The religious wars sanctioned by the Latin Church and fought in the Levant during the medieval period
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There's so much more to the figure of St. George than his battle with a dragon. Legends also tell of his grisly martyrdom, capture of a demon, and postmortem abilities to cure madness through contact with his relics. In the Holy Land, there is even a tradition syncretizing St. George with a a supernatural figure of Muslim legend. We begin with a look at a modernized take on the St. George legend, the annual Drachenstich, or “dragon-stabbing," held in the Bavarian town of Furth im Wald. Beginning in 1590 with a performer representing the saint riding in a church procession, George was soon joined by a simple, canvas dragon, which over time evolved into the the world's largest 4-legged robot used in the event today. 19th-century Drachenstich in Furth im Walld Mrs. Karswell next reads for us the primary source for the dragon story, Jacobus de Voragine's collection of saint stories compiled around 1260, known as the Golden Legend. It popularized the tradition that George was a Christian soldier in in the Roman (Byzantine) army, born in Cappadocia, in central Turkey, and executed for refusing to bow to Imperial gods. There is also a princes to be rescued from the dragon but no king gives George her hand in marriage, as you might expect. Though Voragine set this episode in Libya, this setting was not really retained i the tradition. As one of early Christianity's "soldier saints," George held particular appeal for soldiers of the Crusades. We hear of two incidents of George leading Crusaders to victory as recounted in the Golden Legend and the Gesta Francorum (deeds of the Franks). When in 1483 William Caxton's English translation of the Golden Legend appeared, anecdotes of British interest were added, including George's connection to English knightood and The Order of the Garter. Elizabethan writer Richard Johnson featured George in his 1596 volume, Seven Champions of Christendom, elements of which were borrowed into mummers plays in which George became a hero. We hear snippets of these. Returning to Germany, we learn how George was also said to have encouraged the armies of Friedrich Barbarossa at the Battle of Antioch during the Third Crusade. We then delve a bit more into the history of the Drachenstich performances. Some folksy details from 19th-century newspapers documenting the tradition are also provided. We then return to the Golden Legend for an account of George's martyrdom. The location of this episode is not specified, but George's pagan nemesis here can be identified with Dacianus, the Roman prelate who governed Spain and Gaul. The tortures endured run the gamut from rack to hot lead, all of which are supernaturally endured until the saint is ultimately beheaded. Divine retribution in the form of fire falling from heaven is also included. Next, we investigate earlier sources adapted into Voragine's dragon story, the first known being an 11th-century manuscript written by Georgian monks residing in Jerusalem. George's background as a soldier from Cappadocia is identical, as is the endangered princess, though the victory over the beast lacks elements of swordplay and is largely accomplished through prayer. In this version, George is also responsible for the founding of a church complete with healing well. From the same manuscript, we hear a few more miracle stories, the "Coffee Boy" legend, George's defeat of a loquacious demon, a cautionary tale of a murderous and greedy hermit ostensibly, and a charming story involving a unhappy boy, George, and a pancake. We then take a look at the oldest St. George text probably written in Syria around the year 600. It's known as the “Syriac Passion of St. George," and details an extraordinary series of tortures so fantastical as to be declared heretical by the Church in the Decretum Gelasianum, probably within a century of the story's composition. 14th-cent Russian depiction of St. George's Martyrdom Digging a little deeper,
Join Al Mega as he interviews writer Mark Russell and artist Ryan Alexander-Tanner about Vanishing Point, their bold new six-issue sci-fi miniseries from Mad Cave Studios! Dive into a surreal, time-bending narrative full of sharp wit, eye-popping art, and deep existential questions. Hear about their creative journeys, how they teamed up, and what makes this story one of the wildest rides in comics today! 🪠Topics covered: Creative origins of Mark and Ryan How Vanishing Point was born Philosophical depth meets comic book thrills Artistic style and visual storytelling Industry insights and fun behind-the-scenes moments 🔗 Watch now and prepare for a mental warp! Follow Mark at: @manruss | Follow Ryan at: @ohyesverynice This series is a must-read for fans of Black Mirror, The Twilight Zone, and Love, Death + Robots. Vanishing Point #1 is in stores NOW. Get the latest news on Mad Cave Studios on social media, or visit www.madcavestudios.com to check out the full lineup of new releases, licenses, and celebrated creator-owned titles! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 576 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
The latest Western Force signing George Bridge is our guest this week and what a lad he is! From humble beginnings in Gisborne, to carving up for Canterbury, the Crusaders, and then going on to wear the black jersey on the biggest stage of all! But it hasn't all been smooth sailing. George had his struggles moving down to Christchurch as a 17 year old, he had to deal with some brutal injuries – knees, pec tears, appendicitis, he had three surgeries in eight months! He even played a Super Rugby Final with a nasty vomit bug. Despite all that, he kept bouncing back and showing his class and always finishing of tries!Some highlights for me in this one were..Hearing why he made the leap from Gisborne to Christchurch, The pathway he took to becoming an All Black,The influence of Leon MacDonald,The heartbreak of the 2019 World Cup semi-final, Why he moved to France and how he found itHis next chapter with the Force,And heaps more including all your questions.George is someone who always took his opportunity on the field through work rate and the never give up attitude. Players loved playing with this man cause he would never let them down and he is a champion lad! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 194: In this episode of the Sports Performance Leadership Podcast, hosted by Pete McKnight, we are joined by Mark Adamoulas — a performance leader whose 20-year career has spanned across sport, education, and the corporate world. Mark's track record is both diverse and exceptional: he has worked with Manchester United, the FA, Red Bull, and numerous global corporates, supporting C-suite leaders, Premier League managers, Olympic gold medalists, and VC/PE companies. His mixed heritage and multilingual background allow him to connect authentically with people from varied cultures and contexts, bridging high-performance environments across industries and geographies. As co-founder of coachup, Mark leads on coach development, bringing the latest behavioural science into the world of sports coaching. Where traditional coaching development often focuses on skills, drills, and tactics, Mark and his team shine a spotlight on the most critical driver of sustained success: the team environment. Topics Discussed: Mark's background — Greek heritage, move to the UK, and path into sports psychology Professional experience — Work with Manchester United, the FA, Rugby League, Red Bull, and more CoachUp — Neuroscience-based psychometric tools for team function The Infinity Model — Core pillars for building high-performance environments Practical applications — Lessons from the Crusaders and elite teams worldwide Benefits for leaders — Improving team alignment, collaboration, and performance Barriers — Overcoming skepticism, poor prior assessment experiences, ego and fear of feedback Evidence base — Validation by Oxford and Harvard neuroscientists Leadership ecosystems — Why building systems matters more than hiring experts alone Future trends — Rising pressures on athletes and staff, and the urgent need for better psychological environments Call to action — How leaders can engage with CoachUp in both sport and corporate settings This conversation delivers a rare insight into the science and practice of team performance, blending psychology, neuroscience, and leadership to show how high-performing cultures are built — and sustained — in today's most demanding environments. - Where you can find Mark: LinkedIn CoachUp Research Gate - Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world's leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. - Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett Pete McKnight
In this episode, host Al Mega sits down with the multi-talented illustrator and web developer Amin Amat, as they discuss his creative journey and his exciting new comic book release—The Road To Oz: Chapter Two! 🚀✨ Follow Amin through the winding yellow brick road of independent creation, hear what inspired this twist on a classic tale, and learn how he blends code and comics like a true creative sorcerer. Whether you're an Oz fan, a comic book head, or a fellow indie creator—this episode is packed with laughs, insight, and a whole lotta heart. 📚 Learn more about The Road To Oz: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/theroadto/the-road-to-oz-chapter-2 Follow on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/theroadtoozcomic/ Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 575 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
This week on On A Water Break, it's all about nerves, leadership, representation, and celebrating unforgettable wins in the marching arts. Host Josh Smith is joined by new panelists Dalton Stout, Clara Bagwell, and Eric Levy — all making their podcast debut!The team kicks things off with their 32 Count Life Stories and a fun icebreaker: “What part of the marching band are you?” Clara relives her gold-medal summer with the Boston Crusaders, Dalton shares his journey from Nebraska to Colorado and launching DVS Choreo, and Eric spotlights his 20+ years of teaching and his work with Drumline Network.In the News Block, we cover: The retirement of Iowa's legendary announcer Lou Crist after 44 years Miami budget cuts cutting $12.8M in arts funding A stolen band trailer in Colorado and tips for protecting your equipment PASIC 2025 announcements featuring RhythmX and George MasonDalton delivers the 60-Second Tech Block on choreography hacks, and in Water We Doing?! the crew takes on audition nerves, teaching leadership in a post-COVID generation, body shaming in DCI, and the importance of ensemble unity. The episode wraps with Gush & Go, highlighting Boston's first DCI championship, new percussion challenges, and student success stories.Panelists & Socials: Dalton Stout – IG/TikTok: @saltydalti | daltonvstout.com Clara Bagwell – IG: @_clara.01100010 Eric Levy – IG: @worldoferic | Drumline Network & Percussion League Josh Smith – TikTok: @mr.smiths.bandSponsors: Peak Group Travel – @peak.group.travel | peakgrouptravel.com Guard Closet – @guardcloset | guardcloset.com✨ Don't forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this podcast with a friend.
Dive into animated fairy warfare with Dylan Moore, the creative genius behind Outhouse Cartoons and the exciting new graphic novel, COMBAT FAIRIES! Join Al Mega for a hilarious and insightful chat about animation, creativity, fairy mischief, and the journey behind one of the quirkiest, most entertaining indie comics out there. Laugh, learn, and sprinkle some pixie dust—only on Comic Crusaders! Visit the website at: www.OuthouseCartoons.com Follow on: https://www.instagram.com/outhousecartoons/ https://www.facebook.com/OuthouseCartoons https://bsky.app/profile/outhousecartoons.bsky.social https://www.twitch.tv/outhousecartoons LIKE / COMMENT / SUBSCRIBE & Support Indie Comics! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 574 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
Al Mega sits down with the mastermind behind Kiss ME Comix, Rod Jenkins, who's BACK since his first appearance on episode 67! Rod breaks down his journey, what's changed in his publishing hustle, his latest projects, character drops, creative expansion, and what the future holds. Don't miss this fun, insightful, and high-energy convo! Follow Kiss ME Comix: Website: https://kissmecomix.com/ IG: @kissmecomix2 | FB: @kissmecomix1275 Twitter/X: @kissmecomix LIKE / COMMENT / SUBSCRIBE & Support Indie Comics! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 573 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
Today we sit down with Joseph A. Gagnepain, the CEO and Lead Game Designer at Lazarus Rising Games! We explore Joseph's rich journey as a visual artist—drawing, painting, sculpting—and how that artistic energy powers his game development process. From brushes to battle systems, he's building immersive experiences that are as beautiful as they are badass. Tune in to hear what inspires him, what's next for the studio, and how creativity fuels the future of gaming! Visit the website: https://lazarusrising.games/ Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 572 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
Christchurch's brand-spanking new central city stadium has been given hosting rights to Super Ruby's Super Round next Anzac weekend - the arena's debut major sporting event. The long-awaited $680 million stadium is set to open in April, with the defending champion Crusaders playing the first competitive match. It'll be the first time the Super Round is held in New Zealand. Anna Sargent reports.
Former All Blacks coach Sir Steve Hansen thinks getting former New Zealand and Crusaders star playmaker Richie Mo'unga back for the next World Cup is a good bit of business all round. Hansen's been on the ground in Japan at Toyota Verblitz, where Mo'unga's guided Toshiba to back-to-back titles in the top league. He told Jason Pine he's got no doubt the 31-year-old will hit the ground running, as Ardie Savea and Beauden Barrett, among others, have. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Fugitive Poems team—Christian De Matteo and James Lines—return to the Comic Crusaders Podcast to unleash a thunderous, poetic, and myth-soaked journey into the heart of battle with their new Kickstarter project, Blood Valkyrie! We talk inspiration, Norse legends, visual madness, and the power of indie comics! DON'T MISS IT! Back it here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/fugitivepoems/blood-valkyrie-in-vegas Follow Fugitive Poems: Website: www.fugitivepoems.com Insta | Bluesky | X – @FugitivePoems Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 571 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #ComicCrusadersPodcast #BloodValkyrie #FugitivePoems #KickstarterComics #IndieComics #AlMegaStyle
On this episode, I'm joined by Destiny, founder of Be About It and bassist of Iron Crusaders to chat about Red Bull, fancy coffees, a summer full of shows, launching a label, and the upcoming Be About It fest.During the episode I was drinking Vanilla Marshmallow Cupcakes from COLORFULL.Episode Links:https://colorfullcoffee.com/https://www.instagram.com/ironcrusaders514/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/beaboutitzine/?hl=enTICKETS - https://beaboutitzine.bigcartel.com/product/be-about-it-festhttps://www.instagram.com/beansandbreakdowns/
An exception to normal procedure at the Crusaders in bringing Richie Mo'unga back to the Super Rugby franchise. The 56-test All Black has signed an 18-month contract to return in July after three seasons playing in Japan. Crusaders boss Colin Mansbridge says they're stoked Mo'unga is returning to his home franchise. He told Mike Hosking this type of contract is probably the way of the future – athletes gaining experience elsewhere before returning to the game. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Text of ReadingsFeast of the Transfiguration of the Lord Lectionary: 614The Saint of the day is Transfiguration of the LordThe Story of the Transfiguration of the Lord All three Synoptic Gospels tell the story of the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-9; Luke 9:28-36). With remarkable agreement, all three place the event shortly after Peter's confession of faith that Jesus is the Messiah and Jesus' first prediction of his passion and death. Peter's eagerness to erect tents or booths on the spot suggests it occurred during the week-long Jewish Feast of Booths in the fall. According to Scripture scholars, in spite of the texts' agreement it is difficult to reconstruct the disciples' experience, because the Gospels draw heavily on Old Testament descriptions of the Sinai encounter with God, and prophetic visions of the Son of Man. Certainly Peter, James, and John had a glimpse of Jesus' divinity strong enough to strike fear into their hearts. Such an experience defies description, so they drew on familiar religious language to describe it. And certainly Jesus warned them that his glory and his suffering were to be inextricably connected—a theme John highlights throughout his Gospel. Tradition names Mount Tabor as the site of the revelation. A church first raised there in the fourth century was dedicated on August 6. A feast in honor of the Transfiguration was celebrated in the Eastern Church from about that time. Western observance began in some localities about the eighth century. On July 22, 1456, Crusaders defeated the Turks at Belgrade. News of the victory reached Rome on August 6, and Pope Callistus III placed the feast on the Roman calendar the following year. Reflection One of the Transfiguration accounts is read on the second Sunday of Lent each year, proclaiming Christ's divinity to the Elect and baptized alike. The Gospel for the first Sunday of Lent, by contrast, is the story of the temptation in the desert—affirmation of Jesus' humanity. The two distinct but inseparable natures of the Lord were a subject of much theological argument at the beginning of the Church's history; it remains hard for believers to grasp. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comIn this solo episode, I'm sharing something a little different.As of now, these 1:1 solocasts won't be weekly anymore. Instead, I'll be dropping more intentional updates once or twice a month — focused on what's actually shaping me behind the scenes.This is one of those episodes.In this episode, you'll discover:What a cab driver, a psychologist, and a billion-dollar founder taught me this monthThe mindset shift that's helped me handle pressure, friction, and people betterWhy saying “no” is the key to becoming a high performerHow I'm staying focused during the chaos of a book launchA simple rule from the Crusaders' head coach that can transform your productivityWhat's really happening behind the scenes of the High Performance Leadership EventIf you're navigating growth, busyness, or big transitions — this episode is for you.Let me know what resonates. And if it does? Share it with someone who needs it.And if you haven't already, pre-order your copy of Habits of High Performers at thehabitbook.com to get exclusive bonuses before launch.Grab a copy of The Resilience Toolkit by Dr Alia Bojilova here - https://www.paperplus.co.nz/shop/books/non-fiction/health-wellbeing/personal-development/the-resilience-toolkit-1076253Come join me at The High Performance Leadership Event here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/high-performance-event-2025 Get the Growth Weekly Newsletter sent straight to your inbox and join 1000's of other high-performers on the road to self-mastery - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/newsletterSend me a personal text message- Pre-order my new book TODAY - www.thehabitbook.com - If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comSupport the show
In this divine-level episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, host Al Mega welcomes writer Mario B. Long, the mind behind God Tier Vol. 1: Prey, coming from Nakama Press, Mad Cave Studios' manga-focused imprint! Get ready for an action-packed chat about myth, manga, creative freedom, and what it takes to bring a celestial vision to life! âž¡ï¸ Learn about Mario's journey âž¡ï¸ How God Tier came to be âž¡ï¸ Why this series is a must-read for every manga and mythology fan! Order Now: https://madcavestudios.com/product/god-tier-vol-1-vol-1 Don't forget to LIKE / SUBSCRIBE / SLAY THAT BELL for more dope creator convos every week! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 570 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
Preached at St Paul Lutheran Church, Rockford, Illinois on August 3rd, 2025.Support Rev Fisk at SubscribeStarOrder Rev Fisk's books at AmazonCatch Rev Fisk on A Brief History of Power podcastFor video, visit Rev Fisk's Rumble channel
On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega sits down with the brilliant and unstoppable Matthew Medney, Founder & CCO of Iconic Arts and Founder & Publisher of Gungnir Books! We dig deep into Matt's wild creative journey from the world of metal and NASA to mythic indie publishing madness. Learn about Gungnir's vision, upcoming titles, and how to create galaxies from scratch! Follow Matthew Medney: Website: https://www.matthewmedney.com Instagram: @matthewmedney Gungnir Books: https://www.gungnirbooks.com Discover stories forged by gods and grounded in grit with Gungnir Books! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 569 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
After tasting his first Super Rugby Pacific success this year, Crusaders Coach Rob Penney has made the decision to stick around for another year. After a tumultuous and underwhelming campaign in his first season in 2024, the Crusaders bounced back to claim their 13th full title, defeating the Chiefs 16-12 in last month's final. He joined Jason Pine to discuss his decision to stay with the team. “I always said, you know, if I wasn't wanted, I would never stay, but you know, that wasn't the case, so, rapt to be doing it again.” LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for 2nd August 2025, NPC is back! Piney catches up with the provinces, guests including Wellington Rugby CEO Tony Giles out of Porirua Park, Northland's Simon Parker and Taranaki's Josh Jacomb ahead of their Shield challenge, and the Muster's Andy Muir out of Invercargill for Stag Day. Rob Penney called in for a chat about his decision to return to the Crusaders for another season. And NZ Herald League writer Michael Burgess recaps the Warriors heartbreaking loss to the Dolphins. Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on It's Happening: Snooki and Joey talk all things weather, weird vibes, and what's ahead for the holidays. They share updates on JT's health, touch on grief and public pressure, and weigh in on everything from Hallmark movies to celebrity headlines—with a few witchy moments in between. Wanna join the party? Text or leave a voicemail for your favorite messy mawmas at (646) 580-5251 and you might just get featured next week! Subscribe and Watch on YouTube Connect with It's Happening: Instagram | TikTok | Snooki and Joey on Cameo
In this episode, Al Mega chats with the always dapper, always dangerous David Avallone, writer of Dynamite Comics' latest special, Red Sonja Noir! They dive deep into David's pulp-flavored take on Red Sonja, blending classic noir style with sword-swinging fury. From behind-the-scenes tales to comic craft wisdom, this convo is lit with humor, energy, and comic book magic. Don't miss it! Get Red Sonja Noir now from Dynamite Comics: https://www.dynamite.com/htmlfiles/viewProduct.html?PRO=C72513035646801011 Follow David on Twitter: https://twitter.com/davallone Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 568 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #RedSonjaNoir #DavidAvallone #DynamiteComics #ComicCrusaders #AlMega #ComicBookInterview #NoirComics #ElviraWriter
At the end of each week, Mike Hosking takes you through the big-ticket items and lets you know what he makes of it all. August: 6/10 Is it just me or is this year moving at pace? Where did seven months go? The recovery: 4/10 Yes, by August the recovery was supposed to be here. The greens shoots were to have flourished, and stuff was supposed to be better. The payWave charge ban: 6/10 Not perfect, but a practical move that should help. Rob Penney: 7/10 Glad he is back, and why not? One bad year and one great year. You want another dose of great, don't you? Shane Jones: 8/10 Move of the week. Had a couple of glasses of red, turned his phone off, and missed the alerts. Now that is a plan. The Warriors: 7/10 A loss to the Titans and we lose James Fisher-Harris for a couple of weeks as well. If you are a doubter there is a bit of material for you to angst over. But I'm still a believer and this is our year. LISTEN ABOVE FOR MIKE HOSKING'S FULL WEEK IN REVIEW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Get ready for a descent into madness as Al Mega sits down with the incredible Chris Condon, the mind behind That Texas Blood, to talk about his chilling new project from Mad Cave Studios — Far Down Below! Discover the inspirations, the scares, the creative magic, and why this book needs to be in YOUR hands! High-energy, high-fun, and packed with insight — don't miss it! 🔗 Grab your copy of Far Down Below: https://madcavestudios.com/product/far-down-below 🎧 Follow Chris Condon on Bluesky: @christophcondon.bsky.social Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 567 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #ComicCrusaders #ChrisCondon #FarDownBelow #MadCaveStudios #ComicBooks #IndieComics #HorrorComics
In Parashat Matot, Moshe Rabbeinu is commanded by Hashem to avenge the Midyanim for causing Bnei Yisrael to stumble in the most severe sins. Moshe responds by selecting one thousand tzaddikim from each shevet, totaling 12,000 men. He sent them off to war along with Pinchas, the Aron HaKodesh, and the special trumpets used in battle to invoke Hashem's favor and bring victory. The Torah then states: " וַיִּצְבְּאוּ עַל־מִדְיָן " – They encamped against Midyan. Ramban explains that this means the Jewish army surrounded Midyan on three sides, leaving one side open. This was a direct command from Hashem, meant to offer the enemy a chance to flee. Even in war, we are commanded to show mercy. And Ramban adds that this wasn't a one-time instruction—this principle of compassion applies to all future optional wars. Later, the Torah testifies that the Jewish army wiped out Midyan without losing even one soldier. It was openly miraculous. To confront such a large enemy with only 12,000 men and suffer no casualties was clearly the hand of Hashem. This pattern has repeated itself throughout Jewish history. We show compassion to our enemies—and we experience miraculous victories. In a recent conflict, the Israeli Air Force flew nearly 400 warplanes over Iran. Not a single jet malfunctioned. There were no mechanical failures, no planes struck by enemy fire, and not one pilot was injured or captured. Before the operation, Israeli defense officials estimated that between 400 and 800 civilians could be killed in Iranian missile assaults. Some projections feared that if Iran fired all of its 2,000+ ballistic missiles, the death toll could rise to 4,000. In the end, only 687 missiles were fired. Of those, 97% were intercepted. Iran also launched 1,200 drones—99% of which were downed by Israeli defensive systems. According to military experts, these numbers are almost statistically impossible. But when Hashem is protecting us, statistics do not apply. Although we did not merit a completely casualty-free outcome like the war against Midyan, we witnessed an unmistakable miracle. And it wasn't only us who saw it. Even non-Jewish journalists around the world began to acknowledge that something beyond nature is protecting the Jewish people. A British journalist by the last name Heath recently wrote an article exploring the world's irrational hatred for the Jews. He asked: Why does a nation this small inspire so much hostility? In his own words: A nation this small should not be this strong. Surrounded by enemies, condemned in the UN, targeted by terror, boycotted, slandered, and attacked—and yet, the Jewish people thrive in every area: military, medicine, technology, agriculture, security, intelligence, morality, and resilience. They turn desert into farmland. They make water from air. They intercept rockets midair. They rescue hostages from the heart of enemy territory. They survive wars they are supposed to lose—and they win. The world watches and can't explain it. So they grasp for explanations: American aid, high-tech trickery, some hidden secret—anything but the truth. Because the truth means admitting it's Hashem. By all logic, the Jewish people should have disappeared long ago. That's how the story of every exiled, enslaved, and persecuted minority ends. But the Jews didn't disappear. We are stronger than ever. There is no cheat code that can explain how a nation returns to its homeland after 2,000 years. There is no rational explanation for how a people go from gas chambers to global influence. There is no historical precedent for surviving the Babylonians, Romans, Crusaders, Inquisitions, Pogroms, and Holocaust—and still standing strong today. Israel doesn't make sense—unless you believe in something higher. And that's what drives the world crazy. Maybe history isn't random. Maybe evil doesn't have the last word. Maybe the Jewish people aren't just a nation—but a living proof that there is a G-d in the world. Once a person admits that Israel's survival is divine, his entire moral compass has to reset. Because then he is not watching the final chapter of a fallen people, but rather the unfolding of something eternal. So the world tries to deny it—but it is becoming more and more obvious. We are incredibly fortunate to be the Am Hashem. We must appreciate that privilege and honor it by living as true representatives of Hashem—through our Torah and our mitzvot.. Shabbat Shalom.
July 24, 1148. Crusaders lay siege to Damascus, attempting to regain control of the Holy Land, a fiasco that brings the second Crusade to an end.Support the show! Join Into History for ad-free listening and more.History Daily is a co-production of Airship and Noiser.Go to HistoryDaily.com for more history, daily.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of Yahweh's Money, we're keeping it real, keeping it holy and keeping it honest. Shay Cook sits down with her sister, salon owner and entrepreneur Montoya Silver for a powerful conversation about debt, faith, and financial freedom.In this episode, we're diving into the emotional and spiritual weight of financial responsibility, how being uncomfortable is often where God does His best work, and why debt isn't always a bad thing—it's a tool that, with the right mindset and stewardship, can lead to generational wealth.From scaling a business with borrowed funds to paying yourself as a service-based entrepreneur, Montoya shares her unfiltered journey with debt, business ownership, and spiritual alignment.If you've ever felt the anxiety of owing more than you're earning—or wondered if faith has anything to do with your finances—this episode is your reminder that freedom starts with surrender.Here's what you'll walk away with:A reframed perspective: why debt isn't always bad, but staying in it without a plan is.How entrepreneurship tests your faith—and your budget.Biblical strategies for finding peace in financial pressure.The power of responsible stewardship and spiritual growth.How fixed expenses and fluctuating income require both wisdom and faith.Why paying yourself is paying your people.What it means to be uncomfortable and still obedient.Featured Scriptures:Proverbs 22:7 – “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.”Philippians 4:6 – “Be anxious for nothing…”Luke 14:28 – “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost…”Action Step:Choose one debt this month—just one—and make a plan. Whether that means paying it down, refinancing, or simply praying over it with intention, name it and claim your authority over it with God's help.Final Word:Debt may be uncomfortable, but discomfort births growth. When you partner with God, even your financial mess can become a message of freedom.Send us a text
Tom Maxwell just led the Delsea Regional High School wrestling team in South Jersey to the 2025 NJSIAA Group 3 Wrestling Championship. It was the fourth straight state title for the Crusaders, but it was the first for Maxwell as head coach, as he took over the program after spending 29 seasons as an assistant. He also was a longtime assistant for the football and baseball programs at Delsea, logging an amazing 73 seasons as an assistant coach for the three programs combined prior to this first season as a head coach. In Episode #263 of "1-on-1 with Matt Leon," Matt welcomes Maxwell in studio to talk about his career. They discuss what it was like to lead Delsea to the state title in his first year as head coach, why being a head coach was never really a goal for him, they discuss what makes Delsea wrestling special and much more. “1-on-1 with Matt Leon” is a KYW Newsradio original podcast. You can follow the show on X @1on1pod and you can follow Matt @Mattleon1060.
Crusaders prop Fletcher Newell is the latest All Black to re-commit to New Zealand Rugby to after the 2027 World Cup.
This week we talk about the PKK, Turkey, and the DEM Party.We also discuss terrorism, discrimination, and stateless nations.Recommended Book: A Century of Tomorrows by Glenn AdamsonTranscriptKurdistan is a cultural region, not a country, but part of multiple countries, in the Middle East, spanning roughly the southeastern portion of Turkey, northern Iraq, the northwestern portion of Iran, and northern Syrian. Some definitions also include part of the Southern Caucasus mountains, which contains chunks of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.So this is a sprawling region that straddles multiple nations, and it's defined by the presence of the Kurdish people, the Kurds, who live all over the world, but whose culture is concentrated in this area, where it originally developed, and where, over the generations, there have periodically been very short-lived Kurdish nations of various shapes, sizes, and compositions.The original dynasties from which the Kurds claim their origin were Egyptian, and they governed parts of northeastern African and what is today Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. That was back in the 8th to 12th century, during which Saladin, who was the sultan of both Egypt and Syria, played a major historical role leading Muslim military forces against the Christian Crusader states during the Third Crusade, and leading those forces to victory in 1187, which resulted in Muslim ownership of the Levant, even though the Crusaders continued to technically hold the Kingdom of Jerusalem for another hundred years or so, until 1291.Saladin was Kurdish and kicked off a sultanate that lasted until the mid-13th century, when a diverse group of former slave-soldiers called the mamluks overthrew Saladin's family's Ayyubid sultanate and replaced it with their own.So Kurdish is a language spoken in that Kurdistan region, and the Kurds are considered to be an Iranian ethnic group, because Kurdish is part of a larger collection of languages and ethnicities, though many Kurds consider themselves to be members of a stateless nation, similar in some ways to pre-Israel Jewish people, Tibetan people under China's rule, or the Yoruba people, who primarily live in Nigeria, Benin, and Togo, but who were previously oriented around a powerful city-state in that region, which served as the central loci of the Ife Empire, before the Europeans showed up and decided to forcibly move people around and draw new borders across the African continent.The Kurds are likewise often politically and culturally powerful, and that's led to a lot of pushback from leaders in the nations where they live and at times operate as cultural blocs, and it's led to some very short-lived Kurdish nations these people have managed to establish in the 20th century, including the Kingdom of Kurdistan from 1921-1924, the Republic of Ararat from 1927-1930, and the Republic of Mahabad, which was formed as a puppet state of the Soviet Union in 1946 in northwestern Iran, following a Soviet push for Kurdish nationalism in the region, which was meant to prevent the Allies from controlling the region following WWII, but which then dissolved just a few months after its official formation due to waning support from the Kurdish tribes that initially helped make it a reality.What I'd like to talk about today is the Kurdistan Worker's Party, and why their recently declared ceasefire with Turkey is being seen as a pretty big deal.—The Kurdistan Worker's Party, depending on who you ask, is a political organization or a terrorist organization. It was formed in Turkey in late-1978, and its original, founding goal was to create an independent Kurdish state, a modern Kurdistan, in what is today a small part of Turkey, but in the 1990s it shifted its stated goals to instead just get more rights for Kurds living in Turkey, including more autonomy but also just equal rights, as Kurdish people in many nations, including Turkey, have a long history of being discriminated against, in part because of their cultural distinctiveness, including their language, manner of dress, and cultural practices, and in part because, like many tight-knit ethnic groups, they often operate as a bloc, which in the age of democracy also means they often vote as a bloc, which can feel like a threat to other folks in areas with large Kurdish populations.When I say Kurdish people in Turkey have long been discriminated against, that includes things like telling them they can no longer speak Kurdish and denying that their ethnic group exists, but it also includes massacres conducted by the government against Kurdish people; at times tens of thousands of Kurds were slaughtered by the Turkish army. There was also an official ban on the words Kurds, Kurdistan, and Kurdish by the Turkish government in the 1980s, and Kurdish villages were destroyed, food headed to these villages was embargoed, and there was a long-time ban on the use of the Kurdish language in public life, and people who used it were arrested.As is often the case in such circumstances, folks who support the Kurdish Worker's Party, which is often shorthanded as the PKK, will tell you this group just pushes back against an oppressive regime, and they do what they have to to force the government to backtrack on their anti-Kurdish laws and abuses, which have been pretty widespread and violent.The PKK, in turn, has been criticized for, well, doing terrorist stuff, including using child soldiers, conducting suicide bombings, massacring groups of civilians, engaging in drug trafficking to fund their cause, and executing people on camera as a means of sowing terror.Pretty horrible stuff on both sides, if you look at this objectively, then, and both sides have historically justified their actions by pointing at the horrible things the other side has done to them and theirs.And that's the context for a recent announcement by the leader of the PKK, that the group would be disarming—and very literally so, including a symbolic burning of their weapons in a city in northern Iraq, which was shared online—and they would be shifting their efforts from that of violent militarism and revolution to that of political dialogue and attempting to change the Turkish government from the inside.Turkish President Erdogan, for his part, has seemed happy to oblige these efforts and gestures, fulfilling his role by receiving delegates from the Turkish, pro-Kurd party, the DEM Party, and smilingly shaking that delegate's hand on camera, basically showing the world, and those who have played some kind of role in the militant effort against the Turkish government, that this is the way of things now, we're not fighting physically anymore, we're moving on to wearing suits and pushing for Kurdish rights within the existing governmental structures.The founder of the PKK, Abdullah Ocalan, got in on the action, as well, releasing a seven-minute video from prison, which was then broadcast by the PKK's official media distribution outlet, saying that the fighting is over. This was his first appearance on camera in 26 years, and he used it to say their effort paid off, the Kurds now have an officially recognized identity, and it's time to leverage that identity politically to move things in the right direction.Erdogan's other messages on the matter, to the Kurdish people, but also those who have long lived in fear of the PKK's mass-violence, have reinforced that sentiment, saying that the Kurds are officially recognized as a political entity, and that's how things would play out from this point forward—and this will be good for everyone. And both sides are saying that, over and over, because, well, child soldiers and suicide bombings and massacres conducted by both sides are really, really not good for anyone.By all indications, this has been a very carefully orchestrated dance by those on both sides of the conflict, which again, has been ongoing since 1978, and really picked up the pace and became continuous and ultra-violent, in the 1980s.There was an attempted peace process back in the 20-teens, but the effort, which included a temporary truce between 2013 and 2015, failed, following the murder of two Turkish police officers, the PKK initially claiming responsibility, but later denying they had any involvement. That led to an uptick in military actions by both groups against the other, and the truce collapsed.This new peace process began in 2024 and really took off in late-February of 2025, when that aforementioned message was broadcast by the PKK's leader from prison after lawmakers from the pro-Kurdish DEM Party worked to connect him and the Turkish government, and eventually helped negotiate the resulting mid-May of 2025 disarmament.Turkey's military leaders have said they will continue to launch strikes against PKK-affiliated groups that continue to operate in the region, and the PKK's disarmament announcement has been embraced by some such groups, while others, like the Syrian Democratic Forces, which is tied to the PKK, but not directly affiliated with them, have said this truce doesn't apply to them.Most governments, globally, have heralded this disarmament as a major victory for the world and Turkey in particular, though the response within Turkey, and in Kurdish areas in particular, has apparently been mixed, with some people assuming the Turkish government will backtrack and keep the DEM Party from accomplishing much of anything, and worrying about behind-the-scenes deals, including a reported agreement between Erdogan's government and the DEM Party to support Erdogan's desire to transform the Turkish government into a presidential system, which would grant him more direct control and power, while others are seemingly just happy to hear that the violence and fear might end.Also notable here is that a lot of Turkey's foreign policy has revolved around hobbling and hurting the PKK for decades, including Turkey's initial hindering of Sweden's accession to NATO, which was partly a means of getting other nations to give the Turkish government stuff they wanted, like upgraded military equipment, but was also a push against the Swedish government's seeming protection of people associated with the PKK, since Sweden's constitution allows people to hold all sorts of beliefs.Some analysts have speculated that this could change the geopolitics of the Middle East fundamentally, as Turkey has long been a regional power, but has been partly hobbled by its conflict with the PKK, and the easing or removal of that conflict could free them up to become more dominant, especially since Israel's recent clobbering of Iran seems to have dulled the Iranian government's shine as the de facto leader of many Muslim groups and governments in the area.It's an opportune time for Erdogan to grab more clout and influence, in other words, and that might have been part of the motivation to go along with the PKK's shift to politics: it frees him and his military up to engage in some adventurism and/or posturing further afield, which could then set Turkey up as the new center of Muslim influence, contra-the Saudis' more globalized version of the concept, militarily and economically. Turkey could become a huge center of geopolitical gravity in this part of the world, in other words, and that seems even more likely now that this disarmament has happened.It's still early days in this new seeming state of affairs, though, and there's a chance that the Turkish government's continued strikes on operating PKK affiliated groups could sever these new ties, but those involved seem to be cleaving to at least some optimism, even as many locals continue hold their breath and hope against hope that this time is different than previous attempts at peace.Show Noteshttps://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/heres-what-to-know-about-turkeys-decision-to-move-forward-with-swedens-bid-to-join-natohttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025_PKK%E2%80%93Turkey_peace_processhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2013%E2%80%932015_PKK%E2%80%93Turkey_peace_processhttps://carnegieendowment.org/emissary/2025/05/turkey-pkk-disarm-disband-impacts?lang=enhttps://www.middleeasteye.net/news/pkk-claims-deadly-suicide-bombing-turkish-police-stationhttps://web.archive.org/web/20161016064155/https://hrwf.eu/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Child-soldiers-in-ISIS-PKK-Boko-Haram%E2%80%A6.pdfhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurdistan_Workers%27_Partyhttps://www.theguardian.com/world/video/2025/jul/11/kurdistan-workers-party-pkk-burn-weapons-in-disarming-ceremony-videohttps://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/7/18/turkiye-pkk-analysis-recalibrates-politicshttps://time.com/7303236/erdogan-war-peace-kurds/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/7/19/unidentified-drone-kills-pkk-member-injures-another-in-iraqhttps://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/unidentified-drone-kills-pkk-member-injures-another-near-iraqs-sulaymaniyah-2025-07-19/https://www.aljazeera.com/video/inside-story/2025/7/11/why-has-the-pkk-ended-its-armed-strugglehttps://archive.is/20250718061819/https://www.haaretz.com/opinion/2025-07-17/ty-article-opinion/.premium/how-the-possible-end-to-turkeys-kurdish-problem-could-become-israels-turkey-problem/00000198-1794-dd64-abb9-bfb5dbf30000https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurdistanhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurdshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Kurdish_dynasties_and_countrieshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Kurdish_nationalism This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letsknowthings.substack.com/subscribe
Get ready for an interstellar ride! Join Al Mega as he interviews legendary comic book writer Joe Casey about his exciting return to the comic scene with his brand-new project from Dynamite Entertainment: Space Quest! We dive deep into Joe's career, creative inspirations, cosmic adventures, and why Space Quest is about to become your next comic book obsession. Don't miss this funny, insightful, and high-energy episode! â Learn more about Joe Casey â Pre-order Space Quest wherever comics are sold! â Subscribe for more creator spotlights! Pick up Space Quest in Shops Now! Follow Joe on Substack: https://thejoecasey.substack.com/ Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 566 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #SpaceQuest #JoeCasey #DynamiteEntertainment #ComicCrusadersPodcast
Welcome to Yahweh's Money: The Crossroads of Religion and Money. I'm Shay Cook, an Accredited Financial Counselor®️, passionate believer, and the founder of Crusaders for Change®️, LLC. If you've ever felt curious, uncomfortable, confused, or even guilty talking about money in a spiritual setting, I created this space for you.We've been taught that money is the root of all evil. That tithing is about obligation, not overflow. That debt is a sign of failure—not a place where grace can show up. But I believe it's time to challenge those narratives.On this podcast, I dive deep into the connection between faith and finances. We'll talk about tithing, saving, debt, financial trauma, generosity, and more—all through a biblical and empowering lens. Because I believe you can be faithful and financially free. You can trust God and still have a budget. You can walk in your purpose without walking in lack.Each episode weaves together scripture, practical financial tools, and real conversations to help you break free from shame, embrace your role as a steward—not a struggler—and build a life of abundance that honors God and your goals.This podcast is part of the mission I've been called to through Crusaders for Change, where we help people walk in financial healing and spiritual wholeness. Visit crusaders4change.org to learn more about our programs and community.If you're ready to stop surviving and start stewarding, I invite you to hit follow. Let's walk this journey together.Send us a text
Every kind of curse and imprecation in the Hebrew language . How Rashi felt when he learned about the Crusader massacres of 1096https://thechesedfund.com/rabbikatz/support-rabbi-katzz-podcast
Today, Al Mega sits down with comic book creator and Cherry Bomb Comics founder, Zack Slattery! We're diving deep into Zack's wild journey from comic fan to publisher and getting the inside scoop on his powerful new releases: The Brooding Muse: Book One and Book Two! What inspired Zack's creative fire? How did he build Cherry Bomb Comics into a brand ready to blow the roof off indie comics? Plus — tons of laughs, insights, and a sneak peek into the emotional and visual madness of The Brooding Muse. This is one episode you don't wanna miss! 🎙ï¸ðŸ'¥ 🔥 Hit that LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE for more indie creator spotlights, and ring the bell for notification wepaaaaa! Cherry Bomb Comics Website: https://broodingmuse.com/ Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 565 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
After two days of fighting, the Crusaders breached Jerusalem's defences and entered the city, leading to intense fighting in the streets and buildings that led to a large-scale massacre of the city's Muslim and Jewish ...
Welcome to another explosive episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast! Your host, Al Mega, is joined by the insanely talented Kane Gallagher—a rising force in the world of indie comics, pulling double duty as both writer and artist of the gritty, no-holds-barred dystopian epic, THE UNDERCLASS! What happens when society breaks down, power shifts to the brutal elite, and the people at the bottom say “enough”? The Underclass is a graphic novel that doesn't pull punches—dealing with themes of inequality, rebellion, survival, and justice, all wrapped in raw, visceral artwork and a story that'll stick with you long after you close the cover. In This Episode: Kane's journey from inspiration to creation The challenges (and rewards) of being both writer and artist Deep dive into the Underclass world: themes, characters, and message The Kickstarter process: what Kane's learned and what you can expect Exclusive scoop on campaign rewards, stretch goals, and future plans Support the project at: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wildnorthcomics/the-underclass-graphic-novel-by-kane-gallagher?ref=e50ua6 Follow on Social media at: https://www.instagram.com/kgdesigns.art/ https://www.facebook.com/wildnorthcomics/ https://www.wildnorthcomics.com/underclass Whether you're a comic creator, fan of dystopian stories, or just love supporting original voices in indie comics—this is the episode for YOU! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 564 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
Sam Darry is a massive lad! Standing at over 2 metres tall and at just 24 years old the man has achieved and been through a lot! And it feels like he is still just getting started, After dominating schoolboy footy, Sam signed with Canterbury young and then made a bold move to head north to the Blues, a decision that he felt gave him the opportunity to become one of the best young locks in the game. It's fair to say it's worked out pretty well for him, being an important piece of the puzzle in the Blues 2024 winning season and going on to become an All Black.In this episode we dive into:Growing up with his mum Kat being being the All Blacks nutritionist How rowing at college helped shape him as an athleteWhy he decided to turn down the Crusaders to head to the BluesTom Robinson's top-tier pranksHow Vern Cotter helped his gameWhat it meant to win the 2024 Super Rugby Title with the BluesWhy Jase Ryan had to square him before his debutHis tight bond with Luke Romano, and lessons he'll never forgetHow he has handled the different injuries he has been hit with throughout his careerAnd how he plans to attack the next three years with a World Cup in sightBig Sam Darry is sharp, humble, and full of unreal yarns. He is on his way to becoming one of the greats, and this episode gives you an insight into the journey and the man of the future legend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The first Assassin's Creed game puts players in the thick of the Siege of Acre during the Third Crusade. We can climb its battlements and fight in the shadow of its mighty walls. In this episode, Dr Nicolas Morton returns to help Matt Lewis explore how the confluence of cultures in the Holy Land produced unique features to Crusader Castles, and what methods could be used to overcome their defences, as demonstrated in the truly epic Siege of Acre.Echoes of History is a Ubisoft podcast, brought to you by History Hit. Hosted by: Matt LewisEdited by: Michael McDaidProduced by: Robin McConnellSenior Producer: Anne-Marie LuffProduction Manager: Beth DonaldsonExecutive Producers: Etienne Bouvier, Julien Fabre, Steve Lanham, Jen BennettMusic:City of Jerusalem by Elitsa AlexandrovaMeditation Begins by Elitsa AlexandrovaIf you liked this podcast please subscribe, share, rate & review. Take part in our listener survey here.Tell us your favourite Assassin's Creed game or podcast episode at echoes-of-history@historyhit.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It's probably sensible, don't you think, for the Blues to consider leaving Eden Park for Mt Smart? It's not going to fix the attendance issues, though they seem to be hoping it will. In the consultation they're doing, the question they're asking fans is whether moving to Mt Smart will make them “more or less likely to attend Blues Super Rugby [mens] home games”. The fans might say yes, but they won't. Mt Smart is no better than Eden Park. It's not easier to get to there with public transport, it's about the same. If you drive you still have to find a park somewhere on the road, or on private property. You're still exposed to the elements in the stand. You're still paying for your beer and chips instead of getting them out of your kitchen. Maybe you could argue Mt Smart has a slight advantage in that you're coming straight off the motorway instead of fighting to get down Dominion Road, but I don't think that's enough of a difference to supercharge the crowd. Maybe you could argue that because the Warriors and Auckland FC are there, fans form a habit, so they go because they know how to go. But again, I don't think that's the problem. I think the problem is Super Rugby You're seeing poor turnout for Super Rugby regular season games around the country. 6000 are turning up for Moana Pasifika games. 13,000 for the Crusaders. 11,000 for the Blues. 11,000 in a 50,000 capacity stadium looks horrible. 11,000 in a 25,000 capacity stadium like Mt Smart looks less bad. But it's giving up, isn't it? The Blues leaving the home of rugby is basically accepting that this is how it is, that the crowd size of 11,000 is simply how it's going to be. What they should really be doing is finding smart ways to get us to come to Super Rugby games again. Find ways to get families along. Eden Park's kid zone with the bouncy castle is the right kind of thinking. Find ways to get us excited about the game of rugby. I'm sorry, but it's a boring product. Unless they do that, crowds that only fill quarter of a stadium are the future, in which case, move to Mt Smart. A smaller stadium will hide the empty seats better. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More guards try to stop our Crusaders but in the process, the party finds an old friend. Cast: Gary Eoff - Game Master Gary Garcia - Thwip McClintock Phillip De Leon - Genoeva Natacia Ursula de Cascabel aka "Genny" Keith Thomason - Yaneeko John Blizzard - Diego Dominus Klint Georgeson - Porkchop Music: Into the Abyss from Realm of Shadows by Midnight Syndicate (https://www.midnightsyndicate.com/product/realm-of-shadows/) Halls of Insurrection from Gates of Delirium by Midnight Syndicate (https://www.midnightsyndicate.com/product/gates-of-delirium/) Ambiance: Sword Coast Soundscapes (http://www.youtube.com/swordcoastsoundscapes) Need some snacks to enhance your gaming session? Check out the D&D Adventures Rations Pack from Mythical Meats! https://shop.mythicalmeats.com/products/dungeons-dragons-variety-pack?sca_ref=7946851.eGmnnJQVAwIneaihttps://ntsdgaming.com?sca_ref=6402987.ZaeDIC1rRt
No one has won more Super Rugby titles than Mitchell Drummond! A man who has done it all in the red and black jersey, Drummy has won 3 NPC titles with Canterbury and a ridiculous 8 Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders – yes, 8 titles! Add to that a test for the All Blacks, a stint with the Barbarians, over 100 games for Canterbury, and being the youngest ever Crusaders centurion and you start to get the picture.But beyond the stats, Mitch has been the Glue Guy for the Canterbury Region for over a decade, a man who has genuinely put the team first and always nailed his role in the side whatever that may be.In this episode, we chat about:- An exclusive announcement on where he will be playing his rugby this season- Why he chose Rugby over a promising Cricket career- Why he turned down an offer from another Club- How he went from playing against the All Blacks one week to playing for them the next- An insight into the competitive rivalry with Bryn Hall- His struggles with social media comments- How he feels about his Dad owning the Highlanders- And all of your questions!Drummy also gives some great insights into leadership, what's made the Crusaders successful, and great advice for young aspiring rugby player.Mitch Drummond is one special human and this episode is one of the great episodes! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Joseph Spurgeon shares an unfiltered interview from Anatomy of the Church and State with host Jeremiah Campana. Together they tackle the controversial topic of the Crusades—the errors, the bravery, the eternal stakes—and what Christian men today must learn. Was it all just Roman Catholic works-righteousness? Was it a defense of Christendom? What should modern men reclaim? What must we reject? If you’ve ever fantasized about being a Crusader—but can’t show up for church or your family—this episode is for you. Chapters & Timestamps: 00:00 – Cold Open: Godfrey of Bouillon and the Crown of Thorns 01:50 – Introduction: Sharing a Cross-Podcast Interview 03:20 – Jeremiah’s Introduction & Why the Crusades Matter Now 05:40 – Joseph’s Journey into Studying the Crusades 07:15 – The Liberal vs. Conservative Take on the Crusades 09:00 – What Was Bad About the Crusades? (Indulgences & Works-Righteousness) 13:40 – Why Protestants Should Still Care About This History 15:00 – Eternal Thinking: Why Even Their Errors Convict Us 17:00 – The Church and State Problem (What Went Wrong & What Was Right) 20:20 – Don't Pick Up the Sword If You Haven’t Picked Up Your Bible 22:00 – The Martial Spirit of the Crusaders—Why It Still Matters 24:00 – Real Sacrifice: Time, Wealth, and Blood 28:30 – How Do We Know a Mission Is From God? 30:00 – Godly Zeal Must Be Biblical, Not Rogue 32:30 – The Importance of Biblical Literacy for Men 34:50 – The Real Unity of the Church—And What Divides Us 39:00 – How Disunity Helped Destroy the Crusades 41:00 – Church and State: How Should They Work Together? 45:00 – We Don’t Need New Crusades—We Need Repentance 47:00 – How Local Action Can Change a Nation 51:00 – Final Charge: If You Can’t Love Your Church, Don’t Talk About Crusading 58:30 – Prayer & Close Topics Covered: ✅ The theological errors behind the Crusades ✅ Why eternal-mindedness matters today ✅ The rightful role of the church and state ✅ How men can show martial spirit without physical warfare ✅ The need for local faithfulness before global impact ✅ What real unity in the church demands from us ✅ Why defending the unborn is the battle of our time ✅ Loving your neighbor starts at your local church TAKE ACTION: Don’t just learn—lead. Find a way this week to love your local church, engage your community, and honor Christ with zeal and truth. Build. Fight. Protect. Lead. This is The Patriarchy. Connect with The Patriarchy Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePatriarchyPodcast Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/58tm5zjz Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/f3ruzrsa Website & All Links: https://linktr.ee/thepatriarchypodcast Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatriarchyPodcast Twitter/X: https://x.com/PatriarchyPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatriarchypodcast Gab: https://gab.com/thepatriarchypodcast ________________________________________ Sponsored By: Patriarch Cigars – For men who reject passivity and take dominion Order now: https://patriarchcigars.com/ Fit Father Project – Reclaim discipline and strength for life Start here: https://secure.fitfatherproject.com/a/transformation/4539
The queen of chaos returns! Join host Al Mega on the Comic Crusaders Podcast as he reunites with legendary creator Greg Weisman to talk about his hotly anticipated Dynamite Comics series, Gargoyles: Demona. Dive into Demona's darker depths, discover Greg's best-kept storytelling secrets, and hear hilarious behind-the-scenes moments from Greg himself! Gargoyles fans, comic creators, and lovers of epic villains—this episode is your jam! Don't miss out—hit that subscribe button and ring the bell! Follow Greg on X at: @Greg_Weisman About Gargoyles: Demona #1 A THOUSAND YEARS OF ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE! After kicking off with a special prologue story in Dynamite Entertainment's Free Comic Book Day issue #0, the long-awaited tale of Goliath's former love and sworn enemy of the Manhattan Clan gets underway in earnest with a return to the Dark Ages and the aftermath of the destruction of Castle Wyvern! The year is 1093, and the now-immortal Demona has become a lonely and hunted creature. Bereft of both clan and home after her betrayal of Scotland's king, she wanders south to Northumberland in search of a safe haven – only to find that her old nemesis, Canmore, is raiding the city. Canmore's destruction is visited upon human and Gargoyle alike, and when she discovers the depths of his cruelty and the fate of her kind at his hands, Demona's fury sets in motion a cycle of vengeance that will last for centuries – and may yet consume the entire world! Written by Gargoyles creator GREG WEISMAN and illustrated by acclaimed artist – and veteran of the original animated series – FRANK PAUR, this first chapter of the brand-new, centuries-spanning saga Gargoyles: Demona features cover art for the ages from PAUR, MEGHAN HETRICK, MARK SPEARS, and JAE LEE & JUNE CHUNG! Visit Dynamite Comics for more! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 561 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
Rugby fans don't get much bigger than Colin Mansbridge! Who also just happens to be potentially the most successful CEO in all sport, having been the Crusaders CEO for the last 8 years which includes 7 Titles! However, for many it was the way he handled himself and the organisation last season when Crusaders missed the top 8 which was most impressive!In this episode, Colin brings plenty of honesty, insight, and laughs and we go through some of the challenges and triumphs of being the boss!Some parts that stood out in this one were...Why he decided to ban the Cow Bells from the Super Rugby finalHis take on Super Rugby and where it's headingWhy he stood by Rob Penney and didn't panic after the 2024 seasonHis love for rugby and in particular scrumsHow he landed the CEO gig despite thinking he couldn't run a rugby clubThe decision behind the Crusaders rebrandHis thoughts on the new stadiumHow he ended up on TikTok,Who he reckons is the best player he's ever CEO'dAnd of course… his secret to locking down a good scrumColin brings the same level-headedness and wit to this chat that he brings to one of rugby's most demanding jobs. If you want to understand what really goes on behind the curtain at the Crusaders, this one is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Omar Morales Returns! New Comic Major Thomás from Comixology Originals After four years, comic book creator Omar Morales returns to the Comic Crusaders Podcast for a stellar conversation with Al Mega! From the faith-fueled pages of CruZader to the interstellar drama of Major Thomás, Omar takes us on a wild ride through creativity, culture, and cosmic adventure. Hear the story behind his new sci-fi epic Major Thomás, now available via Comixology Originals, featuring art by Serg Acuña and Mau Mora. 🔥 Topics Include: How Omar's creative journey evolved since Episode #56 Behind-the-scenes of Major Thomás Representation in sci-fi What's next for this dynamic storyteller 🎯 Available Now on Comixology Originals! Link to purchase: a.co/d/d1SvuCa Follow Omar on Social Media at: @omorales81 Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 560 in an unlimited series! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega
How do we relate to the most recent events in the Middle-East? In 638 the Moslems transformed the city; but what was their motivation? What created the divisions of Jewish observance in the 10th century? Why was the Golden Gate sealed off? How did the Christian East-West Schism of 1054 affect Jewish lives in Jerusalem? To register for the Maharal - Prague Tour 8th-11th September contact: giana.elav@gmail.com Chapters 00:00 The Treaty of Jerusalem: A Historical Overview 04:03 The Islamic Conquest and Its Impact on Jerusalem 09:46 The Role of Caliph Omar and the Covenant of Omar 13:56 The Dynasties of Islamic Rule in Jerusalem 19:52 The Jewish Community in Jerusalem: A Historical Perspective 25:50 The Golden Gate and Its Significance 31:37 The Cultural Exchange Between East and West 37:45 The Fatimid Period and Its Tolerance 41:39 The Decline of Islamic Rule and the Rise of the Crusaders
Once again the Off the Deep End triumvirate (Braden, Chris, Adam) have delved into long forgotten dungeons in order to procure the wisdom of D.W. Bradley from ages long past. Exploring the seventh Wizardry game is no easy task, however, as they have to brave its intricate world, complex character building, and very 1992 sense of difficulty. You'll also learn about Wizardry Gaiden, Wizardry 6, Wizardry 8, games that came out in roughly the same time period as Wizardry 7, and in general the word Wizardry is going to be spoken too many times. We're not sorry. Please consider donating to the National Network of Abortion Funds: abortionfunds.org/donate If you've been enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting us at https://www.patreon.com/DeepListens If you like our new art and want to commission some of your own, reach out to Tyler at tylerorbin.net
In lieu of a typical AP episode this week, we're releasing the first two episodes of our standalone miniseries on the First Crusade with the crew from We're Not So Different. Get the rest of the series here. Our journey through the First Crusade starts where the Crusaders themselves did: in western Europe with Pope Urban II and the Council of Clermont. We discuss conditions in Latin Christendom in the late 11th century, what prompted the Pope's call for Crusade, and how it was received by European nobles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
And now for something a little different: American Prestige has released the first two episodes of their standalone miniseries with the crew from We're Not So Different. Get the rest of the episodes here.Our journey through the First Crusade starts where the Crusaders themselves did: in western Europe with Pope Urban II and the Council of Clermont. We'll discuss conditions in Latin Christendom in the late 11th century, what prompted the Pope's call for Crusade, and how it was received by European nobles.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy