted from the north to the south, and chased belonging in ways that pulled him toward trouble and, eventually, alcoholism. He was an exceptional athlete who earned a full college scholarship without ever playing a single high school basketball game, spotted dunking in a pickup game. He played at Piedmont College in Georgia and was headed to the University of Florida before the drinking derailed the transfer, then played eight years of arena football. Asked where he would be had he reached the NBA or NFL, Todd did not hesitate: homeless, broke, or dead, because the money would have arrived long before he reached the root of the problem. He described watching door after door open through basketball, football, and later film, and closing each one himself because he carried the alcohol into every city and every team.Todd traced the bottom honestly: homelessness, incarceration, repeated car accidents, and the last twenty dollars his father sent him spent on alcohol instead of food. He explained that drinking was never the celebration it looked like but a cover for everything he did not want to feel, and that the hardest part was accepting he could not blame anyone else. The turning point came when he felt his faith slipping and believed God had stopped opening doors. Tanya, who met him at the start of his rehab process and visited every day, spoke candidly about what it takes to stand beside someone in recovery, that relapse is part of a process rather than a failure of will, and that the person hurting most is the one who fell. Todd also spoke about his daughter, and the look on her face one day in Atlanta that he has never forgotten. Today he has finished school, earned a film production degree from Miami Dade College, and launched Born From The Ashes Mitchell Production Studios in Jacksonville. Neil and Todd went deep on the question facing every retired athlete, which is what you build once the crowd noise stops, a subject Neil knows firsthand from his own pro wrestling career.Neil then welcomed Dr. Pam Mullarkey Robbins, author of What's So Funny About Dementia?, in a segment presented with Books to Life Marketing. A counselor and psychologist who has been a caregiver four times, Dr. Pam explained why humor became her survival tool during her mother's Alzheimer's journey. She and her father made a deliberate decision to look for what was funny, and she is emphatic that the laughter is with the person, never at them. She shared the story of her mother refusing to let her in the house because she was convinced Pam was her husband's girlfriend, and how a high school graduation photo held up to her face briefly bridged the gap. Each chapter pairs a story with practical guidance, and her counseling work starts with the caregiver, because a caregiver who collapses cannot care for anyone.The conversation turned practical on prevention. Dr. Pam walked through the protein BDNF and the five habits that support it, diet, exercise, rest, lower stress, and socialization, and named early warning signs worth watching, especially repeated questions and unexplained damage to a car. She discussed why isolation is the worst response to a diagnosis, why sugar works against brain health, and why she believes the roughly seventy percent female incidence rate will eventually trace back to menopause. At 79, with Alzheimer's on both sides of her family, she is living proof of her own advice. Neil added his own recommendation to keep the mind sharp after retirement by learning to work with AI. Her second book, The Brighter Side of Dementia, collects a hundred reader-submitted stories.

Birthdays! Everyone has one. Some people go all out, some try to hide from them, and some barely remember they're happening. Amber, Julie, and Ashley share stories from birthdays past, talk about their upcoming celebrations, and dream up the ultimate million-bajillion-dollar birthday. It's all on this episode of The Brighter Side! The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're talking countries on this week's episode of The Brighter Side. Ed's got Grenada & Burundi and Amber's got Panama & El Salvador. Sit down, shut up, and let Ed and Amber drop a little knowledge on your ol' stinky butt. The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You ready to nerd out on Medieval history? Today, Amber, Ashley, and Julie are diving into one of history's most fascinating eras, sharing strange facts and asking the important question: Were the Middle Ages really as romantic as we imagine, or were they just a sloppy, muddy time? The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Eric is the show runner, director and co-writer of HGx2! Not just that, he is the full on director of LPNtv as a whole, he make the old girl tick. But where did he comes from? What does he look like? Who the H-E-Double Hockey Sticks is this freak? Find out on this week's Brighter Side w/Amber & Ed. Watch HGx2 on YouTube! The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amber, Julie, and Ashley revisit their mood boards from the start of the year. Have they achieved all of their dreams? What's it like to revisit your goals months later? And finally, are those people at the bottom of Julie's board at church or in a work meeting? This and more on this week's episode of The Brighter Side! The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Page 7, Jackie and MJ are joined by Amber "Duncan Sheik on the Brain" Nelson of "SPUN", "The Brighter Side", and "HGX2" to goss' all 'bout Amber's ascent (or descent?) into Millennial CVS Music, and the music at JCP making Jackie feel greeeeeeey, but the grocery store music in NYC has got MJ thinkin' its finally their time! Jackie congratulates the NY Knicks on their win, MJ announces they are fully Knickspilled, and everyone reflects how they somehow didn't die while roof drinkin' in NYC.  Jackie and Amber give an update on their rootin' tootin' wild west DnD sessions, Amber gives a not so glowing review of S3 of "Euphoria", "Doc Meet World" shows some of the abusive underside of the "Boy/Girl Meets World" series.  MJ and Jackie discuss how this was a slow celeb news week, as evidenced by the Jeff Goldblum sometimes eats his dessert first being hawt goss', and Tyra Banks filed a lawsuit against Netflix due to the "Reality Check" documentary, plus even more Tyrasanity! Then we got a list filled with Celebs who had terrifying encounters with stalkers, the Blindz, then a Patriotic Jackie's Snackies @1:11:58 and a cheezzy MJ's Minute Munchies @ 1:17:56 til @1:23:57, plus even more on this weeks Page 7! Want even more Page 7? Support us on Patreon! Patreon.com/Page7Podcast Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Page 7 ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Missed this morning's Prospector Show on ROCK 107? Catch up with Prospector's Prime Cuts, your daily recap of the funniest moments from NEPA's morning radio show. On today's episode:
• Big Boy Vacation Packages — if you're stuck in all that Big Boy steam train traffic, why not turn it into a vacation?
• The Brighter Side of Prospector — good news stories that restore a little faith in humanity
• Am I a Jerk? — after a coworker accidentally forwarded emails that weren't meant for Prospector, he was told, "If they don't pertain to you, ignore them." So when more emails arrived, he forwarded every single one back to the coworker. Office justice... or jerk move?
• Prospector's Yambag of the Day
• Plus more weird, funny, and completely unnecessary moments from the show Stay caught up on Northeast PA radio, listener reactions, workplace drama, comedy bits, and the daily nonsense you might have missed on the Prospector Show.

Ed, Amber, and Ashley come together for this episode of Stories to talk about everything from the cost of pizza to orcas showing up in the English Channel. Listener mail at the end, and don't forget to buy local! The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ashley and Amber have a spiraling discussion about their Summer Plans and just how they're feeling in general. Trigger warning for discussion about the cruelty of nature. PS-Ashley says she loves this story but didn't realize it was THIS story. PPS-Ashley made us write that. The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amber, Julie and Ashley discuss psychological personality quizzes. Everything from Who's Your Disney Villain to the horse, ladder, cube thought experiment. These are good questions to ask your friends! The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Missed this morning's Prospector Show on ROCK 107? Catch up with Prospector's Prime Cuts, your daily recap of the funniest moments from NEPA's morning radio show. On today's episode: • inTEXTicated — the drunken texts you forgot you sent • The Top 5 Signs You HAVE NOT Made It — reality can be cruel sometimes • The Brighter Side of Prospector — good news stories that prove the world isn't completely broken • Go or No Go — what's happening around NEPA this weekend and whether it's worth your time • Prospector's Rant — taking aim at Memorial Day boot drives and the people who seem to think they own the road while running them • Prospector's Yambag of the Week • Plus more weird, funny, and completely unnecessary moments from the show Stay caught up on Northeast PA radio, listener stories, local events, and the daily nonsense you might have missed on the Prospector Show.

Billy Nord is running for the Democratic seat in the Minnesota Senate and he sits down with Ed and Amber to discuss his campaign and maybe rage a little about current times. Can Billy take the heat? Tune in to find out! The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us Fan MailChronic absenteeism keeps getting described as a kid problem, but the evidence tells a different story. When we label students as “disengaged,” we miss what is often right in front of us: unreliable transportation, health crises, caregiving demands, and school policies that punish families for not having options.I'm joined by Dr. Ivory Toldson, Chief of Research for Concentric Educational Solutions and a professor at Howard University, to unpack insights from his white paper, “Redefining the Attendance Paradigm: A Systemic Analysis of Chronic Absenteeism, Economic Impacts, & Human-Centered Interventions,” built on national data and more than 17,000 ethnographic home visits. We talk about the privilege gap that determines whether a missed bus becomes a minor inconvenience or a full-day absence, and why health-related absences often become “unexcused” through communication breakdowns and paperwork hurdles. We also dig into the gray areas schools struggle with, like when students miss class to care for siblings or help during family emergencies.We take a hard look at compliance-driven attendance strategies, including truancy penalties and suspensions for tardies, and why those approaches can deepen disengagement rather than improve school attendance. From there, we map out what human-centered interventions look like in practice: home visits that bring resources, clearer excused absence processes, stronger relationships, and policies that prioritize mastery of learning over seat time. We close with a mindset shift that changes everything: stop “fighting absenteeism” and start increasing participation.

Amber's pants are too tight! Ashley's car tires are about to explode! This week Amber and Ashley talk their plans for their respective summer breaks. Also, what's up with eggs? Why are y'all eating so many? We want to hear from you! The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's the return of that good old classic Brighter Side game, Hoop-A-Goo-Goo! The theme of this edition is “Signs of the Apocalypse.” Eddie, Amber, Ashley, and Julie filled a hat with what they consider signs that the end is near. Each round, a player blindly picks from the hat, and the other contestants are tasked with finding the brighter side of the chosen apocalyptic scenario. Cats the size of horses! Being a gravedigger is the only source of income. A giant woman reins terror from the sky! Tune in and learn who wins gloating rights. You can also watch us on YouTube now at youtube.com/@thebrightersidelpn The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Missed this morning's Prospector Show on ROCK 107? Catch up with Prospector's Prime Cuts, your daily recap of the funniest moments from NEPA's morning radio show. On today's episode: • Your Whole Life is a Lie! — the truth about swallowing spiders in your sleep • Momisms — the classic sayings every mom somehow used growing up • The Brighter Side of Prospector — good news stories that restore your faith in humanity • Prospector's prank call — pitching a “resident restraint system” to a senior living center • Prospector's Yambag of the Day • Plus more weird, funny, and completely unnecessary moments from the show Stay caught up on Northeast PA radio, listener stories, prank calls, and the daily nonsense you might have missed on the Prospector Show.

Missed this morning's Prospector Show on ROCK 107? Catch up with Prospector's Prime Cuts, your daily recap of the funniest moments from NEPA's morning radio show. On today's episode: • Am I a Jerk? — a real-life situation that has people picking sides • Cinco de Mayo — how people are celebrating (or just using it as an excuse) • The Brighter Side of Prospector — good news stories that actually restore a little faith in humanity • Prospector's Yambag of the Day • Plus more weird, funny, and completely unnecessary moments from the show Stay caught up on Northeast PA radio, listener reactions, real-life debates, and the daily nonsense you might have missed on the Prospector Show.

Ever been personally victimized by a school dance? Amber, Ashley, and Julie relive proms, awkward slow dances, and the humiliating moments that somehow led to new friendships. Ashley talks about having a shaved head, we learn Amber's mom tricked her into going to a dance, and that Julie tried on every prom dress at Macy's. Along the way, the gals wonder what happened to all those people whose names they can't remember, question whether some teachers just suck, revisit Saved by the Bell and that iconic Zach and Kelly first kiss, and yes, someone is accused of witchcraft. Welcome to The Brighter Side! A weekly podcast that aims to be a positive light in the horror show we call Earth. A cynic's look at optimism, if you will. Try it! Partner broke up with you? More time for [INSERT FUN HOBBY YOU'VE BEEN DYING TO TRY]! Think less toxic positivity and more: if we don't laugh, we spiral. We promise—everything is gonna be alright. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by The Cowmen. Logo by Dave Koehler. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amber Nelson & Ed Larson sit down to rapid fire some positivity into things that have been griding their gears lately. It really helps get the bad juju out - try it with a friend at home! ALSO, WE'RE ON YOUTUBE NOW! GO SUBSCRIBE AT youtube.com/@thebrightersidelpn The Brighter Side finds the positive light in this horror show we call Earth, a cynic's look at optimism. So put down the gun, stay outta that church, and spark up a joint, because everything is going to be alright. We promise. For real. Just chill. Hosted by Ed Larson, Amber Nelson, Ashley Brooke Roberts, and Julie Rosing. Theme song by the Cowmen Logo by Dave Koehler Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Please, Cards - what in the world is a girl to do? Amber, Ashley, and Julie are joined by good friend, Marie Young to pull some tarot and get some gosh darn guidance. Sliiiight Trigger Warning- things get E-MOTION-AL.   Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you headed to Galaxy Con this year? Maybe you're going to P-Funk Fest in Tallahassee this weekend, if so or if not, this episode is for you! Ed's Florida friend and amazing comedian Lisa Corrao drops in to talk cons and fests and surprisingly outer space! Be good to yourselves! Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us Fan MailA student's future should not depend on whether their school can find a qualified chemistry teacher this year—but that's often how geography-bound education works.When the PISA 2022 report revealed declines in performance and widening gaps across countries, it's easy to point to motivation or effort. This conversation takes a different angle: what if the real constraint is the structure of schooling and how learning is organized?Dr. Lisa Hassler is joined by Maurice O'Shannassy, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Sagecool. With a background in building complex global systems, Maurice turned his attention to a growing issue in education: teacher shortages and limited access to subject expertise. He shares how Sagecool is designed to connect students and teachers beyond geographic constraints, helping schools and families better match learning needs with teacher expertise and teaching approaches.In this episode, you'll hear about:how staffing limitations affect access to learning opportunitieshow access to the “right teacher” goes beyond availability to include subject expertise and student fitwhat it could look like to connect students with teachers beyond their local schoolhow data and learning enhancement technology (LET) can support teaching and learningwhat this approach could mean for rural and lower-resourced schools and communitiesThis conversation invites educators, school leaders, and families to reflect on where access—not effort—may be limiting opportunity, and to consider how expanding access to teaching could better support students and teachers alike.

Ever broken a mirror and suffered seven torturous years of bad luck? Amber, Ashley, and Julie dive into the world of superstitions this week. Which ones do they live by? Which ones will they follow moving forward? And which new ones will they create just for funnsies?  Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week Ed and Amber discuss the little things they do to make the world a better place and what soups correspond with those good deeds!  Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us Fan MailIn many classrooms, toys are something we put away when it's time to get serious. But what if toys are actually one of the most effective ways to teach?In this episode of The Brighter Side of Education, Dr. Lisa Hassler explores toybuilding as a powerful instructional approach with educational toymaker Rick Hartman, founder of School of Toy. With over 25 years of experience and more than one million students reached, Rick shares how building simple toys transforms learning from passive to active.Rather than treating toys as extras, this conversation reframes them as tools for thinking—helping students test ideas, solve problems, and make sense of concepts in science, math, and engineering.In this episode, you'll discover:How toybuilding turns abstract concepts into hands-on learningWhy simple materials can lead to complex thinkingHow to use toybuilding as part of real instruction—not just enrichmentWhat students gain when they build, test, and revise their ideasA simple toybuilding activity using a straw and rubber bandWhether used as a lesson starter, learning activity, or culminating experience, toybuilding offers a practical way to engage students and deepen understanding.

This week on Second Helpings, Jackie and MJ are joined by Ed Larson, and there's an announcement about Brighter Side future, Ed and Jackie convinced MJ to watch the "Inside the Manosphere" doc by Louis Theroux and it's a beautiful view into the toxicity of the culture, and HBO Max's hilariously depressing "Neighbors" only has one more episode! Afroman continues to victory lap following the bogus 2022 raid and winning a recent defamation lawsuit, the Buffy reboot has been axed by the network, but Scrubs reboot is here to remain, much like the rumor that Zach Braff is dating an AI chatbot. Julia Fox had to give a dissertation on the movie "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You" because Vanity Fair hired an "influencer" who just wanted to talk about how annoying the kid was. BWW's has an Espresso Proteini abomination they are threatening to unleash on us all, Hidden Valley Ranch is callin' on ranchheads to spread ranch far and wide by traveling abroad and eatin' ranch on everything in front of everyone, and Taco Bell comin' out with an edible hot sauce packet, then Ed gets tips on how to travel with Holden, plus even more on this week's Second Helpings! Want even more Page 7? Support us on Patreon! Patreon.com/Page7Podcast Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Page 7 ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bummer, you just missed National Oatmeal Nut Waffle Day, but HOORAY today is the International Day of Happiness. Amber, Ashley and Julie are talking tiny holidays. If there's something you love, chances are there's a special day on the calendar to celebrate it. ARGGH! Mateys, Doncha wish it was International Talk like a Pirate Dat already?? Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week Ed and Amber are talking all things jokes! Ed unearths a joke book from his youth that more than lives up to it's name - "Truly Tasteless Jokes 3." Plus Ed and Amber go head to head in a "Yo Mama" vs "Yo Daddy" joke-off, and top it all off, we've got a little discussion about the ins and outs of roasting.  Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send a textEver feel like grammar turns a lively class silent? We dig into a brighter way forward with literacy consultant and author Patty McGee, exploring how short, focused routines transform grammar from rote correction into a set of powerful choices that make writing clearer, bolder, and more authentic. Instead of chasing perfection on worksheets, we show how to build sentence craft in tiny, joyful steps that actually transfer to real writing.We start by naming the problem: isolated drills don't move the needle on student prose. From there, Patty lays out a practical grammar study approach—ten-minute mini lessons, three to five times a week over several weeks—that begins with curiosity, moves to explicit modeling, and leans on low-stakes play. Think manipulatives for language: sentence strips, coordinating conjunctions, and structured challenges that help students feel how ideas combine and meaning shifts. The result is confidence, not compliance.We also put culture to work. Lyrics function like compressed poetry, perfect for analyzing syntax, figurative language, and voice. Students compare fragments with full sentences, expand lines while preserving tone, and reflect on author intent. Then we make the learning stick with co-authored reference tools that students actually use: clear guides to simple, compound, and complex sentences, when to choose each, and how to build them inside drafts they've already written. It's visible progress without the fear of a blank page.Transfer matters across the day. Science benefits from precise simple sentences and selective compounding; social studies often calls for complex structures that signal cause and nuance. We touch on AI as well—how students can compare their drafts with AI feedback, accept what serves their audience, and reject what doesn't, because they now understand the grammar choices behind strong writing. Ready to retire the grammar police mindset and bring back joy and clarity? Follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a review to help more educators find these ideas.Not Your Granny's Grammar, link here!Great News! The Brighter Side of Education is now CPD Accredited! Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMDTrusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily. Head to the show notes to find if this episode is CPD eligible and details on how to claim your CPD certification!Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMDTrusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily.Support the showIf you have a story about what's working in your schools that you'd like to share, email me at lisa@drlisahassler.com or visit www.drlisahassler.com. Subscribe, tell a friend, and consider becoming a supporter by clicking the link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2048018/support. The music in this podcast was written and performed by Brandon Picciolini of the Lonesome Family Band. Visit and follow him on Instagram.

I sat down with the guys of A Brighter Side a bit ago at Atomic. They recently released their debut EP to the world and we deep dive into some of the songs & talk about recording with the great Nathan Hershey.  On this episode you'll hear:  Live It Long Metaphors Sing-A-Long Find more from A Brighter Side wherever you get your digital music! Follow along with them on FB, IG & TikTok.  See them LIVE:  March 13 at Atomic (St.Louis, MO) for Summer Camp: On The Road with Spillie Nelson, Subplay, Stacks, Modern Pasta, & Stymulation March 20 at John Brown's On The Square (Marion, IL) March 27 at Pop's Nightclub (Sauget, IL) for Road To Pointfest with Facing Infamy, Alex Petraborg, Party Hat Club, Brave New World, Trevor May & The Nomads and Time Kure.  

Amber, Ashley, and Julie spin their recent dookies into pookies and then share another round of interesting mythical creatures. If you followed your longing where would it point you?? Definitely not to the parking garage on Hollywood Blvd.  Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amber and Ashley are talking moving on by looking back. The gals get their journals out to examine where they came from and where they're going. No more romanticizing the past! We're romanticizing the future on this week's episode of The Brighter Side! Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send a textEducators across grade levels are observing a consistent pattern: students are increasingly distracted, mentally fatigued, and less able to sustain focus during academic tasks. These challenges affect reading comprehension, problem-solving, written expression, and overall learning stamina. This episode examines the cognitive and neurological foundations behind these trends and explores how neuroscience-informed innovation may support learning readiness.Drawing on research in neuroplasticity and cognitive development, the discussion highlights how core brain systems—including attention regulation, working memory, processing speed, response inhibition, and visual control—play a critical role in students' ability to engage in sustained learning. The episode explores how stress, digital overstimulation, anxiety, and sleep disruption can place strain on these systems, reducing cognitive efficiency in classroom settings.Guest Dominick Fedele, CEO and founder of Mastermind Cognitive Training, shares insights into the development of targeted cognitive training exercises designed to strengthen foundational brain skills through structured, repeated practice. The conversation examines how short, gamified training sessions aim to leverage neuroplasticity to enhance focus, learning stamina, and academic readiness. Assessment models used to measure cognitive growth are also discussed, along with early feedback from educators and families.This episode provides educators with a research-informed perspective on cognitive readiness and offers insight into how structured brain-based practice may complement classroom instruction. It invites reflection on how strengthening underlying cognitive systems may help students engage more effectively in learning while supporting teachers in managing diverse attention needs.Great News! The Brighter Side of Education is now CPD Accredited! Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMDTrusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily. Head to the show notes to find if this episode is CPD eligible and details on how to claim your CPD certification!Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMDTrusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily.Support the showIf you have a story about what's working in your schools that you'd like to share, email me at lisa@drlisahassler.com or visit www.drlisahassler.com. Subscribe, tell a friend, and consider becoming a supporter by clicking the link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2048018/support. The music in this podcast was written and performed by Brandon Picciolini of the Lonesome Family Band. Visit and follow him on Instagram.

This week Ed and Amber are, once again, revisiting a classic childhood game - Would You Rather? Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week Amber, Julie and Ashley are talking Galentine's Day! The history of it, how to celebrate it and the woman that embody its very spirit. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send a textAs automation and artificial intelligence reshape the future of work, educators face a critical question: Are we preparing students for a world defined by automation and innovation?In this episode of The Brighter Side of Education, Dr. Lisa Hassler speaks with Camp, Head of Teaching and Learning at New England Innovation Academy, about how competency-based learning and human-centered design can work together to support meaningful, future-ready education.The conversation explores research-backed approaches to assessment, including evidence showing that competency-based environments grounded in strong student–teacher relationships improve student achievement. John shares how schools can maintain academic rigor while shifting the focus from grades to demonstrated mastery, transferable skills, and ethical technology use.Listeners will gain insight into:The limitations of traditional grading systemsHow competency-based assessment supports deeper learningThe role of human-centered design in student engagement and belongingResponsible approaches to integrating AI in teaching and learningSmall, actionable changes educators can make to innovate within constraints

On this week's episode Ed and Amber attempt to stop saying, "You know?" so much! Play along at home by taking a drink every time they say, "You know?"! Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amber, Julie and Ashley are diving into the time honored tradition of all cultures - mythical creatures! Buckle up listeners! It's time to get freaky deaky. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today Amber and Ed get Mike Lawrence (Nerd of Mouth) in the studio to examine their friendships and comedy careers. EXPOSED. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Not all problems are big problems so today Amber & Ed thought of a bunch of mundane things that make them upset and had their friend Ariel Liety, from Fraudsters, help them come up with some rapid fire brighter sides. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ed missed out last week so he shares his 2026 Mood Board. Also, Amber and Ed discuss all things New Years. Be good to yourselves! Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, on Crime & Entertainment, we are Joined by  @TheBrighterSideofBluePodcast   Today we discuss some of the OG Legends in the St Louis area with the guys that help put them behind bars. Q Thompson, Dionne "Cuffy" Gatling of the Peabody Projects, & J-Bo w/ The Connection to the BMFFollow The Brighter Side of Blue here.https://www.youtube.com/@UCyxANUH2srMZdE_kOWpWTyg IG https://www.instagram.com/thebrightersideofblue/Links to Crime & EntertainmentLike us on Facebook -    / crimeandentertainment  Follow us on IG -   / crimenentertainment    Listen on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4T67Bs5...Listen on Apple Music - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Listen on Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/crime-e...Listen on Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

It's time for Amber, Julie and Ashley's 2026 Mood Boards. Let's see what they manifest for themselves this coming year and marvel as they brainstorm how to pull it all off. What's on your mood board this year? Let us know in the comments! Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It seems like we've been saying the same thing every year, it was a tough one - but we're The Brighter Side so here are Amber and Ed's favorite things this past year! Be good to yourselves! Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of The Brighter Side ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Page 7, MJ and Jackie are joined by LPOTL, Brighter Side, and HGX2 host Ed Larson fresh from his Crimewave at Sea journey to goss' 'bout Eddie's upcoming stand up shows, and more!  Mr. Fantasy has been announced as one of the performers for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, causing MJ and Jackie to recall the days of Riverdale Roundup, and Eddie learns about HILARIA and Alec's daughter's skincare book. Kris Jenner had her 70th bday party and it's got everyone talkin' about her new face, the most important news of the year, THE BUTTERBALL REPORT has dropped, Tillamook unleashes Butternaise to ensure no-one ever burns a grilled cheese again, a slightly out of time List, 20 Facts about classic Halloween movies that are equal parts delightfully geeky and 100% truly fascinating, then the BLINDZZZ! Jackie's Snackies starts 'round 1:11:55.350 with MJ's Minute Munchies 'round 1:18:48.453 that runs until 1:23:30.095. All that and more on this week's Page 7!Want even more Page 7? Support us on Patreon! Patreon.com/Page7Podcast Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Page 7 ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.