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Joshua Noel and Christian Ashley dive into the realms of time and space as they rank their top five Doctor Who companions in this engaging episode of Systematic Geekology. Kicking things off, they tackle the age-old debate of who truly deserves the title of the best companion, sparking a lively discussion filled with witty banter and insightful commentary. As they reminisce about iconic characters and their unforgettable adventures alongside the Doctor, listeners are treated to a mix of nostalgia and fresh perspectives. From heartwarming moments to the challenges faced by each companion, Joshua and Christian explore what makes these characters shine—or falter. With clever remarks that keep the vibe light, this episode is a delightful journey for Whovians and newcomers alike, inviting everyone to reflect on their favorite companions and the unique roles they play in the Doctor's universe.Takeaways: In this episode of Systematic Geekology, they explore the criteria for ranking Doctor Who companions, highlighting character arcs and how they interact with the Doctor. Joshua and Christian passionately debate the merits of their favorite companions, showcasing a mix of nostalgia and analytical discussion. They emphasize the importance of companions challenging the Doctor's decisions, adding depth to the narrative and showcasing their individuality. Humor and banter flow throughout the episode, creating an engaging atmosphere as they share personal anecdotes related to their favorite characters. The episode reveals how companions serve as mirrors to the Doctor, reflecting his humanity and grounding him amidst his cosmic adventures. Listeners are encouraged to participate by sharing their own rankings and thoughts on the companions, fostering community engagement. .Be sure to check out our merch, find extra content, and become an official member of Systematic Geekology on our website:https://systematic-geekology-shop.fourthwall.com/.Listen to all of our Doctor Who episodes:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/ed801af8-c4d8-44ec-98c2-1d55e04d11dd.Check out the other episode where we did the Top 5 Doctor Who companions:https://systematic-geekology.captivate.fm/episode/who-are-the-doctors-best-companions/.Check out other episodes with Joshua:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/642da9db-496a-40f5-b212-7013d1e211e0.Listen to every episode with Christian:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/ebf4b064-0672-47dd-b5a3-0fff5f11b54cMentioned in this episode:Follow us on Instagram and BlueSky to keep up to date!Follow our show on our socials to keep up to date and get some exclusive content and fun memes!Join our Facebook group and Discord ServerFind our Facebook group, "Priests to the Geeks", then join our Discord server with this link to continue on the conversation with us!DiscordAnazao Podcast NetworkOur show is part of the Anazao Podcast Network and you can find other great shows like ours by checking out the whole network with this link!
The Prophets (a.s) (S16) The Messenger ﷺ, the prism of perfection. Many have come and gone, but none have matched him ﷺ. He ﷺ put kings to shame. He ﷺ never sought fame. He ﷺ is al-Mustafa, the greatest of creation! Hasan Ibn Thaabit رضي الله عنه: “A person more handsome than you [ﷺ] my eyes never saw. One more beautiful a woman never bore. You were fashioned free from every flaw. It is as if you [ﷺ] were created the way you sought”. When the Messenger ﷺ was very ill he advised: “Take care of the earliest Muslims amongst you and their children [رضي الله عنهم]. If you fail to do so, Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وتَعَالَى will not accept anything from your deeds”. Thus it is a must for us to love the Muhajireen رضي الله عنهم. The Companions رضي الله عنهم to us are like the stars. They burn bright. They left many years ago, yet still their light reaches us, guiding us through our journey. They are all distinct beams of light, shining through the prism of perfection ﷺ. May Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وتَعَالَى be well pleased with all the blessed and noble companions of the Messenger ﷺ, indeed, He (سُبْحَانَهُ وتَعَالَى) is!
Today, we're diving into a topic that's increasingly shaping our personal lives: the rise of AI companions, and how these so-called 'perfect partners' are fundamentally altering our expectations for real-world relationships. Imagine a companion who offers no rejection, no compromise, no conflict, and delivers instant affection with a personality customized just for you. Sounds appealing, right? But the growing concern is that this digital perfection comes at a steep price for genuine human connection.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lets-talk-sex--5052038/support.
Today, we're diving into a topic that's both oday, we're diving into a topic that's both fascinating and concerning: the growing phenomenon of AI intimacy tools and the hidden risks they pose to our emotional well-being and critical thinking.AI companions and chatbots are designed to mimic human interaction, fostering emotional connections with users. While they offer constant availability and validation, new research highlights significant downsides, including emotional dependency, and concerning: the growing phenomenon of AI intimacy tools and the hidden risks they pose to our emotional well-being and critical thinking.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lets-talk-sex--5052038/support.
AI Intimacy Tools: Shame vs. LiberationDive into the complex world of digital companions offering friendship, empathy, and connection.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lets-talk-sex--5052038/support.
Episode 724: Neal and Toby talk with James Zahn, the editor-in-chief of The Toy Book, aka @therockfather, to dive deep into the toy industry as the holiday becomes the busiest time of the year for the industry. But will it now have to compete with the advent of AI-powered toys and companions? Also, what's fueling the Kidult economy and why the term isn't exactly new. Then, a discussion about the symbiotic relationship between Hollywood and toy manufacturers. Finally, what are the greatest toys of all-time. Learn more at usbank.com/splitcard Get your MBD live show tickets here! https://www.tinyurl.com/MBD-HOLIDAY Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need to start your day. Share the show with a friend, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app. Listen to Morning Brew Daily Here: https://www.swap.fm/l/mbd-note Watch Morning Brew Daily Here: https://www.youtube.com/@MorningBrewDailyShow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Therapeutic tools: Some researchers are experimenting with AI companions to reduce loneliness, anxiety, or trauma related to intimacy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lets-talk-sex--5052038/support.
By David Stephen who looks at AI companions in this article. There is a new guest essay in The New York Times, The Sad and Dangerous Reality Behind 'Her', stating that, "We received letters from users who told us that Kuki had quelled suicidal thoughts, helped them through addiction, advised them on how to confront bullies and acted as a sympathetic ear when their friends failed them. We wanted to believe that A.I. could be a solution to loneliness." "Regulation would start with universal laws for A.I. companions, including clear warning labels, time limits, 18-plus age verification and, most important, a new framework for liability that places the burden on companies to prove their products are safe, not on users to show harm. Absent swift legislation, some of the largest A.I. companies are poised to repeat the sins of social media on a more devastating scale." AI companions what could possibly go wrong? "Emotional attachment maximizes engagement. But there's a dark side to A.I. companions, whose users are not just the lonely males of internet lore, but women who find them more emotionally satisfying than men." Mind Assuming the map of the United States is the human mind. There are [stations in] states and there are means [or transportation to get across]. Some transportation can get from one state to the other, say a boat through some states bordering Lake Michigan or a boat to some neighboring costal states. However, in general, a boat may not get to several places within continental U.S. at least directly or easily. Meanwhile, trains would, vehicles would, jetliners would, even motorbikes and bicycles would. Now, if there is a conference in a state, attendees may arrive by different transport modes. As long as they are on time and arrived safely, it may not matter what mode was used. Once you're there, you are there. It may be possible that timing, cost, distance, channel [air, land, water], may decide factors but the objective is to get there. This is a simple and direct way to explain the human mind. Conceptually, all functions are destinations, obtained by the interactions of the components of mind. However, attributes determine the extents to which they interact. Simply, in the mind, there are stations and there are relays. Interaction of components occur at the stations, while transport take summaries of the last interaction to the next. Attributes are sometimes a result of the share of that set or station among the whole. So, stations and relays. In the human mind, whatever gets to a station is experienced. It may not matter the relay that brought it. A relay type could be reality of the external world. It could also be reality, from the virtual or digital sphere. It could also be internally driven, say by thoughts or memories. But if it gets there, then the experience is probable [given the attributes]. There are somethings that do not necessarily matter, at stations [or destinations]. Text on a screen, text on paper or text imagined. Image and sound too sometimes. However, for motion or video, it is different, for what is in reality and then what is viewed on a device. There are several feelings and emotional destinations that are possible by direct reality relays. For example, craving when food is seen or when the aroma comes across. There could also be craving when the food is seen on a screen. There could be craving too by imagination. These are all destinations and it is what gets there that decides. AI Companions AI companions delivering texts, images, audios and videos to several consumers are going directly to [destinations or] stations in the mind, for emotions and feelings. They are using different relays, but getting there however. They are also using attributes that grade those stations or destinations higher. Simply, they are going to destinations in the mind for affection, love, longing, support, togetherness, importance and so forth. While it is clear that the relays are not using the same paths as...
Homily from the Mass offered on Monday, November 24th -1st Reading: Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20 - Gospel Reading: Luke 21:1-4 - To support the podcast financially, click here: https://stpiuscda.org/online-giving
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Scott Hahn. Andrew Dung-Lac, Priest, Martyr, & Companions, Martyrs Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Daniel 1: 1-6, 8-20 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 Alleluia: Matthew 24: 42a, 44 Gospel: Luke 21: 1-4 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com Bible Across America is a new FREE Scripture study initiative that brings Catholics together to read and study God's Word from the heart of the Church. Join Dr. Shane Owens—Associate Professor of Theology at Franciscan University—together with Fr. Boniface Hicks, Alex Jones, Katie McGrady, and Heather Khym for our Advent Bible Across America study. Sign up to join the movement today at www.stpaulcenter.com/america
Pastoral Reflections Finding God In Ourselves by Msgr. Don Fischer
Gospel Luke 21:1-4 When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, "I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.” Reflection What's the difference in this passage between wealthy people and a poor widow? And why is the poor widow's gift so rich? It's simply because the rich do not understand their need for God. They don't understand that the very thing they are is always because of God's care, God's love. That disposition of a heart when it generously gives to others, is a much greater gift. Closing Prayer Father, fill us with your richness. Fill us with your gifts. We are not enough. We know our need for you, and when you are within us, we are in such a better place to offer who you are to the people around them. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Friends of the Rosary,Today, when honoring Saint Andrew Dŭng-Lạc, Priest, and Companions, Martyrs, we see in the Gospel (Luke 21:1-4) a poor widow trusting herself entirely to the Divine Providence by putting her last penny into the temple treasury.Christ said,"I tell you truly,this poor widow put in more than all the rest;for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth,but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood."This passage makes us remember the parable about the foolish rich man who apparently had everything needed to be happy.But he didn't have faith and love for God.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play
Join Father Kevin Drew as he preaches on this Memorial of Saint Andrew Dŭng-Lạc, Priest, and Companions, Martyrs. Today's readings First Reading: Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20 Psalm: Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56 Gospel: Luke 21:1-4 Catholic Radio Network
Daniel 1: 1-6, 8-20; Luke 21: 1-4; Haydock Commentary Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Scott Hahn. Andrew Dung-Lac, Priest, Martyr, & Companions, Martyrs Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Daniel 1: 1-6, 8-20 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 Alleluia: Matthew 24: 42a, 44 Gospel: Luke 21: 1-4 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com Bible Across America is a new FREE Scripture study initiative that brings Catholics together to read and study God's Word from the heart of the Church. Join Dr. Shane Owens—Associate Professor of Theology at Franciscan University—together with Fr. Boniface Hicks, Alex Jones, Katie McGrady, and Heather Khym for our Advent Bible Across America study. Sign up to join the movement today at www.stpaulcenter.com/america
Give God your life!
Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20 (None was found like Daniel, Hannah, Mishael, and Azariah) 2 Maccabees 6:18, 21, 24-31 (I am glad to suffer these things because I fear him)
For 24 November 2025, Memorial of Saints Andrew Dung-Lac and his Companions, Martyrs of Vietnam, based on Matthew 10:17-22
Lkk 21:1-4When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy peopleputting their offerings into the treasuryand he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins.He said, "I tell you truly,this poor widow put in more than all the rest;for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth,but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood."
Apps promise friendship and love on demand, but researchers are discovering that relationships with artificial companions can deepen loneliness, foster dependence, and in tragic cases, contribute to self-harm.IN THIS EPISODE: A woman in England insists she's not from this planet—literally—claiming an extraterrestrial soul from a star cluster 440 light-years away occupies her human body. She's not alone in this belief, and she's turned her supposed alien origins into a thriving business coaching thousands of others who are convinced they're starseeds too. (Woman Claims To Be An Alien) *** In 1393, six dancers at a French royal ball wore costumes made of pitch-soaked linen sewn directly onto their bodies—then the king's drunken brother walked in with a torch and set them all on fire. Four men died screaming as their flaming costumes melted into their skin while horrified nobles watched, and the disaster pushed France's already-mad king deeper into psychosis and the kingdom closer to civil war. (The Ball of Burning Men) *** But first… Millions of people have formed deep emotional bonds with AI chatbots that promise companionship without judgment—but teenagers are dying by suicide after their digital companions encouraged self-harm instead of offering help. The apps are engineered to create dependency, and research shows the more comfort people get from AI, the less human connection they maintain, turning what feels like a lifeline into a trap. We begin with that story. (When The Algorithm Says “I Love You”)CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…00:00:00.000 = Lead-In00:03:03.569 = Show Open00:05:17.971 = When The Algorithm Says “I Love You”00:34:25.191 = ***Woman Claims To Be An Alien00:55:06.793 = ***The Ball of Burning Men01:21:42.969 = Show Close*** = Begins immediately after inserted ad breakPRINT VERSIONS to READ or SHARE (includes sources):When The Algorithm Says “I Love You”: https://weirddarkness.com/ai-romance/ (Church of the Undead episode:https://weirddarkness.com/cotu-ai-romance/ - post goes live November 23, 2025)Woman Claims To Be An Alien: https://weirddarkness.com/woman-claims-proof-alien-pleiades-star-cluster/The Ball of Burning Men: https://weirddarkness.com/masquerade-ball-burning-men-1393/=====(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)= = = = ="I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46= = = = =WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.=====Originally aired: November 21, 2025EPISODE PAGE (includes sources): https://weirddarkness.com/AIRomanceABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.DISCLAIMER: Ads heard during the podcast that are not in my voice are placed by third party agencies outside of my control and should not imply an endorsement by Weird Darkness or myself. *** Stories and content in Weird Darkness can be disturbing for some listeners and intended for mature audiences only. Parental discretion is strongly advised.#WeirdDarkness #AICompanions #ChatbotDanger #DigitalLoneliness #TechnologyAddiction #MentalHealthCrisis #ArtificialRelationships #TeenageSafety #ParasocialRelationships #AIEthics
Send us a textJoin hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they unpack the breakthroughs and backlash following the Google DeepMind AI for Learning Forum in London—and what it means for the future of edtech.✨ Episode Highlights:[00:03:30] Google DeepMind's AI for Learning Forum sets a new global tone for learning innovation[00:06:58] Google's “Learn Your Way” tool personalizes entire textbooks with AI[00:08:12] AI video tools like Google Flow redefine classroom content creation[00:13:40] Why this could be the moment for teachers to become AI media creators[00:18:36] Risks of AI-generated video: deepfakes, disinformation, and youth impact[00:22:19] Duolingo stock crashes over 40% amid investor fears of big tech competition[00:23:52] Screen time backlash accelerates: parents turn to screen-free edtech[00:26:14] Why physical math books and comic-style curricula are surging in demand[00:27:35] A wave of screen-free edtech: from LeapFrog alumni to audio-first toolsPlus, special guests:[00:28:51] Michelle Culver, Founder of The Rithm Project, and Erin Mote, CEO of InnovateEDU, on the psychological risks of AI companions, building trust in AI tools, and designing for pro-social relationships[00:51:48] Ben Caulfield, CEO of Eedi, shares groundbreaking findings from their Google DeepMind study: AI tutors now match—and sometimes outperform—humans in math instruction, and how Eedi powers the future of scalable, safe AI tutoring.
Saint Stories for the Soul: Saint Andrew Dũng-Lạc & Companions, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Catherine Labouré (Ep. 489)Journey beyond comfort into the heartbeat of holiness. Each week, Saint Stories for the Soul brings you the gripping, true stories of men and women who faced fear, loss, and temptation—and chose God anyway. Through vivid storytelling and timeless wisdom, discover what the saints would say to our restless age and how their courage, mercy, and faith can shape your own.This week: Saint Andrew Dũng-Lạc & Companions | Faith That Would Not Bow | Feast Day: November 24Saint Catherine of Alexandria | Wisdom That Would Not Break | Feast Day: November 25Saint Catherine Labouré | The Visit That Changed the World | Feast Day: November 28 [Manuscript]Ordinary people. Extraordinary grace.Because sanctity isn't someday—it's now.
St. Nicholas Tavelic, OFM, Priest, and Companions, Martyrs (Memorial)
Quinn comes to you LIVE to discuss dollar movie theaters, parachuting accidents, and plum brandy
November 14th, 2025: Martyrdom & the Courage of Charity; Staying in Your Seat with St Josaphat; St Nicholas & the Challenge of Truth; St Josaphat - Patron of Unity; Disobeying Unjust Laws
Slavery has been a ubiquitous practice throughout much of world history–and the Muslim world was no exception. Slave soldiers, concubines, and eunuchs can be found throughout Muslim writings—which, as Justin Marozzi points out in his book Captives and Companions: A History of Slavery and the Slave Trade in the Islamic World (Pegasus Books, 2025), ends up giving us a selective and narrow view of who slaves were, and what they did. Justin tries to dive into this history–sometimes very patchy history–to figure out the full extent of slavery in the Muslim world, from the very start of Muslim society, through the Ottoman Empire and the Barbary Pirates, to abolition and the final decision by Mauritania to abolish slavery in 1981. Justin Marozzi is a former Financial Times and Economist foreign correspondent. He is also the author of several books, including Baghdad: City of Peace, City of Blood (Allen Lane: 2014) and Islamic Empires: The Cities that Shaped the Modern World (Pegasus Books: 2020). You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Captives and Companions. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. 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
Slavery has been a ubiquitous practice throughout much of world history–and the Muslim world was no exception. Slave soldiers, concubines, and eunuchs can be found throughout Muslim writings—which, as Justin Marozzi points out in his book Captives and Companions: A History of Slavery and the Slave Trade in the Islamic World (Pegasus Books, 2025), ends up giving us a selective and narrow view of who slaves were, and what they did. Justin tries to dive into this history–sometimes very patchy history–to figure out the full extent of slavery in the Muslim world, from the very start of Muslim society, through the Ottoman Empire and the Barbary Pirates, to abolition and the final decision by Mauritania to abolish slavery in 1981. Justin Marozzi is a former Financial Times and Economist foreign correspondent. He is also the author of several books, including Baghdad: City of Peace, City of Blood (Allen Lane: 2014) and Islamic Empires: The Cities that Shaped the Modern World (Pegasus Books: 2020). You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Captives and Companions. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/islamic-studies
Slavery has been a ubiquitous practice throughout much of world history–and the Muslim world was no exception. Slave soldiers, concubines, and eunuchs can be found throughout Muslim writings—which, as Justin Marozzi points out in his book Captives and Companions: A History of Slavery and the Slave Trade in the Islamic World (Pegasus Books, 2025), ends up giving us a selective and narrow view of who slaves were, and what they did. Justin tries to dive into this history–sometimes very patchy history–to figure out the full extent of slavery in the Muslim world, from the very start of Muslim society, through the Ottoman Empire and the Barbary Pirates, to abolition and the final decision by Mauritania to abolish slavery in 1981. Justin Marozzi is a former Financial Times and Economist foreign correspondent. He is also the author of several books, including Baghdad: City of Peace, City of Blood (Allen Lane: 2014) and Islamic Empires: The Cities that Shaped the Modern World (Pegasus Books: 2020). You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Captives and Companions. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies
Join Artie Intel and Micheline Learning as they dive deep into the most jaw-dropping developments in artificial intelligence, uncovering the future today. From billion-dollar AI infrastructure shakeups and record-breaking research milestones, to the rise of AI music that fools 97% of listeners and heartwarming stories of love blossoming between humans and AI companions. The AI Report brings you the hot new tools, mind-blowing breakthroughs, and real-world impact shaping our planet's AI revolution. Tune in for exclusive updates and thought-provoking discussions that keep you ahead in the age of intelligent machines!
Slavery has been a ubiquitous practice throughout much of world history–and the Muslim world was no exception. Slave soldiers, concubines, and eunuchs can be found throughout Muslim writings—which, as Justin Marozzi points out in his book Captives and Companions: A History of Slavery and the Slave Trade in the Islamic World (Pegasus Books, 2025), ends up giving us a selective and narrow view of who slaves were, and what they did. Justin tries to dive into this history–sometimes very patchy history–to figure out the full extent of slavery in the Muslim world, from the very start of Muslim society, through the Ottoman Empire and the Barbary Pirates, to abolition and the final decision by Mauritania to abolish slavery in 1981. Justin Marozzi is a former Financial Times and Economist foreign correspondent. He is also the author of several books, including Baghdad: City of Peace, City of Blood (Allen Lane: 2014) and Islamic Empires: The Cities that Shaped the Modern World (Pegasus Books: 2020). You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Captives and Companions. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/asian-review
Suffering is inevitable in this life. There is hardship. There is pain. But somehow through the working of the Spirit of God, these difficult things can be transformed with one little addition: the presence of a friend. Join us again this week as we continue our series, The Six Kinds of Friends You Need These Days.
My guest today is Graham Segroves.Graham is a leadership learning strategist and ICF Master Certified Coach (MCC) with deep expertise in leadership development - including manager development, executive coaching, and assessment across global organizations. He helps leaders and their teams thrive with positive impact amid complexity and change. Graham works to break silos with courage to integrate meaningful solutions that create improvement for people and systems. As a leader, Graham has empowered and inspired others to deliver results in diverse industries, including manufacturing, government, and international organizations.Career Highlights:-- Internal Executive Coaching: 5 years as a full-time internal executive coach at Boeing, supporting leaders at all levels, including senior executives, high-potential talent, and senior managers.-- Corporate Leadership: Departed internal coach role to return to leadership in a corporate setting; responsible first for DEI, later for global leadership development.-- Private Practice: Founded a successful coaching and teaching practice, supporting leaders across diverse industries in navigating complex transitions and deepening leadership impact.-- Government Leadership: Led national security teams at the CIA and developed technical leaders and people leaders under high-stakes, high-pressure conditions.Our conversation today explores transitions, changes, and transformations.Connect with Graham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamsegrovesSupport the showMake Life Less Difficult~ Support:buymeacoffee.com/lisatilstra
Behind the Screen: The Impact of AI Companions on Adolescents Evaluation and Credit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/medchat84 Target Audience This activity is targeted toward primary care physicians and advanced providers. Statement of Need This will be a two-part podcast that will focus on the psychological effects of cyberbullying and AI companions. This will be specific to adolescents and teens. As a result of the growing prevalence in digital engagement, a by-product has been cyberbullying. The psychological effects of cyberbullying are unique in that they differ from traditional bullying due to the anonymity and permanence. Additionally, with the growing popularity of AI companions a second podcast will address this topic. Both podcasts will address the psychological effects and provide tools for providers to use to screen for subtle signs as well as resources. Objectives Define what constitutes an AI companion and differentiate from interactive AI-enabled toys. Discuss how frequent interaction with AI companions can influence psychological and social development of adolescents and teens. Identify behavioral and psychological signs that may indicate an adolescent/teen has or is developing an unhealthy reliance on AI companions. Moderator Mark McDonald, M.D., MHA, CPE System Vice President Pediatric Medical Affairs Norton Healthcare Medical Director, Norton Children's Professor, University of Louisville School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics Division of Pediatric Critical Care Speaker Michael Eiden, Ph.D, LCSW, LCADC, CSAT, CCSMichael Eiden, PhD, LCSW, LCADC, CSAT, CCS Licensed Clinical Social Worker Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Certified Clinical Supervisor Board Certified Sex Therapist EMDR Trained Eiden Integrative Counseling Planner and Moderator Disclosures The planners, moderator and speaker of this activity do not have any relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose. Commercial Support There was no commercial support for this activity. GrantThis episode is supported by a grant from the Kentucky Medical Association's 'Small STEPS, Big Impact' campaign, a two-year initiative that encourages patients to achieve long-term success through taking simple steps that can add up to make a big impact on their health. The campaign focuses on five key areas (screenings, tobacco use, exercise & nutrition, physician visits and stress) and offers straightforward strategies and support for patients. It is a partnership between the KMA and its charitable arm, the Kentucky Foundation for Medical, made possible by a grant from the Kentucky Department for Public Health. For more information, visit SmallSTEPSKy.org. Physician Credits Accreditation Norton Healthcare is accredited by the Kentucky Medical Association to provide continuing medical education for physicians. Designation Norton Healthcare designates this enduring material for a maximum of .50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. Nursing CreditsNorton Healthcare Institute for Education and Development is approved as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the South Carolina Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation. This continuing professional development activity has been approved for 0.50 ANCC CE contact hours. In order for nursing participants to obtain credits, they must claim attendance by attesting to the number of hours in attendance. For more information related to nursing credits, contact Sally Sturgeon, DNP, RN, SANE-A, AFN-BC at (502) 446-5889 or sally.sturgeon@nortonhealthcare.org. Social Worker CreditsThis activity will provide .50 hours of required continuing education units. National Association of Social Workers, Kentucky Chapter (NASW-KY) is an approved provider for social work credits through the Kentucky Board of Social Work. NASWKY#06/30/25. For information about social worker credits, please send an email to cme@nortonhealthcare.org. Resources for Additional Study/References Internet Addiction Assessment (IAA) https://psychology-tools.com/test/internet-addiction-assessment Parent Tools – Operation Parent https://www.operationparent.org/ Parent Tools – Children and Screens https://www.childrenandscreens.org/ Digital companionship or psychological risk? The role of AI characters in shaping youth mental health https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39798495/ Artificial Intelligence and Adolescent Well-being https://www.apa.org/topics/artificial-intelligence-machine-learning/health-advisory-ai-adolescent-well-being SmallSTEPSKy.org Date of Original Release | Nov. 2025; Information is current as of the time of recording. Course Termination Date | Nov. 2027 Contact Information | Center for Continuing Medical Education; (502) 446-5955 or cme@nortonhealthcare.org Also listen to Norton Healthcare's podcast Stronger After Stroke. This podcast, produced by the Norton Neuroscience Institute, discusses difficult topics, answers frequently asked questions and provides survivor stories that provide hope. Norton Healthcare, a not for profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.
The Moon shoots the gap between some bright companions tonight: the planet Jupiter and the star Pollux, the brighter “twin” of Gemini. They climb into good view by about 10:30 or 11, and stand high overhead at dawn tomorrow. Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system, and it has the most turbulent atmosphere. Hurricane-like storms as big as continents twirl across it. Thunderstorms can produce lightning bolts far more powerful than any on Earth, as recorded by a passing spacecraft. And the storms might produce their own giant hailstones: “mushballs” as big as softballs. The idea was first proposed in 2020. And a study published earlier this year supports it. The study used observations by the Juno spacecraft, which is orbiting Jupiter, along with Hubble Space Telescope and a radio telescope on Earth The study says the mushballs may begin as droplets of frozen water far below the cloud deck. They get caught in updrafts that howl at 200 miles an hour. They’re carried to the tops of the clouds, which can be tens of miles thick. Along the way, the ice mixes with ammonia, forming a slushy liquid. When the balls get heavy enough, they begin to drop. As they descend, they’re coated with fresh ice, giving them a hard shell around a slushy middle – mushballs. The mushballs plunge hundreds of miles below the clouds, where they vaporize – “mushing” into the depths of the giant planet. Script by Damond Benningfield
Eugenia Kuyda, CEO of Wabi and AI pioneer behind Replika, joins Erik, Anish, and Justine to reveal how personal software will transform from a developer monopoly to a creative medium for all. She exposes why command-line AI interfaces are the new MS-DOS, explains how mini-apps will become as shareable as TikToks, and details her decade-long journey from training language models in 2012 to building the platform where your mom can create custom apps in minutes. Plus: untold stories from OpenAI's apartment days and why voice-only devices completely miss the point. Resources:Follow Eugenia on X: https://x.com/ekuydaFollow Anish on X: https://x.com/illscience Stay Updated: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Podcast on SpotifyListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Latchi Ratyi Miro Amal, Good Evening Friend! You're listening to the Fifth Season of O Verda Darano! Hosted by Count Kalman Boross. Esma Kallai is travelling realms beyond human comprehension at this time. We go Beyond the Caravan, visiting fiends from around the country and globe, Roma and Gadje alike. We'll talk with businesses, wildlife efforts, and true characters that will surely entrance your ears with each passing minute!The air has chilled, the trees have fashioned their autumnal burial shrouds of reds and yellows, and all manners of ghouls have clawed their way back to your doorstep. All Hallow's Eve is upon us, miro amal… the veil is thin and the dead are just aching to join us…I happen to have a fondness for this next vict- I mean, friend, as she shares a hunger likened to my own. Companions, I speak of Professor Madeline Potter. A fellow Rom hailing from Edinburgh. From what I've gathered thus far, she has a fascination with two wonderful subjects- gothic literature… and vampires. I must say, it's been a rather revealing conversation, if you understand my meaning… Oh, don't look so shocked, you just realized why I coaxed you into entering this verda? Death is inevitable for you, yet this conversation is teeming with terror that I'm just gnawing ravenously to hear. Shun…You can find Professor Madeline Potter's socials here:https://www.madeline-potter.com/Madeline.potter@ed.ac.ukIG, Twitter/X: @madeline_cctBluesky: @madelinepotter.bsky.socialas well as her books:Roma: A Traveling History: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-roma-madeline-potter?variant=43213424361506Theological Monsters: https://www.uwp.co.uk/book/theological-monsters-potter/Be prepared to travel to places and dimensions not suited for man or beast! Dead Scared Entertainment brings you fear you can hear! A brand-new concoction of Roma storytelling through a broadcast-style podcast.Click on our Linktree to stay connected with all things DSE: https://linktr.ee/deadscaredentIf you aren't already, follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @deadscaredentertainment
Why do pets matter so much — especially as we get older?
As AI “friends” become more common, what are our kids really learning about friendship? In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack Meta's new chatbot update and explore how true friendships form character, resilience, and faith. Learn how to help your kids value real people over artificial connection—and why Jesus' definition of friendship changes everything.
This week, Gov. Gavin Newsom of California signed a big package of A.I. and social media bills into law — including the first state law in the United States to regulate A.I. companions. We talk through what stood out to us in the package and whether these protections will work. Then, the subpoena that has the whole tech world talking. Nathan Calvin, general counsel at Encode, an A.I. safety advocacy group that has been critical of OpenAI, talks with us about why he thinks the company is investigating him. And finally, grab your opera glasses. It's time for the first edition of The Hard Fork Review of Slop.Guests:Nathan Calvin, vice president of state affairs and general counsel at EncodeAdditional Reading:California Regulates A.I. CompanionsOpenAI Thinks Its Critics Are Funded by Billionaires. Now It's Going After Them.We want to hear from you. Email us at hardfork@nytimes.com. Find “Hard Fork” on YouTube and TikTok. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.
Mike "Large" McCarthy sits down with Trish for a trip down memory lane. Together discuss their beginnings at Barstool, working together on Barstool Breakfast, and how the company has changed since they were hired. Large also discusses his 25 years on Wall Street, drug use on the floor of the American Stock exchange, Gen Z's lack of work ethic, and his future at the company. Plus, the two break down which Barstool employee's are the best and worst to travel with. That and more!!You can find every episode of this show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Prime Members can listen ad-free on Amazon Music. For more, visit barstool.link/outandabout