Podcasts about complications

Get 15% off OneSkin with the code LAWNERD at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpod #adThere are "rumblings" of Karen Read signing both a movie deal, with Alan Jackson involved, and a book deal. Special prosecutor Hank Brennan has billed the taxpayers of Massachusetts over $500,000 for his time. Karen Read's defense attorney, Alan Jackson, has sent a letter demanding that Boston Police Officer Kelly Dever be added to the Brady list due to credibility issues. Justin Baldoni's team did not refile their counter-claims against Blake Lively's lawsuit, though his alleged facts will still be used in his defense. A hearing is set for July 15th regarding disputes over Lively's deposition, including its location, attendees, and protective orders.The media coalition has requested its lifting, arguing Kohberger's waiver of appellate rights and guilty plea negate the original concerns about a fair jury. A Zoom hearing is set for July 17th at 10:30 AM MT.Tom Girardi is set to surrender to federal prison on July 17th for an 87-month sentence. His lawyers filed a motion for bond pending appeal, but the hearing for this motion is set after his surrender date, and they did not clear the date with the court. The court has directed both parties to confer by July 14th to identify an available hearing date. The divorce case, pending since 2020, is at risk of being dismissed due to inactivity. A hearing is set for August 1st, 2025, where Erika's attorney needs to file a dismissal or judgment, or show cause for the delay. Complications arise due to Tom's conservatorship and assets being tied up in bankruptcy cases.We'll discuss Donna Adelson this week.RESOURCESKaren Read Retrial Day 25 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agSsaDTCZJc Special prosecutor in Karen Read retrial billed DA's office over $500K - https://www.nbcboston.com/investigations/special-prosecutor-in-karen-read-retrial-billed-das-office-566k/3764071/ Justin Baldoni opts out of amending claims against Blake Lively - https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/amp/culture/story/blake-lively-justin-baldoni-legal-battle-timeline-117430951 Baldoni Lawsuit Dismissed? - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhYuhlpQ6YAKohberger Stream July 10 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy9rHg9m4xkTom Girardi Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsbUyvZas7gIvaPnEfilr35PrLPfq01qz Depp v. Heard Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsbUyvZas7gLVeg1x2AInDBfPU6-ffnD0Amber Heard Legal Fees - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTHuaB8Fde0 This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-policy/Podscribe - https://podscribe.com/privacy

LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. More thoughts on OB Learning 12-leads Paralytic choices ALS for AMS Cash RE, Kaimal AJ, Samuels-Kalow ME, Boggs KM, Swanton MF, Camargo CA Jr. Epidemiology of Emergency Medical Services-Attended out-of-Hospital Deliveries and Complications in the United States. Prehosp Emerg Care. 2024;28(7):890-897. Dexter F, Epstein RH, Wachtel RE, Rosenberg H. Estimate of the relative risk of succinylcholine for triggering malignant hyperthermia. Anesth Analg. 2013 Jan;116(1):118-22. Nunnally ME, O'Connor MF, Kordylewski H, Westlake B, Dutton RP. The incidence and risk factors for perioperative cardiac arrest observed in the national anesthesia clinical outcomes registry. Anesth Analg. 2015 Feb;120(2):364-70.

Summer is in full swing, so Armand and Tim are diving into their favorite watches for the season. They explore water resistance for beach getaways, bold pops of color to complement your outfit, and complications that track the tides. Expect standout pieces from Omega, Cartier, Ulysse Nardin, and many more. Please Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@1916company/?sub_confirmation=1 Download the app: https://onelink.to/8u2bgh Buy Watches Here: https://www.the1916company.com View hands-on luxury watch reviews on The 1916 Company Watch Reviews: https://www.youtube.com/@the1916companywatchreviews/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the1916company

In this episode of Bondcast, Joann Spadigam and Stuart Sparks discuss the current state of tariffs and trade deals, particularly in relation to the US and Europe. Might markets be underestimating recent developments? They also analyse why US monetary policy and fiscal policy need to find an equilibrium, and explore the impact of demographic changes on debt sustainability. The discussion also covers the outlook for European markets amid global fiscal pressures and the potential for inflationary trends to complicate the picture.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 10 July 2025.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html

It's 2 a.m. The on-call resident's voice is shaky. The CT shows an 18cm abdominal aortic aneurysm with a Type 1B endoleak. There's gas in the sac, fluid in the belly, and the patient has a defibrillator on both sides of his chest. Is it a rupture? A graft infection? An aortoenteric fistula? All of the above? You're the vascular surgeon, what do you do?  This episode dives deep into decision-making when EVAR fails, when infection strikes, and when the patient might not survive a definitive repair. Let's talk about what happens when clinical textbooks meet real-world chaos. Hosts: ·      Christian Hadeed -PGY 4 General Surgery, Brookdale Hospital Medical Center ·      Paul Haser -Division chief, Vascular Surgery, Brookdale Hospital Medical Center ·      Andrew Harrington, Vascular surgery, Brookdale Hospital Medical Center ·      Lucio Flores, Vascular surgery, Brookdale Hospital Medical Center Learning objectives: · Understand the clinical implications and management of late EVAR complications, including Type 1B endoleak and aortoenteric fistula. · Explore the decision-making process in critically ill patients with multiple comorbidities and infected aortic grafts. · Compare endovascular vs open surgical approaches in the setting of infected AAA, and when each is appropriate. · Recognize the role of multidisciplinary collaboration in complex vascular cases. · Discuss the ethical considerations and goals-of-care planning in high-risk, potentially terminal vascular patients. · Highlight the importance of long-term surveillance after EVAR and the consequences of noncompliance. References ·       Karl Sörelius et al.Nationwide Study of the Treatment of Mycotic Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Comparing Open and Endovascular Repair.Circulation. 2016;134(22):1822–1832. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27799273/ pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15researchgate.net+15 ·       PARTNERS Trial (OVER Trial).Outcomes Following Endovascular vs Open Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Randomized Trial.JAMA. 2009;302(14):1535–1542. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19826022/ pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+6pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+6jamanetwork.com+6 ·       B.T. Müller et al.Mycotic Aneurysms of the Thoracic and Abdominal Aorta and Iliac Arteries: Experience with Anatomic and Extra-anatomic Repair in 33 Cases.J Vasc Surg. 2001;33(1):106–113. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11137930/ sciencedirect.com+5pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+5periodicos.capes.gov.br+5 ·       Chung‑Dann Kan et al.Outcome after Endovascular Stent Graft Treatment for Mycotic Aortic Aneurysm: A Systematic Review.J Vasc Surg. 2007 Nov;46(5):906–912. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17905558/ researchgate.net+15pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15 ·       Hamid Gavali et al.Outcome of Radical Surgical Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Graft and Endograft Infections Comparing Extra‑anatomic Bypass with In Situ Reconstruction: A Nationwide Multicentre Study.Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 2021;62(6):918–926. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34782231/ pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+6pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+6diva-portal.org+6  Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

In this episode of Clinical Unfiltered, Dr. Sausha and Dr. Varisha Parikh tackle the real-life challenges behind implant dentistry when things don't go as planned. From tricky removals to unexpected complications, they share candid stories, hands-on tips, and practical advice for managing setbacks in the operatory. The discussion highlights the importance of staying adaptable, knowing when to ask for help, and using the right tools for the job. With a focus on honest conversations and continuous growth, this episode is a must-listen for any clinician navigating the ups and downs of implant work.

Welcome to our miniseries on common claims within veterinary medicine. This week we are joined again by Dr. Kara Escutia but this time we are discussing common feline claims. Dr. Escutia is an AVMA Trust veterinarian and helps review veterinary claims every day. She shares the top three feline claims they see and different ways to navigate these situations. These include anesthetic complications, human injuries and communication errors. It is a great conversation with a lot of helpful tips and insights.Thank you to our podcast partner, NVA General Practice, a community of 1,000 neighborhood veterinary clinics across the U.S. and Canada. Learn how NVA invests in your career journey at https://GP.NVA.com Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Are your readers bored? Disappointed? Confused? Here's what that tells you about your story's middle.You're stuck in the messy middle. Languishing in the doldrums of your story. The inciting incident is long past, the climax is so far ahead you can't see it over the horizon, and you're drifting, lost at sea.What is actually supposed to happen here?Where did your plot momentum go?Why do your pages feel full of stuff, and yet nothing ever happens?The answers to all those questions lie in your progressive complications. Specifically, something's going wrong in your progressive complications.In this episode, I'm digging even deeper into the progressive complications.I'm sharing the seven most common traps I see, the impact they have on your story and your readers, and of course, how to fix them so you can make your story unputdownable from beginning to end.You'll learn:How to diagnose the problem in your story's middle based on how your reader feelsHow to spot “fluff” that isn't moving your story forwardHow coincidences work in stories—and what happens when they don't workWhat happens when a story has no progressive complications at allAnd more!And don't miss the free cheat sheet that goes with this episode! Print it and keep it handy as you're editing.Here's the thing: the middle of a story isn't an inscrutable secret. This episode is your guide to spot the most common traps and free your story from them.Links mentioned in the episode:Get the Progressive Complication Revision Cheat Sheet: alicesudlow.com/88 Work with me: alicesudlow.com/contactEp. 87: Make Sense of Your Messy Middle With the Most Underrated Story ElementSend me a Text Message!Want my support in your revision?In Story Clarity, we'll work one-on-one to sharpen your story's structure and craft a revision plan that works. If you're ready for thoughtful, personalized feedback from an editor who gets what you're trying to do, I'd love to hear what you're working on.Get started by telling me about your story here. Support the showRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Alice and Your Next Draft." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more writers through the mess—and joy—of the editing process. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap the stars to rate, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Loving the show? Show your support with a monthly contribution »

Shayne Iti said his 15-year-old daughter Katie Margaret Iti died on Saturday in Hutt Hospital from complications of influenza B. He spoke to reporter Natalie Akoorie.

A 15-year-old died from complications of influenza B on Saturday. Otago University epidemiologist, Professor Michael Baker spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

This episode of Kiwi Birth Tales is proudly brought to you by Your Birth Project - the online Hypnobirthing course you need to create your best birth. In this episode of Kiwi Birth Tales, I speak to Sophie. Some of the topics we cover:Coming off the pillOpen minded about birth preferences Partial break in watersExtra lobe on placentaUnmedicated water birth in hospital Messy 2nd degree tear with 3rd degree aspects Stiched in birth room then taking to surgery tor repair tearPainful postpartum period Reflux baby Nipple shields Bruising post birth 2nd pregnancy symptomsStretch and sweep at 4cm dilated Fast labour Grazing but no tears Unmedicated birth Complication with baby post birth Confired Group Strep B positive12 day hospital stay Your Birth Project Online Hypnobirthing Coursehttps://www.fertilityassociates.co.nz/book-a-free-nurse-consultPlease seek support for any mental health concerns, some helpful links are below:Mental Health in PregnancyPerinatal Depression and Anxiety Aotearoa Plunket - Dads Mental HealthLittle Shadow - Private Counselling NZFind me @kiwibirthtales and @yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Clinical Unfiltered, Dr. Sausha and Dr. V explore the complexities and potential complications of wisdom teeth extractions. They discuss worst-case scenarios, common issues like dry sockets and hematomas, and stress the importance of effective patient communication and follow-up care. Dr. V shares her protocols for managing complications and emphasizes the need for dental professionals to have a solid emergency plan and maintain hospital privileges. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding patient behavior and implementing preventive measures in oral surgery.

In this episode of The Doctor Youn Show, Dr. Anthony Youn sits down with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Emily Levin to break down what's hot—and what's hype—in the world of cosmetic treatments. From the buzz around “La Tebo,” a new Botox alternative, to the procedures your favorite celebrities might be getting, they dive into the latest trends shaping aesthetic medicine. You'll hear honest insights on how different neuromodulators stack up, the importance of safety and ethics in cosmetic care, and how to make informed choices in a world increasingly influenced by celebrity beauty standards. Whether you're considering your first treatment or just curious about what's new, this episode gives you real talk from trusted experts. Links and Resources: Learn More About Dermatologist Dr. Emily Levin: Dr. Emily Levin's Office Website: https://nw-derm.com/ Dr. Emily Levin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northwestderm_covetmedspa Where can you find more information about how to autojuvenate your skin to a younger you? Check out my new book, Younger For Life! It's available at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://autojuvenation.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you buy it now, you will receive over $100 in FREE gifts, including a $30 gift certificate for my online store ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠younbeauty.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Check out Dr. Youn's skincare products and nutritional supplements - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠younbeauty.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Download his FREE eGuide: "What to Eat to Look Younger" - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠dryoun.com/eat-look-younger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Dr. Youn on Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@tonyyounmd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Dr. Youn on YouTube - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/tonyyounmd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Dr. Youn on TikTok - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@doctoryoun⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Dr. Youn on Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@dryoun⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do expat couples divorce more than couples who live in their home countries? They certainly face different challenges. On this episode from our archives, writer and former expat Debra Bruno joins us to talk about her article Divorce Global Style: For Expat Marriages, Breaking Up is Harder to Do which appeared on the Wall Street Journal's Expat Blog. Find Debra Bruno on Instagram or at her website. ***The Bittersweet Life podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from our vast archives! Enjoy!*** ***Katy's sister Dana has recently been diagnosed with stage 4 agressive brain cancer. To help with the staggering medical costs—her specialist is outside her insurance network—as well of the costs of temporarily relocating to San Francsico for her treatments, please consider donating to her GoFundMe. Anything you can contribute will be extremely helpful. Thank you.*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: For the third year in a row, we are hosting an intimate group of listeners for a magical and unforgettable week in Rome, this October 2025! Discover the city with us as your guides, seeing a side to Rome tourists almost never see. Find out more here. ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an email to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our Patreon site to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click here to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our website.) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider Libsyn for your hosting service! Use this affliliate link to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: Subscribe to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click here to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on iTunes so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email here. You can also connect to us through Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Tag #thebittersweetlife with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with Episode 1: OUTSET BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more here or order on Amazon. TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to tour the city with Tiffany as your guide!

Did you hear about the guy who tried to pay his taxes with a smile? Unfortunately for him, the IRS still prefers cash.All jokes aside, failing to file your taxes for several years is no small matter—but it's not the end of the road, either. Kevin Cross joins us today with practical steps to help you get back on track.Kevin Cross is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who has headed CPA firms in Florida and now Georgia. He has studied the tax code extensively and specializes in representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).Start With the Present, Not the PastThe further you fall behind, the more difficult it is to catch up. But rather than beginning with the year you first missed, he recommends filing your most recent return first—say, 2024—and working backward as needed. This shows the IRS that you're attempting to come into compliance, not ignoring your obligations.Falling behind on taxes is more common than most people think. Life events like divorce, disability, job loss, or even the rise of gig work can trigger tax complications. For example, many gig workers receive a 1099 for the first time, try to file using online software, and are shocked to discover they owe thousands. Rather than seek help, they freeze—and the following year's return also goes unfiled.Of course, COVID didn't help as many people have been struggling since then to get back on track.Do You Always Have to File?A common misunderstanding is that you must always file. If you're not going to owe anything, you don't have to file. That includes many senior citizens who live solely on Social Security.However, if you're due a refund, you have up to three years to file and claim it. Miss that window, and the refund is forfeited.Importantly, there's a difference between not filing and not paying. Sometimes you don't know what you owe—or if you owe—until you file.Even if you don't owe taxes on the sale of a primary residence, for example, the IRS won't know that unless you file. If you don't, you might receive a letter saying you owe thousands in capital gains tax—money you could've avoided paying.How to Begin the ProcessIf you're unsure how many years you've missed, a good first step is to request a Wage and Income Transcript from the IRS. This document shows all your reported income—W-2s, 1099s, Social Security, retirement distributions, and more. You can request it through the IRS website by searching for “IRS wage and income transcript.”Even with transcripts in hand, deciphering them can be complicated. That's why we strongly recommend seeking help from a CPA or tax professional familiar with IRS representation. You may not know what to do with what you find. You can find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) in your area who specializes in tax planning and preparation by going to FaithFi.com and clicking “Find a Professional”. Also, it's helpful to know that the IRS's own handbook, the Internal Revenue Manual, usually requires only the last six years of returns to be filed. That's a helpful limit for those unsure where to begin.The IRS Will Work With YouDon't let fear keep you stuck. The IRS can work with you. Options include payment plans or even an offer in compromise, which may reduce your total tax liability.Filing late taxes doesn't have to be terrifying. With the right help and a step-by-step plan, you can get back on track—and even experience peace of mind. The IRS just wants to see you trying. Start with today, and take it one step at a time.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a TIAA retirement account from my husband's time as an adjunct professor at a local community college. It's a small amount. As I'm 76, I'm required to set aside a certain amount each year. I would like to give this to my son now so that those amounts can stay in the account and start accruing interest. Can I do that?We have a credit card balance of $15,000 with an interest rate of 11%. We try to pay $2,000 a month, but the balance keeps increasing. Part of the reason is that our 29-year-old daughter, who lives and works in London, has a card on our account. We initially gave her the card for emergencies and plane tickets home, but she's using it for other expenses, such as occasional Ubers and travel. We want to pay off this card, but we're making no progress. What can we do?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Kevin Cross (CPA)Internal Revenue Service (IRS.gov)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

In this episode, editor-in-chief Joseph E. Safdieh, MD, FAAN, highlights articles studies showing persistent fatigue after TIA, the neurologic complications of measles, and the impact of the dismantling of a CDC surveillance program of epilepsy.

Quaranteam – Book 1: Part 12 The girls continue their pitches to Andy. Based on a post by CorruptingPower, in 25 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels. Nicolette smiled, shaking her head a bit. "I split from Josh the week after the party, because, well, it's not important, beyond the fact that he was a fucking asshole and I was sick of dealing with it. I haven't seen him in years now, and it's actually better that way. If he's dead, good, good riddance, fuck him, he deserved it. As for her partner, well, Bill wasn't a bad guy, although I never really talked much to him, or should I say I wasn't much permitted to talk to him, because he was from the old school of domination, with the leather whip and the iron fist, and he didn't like submissives giving him any back talk. Whitney was mostly happy with him, although she'd admitted to me a couple of times that she could've done without Bill's sadistic streak of inflicting pain on her. Pain wasn't really her thing. She didn't mind it from time to time, but it wasn't something she got off on. Bill did. But Bill died from the virus in April, leaving Whitney sort of lost and directionless." "I'm certainly not into inflicting pain on people, Nicolette, but I don't know that even on my best or worst days I could be fairly described as a dom." Nicolette giggled and waggled a finger in his direction. "You might have the other girls fooled, Master, but not me, and frankly, I don't think Ash buys it either. When I was pitching this to her yesterday, I pointed out to her that sexuality is, well, it's sort of like a menu at a Cheesecake Factory “ there are so many options that you are bound to find things you like just every once in a while, instead of every day. And you are a good and kind man, but I've also seen that sometimes you just want to take something, to claim something. There is a beast in you raging to get out, and I've tried to make sure I'm around to fill that need for you. We all heard it when you were having your first go at Taylor, and even Niko told me afterwards she thought you were holding back a little, like you were worried we might judge you for it, but your household loves you and trusts you, Master." The maid pushed the button and the image changed again, showing a head on almost portfolio picture of Whitney, her wrists bound together in rope, a collar around her neck, still wearing a bra, her hair pulled back into a ponytail, a very lustful look in her icy blue eyes drilling straight into the camera. "She took this photo just for you, Master. Nobody other than the three of us has seen it. Not only does she want to join the staff, she wants you to collar her. Hell, she said if you wanted to, she would even get tattooed or branded for you." "Branded?" Andy gasped suddenly. "I would never!" "Oh, I told her that, and she said that just made you sound even more dreamy, but wanted you to have that option on the table. She doesn't want to be one of your wives, because she says that would put her on equal level with you. She wants to belong to you. She's always going to be submissive, but do you have any idea how hard it's going to be for a single submissive woman to find a sexual partner right now, much less one who isn't a complete asshole? The biggest problem with the BDSM scene, in my eyes anyway, is that too many people don't respect boundaries, that they aren't respectful of one another. Whitney's never going to feel bad about not getting to sleep in your bed, but if you tell her to one night, she will, gladly, as long as it doesn't become a habit. When it comes to the house, she will be the kind of control freak you need running your digital life, but all that desperate need for control, that's why she likes to be completely out of control when it comes to her sexuality. Wearing a collar from you isn't a mark of shame; it's a thing of pride and beauty for her. And all of the women you have in this house, Master, they're all such wonderful and warm women, friendly and inviting, and even though we've told them time and time and time again that we're merely the staff, they're still treating us as friends, because we are their friends, even if we still work for you." Andy had been listening to all of this very intently, because the expression on Nicolette's face wasn't one of concern, but one of excitement, of enthusiasm, of pride. "Why'd she take a picture just for me?" "Because after Bill died half a year ago, she was aimless, and I got, well, to be blunt, I got very worried about her. I couldn't go and check up on her because of the quarantine, but we FaceTimed every day. We still do. And I've told her all about this house, about you, Master, and all your amazing partners, and about a month ago, Whitney started saying something I've been hearing a lot from her lately. 'I wish I had what you have.' She was waking up from her fugue state over the loss of Bill, and she wanted something again, for the first time in months. She wasn't just thinking about what her next meal was, or how to solve some routing problem at work. She had a genuine desire to introduce something, someone into her life again. You. This. All of this," the maid said, gesturing around her. "You two sound very close," Ash said. "I don't know that you made it clear to me just how close when you were presenting to me for practice." Nicolette nodded. "She's, well, she's probably my best friend, the person I can be myself with the most, and I'm worried about her. You have to understand, she's like an old watch that's been wound up too tightly. When I say she's a control freak, I might be understating the case, but before now she's always had that release valve of having Bill to take over for at least a few hours every week, where she wasn't allowed to have any control, and through that, all that pressure got released. You can give that to her again, Master." "Do you really think I'm a good match for her sexually?" Andy said. "I'd hate to bring her here and disappoint her." The French girl's face spread into a mischievous grin. "Like I said, Master, Whitney's going to be like me, not an everyday food, but definitely a delicious treat that you simply must indulge in now and then. And I'm a very good judge of character, so I want you to try and look me in the eyes and tell me that the idea of having a woman who literally will not lift a finger until you tell her to do so doesn't turn you on at least a little bit, to have such total control over a woman that she is waiting with baited breath for you to give her a command. I'll bet everything I own that you can't." Andy smirked and blushed a little bit. "I'm not sure there's many men who could say that. I certainly wouldn't want that if she didn't want that but,” Nicolette nodded vigorously. "But she does, she absolutely, positively, definitively does want that. From you. I think the biggest challenge you'd have with her is the feelings you'd have when you put the collar on her, because I can tell you, her one and only demand is that you collar her when she arrives, and that she only ever takes the collar off to bathe. I know you're going to have reservations about it, which is why I'm spending so much time reassuring you that this is ultimately what she wants. It's an odd thing for a man who describes himself as a feminist to do, collaring a woman, but realize, you are giving her what she wants “ the ability to not have to think for a bit." Ash grinned a little bit. "You forgot to tell him the final thing." Nicolette held her fingers to her mouth, trying to stifle a giggle once more, as she nodded. She then picked up the remote and clicked the button again, as the image advanced one more time. At first, Andy thought the image was the same, but then he saw it, resting atop of her bound wrists. A first edition of "The Demon Dies At Midnight," a small press book he'd done for himself before he'd started writing the Druid Gunslinger books, in many ways the precursor to the whole series. It was a short novel, more of a novella really, that Andy had written just to sort of test the idea of writing long form fiction, and while it shared some similarities with the Druid Gunslinger books, it was a stand alone tale about a freelance demon hunter who traveled the world, trying to find the demon that had laid a curse on him when he was a child. Andy had used a print on demand service for the book, and only 2000 copies had been sold before he had found a publisher for all his work, starting with the Druid Gunslinger books. His publisher had scooped up the rights to his first book along with the Druid Gunslinger books. Once they did, Andy had stopped the print on demand version of it, so those 2000 were all that was ever going to be printed with that cover, a touch more erotic than the publisher was comfortable with. He'd looked and the first editions were worth several hundred dollars on the secondary market now, even though copies of the second edition, the one done by his current publisher with its less racy cover, were available for ten bucks. "She's a fan of yours, Master, going back to the beginning. You can't see it, but that copy of your book is signed, by you, when you were doing signings in Santa Cruz." "She would've been living in Chicago when that book came out!" Andy laughed. "So you can't me she's been a fan of mine since then." "Oh, she bought it on the secondary market a couple of years ago, when she first started getting into your writing, long before I met you. She said it was worth it to have the original rather than a second edition. She reads loads and loads of sci fi and fantasy, but says you're an excellent writer, one of her favorites. When she found out you were my Master, she begged and pleaded with me to find some way for her to be able to join me. I told her I would keep my eye open for an opportunity, but that I didn't want to be disrespectful and ask you on my own." Andy clicked his tongue, shaking his head. "I told you that you could come to me with anything, Nicolette." "I know you did, Master, and thank you for that, but you have been wall to wall busy since you first arrived here a month or so ago, and there just never seemed to be an opportune moment until Hannah started talking to us about you being able to request people, which brings us all up to speed, here and now," she said, gesturing to the image behind her. "I don't just think she's an obvious yes, Master, I think she's the most obvious yes. And if you need a little help stoking the fires of the shades of a controlling bastard that hide inside that warm soul, you know I'm always willing to lend a hand or whatever you might need. Whitney and I have played together sexually before, and if she comes here, I have no doubt that she and I will be play partners again. You have a lot of amazing women on offer for you here, but this one has to be a slam dunk. Thanks for giving me the chance to introduce you to my best friend, and I can't wait to hear you tell me to invite her over." The maid pressed the button and the image of Whitney disappeared to be replaced by "Next: Niko" in white letters on a black background as she stood up and made her way to the door. Andy leaned over to Aisling. "Give me 5 10 minutes, okay?" Aisling grinned and nodded. "You're the boss, boss." He stood up quickly and made his way out into the hallway, closing the door behind him, as he moved quickly to catch up to Nicolette, just as she was about to reach the stairwell leading upstairs. "One sec, Nicolette," Andy said, "I have one more question for you." Nicolette smiled as she turned back to him, standing at the edge of the stairs. "Of course, Master, what can I " As soon as he was within reach of her, he grabbed her by the waist and spun her around, bending her forward until her back was nearly perpendicular with the wall, lifting her dress up and tugging her panties aside with one hand, unbuttoning his jeans with another. Before it even dawned on her what was happening, he lined the head of his cock up against her snatch and just shoved forward with one rough, penetrating thrust, sinking hilt deep as a groan was ripped from her throat, deep and sultry. "Was this what you wanted?" "Fuck yes, Master!" she whined, as he drew back and then thrust forward again with a harsh shove, forcing her cunt to swallow up his cock. Her hands reached before her, trying to brace herself, as he reached forward and grabbed her by the throat, making her stand upright, even while scooting forward as best she can, until her tits were mashed against the wall, her face tilted towards the ceiling, when he drew back and then punched forward again. "Is it wrong of me that your filthy little fuckmaid has been fingering her sloppy cunt thinking of her Master slamfucking her best friend?" Andy couldn't help but laugh about that, as he drew back again. "Is that the only thing you've been thinking about?" "Fuck!" she whimpered as he railed her again, lifting one of her legs to allow him to penetrate a little bit deeper. "You know that it isn't, Master. Your bratty little slut thinks about you all the time, imagining her Master doing so many dirty things to her." He shifted his hips a little bit, making sure he was good and slick, before he pulled her away from the wall and then moved her over to a table, forcing her forward, yanking her panties down to her ankles before tugging it off of her entirely. He grabbed the lacy underthing in his hand and then bent her over the table, pushing her knees to make her get a little bit lower, and before it could even register what he was doing, the head of his thick cock pressed against the rosebud of her asshole and just sunk through, greasing its way deep inside of her ass, lubed up with the drippy juices from her cunt. "Fuck oh fuck oh fuck you're fucking thick, Master, that's such a big fucking cock you've shoved up my tight young ass!" Nicolette whimpered, her voice squealing upward in pitch until it was a shrill shriek, more like a siren than a person. "I've been dreaming about being your stuffed little buttslut, Master, so just fucking hammer me already!" Andy had a weird notion, and he decided to follow through on it, as he reached around and stuffed Nicolette's panties into her mouth, and he could swear she clamped down even more tightly in excitement. Her hands were free, so if she wanted to, she could've pulled them out any moment. And yet, she didn't. Instead, the moans burbling from her throat grew more intense, her hips trying to push her ass back into his firm thrusts as much as she could. She was throwing her body back at him any which way she was able, but for the most part, she was simply getting railed, keeping as much of his cock buried inside of her ass for as much of the time as she could. After a minute or so, she started spasming and clamping down on his cock, and he couldn't resist, so he unloaded a heavy load of cum into her asshole, sweat dripping from his forehead against the back of her neck, until he softened enough to slip out of that tight pucker. When he leaned back, he tucked his cock away and pulled up his boxers and jeans, zipping them up, a wry smile on his lips as Nicolette turned around, an incredibly satisfied look upon her face. She pulled her panties from her mouth and that wild grin was the happiest he'd ever seen on Nicolette's face before. "Now that is how you fucking use me, Master," she purred with as much sensuality as she could. "And you have fucking earned keeping these for a bit." She leaned forward and tucked her panties into the front pocket of his jeans. "And don't worry, I'll fish them out of the laundry later." She tipped her head up and kissed him for a moment. "Thanks so much for that! Jesus! Au revoir!" Andy took his hand and wiped sweat from his forehead and grinned a bit to himself as he watched her head up the stairs. "Well then. Job done." When Andy headed back into the room, he found Aisling waiting with a shit eating smirk on her face. "Got your release valve off with the hired help?" she teased. Andy blushed a little bit, realizing that the door wasn't all that thick, and that he had taken Nicolette not all that far from the room, but then he decided he had nothing to be embarrassed about. "Look, she made it abundantly clear what she wanted from me, and so I damn well gave it to her," he said with a laugh, as he moved to sit down in his chair. "It had been over a week for her anyway, so she was due. You can tell Niko we're ready for her now." Niko was practically coming through the door when he said it. "She already knows. She was enjoying listening in on you giving Nicolette exactly what's she's been waiting for for a week now," she giggled. "And she, uh, I, I'm here now. How's presentations been so far?" Andy was about to answer out of reflex when he felt Aisling's hand on his arm, and heard her say, "No dirty snooker from you, missy. He's not tellin' you nuffin'." "He was about to, though," she winked at the redhead. Niko was in her uniform, something Andy had rarely seen her in, even though she wore it nearly every day. When she headed to the base, she always left before he got up, and she changed out of the uniform before she came home, so it was a little surprising to see her decked out in the formal wear. Her hair was up and pinned back, and she even had the chest candy on her uniform, as she'd been known to call it. "Going to present someone from the base?" Andy asked, suspecting it was the reason for the uniform. "You got it," she said, picking up the remote as she pushed a button as the image changed to a rather stern looking blonde woman in her mid forties with a hawkish nose. "I want to introduce you to Captain Tracy Bells, sir. She's a, y'know, we could do the whole thing, Ash, or we could just,” "It's yer call, Niko," the Irish redhead said to her, a conspiratorial grin on her face. Niko nodded, then motioned for Ash to come and join her, which she did, throwing Andy completely off guard. "Look, I'm not pitching Captain Bells to you, Andy," Niko said with a smile. "Because frankly, she's got a giant stick up her ass. I don't really have anyone to pitch you at all, to be frank. That's not why I'm here. It's a pretense." Andy tilted his head to one side. "Then why are you taking up a pitch slot?" "Well, it seemed like the best time that Ash and I could get you all to ourselves. For this," she said, pushing the button, as the image changed. In its place was a selfie that clearly Niko had taken just a day or two earlier, of her and Aisling. They each seemed to be holding something in their free hands, and just as it was dawning on Andy what they were, both girls spoke at the same time. "We're Pregnant!" Andy pointed a finger at Aisling, who nodded, then over at Niko, who nodded as well, then kept jumping his fingertip back and forth between the two of them as they both kept nodding, wild smiles on their faces. "What, both of you?" "Yep!" Niko said, giggling, as both her and Aisling started walking around the table, one on each side of it, closing in on him like a planned maneuver, leaning against the table, pinning him in his spot. "Most of your girls have synched up their time clocks, love," Aisling said, "So it was bound to happen to a couple of us at the same time. Niko and I are just glad it's us first." "Well, we sort of made sure that we were," Niko giggled. "I thought you were both on birth control still!" he said, although the smile on his face made it clear he wasn't upset. "Did everyone stop taking their birth control?" Aisling shook her head. "So far, I think we're the only ones who have." "We both stopped taking them a few months ago," Niko said. "When I started seeing and hearing the horror stories about the hospitals while I was working on base, I knew that this was going to happen, this or something like it, so I told Aisling and we just stopped taking our birth control pills, and well, here we are!" "I ran into town for the tests Saturday morning, and wouldn't you know it, two buns in two ovens, all from one chef!" Aisling said, as Andy wrapped his arms around both of them, hugging them intensely tight. "And you're both happy? I know you both did this intentionally, but sometimes people get second thoughts. I'm not! Getting second thoughts that is. I mean, I'm happy, I promise you I'm happy, but I want to be sure you're both happy." "We're ecstastic, hon," Niko said to him, nuzzling her face against his cheek. "We weren't sure when the best time to tell you would be, but when the whole pitching process started, we wanted to be sure you understood that maybe getting a nanny into the house wasn't such a wild idea." "Who knows?" Andy asked. "Just us and you," Aisling said. "We haven't told anyone yet." Andy kissed Niko, then Aisling, then Niko again, then Aisling again. "It's damn nice to have to some good news for once. So, should we go get lunch and tell the rest of the household?" "Sounds good to me," Andy said. "Niko?" "Absolutely," Niko said. As they headed towards the door, she leaned over and pushed the button on the remote, changing the slide so it was a black screen again with the words "Next: Piper." The last of the girls' pitches to Andy. Chapter 26 Lunch had been great fun. Once Aisling and Niko had told Andy, they'd wanted to tell everyone as soon as possible, so the moment they'd sat down for lunch, they'd told everyone straight out, which had led into a small celebration, and sort of let Andy slip into the background with his thoughts. Sure, the girls all congratulated him, but they were all much more interested in how Niko and Ash were feeling about everything, so Andy could do a little bit of his own research. When he had half a minute, he asked Katie for both more about Lexi, and what she thought of Jade Dillon. He also did a little bit of talking with Sarah about Maya Steele, since clearly they ran in similar circles. When he had a moment, he also pinged Hannah to see if she'd heard anything about Olivia Shoemaker, Asha's "influencer" friend. Finally, he asked Jenny about Katie's ex, Dr. Morgan Fitch. By the end of lunch, he almost wished he'd brought his yellow notepad with him. It was a lot of names, a lot of opinions and thoughts to keep from getting scrambled around in his brain. But his own opinions were starting to bake in, to settle and coalesce into something more solid. His mind was so wrapped up in his thoughts, he almost overlooked how lunch was, as it always was, amazing. He made sure to tell Jenny just how excellent it was, and she said he could thank her by making sure to bring Alexis into the family. He didn't answer her, but his smile probably gave him away. He didn't mind. When they were walking back towards the meeting room, Aisling slipped her arm around his waist, leaned in and kissed his cheek. "You're happy Niko and I are expectin', right, love?" She had a smile on her face, so she was simply reinforcing what she already knew. "Sometimes you can bit understated 'bout these kinds of things." Andy chuckled a little, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "You know that I am, Ash. I'm sorry if I seemed a little distant at lunch. This is just a lot of information to take in all at once, lots of people to consider, lots of decisions to make. Shit, people's lives and livelihoods hang in the balance of my stupid judgment. The decisions I'm going to make tomorrow have real, genuine consequences, things I gotta live with for the rest of my life, and I don't want to let anyone down. Turning anyone down feels like  " "Stop," Ash said, holding him from walking any further. "I told you up front that nobody was going to hold anything against you, and we're all going to honor that. You didn't have to let anyone have a say, and you're letting everyone have a say. That's all anyone has the right to ask of you." She sighed, then laughed for a second. "Jaysis, if it was me, I'd have thrown the towel in and just taken nobody, but you're not doing that, despite the fact that nobody would've blamed you if you did. Instead, you set down what your reasonable capabilities are, and everyone agreed to them. So stop getting in your own damn way and just get on with it already." He had to laugh with her at that point, nodding in agreement. "Okay, okay, I get it. No more moping about this, and no more overthinking it. Just listen to the pitches, make my decisions and move forward with our lives. I'll hold you to nobody being mad, though." "Everybody knows what's coming down the pipeline, Andy," Ash said. "It'll be alright. I promise you, it'll all be alright. Now let's get these last four underway. There's still a few surprises left to spring on you, and it's always fun to watch your expression when you're caught off guard." "What kind of crazy surprises do you have lined up for me?" he said, as Piper strode through the door confidently, dressed in her Team USA gear, some sort of warm up suit. He was certain she wasn't wearing the full Olympian gear underneath it, but the very presence of the outfit seemed designed to send a message. "You should know she doesn't have anything planned for you, Andy," Piper said, smirking at him. "This is all us." "How are you feeling, Piper? Head starting to clear up? Starting to feel more like yourself again?" Andy asked. "A lot better, yeah. The first few days, it was like, I dunno, like I was walking through fog, like every inch of my body was coated in maple syrup," the brunette volleyball player said, looking around the room a bit before looking back at Andy. "I was living in quicksand, but over the last couple of days, all of that's been lifting and I've felt mostly like myself again. I've been trying to get back on my work out regimen, so that's helped some. But I think the further I get away from that state, the better off I'll be." She looked better, there was no denying. Her eyes didn't have the dark, heavy bags underneath them that they had when they first met. She'd also put a little bit of weight back on, but Andy suspected that was because she had been massively dehydrated when they'd first met. He was glad to see her coming back into being her full self. "A couple more weeks and I'll be right as rain again. But that's not why I'm here today." "Yeah, well, it doesn't hurt for me to ask about you first." "Yeah yeah," Piper said, as she picked up the remote, pressing the button as a Nordic looking blonde appeared on the screen. "I don't know how much you follow the Olympics, but if you do, you might recognize my friend Brooke Maloney here. She's being hyped as the next big thing for the woman's swim team. She's going to enter a number of various swim competitions,  breast stroke, freestyle, relay,  but obviously there aren't any games this year, and she's going out of her mind swimming laps in the compound's pool." The blonde, much like Piper, looked fit, although she looked much shorter in comparison, with broader shoulders and a wide smile on her face, sitting at a table full of athletes. Piper pushed the button again and the screen advanced to a new image, one of Piper and Brooke sitting on a blanket at some outdoor concert. "What do you mean 'compound?'" Andy asked. "A lot of the soon to be Olympians were at the US Training Camp, putting in a hard six months before the Olympics," Piper said. "Me and the rest of the volleyball team were going to be diverted there when the lockdown had been going for a few months, but it was deemed 'too risky' for any of us to be moved. Well, up until our dear Mister Covington decided to scoop me up and tried to make me into his own personal plaything. Thanks again for rescuing me from that, by the by." "I'm just glad you're not mad it's me you're bound to." "We've been over this, Andy," she sighed, a polite smile on her face. "I'm happy it was someone as nice as you. Let's move things forward. Now, one of the dirty little secrets you may not have heard about the Olympics is that after an athlete competes in their particular event, they go back to the Olympic village and they let off all that pent up steam that's been building in them for years. I haven't had a chance to experience myself personally, but our trainers and coaches have been telling us about it for as long as we've been old enough to hear the stories. I don't need that pressure valve any more because, well, I have you. But my friend Brooke, well, she doesn't have that." She pushed the button and the image advanced to another picture of Brooke, this time in Daisy Duke cutoff jean shorts, a white tied up shirt and a wide brimmed stetson hat, somewhere at a country bar, a Corona in hand with a lime. Her blonde hair was done up in short pigtails, which looked odd on her by Andy's reckoning. "Brooke and I have been friends for a couple of years now, and believe me, the Olympics is literally all she thinks about," Piper said. "She wants to win gold medals so much it, it's eating her up inside. Now with the 2020 games being pushed back until at least 2021, she's going out of her mind, like a predator able to see its prey under glass but not being allowed to hunt it." Piper pushed the button and the picture changed to an image of Brooke leaning against a Shelby Cobra, dressed in overalls, covered in grease, a wrench in her hand. "Her only other real passion is classic cars. She's something of a gearhead, and any time she's not training, she's working on cars. She's done more than a couple frame off restorations and more than a handful of heavy mods. She's had a couple of boyfriends over the years, but they never last all that long." "So what's she like in the sack, Pipes?" Ash asked her. "She's about as vanilla as they come," Piper answered. "She likes things slow and steady, smooth and soft. But she'll be a good lover, and a good friend." "Complications you anticipate?" Andy asked. "You're from pretty different worlds, but I've often been told that opposites attract, so maybe that won't be as big an issue as I think it might be," she shrugged. "You're pretty rock'n'roll, and she's a country girl at heart. You're a big city guy and she's a small town girl. She's at church every Sunday and I'm pretty sure you're an aethist. So maybe that's all too much to scale, but then again maybe it isn't. I'm sure whatever you decide, it'll be the right decision." Piper pushed the button and the screen advanced again, back to a black screen, with the words "Next: Sarah" in a cartoonish white lettering. "Any reason you didn't suggest any of the other girls from your volleyball team, just out of curiosity?" Andy asked. "I would've figured they would've been some of your best friends." The brunette smirked, flashing him a little wink. "Oh they are, but there's no way in hell I'm sharing my man with the likes of them. Let'em find their own hunk and they can keep their sticky fingers off of mine." With that, Piper headed out of the room, leaving the door open behind her, striding confidently down the hallway. "So, just to warn you about the next one, Andy, we do know in advance that you have met her a couple of times, but in the pictures we've seen, you always looked friendly, so we're going off that," Aisling said to him, as she texted Sarah to head to the conference room. "If we're wrong in those assumptions, ye can tell us and we'll let the matter drop then and there." "Oh yeah?" Andy said, suddenly wondering what familiar face was going to grace the screen in moments. "Where do I know her from?" The Irish redhead waggled a finger in his direction. "Just be patient, love. She'll up and in front o' ya in just a minute or two." Andy rolled his eyes with a grin. "Then what's the harm in telling me early?" "The harm is Sarah will have my tits in a wringer if I spill the goss before she's here." "Good lord, you girls and your secrets," he muttered in amusement. The statuesque redhead arrived moments later, and she immediately came over to hug Aisling, a giggle slipping from Sarah's mouth. "Congrats again, Ash," Sarah said to her. "I didn't want to say it in front of the others, but I am totally fucking jealous of you right now, you wouldn't even fucking believe me how jealous I am. Today is obviously the day I stop taking my birth control, because, damn, my clock is ticking, girlfriend." Ash shook her head with a mischievous grin. "You don't want to wait until you're a little more settled in first, Sarah? Or until you're married?" Sarah pulled back from the hug, looking over at Andy, licking her lips with a wild smile. "Shit, if I thought I could get him to do it, I'd beg him to fuck me until I was knocked up right here on this table, right here and now. But I've only got ten minutes, so maybe I should just get to the presentation." Andy gestured to the remote with a smile. "Maybe." "One thing first, though." Sarah had come into the meeting in a dress skirt and a dark red silk blouse, but she turned around, did something, then turned back, bringing a glistening finger to Andy's lips before the actress slipped it into his mouth, and he could taste her cunt on it. "Just so you know how much the idea of you breeding me turns me on." She winked at him as she pulled her fingertip from his lips and walked back to the other side of the table. "On with the show, Sares," Aisling poked. "Yeah, totes, Ash, I'm getting' there." Sarah picked up the remote and clicked the button, as the screen behind her flickered to life. "Oh look! It's you! And you're with one of my other total favorite writers, Larissa Cotton!" Andy immediately recognized the shot. It was taken about five years ago, at DragonCon. Andy hadn't wanted to go, but he'd been nominated for a Hugo, an award he'd ended up winning, for "Behind The Darkest Sky," the most successful of the Druid Gunslinger novels, partially because it was the most risky of the books. When Andy had written it, he'd almost thought it might be the end of the series if it didn't work, if the audience didn't trust him to stick around long enough to see the story continue in the next one. He'd left the Gunslinger in a hell of a mess at the end of the book, and while he was over half way through writing the next one when "Behind The Darkest Sky" had come out, he'd still been in a very nervous place about going to a convention. At the Hugo awards for the night, he'd found himself sat with a handful of authors he hadn't met before that night, including Larissa Cotton, a Hispanic woman from Portland who'd written an amazing book called "Ions At Dawn," a technothriller about a woman who finds herself grappling with an archaeological find that threatens to rewrite the basic underpinnings of science. Andy had read all the nominees and found her book fascinating, although maybe a bit too heady for the average reader. Larissa was nothing like any writer he'd ever met before. She was brash, confident, boisterous and outspoken, the loudest presence in any room, and yet, never in a harsh way. She was a plus sized woman, thick but not in an unappealing way. The silver hoop in her nose had been a little off putting, and Andy had found the overwhelming number of tattoos more than a little distracting, almost perhaps no more than the goth Lolita look meets skater punk she'd been rocking at the party. They'd gotten along reasonably well, although Larissa had gotten rip roaringly drunk by the end of the night. Andy and a couple of others had needed to help her back to her hotel room, since she was nearing blackout stages by the end of the night. Andy and Larissa had reminded occasionally in contact since then, but they certainly weren't what Andy would describe as close. They'd met up a couple of times in the years since, but generally it had just been if they'd been in the same town, and then only within a group of people. "Larissa lives up in Portland," Andy said. "Sure, but that can change," Sarah said. "I mean, Emily and I both lived in LA until we moved here. Asha's lived most of her life in London and Piper spent most of her life in Florida. People move, Andy. That can't be an excuse." "Well, no," Andy laughed, "but she was also engaged last I heard." "Wait, what?" Sarah asked. "I talked to her like three months ago, and she didn't mention it, and I didn't see any engagement ring." He shrugged. "Maybe I misheard, or maybe they called it off. It was a couple of years ago, when a bunch of us were getting drunk after our ComicCon panels. She said she'd just sold the film adaptation rights to 'Ions At Dawn' to somebody and we all went out to celebrate." Aisling nodded. "She sold the rights to Sarah, as a matter of fact." The taller redhead pushed the button on the remote and the screen advanced to an image of Sarah and Larissa at a conference table shaking hands. "My production company, Awkward & Dorky Films, to be more specific. We agreed to let her give us a first draft if she agreed to go through the notes and revisions process without too many complaints." "Heh," Andy smirked. "And 'Ris agreed to that? Talk about being prickly to editors. She damn near took my head off when she had me read a first draft of her third book, 'Castle of Yesterdays,' and I gave her notes on it." "It totally couldn't have been as bad as you're making it out to be, Andy," Sarah teased. "Don't be such a baby. Suck it up." "I believe she told me that I could roll up my notes and shove them into my cock until I was crapping them out," he said. "Fuck," Sarah muttered. "You must've been really hard in those notes." "Not really?" He shrugged a little. "I mean, I offered some opinions and I told her that a couple of the chapters went on too long with nothing happening, and that the climax felt overly weak but that it was a great first draft. I mean, I liked the book a lot. But that's what you do with first drafts,  show them to someone, figure out what works and what doesn't, then make a real book out of it." "I liked 'Castle of Yesterdays,' though, Andy!" Sarah whined. "Sure!" he said, waggling a finger at her. "You just read the final version, which went through about six revisions. And, for what it's worth, she ended up using most of my notes. I mean, I didn't hold it against her that she didn't like getting notes. Every author can be a little bit of a prima donna sometimes." "Well, as of July, I don't think she was married or engaged or whatever, and she's completely rad. Also, you two get along, because you've obviously gone out for dinner and drinks before, and she trusted you enough to let you read her first draft of a new book, so that seems good enough to me, don't you think?" "I mean, we weren't close friends, but we were, er, are friendly acquaintances. I don't know that either of us thought the other was their type, though. She seemed to be into people who were way more of the 80s skateboard punk ethos than me." "You saw her with a man at some point?" "Oh yeah," Andy said, "Well, no. I mean, not directly, but she showed me a picture of her and 'her man,' she called him. He was big, fit fellow. Broad shoulders, six pack. About as far from me as any man can possibly get. He looked like he could've bench pressed me for hours without breaking a sweat, and she, well, she looked happy." Sarah shrugged a little bit. "Whoever he was, Andy, he completely didn't last, because when she and I were meeting to discuss our notes for the screenplay, she was sniping about how she hadn't had a proper lay in months. So big and hunky didn't work for her, so maybe you could. I know she thinks you're cute. I told her I had a crush on you and she said 'Well, who could blame you?' so I think she does too." "How well do you know her, Sarah?" The taller redhead shrugged. "Not all that well, but she's been nice to me, and she's someone you know, so maybe that could be something that would work for you." "Do you have any idea whether or not we'd be sexually compatible?" Sarah shrugged with a smile. "It's never come up, so I don't have any idea." "Possible challenges?" "Two writers in the same room might always want to be editing one another?" she giggled. "I genuinely don't know, Andy. But I thought it was a good idea so I wanted to suggest it." "Fair enough then." "One last thing before I go," Sarah said, pushing the button to advance the screen to an image that read "next: Sheridan" on it in a frilly cursive font. "I was telling you at lunch that I think bringing Maya Steele into the family is a great idea, so I wanted to stress that while I haven't changed my mind on that, I did forget to tell you not to ever get into a drinking contest with her. Your head will hurt and your liver will be punching you for days." "And yet, you still think I should bring her in?" Sarah nodded emphatically. "Maya's a bad ass, and you need someone as direct as her in your life. I mean, Neeks handles most of that, but really, Maya's got her beat hands down." "Are you trying to convince me not to bring her in? Someone more direct than Niko?" "It'll be fine, Andy," Sarah said, flipping her hair with one hand. "I already know you're going to pick her, so trust me when I tell you that is the correct decision to make." "And if that isn't the decision I'm making?" "Then you're being a fucking idiot and you'd better come to your senses before your final decision, because no man should be allowed to be that fucking stupid. Obvs. But I know you're totally not and you're really just fucking with me, and that's cool," she said as she walked around the table before leaning down and kissing him firmly, pressing her lips against his for a long moment. "Have fun with the rest of the pitches!" As Sarah walked out of the room, Aisling shook her head while sending the message to Sheridan for her to make her way up to the pitch room. "It can be very hard to remember she's been nominated for an Oscar when she acts like that," the smaller redhead said. "But I guess it's part of her 'girl next door' charm. Anyway, what did you think? You're not mad about Sarah pitching Larissa?" "Why would I be mad?" he laughed. "I just don't know that it'd work. But it's something I'll definitely consider when I'm doing my deliberations, especially since Sarah seems to think Larissa might be into me. I never got that vibe, but  " "But it's well established you barely know a woman's into you even when she's sitting in your lap and whispering into your ear that she wants you to fuck her brains out." Andy gave her a disapproving smirk. "I'm not that bad." "You're not far from it, anyway." Sheridan came strolling into the room, wearing what she had at lunch, far less dressed up than most of the girls, wearing jean shorts over a leotard or a swimsuit, her frizzy blonde hair mostly tucked back, damp but not soaked. Andy half wondered if she'd been swimming in the pool while she'd been waiting. Sheridan had been known to enjoy swimming, even though the weather was dipping into the cooler side. Since her job as a performer was on hold until the pandemic was under control, she'd done her best to find ways to occupy her time. "Heya stud," she said with a wink as she wandered over to sit down in the chair. "I'm not gonna ask you if you've made decisions yet, but I am gonna ask how you're feeling about the process so far. It's hella cool that you're giving us input into that, and it's a big deal, so thanks for that. Anyway, I think you're gonna find my friend a wild ride." "Let's get to it then," Andy said. Sheridan picked up the remote and pushed the button as the screen popped to life, a image of Sheridan sitting with a young woman in her late 20s or early 30s, with jet black hair and skin the color of desert sand. She was a little more on the plump side, with a mischievous smile. They were sitting at a wood table on the patio of some local bar. "This is my friend Tala Jordan," the blonde said. "Her parents immigrated here from Iran in 1970. We met in high school and became besties. She's the one who talked me into quitting smoking. We were roommates in college down at Santa Cruz and we've been roomies on and off again since we both graduated in 2012." "Why do I feel like I've seen her somewhere before?" Andy said, the woman's face looking vaguely familiar in a way he simply couldn't place. "You go to a lot of concerts, Andy?" "Some." "Well, then she's probably been singing with an opening band you've seen at a concert." Sheridan pushed the button and the image advanced, showing Tala playing an electronic keyboard on a stand, and singing into a microphone. He recognized the stage as The Independent, a small but influential club in San Francisco that also tended to get some big name acts. "Boom Goes The Dynamite, Castle Idea, The Grendelles, Lowball Skyscrapers, Girls Gone Danger, hell, probably at least half a dozen more that I can't remember. Every time I talk to her, it seems like she's got some new band she's playing with." "What does she do when she's not playing in a band?" Aisling asked. Andy was certain she probably already knew the answer to the question and was simply asking for his benefit. "She's a carpenter," Sheridan said, pushing a button to advance to a slide of Tala working on a desk. "More specifically, she's a cabinetmaker, most of the time, anyway. She and a couple of her friends opened their own custom furniture house about five years ago, and people really like their stuff, because that's kept her afloat while living in the Bay, although to be fair, she's also gotten a very specific kind of clientele as of late." "What's that?" Andy asked. Sheridan pushed the button again, and the new image showed Tala sitting on top of a desk with dozens of shelves, a hutch atop it that had a number of closed doors on it. "She's become a puzzle maker. Custom puzzle boxes, puzzle desks, that kind of thing. It's a weird little niche, but it pays incredibly well, and she's made stuff for people like Kris Angel, Neil Patrick Harris and Elon Musk. Those projects usually take a month or two's worth of work, but they pay for an entire year or two's worth of mortgage, so she's okay with it." "Fascinating. What's she like as a person?" "She's wicked smart and very funny." She pushed the button and the image advanced again, showing the two of them standing on the Golden Gate bridge, their backs to the Bay. It must have been extremely windy on the day the picture was taken, because both women were doing their best to keep their hair from flying all over the place. Both girls were clearly laughing hysterically. "Some people think she can come across as a bit mean, but they just don't recognize she's only busting their balls a bit. She always told me that the Persian sense of humor can go over the heads of people not smart enough to keep up with her, and that she doesn't mind. She's a lot like Niko, and considering how much you and she get along, I think you'll dig Tala loads." Andy nodded. "Do you think she and I would be sexually compatible? What's she want out of a man?" Sheridan grinned from ear to ear and Andy immediately wondered what he'd said to trigger such a reaction. "If you had asked me two weeks ago, I would've given you an entirely different answer than the one I can give you today, dude. So when I told her about the whole imprinting process, and all about the accident we had with me getting primed early, I expected to see Tala be hella concerned about me, but instead, she got this freaky look on her face, and I realized about half way through my story that she was jilling off, while I told her about it. It turned her on so much she just couldn't help it," the blonde said, licking her lips with wolfish delight. "I'd never known before, but she's always had this pheromone fetish. Like, she gets turned on by the idea of being so turned on that she doesn't have control of her self, that she's turned into some carnal unstoppable beast who is going to fuck even if she has to move hell to get it." Andy swallowed a mouthful of air awkwardly. "When I told her about your first encounter with Piper, I swear to god, she fucking came just hearing about it. She wasn't even touching herself at that point, 'cause she was holding the phone with both hands. I asked her about it, and she said she was kinda embarrassed to talk about it, but admitted that it'd always been a fetish of hers. I found out all of this yesterday when I called to ask her if she'd be interested in me putting her forward for a chance to join you." "And I take it that the tales of the imprinting process only enhanced her interest?" "Totes. Obvs she wants to be here, but she also wants you to edge her all the time." "What do you mean edge her?" "She asked what happens when you try and stretch out the amount of time a girl needs to get her dose, and I told her your story about you and Lauren, and she wants to constantly be going towards that state. That turns her on like you wouldn't imagine. So seems to me like you get multiple ticks in the win column by bringing her here." "Possible challenges?" "Well, being quarantined in New Eden's gonna be rough on her, because she's big into spending time with her parents. She moved into their house when the pandemic started, and I know when people come into New Eden, they can't leave until the pandemic's over, so you'll need to make sure she understands that, but I'm betting the idea of getting to live out her number one sexual fantasy, like, all the fucking time might be enough to convince her that her folks will be okay on their own." "How close are you two, Sheridan?" "She's, like, one of my best friends, maybe my best friend, actually. I think you'd like her a lot. I know we haven't spent, like, loads of time together, but she really wants this, and you've got me, and you seem to like me well enough, so maybe you'd like her too, y'know?" Andy nodded with a smile. "Okay then. Thanks for talking to me about her, and I'll be letting everyone know tomorrow what my decisions are." "Yep, I got the spiel on the rules from Ash before we got started, so I know how it works," she said, pressing the button to advance the screen once more, bold white letters reading "next: Taylor" on the black background. "Just remember, while we all gotta live with'em, you're the one who's gonna have to fuck'em every couple of weeks, so don't take anyone you don't wanna dip your wick into on the regular, y'hear?" With that, Sheridan headed out of the room, leaving Andy and Aisling alone in the room again. "I didn't even know there was a fetish for that kind of thing." "You live near San Francisco, love," Aisling teased. "You more than anyone should know there's a fetish for every kind of thing. And nobody's judging. If it's not your thing, no problem. If it turns you on thinking about it, no problem. To thine own self be true, like Polonius said." "You know it's meant to be bad advice when he says it in Hamlet, right?" Andy replied. "Don't be such a geezer about it." "I'm a writer, Ash. Being a geezer about the English language is right there in the job description." Taylor knocked on the door, and had to be told twice to come in. She was actually dressed in clothing now, Lauren obviously having made an exception for the day, as the girl was still in her time of punishment. Andy wasn't sure that Lauren would make her go the whole month, but as of yet, the Aussie had shown no sign of suddenly doling out leniency. Taylor had on a pair of gym shorts and a white muscle t shirt that did very little to mask her impressive bust, but her hair was drawn back into a modest ponytail, high on her head, done up in a scrunchy. "So I'm the last one, huh?" she said, as she came into the room, looking at the chair then looking at Andy expectantly. "Sit, sit," Andy said. "If she's letting you get dressed to pitch, I'm sure she's fine with you sitting in a chair while you go through the whole process. And if she wasn't, I'm certain she would have said something." "Yeah, I guess you're right," Taylor said, finally moving to sit down in the chair. "Uh, hi! I did want to be sure and say thank you for letting us all do this, sir. I know you've been a little overwhelmed by all the female attention you've been getting, but it's very kind of you to allow us to suggest our friends to you, to make this home a little more like home." "Just as long as none of you get mad if I don't choose the people you pitch," Andy said. Taylor's bright blue eyes widened and she shook her head. "Oh,

The worst parts of the right are crying delicious tears of defeat as Trump steps over them to achieve peace in the middle east plus what does Iran look like if the current regime falls? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The worst parts of the right are crying delicious tears of defeat as Trump steps over them to achieve peace in the Middle East. Plus, what does Iran look like if the current regime falls?

In this episode of the Heart podcast, Digital Media Editor, Professor James Rudd, is joined by Dr Tyler Pitre from Toronto, Canada and Dr Alireza Malektojari from Bandar Abbas, Iran. They discuss their review paper about the prevention of pericardial complications after heart surgery. This was a network analysis study with some important conclusions. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a positive review wherever you get your podcasts. It helps us reach more people - thank you! Link to published paper: https://heart.bmj.com/content/111/8/353.long

Daniel discusses the geopolitical influence on oil prices, and what that means in the broader portfolio context. Speaker:  - Daniel Lam, Head of Equity Strategy, Standard Chartered Bank For more of our latest market insights, visit Market views on-the-go or subscribe to Standard Chartered Wealth Insights on YouTube.

Chairs: Sheraz Daya and Anat Loewenstein Speakers: Vladimir Suvajac, Sara Sella, Kristina Mikak and Tiago Monteiro Join us for the upcoming ESCRS eConnect webinar as we explore some of the key challenges faced after corneal refractive procedures. This session will highlight common postoperative issues such as visual quality concerns, stability of results over time, healing complications, and the management of intracorneal implants. Through focused presentations and a concluding discussion, our expert panel will provide valuable guidance on recognising, preventing, and addressing these complications in everyday practice. Whether you're experienced in refractive surgery or looking to expand your knowledge in managing postoperative outcomes, this webinar offers timely and practical insights relevant to all anterior segment surgeons.

At just 15 years old, Alexa from Slovakia underwent limb lengthening surgery and bowleg correction to treat her hypochondroplasia — a form of dwarfism that causes short stature. In this powerful podcast episode, she opens up about her diagnosis, the emotional and physical pain of surgery, and how the journey changed her life._____________________Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: Alexa's Incredible Story 0:28 - Diagnosed with Hypochondroplasia 1:17 - Why Limb Lengthening Was Necessary 2:10 - Limb Lengthening in Slovakia 2:40 - First & Second Surgeries Explained 3:25 - Emotional and Physical Recovery 4:36 - Leg Deformity: 45° to 10° Correction 5:40 - Waking Up After Surgery 6:09 - Unexpected Risks & Complications 8:33 - How Much Height Alexa Gained 9:09 - Life Now: Running, Sports, Confidence 10:20 - Residual Pain & Summer Struggles 10:58 - Height Before & After Surgery 11:40 - Will She Get Another Surgery? 12:50 - Advice to Her Younger Self 13:35 - Final Thoughts & Hope for Others______________________

durée : 00:28:50 - Le Feuilleton - Alors que le divorce par consentement mutuel semblait s'annoncer sous les meilleurs auspices, un quiproquo vient tout compliquer : Gilles croit que Mado a un amant. Or Mado a surtout des soucis avec Simon qui ne lui a pas versé un centime depuis qu'elle a commencé de travailler à son scénario.

This episode reveals how orthopedic surgery is being transformed, not by expensive robots or CT scans, but by smart, affordable navigation technology. Jerry Ennett, Senior Managing Partner at Intellijoint, joins us to share how their system is helping surgeons achieve precise hip and knee replacements while reducing costs and complexity. We explore how robotic systems like Mako are changing surgical strategy, not just in the OR, but in how surgeons attract patients and grow their practices. Jerry highlights real-world examples, including Dr. Marshall in Rhode Island, showing how technology becomes a competitive edge in both clinical outcomes and patient engagement. The conversation digs into the debate over accuracy, consistency, and personalized care. Jerry breaks down how Intellijoint ensures even the outlier patients who fall outside textbook ranges, receive the precision and reliability they need. It's a powerful case for why navigation systems are becoming essential, not optional. Looking ahead, we discuss the growing demand for smaller, faster, outpatient-friendly systems like the T-mini. Jerry shares how market shifts, patient expectations, and surgeon branding are all driving change and why sales professionals need to adapt if they want to succeed in this evolving space. If you're in medical sales, orthopedics, or just curious about how innovation reshapes industries, this episode is packed with insights that will sharpen your strategy and broaden your perspective. Connect with Jerry: LinkedIn Connect with Me: LinkedIn Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Here's How » Want to connect with past guests and access exclusive Q&As? Join our EYS Skool Community today!

Expecting the Unexpected: Episode 5 - Complications During Birth by 2mfm

If your doctor measures your uterus and finds little to no change over a period of time, you may have intrauterine-growth restriction; baby is small for its gestational age. Learn why this can be serious and ways to deal with it. Learn more at yourpregnancyweekbyweek.com.

durée : 00:28:50 - Le Feuilleton - Alors que le divorce par consentement mutuel semblait s'annoncer sous les meilleurs auspices, un quiproquo vient tout compliquer : Gilles croit que Mado a un amant. Or Mado a surtout des soucis avec Simon qui ne lui a pas versé un centime depuis qu'elle a commencé de travailler à son scénario.

You can now text us anonymously to leave feedback, suggest future content or simply hurl abuse at us. We'll read out any texts we receive on the show. Click here to try it out!Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! This week, we're sinking into the beautifully awkward and emotionally layered world of The Graduate (1967), a landmark in American cinema that captured the confusion and alienation of a generation—and still resonates today.Directed by Mike Nichols and based on Charles Webb's novel, The Graduate stars a breakout Dustin Hoffman as Benjamin Braddock, a recent college graduate adrift in a sea of expectations, ennui, and passive-aggressive dinner parties. Returning home to California, Ben finds himself stuck in a well-off suburban limbo, unsure of what to do with his future and utterly disconnected from the adults around him.Enter Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft), the wife of his father's business partner and one of the most iconic seductresses in film history. Their affair is sultry, weirdly funny, and shot through with a tragic edge that gives the film its unique tone—equal parts satire, drama, and coming-of-age fable. Complications multiply when Ben falls for Mrs. Robinson's daughter Elaine (Katharine Ross), throwing everyone's lives into romantic chaos and sparking a messy, impulsive pursuit that culminates in one of the most famous closing shots in cinema history.Visually, The Graduate is striking—Nichols' inventive use of framing, reflections, and slow dissolves elevates the emotional subtext, and Simon & Garfunkel's folk-heavy soundtrack ("The Sound of Silence", "Mrs. Robinson") lingers in your head long after the credits roll. The music doesn't just underscore the scenes—it becomes a character in itself, echoing Benjamin's alienation and longing.But what really makes The Graduate endure is its tonal complexity. It's satirical, yes, but also melancholic. Benjamin isn't a traditional hero; he's self-absorbed, indecisive, and often unlikeable. Yet in that uncertainty lies the film's power—it taps into that restless moment between adolescence and adulthood where everything feels hollow, and rebellion can look like love, lust, or simply running away.Is the ending romantic or despairing? Is Benjamin a rebel or just another aimless rich kid? The Graduate leaves space for interpretation, and that ambiguity is what keeps it feeling alive, even decades later.So whether you're watching for the sharp dialogue, the iconic performances, or just to see Dustin Hoffman awkwardly floating in a pool of existential dread—this one's a classic for a reason.

What complications can occur from an abortion? Are there common ones? Obstetrician Dr. Ingrid Skop explains abortion complications (2:47) and analyzes her new peer-reviewed study addressing the crisis in the emergency room during the aftermath of chemical abortion. (19:20) Pope Leo’s message to families. (42:12) Resources mentioned : America’s #1 source for science, data, and medical research on the value of human life: Charlotte Lozier Institute https://lozierinstitute.org/ More episodes with Dr. Ingrid Skop https://relevantradio.com/?cat=23210&s=ingrid Complications: Abortion's Impact on Women https://www.amazon.com/Complications-Abortions-Impact-Angela-Lanfranchi/dp/0920453368 Abortion Pill Reversal https://abortionpillreversal.com/ Post-abortion healing: https://www.rachelsvineyard.org/

In this episode, editor-in-chief Joseph E. Safdieh, MD, FAAN, highlights articles studies showing persistent fatigue after TIA, the neurologic complications of measles, and the impact of the dismantling of a CDC surveillance program of epilepsy.

Dane Johnson, board certified nutritionist and the founder of Crohn's Colitis Lifestyle, a company dedicated to helping people with IBD achieve deep healing through a blend of holistic nutrition, targeted supplementation, and personalized guidance. Dane started showing signs of IBD at the age of 19 when he noticed some blood in his stool and at 23 years old he couldn't ignore his symptoms any longer. After several years of going to various doctors and spending thousands of dollars trying to get treatment, Dane learned that he needed to be his biggest advocate and listen to his body. Once Dane started taking control of his own health he came up with a strategy for taking his health back.   In this episode of Conversations For Health, Dane and I discuss practitioner tactics for battling inflammatory bowel disease including Crohn's and colitis, microscopic colitis, and proctitis. We examine the correlation between chronic reactivating viruses and exposure to fungal, common findings in keystone species and pathogenic bacteria, and first steps in clinically addressing IBD and IBS, including probiotics and issuing patients low-risk, high-reward challenges. Dane highlights some of the Designs for Health supplements that can help clients see results. He generously shares some of the key business strategies that have expanded his business to a global reach with an 80% success and retention rate.   I'm your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.   Episode Resources: Dane Johnson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danejohnson1 Design for Health Resources: Designs for Health - https://www.designsforhealth.com/ Designs for Health Practitioner Exclusive Drug Nutrient Depletion and Interaction Checker - https://www.designsforhealth.com/drug-nutrient-interaction/ Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog. https://www.designsforhealth.com/research-and-education/education The Designs for Health Podcast is produced in partnership with Podfly Productions. Chapters: 00:00 Intro. 01:55 Dane is feeling lit up about the absence of mold from his house. 02:38 From suffering to IBD to helping others heal, Dane shares his personal journey. 06:53 The root issues behind Dane's suffering. 08:55 Complications from a childhood of GI issues, microplastics, and processed food. 13:55 The correlation between chronic reactivating viruses and exposure to fungus. 15:17 Distinguishing between Crohn's and ulcerative colitis, and patterns that are unique to each. 22:15 Common findings in keystone species and pathogenic bacteria. 25:53 The scientific advancements that unlocked Dane's healing. 31:36 First steps in clinically addressing IBD and IBS. 34:49 Second step recommendations including probiotics and low-risk, high-reward challenges. 40:50 Strategizing with patients on biologics, steroids and immunosuppressants. 45:40 When Remicade, immunomodulators or immunosuppressant drugs aren't working. 48:11 Strengthening and diversifying the gut microbiome. 50:58 The average timetable for healing. 55:19 Specializing, giving patients homework and other business growth tactics. 1:04:11 Dane's personal favorite supplements, favorite health practices, and his changed view on the possibilities of curing Crohn's and colitis.

In this episode, I sit down with M&A expert Reed Philips to talk about the real-world complications of selling companies — and the leadership lessons that come with it.We cover everything from celebrity buyers and Saudi royalty to family business politics, ego traps, and post-exit regret. Reed shares hard-earned wisdom on scaling, selling, and staying grounded through it all.Whether you're leading a business, building one, or preparing to let go — this conversation will challenge how you think about success.

Send us a textDr. Nikhil Kapila joins Dr. Michael Koren on this live MedEvidence! presentation. Dr. Kapila, a liver disease specialist, explains why we can't live without our liver. The doctors review what the liver does, what can cause damage to the liver, and what can go wrong when the liver suffers damage. They also discuss the importance of early testing, treatment options for some conditions, and the importance of clinical research in pushing liver health forward.Be a part of advancing science by participating in clinical research.Have a question for Dr. Koren? Email him at askDrKoren@MedEvidence.comListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsWatch on YouTubeShare with a friend. Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the MedEvidence! podcast to be notified when new episodes are released.Follow us on Social Media:FacebookInstagramX (Formerly Twitter)LinkedInWant to learn more? Checkout our entire library of podcasts, videos, articles and presentations at www.MedEvidence.comMusic: Storyblocks - Corporate InspiredThank you for listening!

Episode 302 hosts Dr Steven Liew (Plastic Surgeon from Sydney, Australia) In our 'Masterclass Series' we host global experts to teach us about fillers, bio-stimulators, bio-remodellers, polynucleotides, exosomes and other products. (For toxin insights, check out our other mini-series, 'The Tox Talks') In Chapter 5 we explore the growing interest in polynucleotides, with a particular focus on the brand Rejuran. We delve into the science behind polynucleotides and their application in facial aesthetics, skin regeneration and wound healing. Our conversation unpacks patient selection, injection techniques, and how to set realistic expectations. We also discuss the differences between various polynucleotide products and how they can be combined with other aesthetic treatments for enhanced results. 00:00 Introduction 02:03 Introducing Our Guest: Dr. Steven Liew 05:00 Understanding Polynucleotides and Their Applications 22:05 Consultation and Treatment Protocols 36:34 Injection Techniques and Best Practices 40:32 Optimising DNA Technology 41:01 European vs. Korean Polynucleotides 42:33 Ethical and Sustainable Practices 43:23 Managing Pain During Procedures 45:18 Dosage and Application Techniques 46:40 Complications and Safety Measures 51:15 Combining Treatments and Techniques 57:09 Patient Selection and Expectations 58:31 Advertising and Profitability 01:08:59 Final Thoughts and the Rejuran Academy in Sydney   APPLY FOR OUR IA COMPETITION SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE PODCASTS, WEEKLY EDUCATIONAL CONTENT & JOIN OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY CLICK HERE TO BROWSE OUR IA OFFERS FOR DISCOUNTS & SPECIALS CLICK HERE IF YOU'RE A BRAND OR COMPANY & WANT TO WORK WITH US CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO BE A GUEST ON OUR PODCAST CONTACT US

This week on Wrist Check Podcast, we're joined by Erica Ratini — aka Miss GMT — whose tagline, “Watches from a woman's perspective,” is more than a motto; it's a mission. Erica takes us inside her world of collecting highly complicated timepieces and uncovers the cultural influences — especially from Japan — that have shaped her unique taste, including her love for niche brands like Otsuka Lotec. We talk about what it means to be a woman navigating the often male-dominated watch space, how she challenges conventional expectations around what women should collect, and the moment she added her first Rolex to the collection. Insightful, personal, and inspiring — this is a conversation that redefines what it means to collect with purpose and personality.Powered by @getbezel Shop 20,000+ watches at getbezel.com, and Download the Bezel app at download.getbezel.com⁠⁠SUBSCRIBE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get the latest Wrist Check Pod content ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on instagram⁠⁠Chapters00:00 - Intro01:08 - Rashawn Wrist Check 03:06 - Perri Wrist Check 7:07 - Erica Wrist Check 14:04 - The name Miss GMT15:33 - Watch Influencer17:50 - Female perspective on watches21:42 - Discovering you like watches24:23 - Getting a Rolex Submariner29:50 - Getting an Otsuka Lotec38:53 - Importance of community41:18 - Areas of opportunity44:14 - Vintage Rolex48:36 - Total Collection49:29 - What's next in watches50:15 - What's next for Miss GMT50:41 - Questions for us53:46 - Outro

This Week: We play chapters 1 and 2 of Drakengard! Next Week: We play chapters 3 and 4! Visit rpgbook.club to pitch in and unlock cool rewards, including a weekly bonus episode! Check out https://linktr.ee/rpgbookclub for our Discord server and our socials!

Send us a textIt's the season finale, and I'm delighted to wrap up with a powerful and thought-provoking conversation featuring the incredible Dr Rachel Reed - midwife, educator, author, and advocate for physiological birth.In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid something that often triggers alarm bells during labour. But should it? Rachel helps us unpack the physiology, the myths, and the medical responses surrounding meconium in the waters.This conversation is essential listening for anyone preparing for birth, especially those wanting to feel informed and empowered in situations where the language of risk is used to justify intervention.We explore:What meconium actually is - and when it's considered 'normal'Why the presence of meconium doesn't always mean distressThe difference between thin and thick meconium - and why that mattersHow maternity systems often respond to meconium stained amniotic fluidHow to approach decision-making with confidence and contextAbout Dr Rachel Reed:Rachel is renowned for her evidence-based approach and her ability to reframe complex birth topics with clarity and wisdom. She's the author of Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of Passage, and Why Induction Matters. Her MidwifeThinking blog became a go-to resource for birth professionals and parents alike.Resources mentioned:Rachel's website: www.rachelreed.websiteRachel's Blog https://www.rachelreed.website/blogInstagram: @dr.rachel.reedThank you for joining me this season.Whether you've listened to one episode or every single one, I'm so grateful for your time and energy. This show is for you - for every birth partner, mother, and supporter who wants to walk into birth feeling prepared, powerful, and protected. I'll be back in September with more conversations that challenge, inform, and inspire.If this episode spoke to you, please leave a review or share it with someone preparing for birth. Your support helps this podcast reach those who need it most.If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesfordIf you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/LabourofloveThe Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9dfPregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmOPregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPFYou can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

Story at-a-glance Smoking before surgery significantly increases complications; current smokers have a 14% higher risk of post-surgical problems like infections and delayed healing Quitting smoking less than six weeks before surgery provides little benefit — patients need at least six weeks for their body to begin recovering from tobacco's damaging effects Young, otherwise healthy smokers are particularly at risk, with the highest smoking rates (26.8%) seen in patients aged 18 to 40 who often underestimate their vulnerability Smoking weakens immune defenses and promotes chronic inflammation by disrupting how immune cells function, creating an environment where infections thrive and healing slows Elective surgeries provide an ideal opportunity for smoking cessation, as the scheduled waiting period allows time for immune function and tissue oxygenation to improve

In episode 258 of the Simple Flying podcast, your hosts Tom and Channing discuss,United's San Francisco catering complicationsWizz Air's 1st A321XLR deliveryStarlux eyes Phoenix-Taipei flightsUK-EU e-gate agreementDoorDash driver ends up airside in Chicago

Episode 301 hosts Dr Eyal Kramer (Plastic Surgeon from Tel Aviv, Israel) & Dr Ellen Selkon (Cosmetic Physician from Auckland, New Zealand). In our 'Masterclass Series' we host global experts to teach us about fillers, bio-stimulators, bio-remodellers, polynucleotides, exosomes and other products. (For toxin insights, check out our other mini-series, 'The Tox Talks') In Chapter 4 we focus on a new product launched by IBSA called 'Profhilo Structura'. Our conversation covers the technical aspects of the product, the difference between Profhilo and Profhilo Structura, how Structura works on a cellular level, patient choice and suitability, injecting techniques and more. 00:00 Introduction  00:51 300th Episode Celebration and IA Competition Announcement  02:10 Special Guests Introduction  04:01 Innovations in Aesthetic Medicine 09:41 Understanding Bio Remodeling and Healing 14:57 How Profilo Works On A Cellular Level 22:53 The Difference Between Profilo and Profhilo Structura  32:00 Practical Application of Profhilo Structura and The Patient Consultation 45:06 Injection Techniques with Profhilo Structura 45:44 Identifying Saggers vs Sinkers  48:58 Patient Experience and Immediate Effects 51:23 Protocol and Treatment Frequency 56:29 Complications and Safety 01:07:53 Combining Treatments and Techniques 01:27:10 Final Thoughts and Future Ideas APPLY FOR OUR IA COMPETITION SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE PODCASTS, WEEKLY EDUCATIONAL CONTENT & JOIN OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY CLICK HERE TO BROWSE OUR IA OFFERS FOR DISCOUNTS & SPECIALS CLICK HERE IF YOU'RE A BRAND OR COMPANY & WANT TO WORK WITH US CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO BE A GUEST ON OUR PODCAST CONTACT US    

Jenna and Savannah share some of their most memorable vacation complications from past trips. Also, Natalie Portman and Eiza González join to discuss their new film ‘Fountain of Youth' and play a fun game. Plus, lifestyle expert and designer Preston Konrad helps a few viewers spruce up their living spaces with easy design upgrades. And, Monica Mangin, host of the YouTube series ‘The Weekender,' shares outdoor entertaining ideas for your Memorial Day Weekend bashes.

To celebrate our milestone 300th episode, we are honoured to re-host Dr Jean Carruthers (Opthalmologist from Toronto, Canada) & Dr Michael Kane (Plastic Surgeon from New York, USA). This episode is divided into Part 1 and Part 2. Part 2 is available to listen to for FREE by signing up to our Patreon as a 'free member': READ THIS GUIDE TO JOIN OUR PATREON AS A FREE MEMBER We've been priviledged to have hosted both of our guests on the podcast previously (episodes 120 and 190) and these rank in the top five of our most listened to episodes ever. These two legendary pioneers helped discover and evolve the science of botulinum toxin treatments and facial aesthetics as a speciality. Jean and Michael's experience is unparalleled having both worked on the advisory boards and research teams from every major pharma company over the past 40 years. So we go on a deep dive to learn where we've come from, where we're currently at and where we might be going in the world of aesthetics. 01:48 Celebrating 300 Episodes 03:18 Special Guests: Dr. Jean Caruthers and Michael Kane 03:01 The Origins and Development of Toxins 04:55 Exploring the Hall Strain and Toxin Subtypes 07:14 Early Experiments and Discoveries 07:15 Early Trials and Challenges 13:01 Pioneering Techniques and Complications 22:51 Long-Term Effects of Muscle Relaxation 23:45 Exploring Botulinum Toxin B 28:32 Training and Techniques for New Injectors 35:22 Consultation and Patient Interaction 44:22 Beyond Wrinkles: Emotional Wellness SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE PODCASTS, WEEKLY EDUCATIONAL CONTENT & JOIN OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY CLICK HERE TO BROWSE OUR IA OFFERS FOR DISCOUNTS & SPECIALS CLICK HERE IF YOU'RE A BRAND OR COMPANY & WANT TO WORK WITH US CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO BE A GUEST ON OUR PODCAST CONTACT US

For Maternal mental health awareness month listen in as Sarah and Whitney discuss the different prenatal mood and anxiety disorders that moms experience during pregnancy and postpartum and how they may present. From anxiety, depression, ocd, to ptsd this is a overview episode, to learn more in-depth on each please see in our “What is” series from May 24!Follow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videosKeep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!

The official NASA cuts are here. Several missions reach big milestones. The Solar Gravitational Lens will be challenging to use, and in our special bonus version on Patreon, [Space Bites+] an additional story about New Horizons scanning the clouds of hydrogen around the Solar System.

The FDA approval of TAVR for asymptomatic AS, digital health, subcutaneous vs transvenous ICD, and cryptogenic stroke in young adults are discussed by John Mandrola, MD. This podcast is intended for healthcare professionals only. To read a partial transcript or to comment, visit: https://www.medscape.com/twic I  FDA announces approval for TAVR in pts with asymptomatic AS Edwards Press Release https://www.edwards.com/newsroom/news/2025-05-01-edwards-tavr-receives-fda-approval-for-patients-with-asymptomatic-severe-aortic-stenosis Transcatheter Aortic-Valve Replacement for Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis (EARLY TAVR) https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2405880 EARLY TAVR: A Positive Trial That Fails to Inform Clinical Decisions https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/early-tavr-positive-trial-fails-inform-clinical-decisions-2024a1000kec Asymptomatic Aortic Stenosis: 'Time to Act' or Not So Fast? https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/asymptomatic-aortic-stenosis-time-act-or-not-so-fast-2025a10005o9 II PPG that Can Distinguish source of Tachycardia Machine-learning guided differentiation between photoplethysmography waveforms of supraventricular and ventricular origin https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmpb.2025.108798 III PRAETORIAN -XL trial Device-related Complications in Transvenous Versus Subcutaneous Defibrillator Therapy During Long-term Follow-up: the PRAETORIAN-XL Trial https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.125.074576 Subcutaneous or Transvenous Defibrillator Therapy (PRAETORIAN trial) https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1915932 Subcutaneous or Transvenous Defibrillator Therapy Letter to Editor https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2034917 The PRAETORIAN Trial: Guarded Approach to Subcutaneous ICD Best https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/937156 IV Stroke in Young People Burden of Modifiable Risk Factors in Young-Onset Cryptogenic Ischemic Stroke by High-Risk Patent Foramen Ovale https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/STROKEAHA.124.049855 Migraine: A Key Factor in Young Adults With Unexplained Stroke https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/migraine-key-factor-young-adults-unexplained-stroke-2025a10009jj U.S. stroke rate declining in adults 75 and older, yet rising in adults 49 and younger ASA statement https://newsroom.heart.org/news/u-s-stroke-rate-declining-in-adults-75-and-older-yet-rising-in-adults-49-and-younger Increasing stroke in the young https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajpc.2020.100085 You may also like: The Bob Harrington Show with the Stephen and Suzanne Weiss Dean of Weill Cornell Medicine, Robert A. Harrington, MD. https://www.medscape.com/author/bob-harrington Questions or feedback, please contact news@medscape.net