Podcasts about Dutch

Creating Organizational Cultures That Actually Work In this episode, Michael and cultural anthropologist Jitske Kramer dive deep into the heart of organizational culture. Michael shares a story from a startup he supported, where a crystal clear sense of purpose created unity, loyalty, and a genuine feeling of belonging. Employees stayed because they felt connected to something bigger than a job description. Jitske expands on this by highlighting how leaders shape culture through the behaviors, values, and norms they model. She stresses that culture is never an accident. It is a series of daily choices and conversations. When leaders fail to engage with their teams or invite them into meaningful decision making, organizations lose clarity and people lose their sense of belonging. Both Michael and Jitske agree that leaders miss countless opportunities to build trust simply because they are not intentionally engaging with their people. Transformative Leadership and the Power of Human Connection Michael brings up a powerful metaphor involving an orchestra conductor to show how communication and knowledge flow can transform the relationship between leaders and their teams. When the conductor shifts from directing to connecting, the entire ensemble transforms. The energy changes. People take ownership. Collaboration becomes natural rather than forced. Jitske builds on this idea by contrasting transactional interactions with transformative ones. Transactional moments keep the lights on, but transformative moments build the future. She emphasizes the need for what she calls campfire conversations. These are the unhurried, human centered discussions where ideas form, trust deepens, and innovation actually has space to emerge. They conclude that the most successful organizations are the ones that prioritize human to human connection over rigid systems and corporate scripts. Finding Clarity in the Messy Middle of Change Jitske introduces her latest book, Tricky Times, which explores liminality. Liminality refers to the messy middle stage of change when the old story no longer works and the new story is not yet formed. She describes this phase as uncomfortable but deeply necessary. She explains that societies worldwide are wrestling with a kind of midlife crisis. People are questioning the expectation of nonstop economic growth and the conflict it creates with environmental and social realities. In these liminal spaces, power dynamics shift. Cultural identities get rewritten. Leaders are challenged to redefine what truly matters. Michael shares how timely these insights feel, especially given the current political climate in the United States and abroad. He highlights how difficult but essential conversations shape whether we move forward with intention or stay stuck in old patterns. Leading with Courage in Tricky Times Jitske describes the leadership challenges she writes about in Tricky Times. She warns against leaders who act like tricksters, constantly pushing boundaries without offering guidance or stability. True leadership requires bold honesty, grounded decision making, and the willingness to enter uncomfortable conversations. She emphasizes that balanced leadership is essential. Leaders must be willing to question assumptions, tell the truth about what is working and what is not, and invite their organizations into deeper reflection. Tricky Times has become a bestseller in the Netherlands, and Jitske is sharing its message with influential political leaders who are navigating uncertainty on a national scale. The book is available as an e-book on Amazon and offers a grounded, human centered framework for leading through cultural transformation. Jitske Kramer is a renowned Dutch corporate anthropologist who translates real-world lessons from communities around the globe into practical tools for modern workplaces.    She travels the world to learn from traditional healers, innovators, random passers-by, and everyday communities, studying how humans bond, lead, and resolve conflict — and brings those insights into the boardroom.   Her latest book, Tricky Times (a #1 Dutch bestseller), explores what it takes to lead in “the messy middle” — those uncertain in-between phases where old systems break down before new ones emerge.    With 25+ years of experience, she has shaped transformation for Nike, Unilever, Calvin Klein, and Philips, authored 9 bestselling books (150,000+ copies sold), and spoken alongside Simon Sinek, Amy Edmondson, Yuval Noah Harari on stages like TEDx and Workhuman Live.   Jitske's sharp, funny, and “aha”-filled style makes anthropology highly accessible for leaders facing change, culture challenges, and transformation.   Topics:  The messy middle: Leading effectively through uncertainty and liminal times The real drivers of company culture: Rituals, symbols, and hidden power structures How to “think like an anthropologist” to sense change and spot unseen dynamics The difference between formal power and cultural power — and why rank-awareness is critical for leaders What tribes can teach today's organizations about handling dilemmas and conflict   More about Jitske:  Founder of HumanDimensions, a pioneering training company that helps organizations strengthen teamwork and company culture.  Featured in the Patterns of Life documentary series, in which she traveled to India as an anthropologist.  Former Fellow at the Oxford Leadership Academy; holds a master's degree in cultural anthropology from Utrecht University.  Other books by Jitske: Building Tribes, Wow! What a Difference, Work Has Left the Building, Jam Cultures, andThe Corporate Tribe (which won the prestigious 2016 Management book of the Year Award). Take a look at Jitske's keynotes, other public speeches, TV appearances, and writings.    To get a sense of Jitske, here's an appearance she made on The Culture Lab podcast, talking about the making of a corporate tribe and how to effectively deal with diversity in a team. 

Today's post was contributed by our Cheryl Sacks. She is the author of six books, including her latest, Fire on the Family Altar: Experience the Holy Spirit's Power in Your Home, available at fireonthefamilyaltar.com or on AmazonLearn more about the podcast hereLearn more about Give Him Fifteen hereSupport the show

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Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Farewell at Amsterdam Centraal: A Journey Beyond Goodbyes Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-18-08-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: Het was een koude winteravond in Amsterdam.En: It was a cold winter evening in Amsterdam.Nl: De straten waren stil, bedekt met zachte sneeuw, en alleen de lichten van de kerstversiering gaven wat warmte.En: The streets were quiet, covered with soft snow, and only the lights of the Christmas decorations provided some warmth.Nl: Bram, Femke en Tijn stapten snel door de deuren van het drukke Centraal Station.En: Bram, Femke, and Tijn quickly stepped through the doors of the busy Centraal Station.Nl: De klokken tikten onverbiddelijk terwijl de sfeer van hun afscheidsfeestje nog om hen heen hing.En: The clocks ticked relentlessly while the atmosphere of their farewell party still lingered around them.Nl: "Kom op, we moeten snel zijn," zei Femke, haar adem condenseerde in de koude lucht.En: "Come on, we have to hurry," said Femke, her breath condensing in the cold air.Nl: De feestelijke lichten boven hun hoofden glinsterden, maar het zat Bram dwars.En: The festive lights above their heads sparkled, but it bothered Bram.Nl: Tijn stond aan de vooravond van een spannend avontuur.En: Tijn stood on the eve of an exciting adventure.Nl: Hij zou verhuizen naar een ander land.En: He was about to move to another country.Nl: Maar in zijn ogen was er een glimp van twijfel te zien.En: But there was a glimmer of doubt in his eyes.Nl: Femke, altijd optimistisch, hield haar vrienden dicht bij elkaar.En: Femke, always optimistic, kept her friends close together.Nl: Haar lach was aanstekelijk, zelfs nu het moment van afscheid naderde.En: Her laugh was infectious, even now that the moment of farewell was approaching.Nl: De stationshal was druk.En: The station hall was busy.Nl: Mensen renden, koffers rolden en de geur van warme chocolademelk zweefde door de lucht.En: People ran, suitcases rolled, and the smell of hot chocolate wafted through the air.Nl: Het drietal probeerde zich een weg te banen tussen de mensenmassa.En: The trio tried to make their way through the crowd.Nl: Maar de tijd was krap en hun platform leek verder weg dan ooit.En: But time was tight and their platform seemed further away than ever.Nl: Bram voelde een knoop in zijn maag.En: Bram felt a knot in his stomach.Nl: "Als we de laatste trein missen…," begon hij, maar hij stopte.En: "If we miss the last train…," he began, but he stopped.Nl: Het was niet alleen de trein; er lag meer op zijn hart.En: It wasn't just about the train; there was more weighing on his heart.Nl: Moest hij zijn zorgen uitspreken?En: Should he voice his concerns?Nl: Wat als Tijn dan echt zou vertrekken met een lastig gevoel?En: What if Tijn actually left with a troubled feeling?Nl: Maar de woorden brandden op zijn lippen.En: But the words burned on his lips.Nl: Femke leidde de weg, haar ogen speurden naar de juiste borden.En: Femke led the way, her eyes scanning for the right signs.Nl: Ze was de spil van de groep, degene die het altijd samenhield.En: She was the backbone of the group, the one who always kept it together.Nl: Ze draaide zich om en zag de aarzeling op Brams gezicht.En: She turned and saw the hesitation on Bram's face.Nl: "Het komt goed, Bram," glimlachte ze geruststellend.En: "It will be alright, Bram," she smiled reassuringly.Nl: Eindelijk... daar was het platform.En: Finally... there was the platform.Nl: En precies op dat moment, terwijl de minuten wegtikten, kon Bram het niet langer inhouden.En: And just at that moment, as the minutes ticked away, Bram could no longer hold back.Nl: "Tijn, wat als je spijt krijgt?," zei hij vlug, zijn ogen ernstig.En: "Tijn, what if you regret it?" he said quickly, his eyes serious.Nl: De woorden hingen in de lucht, zwaar maar noodzakelijk.En: The words hung in the air, heavy but necessary.Nl: Er volgde een korte stilte, slechts onderbroken door het geluid van vertrekkende treinen.En: A brief silence followed, only interrupted by the sound of departing trains.Nl: Tijn zuchtte, keek Bram recht in de ogen, en zei dan: "Bram, ik ga misschien weg, maar jullie blijven mijn thuis.En: Tijn sighed, looked Bram straight in the eyes, and then said, "Bram, I may be leaving, but you all remain my home.Nl: We houden contact, echt waar."En: We'll keep in touch, really."Nl: Bram voelde de druk in zijn borst verdwijnen.En: Bram felt the pressure in his chest disappear.Nl: Hij knikte langzaam, inhaleerde de warme lucht doorspekt met kerstkruiden, en glimlachte tenslotte.En: He nodded slowly, inhaled the warm air spiced with Christmas scents, and finally smiled.Nl: Tijns woorden hadden een deuropening naar begrip gecreëerd.En: Tijn's words had opened a door to understanding.Nl: Met hun trein op het punt te vertrekken, stapten ze in, het einde van een hoofdstuk, maar ook het begin van een nieuw.En: With their train about to depart, they stepped inside, the end of a chapter, but also the beginning of a new one.Nl: De trein trok langzaam station Amsterdam Centraal uit.En: The train slowly pulled out of Amsterdam Centraal station.Nl: De lichten aan de kerstboom voor het raam dansten zachtjes in de duisternis van de nacht.En: The lights on the Christmas tree outside the window danced gently in the darkness of the night.Nl: Bram begreep nu dat vriendschap ruimte geeft om eerlijk te zijn.En: Bram now understood that friendship provides the space to be honest.Nl: En daarin ligt een comfort dat verder reikt dan welke reis dan ook.En: And in that lies a comfort that reaches further than any journey. Vocabulary Words:relentlessly: onverbiddelijkatmosphere: sfeerfarewell: afscheidcondensing: condenseerdeinfectious: aanstekelijkglimmer: glimpplatform: platformhesitation: aarzelingreassuringly: geruststellenddeparture: vertreklinger: hangenweighing: wegenspiced: doorspektchapter: hoofdstukhome: thuisadventure: avontuurtroubled: lastigdwars: botheredunderstanding: begripknit: samenhieldtight: krapbackbone: spilnod: kniktenbothers: zittensilence: stilteglanced: keekexpressed: uitsprekenticked: tiktanticipation: vooravondregret: spijt

Dutch joins the cast to talk Hydra.Roster: jarvis-protocol.com/rosters/6d98ed66-1a90-479b-b83f-e654caf66490Join our discord where we chat every day: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/kVtYy7Z⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you enjoy this content and are in a position to support us, please consider becoming a patron: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/TheDangerRoomPodcast⁠⁠⁠

It's almost Christmas and that's why you'll learn some words and traditions in the Netherlands around Christmas. Joyce Diebels from 'Dutch with Joyce' gives the explanation. - Het is bijna kerst en daarom leer je in deze aflevering over woorden en gebruiken rondom Kerstmis in Nederland. Joyce Diebels van Dutch with Joyce geeft de uitleg erbij.

In this episode, we travel to the Netherlands to speak with Brian Koopmans, a validation engineer and media volunteer for the Church of the Nazarene's Eurasia Region. Brian discusses the launch of the "Everyday Eurasia" podcast and the unique challenges of producing content for a region spanning numerous languages. We also delve into Dutch history, exploring the legacy of theologian Jacobus Arminius and Brian's upcoming documentary project. Finally, hear Brian's heart for missions and his desire to serve the church full-time through media.   Everyday Eurasia Podcast   Lifelong Learning Code: 80890 Click here to learn about Lifelong Learning.  

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The return of bump-slash combat is here, but what we're positing is: What if it's time for throw up and explode combat?Disclaimer: We recorded this before the recent news about Larian's use of generative AI for creative work. It's very disappointing.Discussed: the Vita is here, Persona 4 Golden, the upcoming remake of P4, our experience getting into Persona, our S-Link arcana, Vita games we're most excited for, a caveat from the future, the Divinity trailer, BG3, Divinity Original Sin 2, the pending fate of GTA 6, 2025 takeaways, Angeline Era, bump-slash renaissance, Octopath Traveler 0, Octopath as a series, the upcoming Elliott sweep, GOTY EveFind us everywhere: https://intothecast.onlineBuy some merch, if you'd like: https://shop.intothecast.onlineJoin the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/intothecast---Follow Stephen Hilger: https://bsky.app/profile/stephenhilger.bsky.social Follow Brendon Bigley: https://bsky.app/profile/bb.wavelengths.onlineProduced by AJ Fillari: https://bsky.app/profile/ajfillari.bsky.social---Season 8 cover art by Scout Wilkinson: https://scoutwilkinson.myportfolio.com/Theme song by Will LaPorte: https://ghostdown.online/---Timecodes:(00:00) - Intro (00:24) - Vita means life! (07:10) - Persona 4 Golden | PSP stands for PerSona Playing (40:03) - What Vita game are you looking forward to? (44:58) - Break (45:00) - Quick Larian caveat (47:34) - Divinity | Vibe check (01:13:35) - Break (01:13:36) - C'mon Dutch! Bring me to that statue in the desert! (01:15:33) - Angeline Era | Brendon's been gaming (01:28:55) - Break (01:28:57) - Octopath Traveler 0 | A power-driven podcast (01:49:35) - GOTY eve! (01:54:00) - Wrapping up ---Thanks to all of our amazing patrons, including our Eternal Gratitude members:Vincent JPatrick KEd AJ-RockSamantha DNorth HeroSam HSnzznJ-RockGregory Mark SCmndr BiscuiticemanChristian HRydan BCaleb HArden FEye of the DuckKaleNathan EJ. H. AjoelchronoMellowMatthew BRobin LPSeekingSeakingJimmerszoey!Vinny MMattKerry KBrian MNoah DZach DChristopher TDHugo WToddChris BLukerfuffleStephen YDaniel GEric FTaran WBrendan OChris ZClayton MZach RDylan NFederico VTigerz RevengeLogan HAlan RJohn AMike LmattjanzzDavid MHeavyPixelsKaleb HTyler JCorey ZSusan HBarry TRobert RChris JBrett Allen HDan SJack SGarrett CjimiiboJohn HDirch FJim EJim WTristan LEvan BAwfulHanzomin2Aaron GJean HTodd Nred_wagonNeilPeter BJohn VvErik MRedmage77Joshua JTony LDanny KGibson GKate Duncan BRichard MDaniel NSeth MJamesAndy HDemoEmmaLyn ECorey TCaleb WJake LJesse WMike TCodesMatt BWesleymebezacAlex LSergio LninjadeathdogRory BA42PoundMooseRobert MMichael WAndrewthis_JUSTINRyan O14.3 billion yearsBrendan KMegan BSecretAgentKoalaNoah OArcturusAndrew WhepaheChase ALoveDiesNick QChris MRBKaren HAdam FScott HAlexander SMatt HMurrayDavid PJason KMicah OKamrin HAndrew DKyle SPhilip N ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

What happens when a flex workspace veteran with decades of global experience decides the future isn't about branded coworking takeovers—but about making flex invisible so the building itself can thrive? In this episode, Andrea Pirrotti, Head of Real Estate at infinitSpace, shares her unconventional approach to helping landlords activate underutilized space without heavy CapEx, long lease-up timelines, or the friction that comes with traditional flex operators. Andrea's background is extensive—she ran global marketing for IWG across 65 countries, led operations at Office Evolution, and now she's bringing a Dutch operator's profitable, partnership-first model to the Americas. We cover: Why spec suites look like a solution but often lose money for landlords How infinitSpace's semi-white-label model (Beyond) blends into a building's existing design and brand The fatal mistakes operators make that Andrea's team capitalizes on when taking over failed spaces Why "high optics, low friction" (like a barista at the entrance) creates outsized value without blowing budgets The magic 10% rule: why every building should dedicate at least 10% of inventory to flex Why banks still don't know how to value flex revenue—and what needs to change If you're a landlord wondering whether flex makes sense for your building, or an operator curious about partnership models that actually work, this conversation is essential listening. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Andrea Pirrotti on LinkedIn infinitSpace website Everything Coworking Featured Resources: Masterclass: 3 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets to Opening a Coworking Space Coworking Startup School Community Manager University Follow Us on YouTube

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: An Unexpected Turn: Love on Thin Ice in Amsterdam Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-17-08-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De winterzon scheen helder boven de ijsbaan.En: The winter sun shone brightly above the ice rink.Nl: De sfeer op de ijsbaan in Amsterdam was magisch.En: The atmosphere at the ijsbaan in Amsterdam was magical.Nl: Lichtjes twinkelden rond de bomen en de geur van warme chocolademelk hing in de lucht.En: Lights twinkled around the trees, and the scent of hot chocolate filled the air.Nl: Het was begin december en overal waren de voorbereidingen voor Sinterklaas zichtbaar.En: It was early December, and preparations for Sinterklaas were visible everywhere.Nl: Kinderen stonden in de rij voor pepernoten en families genoten van de feestelijke sfeer.En: Children lined up for pepernoten, and families enjoyed the festive atmosphere.Nl: Thijs stond aan de rand van de ijsbaan, zijn handen in de zakken van zijn dikke jas.En: Thijs stood at the edge of the ice rink, his hands in the pockets of his thick coat.Nl: Zijn adem maakte wolkjes in de koude lucht.En: His breath formed little clouds in the cold air.Nl: Hij keek om zich heen, op zoek naar Sanne.En: He looked around, searching for Sanne.Nl: Dit was hun eerste date.En: This was their first date.Nl: Hij wilde Sanne graag indrukken, maar zijn knieën voelden ineens een beetje week.En: He wanted to impress Sanne but suddenly his knees felt a little weak.Nl: Sanne verscheen met een stralende glimlach.En: Sanne appeared with a radiant smile.Nl: Naast haar liep Bram, haar broer.En: Beside her was Bram, her brother.Nl: "Thijs!"En: "Thijs!"Nl: riep Sanne vrolijk.En: Sanne called out cheerfully.Nl: Thijs zwaaide en knikte naar Bram, die een beetje nors terug knikte.En: Thijs waved and nodded to Bram, who nodded back somewhat gruffly.Nl: "Bram wilde graag mee," legde Sanne uit, met een verontschuldigende blik.En: "Bram wanted to come along," Sanne explained, with an apologetic glance.Nl: Thijs glimlachte, een beetje ongemakkelijk, maar hij wilde geen spelbreker zijn.En: Thijs smiled, a bit awkwardly, but he didn't want to be a spoilsport.Nl: Ze bonden allemaal hun schaatsen vast.En: They all laced up their skates.Nl: Bram keek zelfverzekerd, hoewel hij duidelijk moeite had om zijn balans te vinden.En: Bram looked confident, although he clearly struggled to find his balance.Nl: "Ik zal je wel leren schaatsen, Thijs," zei Bram, terwijl hij wankelend naar de rand van de ijsbaan gleed.En: "I'll teach you how to skate, Thijs," Bram said as he stumbled toward the edge of the rink.Nl: Thijs probeerde zich staande te houden op het ijs.En: Thijs tried to steady himself on the ice.Nl: Bram begon direct met "instructies".En: Bram immediately began with "instructions."Nl: "Je moet je knieën verder buigen," riep Bram, terwijl hij zelf bijna viel.En: "You need to bend your knees more," Bram shouted, almost falling himself.Nl: De andere schaatsers keken met interesse naar de klungelige interactie tussen de drie.En: The other skaters watched with interest at the clumsy interaction between the three.Nl: Thijs deed zijn best om de aanwijzingen van Bram op te volgen, maar het resultaat was een onhandige dans op het ijs.En: Thijs did his best to follow Bram's advice, but the result was an awkward dance on the ice.Nl: Plotseling verloor Thijs zijn evenwicht toen Bram tegen hem aan botste.En: Suddenly, Thijs lost his balance when Bram bumped into him.Nl: Hij viel voorover en gleed zo de baan op, recht in een groep skaters verkleed als Sinterklaas.En: He fell forward and slid onto the rink, right into a group of skaters dressed as Sinterklaas.Nl: Het tafereel eindigde in een lachwekkende opstapeling van rode mantels en gouden mijters.En: The scene ended in a comical pile-up of red robes and golden miters.Nl: Sanne keek geschrokken, maar al snel brak ze in lachen uit toen ze zag dat niemand gewond was.En: Sanne looked shocked, but soon she broke into laughter when she saw no one was hurt.Nl: Thijs hief een hand op terwijl hij op de grond lag, zijn gezicht rood van het lachen.En: Thijs raised a hand as he lay on the ground, his face red with laughter.Nl: "Sorry!"En: "Sorry!"Nl: riep hij met een vrolijke knipoog naar Sanne.En: he called with a cheerful wink at Sanne.Nl: Bram strompelde naar hen toe, zichzelf schuldig voelend.En: Bram stumbled over to them, feeling guilty.Nl: "Misschien had ik niet moeten proberen te helpen," mompelde hij, terwijl hij Sanne hielp om Thijs overeind te trekken.En: "Maybe I shouldn't have tried to help," he mumbled, helping Sanne pull Thijs up.Nl: Sanne schudde haar hoofd glimlachend.En: Sanne shook her head, smiling.Nl: "Het was tenminste memorabel," zei ze, terwijl ze haar hand op Thijs' arm legde.En: "At least it was memorable," she said, placing her hand on Thijs' arm.Nl: Ze keek in zijn ogen en zag zijn eerlijkheid en humor.En: She looked into his eyes and saw his honesty and humor.Nl: Thijs haalde diep adem en glimlachte breed.En: Thijs took a deep breath and smiled broadly.Nl: "Nou, ik dacht dat een dramatische entree misschien punten zou scoren."En: "Well, I thought a dramatic entrance might score some points."Nl: Ze lachte samen en de spanning leek te verdampen.En: They laughed together, and the tension seemed to melt away.Nl: Ze besloten een rondje te lopen, zich uitleven in de vreugde van het moment en de magie van Sinterklaasavond.En: They decided to take a walk, reveling in the joy of the moment and the magic of Sinterklaasavond.Nl: Het werd een dag vol plezier en onverwachte connecties.En: It turned into a day filled with fun and unexpected connections.Nl: Ook zonder perfecte schaatstechniek ontdekte Thijs dat prachtige momenten vaak in de kleinste dingen te vinden zijn.En: Even without perfect skating technique, Thijs discovered that beautiful moments are often found in the smallest things.Nl: En zo werd een chaotisch begin een herinnering die ze alle drie nog lang zouden koesteren.En: And so, a chaotic start became a memory they would all cherish for a long time. Vocabulary Words:ice rink: ijsbaanatmosphere: sfeertwinkle: twinkelenscent: geurpreparations: voorbereidingenfestive: feestelijkebreath: ademknee: knieradiant: stralendeawkwardly: ongemakkelijkspoilsport: spelbrekerlaced up: vastbondenconfident: zelfverzekerdbalance: balanssteady: staande te houdeninstructions: instructiesbend: buigenclumsy: klungeligstumbled: wankelendpile-up: opstapelingrobe: mantelguilty: schuldigmemorable: memoreerbaarapologetic: verontschuldigendegruffly: norsdramatic: dramatischetension: spanningreveling: uitlevenchaotic: chaotischcherish: koesteren

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: A Heartwarming Christmas on Ice: Love Under Falling Snowflakes Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-17-23-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: Onder de glinsterende kerstlichten van de stad, bevond de drukke ijsbaan zich in het hart van de feestelijkheden.En: Under the shimmering Christmas lights of the city, the bustling ice rink was at the heart of the festivities.Nl: Bram stond zenuwachtig op zijn schaatsen.En: Bram stood nervously on his skates.Nl: Sneeuwvlokken dwarrelden zachtjes naar beneden en de muziek van kerstmuziek vulde de frisse winterlucht.En: Snowflakes gently drifted down, and the music of Christmas carols filled the crisp winter air.Nl: Terwijl hij naar Sanne keek, die gracieus over het ijs gleed, voelde hij een lichte duizeligheid over zich heen komen.En: As he watched Sanne, who glided gracefully across the ice, he felt a slight dizziness come over him.Nl: "Het gaat goed," fluisterde Bram tegen zichzelf.En: "It's going well," Bram whispered to himself.Nl: Hij wilde zijn eerste date met Sanne niet verpesten.En: He didn't want to ruin his first date with Sanne.Nl: Sanne, in haar glanzende roze jas, had een vastberaden blik in haar ogen.En: Sanne, in her shiny pink coat, had a determined look in her eyes.Nl: Ze wilde indruk maken op Bram, maar diep van binnen voelde ze de vlinders in haar buik.En: She wanted to impress Bram, but deep down she felt butterflies in her stomach.Nl: Op dat moment probeerde Sanne een gedurfde draai.En: At that moment, Sanne attempted a daring spin.Nl: Haar schaatsen gleden snel over het ijs, maar halverwege verloor ze haar evenwicht en viel.En: Her skates glided swiftly over the ice, but halfway through she lost her balance and fell.Nl: Omstanders keken geschrokken op, maar Sanne lachte het weg terwijl ze overeind krabbelde.En: Onlookers looked on in surprise, but Sanne laughed it off as she scrambled upright.Nl: Ondanks haar overmoed toverde haar glimlach een geruststellend gevoel.En: Despite her daring move, her smile offered a reassuring feeling.Nl: Bram schaatste naar haar toe, zich zorgen makend, terwijl zijn hoofd begon te bonzen van de koorts die hij verdoezelde.En: Bram skated over to her, worried, while his head started pounding from the fever he was hiding.Nl: "Gaat het, Sanne?"En: "Are you okay, Sanne?"Nl: vroeg hij, terwijl hij zijn hand uitstak.En: he asked, extending his hand.Nl: Zijn stem klonk zwak.En: His voice sounded weak.Nl: Precies op dat moment kwam Marieke aanlopen.En: Just then, Marieke walked over.Nl: Haar ogen scanden de ijsbaan en vonden haar broer.En: Her eyes scanned the ice rink and found her brother.Nl: "Bram!En: "Bram!Nl: Het gaat niet goed met je," riep ze.En: You're not doing well," she called out.Nl: Ze merkte de bleekheid op zijn gezicht en de kleine rimpel van zorgen op zijn voorhoofd.En: She noticed the paleness on his face and the small wrinkle of concern on his forehead.Nl: Met tegenzin gaf Bram toe: "Ja, ik voel me niet zo lekker."En: Reluctantly, Bram admitted, "Yes, I'm not feeling too well."Nl: Hij wilde niet dat de dag in het water viel.En: He didn't want the day to be ruined.Nl: Hij wilde samen met Sanne genieten, ondanks alles.En: He wanted to enjoy the time with Sanne, despite everything.Nl: Marieke legde haar arm om hem heen en keek streng.En: Marieke put her arm around him and looked sternly.Nl: "Laten we wat warme chocolademelk gaan halen," stelde ze voor, haar toon zachter.En: "Let's go get some hot chocolate," she suggested, her tone softer.Nl: Ze begreep zijn verlangen naar een goede dag, maar ook de noodzaak van rust.En: She understood his desire for a good day, but also the necessity of rest.Nl: In het gezellige café naast de ijsbaan, zaten ze rond een tafeltje met stomende bekers chocola voor zich.En: In the cozy café next to the ice rink, they sat around a small table with steaming cups of chocolate in front of them.Nl: De warmte van de chocolademelk deed Bram goed en Sanne voelde haar vingers weer tintelen na de val.En: The warmth of the hot chocolate did Bram good, and Sanne felt her fingers tingle again after the fall.Nl: Hoewel niet alles volgens plan was gegaan, straalde een lichte tevredenheid in hun ogen.En: Although not everything had gone according to plan, a light sense of satisfaction shone in their eyes.Nl: Bram keek naar Sanne, zijn stem eerlijk: "Bedankt dat je vandaag met me wilde doorbrengen.En: Bram looked at Sanne, his voice sincere: "Thank you for spending today with me.Nl: Sorry dat ik niet helemaal eerlijk was over hoe ik me voelde."En: Sorry that I wasn't completely honest about how I was feeling."Nl: Sanne glimlachte naar hem, haar ogen glinsterend van begrip.En: Sanne smiled at him, her eyes glistening with understanding.Nl: "Je hoeft niets te verbergen voor mij, Bram.En: "You don't have to hide anything from me, Bram.Nl: Ik vind je leuk om wie je bent, niet om wat je doet."En: I like you for who you are, not for what you do."Nl: Marieke keek tevreden toe hoe haar broer zijn les had geleerd - eerlijkheid en zorg voor jezelf waren belangrijk.En: Marieke watched on with satisfaction as her brother learned his lesson - honesty and taking care of yourself were important.Nl: En Sanne had ingezien dat ware charme niet in indrukwekkende trucs zit, maar in oprechte connecties.En: And Sanne realized that true charm doesn't lie in impressive tricks, but in genuine connections.Nl: Die nacht, onder de lichtjes van de reusachtige kerstboom, was het hun gelach dat de winterlucht vulde.En: That night, under the lights of the gigantic Christmas tree, it was their laughter that filled the winter air.Nl: De kerstgeest lag niet in de perfectie, maar in de eenvoudige warmte van verbintenis.En: The Christmas spirit wasn't in perfection, but in the simple warmth of connection.Nl: Het was een kerst om nooit te vergeten.En: It was a Christmas to never forget. Vocabulary Words:shimmering: glinsterendebustling: drukkeice rink: ijsbaannervously: zenuwachtigdrifted: dwarreldencrisp: frissedizziness: duizeligheidwhispered: fluisterdedetermine: vastberadenbutterflies: vlindersattempted: probeerdedaring: gedurfdespin: draaionlookers: omstandersscrambled: krabbeldepounding: begenbonefever: koortspaleness: bleekheidreluctantly: met tegenzindesire: verlangennecessity: noodzaaktingle: tintelensincere: eerlijkglistening: glinsterendlesson: lesgenuine: oprechtecharm: charmegigantic: reusachtigeperfection: perfectieconnection: verbintenis

Experience the shores of Lake Michigan with Randy, Caly, and Hillery McAlpine, Marketing and Communications Director, as they explore windmills, breweries, beaches, and other top things to do in a city steeped in Dutch heritage—Holland, Michigan.Get 30% off any RV Destinations Magazine subscription! Visit RVD https://RVDestinationsMagazine.com and use code XMAS30 at checkout to start exploring smarter.Hit the road and save! Book your stay at Love's RV Stop now and get 10% off with code DESTINATIONS10.0CHAPTERS04:44 Love's RV Stop05:34 Windmill Island10:36 Breweries12:53 Food scene15:25 RV Destinations Holiday Deal16:11 Downtown Holland18:40 Tulip Time21:53 Biking23:21 Beaches25:59 Holland Snowmelt System29:10 Recommended Campgrounds 

In the fog-shrouded streets of 1880s Leiden, a woman everyone called "Good Mary" brought food to the sick, consoled the grieving, and prepared the dead for burial. For three years, she was the angel of her neighborhood—the trusted caregiver who helped when no one else would. No one suspected that the porridge she served was laced with arsenic. No one questioned why so many of her patients died. Until a doctor noticed somethingMaria Swanenburg's victims included 27 confirmed deaths among the most vulnerable members of Victorian Leiden's working-class community. Among them were her own parents—Johanna Dingjan and Clemens Swanenburg—murdered for whatever meager inheritance they might leave. Two young sisters died while Maria babysat them, followed by attempted poisonings of six mourners at their wake, including their pregnant mother.The Frankhuizen family lost three members: Maria Frankhuizen, her infant son, and her husband Hendrik, whose agonizing final days would ultimately expose the killer. Elderly neighbors who trusted Maria with their care, relatives who welcomed her help, and community members who saw her as Goeie Mie—"Good Mary"—all fell victim to her arsenic-laced kindness. Another 45 survivors lived with permanent health damage, many walking Leiden's streets on crutches for the rest of their lives.Between 1880 and 1883, Maria Swanenburg systematically poisoned at least 102 people in Leiden, Netherlands, killing 27 and permanently disabling dozens more. Operating in disease-ridden working-class neighborhoods where cholera deaths were common, she exploited the era's limited medical knowledge and the community's trust in her caregiving reputation.Maria purchased arsenic from multiple pharmacies across Leiden—ostensibly for pest control—accumulating lethal quantities without raising suspicion. She poisoned her victims through food and drink while nursing them, then collected on small life insurance policies she'd secretly taken out. When victims displayed symptoms of violent gastric distress, doctors assumed cholera or typhoid. When they died, Maria helped prepare their bodies for burial and consoled grieving families.Her downfall came in December 1883 when Dr. Wijnand Rutgers van der Loeff connected multiple patients with identical symptoms to one common factor: all had been under Maria Swanenburg's care.The Investigation: Dr. van der Loeff's suspicions led police to arrest Maria on December 15, 1883. When searched, she carried multiple insurance policies in her pockets—policies taken out on people currently under her care. Authorities exhumed thirteen bodies from Leiden cemeteries; all tested positive for arsenic.The Trial: Proceedings began April 23, 1885, drawing national attention. Medical experts explained how arsenic accumulated in victims' tissues. Family members testified about their loved ones' rapid deterioration under Maria's care. Throughout, she maintained an eerily calm demeanor, claiming she was being framed.The Verdict: On May 1, 1885, Maria Swanenburg was convicted of three murders from the Frankhuizen family case—though prosecutors had evidence for 27 deaths. She became the first woman in Dutch history to receive a life sentence.The Sentence: Maria was sent to Gorinchem Correctional Facility, where she died on April 11, 1915, at age 75, having served thirty years.Victorian Leiden provided the perfect hunting ground for a poisoner. The textile industry had drawn workers into overcrowded slums where families of ten lived in cramped cottages with earthen floors, no sanitation, and no ventilation. Cholera, typhoid, and tuberculosis killed regularly. Child mortality was staggeringly high. Doctors rarely visited poor districts because residents couldn't pay.In this environment, additional deaths barely registered. Arsenic was legally sold in pharmacies for pest control with minimal regulation—no questions asked, no records kept. The poison was tasteless, odorless, and produced symptoms indistinguishable from endemic diseases without expensive chemical analysis that the poor could never afford.Maria's role as a community caregiver—taking in elderly boarders, nursing the sick, preparing bodies for burial—gave her unlimited access to vulnerable victims and made suspicion seem impossible. She was Goeie Mie. Good Mary. The angel.Primary research for this episode draws from Dutch criminal archives and the work of historian Stefan Glasbergen, whose book on Maria Swanenburg provides crucial contemporary documentation including court testimony and neighborhood accounts.The case fundamentally changed Dutch law. Following Maria's conviction, the Netherlands implemented strict regulations on arsenic sales, requiring pharmacies to maintain detailed purchase records and verify legitimate need. Dutch law enforcement developed standardized protocols for investigating suspicious deaths and recognizing serial murder patterns.The Swanenburg case became a cornerstone study in criminal investigation training throughout Europe, demonstrating how serial killers exploit community trust and institutional blind spots to operate undetected for years.For those interested in exploring this case further:The Rijksmuseum van Oudheden in Leiden maintains records from the Victorian eraDutch National Archives hold original court documents from the 1885 trialAcademic studies on Victorian-era poisoning cases and forensic toxicology developmentMaria Swanenburg's victims trusted her completely. She was their neighbor, their caregiver, their friend. In the fog-shrouded slums of Victorian Leiden, the angel of the neighborhood was actually its deadliest predator—and the 45 survivors on crutches walked as permanent reminders of her betrayal.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Standard blood work might tell you everything looks “normal,” while your hormones are actually in post-menopausal free fall. In this episode, I'll walk you through my wife Sage's hormone test results on the whiteboard, exposing the hormonal ratios blood tests miss, estradiol being 100x more potent than other estrogens, and why hormone therapy is the only approach that actually works. This episode is essential viewing for couples navigating the hormonal minefield together, complete with the exact protocols that brought Sage back to herself.  CLICK HERE TO BECOME GARYS VIP!: https://bit.ly/4ai0Xwg See Sage's Exact Lab Panel for Precision Health: https://bit.ly/3L1kE3m  Get Tested with the 10x Female Blood Hormone Panel: https://bit.ly/48TL66N  Connect with Sage Workinger-Brecka Instagram: https://bit.ly/44sN390 Thank you to our partners H2TABS: “ULTIMATE10” FOR 10% OFF: https://bit.ly/4hMNdgg BODYHEALTH: “ULTIMATE20” FOR 20% OFF: http://bit.ly/4e5IjsV BAJA GOLD: "ULTIMATE10" FOR 10% OFF: https://bit.ly/3WSBqUa COLD LIFE: THE ULTIMATE HUMAN PLUNGE: https://bit.ly/4eULUKp WHOOP: JOIN AND GET 1 FREE MONTH!: https://bit.ly/3VQ0nzW AION: “ULTIMATE10” FOR 10% OFF: https://bit.ly/4h6KHAD A-GAME: “ULTIMATE15” FOR 15% OFF: http://bit.ly/4kek1ij PEPTUAL: “TUH10” FOR 10% OFF: https://bit.ly/4mKxgcn CARAWAY: “ULTIMATE” FOR 10% OFF: https://bit.ly/3Q1VmkC HEALF: 10% OFF YOUR ORDER: https://bit.ly/41HJg6S RHO NUTRITION: “ULTIMATE15” FOR 15% OFF: https://bit.ly/44fFza0 GOPUFF: GET YOUR FAVORITE SNACK!: https://bit.ly/4obIFDC GENETIC METHYLATION TEST (UK ONLY): https://bit.ly/48QJJrk GENETIC TEST (USA ONLY): ⁠https://bit.ly/3Yg1Uk9 Watch  the “Ultimate Human Podcast” every Tuesday & Thursday at 9AM EST: YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPQYX8 Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3RQftU0 Connect with Gary Brecka Instagram: https://bit.ly/3RPpnFs TikTok: https://bit.ly/4coJ8fo X: https://bit.ly/3Opc8tf Facebook: https://bit.ly/464VA1H LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4hH7Ri2 Website: https://bit.ly/4eLDbdU Merch: https://bit.ly/4aBpOM1 Newsletter: https://bit.ly/47ejrws Ask Gary: https://bit.ly/3PEAJuG Timestamps 00:00 Intro of Show 02:11 Sage and Gary's Menopausal Journey 05:16 Effects of Menopause (Frozen Shoulder, Brain Fog, Exhaustion) 12:31 Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy 19:18 Results of Sage's Dutch and Wellness Tests 23:58 Link of Catecholamines and Anxiety 27:37 Sage's Dutch Test Results in Visual 43:42 Debunking of the Hormone Therapy and Breast Cancer Connection Study: https://bit.ly/4quZqdt 51:17 Effects after the Hormone Therapy 54:05 Timing of Hormones: https://bit.ly/48UF9Xw 57:49 Other Recommendations from Sage's Health Journey 1:07:15 Connect with Sage 1:08:03 What does it mean to you to be an Ultimate Human? The Ultimate Human with Gary Brecka Podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The Content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Functional dentistry is emerging as a powerful missing link in systems-based care. In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with Staci Whitman, DMD, IFMCP, a leading voice in functional pediatric dentistry and co-founder of the upcoming Institute for Functional Dentistry. Together, they explore how the oral microbiome, airway health, saliva, hormones, nutrition, and stress physiology shape systemic inflammation, chronic disease risk, and long-term health outcomes. You'll learn how to recognize oral contributors to gut issues, autoimmunity, cardiometabolic disease, cognitive decline, sleep disorders, and more—plus practical tools you can use right away in a medical setting, including a simple five-question airway and breathing screener. If you're looking to expand your longevity and whole-body health framework, this conversation offers clear, actionable insights you won't want to miss. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ GUEST DETAILS Dr. Staci Whitman is a board-certified pediatric and functional dentist and co-founder of the Institute for Functional Dentistry (IFD). She integrates the oral microbiome, airway and sleep health, nutrition, hormones, and early childhood development into modern dental care. She also founded Bloom Kids Dentistry and has an upcoming book on the oral microbiome. Website: http://doctorstaci.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS DIAMOND DUTCH: https://dutchtest.com/for-providers Biotics Research: https://bit.ly/2IHK6Xd GOLD TimeLine Nutrition: https://tinyurl.com/bdzx2xms Vibrant Wellness: https://www.vibrant-wellness.com/ EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FROM OUR SPONSORS OneSkin: Get 15% off OneSkin with the code DRKARA at http://oneskin.co/DRKARA Find out why MitoQ's mitochondria-targeting is a critical step for your healthspan and longevity strategy. http://mitoq.com/drkara *CONNECT with DrKF* Want more? Join our newsletter here: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/newsletter/ Or take our pop quiz and test your BioAge! https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/bioagequiz YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/hjpc8daz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkarafitzgerald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrKaraFitzgerald/ DrKF Clinic: Patient consults with DrKF physicians including Younger You Concierge: https://tinyurl.com/yx4fjhkb Younger You Practitioner Training Program: www.drkarafitzgerald.com/trainingyyi/ Younger You book: https://tinyurl.com/mr4d9tym Better Broths and Healing Tonics book: https://tinyurl.com/3644mrfw

Ireland controls seven times more sea than land, and with the Atlantic blowing 25% stronger winds than the North Sea, we sit on one of the greatest untapped energy jackpots on Earth. This episode dives into the staggering 600 gigawatt potential of offshore wind off Ireland's coast, enough to power every home and factory in the EU, several times over. So why haven't we built a new offshore wind farm in 20 years? From floating turbines to fiscal unions, Dutch perpetual bonds to data centres in the Burren, we break down how wind could be Ireland's next IDA moment, if we can overcome our engineering phobia and stop thinking like a museum. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Summary This coming February, Getting Unstuck—Cultivating Curiosity will start its eighth year. My goal with this podcast is to host guests who will make us think, "I didn't know anything about that," or "That's something I hadn't considered," or "I might be able to apply that to some aspect of my life." In each case, "that" refers to the topic being discussed. And the topics will vary widely. Unlike other shows that focus on a single topic, such as politics, entertainment, or leadership, Getting Untuck's focus is eclectic. This year, I offered episodes about how to inspire student curiosity, the healing powers of fly fishing, writing, the Holocaust and World War II, marketing, and a score of other topics. Getting Unstuck—Cultivating Curiosity continues to rank in the top 3 percent of all podcasts globally, where just over 4 million options are vying for your ears' attention. We just published our 392nd episode, which is notable given that most podcasts don't reach ten episodes. I say "we" because a special thanks goes to my engineer, Neil Hughes. He manages all the back-end publishing logistics and makes every episode sound professional. He also welcomes me to pull up a virtual chair for periodic emotional therapy when needed. To say I would be lost without him doesn't begin to do his services justice. As we approach the end of the year, I want to thank you, my listeners. I wouldn't be able to continue doing this show without your interest and support. Thank you.   I'm going to recap 2025 in three parts: Part One: The three episodes that you listened to the most. Part Two: The one episode that was particularly special to me. Part Three: The three most popular backlist episodes. Part One: The three episodes that you listened to the most. (In no particular order.) 1. Episode 344 - "Earthrise"—What Apollo 8 Should Have Taught Us This episode reflects on the Apollo 8 mission's iconic "Earthrise" image in late December 1968 and the turbulent year that preceded it. It highlights enduring lessons on inequality, collective problem-solving, and environmental stewardship. The episode urges renewed respect for history and a commitment to addressing modern challenges with the same ingenuity that defined the space race. This episode's popularity doesn't surprise me, so I'm going to devote next week's episode to replaying it. 2. Episode 348 - Breaking Barriers: Men, Vulnerability and Emotional Growth In this episode, I talked with Bob Reece, a mental health counselor and fly fishing guide, about his work addressing the mental health of men and at-risk teens. We discussed overcoming societal stigmas around vulnerability, providing men with tools to manage emotions, and the transformative impact of connecting with nature through fly fishing to improve relationships and professional lives. Bob emphasized the need to normalize vulnerability among men, challenging traditional notions of masculinity and fostering healthier emotional expression. This episode's popularity did not surprise me, given what I've read about the crisis single white men are experiencing. 3. Episode 369 - From Heart Attack to Health: A Plant-based Transformation In this episode, I talked with Byron Edgington, a Vietnam Veteran and commercial helicopter pilot. Byron shared his journey to a whole food, plant-based diet after a heart attack. He and his wife experienced dramatic health improvements almost immediately, including weight loss and the elimination of prescription medications. Our conversation expanded to explore the environmental impact of meat production, animal cruelty in factory farming, and how food choices can shape personal health and global sustainability. Two other episodes deserve mention. Episode 345 - Living with Purpose—Eastern and Western Insights Into Habits and Growth In this episode, Dr. Tamsin Astor, an author and habit scientist, discussed her approach to habit formation and the integration of Western and Eastern philosophies to promote wellness. Episode 363 - Decoding LinkedIn–Optimizing Your Digital First Impression The popularity of this episode should surprise no one. Here, "LinkedIn Profiler" Tony K. Silver shared LinkedIn optimization strategies focused on capturing attention quickly, using strategic keywords, and creating high-quality, engaging content with clear calls to action for professional success.   Part Two: The one episode that was particularly special to me. Episode 368 - What We Make of Them After participating in New York City's "No Kings" march last spring, I reflected in this episode on the urgency of defending democracy, drawing parallels between the current political climate and that of 1930s Germany. When the march ended, I slipped into a bookstore to warm up and dry off. There I found Remember Us by Robert M. Edsell. The title of the book comes from a moving poem by Archibald MacLeish: "The Young Dead Soldiers Do Not Speak." A few stanzas carry the meaning. Nevertheless they are heard in the still houses: Who has not heard them? They say, Our deaths are not ours; they are yours: They will mean what you make of them They say, Whether our lives and our deaths were for peace And a new hope or for nothing we cannot say: it is you who must say this. We were young, they say. We have died. Remember us. Two of the poem's lines moved me so much that I took the episode title from them. "Our deaths are not ours; they are yours: They will mean what you make of them Remember Us documents twelve lives connected to the American Military Cemetery near the small village of Margraten, Netherlands. Approximately 8,300 Americans who helped liberate the Netherlands from the Nazis and the grip of fascism during World War II are buried there. The cemetery is remarkable because Black American soldiers, who were generally restricted to non-combat support roles, dug the graves under horrific weather conditions. The cemetery is also notable because local Dutch citizens have adopted each grave and visit it weekly. This practice reflects the citizens' ongoing gratitude for the soldiers, affirming that they have heard the voices of the dead. Their visits ensure that the soldiers are always remembered for their sacrifice.   Part Three: The three most popular backlist episodes. (Titles that aired before 1/1/25.) 1. Episode 93 - Reclaiming Our Students I'm not surprised that this episode continues to track after almost five years. Based on their mega best-selling book, Reclaiming Our Students: Why Children Are More Anxious, Aggressive, and Shut Down Than Ever―And What We Can Do About It, authors Hannah Beach and Tamara Neufeld Strijack alerted us to what's going on with today's youth. I'm going to do a separate episode update in two weeks, but for our purpose here, two of the questions we discussed in the episode were Why are our kids in the position today of being more anxious, aggressive, and shut down than ever before? What has been the impact of children losing time for free play – and of entertainment becoming the substitute for free play? 2. Episode 316 - Fishing the Good Fight—Healing on the Stream for Men with Mental Health Issues Jim Flint is the Executive Director of "Fishing the Good Fight," an organization that uses fly-fishing retreats to help men navigate the complex intersection of masculinity and mental health. As a fly fisher, I was thrilled with the reception of this episode and with two other very popular episodes on the spiritual power of fly fishing Episode 315 - Susan Gaetz is the executive director for Casting for Recovery, a national nonprofit using the therapeutic sport of fly fishing to serve women with breast cancer. Episode 330 - Sylvia Huron is the co-founder and Executive Director of Reeling in Serenity, a non-profit that uses fly fishing to support addiction recovery through free retreats. 3. Episode 321 - You Have a Story to Tell—The Art of Memoir Writing This episode explores the art of memoir writing with author and teacher, Cindy House. Our conversation delved into the genre's rising popularity and its essential elements. Cindy emphasized curiosity as the foundation of writing and how memoir differs from autobiography by focusing on one or more specific aspects of one's life rather than a comprehensive account. Our conversation also covers the major elements of memoirs, including the importance of a central dramatic question, its supporting thematic framework, and the structure that holds everything together. Two other episodes deserve mention. Episode 88 - Leading in a Time of Crisis: Part 10 I conducted this interview with the then-Principal of the Baltimore Design School, Zaharah Valentine, in April 2020. The crisis, of course, was COVID-19, and Zarharah offered suggestions on how faculty could weather it. This episode has probably surged recently because educators are once again in crisis. Teachers and administrators are leaving the field due to burnout, low pay, lack of support, political pressures, and challenging student behaviors. Episode 324 - Cultivating Student Curiosity and Engagement in the Thinking Mathematics Classroom. This was one of my favorite episodes of the year. Dr. Peter Liljedahl is a Professor of Mathematics Education and has developed a unique way for students to learn math. Instead of sitting by themselves working out mind-numbing math problems, Dr. Liljedahl's method has students working in triads at whiteboards on real-world problems. Process and thinking, here, are as necessary as the answer.

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Snowy Nights and Startup Dreams: A Holiday Pitch to Success Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-16-23-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De sneeuw dwarrelde zachtjes neer op de straten van Amsterdam.En: The snow gently fell onto the streets of Amsterdam.Nl: De stad was versierd met fonkelende kerstlichtjes en er hing een warme geur van kaneel en dennennaalden in de lucht.En: The city was decorated with twinkling Christmas lights, and there was a warm scent of cinnamon and pine needles in the air.Nl: Midden in deze winterse sfeer bevond zich het Startup Incubatorgebouw, waar jonge ondernemers hard werkten aan hun dromen.En: Amidst this wintry atmosphere was the Startup Incubator building, where young entrepreneurs were hard at work on their dreams.Nl: Het was een plek vol met enthousiaste en gedreven mensen die hoopten op succes.En: It was a place full of enthusiastic and driven people hoping for success.Nl: Sven stond in een van de vergaderzalen, zijn handen trilden lichtjes.En: Sven stood in one of the meeting rooms, his hands trembling slightly.Nl: Het was een belangrijke dag voor hem.En: It was an important day for him.Nl: Hij zou zijn mobiele app presenteren aan een groep investeerders.En: He was going to present his mobile app to a group of investors.Nl: Het was zijn kans om de financiering binnen te halen die zijn startup zo hard nodig had.En: It was his chance to secure the funding his startup desperately needed.Nl: Hij wilde slagen voordat Kerstmis aanbrak, het perfecte cadeau voor zijn team en familie.En: He wanted to succeed before Christmas arrived, the perfect gift for his team and family.Nl: Aan de andere kant van de zaal zat Lotte met een geruststellende glimlach.En: On the other side of the room sat Lotte with a reassuring smile.Nl: Ze kende Sven al jaren en wist van de druk die op zijn schouders lag.En: She had known Sven for years and understood the pressure resting on his shoulders.Nl: Ze was zelf ook ondernemer, maar vandaag was zij hier om Sven te steunen.En: She was also an entrepreneur herself, but today she was there to support Sven.Nl: Toen het moment van zijn presentatie naderde, voelde Sven zijn hart sneller kloppen.En: As the moment of his presentation approached, Sven felt his heart beating faster.Nl: Terwijl hij begon te spreken, overviel een vlaag van paniek hem.En: As he began to speak, a wave of panic overwhelmed him.Nl: Zijn ademhaling werd oppervlakkig, en de ruimte leek plotseling kleiner.En: His breathing became shallow, and the room suddenly seemed smaller.Nl: De angst om te falen en zijn geliefden teleur te stellen overweldigde hem.En: The fear of failing and disappointing his loved ones engulfed him.Nl: Op dat moment stak Lotte haar hand op en glimlachte bemoedigend naar Sven.En: At that moment, Lotte raised her hand and smiled encouragingly at Sven.Nl: Zonder aarzeling stond ze op en begon met kalme zelfverzekerdheid te spreken.En: Without hesitation, she stood up and began to speak with calm confidence.Nl: "Dames en heren," zei ze, "laten we even pauzeren voor een kleine wijziging in de presentatie."En: "Ladies and gentlemen," she said, "let's pause for a slight change in the presentation."Nl: Haar charmante stijl trok de aandacht van de investeerders en gaf Sven tijd om tot rust te komen.En: Her charming style caught the investors' attention and gave Sven time to regain his composure.Nl: Buiten de zaal probeerde Sven zichzelf te kalmeren.En: Outside the room, Sven tried to calm himself.Nl: "Ik kan dit niet opgeven," fluisterde hij tegen zichzelf.En: "I can't give up," he whispered to himself.Nl: In gedachten zag hij het harde werk van zijn team en voelde hij hun vertrouwen.En: In his mind, he saw the hard work of his team and felt their trust.Nl: Hij ademde diep in en uit, en keerde terug naar de vergaderzaal.En: He took a deep breath and returned to the meeting room.Nl: Het was Lotte's signalering die Sven moed gaf.En: It was Lotte's signaling that gave Sven courage.Nl: Ze knikte hem bemoedigend toe.En: She nodded encouragingly at him.Nl: "Als je er klaar voor bent, zullen ze luisteren," zei haar blik.En: "When you're ready, they're going to listen," said her gaze.Nl: Met hernieuwde vastberadenheid hervatte Sven zijn presentatie.En: With renewed determination, Sven resumed his presentation.Nl: Hij sprak gepassioneerd over zijn app, zijn stem won aan kracht en overtuiging.En: He spoke passionately about his app, his voice gaining strength and conviction.Nl: Het was alsof de vreugdevolle kersttijd om de stad hen inspireerde.En: It was as if the joyful Christmas atmosphere around the city inspired them.Nl: De investeerders luisterden aandachtig en stelden vragen.En: The investors listened intently and asked questions.Nl: Sven beantwoorde elk van hen met zelfvertrouwen dat hij niet wist dat hij had.En: Sven answered each one with a confidence he didn't know he had.Nl: Na de presentatie stapten de investeerders op hem af.En: After the presentation, the investors approached him.Nl: Ze waren onder de indruk en wilden graag investeren.En: They were impressed and eager to invest.Nl: Sven kon zijn geluk niet geloven; zijn droom was binnen handbereik.En: Sven couldn't believe his luck; his dream was within reach.Nl: Lotte gaf hem een grote knuffel.En: Lotte gave him a big hug.Nl: "Je hebt het gedaan," zei ze.En: "You did it," she said.Nl: Die avond, terwijl de sneeuw bleef vallen, besefte Sven iets belangrijks.En: That evening, as the snow continued to fall, Sven realized something important.Nl: Hij realiseerde zich dat het omarmen van hulp en de steun van vrienden net zo belangrijk was als zijn eigen vastberadenheid.En: He realized that embracing help and the support of friends was just as crucial as his own determination.Nl: Samen hadden ze het onmogelijk ogende mogelijk gemaakt.En: Together, they had made what seemed impossible possible.Nl: En zo, op een koude maar betekenisvolle Amsterdamse winteravond, leerde Sven om niet alleen op zichzelf maar ook op zijn vrienden te vertrouwen.En: And so, on a cold but meaningful winter night in Amsterdam, Sven learned to rely not only on himself but also on his friends.Nl: Het was het beste kerstgeschenk dat hij zich kon wensen.En: It was the best Christmas gift he could have wished for. Vocabulary Words:gently: zachtjestwinkling: fonkelendecinnamon: kaneelpine needles: dennennaaldenatmosphere: sfeerincubator: incubatortrembling: trildendesperately: hard nodigreluctantly: met tegenzinreassuring: geruststellendepressure: drukapproached: naderdeoverwhelmed: overweldigdehesitation: aarzelingcomposure: rustencouragingly: bemoedigendconviction: overtuigingrenewed: hernieuwdeintently: aandachtigembracing: omarmencrucial: belangrijkdetermination: vastberadenheidimpressed: onder de indrukeager: graagmeaningful: betekenisvolleuncommon: onmogelijk ogendenthusiastic: enthousiastecharming: charmanteresumed: hervattepassionately: gepassioneerd

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Snowflakes and Startups: An App-Raising Christmas Encounter Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-16-08-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De eerste sneeuwvlokken dwarrelden neer op de stad terwijl het startup incubatorgebouw zich vulde met enthousiaste stemmen en glinsterende kerstdecoraties.En: The first snowflakes gently fell on the city as the startup incubator building filled with enthusiastic voices and glistening Christmas decorations.Nl: Binnen was het warm en uitnodigend, met lange tafels vol laptops en ondernemers die probeerden hun dromen te realiseren.En: Inside, it was warm and inviting, with long tables full of laptops and entrepreneurs trying to realize their dreams.Nl: Sven zat ietwat nerveus achter zijn laptop, zijn vingers rustend op het toetsenbord.En: Sven sat somewhat nervously behind his laptop, his fingers resting on the keyboard.Nl: Zijn app-idee, dat technologie toegankelijk maakte voor iedereen, was klaar voor de presentatie.En: His app idea, which made technology accessible to everyone, was ready for the presentation.Nl: Toch voelde hij een knoop in zijn maag.En: Still, he felt a knot in his stomach.Nl: Vorige samenwerkingen waren niet goed afgelopen, en hij twijfelde of hij anderen kon vertrouwen.En: Previous collaborations had not ended well, and he doubted whether he could trust others.Nl: Aan de andere kant van de zaal stond Merel.En: On the other side of the hall stood Merel.Nl: Ze was in gesprek met een groepje mensen.En: She was talking to a small group of people.Nl: Haar lach klonk helder en enthousiast.En: Her laugh was clear and enthusiastic.Nl: Ze had een neus voor beloftevolle projecten en zocht iets waar ze haar marketingvaardigheden in kon steken.En: She had a knack for promising projects and was looking for something to invest her marketing skills into.Nl: Toen ze Sven zag, voelde ze nieuwsgierigheid.En: When she saw Sven, she felt curiosity.Nl: Zijn rustige houding intrigeerde haar.En: His calm demeanor intrigued her.Nl: De presentaties begonnen, en één voor één stapten de deelnemers naar voren om hun ideeën te presenteren.En: The presentations began, and one by one, the participants stepped forward to present their ideas.Nl: Toen Sven aan de beurt was, was zijn stem in het begin wat onvast.En: When it was Sven's turn, his voice was a bit unsteady at first.Nl: Maar naarmate hij sprak over zijn visie, kreeg hij meer vertrouwen.En: But as he spoke about his vision, he gained more confidence.Nl: Hij legde uit hoe zijn app mensen zou helpen, en zijn passie werd duidelijk.En: He explained how his app would help people, and his passion became evident.Nl: Merel luisterde aandachtig.En: Merel listened attentively.Nl: Ze merkte dat zijn concept veel potentie had, maar ook dat hij moeite had om een publiek te boeien.En: She noticed that his concept had a lot of potential but also that he struggled to engage an audience.Nl: Het zou aan marketing niet ontbreken.En: It would not lack marketing.Nl: Na verloop van tijd stak ze haar hand op.En: Eventually, she raised her hand.Nl: “Hoe denkt u dat mensen deze app zullen ontdekken?” vroeg ze met een vriendelijke, maar doordringende blik.En: “How do you think people will discover this app?” she asked with a friendly but penetrating look.Nl: Sven aarzelde even.En: Sven hesitated for a moment.Nl: Hij wist dat marketing zijn zwakke punt was.En: He knew marketing was his weak point.Nl: “Ik hoop dat het product voor zichzelf zal spreken,” antwoordde hij uiteindelijk.En: “I hope the product will speak for itself,” he finally replied.Nl: Merel liep naar hem toe nadat de presentatie was afgelopen.En: Merel walked over to him after the presentation was over.Nl: "Je idee is geweldig," zei ze oprecht, "maar zonder een manier om het onder de aandacht te brengen, missen mensen misschien de kans om het te zien."En: "Your idea is great," she said sincerely, "but without a way to bring it to people's attention, they might miss the chance to see it."Nl: Sven keek Merel in de ogen en zag geen oordeel, maar oprechte interesse en steun.En: Sven looked Merel in the eyes and saw no judgment, but genuine interest and support.Nl: Hij wist dat ze gelijk had.En: He knew she was right.Nl: "Wil je me helpen?" vroeg hij, zijn traditionele aarzeling even terzijde schuivend.En: "Will you help me?" he asked, putting aside his usual hesitation for a moment.Nl: Ze glimlachte.En: She smiled.Nl: “Alleen als jij openstaat voor samenwerking.En: "Only if you're open to collaboration.Nl: Ik denk dat we iets moois kunnen maken.”En: I think we can create something beautiful."Nl: De dagen verstreken, en terwijl de kerstversiering in de straten steeds uitbundiger werd, begonnen Sven en Merel samen te werken.En: The days passed, and as the Christmas decorations in the streets became more exuberant, Sven and Merel began working together.Nl: Ze combineerden zijn technische kennis met haar creativiteit.En: They combined his technical knowledge with her creativity.Nl: Hun gezamenlijke inspanningen begonnen vruchten af te werpen, en de app kreeg vorm.En: Their joint efforts began to bear fruit, and the app took shape.Nl: Op een koude winteravond, tijdens een kerstborrel in de incubator, stonden ze samen: Sven minder geïntimideerd en Merel vol vertrouwen in hun gezamenlijke project.En: On a cold winter evening, during a Christmas party at the incubator, they stood together: Sven less intimidated and Merel full of confidence in their joint project.Nl: “In het nieuwe jaar gaan we investeerders zoeken,” zei Sven, nu vastberaden.En: “In the new year, we're going to look for investors,” said Sven, now determined.Nl: Merel knikte.En: Merel nodded.Nl: “En tot die tijd maken we er iets geweldigs van.”En: “And until then, we'll make something great out of it.”Nl: Het was het begin van een nieuwe samenwerking, en misschien wel meer.En: It was the beginning of a new partnership, and maybe even more.Nl: Sven en Merel hadden niet alleen een balans gevonden tussen hun vaardigheden, maar ook een nieuw begin met elkaar.En: Sven and Merel had not only found a balance between their skills but also a new beginning with each other. Vocabulary Words:snowflakes: sneeuwvlokkenstartup: startupincubator: incubatorenthusiastic: enthousiasteglistening: glinsterendeentrepreneurs: ondernemersnervously: nerveuscollaborations: samenwerkingentrust: vertrouwendemeanor: houdingintrigued: intrigeerdeattentively: aandachtigpotential: potentiestruggled: moeite hadpenetrating: doordringendehesitated: aarzeldegenuine: oprechteexuberant: uitbundigercreativity: creativiteitefforts: inspanningenintimidated: geïntimideerddetermined: vastberadeninvestors: investeerdersboerenkoel: exuberantstake: stekenjudgment: oordeelknack: neusinviting: uitnodigendresting: rustendknot: knoop

The fastest-growing brands treat customer insight like a strategy—not just a survey. In this week's episode of Growth Talks, CMO & Advisor, Matt Gehring joins host Tyler Elliston, founder and CEO of Right Side Up, to unpack what it takes to succeed in your first 90 days as a marketing leader. Drawing from his leadership roles at Dutch Pet, Everlane, and Rothy's, Matt shares how to map the customer journey, turn post-purchase insights into smart segmentation strategies, and use real-time data to drive repeat purchases. Find out why acting on customer insights early is key to refining your product, aligning your team, and making informed decisions before you scale.

Steven Bergwijn has always delivered decisive moments, but his recent transfer to Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League has sparked the biggest controversy of his career. This episode dives into the Dutch winger's dynamic playing style—his inverted runs, elite dribbling, and knack for goals (13 goals in 25 appearances this season). More importantly, we break down the explosive public fallout with Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman over "sporting ambition," which led to Bergwijn's dramatic exit from the national team. We explore the tension between a player's career choice and international expectations, and what Bergwijn's success outside Europe says about the future of global football. Steven Bergwijn, Al-Ittihad, Ronald Koeman, Saudi Pro League, Netherlands National Team, Tottenham Hotspur, Winger, Football Controversy, Dutch Football

Rutger Bregman is a Dutch historian, bestselling author, and the guy who went viral telling Davos billionaires to pay their taxes. This conversation is a salve for the crisis of meaning percolating through modern life. We explore Rutger's pragmatic antidote—moral ambition—and discuss why a quarter of workers believe their jobs are socially useless, what the abolitionists teach us about coalition-building, and why factory farming may be the ethical abomination future historians judge us for most harshly. Rutger's conviction is rare and infectious. By the end of our conversation, I was so inspired that I committed $25K to his organization's new US Food System Reform Program, a cause area that is deeply important to me. Final Note: Through December 31st, every dollar to moralambition.org/food is matched.  I hope you'll consider joining me today in making a donation to this impactful organization. See the links in our newsletter, on our website, and in our Substack. Let's lean into our own moral ambition and do something truly meaningful, together. Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today's Sponsors: On: High-performance shoes & apparel crafted for comfort and style

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In this episode of the Female Health Solution Podcast, I break down one of the biggest frustrations women face: Your labs come back "normal," yet you still feel exhausted, inflamed, moody, or nothing like yourself, and no one can explain why. Here's what we cover: Why basic blood work misses the real problem Regular labs look for disease, not dysfunction. A standard CBC or hormone panel can't show how your hormones are produced, processed, or eliminated. Blood tests catch crises, not the early warning signs of perimenopause, adrenal burnout, or estrogen dominance. What DUTCH urine hormone testing reveals that blood work can't All three estrogens: E1, E2, and E3 Phase 1 and Phase 2 estrogen detox (your liver pathways) Methylation which is a major cause of PMS, migraines, brain fog, and mood swings Cortisol rhythm throughout the day Nutrient deficiencies and gut-related patterns This level of detail finally explains why you feel off and what to do about it. Real client stories Sara's story: Blood labs said "you're fine." Her DUTCH test showed exactly why she had migraines, poor sleep, and terrible PMS. Within months on a targeted plan, PMS dropped by 50 percent and her menstrual migraines disappeared. At her follow-up, her clinic literally told her, "We don't know how to read this." Jenna's story: A mom of five determined not to be a "half version" of herself. She researched every option and realized she would have to piece together three times the number of tests to get what DUTCH shows in one report. Once she saw her results, she finally had a roadmap instead of guessing. Why your hormone issues are never just one thing Your genetics, stress load, pregnancies, environmental toxins, sleep, and nutrient status all intersect. DUTCH shows which pieces are breaking down: production, processing, or elimination, so you stop guessing and start targeting the right areas. Why DUTCH is the roadmap your health has been missing This test shows: Where the "holes in your boat" actually are Which systems need support What is driving your symptoms And exactly what to do next Instead of random supplements, you get clarity. Ready for real answers? If you're tired of hearing "your labs are normal" while your body tells a different story, it's time to go deeper. You can: Order a DUTCH test through us Get a personalized review and plan from my team Finally understand your hormone story and what your body has been trying to tell you Order your hormone test: https://drbethwestie.com/dutch-hormone-testing/

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Old Secrets and New Beginnings at Amsterdam's Kerstmarkt Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-15-08-38-19-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De kerstmarkt in Amsterdam was prachtig.En: The kerstmarkt in Amsterdam was beautiful.Nl: Belletjes en lichtjes glommen in de nacht.En: Bells and lights glowed in the night.Nl: Mensen liepen rond, ingepakt in dikke jassen en sjaals, terwijl de geur van glühwein en versgebakken lekkernijen de lucht vulde.En: People walked around, wrapped in thick coats and scarves, while the smell of glühwein and freshly baked treats filled the air.Nl: Sven stond bij een kraampje vol houten speelgoed.En: Sven stood at a stall full of wooden toys.Nl: Plots zag hij Jorien.En: Suddenly, he saw Jorien.Nl: Hij hapte naar adem.En: He gasped.Nl: Het was jaren geleden dat ze elkaar hadden gezien.En: It had been years since they had seen each other.Nl: Ze hadden dezelfde vriendengroep gehad toen ze jonger waren.En: They had shared the same group of friends when they were younger.Nl: Ze had hem niet gezien.En: She hadn't seen him.Nl: Een gevoel van schuld overspoelde hem.En: A feeling of guilt washed over him.Nl: Er was iets dat hij haar moest vertellen.En: There was something he had to tell her.Nl: Sven liep naar haar toe.En: Sven walked over to her.Nl: "Jorien?"En: "Jorien?"Nl: vroeg hij aarzelend.En: he asked hesitantly.Nl: Jorien keek op, verrast, maar met een warme glimlach.En: Jorien looked up, surprised, but with a warm smile.Nl: "Sven!En: "Sven!Nl: Wat leuk om je te zien!"En: How nice to see you!"Nl: Ze begonnen te praten.En: They began to talk.Nl: Ze lachten om herinneringen en dronken samen warme chocolademelk met slagroom.En: They laughed about old memories and drank hot chocolate with whipped cream together.Nl: Hoewel de sfeer vrolijk was, merkte Jorien op dat er iets bij Sven knaagde.En: Even though the atmosphere was cheerful, Jorien noticed that something was bothering Sven.Nl: "Sven, gaat alles goed?"En: "Sven, is everything okay?"Nl: vroeg ze.En: she asked.Nl: Haar stem was rustig, maar haar blik onderzoekend.En: Her voice was calm, but her gaze was probing.Nl: Sven aarzelde.En: Sven hesitated.Nl: Hij voelde de druk om eerlijk te zijn, om zijn fout van jaren geleden op te biechten.En: He felt the pressure to be honest, to confess his mistake from years ago.Nl: Iets wat invloed had gehad op hun vriendschappen in het verleden.En: Something that had affected their friendships in the past.Nl: "Er is iets dat ik moet zeggen," begon hij, zijn handen trilden licht.En: "There is something I need to say," he began, his hands trembling slightly.Nl: "Jaren geleden, toen we nog op school zaten, maakte ik een fout.En: "Years ago, when we were still in school, I made a mistake.Nl: Ik vertelde iets dat niet waar was en het heeft jou uiteindelijk pijn gedaan zonder dat je het wist."En: I said something that wasn't true, and it eventually hurt you without you knowing."Nl: Jorien staarde hem verbaasd aan.En: Jorien stared at him, astonished.Nl: Ze zei niets, luisterde alleen.En: She said nothing, only listened.Nl: Sven vertelde over het misverstand van vroeger en hoe hij zich altijd schuldig had gevoeld.En: Sven talked about the misunderstanding from the past and how he had always felt guilty about it.Nl: Zijn woorden sloegen in als een bom, maar in die kleine ruimte op de markt, met het geluid van kerstklokken om hen heen, voelde Jorien de oprechtheid in zijn stem.En: His words hit like a bomb, but in that small space at the market, with the sound of Christmas bells around them, Jorien felt the sincerity in his voice.Nl: Na een korte stilte zei Jorien langzaam, "Ik begrijp het nu.En: After a short silence, Jorien slowly said, "I understand now.Nl: Dat was een moeilijke tijd, maar ik voelde nooit wrok.En: That was a difficult time, but I never held a grudge.Nl: Bedankt dat je het vertelt."En: Thank you for telling me."Nl: Sven voelde opluchting.En: Sven felt relief.Nl: Als een last van zijn schouders was gevallen.En: As if a burden had been lifted from his shoulders.Nl: Hij wist nu hoe belangrijk eerlijkheid was.En: He now understood how important honesty was.Nl: Hun vriendschap was sterker geworden.En: Their friendship had become stronger.Nl: Jorien glimlachte en pakte zijn hand.En: Jorien smiled and took his hand.Nl: "We laten het verleden achter ons.En: "Let's leave the past behind us.Nl: Laten we iets drinken op nieuwe herinneringen."En: Let's toast to new memories."Nl: En onder de twinkelende lichtjes van de kerstmarkt, met de geur van dennen in de lucht, wisten Sven en Jorien dat hun vriendschap sterker was dan ooit tevoren in deze winterse Amsterdamse avond.En: And under the twinkling lights of the kerstmarkt, with the scent of pine in the air, Sven and Jorien knew their friendship was stronger than ever before on this wintry Amsterdam evening. Vocabulary Words:glowed: glommenwrapped: ingepakthesitantly: aarzelendprobed: onderzoekendconfess: opbiechtenmistake: foutgazed: staardesincerity: oprechtheidburden: lastrelief: opluchtingastonished: verbaasdtrembling: trildencheerful: vrolijkscarf: sjaaltreats: lekkernijenvoyeur: knaagdegrudge: wrokfilled: gevuldatmosphere: sfeermarket: markttwinkling: twinkelendepraise: proostensmiled: glimlachtetoys: speelgoedpine: dennenguilty: schuldigaffected: invloedwhisper: fluisterencomfort: troostunderstand: begrijp

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Bram's Winter Quest: Discovering Friendship's Hidden Treasure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-15-23-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: Het was een koude winteravond in Amsterdam.En: It was a cold winter evening in Amsterdam.Nl: De stad schitterde in het licht van Sinterklaas.En: The city glistened in the light of Sinterklaas.Nl: Bram, een jonge man vol nieuwsgierigheid naar oude verhalen, zat samen met zijn vrienden Sofie en Max in een rondvaartboot op de grachten.En: Bram, a young man filled with curiosity about old stories, sat with his friends Sofie and Max on a canal boat in the canals.Nl: De lucht was scherp en helder, de feestelijke lichtjes weerspiegelden in het donkere water.En: The air was sharp and clear, the festive lights reflecting in the dark water.Nl: Terwijl de boot onder de verlichte bruggen doorgleed, staarde Bram uit over het water.En: As the boat glided under the lit bridges, Bram stared out over the water.Nl: Plots viel zijn blik op iets vreemds naast zich op de bank.En: Suddenly, his eyes fell on something strange next to him on the bench.Nl: Het was een oud, vergeeld stuk papier.En: It was an old, yellowed piece of paper.Nl: Zijn hart klopte sneller terwijl hij het voorzichtig openvouwde.En: His heart beat faster as he carefully unfolded it.Nl: Het was een kaart, getekend in complexe lijnen en vreemde symbolen.En: It was a map, drawn with complex lines and strange symbols.Nl: Er stond een kruis ergens midden in het centrum van de stad.En: There was a cross somewhere in the center of the city.Nl: "Sofie, Max, kijk eens!"En: "Sofie, Max, look!"Nl: zei Bram enthousiast.En: said Bram excitedly.Nl: "Ik denk dat dit een schatkaart is!"En: "I think this is a treasure map!"Nl: Sofie lachte en schudde haar hoofd.En: Sofie laughed and shook her head.Nl: "Bram, het is vast een grap.En: "Bram, it's surely a joke.Nl: Het is Sinterklaas, iedereen is in de stemming voor verhalen."En: It's Sinterklaas, everyone is in the mood for stories."Nl: Max keek op van zijn glühwein.En: Max looked up from his glühwein.Nl: "Ja, kom op Bram, laten we genieten van de feestdagen."En: "Yeah, come on Bram, let's enjoy the holidays."Nl: Maar Bram was te gefascineerd om het op te geven.En: But Bram was too fascinated to give up.Nl: Ergens voelde hij dat dit zijn kans was op avontuur.En: Somewhere, he felt that this was his chance for adventure.Nl: Die nacht, terwijl Amsterdam in feeststemming verkeerde, besloot hij weg te sluipen om het mysterie van de kaart te ontrafelen.En: That night, while Amsterdam was in a festive mood, he decided to slip away to unravel the mystery of the map.Nl: De aanwijzingen op de kaart leidden Bram door de kronkelige straatjes van de stad, onder met sneeuw bedekte bomen door en langs de drukke wintermarkten.En: The clues on the map led Bram through the winding streets of the city, under snow-covered trees and past the busy winter markets.Nl: Elke stap bracht hem dichter bij een antwoord dat hij niet kende maar hoopte te vinden.En: Every step brought him closer to an answer he didn't know but hoped to find.Nl: Hij stond uiteindelijk stil voor een oude brug.En: He eventually stopped in front of an old bridge.Nl: Onder de brug vond hij een verroeste oude kist, precies zoals de kaart had aangegeven.En: Under the bridge, he found a rusty old chest, just as the map had indicated.Nl: Met enige moeite kreeg hij de sloten van de kist open.En: With some effort, he managed to open the locks of the chest.Nl: Binnenin vond hij geen goud en juwelen, maar een verzameling oude brieven en kleine voorwerpen.En: Inside, he found no gold and jewels, but a collection of old letters and small objects.Nl: Verward en gefascineerd begon hij de brieven te lezen.En: Confused and fascinated, he began to read the letters.Nl: Het waren de verhalen van vrienden, van gedeelde avonturen en ontdekkingen, achtergelaten door iemand lang geleden.En: They were stories of friends, of shared adventures and discoveries, left behind by someone long ago.Nl: Elk stuk papier sprak van de waarde van vriendschap en avontuur, meer waardevol dan enige schat.En: Each piece of paper spoke of the value of friendship and adventure, more valuable than any treasure.Nl: Bram stopte de brieven voorzichtig terug in de kist.En: Bram carefully put the letters back in the chest.Nl: Hij voelde zich vreemd tevreden.En: He felt strangely content.Nl: Het avontuur zelf en de verbinding die zijn ontdekkingen onthulden hadden hem een nieuw perspectief gegeven.En: The adventure itself and the connections his discoveries revealed had given him a new perspective.Nl: De ware schat was nooit materieel geweest maar lag in de reis en in de mensen om hem heen.En: The true treasure had never been material but lay in the journey and in the people around him.Nl: Met een glimlach keerde hij terug naar zijn vrienden.En: With a smile, he returned to his friends.Nl: De feestelijke muziek en het gelach omarmden hem als een warme deken.En: The festive music and laughter embraced him like a warm blanket.Nl: Sofie en Max stonden te wachten met warme chocolademelk.En: Sofie and Max were waiting with hot chocolate.Nl: "En?"En: "And?"Nl: vroeg Sofie nieuwsgierig.En: asked Sofie curiously.Nl: "Heb je je schat gevonden?"En: "Did you find your treasure?"Nl: Bram knikte met een zachte glimlach.En: Bram nodded with a soft smile.Nl: "Ja," zei hij.En: "Yes," he said.Nl: "Meer dan je je kunt voorstellen."En: "More than you can imagine."Nl: Het was Sinterklaasavond, en terwijl de stad verder vierde, wist Bram dat hij niet alleen een schat had gevonden, maar ook zichzelf een beetje beter had leren kennen, omgeven door vrienden en een wereld vol wonderen.En: It was Sinterklaas evening, and while the city continued to celebrate, Bram knew that he had not only found a treasure but had also learned a bit more about himself, surrounded by friends and a world full of wonders. Vocabulary Words:glistened: schitterdecuriosity: nieuwsgierigheidcanal: grachtlit: verlichtesharp: scherpglided: doorgleedstrange: vreemdbenches: bankenyellowed: vergeeldcomplex: complexsymbols: symbolenlaugh: lachtefascinated: gefascineerdunravel: ontrafelenwinding: kronkelingcovered: bedektrusty: verroestechest: kistlocks: slotenjewels: juwelenconfused: verwardadventures: avonturencontent: tevredenconnections: verbindingenperspective: perspectieftreasure: schatjourney: reislaughed: gelachblanket: dekenembraced: omarmden

Episode 1584: Felt Cute

 Are you "doing all the right things" — eating clean, working out, fasting, taking supplements — yet still feeling stuck, tired, or inflamed? In this series deep-dive solo episode, Coach Debbie Potts takes you down the Root Cause Rabbit Hole to uncover why "surface-level fixes" often fail and how to rebuild your metabolism, hormones, and energy from the inside out. You'll learn how to:

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Reimagining Christmas: A New Tradition at Home Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-14-23-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: Bastiaan keek peinzend naar de dichte poorten van de Keukenhof.En: Bastiaan looked thoughtfully at the closed gates of Keukenhof.Nl: De winterlucht was fris en helder, en er hing een lichte geur van dennen rondom.En: The winter air was fresh and clear, and there was a light scent of pine all around.Nl: Het was een rustige dag; de bezoekers waren verdwenen en alleen Bastiaan en zijn zus, Evi, liepen rond.En: It was a quiet day; the visitors were gone and only Bastiaan and his sister, Evi, were walking around.Nl: Elk jaar ging hun familie naar deze prachtige tuinen met Kerst, ook al bloeiden er in de winter geen tulpen.En: Every year their family went to these beautiful gardens at Christmas, even though there were no tulips blooming in winter.Nl: "Wat nu?"En: "What now?"Nl: mompelde Bastiaan, terwijl hij zijn sjaal strakker om zijn nek sloeg.En: muttered Bastiaan, as he wrapped his scarf more tightly around his neck.Nl: "De traditie kan zo niet doorgaan."En: "The tradition can't go on like this."Nl: Evi, altijd optimistisch, draaide zich enthousiast naar haar broer om.En: Evi, always optimistic, turned excitedly to her brother.Nl: "Laten we onze eigen Keukenhof thuis maken!"En: "Let's create our own Keukenhof at home!"Nl: stelde ze voor.En: she suggested.Nl: Haar ogen glinsterden van opwinding.En: Her eyes sparkled with excitement.Nl: Bastiaan fronste even, maar hij kende zijn zus.En: Bastiaan frowned for a moment, but he knew his sister.Nl: Als iemand een manier kon vinden om iets moois te maken van het gewone, dan was zij het wel.En: If anyone could find a way to make something beautiful out of the ordinary, it was her.Nl: Ondertussen liepen ze langs het hek.En: Meanwhile, they walked along the fence.Nl: Overal om hen heen waren de bomen kaal, de vijvers stil.En: All around them the trees were bare, the ponds still.Nl: Maar Evi zag mogelijkheden.En: But Evi saw possibilities.Nl: "We kunnen bloemen kopen.En: "We can buy flowers.Nl: Kerstlichtjes ophangen.En: Hang Christmas lights.Nl: Het wordt fantastisch!"En: It will be fantastic!"Nl: Terwijl ze terug naar huis liepen, begon Bastiaan zich langzaam open te stellen voor het idee.En: As they walked back home, Bastiaan slowly began to open up to the idea.Nl: De warmte van afgelopen kerstverhalen vervulde zijn gedachten.En: The warmth of past Christmas stories filled his thoughts.Nl: Misschien moest hij de traditie niet letterlijk nemen, maar de geest ervan.En: Maybe he didn't need to take the tradition literally, but embrace the spirit of it.Nl: Thuis aangekomen maakten ze zich aan het werk.En: Once home, they got to work.Nl: Evi kocht allerlei bloemen en rozen op de lokale markt.En: Evi bought all sorts of flowers and roses at the local market.Nl: Bastiaan hing kerstlichtjes op en maakte warme chocolademelk.En: Bastiaan hung Christmas lights and made hot chocolate.Nl: De woonkamer veranderde langzaam in hun eigen winterparadijs.En: The living room slowly transformed into their own winter paradise.Nl: Met muziek op de achtergrond en een knisperend vuur in de haard, glimlachte Bastiaan.En: With music in the background and a crackling fire in the fireplace, Bastiaan smiled.Nl: Hij voelde de vertrouwde warmte van het kerstseizoen, maar op een manier die hij nooit had verwacht.En: He felt the familiar warmth of the Christmas season, but in a way he had never expected.Nl: "Bastiaan," zei Evi zacht, terwijl ze keek naar hun creatie, "soms is verandering goed."En: "Bastiaan," said Evi softly, as she looked at their creation, "sometimes change is good."Nl: Hij keek naar zijn zus en knikte.En: He looked at his sister and nodded.Nl: "Ja, dat heb je me geleerd."En: "Yes, that's what you've taught me."Nl: In dat moment begreep Bastiaan dat het niet de plek zelf was, maar de herinneringen en de mensen die het speciaal maakten.En: In that moment, Bastiaan understood that it wasn't the place itself, but the memories and the people that made it special.Nl: Tradities konden veranderen, en dat was prima.En: Traditions could change, and that was fine.Nl: Samen hadden ze iets nieuws gecreëerd, en hun thuis was warm van vreugde en liefde.En: Together they had created something new, and their home was warm with joy and love.Nl: En zo vond Bastiaan vreugde in de nieuwigheid, en besefte dat tradities meer over gevoelens dan over plaatsen gingen – een kerst om nooit te vergeten.En: And so Bastiaan found joy in the novelty, realizing that traditions were more about feelings than places—a Christmas never to be forgotten. Vocabulary Words:thoughtfully: peinzendgates: poortenscent: geurpine: dennenmuttered: mompeldewrapped: sloegoptimistic: optimistischfrowned: fronstepossibilities: mogelijkhedenembrace: omarmenspirit: geesttransformed: veranderdecrackling: knisperendfireplace: haardcreation: creatiechange: veranderingnodded: kniktememories: herinneringennovelty: nieuwigheidrealizing: beseffenfris: freshhelder: cleardichte: closedruikten: bloemenenthousiast: excitedlyglinsterden: sparkledgedachten: thoughtsvertrouwde: familiarvreugde: joynooit: never

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: A Winter Quest: Discovering Magic and Friendship in Keukenhof Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-14-08-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De lucht was ijzig blauw, en de geur van verse sneeuw hing in de lucht boven Keukenhof Gardens.En: The sky was icy blue, and the scent of fresh snow hung in the air above Keukenhof Gardens.Nl: De winter had het park getransformeerd in een magische wonderland.En: Winter had transformed the park into a magical wonderland.Nl: Sprookjesachtige lichtjes fonkelden langs de paden, en delicate ijssculpturen stonden trots naast de kale bomen.En: Fairy-tale lights twinkled along the paths, and delicate ice sculptures stood proudly next to the bare trees.Nl: Het was kerstavond, en overal klonk zachtjes klassieke kerstmuziek.En: It was Christmas Eve, and soft classical Christmas music played everywhere.Nl: Sanne liep door het park, diep in gedachten verzonken.En: Sanne walked through the park, deep in thought.Nl: Ze droeg een dikke, wollen muts en een warme sjaal om zich tegen de kou te beschermen.En: She wore a thick, woolen hat and a warm scarf to protect herself against the cold.Nl: Als gepassioneerde tuinier was ze op zoek naar de mysterieuze wintertulp.En: As a passionate gardener, she was searching for the mysterious winter tulip.Nl: Volgens geruchten werd deze zeldzame bloem ergens in het park tentoongesteld, maar de precieze locatie bleef geheim.En: Rumor had it that this rare flower was on display somewhere in the park, but the exact location remained a secret.Nl: Niet ver bij haar vandaan was Bram, met zijn camera paraat.En: Not far from her was Bram, with his camera at the ready.Nl: Hij was op zoek naar het perfecte winterplaatje voor zijn portfolio.En: He was looking for the perfect winter shot for his portfolio.Nl: De ijsachtige schoonheid van het winterfestival had hem al meerdere mooie foto's opgeleverd, maar hij wilde iets bijzonders vangen, een moment dat de magie van de kerst zou vastleggen.En: The icy beauty of the winter festival had already provided him with several beautiful photos, but he wanted to capture something special, a moment that would encapsulate the magic of Christmas.Nl: Sanne en Bram ontmoetten elkaar bij een bedekt pad, hun paden kruisten elkaar als door een wonder.En: Sanne and Bram met on a covered path, their paths crossing as if by wonder.Nl: Sanne keek naar Bram, zijn camera stevig in zijn handen, en besloot dat ze wel wat hulp kon gebruiken.En: Sanne looked at Bram, his camera held firmly in his hands, and decided she could use some help.Nl: Bram, op zoek naar iets meer dan alleen een mooie foto, zag de vastberadenblik in Sanne's ogen en legde zijn spullen neer.En: Bram, looking for something more than just a beautiful photo, saw the determined look in Sanne's eyes and set down his gear.Nl: "Samen kunnen we die tulp vinden," stelde Sanne voor met een glimlach.En: "Together, we can find that tulip," Sanne suggested with a smile.Nl: "Jij bent goed met het ontdekken van mooie plekken, en ik kan je vertellen wanneer we hem hebben gevonden."En: "You're good at discovering beautiful places, and I can tell you when we've found it."Nl: Bram knikte.En: Bram nodded.Nl: "Laten we het proberen.En: "Let's give it a try.Nl: En misschien kunnen we iets vinden wat zelfs nog meer de moeite waard is."En: And maybe we can find something even more worthwhile."Nl: Ze liepen samen verder, hun adem als wolkjes in de koude lucht.En: They continued walking together, their breath forming little clouds in the cold air.Nl: De tijd tikte door, en de zon zakte langzaam lager, de dag was bijna voorbij.En: Time ticked by, and the sun sank slowly lower, the day was nearly over.Nl: Maar net toen ze dachten dat de zonsondergang hen te snel af zou zijn, werd hun geduld beloond.En: But just when they thought the sunset would beat them, their patience was rewarded.Nl: In een afgelegen open plek, omgeven door met rijp bedekte bomen, bloeide de wintertulp fier op de bevroren grond.En: In a secluded clearing, surrounded by frost-covered trees, the winter tulip bloomed proudly on the frozen ground.Nl: De bloem was prachtig met zijn rijke kleuren die fel afstaken tegen het witte sneeuwdek.En: The flower was stunning with its rich colors standing starkly against the white snow cover.Nl: Sanne's ogen straalden van vreugde en Bram maakte snel een aantal foto's.En: Sanne's eyes shone with joy, and Bram quickly took several photos.Nl: De foto's legden niet alleen de zeldzame schoonheid van de bloem vast, maar ook de warme glans in Sanne's glimlach.En: The photos captured not only the rare beauty of the flower but also the warm glow in Sanne's smile.Nl: De hemel begon te sneeuwen, kleine vlokken dwarrelden omlaag terwijl de schemering inviel.En: The sky began to snow, little flakes drifting down as twilight fell.Nl: Ze brak de stilte met een tevreden zucht.En: She broke the silence with a contented sigh.Nl: De lichten rondom hen flikkerden aan, verlichte kerstversieringen glommen vrolijk.En: The lights around them flickered on, illuminated Christmas decorations gleaming cheerfully.Nl: Met hun gloved handen samengevouwen om een mok verrukkelijke warme chocolademelk, zaten ze op een bankje en keken naar de fonkelende kerstlampjes.En: With their gloved hands wrapped around a mug of delightful hot chocolate, they sat on a bench and watched the twinkling Christmas lights.Nl: Samen beseften ze dat deze zoektocht hen niet alleen de perfecte foto en de perfecte bloem had gebracht, maar ook een onverwachte vriendschap.En: Together, they realized that this quest had brought them not only the perfect photo and the perfect flower but also an unexpected friendship.Nl: Sanne realiseerde zich dat niet alleen haar zoektocht naar kennis belangrijk was, maar ook de mensen die ze op haar pad ontmoette.En: Sanne realized that not only her quest for knowledge was important but also the people she met along the way.Nl: Bram ontdekte de voldoening van een verhaal dat verder ging dan alleen een beeld.En: Bram discovered the satisfaction of a story that went beyond just an image.Nl: Terwijl de laatste lichtjes aangingen, wisten ze dat dit kerstfeest een bijzondere herinnering werd, een herinnering aan vriendschap en onverwachte ontdekkingen.En: As the last lights came on, they knew that this Christmas celebration became a special memory, a memory of friendship and unexpected discoveries. Vocabulary Words:icy: ijzigtransformed: getransformeerdmagical: magischewonderland: wonderlandfairy-tale: sprookjesachtigetwinkled: fonkeldendelicate: delicatesculptures: ijssculpturenpaths: padenpassionate: gepassioneerdegardener: tuinierrare: zeldzamerumor: geruchtenmysterious: mysterieuzesecret: geheimportfolio: portfolioencapsulate: vastleggendetermined: vastberadenbliksecluded: afgelegenclearing: open plekbloomed: bloeidefrost-covered: met rijp bedekteglow: glanstwilight: schemeringcontented: tevredenflickered: flikkerdendelightful: verrukkelijkefriendship: vriendschaprealization: realiseerdediscovery: ontdekkingen

Belarus has freed 123 prisoners, including prominent opposition activist Maria Kolesnikova and Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski, after the US agreed to lift sanctions on the country. Also on the programme, Cambodia has shut its border crossings with Thailand, as fighting continues despite US President Donald Trump earlier saying they had agreed to a ceasefire; and, how the British novelist Charles Dickens is being celebrated this Christmas in a small Dutch town.(Belarus released over 100 political prisoners form prison, Vilnius, Lithuania - 13 Dec 2025. VALDA KALNINA/EPA/Shutterstock)

Access this supersized 148 minute episode (and additional monthly bonus episodes, including the continuing Prefab Sprout series) by becoming a Junk Filter patron! Only $5 (USD) a month!https://www.patreon.com/posts/226-prefab-from-145775014In part three of the podcast's series exploring the work of the extraordinary UK band Prefab Sprout, I am joined by Atlanta-based critic and theatre scholar Brice Ezell to discuss the band's most commercially successful album: 1988's From Langley Park to Memphis.Following the critical acclaim of Steve McQueen, frontman Paddy McAloon aimed for a glossy, broadly commercial sound this time. With full label support, no expense was spared on production, a sweeping, cinematic soundscape that blends sophisticated synthesizers and polished studio techniques with full orchestration, gospel choirs, and even a guest appearance from Stevie Wonder.Heavily influenced by Barbra Streisand's The Broadway Album, McAloon goes full Theatre Kid on this record. The project employed multiple producers (including the returning Thomas Dolby) and experimented across genres from arena rock to Broadway show tunes and adult contemporary. This approach generated two enduring UK radio hits: “The King of Rock 'n' Roll” (their only Top Ten single) and “Cars and Girls” (a subtle critique of Bruce Springsteen's persona).Brice and I dive deep on Langley Park, offering track-by-track analysis. We explore the album's surprising global footprint, tracing its influence from Norwegian singer-songwriters to Japanese City Pop, anime scores, and video game music. And we zero in on the album's central theme: an epic statement where Paddy deconstructs the American mythmaking machine from the vantage point of Northeast England, all while processing his band's sudden success and grappling with an uncertain future.My thanks to the Sproutology website, the ultimate online resource for the band.Follow Brice Ezell on Bluesky.The King of Rock 'n' Roll - from the Dutch music show TopPop, 1988Nightingales - Paddy McAloon on piano, from KCRW, 1988Mashup of Prefab Sprout's Knock on Wood and a track from the Japanese anime High School Aura Buster.

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Snowfall, Spice, and the Promise of Healing in Amsterdam Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-13-23-34-01-nl Story Transcript:Nl: Sneeuwvlokken dwarrelden zachtjes neer op de grachten van Amsterdam.En: Snowflakes gently drifted down onto the canals of Amsterdam.Nl: In de kleine, maar gezellige woning van Sofie was de sfeer warm en uitnodigend.En: In the small but cozy home of Sofie, the atmosphere was warm and inviting.Nl: Het appartement was versierd met glinsterende kerstlampjes en de geur van kaneel en kruidnagel zweefde door de lucht.En: The apartment was decorated with sparkling Christmas lights and the scent of cinnamon and cloves floated through the air.Nl: Het was Kerstmis, en Sofie had alles tot in de puntjes geregeld voor het familiediner.En: It was Christmas, and Sofie had everything meticulously arranged for the family dinner.Nl: Sofie wilde zo graag dat het een vredige kerst zou zijn.En: Sofie so dearly wanted it to be a peaceful Christmas.Nl: Haar kerstwens was eenvoudig: harmonie in de familie.En: Her Christmas wish was simple: harmony in the family.Nl: Maar de spanning in de woonkamer was voelbaar.En: But the tension in the living room was palpable.Nl: Maarten zat in een hoek en bladerde afwezig door zijn telefoon, terwijl Lotte met haar armen over elkaar op de bank zat, haar gezicht uitdrukkingloos.En: Maarten sat in a corner, absentmindedly scrolling through his phone, while Lotte sat on the couch with her arms crossed, her face expressionless.Nl: Toen het tijd was om aan tafel te gaan, schonk Sofie met een stralende glimlach de glazen vol wijn.En: When it was time to sit at the table, Sofie poured the glasses full of wine with a radiant smile.Nl: "Laten we proosten op een fijne Kerst," zei ze.En: "Let's toast to a wonderful Christmas," she said.Nl: Maarten keek op en hief zijn glas.En: Maarten looked up and raised his glass.Nl: "Op de familie," mompelde hij.En: "To the family," he muttered.Nl: Lotte knipperde met haar ogen en sloot zich aarzelend aan bij de toast.En: Lotte blinked her eyes and hesitantly joined in the toast.Nl: Het diner begon kalm, maar de gesprekken waren oppervlakkig en stroef.En: The dinner began calmly, but the conversations were superficial and awkward.Nl: Lotte prikte in haar eten en zei uiteindelijk met een zucht: "Dit is allemaal zo gekunsteld."En: Lotte poked at her food and eventually sighed: "This is all so contrived."Nl: Sofie voelde een golf van paniek opkomen, maar hield haar glimlach op haar gezicht.En: Sofie felt a wave of panic rising but kept a smile on her face.Nl: "Misschien hebben we het nodig dat alles even gekunsteld is," zei ze zachtjes.En: "Maybe we need everything to be a little contrived," she said softly.Nl: Maarten keek van zijn zussen naar zijn bord en zuchtte diep.En: Maarten looked from his sisters to his plate and sighed deeply.Nl: Hij wist dat Lotte nog steeds boosheid koesterde over dingen uit het verleden.En: He knew that Lotte still harbored resentment over things from the past.Nl: En hij wist ook dat zijn eigen onverschilligheid de situatie niet had geholpen.En: And he also knew that his own indifference had not helped the situation.Nl: De woorden waren nog niet goed en wel uitgesproken of Lotte begon te praten over vroeger, over tijden dat de huishouding chaotisch was geweest en de onderlinge relaties gespannen.En: The words were barely spoken when Lotte began to talk about the past, about times when the household had been chaotic and the relationships tense.Nl: De woorden die ze lange tijd had willen uitspreken rolden nu over haar lippen.En: The words she had wanted to speak for so long now flowed from her lips.Nl: Maarten keek op en legde zijn telefoon neer, bewust van de ernst van het moment.En: Maarten looked up and put down his phone, aware of the seriousness of the moment.Nl: Sofie keek haar jongere zus recht aan.En: Sofie looked directly at her younger sister.Nl: "Lotte," begon ze, "ik wil dat we dat verleden achter ons laten.En: "Lotte," she began, "I want us to leave the past behind.Nl: Laten we eerlijk zijn tegen elkaar.En: Let's be honest with each other.Nl: Zeg alles wat je voelt."En: Say everything you feel."Nl: Maarten keek op en knikte, een zeldzame uitdrukking van betrokkenheid op zijn gezicht.En: Maarten looked up and nodded, a rare expression of involvement on his face.Nl: "Ja," voegde hij eraan toe, "misschien is het tijd dat we vrijuit spreken."En: "Yes," he added, "maybe it's time we speak freely."Nl: Terwijl de confrontatie aan tafel escaleerde, begonnen jaren van frustraties en onuitgesproken emotie eindelijk naar buiten te komen.En: As the confrontation at the table escalated, years of frustrations and unspoken emotions finally began to surface.Nl: Het was intens en ongemakkelijk, maar ook noodzakelijk.En: It was intense and uncomfortable, but also necessary.Nl: Tegen de tijd dat de spanning wegebde, was er een nieuwe stilte gevallen, dit keer minder drukkend.En: By the time the tension subsided, a new silence had fallen, this time less oppressive.Nl: Lotte keek van Sofie naar Maarten.En: Lotte looked from Sofie to Maarten.Nl: "Misschien," zei ze aarzelend, "kunnen we vanaf nu beter met elkaar omgaan."En: "Maybe," she said hesitantly, "we can treat each other better from now on."Nl: Sofie voelde een sprankje hoop in haar opkomen.En: Sofie felt a spark of hope rising within her.Nl: "We zijn niet perfect," zei ze, "maar we zijn wel familie.En: "We aren't perfect," she said, "but we are family.Nl: En daar moeten we aan werken."En: And that is something to work on."Nl: Die avond eindigde met een voorzichtig gevoel van verzoening.En: That evening ended with a cautious feeling of reconciliation.Nl: De belofte om aan hun relaties te werken hing in de lucht, net als de geur van de inmiddels afgekoelde kerstmaaltijd.En: The promise to work on their relationships lingered in the air, just like the scent of the now-cooled Christmas meal.Nl: Sofie wist dat een perfect kerstfeest misschien te hoog gegrepen was geweest.En: Sofie realized that a perfect Christmas might have been too much to ask for.Nl: Maar ze had iets veel kostbaarders ontdekt: de mogelijkheid tot vernieuwing en eerlijkheid in de familieband.En: But she had discovered something far more valuable: the possibility for renewal and honesty in the family bond.Nl: De sneeuw bleef rustig vallen op de grachten, alsof de stad zelf ook zijn adem inhield in afwachting van betere tijden.En: The snow continued to fall quietly on the canals, as if the city itself was holding its breath in anticipation of better times.Nl: In het kleine Amsterdamse appartement was er een nieuwe belofte ontstaan, eentje die verder reikte dan alleen deze ene kerstavond.En: In the small Amsterdam apartment, a new promise had emerged, one that reached beyond just this one Christmas Eve. Vocabulary Words:drifted: dwarreldencozy: gezelligeinviting: uitnodigendscent: geurmeticulously: tot in de puntjespalpable: voelbaarabsentmindedly: afwezigexpressionless: uitdrukkingloossuperficial: oppervlakkigawkward: stroefcontrived: gekunsteldharbored: koesterderesentment: boosheidindifference: onverschilligheidchaotic: chaotischtense: gespannenflowed: roldenescalated: escaleerdeintense: intenssubsided: wegebdeoppressive: drukkendreconciliation: verzoeninglingered: hingrenewal: vernieuwinghonesty: eerlijkheidanticipation: afwachtingspark: sprankjeemerged: ontstondheld its breath: zijn adem inhieldhousehold: huishouding

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Silent Night, Unspoken Struggles: A Family's Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-13-08-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De sneeuw viel zachtjes op de daken van het kleine, rustige suburbane dorpje in Nederland.En: The snow gently fell on the roofs of the small, quiet suburban village in Nederland.Nl: In de woonkamer van het huis van de familie Jansen hing een geur van versgebakken kerstkoekjes en de getrouwe geur van de kerstboom.En: In the living room of the Jansen family's house, there was a scent of freshly baked Christmas cookies and the familiar smell of the Christmas tree.Nl: Het klonk gezellig, maar de spanning was te snijden.En: It sounded cozy, but the tension was palpable.Nl: Bram zat op de bank in het midden van de kamer.En: Bram sat on the couch in the middle of the room.Nl: Hij keek om zich heen.En: He looked around.Nl: De muren hingen vol met oude familiefoto's en in een hoekje speelde een stereo zachtjes kerstliederen.En: The walls were covered with old family photos, and in a corner, a stereo softly played Christmas carols.Nl: Zijn zus Tess liep druk heen en weer.En: His sister Tess was busily moving back and forth.Nl: Ze probeerde de tafel te dekken met de rode en gouden servetten die ze ieder jaar gebruikten.En: She was trying to set the table with the red and gold napkins they used every year.Nl: Ze maakte zich zorgen om Bram.En: She was worried about Bram.Nl: Ze wist dat het moeilijk voor hem zou zijn om hier te zijn.En: She knew it would be difficult for him to be here.Nl: Ingrid, hun moeder, zat in de stoel bij het raam.En: Ingrid, their mother, sat in the chair by the window.Nl: Ze keek uit naar buiten, alsof ze in gedachten verzonken was.En: She looked outside as if she was lost in thought.Nl: Maar niets ontging haar.En: But nothing escaped her notice.Nl: Ze hield er de schijn van een perfecte kerstbijeenkomst in de lucht.En: She maintained the appearance of a perfect Christmas gathering.Nl: Haar gezicht straalde vriendelijkheid uit, maar Bram wist dat haar blik scherp kon zijn.En: Her face radiated kindness, but Bram knew that her gaze could be sharp.Nl: De avond viel en uiteindelijk kwam ook Hans binnen, Brams vader.En: Evening fell, and eventually, Hans, Bram's father, came in.Nl: Hij hoopte het diner snel en zonder drama door te komen.En: He hoped to get through dinner quickly and without drama.Nl: Het gesprek verliep stroef.En: The conversation was awkward.Nl: Er was altijd wel een laag ijs tussen hen dat niemand durfde te breken.En: There was always a layer of ice between them that no one dared to break.Nl: Hans maakte, tussen twee happen door, een opmerking over Brams werk.En: Hans, between two bites, made a comment about Bram's work.Nl: “En hoe gaat het nou met jou, Bram?En: “And how is it going with you, Bram?Nl: Nog steeds niks gevonden, neem ik aan?” De opmerking leek onschuldig, maar voor Bram was het als een dolk.En: Still haven't found anything, I assume?” The remark seemed innocent, but to Bram, it was like a dagger.Nl: Zijn woede borrelde op, maar hij slikte het weg en keek richting Tess.En: His anger bubbled up, but he swallowed it and looked towards Tess.Nl: Toch kon hij het niet onderdrukken.En: Yet, he couldn't suppress it.Nl: “Altijd diezelfde vraag, hè pap?” Bram's stem trilde een beetje.En: “Always that same question, huh, dad?” Bram's voice trembled slightly.Nl: “Bestaat er iets waarvan jij blij wordt, of is het altijd kritiek?” Ingrid schoof nerveus heen en weer in haar stoel.En: “Is there anything that makes you happy, or is it always criticism?” Ingrid shifted nervously in her chair.Nl: “Jongens, het is kerst.En: “Boys, it's Christmas.Nl: Laten we het gezellig houden.” Maar de vulkaan was al uitgebarsten.En: Let's keep it pleasant.” But the volcano had already erupted.Nl: Hans rechtte zijn rug.En: Hans straightened his back.Nl: “Als je gewoon je best had gedaan, hoefde dit gesprek niet steeds terug te komen.” “Je geeft me nooit een kans!” riep Bram.En: “If you had just done your best, this conversation wouldn't always have to come up.” “You never give me a chance!” Bram shouted.Nl: “Je kijkt altijd alleen naar wat ik niet goed doe!” De kamer vulde zich met een pijnlijke stilte.En: “You always look only at what I do wrong!” The room filled with a painful silence.Nl: Tess liet de lepels die ze vasthield, vallen.En: Tess dropped the spoons she was holding.Nl: Ze stond in de deuropening, tranen in haar ogen.En: She stood in the doorway, tears in her eyes.Nl: “Stop het!En: “Stop it!Nl: Alsjeblieft… kunnen we niet gewoon één dag doen alsof?” Bram zuchtte diep en zijn blik ontmoette die van Tess.En: Please… can't we just pretend for one day?” Bram took a deep breath and his eyes met Tess's.Nl: Hij voelde zich ellendig.En: He felt miserable.Nl: Hij wilde haar beschermen, niet meer pijn doen.En: He wanted to protect her, not cause more pain.Nl: In de gespannen stilte stond hij op en liep naar buiten, de koude winterlucht in.En: In the tense silence, he stood up and walked outside into the cold winter air.Nl: Even later hoorde hij voetstappen achter zich.En: A moment later, he heard footsteps behind him.Nl: Tess kwam naast hem lopen.En: Tess came to walk beside him.Nl: Samen liepen ze een stukje, hun adem vormde wolkjes in de lucht.En: Together, they walked a bit, their breath forming clouds in the air.Nl: “Het spijt me, Tess,” zei Bram langzaam.En: “I'm sorry, Tess,” Bram said slowly.Nl: Ze glimlachte zwakjes naar hem.En: She gave him a weak smile.Nl: “Je hoeft je niet te verontschuldigen.En: “You don't need to apologize.Nl: We weten hoe het is.En: We know how it is.Nl: Maar laten we proberen er iets van te maken, oké?” Bram keek naar de sterren.En: But let's try to make something of it, okay?” Bram looked at the stars.Nl: “Ja, voor jou.En: “Yes, for you.Nl: We zullen er iets van maken.” In de koude nacht vond hij een moment van vrede.En: We'll make something of it.” In the cold night, he found a moment of peace.Nl: Hij besefte dat hij zijn familie misschien niet kon veranderen, maar wel zijn houding tegenover hen.En: He realized that he might not be able to change his family, but he could change his attitude towards them.Nl: En dat was misschien genoeg voor nu.En: And that might be enough for now. Vocabulary Words:suburban: suburbanetension: spanningpalpable: te snijdenstereo: stereonervously: nerveusawkward: stroefcriticism: kritiekinhale: inademengaze: blikdare: durvenremark: opmerkingdagger: dolksuppress: onderdrukkenstraightened: rechteshouted: riepswallowed: slikteerupted: uitgebarstenpretend: doen alsofclouds: wolkjesapologize: verontschuldigenbreath: ademmiserable: ellendigrealized: beseftechange: veranderenattitude: houdinglayer: laagcomment: opmerkinginnocent: onschuldigmaintain: houdensharp: scherp

"On The Town with Suz and Doug" Review Dutch Valley Restaurant in Sarasota, Florida. Note: We are not comped for our meals. (dougmilesmedia)

On Today's Episode –Snow has returned to Michigan and Winter is Here. Mark and Matt are jpioned by returning guest Bart Marcois. We meet Bart, and get a little back story. We move into Mark talking about Sec. of War Pete Hegseth being attacked on all fronts. Mark talks us through how we have been running clandestine operations for as long as we have been policing the world. People act like Trump is doing something different than Obama never did, which is preposterous.Tune in for all the Funhttps://aminutewithbart.com/ Bart Marcois is an international expert in energy, foreign affairs, and national security with experience in Europe and NATO, the Arabian Gulf, and East Asia. A senior corporate, government and foundation executive, Mr. Marcois has managed delicate negotiations in uncertain and changing environments.A media analyst in print and broadcast, he has served as a career Foreign Service Officer and as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Energy for Policy and International Affairs. At the Department of Energy, Marcois was the chief operating officer of a department with over 100 senior specialists and a $20 million budget to formulate U.S. domestic and international energy security policy. More recently, he managed an Administration effort at the FERC to streamline the permitting process for large infrastructure projects.As an American diplomat, Mr. Marcois conducted political analysis. He assisted the development of civil society, the rule of law, and democratic institutions in the context of Islamic societies. Mr. Marcois provided early warning of Islamist ideology, at a time when most American officials were oblivious to the threat. He is fluent in Arabic and Dutch.Marcois is a prolific contributor to the national debate about politics, culture, and national security affairs. He has authored over 200 articles in The Hill, American Greatness, OpsLens.com, and The Daily Caller, and is a frequent guest on television and radio broadcasts. He has appeared on Tucker Carlson Tonight, Fox and Friends, National Public Radio, The Hugh Hewitt Show, and The Blaze, among other programs.In the private sector, Mr. Marcois has served as a corporate director in a DC-based investment partnership managing activities in highly regulated sectors in Eastern and Central Europe. He was a director and executive in a Washington-based investment banking and commercial intelligence firm, and was a confidential advisor to several government entities. He conceived and executed public relations campaigns that achieved national impact.Mr. Marcois has served as a consultant to a federal advisory council on energy policy, and has been a course developer and instructor at both the Institute for Public-Private Partnership and The Leadership Institute.He has served as an executive and board member of several non-profit organizations, and is a former member of the Board of Directors of a coalition of 28 Christian churches that cooperate to provide early childhood care and education, food, rental assistance, furniture, and other services to low-income families of all denominations.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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On this episode, we discuss the great Dutch filmmaker Halina Reijn and her recent rise as a visionary filmmaker in the laste few years! In particular, we discuss her 2022 horror-comedy BODIES BODIES BODIES. Panel: Kristin Battestella, Megan Kearns, Julia Sirmons Visit insessionfilm.com for merch and more! Thanks for listening and be sure to subscribe! Become an ISF VIP today to get exclusive bonus content!

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Rediscovering Strength: A Heartwarming Holiday Adventure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-12-23-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: In de koude wintermaanden, straalden de lichtjes van Sinterklaas helder in de straten van Amsterdam.En: In the cold winter months, the lights of Sinterklaas shone brightly in the streets of Amsterdam.Nl: Jasper zat stil voor zijn raam.En: Jasper sat silently by his window.Nl: Hij keek naar buiten en zag mensen haastend langs de grachten.En: He looked outside and saw people hurrying along the canals.Nl: Sinds zijn knieoperatie voelde hij zich opgesloten in zijn eigen appartement.En: Since his knee surgery, he felt trapped in his own apartment.Nl: Hij verlangde naar de wereld daarbuiten, vooral tijdens de feestdagen.En: He longed for the outside world, especially during the holidays.Nl: Sanne belde hem op.En: Sanne called him.Nl: "Jasper, we gaan naar Artis.En: "Jasper, we're going to Artis.Nl: Kom je mee?"En: Are you coming?"Nl: Jasper aarzelde.En: Jasper hesitated.Nl: "Ik weet niet of ik het aankan, Sanne.En: "I don't know if I can handle it, Sanne.Nl: Mijn knie..." "Kom op, Jasper," zei Sanne met een warme stem.En: My knee..." "Come on, Jasper," said Sanne with a warm voice.Nl: "Bram en ik zullen je helpen.En: "Bram and I will help you.Nl: Het is Sinterklaas, en de dierentuin is prachtig versierd."En: It's Sinterklaas, and the zoo is beautifully decorated."Nl: Jasper voelde zich zwak, maar diep vanbinnen wilde hij op avontuur.En: Jasper felt weak, but deep down he wanted an adventure.Nl: Hij besloot mee te gaan.En: He decided to go.Nl: Voorzichtig deed hij zijn winterjas aan en pakte zijn krukken.En: Carefully, he put on his winter coat and grabbed his crutches.Nl: Bij de dierentuin aangekomen verwelkomde de geur van gepofte kastanjes en warme chocolademelk hen.En: Upon arriving at the zoo, the smell of roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate welcomed them.Nl: De lichtjes glinsterden als sterren boven het pad.En: The lights sparkled like stars above the path.Nl: Sanne en Bram hielpen Jasper langzaam door de ingang.En: Sanne and Bram slowly helped Jasper through the entrance.Nl: In het aquarium was het warm en rustig.En: In the aquarium, it was warm and calm.Nl: Een groot raam toonde vissen in felle kleuren.En: A large window showed fish in bright colors.Nl: Jasper ademde diep in, voelde rust.En: Jasper took a deep breath, feeling at peace.Nl: Maar toen kwam hij bij een gladde trap.En: But then he came to a slippery staircase.Nl: Zijn hart bonsde.En: His heart pounded.Nl: "Ik weet niet of ik het kan," zei hij zacht.En: "I don't know if I can do it," he said softly.Nl: Bram legde een hand op zijn schouder.En: Bram placed a hand on his shoulder.Nl: "We zijn hier voor je, Jasper.En: "We're here for you, Jasper.Nl: Samen lukt het."En: Together we can do it."Nl: Met hun steun stapte Jasper voorzichtig naar beneden.En: With their support, Jasper stepped carefully down.Nl: Zijn angst smolt weg als sneeuw in de zon.En: His fear melted away like snow in the sun.Nl: Onder hem sprongen de vissen, schitterend als de Sinterklaas lichtjes buiten.En: Below him, the fish swam, shimmering like the Sinterklaas lights outside.Nl: Ze zaten even stil op een bankje.En: They sat quietly on a bench for a moment.Nl: Zo dichtbij de exotische onderwaterwereld voelde Jasper zich opgenomen in een betoverende stroom.En: So close to the exotic underwater world, Jasper felt engulfed in an enchanting stream.Nl: De kleuren, het leven...En: The colors, the life...Nl: Het maakte iets in hem wakker.En: It awakened something inside him.Nl: Eindelijk, toen het tijd was om naar huis te gaan, voelde Jasper een warm gevoel van voldoening.En: Finally, when it was time to go home, Jasper felt a warm sense of satisfaction.Nl: Met iedere stap groeide zijn zelfvertrouwen.En: With each step, his confidence grew.Nl: Hij begreep dat hij moest vertrouwen op de mensen om hem heen.En: He understood he had to rely on the people around him.Nl: "Bedankt," zei hij tegen Sanne en Bram, zijn stem breekbaar maar oprecht.En: "Thank you," he said to Sanne and Bram, his voice fragile but sincere.Nl: Het was meer dan een simpele wandeling door Artis.En: It was more than a simple walk through Artis.Nl: Het was een avontuur naar zichzelf, een herontdekken van zijn kracht en de onmisbare steun van vriendschap.En: It was an adventure to himself, a rediscovery of his strength and the invaluable support of friendship.Nl: Terwijl de sneeuw zachtjes neerviel en de lichten verder twinkelden in de nacht, wist Jasper dat hij nooit meer alleen zou zijn in zijn reis naar herstel.En: As the snow fell softly and the lights twinkled further into the night, Jasper knew he would never be alone again in his journey to recovery.Nl: En voor het eerst sinds lange tijd voelde hij hoopvol naar wat komen zou.En: And for the first time in a long time, he felt hopeful about what was to come. Vocabulary Words:trapped: opgeslotenhesitated: aarzeldehandle: aankanfragile: breekbaarcrutches: krukkenenchanted: betoverendslippery: gladdepounded: bonsdeengulfed: opgenomensatisfaction: voldoeningsupport: steuncraved: verlangdeadventure: avontuurrediscovery: herontdekkenconfidence: zelfvertrouweninvaluable: onmisbarejourney: reislonged: verlangdewarm: warmtebeneath: ondertwinkled: twinkeldenwelcomed: verwelkomdesparkled: glinsterdencalm: rustigexotic: exotischemelting: smoltbreath: ademenglistening: schitterendhearted: oprechtslowly: langzaam

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Mystery in the Amsterdamse Bos: Jasper's Winter Triumph Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-12-08-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: In het hart van het Amsterdamse Bos hing een magische sfeer.En: In the heart of the Amsterdamse Bos, a magical atmosphere hung in the air.Nl: Lichtjes glinsterden tussen de bomen, en een dun laagje sneeuw bedekte de grond.En: Lights twinkled among the trees, and a thin layer of snow covered the ground.Nl: De geur van warme speculaas en vrolijke muziek vulde de ijskoude lucht.En: The scent of warm speculaas and cheerful music filled the icy air.Nl: Het was de jaarlijkse winterfestival, een mooie viering in de aanloop naar Sinterklaas.En: It was the annual winter festival, a lovely celebration in the lead-up to Sinterklaas.Nl: Jasper, een nieuwsgierige jongeman met een passie voor raadseloplossingen, liep tussen de kraampjes door.En: Jasper, a curious young man with a passion for solving puzzles, walked among the stalls.Nl: Hij voelde zich zenuwachtig.En: He felt nervous.Nl: Dit jaar was hij vastbesloten om zichzelf te bewijzen aan zijn familie, die weinig geloof in zijn puzzeltalenten had.En: This year, he was determined to prove himself to his family, who had little faith in his puzzle-solving talents.Nl: Lotte, zijn levendige neef, sprong naast hem.En: Lotte, his lively cousin, jumped beside him.Nl: "Kijk eens, Jasper," riep ze terwijl ze naar een jongleur wees.En: "Look, Jasper," she called while pointing at a juggler.Nl: "Zoiets wil ik ook kunnen!"En: "I want to be able to do that too!"Nl: Maar Jasper had iets anders aan zijn hoofd.En: But Jasper had something else on his mind.Nl: Het gesprek van de mensen om hem heen boeide zijn aandacht.En: The conversation of the people around him captured his attention.Nl: De beroemde ijssculptuur van het festival, erfstuk van de stad, was verdwenen.En: The famous ice sculpture of the festival, a city heirloom, had disappeared.Nl: Zijn ogen glinsterden.En: His eyes sparkled.Nl: Dit was zijn kans!En: This was his chance!Nl: Ondertussen hield Bram, een stille vrijwilliger die het bos goed kende, ze nauwlettend in de gaten.En: Meanwhile, Bram, a quiet volunteer who knew the forest well, was keeping a close watch on them.Nl: Hij zag de kans die Jasper wilde grijpen en besloot te helpen.En: He saw the opportunity that Jasper wanted to seize and decided to help.Nl: Bram kende elk hoekje en gaatje van het bos, en met hem aan hun zijde, zou het misschien kunnen lukken.En: Bram knew every nook and cranny of the forest, and with him on their side, they might just succeed.Nl: Jasper hoorde een gerucht over vreemde geluiden bij het bevroren meer.En: Jasper heard a rumor about strange noises by the frozen lake.Nl: "Kom op, Lotte!En: "Come on, Lotte!Nl: We moeten dit onderzoeken," zei hij impulsief.En: We need to investigate this," he said impulsively.Nl: Lotte knikte opgewonden en volgde hem, met Bram stil volgend.En: Lotte nodded excitedly and followed him, with Bram quietly trailing them.Nl: De paden waren glad en de mensenmenigte was groot.En: The paths were slippery and the crowd was large.Nl: Het was moeilijk om voortgang te maken.En: It was difficult to make progress.Nl: Lotte's nieuwsgierigheid leidde hen soms weg van de route, maar elke omweg bracht hen toch dichter bij hun doel.En: Lotte's curiosity sometimes led them off course, but every detour brought them closer to their goal.Nl: Ze zochten zorgvuldig, terwijl de wind hun wangen rood kleurde.En: They searched carefully, while the wind turned their cheeks red.Nl: De avond viel.En: Evening fell.Nl: De lucht was donkerder en de spanning nam toe.En: The sky grew darker and the tension increased.Nl: Bij het meer hoorden ze inderdaad vreemde geluiden.En: By the lake, they indeed heard strange noises.Nl: Jasper leidde hen naar de bron van het geluid, en daar vonden ze het!En: Jasper led them to the source of the sound, and there they found it!Nl: De ijssculptuur was zorgvuldig verstopt in een holle boom.En: The ice sculpture was carefully hidden in a hollow tree.Nl: Pranksters hadden het daar neergezet om chaos te veroorzaken.En: Pranksters had placed it there to cause chaos.Nl: Met de hulp van Bram duwden ze de zware sculptuur voorzichtig terug naar het festival.En: With Bram's help, they carefully pushed the heavy sculpture back to the festival.Nl: Precies op tijd!En: Just in time!Nl: De muziek begon, en de lichten richtten zich op het glinsterende ijsbeeld.En: The music began, and the lights focused on the glistening ice figure.Nl: Het publiek juichte.En: The crowd cheered.Nl: Jasper voelde iets dat hem verwarmde, een vreugde die sterker was dan de winterkou.En: Jasper felt something warm him, a joy stronger than the winter cold.Nl: Voor het eerst erkende zijn familie zijn vaardigheden.En: For the first time, his family acknowledged his skills.Nl: Ze kwamen naar hem toe en gaven hem knuffels en lovende woorden.En: They came to him and gave him hugs and words of praise.Nl: "Dit was geweldig, Jasper!"En: "This was amazing, Jasper!"Nl: zei Lotte stralend.En: said Lotte beaming.Nl: Bram glimlachte stilletjes, tevreden met zijn bijdrage aan het avontuur.En: Bram smiled quietly, satisfied with his contribution to the adventure.Nl: Het festival verliep zonder verdere storingen, en Jasper stond trots naast zijn vrienden.En: The festival continued without further disturbances, and Jasper stood proudly next to his friends.Nl: Hij had het gedaan.En: He had done it.Nl: Niet alleen had hij het festival gered, maar hij had ook het vertrouwen in zichzelf en de trots van zijn familie gewonnen.En: Not only had he saved the festival, but he had also won confidence in himself and his family's pride.Nl: De magie van Sinterklaas en het Amsterdamse Bos hadden hun werk gedaan.En: The magic of Sinterklaas and the Amsterdamse Bos had worked their magic. Vocabulary Words:heart: hartmagical: magischetwinkled: glinsterdenscent: geurcheerful: vrolijkeannual: jaarlijksecurious: nieuwsgierigenervous: zenuwachtigdetermined: vastbeslotencapture: boeideheirloom: erfstukopportunity: kansnook: hoekjecranny: gaatjerumor: geruchtimpulsively: impulsiefslippery: gladdetour: omwegprogress: voortgangcarefully: zorgvuldighidden: verstoptpranksters: pranksterschaos: chaosheavy: zwarecrowd: publiekglistening: glinsterendedisturbances: storingenacknowledged: erkendepraise: lovendesatisfied: tevreden

The Battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775, known as the "shot heard round the world," marked the first military engagements of the American Revolution. Ralph Waldo Emerson named it that because it launched revolutionary movements in Europe and beyond, marking it as a key moment in the fight for liberty and self-governance. But this moment was global in more ways than inspiring other nations. The quest for independence by the 13 North American colonies against British rule rapidly escalated into a worldwide conflict. The Patriots forged alliances with Britain’s key adversaries—France, Spain, and the Netherlands—securing covert arms supplies initially, which evolved into open warfare by 1779. French and Spanish naval campaigns in the Caribbean diverted British forces from North America to defend valuable sugar colonies, while American privateers disrupted British trade, bolstering the rebel economy. All of this international involvement was promoted by the Founding Fathers, because the Declaration of Independence was translated into French, Spanish, Dutch, and other languages and distributed by them across Europe to garner sympathy and support from nations like France and the Netherlands. Spain’s separate war against Britain in Florida and South America, alongside French efforts to spark uprisings in British-controlled India, further strained Britain’s ability to quash the rebellion. Post-independence, the consequences rippled globally: Britain and Spain tightened their grip on remaining colonies, Native American tribes faced heightened land encroachments due to the loss of British protections, and enslaved African Americans who fought for Britain, lured by promises of freedom, were relocated to Nova Scotia and later Sierra Leone. To explore this new framework of the Revolutionary War is today’s guest, Richard Bell, author of “The American Revolution and the Fate of the World.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Paris Marx is joined by Ben Wray to discuss the Europe's capitulation to pressure from the United States on Nexperia, as well as on digital protections and labor rights that could have big implications for the future of work. Ben Wray is a researcher specializing in the platform economy. He writes the Gig Economy Project newsletter and his most recent report for the ETUC is called Uberisation. Tech Won't Save Us offers a critical perspective on tech, its worldview, and wider society with the goal of inspiring people to demand better tech and a better world. Support the show on Patreon. The podcast is made in partnership with The Nation. Production is by Kyla Hewson. Today's sponsors are ExpressVPN and ⁠Aura Frames. Get four months free by visiting ExpressVPN.com/TWSU. Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at ⁠https://on.auraframes.com/PARIS⁠. Promo Code PARIS Also mentioned in this episode: Ben wrote about the brief attempt by the Dutch to nationalize Nexperia. In leaked documents from 2012-2017 Uber executives recognize their own illegal activity and refer to themselves as ‘pirates'. Spain recently ordered Meta to pay €479m fine for breaching EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

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A full-color reference guide to beneficial plants and mushrooms“An excellent resource about the natural properties of plants.”—Kirkus Reviews• Explores the ethnobotany and practical applications of 30 plants, fruits, nuts, bulbs, roots, flowers, and mushrooms that support the immune system, digestion, endurance, vitality, and the brain• Examines ritual and mind-expanding plants such as fly agaric, blue lotus, cannabis, and peyote cactus• Offers 60 delicious vegetarian recipes (two for each plant or mushroom) by Michelin star chef Joris BijdendijkWHILE KNOWING that spending time in nature and eating healthy is important, we often dismiss the fact that plants have been used as healing medicine for thousands of years.In this guide, Wouter Bijdendijk highlights thirty mushrooms, herbs, flowers, fruits, nuts, bulbs, and roots that support the immune system, digestion, endurance, vitality, and the brain—from ginseng and turmeric to chaga and reishi to olive and chamomile. He also explores several plants that have played a significant role in rituals and ceremonies, such as fly agaric, blue lotus, cannabis, and peyote cactus, enabling our ancestors to connect with deeper layers of themselves, the spiritual realms, and the Divine. Michelin star chef Joris Bijdendijk provides two delicious vegetarian recipes for each major plant, offering culinary delights to help you easily incorporate the medicinal powers of these plants in your life.A journey through the deep and ancient roots of plant knowledge, from folk uses to mystical properties to the vital role of plants in human evolution, this book shows you how to harness the natural power of plants to revitalize your body, integrate your spirit, and empower your life.Wouter Bijdendijk is an anthropologist specializing in ethnobotany and pharmacognosy with a degree from Amsterdam University. In more than 20 years of touring the world as renowned mentalist and magician Ramana, Wouter has studied herbal medicine in different traditions from around the globe. An author, lecturer, and TEDx speaker, he lives in the Netherlands.Chef Joris Bijdendijk earned three Michelin stars within just eight years of beginning his career. As executive chef at RIJKS®, the restaurant of the Rijksmuseum, and Wils as well as Wils Bakery Café in Amsterdam, Joris is one of the leading culinary figures in the Netherlands. Beyond the kitchen, he is a columnist for Dutch newspaper Het Parool, founder of the Low Food Foundation, and author of several cookbooks.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/earth-ancients--2790919/support.

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