Podcasts about engaging

There are about 100 days left in the year, and we discuss why starting your 100-day countdown can make you happier. We also explore a hack that will help you read, learn, and get entertained, and we share interesting responses from listeners about the power of engaging. Resources & links related to this episode: For the Happier Podcast Book Club: All the Way to the River: Love, Loss and Liberation by Elizabeth Gilbert (Amazon, Bookshop) Joshua Rothman's New Yorker article "A.I. Is Coming for Culture" Listen to the new podcast Since You Asked with Lori Gottlieb and Gretchen Rubin Happier in Hollywood Substack Secrets of Adulthood Substack "Fall in Love with Your Next Novel" Quiz Elizabeth is reading: Actress of a Certain Age by Jeff Hiller (Amazon, Bookshop) Gretchen is reading: The Secret Commonwealth by Philip Pullman (Amazon, Bookshop) Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 538 of 'Coffee with Butterscotch,' the brothers unpack the chaos of a rogue translator derailing Silksong's Chinese localization, the rollercoaster of post-launch game reviews, and the uphill climb of making sequels. They also share tips for finding trustworthy news, and drop the Overflow Update for Crashlands 2, pack with fresh content.Support Crashlands 2!Official Website: https://www.bscotch.net/games/crashlands-2/Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib7fzLf59voSteam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1401730/Crashlands2/Google Play:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bscotch.crashlands2Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crashlands-2/id152819933100:00 Introduction and Welcome01:03 Thanks to our supporters! (https://moneygrab.bscotch.net)01:11 Silksong Hype and Indie Game Success05:25 Localization Challenges and Translation Issues12:15 Game Launch Challenges and Community Feedback26:02 Review Scores and Post-Launch Adjustments29:40 Navigating Player Reactions to Game Sequels31:02 Balancing Expectations in Game Development32:43 The Challenge of Innovating While Retaining Core Fans35:08 Crashlands 2: Expanding and Innovating36:07 The Overflow Update: New Features and Enhancements38:27 Engaging with the Community and Gathering Feedback39:22 (Listener Question) Finding Reliable News Sources in a Click-Driven World46:48 The Importance of Expertise and Avoiding Misinformation01:01:23 Conclusion and Community EngagementTo stay up to date with all of our buttery goodness subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts (apple.co/1LxNEnk) or wherever you get your audio goodness. If you want to get more involved in the Butterscotch community, hop into our DISCORD server at discord.gg/bscotch and say hello! Submit questions at https://www.bscotch.net/podcast, disclose all of your secrets to podcast@bscotch.net, and send letters, gifts, and tasty treats to https://bit.ly/bscotchmailbox. Finally, if you'd like to support the show and buy some coffee FOR Butterscotch, head over to https://moneygrab.bscotch.net. ★ Support this podcast ★

Too many podcasters rush out content without knowing if it lands with listeners. And when something flops, the damage is already done. Thankfully, there's an alternative way to test new content! In this episode, Vince Quinn shares how to test new segments, styles, and strategies using a simple four-step pilot process that helps you refine ideas before releasing them. Get ready to stop guessing, start testing, and build a show that actually gets results!MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/349TakeawaysConstant content creation can lead to a feeling of disposability in podcasts.Podcasters should prioritize quality over quantity in their episodes.Using pilots can help refine ideas before presenting them to the audience.Guest screenings are an essential part of the podcasting process.Iteration and feedback are crucial for improving podcast content.Testing ideas privately can lead to better public presentations.Engaging with a premium audience for feedback can enhance content quality.Rushed content can dilute a podcast's brand and audience trust.Every aspect of a podcast can benefit from a pilot approach.It's acceptable to discard ideas that don't resonate after testing.00:00 The Pressure of Constant Content Creation03:13 The Importance of Quality Over Quantity in Podcasting06:06 Implementing Pilots for Podcast Success08:48 Guest Screening as a Pilot Process11:55 The Value of Iteration and FeedbackTakeawaysMORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/349

Social media isn't just about churning out endless posts, it's also about genuine engagement and community building. Even if you only have a few minutes a day, you can still build engagement into your daily routine. I'll walk you through my signature 10-10-10 Method aka The Shannon Method, for intentional engagement, and share stories of how meaningful conversations, (yes, real convos in the DMs!) can lead to unexpected friendships, collaborations, and business growth. Whether you're managing a brand, just starting out, or simply feeling overwhelmed with social media, you can take this simple engagement strategy, customize it, and run with it!In this episode we'll be covering:My 10-10-10 Method for Instagram engagement and community building, breaking down each step.Sparking real conversations and connections with meaningful comments instead of boring generic comments that get overlooked.How daily, consistent engagement still leads to account growth with minimal posting.Engaging with hashtags and accounts your target audience follows, including local businesses or influencers.Building genuine relationships through the DMs and connecting over shared experiences or interests.Thinking of social media as a networking opportunity and perfect for introverts wanting to grow their business.Recommended episodes:Episode 034: Is Engagement the Most Important Metric on Instagram?Episode 043: We're Getting Back to Basics and Loving Our ContentEpisode 062: Why You Don't Need Fancy Content to Stand OutEpisode 070: Instagram Growth Hacks That Actually Work and Give Your Account PersonalitySend a message!Join me in the Reels Lab! Love this conversation? Make sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Connect with me on Instagram!

Send us a text"We are all souls here...Live and let live."  How do we make that practical in our current environment?  In this episode of Spiritual Perspectives: Discerning News, the hosts highlight recent criminal news  stories and law enforcement initiatives to provide a spiritual perspective on the shift in societal boundaries as waves of energy moving on planet earth.  Coincidentally, this was recorded just prior to Charlie Kirk being shot. They offered insight and spiritual solutions to maintain a positive thrust and inner peace. They discuss the how the laws or rules and regulations of society evolved, and the purpose of boundaries.  Keys discussed:We are all souls here, navigating our individual journeys.Having boundaries is essential for personal growth.Understanding energy waves helps us navigate societal changes.The importance of inner discipline for happiness and fulfillment.Recognizing where I begin and end is crucial for self-awareness.The collective consciousness reflects individual experiences.Spirituality involves both intellect and feeling.Engaging with spiritual practices can lead to greater clarity.Personal growth requires sincerity and commitment to oneself.Being aware of societal shifts can help us adapt and thrive.Discover spiritual truths delivered in a practical way in these three e-books created by The Wayshowers College. Use discount code TNT2025 to receive 20% off the set. Ready to FEEL more FREEDOM within? Access the FREE video series created by The Wayshowers College here! Enjoy the first chapter of The Soul Quake Survival Guide here!Support the showHi! I'm Teresa. I have created this podcast to support "unseen" aspects of your life. You can call this the spiritual side. The podcast offers interviews of authors, healers, and thought leaders, for a positive higher spiritual perspective. Including ourselves! Our mission is to stimulate your inner wisdom, meaning, and enthusiasm for your unique journey. My husband Tom and I are also certified Spiritual Educators, and Consultants, who help make spirituality practical. We work spiritual awareness and sensitivity in all areas of our life for positive living. Through TNT ( Teresa n' Tom :) SpiritWorks, we can help you tap into your own Inner Guidance system on a daily basis, create a healthy balance between Thought and Feeling, and discover a stronger connection between you and your personal Spirit Guides through your Inner and Outer communication system: your Four Spiritual Gifts. Unlock ways to make the spiritual part of life practical. Connect with us at TNT SpiritWorks today! Follow us on:

Welcome to a special episode of the AlzAuthors podcast, part of our first-ever Film Festival! Celebrating our 10th anniversary, host Marianne Sciucco sits down with acclaimed arts educator, author, and filmmaker Mary Crescenzo to explore the transformative role of the arts in dementia care. In this heartfelt conversation, Mary shares her journey from early experiences in nursing homes to the creation of her poetic play-turned-film, "Planet A." We discuss her innovative, age-blind casting, the real-life stories inspiring her work, and practical strategies caregivers can use to bring arts engagement into dementia care—at home or in care facilities. Whether you're navigating Alzheimer's in your family, working in dementia care, or seeking creative approaches to foster dignity and connection, this episode is filled with inspiring insights and actionable tips. Key Topics Covered: Dementia Care & the Arts: Mary describes how music, visual art, dance, storytelling, and poetry can spark joy, communication, and connection for people living with dementia.How the Arts Can Reduce Isolation: Real examples showing that engaging in the arts can counteract boredom, boost mood, and foster community in care settings.Art Activities for Caregivers: Practical advice and encouragement for caregivers to use arts engagement at home—even if you don't see yourself as an artist!Readings from the Film: Moving excerpts from Mary's poetry, capturing the emotional landscape of people living with dementia and their caregivers. Quotes: “Everyone should be engaged in the arts to whatever level, because it's so beneficial to heart and mind and life.” – Mary Crescenzo“Boredom is huge. People decline when they're bored. But you give them something creative, they light up.” – Marianne Sciucco“You don't have to be an artist to make a difference – just pick up a pencil, sing together, or sway to music.” - Mary Crescenzo Takeaways: Try simple creative activities—drawing, music, singing, storytelling—regularly, not just once.Don't let fear or “not being an artist” stop you. The benefits are in doing, not perfection.Engaging in the arts brings meaning, dignity, and even joy to those living with dementia.The arts can transform not only the person with dementia but also relieve and uplift caregivers.Seek out support, community, and inspiration—you are not alone!   Resources and Links: Watch "Planet A" – available until year-end on YouTube. Register at AlzAuthors.com to receive linkBuy Mary Crescenzo's Book: "The Planet Alzheimer's Guide – 8 Ways the Arts Can Transform the Life of Your Loved One and Your Own" on AmazonVisit AlzAuthors Website for a wealth of caregiver resourcesLearn about Creative Writing Workshops for Caregivers: Contact Mary CrescenzoSubscribe to our Podcast: Available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeartRadio and more.Follow AlzAuthors on Social: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter/X and Blue Sky for daily support, book recommendations, and community stories. Don't miss our continuing film festival—visit our website for upcoming screenings, panel discussions, and more creative resources for the dementia journey. If you found this episode helpful, subscribe, share, and leave us a review! For more stories and support, visit alzauthors.com. Meet the Moderators Marianne Sciucco Christy Byrne Yates About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer's and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don't miss a word. If our authors' stories move you, please leave a review. And don't forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. Proud to be a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast Want to be on the podcast? Here's what you need to know Shop our Store

Dustin Maddox continues our journey through the book of Acts with a sermon on Acts 17:16-34. Here, Paul explains Jesus and the Christian God to the city of Athens, an area largely unfamiliar with these beliefs. We follow his experience preaching to the people of Athens, and look for lessons that can be applied to our lives today. Sermon originally recorded on September 14th, 2025.

In this engaging Soul Thursdays conversation, Dr. Tanecia Mitchell shares her journey as a scientist, author, and mentor, intertwining her passion for health with her faith. She discusses her early inspirations to pursue science, the challenges she faced, and how her experiences led her to write her book Renew the Inner You. The discussion emphasizes the importance of acknowledging emotions, the role of scripture in personal growth, and encouraging young women of color to pursue careers in STEM. Dr. Mitchell also outlines her five-step plan for emotional renewal, highlighting the significance of practical steps alongside spiritual guidance. ✨ Takeaways Dr. Mitchell's journey began with a childhood dream to cure AIDS. She emphasizes the importance of faith in her scientific work. Writing Renew the Inner You was a process of healing and self-discovery. Acknowledging emotions is crucial for personal growth. Scripture provides guidance in managing emotions and perspectives. Encouraging young women of color in STEM is a priority for Dr. Mitchell. Her five-step plan for emotional renewal is practical and actionable. Mentoring others is a significant part of her mission. Dr. Mitchell believes in the power of community and collaboration. She plans to write more books, including a children's book.

Visit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation. www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.In this episode of Kingdom Crossroads, host T.S. Wright welcomes Jennifer Bosma, an author and podcast host, to share her inspiring journey of faith. Jennifer discusses her early experiences with faith, the impact of Billy Graham, and the importance of prayer and scripture in the lives of Christian mothers. She emphasizes the significance of discipleship in the Christian faith and shares the backstory of her children's books, which aim to instill biblical values in young readers. The conversation highlights the power of personal stories, the role of prayer in parenting, and the importance of engaging children in their spiritual growth.TakeawaysEveryone has a great story with twists and turns.True success comes from surrender to God.The power of scripture is essential for moms.Praying over children can shape their lives.Take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.Discipleship is the heart of the gospel.Start small in ministry and be obedient.Use everyday tools like phones to pray.Writing children's books can be a ministry.Engaging children in prayer is vital for their faith.Jennifer Bosma's Information:www.jenniferbosma.comMentioned in this episode:Buffalo, NY Shoutout25/40 Campaign

In advance of our Ger Graus season which will be based on his book Through a Different Lens - Lessons from a Life in Education I have created a summary podcast of our previous conversation (Ep 439) using NotebookLM. This is as - described on it's website - 'the AI research tool and thinking partner that can analyze your sources, turn complexity into clarity and transform your content'.You will hear 2 AI voices discuss and summarise our conversation about Ger's book. Why do this? Partly as a quick recap before we start the Ger Graus season but also to help me understand what is currently possible with AI in advance of our Education on Fire LIVE Stream shows that will focus on AI in education.To keep up to date with everything we are doing and download our FREE top 10 resources pdf please visit https://www.educationonfire.com/

Send us a textSend me an email at manspacetherapy@gmail.com to gain access to the beta version of the e-course. Limited to 10 spaces.In this conversation, Matt explores the concept of the 'Seven Chambers of the Man's Soul,' focusing on the psychological and emotional states that men often navigate. He introduces three primary chambers of the mind: the Compliance Chamber, the Withdrawal Chamber, and the Defiance Chamber, each representing different coping mechanisms and emotional responses. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these chambers to foster emotional awareness and personal growth, ultimately encouraging men to confront their fears and anger for true transformation.TakeawaysCompartmentalization is a common survival mechanism for men.Avoiding conflict can lead to emotional stagnation.Imagery can aid in understanding complex emotional states.The Compliance Chamber is focused on appeasing others' demands.The Withdrawal Chamber offers temporary relief but leads to long-term issues.Numbing behaviors can exacerbate underlying stress.The Defiance Chamber contains repressed anger and fear.True transformation requires confronting uncomfortable emotions.Breaking free from these chambers is essential for emotional health.Engaging with one's internal experience fosters deeper connections.Sound bites"Ignore or push through your pain.""Avoid conflict at all costs.""You believe you'll make it work."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Seven Chambers of the Man's Soul02:56 Understanding the Three Chambers of the Mind05:50 Exploring the Compliance Chamber09:10 Delving into the Withdrawal Chamber12:09 The Defiance Chamber: Anger and Fear15:02 Breaking Free from the Chambers17:57 Conclusion and Next StepsSpread the word! The Manspace is Rad!!

In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman discuss their upcoming training sessions focused on integrating AI into education. They emphasize the importance of understanding AI's impact on the job market, the necessity of prompt engineering as a new skill for educators, and the need for AI literacy among students. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of AI tools and the importance of addressing mental health concerns related to technology use among students. You can learn more about the five part series: https://web.cvent.com/event/19d647db-557e-4502-8a0c-17bd3325fe0b/summary Takeaways AI is reshaping the educational landscape and job market. Understanding AI's impact is crucial for educators and students. Prompt engineering is a vital skill for effective AI use. Generative AI can enhance learning and career exploration. Educators must engage with students about AI and its implications. AI literacy is essential for preparing students for future careers. The evolution of AI tools requires ongoing adaptation in teaching. Interdisciplinary approaches can enrich AI education. Mental health concerns related to technology must be addressed. Local context is important in AI training for educators. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Education 02:51 The Driftwood: Navigating AI's Impact 08:38 Understanding Job Market Changes 14:19 Prompt Engineering: The New Skill 20:05 AI Literacy and Its Importance 25:57 Engaging with Students on AI and Mental Health

We unpack South Park's Charlie Kirk controversy: why fans say the “Sicko Fantasy” episode was pulled from TV yet streams on Paramount+, what it means for cancel culture, and how comedy, free speech, and influencer capitalism collide.Plus: the AI subplot you missed, and why outrage might be the business model.00:00 The Charlie Kirk Incident and South Park's Controversy01:15 Who is Charlie Kirk?03:07 Candace Owens and Conservative Influencers07:58 South Park's History and Cultural Impact15:51 Comedy and Cancel Culture27:37 Influencers and Their Stories35:35 Spotting Influences in Content Creation36:42 The Flattening of Society and Regression to the Mean36:57 Behind the Curtain: Show vs. Business40:39 The Evolution of Creative Information Gathering44:52 AI and the Future of Trendspotting46:53 Influencers and Their Strategies49:28 Engaging with Audience Comments55:28 Relatable Characters in Modern Media01:01:37 James Gunn and the Future of DC01:05:27 Closing Remarks and AnnouncementsYouTube Video: https://youtu.be/5yfHOjJhNlc#SouthPark #CharlieKirk #CancelCulture #ComedyCentral #ParamountPlus #PoliticalComedy #Podcast #ShowVsBusiness #KpopDemonHunters----------Show vs. Business is your weekly take on Pop Culture from two very different perspectives. Your hosts Theo and  Mr. Benja provide all the relevant info to get your week started right.Looking to start your own podcast ? The guys give their equipment google list recommendation that is updated often Sign up - https://www.showvsbusiness.com/----------Follow us on Instagram - https://instagram.com/show_vs_businessFollow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/showvsbusinessLike us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ShowVsBusinessSubscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuwni8la5WRGj25uqjbRwdQ/featuredFollow Theo on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@therealtheoharvey Follow Mr.Benja on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@BenjaminJohnsonakaMrBenja --------

On today's AgNet News Hour, Nick Papagni and Josh McGill celebrated California Wine Month with special guest Julie Berge of the Wine Institute. Berge, who recently joined the Institute, shared her enthusiasm for an industry steeped in tradition yet looking boldly toward the future. California's Global Wine Standing Berge highlighted the scale of California's contribution to the global wine market. The state produces 81% of all U.S. wine, making it the fourth-largest wine producer in the world, behind only France, Italy, and Spain. With 6,200 wineries across 49 counties, California remains a powerhouse not just in production but also in culture, tourism, and economic impact. Sustainability at the Forefront One of the most surprising facts Berge shared is that 90% of California wine is produced in certified sustainable wineries, and around 65% of vineyard acreage is certified sustainable. Consumers increasingly want to know how their wine is produced, and California is leading with practices that reduce environmental impact while ensuring quality. “That's something to be proud of,” Berge said. Engaging the Next Generation of Wine Drinkers The conversation also focused on the challenge of reaching younger consumers, who often view wine as intimidating. Berge pointed to innovation in packaging—like canned wines, boxed options, and lighter bottles—as tools to make wine more accessible. Social media also plays a critical role in reaching new audiences and sharing the stories behind the bottles. She emphasized that 95% of California wineries are family-owned, each with unique histories and vintages that add to wine's storytelling appeal. “Wine is about connection,” she said, encouraging young people to explore through wine tastings. The Institute's website, discovercaliforniawines.com, offers a map of wineries, events, and resources to help consumers learn and connect. Looking Ahead While the industry faces headwinds with shifting consumer trends, international competition, and market challenges, Berge remains optimistic. “We have an incredible product and a passionate community,” she said. “This is the time to reintroduce wine to a new generation.” For the full interview with Julie Berge of the Wine Institute, listen to today's AgNet News Hour at AgNetWest.com.

In this introductory episode to their new series on the Parables of Jesus, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb explore the profound theological significance of Christ's parables. Far from being mere teaching tools to simplify complex ideas, parables serve a dual purpose in God's redemptive plan: revealing spiritual truth to those with "ears to hear" while concealing these same truths from those without spiritual illumination. This episode lays the groundwork for understanding how parables function as divine teaching devices that embody core Reformed doctrines like election and illumination. As the hosts prepare to journey through all the parables in the Gospels, they invite listeners to consider the blessing of being granted spiritual understanding and the privilege of receiving the "secrets of the kingdom" through Christ's distinctive teaching method. Key Takeaways Parables are more than illustrations—they are comparisons that reveal kingdom truths to those with spiritual ears to hear while concealing truth from those without spiritual illumination. Jesus intentionally taught in parables not to simplify his teaching but partly to fulfill Isaiah's prophecy about those who hear but do not understand, confirming the spiritual condition of his hearers. The ability to understand parables is itself evidence of God's sovereign grace and election, as Jesus states in Matthew 13:16: "Blessed are your eyes for they see and your ears for they hear." Parables vary in form and function—some are clearly allegorical while others make a single point, requiring each to be approached on its own terms. Proper interpretation requires context—understanding both the original audience and the question or situation that prompted Jesus to use a particular parable. Parables function like Nathan's confrontation of David—they draw hearers in through narrative before revealing uncomfortable truths about themselves. Studying parables requires spiritual humility—recognizing that our understanding comes not from intellectual capacity but from the Spirit's illumination. Understanding Parables as Revelation, Not Just Illustration The hosts emphasize that parables are fundamentally different from mere illustrations or fables. While modern readers often assume Jesus used parables to simplify complex spiritual truths, the opposite is frequently true. As Tony explains, "A parable fundamentally is a comparison between two things... The word parable comes from the Greek of casting alongside." This distinction is crucial because it changes how we approach interpretation. Rather than breaking down each element as an allegorical component, we should first understand what reality Jesus is comparing the parable to. The parables function as a form of divine revelation—showing us kingdom realities through narrative comparison, but only those with spiritual insight can truly grasp their meaning. This is why Jesus quotes Isaiah and explains that he speaks in parables partly because "seeing they do not see and hearing they do not hear nor do they understand" (Matthew 13:13). The Doctrine of Election Embedded in Parabolic Teaching Perhaps the most profound insight from this episode is how the very form of Jesus' teaching—not just its content—embodies the doctrine of election. Jesse notes that "every parable then implicitly teaches a doctrine of election," because they reveal spiritual truth to some while concealing it from others. This isn't arbitrary but reflects spiritual realities. The hosts connect this to Jesus' words in Matthew 13:16: "Blessed are your eyes for they see and your ears for they hear." This blessing comes not from intellectual capacity or moral superiority but from God's sovereign grace. Tony describes this as "the blessing in our salvation and in our election that we are enabled to hear and perceive and receive the very voice and word of God into our spirit unto our salvation." The parables thus become a "microcosm" of Reformed doctrines like election, regeneration, and illumination. When believers understand Jesus' parables, they're experiencing the practical outworking of these doctrines in real time. Memorable Quotes "The parables are not just to illustrate a point, they're to reveal a spiritual point or spiritual points to those who have ears to hear, to those who've been illuminated by the spirit." - Tony Arsenal "Jesus is giving this message essentially to all who will listen to him... And so this is like, I love the way that he uses that quote in a slightly different way, but still to express the same root cause, which is some of you here because of your depravity will not be able to hear what I'm saying. But for those to whom it has been granted to come in who are ushered into the kingdom, this kingdom language will make sense." - Jesse Schwamb "But blessed are your eyes for they see and your ears for they hear. There's a blessing in our salvation and in our election that we are enabled to hear and perceive and receive the very voice and word of God into our spirit unto our salvation." - Tony Arsenal About the Hosts Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb are the regular hosts of The Reformed Brotherhood podcast, where they explore Reformed theology and its application to Christian living. With a conversational style that balances depth and accessibility, they seek to make complex theological concepts understandable without sacrificing nuance or biblical fidelity. Transcript [00:00:45] Introduction and New Series Announcement [00:00:45] Jesse Schwamb: Welcome to episode 460 of The Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse. [00:00:54] Tony Arsenal: And I'm Tony. And this is the podcast with ears to hear. Hey brother. [00:00:59] Jesse Schwamb: Hey brother. New series Time, new series. Time for the next seven years that, that's probably correct. It's gonna be a long one. New beginnings are so great, aren't they? And it is. [00:01:10] Jesse Schwamb: We've been hopefully this, well, it's definitely gonna live up to all the hype that we've been presenting about this. It's gonna be good. Everybody's gonna love it. And like I said, it's a topic we haven't done before. It's certainly not in this format. [00:01:23] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And you know what, just, um, as a side note, if you are a listener, which you must be, if you're hearing this, uh, this is a great time to introduce someone to the podcast. [00:01:33] Tony Arsenal: True. Uh, one, because this series is gonna be lit as the kids say, and, uh, it's a new series, so you don't have to have any background. You don't have to have any previous knowledge of the show or of who these two weird guys are to jump in and we're gonna. [00:01:53] Tony Arsenal: Talk about the Bible, which is amazing and awesome. And who doesn't love to talk about the Bible. [00:01:58] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, that's correct. That's what makes these so good. That's how I know, and I could say confidently that this is gonna be all the hype and more. All right, so before we get to affirmations and denials, all the good ProGo, that's part and parcel of our normal episode content. [00:02:12] Jesse Schwamb: Do you want to tell everybody what we're gonna be talking about? [00:02:16] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, I'm excited. [00:02:17] Introducing the Parables Series [00:02:17] Tony Arsenal: So we are gonna work our way through, and this is why I say it's gonna take seven years. We are gonna work our way through all of the parables. Parables, [00:02:25] Jesse Schwamb: the [00:02:25] Tony Arsenal: gospels and just so, um, the Gospel of John doesn't feel left out. [00:02:30] Tony Arsenal: We're gonna talk through some of the I am statements and some of that stuff when we get to John. 'cause John doesn't have a lot of parables. Uh, so we're gonna spend time in the synoptic gospels. We're gonna just walk through the parables one by one. We're taking an episode, sometimes maybe two, sometimes 10, depending on how long the parable is and how deep we get into it. [00:02:47] Tony Arsenal: We're just gonna work our way through. We're gonna take our time. We're gonna enjoy it. So again, this is a great time to start. It's kinda the ground floor on this and you thing. This could really be its own podcast all by itself, right? Uh, so invite a friend, invite some whole bunch of friends. Start a Sunday school class listening to this. [00:03:04] Tony Arsenal: No, don't do that. But people have done that before. But, uh, grab your bibles, get a decent commentary to help prep for the next episode, and, uh, let's, let's do it. I'm super excited. [00:03:14] Jesse Schwamb: When I say para, you say Abel Para, is that how it works? Para? Yeah. I don't know. You can't really divide it. Pairable. If you jam it together, yes. [00:03:24] Jesse Schwamb: You get some of that. You can say, when I say pair, you say Abel p [00:03:27] Tony Arsenal: Abel. [00:03:31] Jesse Schwamb: And you can expect a lot more of that in this series. But before we get into all this good juicy stuff about parables, and by the way, this is like an introductory episode, that doesn't mean that you can just skip it, doesn't mean it's not gonna be good. We gotta set some things up. We wanna talk about parables general generally, but before we have that good general conversation, let's get into our own tradition, which is either affirming with something or denying against something. [00:03:54] Affirmations and Denials [00:03:54] Jesse Schwamb: And so, Tony, what do you got for all of us? [00:03:58] Tony Arsenal: Mine is kind of a, an ecclesial, ecclesiastical denial. Mm-hmm. Um, this is sort of niche, but I feel like our audience may have heard about it. And there's this dust up that I, I noticed online, uh, really just this last week. Um, it's kind of a specific thing. There is a church, uh, I'm not sure where the church is. [00:04:18] Tony Arsenal: It's a PCA church, I believe it's called Mosaic. The pastor of the church, the teaching elder, one of the teaching elders just announced that he was, uh, leaving his ministry to, uh, join the Roman Catholic Church, which, yes, there's its own denial built into that. We are good old Protestant reformed folks, and I personally would, would stick with the original Westminster on the, the Pope being antichrist. [00:04:45] Tony Arsenal: But, um, that's not the denial. The denial is that in this particular church. For some unknown reason. Uh, the pastor who has now since a announced that he was leaving to, uh, to convert to Roman Catholicism, continued to preach the sermon and then administered the Lord's supper, even though he in the eyes, I think of most. [00:05:08] Tony Arsenal: Reformed folk and certainly historically in the eyes of the reformed position was basically apostate, uh, right in front of the congregation's eyes. Now, I don't know that I would necessarily put it that strongly. I think there are plenty of genuine born again Christians who find themselves in, in the Roman Catholic, uh, church. [00:05:27] Tony Arsenal: Uh, but to allow someone who is one resigning the ministry right in front of your eyes. Um, and then resigning to basically leave for another tradition that, that the PCA would not recognize, would not share ecclesiastical, uh, credentials with or accept their ordination or any of those things. Um, to then just allow him to admit, you know, to administer the Lord's Supper, I think is just a drastic miscarriage of, uh, ecclesiastical justice. [00:05:54] Tony Arsenal: I dunno if that's the right word. So I'm just denying this like. It shows that on a couple things like this, this. Church this session, who obviously knew this was coming. Um, this session does either, does not take seriously the differences between Roman Catholic theology and Protestant theology, particularly reformed theology, or they don't take seriously the, the gravity of the Lord's supper and who should and shouldn't be administering it. [00:06:22] Tony Arsenal: They can't take both of those things seriously and have a fully or biblical position on it. So there's a good opportunity for us to think through our ecclesiology, to think through our sacrament and how this applies. It just really doesn't sit well and it's not sitting well with a lot of people online, obviously. [00:06:37] Tony Arsenal: Um, and I'm sure there'll be all sorts of, like letters of concern sent to presbytery and, and all that stuff, and, and it'll all shake out in the wash eventually, but just, it just wasn't good. Just doesn't sit right. [00:06:48] Jesse Schwamb: You know, it strikes me of all the denominations. I'm not saying this pejoratively. I just think it is kind of interesting and funny to me that the Presbyterians love a letter writing campaign. [00:06:56] Jesse Schwamb: Like that's kind of the jam, the love, a good letter writing campaign. [00:07:00] Tony Arsenal: It's true, although it's, it's actually functional in Presbyterianism because That's right. That's how you voice your concern. It's not a, not a, a rage letter into the void. It actually goes somewhere and gets recorded and has to be addressed at presbytery if you have standing. [00:07:17] Tony Arsenal: So there's, there's a good reason to do that, and I'm sure that that will be done. I'm sure there are many. Probably ministers in the PCA who are aware of this, who are either actually considering filing charges or um, or writing such letters of complaints. And there's all sorts of mechanisms in the PCA to, to adjudicate and resolve and to investigate these kinds of things. [00:07:37] Jesse Schwamb: And I'd like to, if you're, if you're a true Presbyterian and, and in this instance, I'm not making light of this instance, but this instance are others, you. Feel compelled by a strong conviction to write such a letter that really you should do it with a quill, an ink. Like that's the ultimate way. I think handwritten with like a nice fountain pen. [00:07:54] Jesse Schwamb: There's not, yeah. I mean, you know what I'm saying? Like that's, that is a weighty letter right there. Like it's cut to Paul being like, I write this postscript in my own hand with these big letters. Yeah, it's like, you know, some original Presbyterian letter writing right there. [00:08:07] Tony Arsenal: And then you gotta seal it with wax with your signe ring. [00:08:10] Tony Arsenal: So, and send it by a carrier, by a messenger series of me messengers. [00:08:14] Jesse Schwamb: Think if you receive any letter in the mail, handwritten to you. Like for real, somebody painstakingly going through in script like spencerian script, you know, if you're using English characters writing up and then sealing that bad boy with wax, you're gonna be like, this is important. [00:08:30] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, this, even if it's just like, Hey, what's up? Yeah, you're gonna be like, look at this incredible, weighty document I've received. [00:08:36] Tony Arsenal: It's true. It's very true. I love it. Well, that's all I have to say about that to channel a little Forrest Gump there. Uh, Jesse, what are you affirming or denying tonight? [00:08:44] Jesse Schwamb: I'm also going to deny against, so this denial is like classic. [00:08:49] Jesse Schwamb: It's routine, but I got a different spin on it this time, so I'm denying against. The full corruption of sin, how it appears everywhere, how even unbelievers speak of it, almost unwittingly, but very commonly with great acceptance. And the particularity of this denial comes in the form of allergies, which you and I are talking about a lot of times. [00:09:09] Jesse Schwamb: But I was just thinking about this week because I had to do some allergy testing, which is a, a super fun experience. But it just got me think again, like very plainly about what allergies are. And how an allergy occurs when your immune system, like the part of your body responsible for protecting your body that God has made when your immune system mistakes like a non-harmful substance like pollen or a food or some kind of animal dander for a threat, and then reacts by producing these antibodies like primarily the immunoglobulin E. [00:09:36] Jesse Schwamb: So here's what strikes me as so funny about this in a, in a way that we must laugh. Because of our, our parents, our first parents who made a horrible decision and we like them, would make the same decision every day and twice in the Lord's day. And that is that this seems like, of course, such a clear sign of the corruption of sin impounded in our created order because it seems a really distasteful and suboptimal for human beings to have this kind of response to pollen. [00:10:03] Jesse Schwamb: When they were intended to work and care in a garden. So obviously I think we can say, Hey, like the fact that allergies exist and that it's your body making a mistake. [00:10:13] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. [00:10:13] Jesse Schwamb: It's like the ultimate, like cellular level of the ubiquity of sin. And so as I was speaking with my doctor and going through the, the testing, it's just so funny how like we all talk about this. [00:10:25] Jesse Schwamb: It's like, yeah, it's, it's a really over-indexed reaction. It doesn't make any sense. It's not the way the world is supposed to be, but nobody's saying how is the world supposed to be? Do you know what I mean? Like, but we just take it for granted that that kind of inflammation that comes from like your dog or like these particles in the air of plants, just trying to do a plant stew and reproduce and pollinate that, that could cause like really dramatic and debilitating. [00:10:49] Jesse Schwamb: Responses is just exceptional to me, and I think it's exceptional and exceptional to all of us because at some deep level we recognize that, as Paul says, like the earth, the entire world is groaning. It's groaning for that eschatological release and redemption that can only come from Christ. And our runny noses in our hay fever all prove that to some degree. [00:11:09] Jesse Schwamb: So denying against allergies, but denying against as well that ubiquity of corruption and sin in our world. [00:11:15] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, I just have this image in my head of Adam and Eve, you know, they're expelled outta the garden and they, they're working the ground. And then Adam sneezes. Yes. And Eve is like, did your head just explode? [00:11:28] Tony Arsenal: And he's like, I don't know. That would've been a, probably a pretty terrifying experience actually. [00:11:33] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, that's that's true. So imagine like you and I have talked about this before, because you have young children, adorable. Young children, and we've talked about like the first of everything, like when you're a child, you get sick for the first time, or you get the flu or you vomit for the first time. [00:11:45] Jesse Schwamb: Like you have no idea what's going on in your body, but imagine that. But being an adult. [00:11:49] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, where you can process what's going on, but don't have a framework for it. [00:11:52] Jesse Schwamb: Yes, exactly. So like [00:11:54] Tony Arsenal: that's like, that's like my worst nightmare I think. [00:11:55] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. It's like, to your point, 'cause there, there are a lot of experiences you have as an adults, even health wise that are still super strange and weird. [00:12:01] Jesse Schwamb: But [00:12:02] Tony Arsenal: yeah, [00:12:02] Jesse Schwamb: you have some rubric for them, but that's kind of exactly what I was thinking. What if this toiling over your labor is partly because it's horrible now because you have itchy, watery eyes or you get hives. Yeah. And before you were like, I could just lay in the grass and be totally fine. And now I can't even walk by ragweed without getting a headache or having some kind of weird fatigue. [00:12:23] Jesse Schwamb: Like I have to believe that that was, that part of this transition was all of these things. Like, now your body's gonna overreact to stuff where I, I, God put us in a place where that wouldn't be the case at all. [00:12:35] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Sometimes I think about like the first. Time that Adam was like sore or like hurt himself. [00:12:42] Tony Arsenal: True. Like the, just the, just the terror and fear that must have come with it. And sin is serious stuff. Like it's serious effects and sad, sad, sad stuff. But yeah, allergies are the worst. I, uh, I suffered really badly with, uh, seasonal allergies. When I was a a kid I had to do allergy shots and everything and it's makes no sense. [00:13:03] Tony Arsenal: There's no rhyme or reason to it, and your allergies change. So like you could be going your whole life, being able to eat strawberries and then all of a sudden you can't. Right? And it's, and you don't know until it happens. So [00:13:14] Jesse Schwamb: what's up with that? [00:13:15] Tony Arsenal: No good. [00:13:16] Jesse Schwamb: What's up with that? So again, imagine that little experience is a microcosmic example of what happens to Adam and Eve. [00:13:24] Jesse Schwamb: You know, like all these things change. Like you're, you're right. Suddenly your body isn't the same. It's not just because you're growing older, but because guess what? Sins everywhere. And guess what, where sin is, even in the midst of who you are as physically constructed and the environment in which you live, all, all totally change. [00:13:40] Jesse Schwamb: So that, that's enough of my rants on allergies. I know the, I know the loved ones out there hear me. It's also remarkable to me that almost everybody has an allergy of some kind. It's very, it's very rare if you don't have any allergies whatsoever. And probably those times when you think you're sick and you don't have allergies could be that you actually have them. [00:13:57] Jesse Schwamb: So it's just wild. Wild. [00:14:02] Tony Arsenal: Agreed. Agreed. [00:14:03] Theological Discussion on Parables [00:14:03] Tony Arsenal: Well, Jesse, without further ado, I'm not, I, maybe we should have further ado, but let's get into it. Let's talk about some parable stuff. [00:14:13] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, let's do it again. When I say pair, you say able pair. [00:14:17] Tony Arsenal: Able. [00:14:20] Jesse Schwamb: When I say [00:14:21] Tony Arsenal: para you say bowl. [00:14:24] Jesse Schwamb: That's what I was trying to go with before. [00:14:26] Jesse Schwamb: It's a little bit more, yeah, but you gotta like cross over like we both gotta say like that middle syllable kind of. Otherwise it's, it sounds like I'm just saying bowl. And [00:14:34] Tony Arsenal: yeah, there's no good way to chant that. Yeah, we're work. This is why Jesse and I are not cheerleaders. [00:14:39] Jesse Schwamb: We're, we're work shopping everybody. [00:14:40] Jesse Schwamb: But I agree with you. Enough of us talking about affirmations, the denials in this case, the double double denial. Let's talk about parables. So the beauty of this whole series is there's gonna be so much great stuff to talk about, and I think this is a decent topic for us to cover because. Really, if you think about it, the parables of Jesus have captivated people for the entirety of the scriptures. [00:15:06] Jesse Schwamb: As long, as long as they were recorded and have been read and processed and studied together. And, uh, you know, there's stuff I'm sure that we will just gloss over. We don't need to get into in terms of like, is it pure allegory? Is it always allegory? Is it, there's lots of interpretation here. I think this is gonna be our way of processing together and moving through some of these and speaking them out and trying to learn principally. [00:15:28] Jesse Schwamb: Predominantly what they're teaching us. But I say all that because characters like the prodigal son, like Good Samaritan, Pharisees, and tax collector, those actually have become well known even outside the church. [00:15:40] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. And [00:15:40] Jesse Schwamb: then sometimes inside the church there's over familiarity with all of these, and that leads to its own kind of misunderstanding. [00:15:46] Jesse Schwamb: So, and I think as well. I'm hoping that myself, you and our listeners will be able to hear them in a new way, and maybe if we can try to do this without again, being parabolic, is that we can kind of recreate some of the trauma. In these stories. 'cause Jesus is, is pressing upon very certain things and there's certainly a lot of trauma that his original audiences would've taken away from what he was saying here. [00:16:13] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. Even just starting with what is a parable and why is Jesus telling them? So I presume that's actually the best place for us to begin is what's the deal with the parables and why is this? Is this Jesus preferred way of teaching about the kingdom of God. [00:16:30] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, and I think, you know, it bears saying too that like not all the parables are alike. [00:16:35] Tony Arsenal: Like true. We can't, this is why I'm excited about this series. You know, it's always good to talk through the bible and, and or to talk through systematic theology, but what really excites me is when we do a series like this, kind of like the Scott's Confession series, like it gives us a reason. To think through a lot of different disciplines and flex like exercise and stretch and flex a lot of different kinds of intellectual muscles. [00:17:00] Tony Arsenal: So there's gonna be some exegetical work we have to do. There's gonna be some hermeneutical work we're gonna have to do, probably have to do some historical work about how the parables have been interpreted in different ways. Yes, and and I think, so, I think it's important to say like, not every parable is exactly the same. [00:17:14] Tony Arsenal: And this is where I think like when you read, sometimes you read books about the, the parables of Christ. Like you, you'll hear one guy say. Well, a parable is not an allegory. Then you'll hear another guy say like, well, parables might have allegorical elements to it. Right. Now if one guy say like, well, a parable has one main point, and you'll have another guy say like, well, no, actually, like parables can have multiple points and multiple shades of meaning. [00:17:37] Tony Arsenal: And I think the answer to why you have this variance in the commentaries is 'cause sometimes the parables are alleg. [00:17:44] Jesse Schwamb: Right. And [00:17:44] Tony Arsenal: sometimes they're not allegorical. Sometimes they have one main point. Sometimes there's multiple points. So I think it's important for us to just acknowledge like we're gonna have to come to each parable, um, on its own and on its own terms. [00:17:57] Tony Arsenal: But there are some general principles that I think we can talk about what parables are. So parables in general are. Figurative stories or figurative accounts that are used to illustrate, I think primarily used to illustrate a single main point. And there may be some subpoints, but they, they're generally intended to, uh, to illustrate something by way of a, of a narrative, a fictional narrative that, uh, helps the reader. [00:18:27] Tony Arsenal: Uh, or the hearer is just, it's also important that these were primarily heard, these are heard parables, so there are even times where the phrasing of the language is important in the parable. Um, they're helping the, the hearer to understand spiritual truth. And this is where I think it's it's key, is that this is not just. [00:18:48] Tony Arsenal: When we're talking about the parables of Christ, right? There's people tell parables, there's all sorts of different teachers that have used parables. Um, I, I do parables on the show from time to time where I'll tell like a little made up story about a, you know, a situation. I'll say like, pretend, you know, let's imagine you have this guy and he's doing this thing that's a form of a parable when I'm using. [00:19:08] Tony Arsenal: I'm not, it's not like a makeup made up story. It's not asaps fables. We're not talking about like talking foxes and hens and stuff, but it's illustrating a point. But the parables of Christ are not just to illustrate a point, they're to reveal a spiritual point or spiritual points to those who have ears to hear, to those who've been illuminated by the spirit. [00:19:29] Tony Arsenal: And I just wanna read this. Uh, this is just God's providence, um, in action. I, um, I've fallen behind on my reading in The Daily Dad, which is a Ryan Holiday book. This was the reading that came up today, even though it's not the correct reading for the day. Uh, it's, it's for September 2nd. We're recording this on September, uh, sixth. [00:19:48] Tony Arsenal: Uh, and the title is, this is How You Teach Them. And the first line says, if the Bible has any indication, Jesus rarely seemed to come out and say what he meant. He preferred instead to employ parables and stories and little anecdotes that make you think. He tells stories of the servants and the talents. [00:20:03] Tony Arsenal: He tells stories of the prodigal son and the Good Samaritan. Turns out it's pretty effective to get a point across and make it stick. What what we're gonna learn. Actually that Jesus tells these stories in parables, in part to teach those who have spiritual ears to hear, but in part to mask the truth That's right. [00:20:24] Tony Arsenal: From those who don't have spiritual ears to hear, oh, online [00:20:26] Jesse Schwamb: holiday. [00:20:27] Tony Arsenal: So it's not as simple as like Jesus, using illustration to help make something complicated, clearer, right? Yes. But also, no. So I'm super excited to kind of get into this stuff and talk through it and to, to really dig into the parables themselves. [00:20:42] Tony Arsenal: It's just gonna be a really good exercise at sort of sitting at the feet of our master in his really, his preferred mode of teaching. Um, you know, other than the sermon on the Mount. There's not a lot of like long form, straightforward, didactic teaching like that most of Christ's teaching as recorded in the gospels, comes in the form of these parables in one way or another. [00:21:03] Tony Arsenal: Right. And that's pretty exciting to me. [00:21:05] Jesse Schwamb: Right. And there's so many more parables I think, than we often understand there to be, or at least then that we see in like the headings are Bible, which of course have been put there by our own construction. So anytime you get that. Nice short, metaphorical narrative is really Jesus speaking in a kind of parable form, and I think you're right on. [00:21:25] Jesse Schwamb: For me, it's always highlighting some kind of aspect of the kingdom of God. And I'd say there is generally a hierarchy. There doesn't have to be like a single point, like you said. There could be other points around that. But if you get into this place where like everything has some kind of allegory representation, then the parable seems to die of the death of like a million paper cuts, right? [00:21:40] Jesse Schwamb: Because you're trying to figure out all the things and if you have to represent something, everything he says with some kind of. Heavy spiritual principle gets kind of weird very quickly. But in each of these, as you said, what's common in my understanding is it's presenting like a series of events involving like a small number of characters. [00:21:57] Jesse Schwamb: It is bite-sized and sometimes those are people or plants or even like inanimate objects. So like the, yeah, like you said, the breadth and scope of how Jesus uses the metaphor is brilliant teaching, and it's even more brilliant when you get to that level, like you're saying, where it's meant both to illuminate. [00:22:13] Jesse Schwamb: To obfuscate. That is like, to me, the parable is a manifestation of election because it's clear that Jesus is using this. Those who have the ears to hear are the ones whom the Holy Spirit has unstopped, has opened the eyes, has illuminated the hearts and the mind to such a degree that can receive these, and that now these words are resonant. [00:22:32] Jesse Schwamb: So like what a blessing that we can understand them, that God has essentially. Use this parabolic teaching in such a way to bring forward his concept of election in the minds and the hearts of those who are his children. And it's kind of a way, this is kind of like the secret Christian handshake. It's the speakeasy of salvation. [00:22:52] Jesse Schwamb: It's, it's coming into the fold because God has invited you in and given you. The knowledge and ability of which to really understand these things. And so most of these little characters seemed realistic and resonant in Jesus' world, and that's why sometimes we do need a little bit of studying and understanding the proper context for all those things. [00:23:12] Jesse Schwamb: I would say as well, like at least one element in those parables is a push. It's in, it's kind of taking it and hyping it up. It's pushing the boundaries of what's plausible, and so you'll find that all of this is made again to illuminate some principle of the kingdom of God. And we should probably go to the thing that you intimated, because when you read that quote from, from Ryan Holiday, I was like, yes, my man. [00:23:34] Jesse Schwamb: Like he's on the right track. Right? There's something about what he's saying that is partially correct, but like you said, a lot of times people mistake the fact that, well, Jesus. Is using this language and these metaphors, these similes, he speaks in parables because they were the best way to get like these uneducated people to understand him. [00:23:57] Jesse Schwamb: Right? But it's actually the exact opposite. And we know this because of perhaps the most famous dialogue and expression and explanation of parables, which comes to us in Matthew 13, 10 through 17, where Jesus explains to his disciples exactly why he uses this mode of teaching. And what he says is. This is why I speak to them of parables because seeing they do not see and hearing, they do not hear they nor do they understand. [00:24:24] Jesse Schwamb: So, so that's perplexing. We should probably camp there for just a second and talk about that. Right, and, and like really unpack like, what is Jesus after here? Then if, like, before we get into like, what do all these things mean, it's almost like saying. We need to understand why they're even set before us and why these in some ways are like a kind of a small stumbling block to others, but then this great stone of appreciation and one to stand on for for others. [00:24:47] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, and I think you know, before we, before we cover that, which I think is a good next spot. A parable is not just an illustration. Like I think that's where a lot of people go a little bit sideways, is they think that this is effectively, like it's a fable. It's like a made up story primarily to like illustrate a point right. [00:25:09] Tony Arsenal: Or an allegory where you know, you're taking individual components and they represent something else. A parable fundamentally is a, is a, a comparison between two things, right? The word parable comes from the Greek of casting alongside, and so the idea is like you're, you're taking. The reality that you're trying to articulate and you're setting up this parable next to it and you're comparing them to it. [00:25:33] Tony Arsenal: And so I like to use the word simile, like that's why Christ says like the kingdom of God is like this. Yes. It's not like I'm gonna explain the kingdom of God to you by using this made up story. Right on. It's I'm gonna compare the kingdom of God to this thing or this story that I'm having, and so we should be. [00:25:49] Tony Arsenal: Rather than trying to like find the principles of the parable, we should be looking at it and going, how does this parable reflect? Or how is this a, um, how is this an explanation? Not in the, like, I, I'm struggling to even explain this here. It's not that the cer, the parable is just illustrating a principle. [00:26:10] Tony Arsenal: It's that the kingdom of God is one thing and the parable reveals that same one thing by way of comparison. Yes. So like. Uh, we'll get into the specifics, obviously, but when the, when the, um, lawyer says, who is my neighbor? Well, it's not just like, well, let's look at the Good Samaritan. And the Good Samaritan represents this, and the Levite represents this, and the priest represents this. [00:26:32] Tony Arsenal: It's a good neighbor, is this thing. It's this story. Compared to whatever you have in your mind of what a good neighbor is. And we're gonna bounce those things up against each other, and that's gonna somehow show us what the, what the reality is. And that's why I think to get back to where we were, that's why I think sometimes the parables actually obscure the truth. [00:26:53] Tony Arsenal: Because if we're not comparing the parable to the reality of something, then we're gonna get the parable wrong. So if we think that, um, the Good Samaritan. Is a parable about social justice and we're, we're looking at it to try to understand how do we treat, you know, the, the poor people in Africa who don't have food or the war torn refugees, you know, coming out of Ukraine. [00:27:19] Tony Arsenal: If we're looking at it primarily as like, I need to learn to be a good neighbor to those who are destitute. Uh, we're not comparing it against what Jesus was comparing it against, right? So, so we have to understand, we have to start in a lot of cases with the question that the parable is a response to, which oftentimes the parable is a response to a question or it's a, it's a principle that's being, um, compare it against if we get that first step wrong, uh, or if we start with our own presuppositions, which is why. [00:27:50] Tony Arsenal: Partially why I think Christ is saying like, the only those who have ears to hear. Like if you don't have a spiritual presupposition, I, I mean that, that might not be the right word, but like if you're not starting from the place of spiritual illumination, not in the weird gnostic sense, but in the, the. [00:28:07] Tony Arsenal: Genuinely Christian illumination of the Holy Spirit and inward testimony of the Holy Spirit. If you're not starting from that perspective, you almost can't get the parables right. So that's why we see like the opponents of Christ in the Bible, the Pharisees, the Sadducees, constantly. They're constantly confused and they're getting it wrong. [00:28:26] Tony Arsenal: And, and even sometimes the disciples, they have to go and ask sometimes too, what is this parable? Wow, that's right. What is, what does this mean? So it's never as simple as, as what's directly on the surface, but it's also not usually as complicated as we would make it be if we were trying to over-interpret the parable, which I think is another risk. [00:28:44] Jesse Schwamb: That's the genius, isn't it? Is that I I like what you're saying. It's that spiritual predisposition that allows us to receive the word and, and when we receive that word, it is a simple word. It's not as if like, we have to elevate ourselves in place of this high learning or education or philosophizing, and that's the beauty of it. [00:29:03] Jesse Schwamb: So it is, again, God's setting apart for himself A, a people a teaching. So. But I think this is, it is a little bit perplexing at first, like that statement from Jesus because it's a bit like somebody coming to you, like your place of work or anywhere else in your family life and asking you explicitly for instruction and, and then you saying something like, listen, I, I'm gonna show you, but you're not gonna be able to see it. [00:29:22] Jesse Schwamb: And you're gonna, I'm gonna tell you, but you're not gonna be able to hear it, and I'm gonna explain it to you, but you're not gonna be able to understand. And you're like, okay. So yeah, what's the point of you talking to me then? So it's clear, like you said that Jesus. Is teaching that the secrets, and that's really, really what these are. [00:29:37] The Secrets of the Kingdom of God [00:29:37] Jesse Schwamb: It's brilliant and beautiful that Jesus would, that the, the son of God and God himself would tell us the secrets of his kingdom. But that again, first of all by saying it's a secret, means it's, it's for somebody to guard and to hold knowledge closely and that it is protected. So he says, teaching like the secrets of the kingdom of God are unknowable through mere human reasoning and intuition. [00:29:56] Jesse Schwamb: Interestingly here though, Jesus is also saying that. He's, it's not like he's saying no one can ever understand the parables, right, or that he intends to hide their truth from all people. [00:30:07] Understanding Parables and God's Sovereign Grace [00:30:07] Jesse Schwamb: Instead, he just explains that in order to highlight God's sovereign grace, God in his mercy has enlightened some to whom it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven. [00:30:17] Jesse Schwamb: That's verse 11. So. All of us as his children who have been illuminated can understand the truth of God's kingdom. That is wild and and that is amazing. So that this knowledge goes out and just like we talk about the scripture going out and never returning void, here's a prime example of that very thing that there is a condemnation and not being able to understand. [00:30:37] Jesse Schwamb: That condemnation comes not because you're not intelligent enough, but because as you said, you do not have that predisposition. You do not have that changed heart into the ability to understand these things. [00:30:47] Doctrine of Election and Spiritual Insight [00:30:47] Jesse Schwamb: This is what leads me here to say like every parable then implicitly teaches a doctrine of election. [00:30:53] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, because all people are outside the kingdom until they enter the Lord's teaching. How do we enter the Lord's teaching by being given ears to hear. How are we understanding that? We have been given ears to hear when these parables speak to us in the spiritual reality as well as in just like you said, like this general kind of like in the way that I presume Ryan Holiday means it. [00:31:12] Jesse Schwamb: The, this is like, he might be exemplifying the fact that these stories. Are a really great form of the ability to communicate complex information or to make you think. [00:31:21] The Power and Purpose of Parables [00:31:21] Jesse Schwamb: So when Jesus says something like The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed, wow, we, you and I will probably spend like two episodes just unpacking that, or we could spend a lot more, that's beautiful that that's how his teaching takes place. [00:31:34] Jesse Schwamb: But of course it's, it's so much. More than that, that those in whom the teaching is effective on a salvation somehow understand it, and their understanding of it becomes first because Christ is implanted within them. Salvation. [00:31:46] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. [00:31:48] Parables as More Than Simple Teaching Tools [00:31:48] Tony Arsenal: I think people, and this is what I think like Ryan Holiday's statement reflects, is people think of the parables as a simple teaching tool to break down a complicated subject. [00:32:00] Tony Arsenal: Yes. And so, like if I was trying to explain podcasting to a, like a five-year-old, I would say something like, well, you know. You know how your teacher teaches you during class while a podcast is like if your teacher lived on the internet and you could access your teacher anytime. Like, that might be a weird explanation, but like that's taking a very complicated thing about recording and and RSS feeds and you know, all of these different elements that go into what podcasting is and breaking it down to a simple sub that is not what a parable is. [00:32:30] Tony Arsenal: Right? Right. A parable is not. Just breaking a simple subject down and illustrating it by way of like a, a clever comparison. Um, you know, it's not like someone trying to explain the doctrine of, of the Trinity by using clever analogies or something like that. Even if that were reasonable and impossible. [00:32:50] Tony Arsenal: It's, it's not like that a parable. I like what you're saying about it being kind of like a mini doctrine of election. It's also a mini doctrine of the Bible. Yes. Right. It, it's right on. [00:33:00] The Doctrine of Illumination [00:33:00] Tony Arsenal: It's, it's the doctrine of revelation. In. Preached form in the Ministry of Christ, right? As Christians, we have this text and we affirm that at the same time, uh, what can be known of it and what is necessary for salvation can be known. [00:33:19] Tony Arsenal: By ordinary means like Bart Iman, an avowed atheist who I, I think like all atheists, whether they recognize it or not, hates God. He can read the Bible and understand that what it means is that if you trust Jesus, you'll be saved. You don't need special spiritual insight to understand that that is what the Bible teaches, where the special spiritual. [00:33:42] Tony Arsenal: Insight might not be the right word, but the special spiritual appropriation is that the spirit enables you to receive that unto your salvation. Right? To put your trust in. The reality of that, and we call that doctrine, the doctrine of illumination. And so in, in the sense of parables in Christ's ministry, and this is, this is if you, you know, like what do I always say is just read a little bit more, um, the portion Jesse read it leads way into this prophecy or in this comment, Christ. [00:34:10] Tony Arsenal: Saying he teaches in parable in order to fulfill this prophecy of Isaiah. Basically that like those who are, uh, ate and are apart from God and are resistant to God, these parables there are there in order to confirm that they are. And then it says in verse 16, and this is, this is. [00:34:27] The Blessing of Spiritual Understanding [00:34:27] Tony Arsenal: It always seems like the series that we do ends up with like a theme verse, and this is probably the one verse 16 here, Matthew 1316 says, but blessed are your eyes for they see and your ears for they hear. [00:34:40] Tony Arsenal: And so like there's a blessing. In our salvation and in our election that we are enabled to hear and perceive and re receive the very voice and word of God into our spirit unto our salvation. That is the doctrine of of election. It's also the doctrine of regeneration, the doctrine of sanctification, the doctrine. [00:35:03] Tony Arsenal: I mean, there's all of these different classic reformed doctrines that the parables really are these mic this microcosm of that. Almost like applied in the Ministry of Christ. Right. Which I, I, you know, I've, I've never really thought of it in depth in that way before, but it's absolutely true and it's super exciting to be able to sort of embark on this, uh, on this series journey with, with this group. [00:35:28] Tony Arsenal: I think it's gonna be so good to just dig into these and really, really hear the gospel preached to ourselves through these parables. That's what I'm looking forward to. [00:35:38] Jesse Schwamb: And we're used to being very. Close with the idea that like the message contains the doctrine, the message contains the power. Here we're saying, I think it's both. [00:35:47] Jesse Schwamb: And the mode of that message also contains, the doctrine also contains the power. And I like where you're going with this because I think what we should be reminding ourselves. Is what a blessing it is to have this kind of information conferred to us. [00:36:01] The Role of Parables in Revealing and Concealing Truth [00:36:01] Jesse Schwamb: That again, God has taken, what is the secrets that is his to disclose and his to keep and his to hold, and he's made it available to his children. [00:36:08] Jesse Schwamb: And part of that is for, as you said, like the strengthening of our own faith. It's also for condemnation. So notice that. The hiding of the kingdom through parables is not a consequence of the teaching itself. Again, this goes back to like the mode being as equally important here as the message itself that Christ's teaching is not too difficult to comprehend as an intellectual matter. [00:36:27] Jesse Schwamb: The thing is, like even today, many unbelievers read the gospels and they technically understand what Jesus means in his teaching, especially these parables. The problem is. I would say like moral hardness. It's that lack of spiritual predilection or predisposition. They know what Jesus teaches, but they do not believe. [00:36:47] Jesse Schwamb: And so the challenge before us is as all scripture reading, that we would go before the Holy Spirit and say, holy Spirit, help me to believe. Help me to understand what to believe. And it so doing, do the work of God, which is to believe in him and to believe in His son Jesus Christ and what he's accomplished. [00:37:02] Jesse Schwamb: So the parables are not like creating. Fresh unbelief and sinners instead, like they're confirming the opposition that's already present and apart from Grace, unregenerate perversely use our Lord's teaching to increase their resistance. That's how it's set up. That's how it works. That's why to be on the inside, as it were, not again, because like we've done the right handshake or met all the right standards, but because of the blood of Christ means that the disciples, the first disciples and all the disciples who will follow after them on the other hand. [00:37:33] The Complexity and Nuances of Parables [00:37:33] Jesse Schwamb: We've been granted these eyes to see, and ears to hear Jesus. And then we've been given the secrets of the kingdom. I mean, that's literally what we've been given. And God's mercy has been extended to the disciples who like many in the crowds, once ignorantly and stubbornly rejected God and us just like them as well in both accounts. [00:37:49] Jesse Schwamb: So this is, I think we need to settle on that. You're right, throughout this series, what a blessing. It's not meant to be a great labor or an effort for the child of God. Instead, it's meant to be a way of exploring these fe. Fantastic truths of who God is and what he's done in such a way that draw us in. [00:38:07] Jesse Schwamb: So that whether we're analyzing again, like the the lost coin or the lost sheep, or. Any number of these amazing parables, you'll notice that they draw us in because they don't give us answers in the explicit sense that we're used to. Like didactically instead. Yeah. They cause us to consider, as you've already said, Tony, like what does it mean to be lost? [00:38:26] Jesse Schwamb: What does it mean that the father comes running for this prodigal son? What does it mean that the older brother has a beef with the whole situation? What does it mean when Jesus says that the kingdom of God is like a mustard seed? How much do we know about mustard seeds? And why would he say that? Again, this is a kind of interesting teaching, but that illumination in the midst of it being, I don't wanna say ambiguous, but open-ended to a degree means that the Holy Spirit must come in and give us that kind of grand knowledge. [00:38:55] Jesse Schwamb: But more than that, believe upon what Jesus is saying. I think that's the critical thing, is somebody will say, well, aren't the teaching simple and therefore easy to understand. In a sense, yes. Like factually yes, but in a much greater sense. Absolutely not. And that's why I think it's so beautiful that he quotes Isaiah there because in that original context, you the, you know, you have God delivering a message through Isaiah. [00:39:17] Jesse Schwamb: Uh. The people are very clear. Like, we just don't believe you're a prophet of God. And like what you're saying is ridiculous, right? And we just don't wanna hear you. This is very different than that. This is, Jesus is giving this message essentially to all who will listen to him, not necessarily hear, but all, all who are hear Him, I guess rather, but not necessarily all who are listening with those spiritual ears. [00:39:33] Jesse Schwamb: And so this is like, I love the way that he, he uses that quote in a slightly different way, but still to express the same root cause, which is some of you here. Because of your depravity will not be able to hear what I'm saying. But for those to whom it has been granted to come in who are ushered into the kingdom, this kingdom language will make sense. [00:39:54] Jesse Schwamb: It's like, I'm going to be speaking to you in code and half of you have the key for all the code because the Holy Spirit is your cipher and half of you don't. And you're gonna, you're gonna listen to the same thing, but you will hear very different things. [00:40:06] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And you know, the other thing I think is, is interesting to ponder on this, um. [00:40:12] The Importance of Context in Interpreting Parables [00:40:12] Tony Arsenal: God always accommodates his revelation to his people. And the parables are, are, are like the. Accommodated accommodation. Yeah. Like God accommodates himself to those he chooses to reveal himself to. And in some ways this is, this is, um, the human ministry of Christ is him accommodating himself to those. [00:40:38] Tony Arsenal: What I mean is in the human ministry of the Son, the parables are a way of the son accommodating himself to those he chooses to reveal himself to. So there, there are instances. Where the parable is said, and it is, uh, it's seems to be more or less understood by everybody. Nobody asks the question about like, what does this mean? [00:40:57] Tony Arsenal: Right? And then there are instances where the parable is said, and even the apostles are, or the disciples are like, what does this parable mean? And then there's some interesting ones where like. Christ's enemies understand the parable and, and can understand that the parable is told against them. About them. [00:41:13] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. So there, there's all these different nuances to why Christ used these parables, how simple they were, how complicated they were. Yes. And again, I think that underscores what I said at the top of the show here. It's like you can't treat every parable exactly the same. And that's where you run into trouble. [00:41:28] Tony Arsenal: Like if you're, if you're coming at them, like they're all just simple allegory. Again, like some of them have allegorical elements. I think it's fair to look at the, the prodigal son or the, the prodigal father, however you want to title that. And remember, the titles are not, generally, the titles are not, um, baked into the text itself. [00:41:46] Tony Arsenal: I think it's fair to come to that and look at and go, okay, well, who's the father in this? Who's the son? You know, what does it mean that the older son is this? Is, is there relevance to the fact that there's a party and that the, you know, the older, older, uh, son is not a part of it? There's, there's some legitimacy to that. [00:42:02] Tony Arsenal: And when we look at Christ's own explanation of some of his parables, he uses those kinds, right? The, the good seed is this, the, the seed that fell on the, the side of the road is this, right? The seed that got choked out by the, the, um, thorns is this, but then there are others where it doesn't make sense to pull it apart, element by element. [00:42:21] Tony Arsenal: Mm-hmm. Um, and, and the other thing is there are some things that we're gonna look at that are, um. We're gonna treat as parables that the text doesn't call a parable. And then there are some that you might even look at that sometimes the text calls a parable that we might not even think of as a normal parable, right? [00:42:38] Tony Arsenal: So there's lots of elements. This is gonna be really fun to just dig stuff in and, and sort of pick it, like pull it apart and look at its component parts and constituent parts. Um, so I really do mean it if you, if you're the kind of person who has never picked up a Bible commentary. This would be a good time to, to start because these can get difficult. [00:42:59] Tony Arsenal: They can get complicated. You want to have a trusted guide, and Jesse and I are gonna do our, our work and our research on this. Um, but you want someone who's more of a trusted guide than us. This is gonna be the one time that I might actually say Calvin's commentaries are not the most helpful. And the reason for that is not because Calvin's not clear on this stuff. [00:43:17] Tony Arsenal: Calvin Calvin's commentaries on the gospel is, is a harmony of the gospels, right? So sometimes it's tricky when you're reading it to try to find like a specific, uh, passage in Matthew because you're, you, everything's interwoven. So something like Matthew Henry, um, or something like, um, Matthew Poole. Uh, might be helpful if you're willing to spend a little bit of money. [00:43:38] Tony Arsenal: The ESV expository commentary that I've referenced before is a good option. Um, but try to find something that's approachable and usable that is reasonable for you to work through the commentary alongside of us, because you are gonna want to spend time reading these on your own, and you're gonna want to, like I said, you're gonna want to have a trust guide with you. [00:43:55] Tony Arsenal: Even just a good study bible, something like. The Reformation Study Bible or something along those lines would help you work your way through these parables, and I think it's valuable to do that. [00:44:06] Jesse Schwamb: Something you just said sparked this idea in me that the power, or one of the powers maybe of good fiction is that it grabs your attention. [00:44:15] The Impact of Parables on Listeners [00:44:15] Jesse Schwamb: It like brings you into the plot maybe even more than just what I said before about it being resonant, that it actually pulls you into the storyline and it makes you think that it's about other people until it's too late. Yeah. And Jesus has a way of doing this that really only maybe the parable can allow. [00:44:30] Jesse Schwamb: So like in other words, by the time you realize. A parable is like metaphorical, or even in a limited case, it's allegorical form you've already identified with one or more of the characters and you're caught in the trap. So what comes to my mind there is like the one Old Testament narrative, virtually identical, informed to those Jesus told is Nathan's parable of the You lamb. [00:44:52] Jesse Schwamb: So that's in like second Samuel 12, and I was just looking this up as you were, as you were speaking. So in this potentially life and death move for the prophet Nathan confronts King David. Over his adultery with, or depending on how you see it, rape of Bathsheba, and then his subsequent murder of her husband Uriah, by sending him to the front lines of battle. [00:45:10] Jesse Schwamb: So he's killed. And so in this parable that Nathan tells Uriah is like the poor man. Bathsheba is like the Yu a and the rich man obviously represents David. If you, you know what I'm talking about, go back and look at second Samuel 12. And so what's interesting is once David is hooked into that story, he cannot deny that his behavior was unjust as that of the rich man in the story who takes this UAM for himself and he, which he openly. [00:45:38] Jesse Schwamb: Then David openly condemns of course, like the amazing climax of this. And as the reader who has. Of course, like omniscient knowledge in the story, you know, the plot of things, right? You're, you're already crying out, like you're throwing something, you know, across the room saying like, how can you not see this about you? [00:45:53] Jesse Schwamb: And of course the climax comes in when Nathan points the finger at David and declares, you are the man. And that's kind of what. The parables due to us. Yes. They're not always like the same in accusatory toward us, but they do call us out. This is where, again, when we talk about like the scripture reading us, the parable is particularly good at that because sometimes we tend to identify, you know, again, with like one of the particular characters whom we probably shouldn't identify with, or like you said, the parable, the sower. [00:46:22] Jesse Schwamb: Isn't the Christian always quick to be like, I am the virtual grounds? Yeah. You still have to ask like, you know, there is not like a Paul washer way of doing this, but there is like a way of saying like, checking yourself before you wreck yourself there. And so when Jesus's parables have lost some of that shock value in today's world, we maybe need to contemporize them a little bit. [00:46:43] Jesse Schwamb: I, and I think we'll talk about that as we go through it. We're not rewriting them for any reason that that would be completely inappropriate. Think about this though. Like the Jew robbed and left for dead. And you know the story of the Grace Samaritan may need to become like the white evangelical man who is helped by like the black Muslim woman after the senior pastor and the worship leader from the local reformed church passed by like that. [00:47:05] Jesse Schwamb: That might be the frame, which we should put it to try to understand it whenever we face a hostile audience that this indirect rhetoric of compelling stories may help at least some people hear God's world more favorably, and I think that's why you get both like a soft. And a sharp edge with these stories. [00:47:20] Jesse Schwamb: But it's the ability to, to kind of come in on the sneak attack. It's to make you feel welcomed in and to identify with somebody. And then sometimes to find that you're identifying entirely with a character whom Jesus is gonna say, listen, don't be this way, or This is what the kingdom of God is, is not like this. [00:47:35] Jesse Schwamb: Or again, to give you shock value, not for the sake of telling like a good tale that somehow has a twist where it's like everybody was actually. All Dead at the end. Another movie, by the way, I have not seen, but I just know that that's like, I'll never see that movie because, can we say it that the spoiler is, is out on that, right? [00:47:54] Tony Arsenal: Are we, what are we talking about? What movie are we talking about? [00:47:56] Jesse Schwamb: Well, I don't, I don't wanna say it. I didn't [00:47:57] Tony Arsenal: even get it from your description. Oh. [00:47:59] Jesse Schwamb: Like that, that movie where like, he was dead the whole time. [00:48:02] Tony Arsenal: Oh, this, that, that, that movie came out like 30 years ago, Jesse. Oh, seriously? [00:48:06] Jesse Schwamb: Okay. All right. [00:48:06] Tony Arsenal: So Six Sense. [00:48:07] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. That movie came out a long time ago. [00:48:10] Jesse Schwamb: So it's not like the parables are the sixth sense, and it's like, let me get you like a really cool twist. Right. Or like hook at the end. I, and I think in part it is to disarm you and to draw you in in such a way that we might honestly consider what's happening there. [00:48:22] Jesse Schwamb: And that's how it reads us. [00:48:24] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And I, I think that's a good point. And, and. It bears saying there are all sorts of parables all throughout the Bible. It's not just Jesus that teaches these, and they do have this similar effect that they, they draw you in. Um, oftentimes you identify it preliminarily, you identify with the wrong person, and it's not until you. [00:48:45] Tony Arsenal: Or you don't identify with anyone when you should. Right. Right. And it's not until the sort of punchline or I think that account with Nathan is so spot on because it's the same kind of thing. David did not have ears to hear. [00:48:58] Jesse Schwamb: Right. Until he had That's good point. Ears [00:49:00] Tony Arsenal: to hear. [00:49:00] Jesse Schwamb: Good point. [00:49:01] Tony Arsenal: And he heard the point of the parable. [00:49:03] Tony Arsenal: He understood the point of the parable and he didn't understand that the parable was about him, right? It's like the ultimate, I don't know why you're clapping David, I'm talking about you moment. Um, I'm just have this picture of Paul washer in like a biblical era robe. Um, so I think that's a enough progam to the series. [00:49:20] Preparing for the Series on Parables [00:49:20] Tony Arsenal: We're super excited we're, we'll cover some of these principles again, because again, different parables have to be interpreted different ways, and some of these principles apply to one and don't to others, and so we'll, we'll tease that out when we get there next week. We're gonna just jump right in. [00:49:34] Tony Arsenal: We're gonna get started with, I think, um, I actually think, you know, in the, the providence of, of the Holy Spirit and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and then obviously the providence of God in Christ's ministry, the, the parable that kind of like frames all of the other parables,

Text us a pool question!In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, host Rudy interviews Maddy Van Diver from Pool Butler, discussing the importance of mentorship in the pool industry. They explore effective teaching methods for CPO classes, the significance of quality control in technician training, and the impact of advanced water treatment technologies. The conversation also delves into the nuances of pool chemistry and the role of communication in customer service. Van shares personal insights and stories that highlight the value of continuous learning and community support in the industry.Sound Bites"Engaging teaching methods enhance learning.""Mentorship is crucial for industry growth.""Mentorship fosters a supportive community."takeawaysMentorship is crucial for industry growth.Engaging teaching methods enhance learning.Quality checks improve technician performance.Daily operations require effective communication.Advanced technologies are changing pool care.Understanding chemistry is vital for pool maintenance.Personal stories can enhance training effectiveness.Communication is key in customer interactions.Continuous learning is essential in the industry.Mentorship fosters a supportive community.Chapters00:00Introduction to the Podcast and Guests02:47Mentorship in the Pool Industry05:06Teaching and Engaging in CPO Classes08:14Quality Control and Technician Training10:55Daily Operations and Personal Insights14:00Advanced Water Treatment Technologies16:48Understanding Pool Chemistry19:19Mentorship and Industry Growth22:04Personal Stories and Lessons Learned24:55The Importance of Communication in Pool Care27:58Final Thoughts on Mentorship and Industry Future AquaStar Pool ProductsThe Global Leader in Safety, Dependability, & Innovation in Pool Technology.POOL MAGAZINE Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. OuBLUERAY XLThe real mineral purifier! Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50%Jack's MagicIf you know Jack's you'd have no stains!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

In this episode of Inside Personal Growth, Greg Voisen welcomes back leadership expert Simon Vetter, CEO of Stand Out International and co-author of Leading with Vision. Known as The Vision Architect, Simon shares how leaders can move beyond numbers and processes to create compelling, emotionally resonant visions that inspire teams and transform organizations. Listeners will learn: -Why storytelling is essential for leadership that connects both the head and the heart. -How to apply Simon's LIFT model to make the invisible visible and align teams around a shared purpose. -The critical roles of courage, clarity, connectivity, and culture in visionary leadership. -Why slowing down, reflecting, and tapping into intuition is vital for innovation and strategy. -Practical exercises for visualizing success, balancing best-case vs worst-case thinking, and fostering trust. Whether you're a mid-level manager or a CEO, this conversation will show you how to ignite passion, foster alignment, and build trust in today's fast-changing workplace. Our Guest, Simon Vetter: ➥ Book: Leading with Vision: The Leader's Blueprint for Creating a Compelling Vision and Engaging the Workforce ➥ Buy Now: https://a.co/d/f3nua9v ➥https://simonvetter.com/ ➡️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standoutwithsimon ➡️LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thevisionarchitect ➡️Twitter/ X: https://twitter.com/simonvetter Learn more about your Inside Personal Growth host, Greg Voisen: ➥ https://gregvoisen.com ➡️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insidepersonalgrowth/ ➡️Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsidePersonalGrowth/ ➡️LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregvoisen/ ➡️Twitter/ X: https://twitter.com/lvoisen/

Visionary designer Jack Ovadia, the creative mind behind Ovadia Design Group, takes us on an inspiring journey from his Brooklyn roots to his celebrated career in interior design and architecture. Jack opens up about how a chance encounter with a college guidance counselor led him to a path where art, math, and functionality collide, guiding him away from culinary arts and graphic design toward architecture. Jack's approach to maximizing space and creating family-oriented designs is grounded in a commitment to client experience, where building personal relationships ensures projects are both beautiful and meaningful. Venturing into the realm of livable luxury, Jack shares insights on blending aesthetics with functionality. His architectural training offers a fresh perspective on space planning, emphasizing comfort and durability over formality. A transformative project in Brooklyn not only propelled his career but also underscored the power of memorable client experiences in cultivating lasting relationships and opportunities for growth. Jack's stories reveal the importance of collaboration and creativity, with teamwork and open communication being the keys to innovative and successful designs.Engaging us further with tales of his notable works, Jack reflects on the emotional journey of designing the Edmund Safra Synagogue and other notable projects like a massive community center and luxury spa development. His grandfather's wisdom inspires Jack's relentless pursuit of growth and innovation, highlighting the necessity of staying mentally and physically active in the design field. As a crowning achievement, Jack's involvement in the prestigious Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse showcases his commitment to impactful design and the legacy he aims to build with Ovadia Design Group. Be prepared for an episode abundant with inspiration, purpose-driven design, and the perfect harmony of work and personal fulfillment.

This episode is presented by Create A Video – Unchallenged ideas are easy to hold. And if your political ideas cannot withstand scrutiny, then they should be abandoned as inadequate. The way you test your arguments is through debate. This is foundational to America and it's what Charlie Kirk believed. Help Pete’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s! Subscribe to the podcast at: https://ThePetePod.com/ All the links to Pete's Prep are free: https://patreon.com/petekalinershow Media Bias Check: GroundNews promo code! Advertising and Booking inquiries: Pete@ThePeteKalinerShow.com Get exclusive content here!: https://thepetekalinershow.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vedic Myths and Rituals, edited by Jan E.M. Houben and Julieta Rotaru, is a scholarly volume exploring the deep interplay between mythic narrative and ritual practice in the Vedic tradition. Drawing on diverse case studies—from the myth of Pedu's horse to the consecration rites of the Soma sacrifice—the book examines how ritual structure, symbolic meaning, and cosmic time converge in Vedic religious life. Engaging theoretical models like Roy Rappaport's ritual theory, the contributors reveal how Vedic rituals generate “time out of time,” sustain cosmic order, and transform participants. With essays from leading scholars and an unpublished contribution by Dipak Bhattacharya, the volume offers rich insights into the ritual logic, mythic imagination, and philosophical depth of ancient Indian traditions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

If you work with minimally speaking children using low-tech or high-tech AAC, this episode is for you. A brand-new systematic review has just been published, but the underlying research is sparse, messy, and often mislabeled. Today, we'll dig through the “recycle bin” of studies to uncover what actually works, why commenting is more powerful than requesting, and how to take action on Monday morning. You'll learn: -Why are many so-called “commenting interventions” really prompted responses to labeling questions, not true initiations -The pivotal role of combining words in AAC for speech development and generative language -Why modeling and scaffolding work and what research says about prompting hierarchies -How to apply the triangle of evidence-based practice when published protocols don't exist -Download my free 30 Minute M.O.D.E.L. workshop to share with colleagues and caregivers: https://www.kellyvess.com/aac

Summary: In this episode of the Experience Revolution podcast, host Dave Murray speaks with Katie Osborne, co-owner and vice president of marketing for Alpenhaus. They discuss the evolution of Alpenhaus, a family-run business that has expanded from a ski shop to a retailer of various outdoor fun products. Katie shares insights on the importance of customer experience, the tools and processes they have implemented to enhance service, and how they engage employees in this mission. The conversation also touches on the significance of recognition and awards, the impact of the Customer Experience Executive Academy (CXEA), and the continuous improvement mindset that drives Alpenhaus forward. Katie offers valuable advice for newcomers to the customer experience field, emphasizing the need to start small and focus on pain points. Takeways: Alpenhaus has evolved from a ski shop to a diverse outdoor retailer. Customer experience is woven into the fabric of Alpenhaus. Tools and processes are essential for delivering great customer experiences. Engaging employees through videos and role-playing enhances service standards. Recognition of employees for service excellence is crucial. CXEA provided valuable insights and tools for success. Continuous improvement is necessary for maintaining high standards. Internal communication plays a key role in reinforcing customer experience. Anecdotes of exceptional customer service highlight the company's commitment. Starting with small, manageable changes can lead to significant improvements. Chapters: 00:00Introduction to Alpin Haus and Its Journey 02:41The Importance of Customer Experience 05:22Tools and Processes for Success 08:13Engaging Employees in Customer Experience 11:23Recognition and Awards for Service Excellence 14:05The Impact of CXEA on Alpenhaus 16:54Continuous Improvement in Customer Experience 19:30The Role of Internal Communication 22:25Anecdotes of Customer Service Success 25:08Future Plans for Customer Experience 28:02Advice for Newcomers to Customer Experience   Links Customer Experience Executive Academy: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/cx-executive-academy/ Interview Questions: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/resources/ The DiJulius Group Methdology: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/x-commandment-methodology/ Experience Revolution Membership:  https://thedijuliusgroup.com/membership/ Schedule a Complimentary Call with one of our advisors:  tdg.click/claudia Books:  https://thedijuliusgroup.com/shop/ Zappos call:  https://thedijuliusgroup.com/is-zappos-really-that-good-at-customer-service-manager-fired-for-responses-to-online-reviewers/ Blogs on Above and Beyond Culture: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/category/above-beyond-culture/ Contacts:  Lindsey@thedijuliusgroup.com , Claudia@thedijuliusgroup.com Subscribe We talk about topics like this each week; be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss an episode.

Today, we're diving into the financial jungle that is the Sandwich Generation, those brave souls juggling the needs of aging parents and their own kiddos. The big question we're tackling is: what's the first step to turn those pesky financial red flags into shiny green flags? Should you rush to get a fiduciary financial pro on your side, or is it smarter to start with some self-awareness and building better financial habits? I'm all about the power of comprehensive professional guidance right from the get-go—because, trust me, the stakes are high! But my co-host argues that starting with personal financial literacy and accessible tools can lay a solid foundation for future success. So, whether you're team fiduciary or team self-guided, we're here to help you navigate your way to financial wellness with a whole lot of fun and a sprinkle of humor!Navigating the financial waters can often feel like trying to swim upstream while wearing a weighted vest, especially for the Sandwich Generation—those juggling the needs of aging parents and their own kids. In this lively episode, we dive deep into a spirited debate between two savvy hosts, Anthony Weaver and Michael Scarpati, who tackle the pressing financial challenges faced by this unique group. The core question revolves around the best first step: should one immediately enlist the help of independent fiduciary financial professionals, or should the focus be on fostering personal financial awareness and healthy habits first? Weaver argues passionately for the importance of seeking out comprehensive professional guidance right from the start. He emphasizes that many financial advisors aren't fiduciaries, which means they might not always put their clients' best interests first. With a staggering percentage of licensed professionals not held to fiduciary standards, he believes that securing the right kind of advice is crucial to avoiding potential financial pitfalls. Scarpati's insightful anecdotes, like the cautionary tale of a retired couple with a risky investment strategy, underscore the necessity of a holistic financial plan that includes tax strategies, cash flow management, and multigenerational wealth transfer. The hosts also discuss innovative platforms like Retire Us, which aim to connect individuals with qualified fiduciaries and simplify the daunting search for trustworthy financial advice. On the flip side, Scarpati presents a compelling argument for starting with self-directed financial education. He posits that many in the Sandwich Generation lack basic financial literacy, which can lead to more significant issues down the road. By focusing on understanding personal financial goals and building good habits, individuals can lay a solid foundation for future professional engagement. He shares practical tools and strategies, such as financial checkpoints, that empower listeners to identify their red flags and approach their finances with confidence. This discussion is not just about arguing for one side or the other; it's about illuminating the diverse pathways to financial wellness and the importance of finding an approach that resonates with each individual's unique circumstances. So, whether you're leaning toward hiring a fiduciary or diving into self-education, this episode is packed with insights that can help anyone in the Sandwich Generation tackle their financial challenges head-on.Takeaways: The Sandwich Generation faces unique financial challenges, juggling support for aging parents and kids. Engaging with fiduciary financial professionals can provide essential guidance for long-term planning. Building personal financial awareness and habits is a crucial first step for many people. Platforms like Retire Us help connect individuals with vetted fiduciaries, ensuring quality advice. Understanding your own financial situation is essential before diving into professional...

What would an extra $1000 every month mean to you and your family?   Inflation. Waiting for a raise that might not happen. So many people are looking for ways to earn extra income right now. Today I'm talking about how a subscription box side hustle could bring an extra $1000 a month to your family - with only 50 subscribers.  A subscription box business can be a full-time business. But it doesn't have to be. Many members of Launch Your Box have full-time, 9-5 style jobs and successful subscription box side hustles. They are nurse practitioners, teachers, certified registered nurse anesthetists, hair stylists, realtors, dentists, and more. They're also subscription box owners who bring in additional income with their side hustles.  You can, too! Let's do the math. If you have 50 subscribers and make $20 of profit per box, that's an extra $1000 going into your bank account every month.  Of course, it's going to take time and effort to get there. But following these six steps will have you well on your way to a successful subscription box side hustle.    Identify what you like or have an interest in.   Make sure it's something you're good at or have expertise in.  You have to be passionate about the subject matter or it won't last!  Don't try to be like anyone else - YOU will set your subscription box apart.     Ask yourself if there are other people around you with the same interest.    That's the audience you need to build!  Where can you find more of those people?  Where do they hang out online?    Start a social media account(s) on the platforms where your people hang out.   Start sharing videos, posts, etc.  Ask your friends to like your page and share it with their friends.  Make sure you're speaking the language of the person you are trying to attract. Messaging matters!    Run a giveaway.   Use Kingsumo (it's FREE!)  The prize needs to be a box just like what you want to sell.  Capture emails for those who enter your giveaway and start building your email list.    Introduce the idea for the box to your audience.   Get their feedback and have them help you make decisions.   You want their buy-in to validate your concept.  Niche down if needed.    Set a launch date and a goal.    Create excitement and generate buzz.  Get your new audience excited about the upcoming box!  Engaging your audience is key at every stage of your subscription box journey, whether it's your full-time gig or a side hustle. Continue to ask for feedback as you grow. Maintain an ongoing focus on audience building and keep serving your audience!  Join me for this episode as I talk about why a subscription box side hustle might be right for you and the six steps you need to take in order to make yours a success. The kind of success that means significant additional income - every month!  Important Links:  ⁠ 6 in 60 Workshop⁠ - Sarah's Method for Curating 6 Subscription Boxes in 60 Minutes Join me in all the places:  ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Launch Your Box with Sarah Website⁠    Are you ready for ⁠ Launch Your Box⁠? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. ⁠ Join the waitlist⁠ today! 

In this episode of YAS Podcast, host Nats Honey speaks with Akynos, founder and director of the Black Sex Worker Collective. They discuss the formation and purpose of the collective, the importance of preserving sex worker history, and the numerous challenges faced by Black sex workers, including financial struggles and systemic discrimination. Akynos highlights the significance of community support, engagement, and truthful representation of sex workers in media. The episode also touches on Akynos's environmental performance piece, 'I Didn't Mean To Turn You On,' and the newly opened BSWC community space in Berlin.00:00 Introduction to YAS Podcast00:48 Meet Your Hosts01:08 Support and Donations01:29 Today's Host: Nats Honey02:24 Introducing Akynos and the Black Sex Worker Collective03:54 Formation and Challenges of BSWC07:29 Pronouns and Identity08:39 Leadership Challenges and Wins16:12 Villainous Conference and Community Engagement24:21 Bees Knees Knee Pads25:11 Upcoming Environmental Performance Piece25:56 Facing Whorephobia and Cultural Misunderstandings26:15 Eye-Opening Travels in West Africa27:52 Reflections on Poverty in Jamaica and America28:40 Creating a Show on Global South Issues31:01 Berlin Show and New Community Space34:24 Archiving Black Sex Worker History38:12 Public vs. Private Conflict Resolution41:18 Engaging with the UN and Future Plans43:17 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionLinks:Akynos.comVillainous Conference EventbriteThe BSWC WebsiteFollow BSWC on InstagramFollow NatsHoney on InstagramSupport our work: YASStore.ShopDonate to our work: YASWork.Org/Donate

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, the hosts and Father Dufresne explore the significance of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, reflecting on scriptural readings and the paradox of exalting an instrument of death. They discuss the importance of community in faith, the challenges of church attendance, and the need for authentic connections with Christ. The conversation emphasizes embracing grief and change within the church, while also addressing the decline in attendance and the role of the church beyond its physical buildings. The hosts conclude with light-hearted 'dumb questions' that add a humorous touch to the serious themes discussed.TakeawaysThe Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a significant feast in the church.Scriptural readings highlight the importance of looking to God for healing.The cross symbolizes both death and the promise of new life.Community plays a crucial role in maintaining faith and support.Church buildings can sometimes become idols, overshadowing their true purpose.Authentic faith requires confronting difficult truths and embracing change.Declining church attendance reflects deeper issues within the community.Exalting the cross invites us to embrace our grief and move towards renewal.The church is fundamentally about the people, not just the buildings.We must actively work to connect others with Christ. Chapters00:00 Get all set for the 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time with Fr. Dufresne03:05 The Exaltation of the Holy Cross06:24 Reflections on Parish History and Community09:04 The Paradox of the Cross12:23 Embracing Death for New Life15:13 The Role of the Church in Modern Times18:09 Addressing the Loss of Community21:01 The Importance of Church Buildings23:50 The Future of the Church26:44 Engaging the Next Generation29:58 Conclusion and Lighthearted Questions

Hello to you listening in Cartegena, Columbia, South America!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga.Perhaps like me you have walked a long road to find out how to use your voice to shine a light into the world that would be vastly incomplete without you. Perhaps you might still feel self-conscious about using the power of your voice.Hear me when I say this: it's your time! You did not come to Earth to be quiet. Set aside your limiting beliefs. They are of no use to you! The world needs what you have to give. If what you have to give is a cup of water would you deny it to a world that is thirsty? Of course not!The more you get to the heart of your message and the message of your heart the more likely it is that you will speak your truth, live your truth, and the world will be less thirsty.CTA: You can always read another "How To" book; but how much more fun, engaging and memorable would it be if you and I could chat about how you can get to the heart of your message to connect with, engage and influence your audience. If you are curious  email me at Quarter Moon Story Arts  to set up a Discovery Chat. Let's get to the heart of your message!You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. Be sure to stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website, check out the Services, arrange a no-obligation Discovery Call, and stay current with me as "Wyzga on Words" on Substack.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.  If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.

In this episode of Mind The Kids, host Mark Tebbs speaks with Dr. Lucy Tully and Dr. Simon Rice about the development and impact of "Family Man," an innovative, online, father-inclusive parenting program designed to reduce child conduct problems. Findings can be found in ACAMH's  Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry – JCPP - ‘An online, father-inclusive parenting intervention for reducing child conduct problems: a randomised controlled trial of family man' https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.14068 Dr. Tully, a senior lecturer and clinical researcher, shares her passion for early intervention in child mental health and her commitment to making evidence-based parenting support accessible. She highlights a key gap in the field: most parenting programs are designed for and tested with mothers, leaving fathers underrepresented and under-engaged. The conversation explores the barriers fathers face in accessing traditional parenting programs—such as cost, work commitments, lack of awareness, and persistent gender stereotypes—and how Family Man was purpose-built to address these issues. Developed in partnership with the Movember Institute, Family Man is a brief, self-directed, animated program that uses humor and relatable scenarios to engage fathers (and mothers) in learning effective strategies for managing children's challenging behaviors. A randomized controlled trial found that parents who completed Family Man reported significant improvements in their child's conduct, parenting practices, and family wellbeing—benefits that were sustained over time and equally experienced by both mothers and fathers. The program's online, accessible format and father-focused branding were key to its success. Dr. Rice emphasizes the importance of policy changes to support father involvement, such as better paternity leave and organizational practices that actively engage dads. Both guests call for ongoing research, longer-term follow-up, and a cultural shift to make father engagement "core business" in child mental health. Listeners are encouraged to try Family Man for free, regardless of whether they have concerns about their child's behavior, and to share the resource widely. This episode is essential for parents, practitioners, and anyone interested in advancing inclusive, accessible, and effective support for families.

Tuesday Morning FLASH X Space 9 September 2025In this X Space, philosopher Stefan Molyneux conducts a spontaneous call-in session focusing on his Universally Preferable Behavior (UPB) theory and the importance of universal morality. Engaging with listeners, he addresses ethical assumptions and tackles a poignant call about an anxious eight-year-old girl facing familial issues. Molyneux emphasizes balancing personal well-being with social responsibility, encouraging constructive dialogue and openness to change in moral discussions.FOLLOW ME ON X! https://x.com/StefanMolyneuxGET MY NEW BOOK 'PEACEFUL PARENTING', THE INTERACTIVE PEACEFUL PARENTING AI, AND THE FULL AUDIOBOOK!https://peacefulparenting.com/Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Subscribers get 12 HOURS on the "Truth About the French Revolution," multiple interactive multi-lingual philosophy AIs trained on thousands of hours of my material - as well as AIs for Real-Time Relationships, Bitcoin, Peaceful Parenting, and Call-In Shows!You also receive private livestreams, HUNDREDS of exclusive premium shows, early release podcasts, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series and much more!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2025

Optimizing your website for Q4 success, making your personal brand stand out, and adapting to the changing landscape of content creation with Madison Wetherill from Grace and Vine Studios. ----- Welcome to episode 535 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Madison Wetherill from Grace and Vine Studios and Joyfully Mad. Branding, Blogging, and Q4: How to Stand Out Online In this conversation, Madison discusses the importance of personal branding and website optimization for food bloggers, especially as they prepare for the critical Q4 season. She emphasizes the need for food creators to carefully define their niche and audience, effectively communicate their brand message, and integrate your brand into your site. Madison also shares strategies for standing out in a saturated market and the significance of calls to action on websites. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of content creation and the need for bloggers to adapt to stay relevant and connect with their audience. Three episode takeaways: How to audit your own content — Madison shares how to review your site for user experience and brand messaging. She explains how to optimize individual blog posts to convey your personal brand and voice, why you must always review your blog on mobile, and how to ensure that every page on your website reflects your brand. Madison describes this process as the foundational work that will make your brand sustainable in the years to come — sold. How to adapt to the changing landscape of content creation — Bjork and Madison discuss the importance of creating an online space and content style that is uniquely yours to stand out from AI (and in a saturated market). Engaging with your audience through personal stories can enhance connection, which is critical for building trust with your audience and moving beyond a transactional relationship for recipes. How can you be more helpful for your audience? What makes you different? How (and why) to prepare your site for Q4 — Q4 is a critical time for food creators thanks to increased site traffic and earning potential. But Madison explains that many creators forgot to get their websites ready and are missing an opportunity. She shares exactly how to do this and why website optimization is crucial for converting traffic into loyal followers. Resources: Grace + Vine Studios Joyfully Mad How to Optimize Your Website Design as a Food Blogger with Madison Wetherill The Vine Podcast MKBHD Pinch of Yum Ask From Food Blogger to CEO: How to Scale Your Blog Without Losing Yourself with Bjork Ostrom Follow Madison on Instagram Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is sponsored by Member Kitchens and Raptive. Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to podcast@foodbloggerpro.com. Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

Send us a textWhat makes a consultancy truly valuable to potential buyers? It's far more than just impressive EBIT DA figures and client lists.David Blois, a certified accountant with 25 years of M&A experience in the professional services sector, reveals the three critical boxes every successful acquisition must tick: chemistry between the parties, cultural alignment in working practices, and an outstanding combined business proposition. His insights challenge the conventional wisdom that focuses solely on financials."Buyers are fairly simple creatures," Bloys explains, highlighting their preference for straightforward acquisitions that align with strategic objectives without requiring complex restructuring. This reinforces why niche-focused consultancies typically attract more interest and higher valuations than generalist firms.For consultancy owners planning an exit, timing is everything. Engaging with M&A specialists 2-3 years before your intended sale allows you to systematically address value-limiting factors. Common weaknesses include absence of second-tier management, inadequate margins, poor systems, and over-reliance on referral business. By understanding what creates premium factors versus discount factors in your valuation, you can strategically enhance your firm's worth.Perhaps most valuable is Bloys' practical advice on earnouts - keep them to 2-3 years maximum and ensure targets are realistically achievable. The success of these arrangements hinges on that initial chemistry and cultural fit established at the deal's outset.Whether you're running a £5 million or £50 million consultancy, these principles apply. The gap in valuation multiples between smaller and larger firms isn't as dramatic as many believe, particularly when smaller firms find buyers who recognize strong synergistic benefits.Want to maximize your consultancy's value? Focus on building a distinctive, specialized business with robust fundamentals rather than prematurely orienting your strategy around potential buyers. When sale time arrives, work with specialists who can connect you with multiple potential acquirers - finding not just the highest price, but the right match for long-term success.Prof. Joe O'Mahoney helps boutique consultancies scale and exit. Joe's research, writing, speaking and insights can be found at www.joeomahoney.com

Join us for a practical and inspiring Retail Roundup session with western fashion influencer and content creator Kyli Hibbard (@shopwithmecowgirl). Fresh off the WESA Trade Show floor, Kyli will share quick, creative content ideas that retailers can use right away to boost engagement and showcase their products on Reels, TikTok, and Shorts even with a busy schedule. Listen in...WESA Retail Roundup September 8, 2025:Host: Glenn the Geek, Host of Horses in the MorningFacebook: Retail Roundup Facebook groupGuest: Kyli Hibbard | Facebook | Instagram | TikTokPresented By: Western English Sales AssociationChapters:00:47 - The Power of Short Form Video in Retail11:11 - The Importance of Hooks and Consistency in Video Marketing19:22 - The Shift Towards Authenticity in Content Creation23:22 - Navigating Short Form Video Strategies27:25 - The Rise of YouTube and Its Impact on Content CreationTakeaways:The significance of short-form video lies in its capacity to foster genuine connections between businesses and consumers.Engaging with audiences through authentic content enhances relatability, resulting in increased customer loyalty and interest.Understanding the nuances of various social media platforms allows businesses to tailor their content effectively for optimal reach.Consistency in posting is paramount; it trains customers to expect and engage with content regularly, thus enhancing brand visibility.

**Please subscribe to Matt's ⁠Substack⁠ at https://worthknowing.substack.com/*** The Judicial Branch Is Our Last Line of Defense Against Trump. Is It Holding?Join Matt Robison and legal expert Kim Wehle as they explore the judiciary's role in countering the unprecedented consolidation of power and abuse of the law by the Trump administration. Amid the collapse of checks from the executive and legislative branches, the conversation delves into whether the judicial branch can stand firm or if it's on the brink of collapse. This episode is a deep-dive into recent rulings, constitutional law, and the imperative for collective civic engagement to uphold democracy.00:00 Introduction and Overview06:26 The Supreme Court's Abdication of Duty18:25 Emergency Powers and Presidential Overreach26:34 The Role of Lower Courts32:53 The Importance of Rule of Law38:31 Supreme Court Rulings and Their Implications44:47 The Need for Constitutional Protections49:20 Engaging in Constructive Dialogue54:33 Final Thoughts and Call to Unity

"Exposure is critical for the creative career, and I would say connection is critical for the creative spirit. They're both important in different ways." - Lauren Spangler, artist & creativity coachIn this episode of the Artist Business Plan, guidance from creativity coach Lauren Spangler on getting unstuck. She shares tips for sharing your artwork and forging relationships with your audience, regardless of how many Instagram followers you have. For more information on applying to The Superfair as well as recordings of this and all of our past episodes, visit www.thesuperfair.com.IG: @thesuperfair, @theartistbusinessplanIG: @laurenspanglerCheck out Lauren's book The Real Life Artist: How to Pursue Your Passion Without Quitting Your Day Job. Email questions and comments to abp@thesuperfair.com.Hosted and Executive Produced by James Miille and Alexander MitowSenior Producer: Parth Shah

Beyond Staff: Engaging Your Full Nonprofit Workforce - Board Members and Volunteers IncludedNonprofit engagement cannot stop at staff. In this episode, Tosha Anderson and leadership expert Rhonda Travers show you how to engage employees, board members, and volunteers with a simple lifecycle approach. Learn to define volunteer roles, onboard and offboard board members, build a basic governance dashboard, and communicate across channels so your mission stays top of mind.Connect with Rhonda TraversTravers Training & Consulting - Founder & President

If you believe in second chances, Dallas Stars head coach Glen Gulutzan has a story or two he could share. After being relieved of his duties in 2013 by general manager Jim Nill, it's that same GM who has brought back Gulutzan to complete some unfinished business in Dallas.Engaging and insightful, Gulutzan clearly has the vision and sees the end game for a Stars team which has found different ways of falling short in each of the last three springs.Neil and Vic will also touch on some other league news, which includes the passing of a Hall-of-Fame netminder, a playoff salary cap and new fashion statements across the NHL.IN THIS EPISODE:[01:36] - Glen Gulutzan joins Neil and Vic and quickly recognizes the unique opportunity of joining a team that is among the NHL's elite.[02:23] - Gulutzan shares the experience of interviewing for the same job with the same GM who had fired him a dozen years earlier. He goes on to add how many familiar faces have remained with the Stars organization since his first go-round.[06:37] - Given the uniqueness of being re-hired by the GM who fired you, Vic poses to Neil whether he would have been able to do likewise given the the right conditions.[08:19] - Recollections of the ECHL days when Gulutzan was coaching in Las Vegas. While the Golden Knights put on a show now, they'd be hard-pressed to come up with some of the innovations introduced by the Wranglers.[10:45] - With six years behind the Wranglers bench between 2003-2009, Gulutzan shares whether he believed back then that the NHL could survive and thrive in Sin City.[13:07] - Evolving as a head coach through the minors to the NHL.[16:29] - Between his Dallas head coaching stints was a two-year run heading up the Flames. Gulutzan shares the importance of those two seasons leading up taking over the reins in Dallas again. [19:18] - Credited with helping the Edmonton Oilers becoming one of the most fearsome power play units in NHL history, Gulutzan takes over an offensively gifted group which will be less superstar driven and more a product of two very able units.[23:02] - Dallas has fallen in three consecutive Western Finals, the last two to Edmonton with Gulutzan as an assistant. Having played a role in exploiting the Stars in 2025 might be the secret sauce in fixing things come next spring.[25:54] - The top the hockey summit is in Florida. Thoughts on never altering the style of play from October-June.[28:37] - Wrapping up with the pronunciation of Glen's birthplace.[34:36] - News from around the NHL starts with the passing of Canadiens legend Ken Dryden, addressed the business component into the Carey Price trade to San Jose, the upcoming playoff salary cap, some fashion news and the 2025 US Hockey Hall of Fame Inductees. X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparoundNeil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeilVic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/#NHLWraparound #ShortShifts #NYCentric #StanleyCupdate #SUmmerCoolers #NeilSmith #VicMorren #NHL #SummerCoolers #AnaheimDucks # #BostonBruins #BuffaloSabres #CalgaryFlames #CarolinaHurricanes #ChicagoBlackhawks #ColoradoAvalanche #ColumbusBlueJackets #DallasStars #DetroitRedWings #EdmontonOilers #FloridaPanthers #LosAngelesKings #MinnesotaWild #MontrealCanadiens #NashvillePredators #NewJerseyDevils #NewYorkIslanders #NewYorkRangers #OttawaSenators #PhiladelphiaFlyers #PittsburghPenguins #StLouisBlues #SanJoseSharks #SeattleKraken #TampaBayLightning #TorontoMapleLeafs #UtahMammoth #VancouverCanucks #VegasGoldenKnights #WashingtonCapitals #WinnipegJets #GlenGulutzan #JimNill #JoeNieuwendyk #DennisSoetaert #MarkJanko #ScottWhite #JordyBenn #VernFiddler #MaxFortunus #TravisMorin #RogerNeilson #MikeKeenan #ColinCampbell #JohnMuckler #ECHL #TheAHL #LasVegasWranglers #BillyJohnson...

On this episode of Bingeworthy, host Mike DeAngelo is joined by writer, director, and showrunner Noah Hawley ("Fargo," "Legion") to discuss his new FX series, "Alien: Earth." The highly anticipated prequel series debuted August 12th and runs through September 23rd, delivering a bold new chapter in the iconic sci-fi horror franchise. Set in a future Earth, the story follows a young woman and a band of tactical hybrid misfits who uncover a terrifying secret after a mysterious spacecraft crash-lands in their corporate territory, forcing them into direct conflict with everyone's favorite killer, acid-blooded alien species and much more. The series stars Sydney Chandler, Alex Lawther, Samuel Blenkin, Babou Ceesay, and Timothy Olyphant.READ MORE: ‘Alien: Earth' Review: Noah Hawley Matches Ridley Scott's Classic In A Terrifically Smart, Engaging & Terrifying Sci-Fi Horror SeriesThe show takes place only two years prior to the events of "Alien," and Hawley made doubly sure his series felt instantly familiar to fans of the original. “People have to watch it in the first five minutes and go, this is Alien,” Hawley said. That meant using the actual Nostromo blueprints to design the Maginot ship and opening the series just like Scott's 1979 film—with the crew waking up, smoking, eating, and overlapping their conversations. “It has to feel authentic,” Hawley stressed.

You can fight with your spouse in a way that actually strengthens your marriage. You'll discover how you can build communication bridges by learning to seek permission to have the discussion, present the issue, explore solutions, acknowledge what you hear, and keep focused on the present.

Podcast Episode: Walking in True Faith – Gifts, Repentance, and the Heart of God[00:00 – 05:00] – The Early Stages of Faith and Assurance of SalvationWhen you first get saved, it's common to ask yourself: Am I really saved? In this episode, we dive deep into the early stages of Christian life and explore the tension between spiritual gifts and true salvation. Just because you can prophesy, speak in tongues, or even heal doesn't necessarily mean your heart is aligned with God. Gifts without repentance leave the soul far from the Lord. We unpack 1 Corinthians 9:22–27 to understand how Paul disciplined his body and soul to ensure he didn't disqualify himself from the ultimate prize—Jesus.[05:01 – 15:00] – Distinguishing Gifts from God's CallWe discuss the dangers of mistaking gifts for a calling and the importance of discerning God's true purpose for your life. You'll hear real-life examples of people excelling in ministry or visible gifts, yet missing the heart of God. This segment emphasizes repentance, holiness, and walking humbly with Christ rather than relying on talent alone.[15:01 – 25:00] – Engaging the Millennials and Today's GenerationHow do you reach a generation that believes they can “do what they want” while still claiming faith? We explore practical ways to guide young believers toward recognizing their need for a Savior. This includes listening, gently speaking truth, and letting the Holy Spirit work—because one person plants, another waters, but God brings the growth.[25:01 – 35:00] – The Power of Patience and PresenceWe dive into how patience and understanding, modeled after Jesus' ministry, can be a bridge to hearts hardened by culture. The importance of being present, speaking scripture in real-life moments, and nurturing faith in subtle yet impactful ways is highlighted here. It's about allowing God to reveal truth through timing and intimacy.[35:01 – 45:00] – Standing in the Lion's Den: Courage and Divine ProtectionFearlessly stepping into spiritual battles is part of God's calling. Gloria shares experiences of receiving prophecies about entering “dark places” without fear, leaning entirely on God's strength. We discuss how God prepares us to be a light in challenging circumstances, even when facing opposition or uncertainty.[45:01 – 55:00] – Deepening Your Relationship with GodFaith isn't just about action—it's about presence. We explore what it truly means to be at the foot of the cross, wrestling with God, and letting trials shape your character. Discover how struggles and trials refine us, bring us closer to Jesus, and allow His peace to transform our hearts. Philippians 3:10–11 is highlighted as a guide to truly knowing Christ.[55:01 – 60:00] – Living Faith Daily and Impacting OthersThis episode wraps up with actionable takeaways on living a faith-driven life that impacts others authentically. We emphasize community, prayer, and being real with God and people—because sugarcoated faith doesn't lead others to Jesus. Realness, honesty, and a heart fully surrendered to God make the difference.Gifts without repentance are meaningless in God's eyes.Patience, presence, and listening are vital when ministering to others.Spiritual courage comes from trusting God to go before you.Trials and struggles refine faith and deepen intimacy with God.Community, authenticity, and real-life application of scripture create lasting impact.Here is the main way to work with me for fitness + faith transformation: Word & Wellness CommunityWant to learn how to launch your podcast without the headache? Podcast Made SimpleReady for your nervous system to actually catch a break? Be Still StudyKey Takeaways:Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode

Visit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation. www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.SummaryIn this engaging conversation, T.S. Wright interviews Kirsten Telan, a children's author and kindness advocate, about her journey in writing a children's book titled 'A Tale of Two Dogs.' Kirsten shares her experiences of overcoming fear in the publishing process, the importance of faith in her writing, and her mission to spread kindness. The discussion highlights the significance of narrative in teaching children and the impact of personal growth through creative expression.TakeawaysKirsten Telan is a kindness advocate and children's author.Her book 'A Tale of Two Dogs' teaches about friendship and differences.The journey of writing a book can be organic and God-led.Overcoming fear is crucial in the publishing process.Kirsten emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset.She encourages others to pursue their writing dreams, regardless of age.Kirsten's blog, 'The Confetti Effect,' promotes kindness and faith.Engaging children through narrative is more effective than fact-based teaching.Traveling with kindness can make a positive impact on others.Kirsten's journey reflects personal growth and faith-based transformation.Kirsten Telan's information:www.kirstennelsontelan.com

Leadership Through Engaging Questions Gary B. Cohen shared his career journey, starting with growing ACI Telecentrics from two people and $4,000 to 2,200 employees and taking it public, achieving 50% compounded annual growth for the first 10 years. He then transitioned to writing a book on leadership and coaching, emphasizing the importance of asking questions rather than telling to engage employees. Gary highlighted that leaders need to shift from being tellers to askers, changing their identity to foster engagement, and he now focuses on coaching, which he believes is more crucial than ever in today's workplace. Transforming Healthcare Through Employee Engagement Michael shared his experience transforming a healthcare organization with a high turnover rate by listening to employees and implementing their suggestions without conditions. He reduced the turnover rate from 86% to 6% in one year by asking questions, showing genuine interest, and creating an environment where employees felt valued. Gary noted that this approach aligns with coaching principles, emphasizing the importance of moving from a position of knowing all the answers to one of curiosity and open-mindedness. Transforming Toxic to Collaborative Workplaces Michael shared his experience transforming a toxic work environment into a collaborative one, highlighting how addressing underlying issues and empowering staff led to significant improvements. He emphasized the importance of creating environments where individuals have both authority and accountability, and noted that the same people can maintain positive change even after organizational transformations. Gary mentioned his passion for writing a second book with Robert Dora, focusing on digital manufacturing. Balancing Permission and Employee Autonomy Gary discussed the concept of employees feeling "on the hook" in a positive way, contrasting it with the negative connotation often associated with the term. He emphasized the importance of balancing permission-giving and permission-seeking between leaders and employees, noting that excessive permission-giving can disengage employees and reduce their sense of ownership over their work. Gary and Michael explored how guardrails, such as job descriptions and budget allocations, can provide structure without stifling creativity or initiative. They agreed that leaders should help employees recognize these boundaries while encouraging autonomy and accountability. Empowering Mental Health Workers Michael shared his experience with empowering mental health workers to develop new programming, which resulted in a successful poster presentation at a conference. He emphasized the importance of employee ownership and engagement, as well as the value of celebrating project outcomes rather than focusing solely on ideas. Michael also discussed his approach to leadership, including his practice of asking questions to maintain a state of wonder and curiosity, and the importance of active listening. Peak Leadership Question-Asking Styles Gary discussed a tool called Peak Leadership, which identifies four question-asking styles based on two dimensions: perspective/evaluation and knowledge/action. He explained that most people only use one of these styles, limiting their questioning to 25% of the available options, but the model shows that individuals can develop and expand beyond their natural style. Covey Assessment Tool Introduction Gary discussed his company's decision to offer a free 7-minute assessment tool based on Stephen Covey's 360-degree quadrant model, which helps individuals and organizations ask better questions and improve their performance. Michael encouraged listeners to take advantage of the tool, emphasizing its value for organizations of all sizes. Website:  https://co2coaching.com Book: Just Ask Leadership:  Why Great Managers Always Ask the Right Questions  

We are kicking off the second part of Season 5 with a bang and sharing one of the coolest programs we've had the pleasure of learning about: Cardinal Manufacturing. Led by our guests, Craig and Tyson, Cardinal Manufacturing is a high school class *and* a full-fledged business that allows students to not only do actual work but learn the skills involved in running a business, from how to walk through a door with confidence and give a good handshake to how to quote jobs, do the work, and submit invoices. Like…can you even?! It's the coolest program and we can't wait to share it with you. About Cardinal Manufacturing: Cardinal Manufacturing began in the Eleva-Strum School District during the 2007-2008 academic year when instructor, Craig Cegielski, approached the School Board about the potential of pursuing an in-school manufacturing business similar to one he started in his prior position in the school district of Antigo, WI. The school board approved and since that time Cardinal Manufacturing has gone from its infant stages to a company with significant annual sales and national notoriety. The growth of the program has attracted national and international attention and Cardinal Manufacturing has attended national tradeshows and hosted celebrity guests including Wisconsin's Governor, Scott Walker. Cardinal Manufacturing has served hundreds of customers from private individuals to clients throughout the state of Wisconsin and other parts of the country. A number of students have gone directly to skilled employment positions after high school, but most choose to go on to post-secondary education through technical college or the university system. Chippewa Valley Technical College and UW-Stout have taken a particular interest in the program. Cardinal Manufacturing has also built strong relationships with a number of private companies and professional organizations which have been supportive through donations, advice, publicity opportunities, and projects. In-school programs such as Cardinal Manufacturing serve as a grassroots economic development effort. Not only do these programs expose students to career opportunities in manufacturing and teach students soft skills for future employment, but they also work toward changing the attitudes of counselors and parents to be more open to the idea of encouraging students to look at manufacturing careers. Students get hands on opportunities to try out these roles before making an expensive decision in choosing a post-secondary program. In other words, kids get the chance to try welding, machining, construction, production management, accounting, office management, and marketing prior to committing to a major or area of study. The services provided through the program are worthwhile and valuable to the customers who pay for the service. Cardinal Manufacturing is a year-long two credit class which offers more than a standard classroom instruction. Students in this class gain the real life experiences of problem solving, running a business, and working in professional career roles. Students must apply to be part of this program and manufacturing employees have successfully completed both Metal Working I and II. The application process includes creating and submitting a resume, project portfolio, and a letter of recommendation. Once accepted, student participants are assigned a role that may include: Quoting jobs Ordering materials Manufacturing parts Quality control and inspections Shipping product Receiving product and materials Invoicing Customer service Accounting Marketing Maintaining work hours Besides the great experience gained, the students receive a profit sharing check at the end of the school year based upon number of hours worked and other measurement tools. Only a portion of Cardinal Manufacturing earnings are paid to students after expenses and upcoming needs are covered. Most of the money earned supports the purchase of materials, equipment and facility needs to continually grow and improve Cardinal Manufacturing. About Craig: Craig Cegielski, a native of Marshfield, WI, developed a passion for manufacturing early on through high school technical education classes and hands-on work at a local machine and fabrication shop. He earned his degree in Technology Education from the University of Wisconsin–Stout and began his teaching career at Antigo High School, where he launched the successful student-run business, Red Robin Machining. After a brief return to industry, Craig joined Eleva-Strum High School as a Technology Education teacher. In 2007, he founded Cardinal Manufacturing, a student-run business designed to give students real-world experience in the trades. With over 20 years of dedication to technical education, Craig continues to lead and expand Cardinal Manufacturing, helping prepare students for successful careers in manufacturing. About Tyson: Tyson Rohrscheib is a Technology Education teacher at Eleva-Strum High School, where he has taught since 2019. An Eleva-Strum alumnus, Tyson began his training in Machine Tool and Die at Chippewa Valley Technical College before earning his degree in Technology Education from the University of Wisconsin–Stout. He brings a strong background in machining and hands-on learning to his teaching, preparing students for real-world careers in manufacturing and engineering. Outside of the classroom, Tyson is active on his family farm, managing a herd of 40 beef cattle and working on metalworking projects in his home shop. In this episode, we cover: What Cardinal Manufacturing is and how it started How exposing kids at a young age is key to getting them interested in a career Why technical skills are the least important thing they teach How the local community supports Cardinal Manufacturing and the students Links + Resources Mentioned: Website: Cardinal ManufacturingVideo Gallery: Watch HereFacebook: @CardinalManufacturingInstagram: @cardinal_manufacturingYouTube: Cardinal Manufacturing Channel Sponsor Spotlight: Brodie Mueller and The Market on the Plaza In small towns, coffee is more than caffeine. It's community! Market on the Plaza roasts beans locally in Aberdeen, in small batches for the freshest, richest cup to start your day or for an afternoon pick-me-up. Stop in to grab a bag for home or linger over a cup with neighbors. Proudly local, always welcoming. This week's Small-Town Shout-Out is: Freeman, South Dakota! Shelly says, “We love to fest!” Freeman hosts THREE annual Fests and they're all completely volunteer-run. Like, three *every year!* This is amazing and cool and hats off to Freeman for having the community enthusiasm and buy-in to host multiple events every year. Heck yeah Freeman! We Want to Hear From You! Some of the best parts about radio shows and podcasts are listener call-ins, so we've decided to make those a part of the Growing Small Towns Podcast. We really, really want to hear from you! We're have two “participation dance” elements of the show: “Small town humblebrags”: Call in and tell us about something amazing you did in your small town so we can celebrate with you. No win is too small—we want to hear it all, and we will be excessively enthusiastic about whatever it is! You can call in for your friends, too, because giving shout-outs is one of our favorite things.  “Solving Your Small-Town People Challenges”: Have a tough issue in your community? We want to help. Call in and tell us about your problem, and we'll solve it on an episode of the podcast. Want to remain anonymous? Totally cool, we can be all secretive and stuff. We're suave like that.  If you've got a humblebrag or a tricky people problem, call 701-203-3337 and leave a message with the deets. We really can't wait to hear from you!  Get In Touch Have an idea for a future episode/guest, have feedback or a question, or just want to chat? Email us at hello@growingsmalltowns.org Subscribe + Review Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of The Growing Small Towns Show! If the information in our conversations and interviews has helped you in your small town, head out to Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver relevant, helpful content, but it will also help us reach even more small-town trailblazers just like you!  

In this episode of Partial Credit, the hosts celebrate their seven-year anniversary while diving into various topics including fantasy sports, classroom activities, and the cultural phenomenon of K-Pop Demon Hunters. They discuss the controversies surrounding sports friendships, the integration of technology in creative writing, and the intersection of sports and YouTube culture. The episode wraps up with a fun segment on useless websites and activities for listeners.   Takeaways: The podcast celebrates its seven-year anniversary, reflecting on its journey. Fantasy sports leagues can be a fun way to engage with friends and family. Controversies in sports can affect friendships and lead to humorous situations. Kids' interests, like K-Pop, can be integrated into classroom activities. Using technology, such as AI, can enhance creative writing projects in schools. K-Pop Demon Hunters has become a cultural phenomenon among students. The intersection of sports and YouTube culture is growing, with unique events like Mr. Beast's challenges. Useless websites can provide fun and engaging activities for students. Teachers can use fantasy sports to teach math and statistics in a fun way. Engaging students with creative projects can lead to memorable learning experiences.  

Are you worried about your child's reading progress—or feeling unsure about how to teach phonics at home? You're not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Melanie Jeffrey, host of the Homeschool Phonics podcast, to uncover practical, faith-friendly strategies to help your child become a confident reader. Melanie shares her journey from traditional education to homeschooling, revealing why phonemic awareness—the ability to hear, blend, and segment sounds—is the foundation every child needs before they can read fluently. We talk about: -The 44 sounds of English every homeschool mom should know. -How to spot early signs of dyslexia and what it really means  -Engaging, playful activities that motivate even reluctant readers.  -Affordable tools like whiteboards and magnetic letters that make phonics fun. -Why celebrating small victories is key to long-term literacy success. Whether you're a brand-new homeschool mom or looking to strengthen your teaching toolkit, this conversation will leave you encouraged, equipped, and ready to unlock your child's reading potential. ✨ Your homeschool can be the place where your child learns to love reading—this episode shows you how. RESOURCES: Homeschool Phonics Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Podcasts Homeschool Phonics Website FREE 7-STEP HOMESCHOOL KINDERGARTEN PHONICS GUIDE! SIGN UP FOR Free 3rd WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP: CLICK HERE SCHOOL TO HOMESCHOOL RESOURCES:  Sign Up for the School to Homeschool Newsletter Private Mentoring with Janae: Schedule a Free Discovery Call School to Homeschool YouTube Channel Etsy Store: Shop for Homeschooling Swag *Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links. CONNECT with US Join the Private Facebook Group  Learn more about School to Homeschool Contact Janae: schooltohomeschool1@gmail.com

What does it look like to raise children who can stand firm in their faith—while also engaging the culture with grace and truth? In our latest Homeschool Talks episode, Jonathan Noyes from Stand to Reason shares his own journey from atheism to Christianity and how that transformation fuels his passion for equipping families. In this discussion with HSLDA President Jim Mason, they explore how to introduce varying worldviews while planting seeds of the gospel in your children. “We don't just keep our kids in these little bubbles and then suddenly when their adults throw them out, because they won't survive. What we should be doing is inoculating our kids with the truth. Teaching our kids. in the context of our homeschool communities, teaching them about evolution, and not just the Christian perspective of evolution. Teach them from the naturalistic, the “true evolution”, and then you teach them what it really means to be an evolutionist. You teach them why [it is] wrong. . .we should be exposing our kids in appropriate ways to worldview issues at a young age because they're going to get exposed. Once your kid gets a phone, once your kid get access to online stuff, it's already too late. So we should be exposing our kids in order to inoculate, not isolate, in order expose them to the wind so they don't just get pushed over.”—Jon Noyes

Lucinda examines talent retention and development, building on the previous discussion about attracting talent, and emphasising the importance of creating a high-performance culture that not only draws in great people but also keeps them engaged and motivated. Lucinda explores the evolving definition of talent, highlighting the need for inclusivity and recognising diverse contributions within organisations KEY TAKEAWAYS Talent should not be limited to a select group of high performers or leaders. It encompasses a diverse range of individuals, including specialists, reliable experts, and emerging leaders, highlighting the importance of recognising and harnessing everyone's unique contributions. Organisations often invest heavily in recruitment but neglect onboarding and ongoing development. To retain talent, it's crucial to provide meaningful career opportunities, learning and development options, and a sense of purpose beyond just a pay cheque. The shift to hybrid work has changed how employees engage with their organisations. Companies need to ensure that visibility and performance evaluations are fair and inclusive, avoiding biases that may arise from physical presence in the workplace. Engaging employees in their career development is essential. This involves regular performance conversations that focus on individual aspirations and growth, allowing employees to take an active role in shaping their career paths. BEST MOMENTS "We know that talent is broad. It's about seeking out everybody's talent. Talent is your high-performing specialist... Everyone plays their part." "People want more than a pay cheque. They want purpose, flexibility, growth, and to feel that their career is moving forward." "If you think of a modern talent strategy... it needs to be conscious, intentional, and on their terms as well." "We need to engage the individual in driving their career. People want choice, autonomy, and clarity on how they can grow." "Don't start investing and don't bite off more than you can chew. Start small and then turn those insights into action." VALUABLE RESOURCES The HR Uprising Podcast | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher   The HR Uprising LinkedIn Group How to Prioritise Self-Care (The HR Uprising) How To Be A Change Superhero - by Lucinda Carney HR Uprising Mastermind - https://hruprising.com/mastermind/   www.changesuperhero.com www.hruprising.com            Get your copy of How To Be A Change Superhero by emailing at info@actus.co.uk ABOUT THE HOST Lucinda Carney is a Business Psychologist with 15 years in Senior Corporate L&D roles and a further 10 as CEO of Actus Software where she worked closely with HR colleagues helping them to solve the same challenges across a huge range of industries. It was this breadth of experience that inspired Lucinda to set up the HR Uprising community to facilitate greater collaboration across HR professionals in different sectors, helping them to ‘rise up' together. “If you look up, you rise up” CONTACT METHOD Join the LinkedIn community - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13714397/ Email: Lucinda@advancechange.co.uk Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucindacarney/ Twitter: @lucindacarney Instagram: @hruprising Facebook: @hruprising This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Sermon Title: WorshipSeries: A Future with HopeScripture: Isaiah 6:1-8Worship is the center of our life together, the foundation for belonging, growing, and making an impact.Worship draws us out of ourselves and focuses our attention on God.Engaging and inspiring worship changes us, connects us with God and one another, and opens us to God's grace.Like Isaiah, we encounter God in worship and are sent to live out God's mission in the world.Worship is not just one hour on Sunday, it shapes every hour of our lives.Reflection QuestionsWhat comes to mind when you hear the word “worship”?Why do you attend worship? What is your favorite part of worship and why?Recall a moment in worship when you experienced the presence of God. What difference did that experience make in how you see and engage the world?Where and to whom is worship sending you? Sending Davidson UMC?Is there someone you could invite to join you in worship at Davidson UMC?

Engagement is not the same as "fun." It's the foundation for meaningful and lasting learning. Join me as I talk with Katie Powell, author of Boredom Busters: Transform Worksheets, Lectures, and Grading into Engaging, Meaningful Learning Experiences. Katie shares simple yet powerful strategies that help teachers transform their classrooms into spaces where students thrive. Whether you're trying to bring more fun into your lessons, address curriculum pressures, or manage student behavior during engaging activities, Katie's practical advice can help. In this episode, you'll learn: Why engagement is essential for learning and how it primes the brain for retention. Simple strategies like “deploying worksheets differently” to make learning more interactive. How movement, humor, and creative activities reduce behavioral issues and improve focus. How to balance the demands of standardized curriculum pacing with engaging strategies. Practical ways to manage transitions and behavior during high-energy activities. How engagement fosters a sense of belonging, safety, and fun in the classroom. The value of empowering students to understand their own learning needs and self-regulation strategies. How to start with small, manageable shifts to make your teaching more engaging and effective. Our conversation is packed with practical tips and real-world insights to help you make learning fun, meaningful, and memorable. Book link: https://amzn.to/3JamUUJ Website: teachbeyondthedesk.com Get the shareable article/transcript for this episode here.

FASCISM...FRANCE. Two words/ideas that scholars have spent much time and energy debating in relationship to one another. Chris Millington's A History of Fascism in France: From the First World War to the National Front (Bloomsbury, 2019) is a work of synthesis that also draws on the author's own research for key examples and evidence to support its narrative and claims. Moving chronologically, the book's chapters take the reader from the impact of the First World War right up to the contemporary period in French politics, culture, and society. A narrative and analysis focused on the French context, the book situates France within a broader European frame. Engaging the complex historiographic battles surrounding French fascism in ways that will be helpful to non-specialists, and especially to student readers, the book condenses decades of previous scholarship while delving into concrete cases and moments that help to illustrate the stakes of this historical and political field. Examining movements like the Croix-de-Feu, Faisceau, Jeunesses Patriotes, Partie Social Français, and the Cagoulards within the broader interwar landscape of right-wing thought and politics, the book goes on to consider the Vichy period and the emergence of the National Front after the Second World War. *Special note: Chris and I ran out of time before I could ask him about what he's been working on since the publication of A History of Fascism in France. Readers may also be interested in his most recent book, France in the Second World War: Collaboration, Resistance, Holocaust, Empire (Bloomsbury, 2020). Roxanne Panchasi is an Associate Professor of History at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada who specializes in twentieth and twenty-first century France and its empire. If you have a recent title to suggest for the podcast, please send her an email (panchasi@sfu.ca). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Visit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation. www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.SummaryIn this conversation, TS Wright and Joshua Spatha explore the complexities of the Western mindset towards Christianity, emphasizing the tension between faith and reason. They discuss the cultural crisis stemming from relativistic truth claims and the importance of engaging with non-believers through rational discourse. The dialogue highlights the need for humility in understanding both the tangible and spiritual realms, ultimately pointing to Christ as the unchanging foundation of truth amidst a rapidly changing society.TakeawaysThe Western mindset is heavily influenced by Greek philosophy and rationality.Cultural relativism challenges the concept of absolute truth.The tension between faith and reason has historical roots.Both science and faith are essential for a holistic understanding of reality.Engaging with non-believers requires a rational and evidential approach.Humility is crucial when discussing complex realities.Spiritual reality is as mysterious as physical reality.Christianity uniquely offers a relationship with God based on grace.Truth in faith is not subjective but absolute and unchanging.Christ is the only foundation that remains solid through cultural shifts.