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Show Notes & References Resources mentioned in this episode: Tither, E. (2025, December 10). What happens to the data you feed LLMs? University of Illinois System, Student Money Management Center. https://blogs.uofi.uillinois.edu/view/7550/1055573584 Chen, K., Zhou, X., Lin, Y., Feng, S., Shen, L., & Wu, P. (2025). A survey on privacy risks and protection in large language models. Journal of King Saud University – Computer and Information Sciences, 37(7). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44443-025-00177-1 Farooqui, A. (2025, February 12). Samsung lets employees use ChatGPT again after secret data leak in 2023. SamMobile. https://www.sammobile.com/news/samsung-lets-employees-use-chatgpt-again-after-secret-data-leak-in-2023/ Han, X., Peng, H., & Liu, M. (2025). The impact of GenAI on learning outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental studies. Educational Research Review, 100714. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2025.100714 Imperial War Museums. (2018). How Alan Turing cracked the enigma code. https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/how-alan-turing-cracked-the-enigma-code Kwak, R. (2023, November 30). Announcing Microsoft Copilot with Data Protection. Technology Services, University of Illinois. https://www.techservices.illinois.edu/2023/11/30/announcing-microsoft-copilot-with-data-protection/ Kwak, R. (2025, November 11). ChatGPT arrives at U of I. Technology Services, University of Illinois. https://www.techservices.illinois.edu/2025/11/11/chatgpt-arrives-at-u-of-i/ Microsoft 365, Copilot with Data Protection – AI Chat for the Web. (2024). University of Illinois System KnowledgeBase. https://answers.uillinois.edu/133037 OpenAI. (2023). Privacy policy. https://openai.com/en-GB/policies/row-privacy-policy/ Ray, S. (2023, May 2). Samsung bans ChatGPT among employees after sensitive code leak. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/siladityaray/2023/05/02/samsung-bans-chatgpt-and-other-chatbots-for-employees-after-sensitive-code-leak/ Yao, Y., Duan, J., Xu, K., Cai, Y., Sun, Z., & Zhang, Y. (2024). A survey on large language model (LLM) security and privacy: The good, the bad, and the ugly. High-Confidence Computing, 4(2), 100211. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hcc.2024.100211
Naším hostem bude lektorka feng-šuej a životní rovnováhy Blanka Vun Kannon. Co si na vlastní cestě k harmonii tvrdě odžila a odpracovala? Jak si máme vytvořit příbytek na míru, který vyživuje tělo i duši? A proč stojí za to intenzivně vnímat přírodu, vlastní rodovou linii a v neposlední řadě i sny? Všechny díly podcastu Stříbrný vítr můžete pohodlně poslouchat v mobilní aplikaci mujRozhlas pro Android a iOS nebo na webu mujRozhlas.cz.
In this episode Randel and Owen talk with J. Justin Meehan about his martial journey and training Chen Taiji with Feng Zhi Quan, Zhang Xue Xin.From the ICMAC Hall of Fame website:"J. Justin Meehan has been training in martial arts since the 1960s, studying Taijiquan and Chinese Kung Fu Wu Shu (Siu Lum, Praying Mantis, Hung Gar, Wing Chun and weapons, especially straight sword). He is a St. Louis attorney and President of the Chinese Internal Arts Association and St. Louis Taoist Research and Resource Forum. He has studied Yang Taiji under William CC Chen and Yang Zheng-Duo (son of Yang Cheng-Fu) and Chen Taiji under Feng Zhiqiang, Chen Xiao Wang, Ma Hong, and Zhang Xue Xin. Meehan was a member of the first U.S. Sports Delegation to study the original Chen-style Taiji in Beijing, China. He has published more than 30 articles on Taiji in leading martial arts magazines. He has frequently been a chief judge for Chinese Martial Arts tournaments and has taught numerous students who have excelled in these competitions. He also teaches Qigong and has studied Buddhist, Taoist, Er Mei, Health Maintenance, and Hun Yuan systems."YouTubeNeed More From Kung Fu Conversations (KFC)?KFC EmailKFC InstagramKFC FacebookKFC Buy-Me-A-CoffeeKFC MerchNeed Kung Fu Training?Xingyi and Bagua in Colorado - Boulder Internal ArtsWing Chun in Colorado - Red Forest Chinese Boxing#kungfupanda #taichi #kungfu #kungfuconversations #meditation #qigong #wingchun #baguazhang #fengzhiqiang
We take a look at a section from Hong Ze Han's book on Zhang Jun Feng's words on Bagua Zhang. Our Episode on Zhang's book.
Jste doma pořád unavená? Nedaří se vám v práci rozjet flow a spánek nestojí za nic? Možná za to nemůžete vy, ale váš prostor! V dnešním díle podcastu Srdeční záležitosti si povídáme s expertkou a konzultantkou Feng Shui, Terezou Boškovou. Tereza nám prozradí, jak si doma vytvořit energetickou podporu pro kariéru, hojnost i vztahy. Zjistíte, proč muži mění na Feng Shui názor (jakmile vyzkouší jeden konkrétní trik v ložnici) a jaký je ten absolutně první a nejdůležitější krok, který můžete pro svůj domov udělat HNED TEĎ. Tereza Bošková je konzultantka Feng-shui a expertka na harmonizaci domova. Propojuje praktické umění uspořádat domov s energetickou proměnou, takže to ladí pragmatičkám i čarodějkám. Pomáhá lidem proměnit svůj domov v silného partnera pro život, jaký chtějí žít a podnikatelkám pochopit, že prostor je silný energetický zářič, který je spolu s mindsetem a strategií nedílnou součástí důležité podpory pro podnikání. www.terezaboskovacz Tereza na Instagramu: https://www.instagram.com/boskova.siladomova
Turning Chaos into Systems: The 90-Day Growth Framework That Scales Any Business with Kathie Feng Find Rocky Lalvani @ www.ProfitComesFirst.com or email him at rocky@profitcomesfirst.com Make more, work less video: https://youtu.be/ What does it actually take to build a marketing system that drives predictable, sustainable revenue? In this episode of The Profit Answer Man, Rocky Lalvani sits down with Kathie Feng, founder of Signal Growth and fractional CMO with over 13 years of experience leading growth for Fortune 500 brands including Constellation Brands (Corona and Modelo), Pave (an a16z-backed fintech unicorn), Discover, Capital One, and Shiseido. Kathie breaks down the frameworks, strategies, and hard truths that separate businesses that scale from businesses that stall. In This Episode: Why most small business owners jump to paid advertising before answering the most important question about their product and audience What the "winning triangle" of product fit, market fit, and pricing fit really means and how to use it before spending a single dollar on ads How to build a customer feedback loop that validates your assumptions and identifies your true target audience Why Meta and Google campaigns fail for so many entrepreneurs and what the real problem usually is How to structure a test and learn strategy that gives your campaigns the best possible chance of working Why the first two seconds of a Meta ad are the most critical and how creative structure directly impacts algorithm performance How to evaluate a marketing agency before you hire one and what questions to ask to separate a polished pitch from proven results What benchmarks and KPIs you should be holding your agency accountable to from day one The difference between closing high ticket offers of $7,000 and above versus lower ticket offers under $2,000 and why the sales process should look completely different How the consumer decision journey has shifted away from a linear funnel and what that means for how you show up across channels What AI is doing to the content landscape and how founders can use it as a growth tool without losing the authenticity that builds trust What a 90 to 120 day revenue framework actually looks like and what milestones you should expect within that window Key Takeaways: Start with the winning triangle before you advertise. Build a customer feedback loop early. Your Meta and Google campaigns need a structured test and learn approach. The first two seconds of your ad determine everything on Meta. Hold your agency to real benchmarks from day one. Run a pilot before committing to a full scope of work. Match your sales process to your price point. The consumer decision journey is no longer linear. AI is a tool that amplifies capacity, not a replacement for strategy. A 90 to 120 day framework should produce measurable results. About Kathie Feng: Kathie Feng is a founder and Growth Architect who helps businesses turn momentum into market dominance. With more than 13 years of experience leading growth for global brands, Constellation Brands (Corona, Modelo), Pave (a16z-backed fintech unicorn), Discover/Capital One, and Shiseido, she brings enterprise-grade strategy to founder-led companies ready to scale with clarity and intention. Through her company, Signal Growth, Kathie and her team, with combined experience of 5 decades, engineer predictable revenue by installing the same data-driven, AI-powered frameworks used by Fortune 500 and multinational brands. Her work blends systems thinking, consumer psychology, and operational discipline, giving founders access to the rigorous, scalable infrastructure normally reserved for billion-dollar organizations. Her multicultural background—having been to 6 continents, 42 countries, and speaking 5 languages, shapes her ability to decode human behavior, refine messaging across cultures, and unlock deeper emotional resonance in markets crowded with noise. She believes growth isn't luck; it's engineered. And the right system transforms both the business and the founder leading it. Kathie speaks on: • AI-powered growth systems • Modern-day growth funnel architecture • Founder psychology and decision-making • Consumer-centric positioning, messaging & behavioral strategy • Building 90-day revenue engines • Scaling without chaos or burnout Links: Website: https://signalgrowth.webflow.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathiefeng/ Profit Blueprint Calculator I Profit Comes First: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/profitblueprintcalc-page Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@profitanswerman Sign up to be notified when the next cohort of the Profit First Experience Course is available! Free Copy of the Profit Blueprint Book: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/landing-page-page Monthly Newsletter signup: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/newsletter-signup Relay Bank (affiliate link): https://relayfi.com/?referralcode=profitcomesfirst Profit Answer Man Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/profitanswerman/ My podcast about living a richer more meaningful life: http://richersoul.com/ Music provided by Junan from Junan Podcast Any financial advice is for educational purposes only and you should consult with an expert for your specific needs.
PATREON: Thanks so much to new patron Faye Whyte. Thank you to my existing patrons for believing in my work offline and here in the podcast. If you are a patron, in either tier, you get all my content, always. You can support me and my dreams and my writing and my aligned author life for $11.11 USD, and I will be so so grateful. Truly. Heart to heart. Gratitude for your gifts. If you want coaching too (with TWO LIVE CALLS EACH MONTH, you can BACK me at $55.55/mo USD). You will NEVER find coaching sessions for less money than this. If you've ever wanted continued support for your writing and accountability for your projects, this is the way to do it. Become a patron of the arts and of me at Patreon.com/valerieihsan. And you can support my friend and colleague and Visiting Co-Host author Erick Mertz at Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Announcements/Author Updates: hole in my roof (Feng shui story) seen the dentist Sunday Summit (weekly reflection from Soul-Sourced Entrepreneur) request to bring back a regular patron gathering for all members (paid and unpaid) Mini writing retreat (cozy, candle; oracle card pull to set intention; check-in: 1 struggle, 1 win, what you are working on tonight; guided meditation; writing words; share word count (optional)); PLEASE send me a DM or a comment where you heard this podcast, or in the Patreon community. Let me know if this is something you crave. It's not just shared writing space. It's a retreat from regular life (dishes, dogs, kids, day job) and a safe and sacred space to connect and to write. met with an architect What are you reading? Just finished: Smoke Screen (J.L. Kwak) Soul Sourced Entrepreneur (Christine Kane) Back-burner Books: (Still on the stack but haven't finished reading them yet...) Wild Dark Shore (Charlotte McConaghy) We Need Your Art: Stop Messing Around and Make Something (Amie McNee) (resource tip)*** Creative Act (Rick Rubin) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman; (Main Topic): Notes: What top two tips for new authors (clear on vision: why now, why you; make commitment so you don't stop when it's hard) (what is your voice? Physicality of voice, talk all the time, style/tone, brand personality)(go forth with a plan, use Amazon, use AI for marketing copy, learn what works best for your genre and your lane, then add more)(do it with intention) For authors with an old back list: (branding) look at covers and the book, major trends change every 5 or 6 years, change the covers unless doing well, check manuscript for relevancy (check your reviews: rush the ending? Took too long to get started), make minor changes. with a cold email list? (Manage: consistency and congruency. Write more books.) Learn the rules of email, tell stories in email, make offers (book is a product, series, themed package (events, retreats, talks, coaching, products, merchandise -- what can I create? Experiences, clothing, conferences.) Promotion skills: mindset needs to be BOLD; carry books with you, leave them in airports, talk about your books all the time, get help for marketing plan Build marketing into the book: 1. Have a layer of marketing understanding. Write as series, or a themed standalone. 2. Know and understand the genre and what the market expects from the genre, knowing where your story fits on the bookshelf. Visibility: creative and production energy. Creative spirit is regenerative at the cellular level. Live longer. Moving into production energy, don't be careless, but care less. How to move into production energy: marketing plan/to do (spinning wheels and squirrel), patience, show up, stand up (Sorry I'm late, I didn't want to be here by Jessica Pan), be distinctive (find your uniqueness is and plan on that) part of your brand (tagline, footer, tell the story in speech, work it in appropriately) What about those writers that don't want to write to market, writing first then market afterwards Fiction: idea/story --> How do I monetize? Series marketing: amazon loves a series, book 1 watch, if does well, when book 2 comes out, amazon algorithm helps you. Promo Hour, Monday, 4-5 p.m. ET boldauthorsnetwork.com zoom link via email. Fill out a form once. Strong community. Books by Kae Wagner: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/22232801.Kae_Wagner Brewing Love (Building Dreams series), only on Amazon And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you. Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor
Regarding the unique career of Feng Dao of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms.Support the show
Learn all about how The Data Maestro uses data to solve the world's problems, one Gartner 2006 Reading Guide at a time.In the latest episode of the Data Podcast for Nerds, we talk with the "Data Maestro" himself, Tiankai Feng, to explore why the "why" behind data is just as important as the data itself.Whether you are a data professional or just AI-curious, this episode dives into how we can keep humanity at the center of the AI revolution and why you shouldn't panic about becoming a machine learning engineer overnight.Highlights
In a new episode of The Resilient Surgeon, host Melanie Edwards, MD, sits down with cognitive neuroscientist Daniel Smilek of the University of Waterloo's Vision & Attention Lab to explore how attention and perception shape performance. Their conversation dives into the realities of everyday multitasking, examining how it contributes to lapses in attention, cognitive errors, and mind wandering. Smilek connects this research directly to surgical practice and surgeon well-being. Listen today. Resources referenced in the discussion: Bidelman, G. M., & Feng, S. (2025). Familiar music reduces mind wandering and boosts behavioral performance during lexical semantic processing. Brain Sciences, 15(5), 482. Killingsworth, M. A., & Gilbert, D. T. (2010). A wandering mind is an unhappy mind. Science, 330(6006), 932-932. Kiss, L., & Linnell, K. J. (2021). The effect of preferred background music on task-focus in sustained attention. Psychological research, 85(6), 2313-2325. Seli, P., Risko, E. F., Smilek, D., & Schacter, D. L. (2016). Mind-wandering with and without intention. Trends in cognitive sciences, 20(8), 605-617. Watson, J. M., & Strayer, D. L. (2010). Supertaskers: Profiles in extraordinary multitasking ability. Psychonomic bulletin & review, 17(4), 479-485.
Reporters Antonia Waterman ('28) and Isabella Hetzler ('28) discuss the rising popularity of underground rap. They analyzed artists such as Feng, EsdeeKid, Fakemink and Nettspend, reflecting on their impact on modern pop culture, fashion and the rap industry.
We've spent our whole lives being told that a wandering mind is a problem... but what if it's actually one of the most powerful things your brain can do? In this episode, we're diving into the neuroscience of creativity: what it actually is, why your best ideas almost never happen when you're trying hardest to force them, and what occurs in your brain during a genuine creative breakthrough. From the default mode network and alpha waves to dopamine, divergent thinking, and why the "right brain" myth has been officially debunked — we're making the case that creativity isn't a gift reserved for artists and inventors. It's something your brain is designed to produce, and something we may have been accidentally shutting down all along.>> Support the Brain Blown on Patreon>> Have questions, stories, or topics you want us to cover? Email us at info@brainblownpodcast.com.>> Learn more at www.brainblownpodcast.comRESOURCESWhat Happens in a Creative Brain? — AJ Keller, CEO at NeurosityDefining Creativity: Beyond the Cliché — Science News TodayThe Neuroscience of Creativity — Andreas Fink & Mathias BenedekToward a Neurocognitive Framework of Creative Cognition: The Role of Memory, Attention, and Cognitive Control — Mathias Benedek & Andreas FinkThe Link Between Creativity, Cognition and Creative Drives and Underlying Neural Mechanisms — Khalil, Goode & KarimCreativity and the Brain: An Editorial Introduction to the Special Issue on the Neuroscience of Creativity — Saggar, Volle, Uddin, Chrysikou & GreenNetwork Neuroscience of Creative Cognition: Mapping Cognitive Mechanisms and Individual Differences in the Creative Brain — Beaty, Seli & SchacterNeural, Genetic, and Cognitive Signatures of Creativity — Liu, Zhuang, Zeitlen, Chen, Wang, Feng, Beaty & Qiu
Shoutout to @ollieschminkey for the inspiration for this month's wellness activity. Find Ollie on most social media platforms for more Writing Prompt Wednesday ideas. Enjoy!We've spent our whole lives being told that a wandering mind is a problem... but what if it's actually one of the most powerful things your brain can do? In this episode, we're diving into the neuroscience of creativity: what it actually is, why your best ideas almost never happen when you're trying hardest to force them, and what occurs in your brain during a genuine creative breakthrough. From the default mode network and alpha waves to dopamine, divergent thinking, and why the "right brain" myth has been officially debunked — we're making the case that creativity isn't a gift reserved for artists and inventors. It's something your brain is designed to produce, and something we may have been accidentally shutting down all along.>> Support the Brain Blown on Patreon>> Have questions, stories, or topics you want us to cover? Email us at info@brainblownpodcast.com.>> Learn more at www.brainblownpodcast.comRESOURCESWhat Happens in a Creative Brain? — AJ Keller, CEO at NeurosityDefining Creativity: Beyond the Cliché — Science News TodayThe Neuroscience of Creativity — Andreas Fink & Mathias BenedekToward a Neurocognitive Framework of Creative Cognition: The Role of Memory, Attention, and Cognitive Control — Mathias Benedek & Andreas FinkThe Link Between Creativity, Cognition and Creative Drives and Underlying Neural Mechanisms — Khalil, Goode & KarimCreativity and the Brain: An Editorial Introduction to the Special Issue on the Neuroscience of Creativity — Saggar, Volle, Uddin, Chrysikou & GreenNetwork Neuroscience of Creative Cognition: Mapping Cognitive Mechanisms and Individual Differences in the Creative Brain — Beaty, Seli & SchacterNeural, Genetic, and Cognitive Signatures of Creativity — Liu, Zhuang, Zeitlen, Chen, Wang, Feng, Beaty & Qiu
Do naszego studia zaprosiliśmy jednego z wyróżniających się absolwentów III rundy programu Unicorn Hub Innovation Lab – Szymona Ciamagę. Jego pomysł na biznes został uznany za najlepszy podczas DemoDay kończącego rundę. I właśnie o tym pomyśle, czyli Diagniso, rozmawiamy zSzymonem. W jaki sposób Unicorn Hub Innovation Lab pomógł Szymonowi w zweryfikowaniu swojego pomysłu na wirtualnego diagnostę dla warsztatów samochodowych? Jak mentorzy programu wsparli go w procesie szlifowania rozwiązania? Jak eksperymenty w trakcie UHIL przełożyły się na rynkową gotowość Diagniso?Naszą rozmówczynią jest też Agata Koprowska z Fundacji OIC Poland, która opowiada, jak Unicorn Hub Innovation Lab zapewnia przestrzeń początkującym przedsiębiorcom na testowanie swoich rozwiązań i weryfikowanie ich w oparciu o rynkowe kryteria i potrzeby odbiorców.Podcast nie mógłby się odbyć bez udziału Jarka Dudy - eksperta ds. marketingu B2B i budowania strategii wzrostu, konsultanta ds. przywództwa i rozwoju biznesu, który w programie Unicorn Hub Innovation Lab był mentorem Szymona, wspierając go w rozwoju Diagniso.Odcinek został zrealizowany we współpracy z OIC POLAND Fundacją Akademii WSEI, która koordynuje projekt Unicorn Hub Innovation Lab, współfinansowany ze środków FunduszyEuropejskich dla Nowoczesnej Gospodarki, w ramach Priorytetu II Środowisko sprzyjające innowacjom, Działanie FENG.2.27 Laboratorium Innowatora.
Buckle up for a wild ride...Amit and Jeff jet off to Sydney, Australia to chat with Stavros Prineas of Nepean Hospital: Anesthesiologist, human factors expert, raconteur, lover of dad jokes, and all around good guy! (ok, we didn't fly there, but one day...). How to set up your block area, Feng shui, darts, ABBA, Inigo Montoya, identity hats, Seinfeld junior mint references, Émile Chartier quotes...we cover a LOT of ground in this fun and engaging episode. Join us each month for another sassy conversation about anesthesiology, emergency medicine, critical care, POCUS, pain medicine, ultrasound guided nerve blocks, acute pain, and perioperative care!
In this talk, Feng explored the significance of the event when Jesus and Peter walked on water from Matthew 14:22-32. This sermon also looked at how Jesus revealed himself in different ways through this supernatural event. Matthew 14:22-32
For award-winning architect Xue Feng, success is measured in laughter. He designs with people, not just for them. His holistic approach weaves speed, sustainability and soul into every project, transforming ordinary places into vibrant stages for everyday life.
Listen to today's podcast... Getting a full night's sleep is up there on the list of things that can make you an energetic, happier person. That quality and quantity can be impacted by poor feng shui in your bedroom. By being aware of some of the principles of feng shui, your bedroom can promote healing, love, and energy. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency! So Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating Feng Shui Awareness Day: Meeting the feng shui bed guidelines starts with a solid headboard, good mattress, good frame height, and no storage underneath. Choose Your Bedroom to be at the back-end of your home. The back-end of our homes are usually much quieter and your sleep is less likely to be disrupted. Position your head so that you can see the door and have your headboard against the wall. This gives you a subtle sense of security that'll help you fall asleep easier. The feng shui commanding position is the area furthest diagonally from the door, but not in line with it. Only have things that bring you joy and help your energy Work and sleep don't mix, so avoid work-related furniture in the bedroom. Get rid of “light pollution” that causes sleepless nights. Use black out curtains if necessary. Remove all electronics from easy-access to your bed, and you can find your sleep quality improve. Keep your bedroom free of clutter including underneath your bed. A clean and organized bedroom is more visually relaxing and less likely to invoke frustration and agitation that lower your sleep quality. Feng shui is often misconstrued as a complicated, confusing process, however, just follow a few basic principles. Keep clutter at a minimum, have plenty of natural light and fill your home with rounded or curved furniture to allow energy to flow more freely throughout a space. Discover how to take small steps towards a healthier, happier, less-stressed you by visiting my website at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr
Feng Shui de la Personalidad con Sandra Srur, en el programa de Vamos que venimos. Conviértete en un supporter de este podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/conexion-pineal--3574623/support.
Last time we spoke about the Wang Jingwei Regime. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, tensions between Chiang Kai-shek and Wang Jingwei escalated amid Japan's aggressive invasion. Disillusioned by Chiang's scorched-earth tactics, such as the Yellow River flood and Changsha fire, Wang defected from Chongqing in December 1938, fleeing to Hanoi to negotiate peace with Japan. An assassination attempt, likely ordered by Chiang, killed Wang's secretary Zeng Zhongming, deepening the rift and sparking retaliatory violence. Wang's group, aided by Japanese agents like Kagesa Sadaaki, navigated scandals and leaks, including a forged agreement exposed in the press. After grueling negotiations in Shanghai and Tokyo, Wang conceded to harsh Japanese terms, including limited sovereignty and economic controls. On March 30, 1940, he established the Reorganized National Government (RNG) in Nanjing, adopting the nationalist flag with a controversial yellow pennant symbolizing "peace, anticommunism, nation-building." Despite Wang's vision of constitutional democracy, the RNG functioned as a wartime puppet, isolated from Chongqing and resented as traitorous. Wang died in 1944, and the regime collapsed in 1945. #195 The Xiang-Gan Operation Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. In the sweltering grip of August 1939, Chongqing languished under an unbearably hot summer, the air thick with humidity and the weight of impending doom. Perched on a sun-baked hillside along the southern bank of the Jialing River, roughly 10 kilometers from the chaotic heart of the city, loomed a two-story Western-style building. This fortress of stone and resolve, known as the "Huangshan Villa," stood as Chiang Kai-shek's official residence in Chongqing, a sanctuary amid the storm of war. Unless urgent meetings or crises at the Military Affairs Commission demanded his presence, it was here that Chiang orchestrated the fate of a nation on the brink. One fateful evening, as shadows lengthened across the villa, the Bureau of Investigation and Statistics delivered a chilling report from Wang Pengsheng, the director of the Military Affairs Commission's Institute for International Affairs. Wang was no ordinary operative; he was a knowledgeable, experienced, and sharp-minded intellectual, a master of Japanese affairs, and one of Chiang's most trusted aides, his insights cutting like a blade through the fog of deception. In this urgent dispatch, Wang distilled the latest machinations from Japan. After the traitor Wang Jingwei defected to the enemy, Japan glimpsed a sinister new path to conquer China: ramping up political inducements for surrender, with brutal military offensives reduced to mere supporting roles. On June 20, the Japanese Imperial General Headquarters unleashed "strategy" tasks upon its troops in China—to incite local armies, those ragtag "miscellaneous troops," to betray their own, isolating and pulverizing the central army units. Wang Pengsheng saw through the ruse; this "attacking the heart" and "subduing strategies," drawn from the ancient wisdom of China's military sage Sun Tzu, betrayed the Japanese army's desperate straits, manpower stretched thin, supplies dwindling to the point of desperation. Chiang Kai-shek's eyes narrowed as he gripped his red pencil, underlining a passage in the report with deliberate strokes, marking it as a thunderclap of importance or urgency: To cooperate with the establishment of the Wang puppet regime and exert military pressure on the Chongqing government, under the direction of the Imperial General Headquarters, the commander of the Japanese 11th Army, Okamura Yasuji, had formulated the "Xiang-Gan Operation Plan" targeting the main forces of the central army in the Ninth War Zone and was intensifying preparations for its implementation. The words hung heavy in the air like a gathering storm. Chiang Kai-shek rose abruptly, his body protesting with a stiff ache from hours of unyielding vigilance. He stretched his weary waist and legs, then pushed open the wooden door beside the vast sun-facing window, stepping out onto the balcony as if seeking solace from the encroaching night. The balcony commanded a sweeping vista, a momentary escape from the suffocating confines of strategy and betrayal. Gazing downward, the "Fog Capital" Chongqing emerged in rare clarity, serene and layered beneath the fiery embrace of the evening glow. The distant murmur of the Jialing River, flowing ceaselessly like the pulse of a defiant heart, whispered a fleeting sense of ease amid the turmoil. Yet even this pause carried the echoes of war's relentless march. After the Japanese horde seized Wuhan and surged onward to claim Yueyang—only to halt their southward thrust—both Mao Zedong in his Yan'an stronghold and Chiang Kai-shek in Chongqing etched this moment as a pivotal divide in China's War of Resistance Against Japan. Mao proclaimed the war had plunged into the "stalemate phase," a grinding impasse. Chiang, ever the resolute leader, declared the "second phase of the war of resistance" ignited from this very point. But across the vast national battlefield, the first half of 1939 roared with unquenched fury, the air thick with the acrid smoke of gunpowder. From the year's dawn, the Japanese army, bolstered by five divisions and eight mixed brigades, launched ruthless "security consolidation" operations in North China to fortify their blood-soaked conquests, only to be harried and bloodied by the Communist Eighth Route Army slipping behind enemy lines and the valiant troops of the First and Second War Zones. In late March, the Japanese 11th Army stormed Nanchang, clashing in a maelstrom of fire with the four group armies of the Ninth War Zone under the iron command of front-line commander Luo Zhuoying. For a grueling month and a half, the battle raged, the Japanese claiming the city at a staggering cost in lives. Chiang Kai-shek, his fury mounting, demanded a counterattack from the Ninth War Zone, but it crumbled into tragedy, over 20,000 souls lost, including Lieutenant General Chen Anbao, the indomitable commander of the 29th Army. Nanchang remained in enemy hands, fueling Chiang's rage like an inferno unchecked. Then, in May, the Japanese Kwantung Army clashed with Soviet and Mongolian forces in the epic conflagration at Nomonhan. What ignited a spark of grim satisfaction in Chiang was not merely the Japanese rout, with nearly 20,000 of their ranks obliterated, but the broader ripple: this Japan-Soviet inferno would heap pressure upon the invaders in China, weakening their grasp. As the war sank into its stalemate phase, Chiang turned his gaze inward, fiercely guarding his military strength while awaiting the winds of change. He clung to a core conviction: the essence of the War of Resistance boiled down to that single, unbreakable word—"resist." Troops could be sacrificed, territories forsaken, retreats endured when battles turned dire, but surrender was unthinkable. As long as resistance endured, the nation would hold its place among the world's powers, and its leaders their rightful thrones. In time, the tides of international intrigue would shift; the imperialist giants, driven by their own insatiable interests, would not stand idly by as China fell to Japan's maw. With resolve hardening like steel, Chiang Kai-shek strode back to his imposing desk and seized the telephone, dialing Xu Yongchang, the Minister of Military Orders. His voice cut through the line with unyielding command: instruct Deputy Chief of Staff Bai Chongxi, currently in the Ninth War Zone dissecting the bitter lessons of the Nanchang debacle, to hasten and aid Chen Cheng in crafting ironclad military deployments against the looming Japanese "Xiang-Gan Operation" and submit them without delay. As the last defiant ray of sunlight plunged below the horizon, the sprawl of Chongqing's urban expanse succumbed to an enveloping darkness, a shroud of uncertainty. Since the government had fled southward, Chongqing had become a relentless target for Japanese bombers, their payloads raining death and devastation in waves of tragedy. By night, the city enforced ironclad blackout controls, its citizens huddling in fear behind heavy curtains, their lives reduced to whispers in the shadows. Chiang Kai-shek's mind drifted to the pre-war nights of the mountain city, when thousands of lights danced like stars upon the river's rippling waves. A deep, weary sigh escaped him, carrying the burden of a leader who refused to yield. Far from the shadowed balconies of Chongqing, as China's War of Resistance Against Japan plunged into its harrowing third year, the misty haven of Guilin clung to its gentle, rain-soaked serenity, a fragile oasis amid the chaos of a nation torn asunder. Farmers, oblivious to the headlines screaming from distant newspapers, trudged barefoot through the lush fields, guiding massive water buffaloes with their backward-curving horns and deceptively gentle temperaments. Verdant tea groves blanketed the undulating hills, their leaves whispering secrets to the wind, while breezes carried the haunting, sweet-and-sour melodies of mountain songs that seemed to defy the encroaching shadows of war. Those weary souls fleeing the bloodied front lines stumbled into this paradise, their eyes widening in awe, as if they had crossed into a dream untouched by the nightmare raging beyond. Nestled in the northwestern suburbs of the city, the Guilin Office pulsed with the raw energy of command, its operations post concealed within a colossal karst cave, a labyrinth of nature's own fortifications. Amid the jagged stalagmites and dripping stalactites, wires snaked like veins, cables coiled in tense anticipation, and radio antennas reached out like desperate fingers grasping for signals. These were the nerves of war, linking this hidden nerve center to the smoke-choked, blood-drenched front lines where heroes and horrors collided in the unyielding struggle for resistance. Deputy Chief of Staff of the Military Affairs Commission and Director of the Guilin Office—Bai Chongxi—unfolded the telegram folder thrust into his hands by his confidential staff, his heart pounding with the weight of destiny: "To Director Bai in Guilin: Telegram received. Deploy operations according to Plan A. Zhongzheng" Before departing Changsha, the Second Department had already whispered warnings of the Japanese horde's intent to strike southward, and fatefully, an urgent call from Xu Yongchang had demanded the swift forging of a battle plan to confront the enemy. As Bai Chongxi devoured the enemy intelligence, a bold strategy ignited in his mind like a flare in the darkness. Chen Cheng, the steadfast Commander of the Ninth War Zone, championed the tried-and-true tactic of successive resistance, but with a grim twist: retreat would be capped north of Changsha. Front-line troops would grind down the Japanese invaders, bleeding them dry before slipping to the east and west flanks. There, they would pounce on the enemy's exposed sides as the foes pressed southward, culminating in a devastating annihilation beneath the walls of Changsha with the aid of the garrison. This blueprint minimized troop movements and promised a swift, brutal clash. Yet Chen Cheng, burdened by his dual role as Minister of the Political Department of the Military Affairs Commission, had delegated command to Xue Yue as acting Ninth War Zone Commander. In heated deliberations, Xue Yue tilted toward Chen's vision, his resolve echoing the caution of survival. But Bai Chongxi, his strategic mind a whirlwind of innovation, saw a bolder path through the storm. The Japanese forces lurking in the Wuhan area were fractured, split between the Yangtze's north and south, facing off against China's formidable heavy troops. Though intelligence on the scale of their assault remained shrouded in mystery, Bai knew their drawable forces couldn't exceed half their might, and their endurance in sustained combat would falter like a dying flame. "To swallow the attackers whole, the battlefield must be vast and unforgiving, our forces luring them deeper while retreating to the Hengyang area, stretching the enemy thin across a sprawling 200-kilometer wasteland." There, the invaders would wither in passivity, their food and ammunition lines stretched to breaking. Then, in a masterful stroke, troops from the Jiuling and Mufu Mountains would surge westward, while those west of the Xiang River drove eastward, severing every land and water escape route in a vise of total annihilation. Both plans stood as ironclad fortresses of logic, each unassailable in its reasoning, and were dispatched simultaneously to Chiang Kai-shek, the arbiter of China's fate. By rank and protocol, Bai's vision claimed the mantle of Plan A, while Chen's bore the label of Plan B. Bai Chongxi had voiced his conviction and released it to the winds, content to let Chiang's judgment prevail. Bai Chongxi was a master of strategy, whispered among allies as the "Little Zhuge," his intellect a weapon as sharp as any blade. Yet Chen Cheng shared Chiang's Zhejiang roots and the unbreakable bonds of Huangpu camaraderie, drawing him even closer in the inner circle of trust. On such pivotal matters, Bai Chongxi often chose the path of restraint, yielding rather than clashing in futile strife. Five agonizing days after the plans vanished into the ether, Chiang's telegram pierced the tension, affirming the adoption of Plan A. A surge of quiet triumph coursed through Bai Chongxi as he signed the missive and strode toward the operations map, his steps echoing with purpose. While strategic minds clashed in hidden caves and distant villas, the front lines pulsed with the raw grit of soldiers readying for battle. Guan Linzheng had been assigned a mount since 1930, when he became commander of the 1st Regiment of the 2nd Training Division, during the Central Plains War between Chiang, Feng, and Yan. He led the regiment to cover the retreat of the division's main force under Zhang Zhizhong. Pursued by several times their number of Feng-Yan troops, they fought while retreating in dire straits. From night to dawn, heavy fog descended, obscuring visibility beyond dozens of paces. Guan Linzheng's chestnut horse suddenly neighed loudly and charged back toward the pursuers. After trying to rein it in unsuccessfully, Guan simply ordered the troops to countercharge into the fog. Shouts of killing filled the air, gunfire intense. The Feng-Yan troops, unclear of the situation in the fog, thought Chiang reinforcements had arrived and ordered a retreat. By the time the fog cleared, they were gone. Guan's bold cunning successfully completed the cover mission, and he was promoted to brigade commander of the division's 2nd Brigade after the war. In July 1932, during Chiang Kai-shek's fourth encirclement of the Hubei-Henan-Anhui Soviet, Guan Linzheng was brigade commander of the 4th Army's Independent Brigade. In battle, he was surrounded by Red Army troops led by Chen Geng and Cai Shenyi of the Red 25th Army Corps in the Anhui town of Zhuanfo Temple. His unit suffered heavy casualties, and a beloved horse was killed, leaving him distressed for a long time. With the outbreak of the War of Resistance, Guan Linzheng's military career entered its golden age. He believed this was truly raising an army of justice, fighting for the people and the nation. After promotions, though equipped with cars, he always kept a warhorse, often riding to survey terrain, inspect work, and command battles. In spare moments, he personally exercised and groomed the horse. That day, he led several staff on horseback to the Xin Qiang River front line, dismounting on the southern bank. 52nd Army Commander Zhang Yaoming and 195th Division Commander Qin Yizhi were waiting. According to the Ninth War Zone deployment, the 15th Army Group had positioned Zhang Yaoming's 52nd Army and Xia Chuzhong's 79th Army, a formidable force of six divisions along the southern bank of the Xin Qiang River, stretching from Xin Qiang to Maishi beyond the provincial border. This ironclad first line of defense spanned over 100 kilometers, a vast bulwark against the gathering storm of invasion. Fifty kilometers to the south, Chen Pei's 37th Army, with its Divisions 60 and 95, held the Miluo River from Miluo to Pingjiang as the unyielding second line, ready to absorb any breach. Meanwhile, Li Jue's 70th Army, commanding Divisions 19 and 107 along the eastern bank of the Xiang River, was deployed north and south of Xiangyin, fiercely guarding the critical landing points like Yingtian, points that could spell victory or catastrophe. 195th Division Commander Qin Yizhi reported to Guan Linzheng with a voice charged with resolve: troop morale soared like a battle cry, fortifications stood complete and impenetrable, and the army's slogan for this fateful clash thundered: "Fight with the prestige of Taierzhuang!" The division's mobilization slogan echoed even fiercer: "Win fame in one battle!" Guan Linzheng nodded with grim satisfaction toward Zhang Yaoming, his eyes gleaming with the fire of shared history. Guan had once commanded the 52nd Army himself, leading it through a gauntlet of brilliant, blood-soaked battles on the anti-Japanese front. As the Japanese hordes prepared to surge across the Xin Qiang River southward, this was the first, most perilous barrier, a crucible where legends would be forged or shattered. He had entrusted his most loyal unit to the point of greatest impact, knowing full well the stakes. Zhang Yaoming and the division commanders, who had marched at his side for years through hellfire, understood the gravity: Commander Guan was setting an unassailable example, issuing orders that rippled through the ranks, no one could afford the slightest lapse, or face the merciless blade of military law! "Who's on the north bank?" Guan Linzheng and the others sat on the hard earth, the weight of impending war pressing down; he pointed to the map's symbols for forward positions across the river, his finger tracing lines of fate. "Guarding the Bijia Mountain position is the reinforced 3rd Battalion of the 195th Division's 131st Regiment under Qin Yizhi," Zhang Yaoming replied without hesitation, his tone steady as stone. "Who's on the north bank?" Guan Linzheng repeated as if he hadn't heard, his voice a low rumble, demanding precision in the face of chaos. Zhang Yaoming hesitated slightly, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face, and Qin Yizhi stepped in: "3rd Battalion Commander Shi Enhua, Huangpu 8th Class." The Central Military Academy had held its first five classes in Guangzhou's Huangpu, commonly called Huangpu Military Academy. Afterward, the school moved several times, but students continued using the Huangpu name, partly to inherit the revolutionary spirit against imperialism and feudalism from Huangpu's founding, and partly to indicate their central orthodoxy. Army generals, especially the "old Huangpu" big brothers, approved this practice, calling it Huangpu no matter where the school was. Guan Linzheng glared at Zhang Yaoming, his gaze like sharpened steel, then pressed his knee and rose to his feet. Guan's left knee had been shattered by a bullet in 1925 during the Eastern Expedition against Chen Jiongming, a wound that had nearly claimed his leg and his future. Doctors had decreed amputation to save his life, but Liao Zhongkai, the party representative, had visited the wounded and intervened strenuously, preventing it. Otherwise, there would be no later glory for Guan Linzheng. After careful treatment and diligent exercise, the leg's function mostly recovered, though rising from a squat was slightly difficult. Zhang Yaoming reached out to help, but Guan pushed him away with a fierce independence born of countless battles. The group descended to the riverbank and stood in heavy silence, the air thick with unspoken tension. The horses either stood patiently with heads held high, vigilant sentinels, or lowered them to sniff the grass, casually plucking some to hold in their lips, oblivious to the human storm brewing. The Xin Qiang River, an unnamed small river that had flowed quietly for countless years, had no great turbid waves in flood seasons and still shallow clear ripples in dry periods. It flowed peacefully from its source to Dongting Lake over dozens of kilometers. At this moment, it reflected the figures and thoughts of several soldiers, utterly unaware that in a dozen days, its name would leap to the front pages of newspapers nationwide, baptized in blood and etched into history. Amid these preparations on the front lines, deeper internal conflicts simmered among the high command. Xue Yue regretted taking the position of provincial chairman, a decision that now haunted him like a specter from the battlefield's edge. After the nationwide shock of the "Great Fire of Changsha," Zhang Zhizhong was punished with "suspension with retention," continuing to handle daily affairs amid the ashes. He sent several telegrams requesting resignation from the provincial chairmanship, expressing to the Executive Yuan his "shameless guilt and deep pain." On January 17, 1939, the Chongqing Executive Yuan passed a resolution to reorganize the Hunan Provincial Government. That night, Zhang Zhizhong received Chiang Kai-shek's telegram instructing him to hand over work and report to Chongqing. In December 1938, when the Military Affairs Commission issued the order for Xue Yue to act as Ninth War Zone Commander, Chiang Kai-shek personally spoke with Xue, asking: "Brother Boling, do you think this arrangement is acceptable?" Boling was Xue Yue's courtesy name. Chiang, nine years older, addressed him as brother in private. Xue Yue said: "With Changsha in such a state, I truly lack the ability to handle such a major war zone task." Chiang Kai-shek understood Xue's implication about the disunity of military and political affairs making military work difficult. He said: "You go first; we can consider unifying military and political affairs later." According to He Yaozu, then director of the Military Affairs Commission Office who witnessed this: "My impression was that Xue Yue didn't want to avoid the acting commander role, but wanted to combine military and political powers. Chiang knew this, telling me 'If he's willing, let him do it,' words Chiang said to many seeking positions." On February 1, 1939, the Nationalist Government officially appointed Xue Yue as Chairman of the Hunan Provincial Committee of the Kuomintang and Chairman of Hunan Province. With party, government, and military powers combined, troubles followed incessantly, piling upon him like relentless enemy fire. As war zone commander, he first thought of the troops. Upon taking office, Xue implemented a policy to restrict market rice prices for military grain procurement, proposing "flat prices" to acquire grain cheaply, forcing merchants underground. Upon hearing this, Xue angrily summoned major rice merchants, reprimanded them, and ordered them to deliver quotas. The result: insufficient low-price rice, with black market prices rising daily. After half a year, sharp-tongued Hunanese nicknamed him "Xue Pinggui," a name that became household, a mocking whisper that cut deeper than any blade. Coincidentally, his father passed away. Whether Xue instructed it or subordinates "handled it," obituaries flew everywhere, sent to county-level units across the province. Each county had at least 20 units sending condolences, and higher-level cities and provincial units all sent, leading some to secretly calculate. After Xue Yue took charge in Hunan, his family members were transferred from other provinces, and arranging work according to their abilities was reasonable in that old society. His uncle-in-law Fang Xuefen became head of the Provincial Grain Bureau, brother-in-law Qiu Weiyi head of the Provincial Bank. His brother continued business, transporting Hunan rice to Guangdong for barter. Xue Yue's talents shone not in officialdom. Only before military maps, on battlefields of gunfire and flying shells, could one find the general-like Xue Yue; "heaven-born talent" was for warfare. This descendant of an ordinary farming family in Lechang County, Guangdong, who entered Huangpu Army Primary School at 10, became commander of Sun Yat-sen's bodyguard regiment's 1st Battalion at 24, and once carried a machine gun through hails of bullets to protect Madame Sun Soong Ching-ling from rebel encirclement, earned the nickname "Tiger Cub" in blood and fire. What propelled him to life's peak was the Battle of Changsha. On August 21, 1939, with war clouds over Changsha thickening like a noose, Xue Yue received telegrams and calls from Chiang Kai-shek, Bai Chongxi, and Chen Cheng. Chiang's telegram required immediate deployment according to "Plan A." Bai and Chen urged resolute implementation of the Chairman's instructions. Xue Yue stood motionless before the map, his mind a whirlwind of strategy and defiance. Many articles recalling Xue Yue mentioned his daily habit, or hobby, of studying maps; he could do so all day. With battles, he looked; without, he still studied avidly. Perhaps map-reading had evolved from a commander's work need to a professional soldier's spiritual requirement, a way to express emotions, dispel worries, a soldier's way of existence. After Chiang's order to execute "Plan A," rather than comparing plans on the map for stronger bases for his preferred view, he was organizing thoughts, adjusting emotions, and gathering courage in this soul's sanctuary. Hours later, he turned and called Chief of Staff Zhao Zili, dictating three reasons to persist with "Plan B," instructing him to draft a telegram directly to Chiang Kai-shek. He reminded Zhao that the wording should be forceful yet resilient, making the Chairman clearly feel his firm determination. The Ninth War Zone has sufficient forces and confidence to annihilate the Japanese north of Changsha. If our forces retreat to Hengyang, the Japanese 21st Army under Ando Toshikichi in Guangzhou (with 18th and 104th Divisions, Taiwan Brigade, and attached air units) might advance north along the Yue-Han Railway in support, forming a pincer on us, making the battle hard to control. Following Plan A and allowing the Japanese south would lead to Changsha's fall, exploited by enemy propaganda, causing adverse effects domestically and internationally. These three points presented the potential military and political disadvantages of Plan A as tangible, imminent dangers, more argumentative and unyieldingly firm than his original inclination toward "Plan B." Zhao Zili quickly noted the points, his pen flying across the page with the precision of a seasoned warrior, before retreating to the staff office to draft the telegram that could alter the course of battle. A top student of Huangpu's 6th Class, quick-witted and resourceful, Zhao had risen like a comet through the ranks after a few blistering campaigns, pinning the insignia of major general to his shoulders at the tender age of 31, a feat that stirred envy among his classmates like a storm in their hearts. Zhao Zili, of course, understood Xue Yue's true intent, piercing through the layers of strategy to the raw undercurrent of determination and unresolved fury. In May 1938, to avenge the stinging triumph at Taierzhuang, the Japanese had massed their forces in a vengeful storm, aiming to encircle and annihilate the Chinese main forces east of the Longhai Railway, striking from both east and north with ruthless precision. The northern route's 14th Division, under the cunning Dobashi Kenji, found itself surrounded in Lanfeng by a pantheon of fierce Chinese generals, Song Xilian, Yu Jishi, Hu Zongnan, Qiu Qingquan, Wang Yaowu, Li Hanlun, Gui Yongqing, Sun Tongxuan, and Shang Zhen, warriors whose names echoed like thunder across the battlefields. Chiang Kai-shek himself descended upon Zhengzhou to supervise the carnage, appointing Xue Yue as 1st Corps Commander to orchestrate the generals in a full-throttle offensive on the morning of May 25, with the ironclad goal of obliterating that longtime scourge of China and his 14th Division before the dawn of the 26th shattered the night. The odds were a gambler's dream: 150,000 elite Chinese troops against a mere 20,000 second-rate Japanese soldiers. Victory seemed not just possible, but inevitable; Chiang invited journalists to the front lines for live dispatches, while the Wuhan Political Department feverishly prepared celebrations for the "second great Taierzhuang victory." Chiang Kai-shek was exceptionally angry, his rage boiling over in orders that scorched the ranks, reprimanding army commanders for "inept command, cowardly actions, leading to low morale and hesitation," and that "most army, division, and brigade commanders lacked courage and self-motivation, prolonging the battle." After the Lanfeng Battle, Chiang ordered the dismissal and investigation of future Nationalist Navy Commander Gui Yongqing and 1950s Taiwan Army Commander and Provincial Chairman Huang Jie, and executed 88th Division Commander Long Muhan. But he did not hold Xue Yue accountable for leadership responsibility. For a highly self-respecting person, self-blame is more painful than others' blame. Thereafter, Xue Yue spent more time buried in maps, his eyes tracing lines of terrain like a man possessed, seeking a monumental battle to avenge his wounded pride and redeem his tarnished honor. On March 8, 1939, shortly after Xue Yue assumed the mantle of acting Ninth War Zone Commander, Chiang telegraphed him with urgent resolve: "To secure Nanchang and its rear lines, decide to strike first, take the offensive to thwart the enemy's intentions." Chiang valued Nanchang's strategic position, as did Okamura Yasuji, but Chiang was a step slow, his hesitation a fatal crack. The Japanese, wielding two divisions bolstered by the bulk of their army's tanks and artillery, seized the initiative like predators in the night, storming Nanchang before the Chinese heavy forces could muster. Chen Cheng remained the nominal Ninth War Zone Commander, relegating Xue Yue to a watchful perch in Changsha while entrusting the Nanchang front to his confidant Luo Zhuoying. Xue Yue haunted the command room day and night, monitoring the inferno through frantic phone calls and telegrams, his discomfort gnawing at him like an unhealed wound. He bore witness to Nanchang's fall and the counterattack's agonizing collapse. The Nanchang Battle loss was not Xue's fault, but it scarred the Ninth War Zone under his watch, with generals' whispers spreading like venom, knotting his heart in a tangle of regret and resolve. Months of intense map study and on-site inspections had etched Hunan's terrain into Xue Yue's very soul, birthing a strategy that was bold, unique, and brimming with promise—a phoenix rising from the ashes of defeat. But as Zhao Zili understood with crystal clarity, Commander Xue's telegram to Chiang, a forceful plea to reverse the decision, sprang less from cold military "strategy" than from the seething "resentment" accumulated through repeated failures and humiliations, a fire that demanded reckoning. With Chen Cheng's help, Chiang finally agreed to change the plan, bending to the tide of persuasion. Xue Yue was delighted, his spirit soaring like a liberated eagle; Bai Chongxi was angry, his frustration simmering like a storm held at bay. After the battle erupted, Bai, dispatched by Chiang to assist Xue Yue, arrived at the war zone headquarters on Yuelu Mountain atop the Xiang River's west bank in Changsha but remained silent like a mute bodhisattva, his words locked away in disapproval. Even decades later, in his Memoirs of Bai Chongxi, discussing the First Battle of Changsha, he still did not consider it a victory, saying the Japanese "conducted a planned retreat without much loss, which is a fact." I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. In 1939, amid the Second Sino-Japanese War's stalemate phase, Chiang Kai-shek received intelligence on Japan's Xiang-Gan Operation, aimed at pressuring Chongqing through military advances in Hunan. Deputy Chief Bai Chongxi proposed Plan A for a deep-lure annihilation south of Changsha, while Chen Cheng and Xue Yue favored Plan B for resistance north of the city. After tense debates, Chiang approved Plan B, influenced by Xue's insistence to avoid Changsha's fall and counter Japanese propaganda.
Your home is either working for you or against you. Most people have no idea which one it is.Cliff Tan has spent his career at the intersection of architecture and feng shui — and what he's uncovered is less mystical than you'd think, and more powerful than you'd expect. This isn't about lucky charms or superstition. It's about why you can't sleep, why your relationship feels stuck, why you dread sitting at your desk, and why the moment you walk through your front door, something just feels… off.In this episode, Tracy and Cliff break down the hidden logic behind the spaces you live in — from where your bed is pointing to what your entrance is telling your nervous system before you even take your shoes off. Once you understand what your environment is actually communicating to your brain, you can't unsee it.And the good news? Small shifts change everything.Find Cliff Tan: Website: https://www.dearmodern.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearmodern/ Book: Feng Shui ModernConnect with Tracy:Website: https://tracyduhs.com/Hydration Shop: https://sanctuarysd.com/Instagram: @tracyduhsFlow FAM Community: https://tracyduhs.com/join-flow-fam/Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:52 - What feng shui is & the top things Cliff looks at in your home 05:02 - Bed placement, Earth polarity & magnetic fields 09:16 - Bedroom colors, artwork & creating a calm sleep environment 11:59 - Feng shui for love: how your bedroom layout affects relationships 14:47 - Designing a home workspace that inspires focus & success 18:10 - Calming the nervous system: entrances, clutter & knowing yourself 27:48 - why open space in the home unlocks creativity & movement 32:47 - The front door as the mouth of the home41:31 - Mirrors, traveling tips & where to find Cliff Tan
Your home is either working for you or against you. Most people have no idea which one it is.Cliff Tan has spent his career at the intersection of architecture and feng shui — and what he's uncovered is less mystical than you'd think, and more powerful than you'd expect. This isn't about lucky charms or superstition. It's about why you can't sleep, why your relationship feels stuck, why you dread sitting at your desk, and why the moment you walk through your front door, something just feels… off.In this episode, Tracy and Cliff break down the hidden logic behind the spaces you live in — from where your bed is pointing to what your entrance is telling your nervous system before you even take your shoes off. Once you understand what your environment is actually communicating to your brain, you can't unsee it.And the good news? Small shifts change everything.Find Cliff Tan: Website: https://www.dearmodern.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearmodern/ Book: Feng Shui ModernConnect with Tracy:Website: https://tracyduhs.com/Hydration Shop: https://sanctuarysd.com/Instagram: @tracyduhsFlow FAM Community: https://tracyduhs.com/join-flow-fam/Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:52 - What feng shui actually is & the top 3 things Cliff looks at in your home 05:02 - Bed placement, Earth polarity & magnetic fields 09:16 - Bedroom colors, artwork & creating a calm sleep environment 11:59 - Feng shui for love: how your bedroom layout affects relationships 14:47 - Designing a home workspace that inspires focus & success 18:10 - Calming the nervous system: entrances, clutter & knowing yourself 27:48 - Negative space: why open space in the home unlocks creativity & movement 32:47 - The front door as the mouth of the home: color, direction & guardians 41:31 - Mirrors, traveling tips & where to find Cliff Tan
On this episode, host Dr Pasquale Iannone discusses one of the finest action films ever made, John Woo's masterpiece of Hong Kong 'Heroic Bloodshed' Hard Boiled (1992). The film has recently been restored in 4K and is about to be released in a special edition box set courtesy of Arrow Video.Starring Chow Yun Fat and Tony Leung, Hard Boiled tells of a hard drinking Hong Kong cop Yuen (aka Tequila) and his investigation into a violent arms smuggling ring.Joining Pasquale to discuss the film is Dr Lin Feng. Lin is Associate Professor in Film Studies at the University of Leicester. She specialises in Chinese-language cinemas, East Asian film history and her other interests include transnational popular screen cultures, and cinematic representation and reception of gender and race. Lin's monograph Chow Yun Fat and the Territories of Hong Kong Stardom was published by Edinburgh University Press in 2017, while her co-edited collection Renegotiating Film Genres in East Asian Cinemas and Beyond came out in 2020 via Palgrave MacMillan. Lin has also contributed a video interview to the upcoming Hard Boiled Blu-ray release.Lin and Pasquale talk about the landscape of Hong Kong cinema in the 80s and 90s, the career of director John Woo as well as the star image of actor Chow Yun Fat. They then discuss some key scenes from Hard Boiled, exploring the film's distinctive action scenes as well as elements such as performance and costume design.
Discipleship isn't a program or a checklist. It's a lifelong journey of connecting with Jesus, growing in him, and living on mission as you go about your everyday life. Matthew 28:16-20
This week, we're thrilled to welcome Susan, the winner of last fall's listener giveaway for a mini feng shui home consultation. Together, we explore the emotional and practical realities of living alone in a large home — and how clutter, unfinished projects, and constant change can subtly impact how we feel each day.Through the lens of feng shui, we discuss the importance of creating a space that supports clarity, groundedness, and ease. We share practical, accessible shifts to help Susan transform her home into a place that feels harmonious, supportive, and truly aligned with her life.What we talk about in this episode:-The essential need for calmness and clarity in life -How different spaces in a home can evoke different feelings-Feng shui principles that can help improve energy flow in a home-How clutter can create emotional and physical overwhelm-The front door is crucial for welcoming positive energy-Windows as a representation of clarity and vision in life…and much more!Mentioned in this episode:2026 Feng Shui Amulet for Protection and LuckOur Feng Shui Energy Map EkitRegister for our free & on-demand Feng Shui plant workshop, available for a limited timeHarmonize your Home with Feng Shui PlantsEnhance your qi, prosperity and wellnessThanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!-Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! -Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.-Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.-Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.Time stamps for this episode:[04:11] Home Environment and Emotional Connection[06:59] Feng Shui Insights and Home Layout[09:52] Understanding Clutter and Its Impact[13:00] The Importance of Command Position in Spaces[16:11] Career and Workspace Dynamics[19:12] Addressing Eye Issues and Window Clarity[21:58] Exploring Doors and Their Symbolism[25:06] Future Plans and Home Utilization[27:57] Final Thoughts and RecommendationsMORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HERENEW EPISODES OF THE HOLISTIC SPACES PODCAST BY MINDFUL DESIGN ARE AVAILABLE EVERY MONDAY.Thanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.MORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HEREORDER OUR NEW BOOK HERE
On Thursday afternoon, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz walked into a leading Chinese robotics company in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, for a tour and a robotic performance before wrapping up a two-day China visit that was both fruitful and significant.At Unitree, Merz watched the same martial arts performance by quadruped robots that was showcased during the 2026 Spring Festival Gala, which was livestreamed to hundreds of millions of viewers at home and abroad. Merz showed interest in the company's robotic hands and quadruped robots, learning about their applications and development.The one-hour tour, part of Merz's first trip to China since assuming office in May last year, demonstrated the two countries' shared desire to seize new opportunities for future development.Merz was the first foreign leader received by China in the Year of the Horse. Upon his arrival on Wednesday, he wrote in Chinese in a social media post: "Berlin and Beijing are nearly 7,500 kilometers apart. For many years, we have been very happy to bridge this distance. For me, it is very important to maintain and deepen our diplomatic and economic relations. To achieve this goal, we need open channels of dialogue."President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang met separately and held talks with Merz on Wednesday. Together with over 60 Chinese and German business leaders, Merz and Li also attended a symposium of the China-Germany economic advisory committee. The two countries inked a number of cooperative agreements in green transition, customs, sports and media. They also issued a joint media statement in which the two sides agreed to properly resolve each other's concerns through dialogue.Speaking to reporters at the end of his trip, Merz said he witnessed and supported the launch of new business partnerships during the visit."For me, it was important to gain a firsthand impression of the country, including through discussions with government leaders and business representatives," he said, noting that he was impressed by China's high level of technological development.For example, he said he was impressed by "Mercedes-Benz's advances in autonomous driving in China, Unitree's progress in robotics, and companies producing in China for the global market".Siemens CEO Roland Busch, who was among senior executives from about 30 leading German companies accompanying Merz, said Hangzhou is a highly innovative city — "perhaps the Tech Valley of China".Busch noted that China is seeking to boost productivity through automation and digitalization, areas in which Siemens holds strong global advantages — in industrial software and automation.As 2026 marks the start of China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period, the world's two major economies are expected to foster greater synergy between the plan and Germany's development strategies, in order to achieve mutually beneficial cooperation at higher standards, analysts said.Michael Schumann, chairman of the German Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade, said China's rapid progress in robotics and industrial artificial intelligence — visible during Merz's visit to Unitree — creates significant opportunities to combine German strengths in precision engineering, automation and industrial software with China's scale and speed of technological deployment."With continued dialogue and practical cooperation in future industries, Sino-German business ties can contribute meaningfully to global technological progress and sustainable industrial transformation, for the benefit of people in both our countries and beyond," Schumann said.Feng Zhongping, director of the Institute of European Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said Merz's visit shows a return to a pragmatic and rational approach in Germany's China policy."Merz's visit sent a signal that as the world's third-largest economy, Germany sees broad space for cooperation with China, the second-largest economy, and is seeking to expand cooperation grounded in mutual benefit," Feng said.He added that German officials and business leaders are willing to better understand China's upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan, including its development priorities and strategic focus areas, in order to identify new opportunities for collaboration.Jin Ling, director of the Department for Global Governance and International Organization Studies at the China Institute of International Studies, said Merz's visit carries significance against the backdrop of debate within Europe over how to approach China.By emphasizing partnership and a cooperative tone, Merz has sent a signal aimed at filtering out "noise" and external interference, she said.Merz is the latest in a string of Western leaders to visit Beijing within just a few months, following visits by French President Emmanuel Macron, Irish Taoiseach, or prime minister, Micheal Martin, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer."These visits reflect recognition of China's global role and the opportunities presented by its market. Missing out on the Chinese market would mean missing out on opportunities," Jin said.
In this episode of the Award-winning PRS Journal Club Podcast, 2026 Resident Ambassadors to the PRS Editorial Board – Lucas Harrison, Christopher Kalmar, and Priyanka Naidu- and special guest, Scott P. Bartlett, MD, discuss the following articles from the February 2026 issue: "Anthropometrics versus Experts' Subjective Analysis of Cleft Severity and PSIO Outcomes in Unilateral Clefts: A Proposal for a New Grading" by Tanikawa, Chong, Fisher, et al. "A Modified Method for Ear Projection in Auricular Reconstruction: Split-Thickness Skin Graft Combined with Retroauricular Fascia Flap for Postauricular Coverage" by Li, Feng, Hu, et al. "Total Ear Reconstruction with Costal Cartilage in Challenging Cases: Silicone-Induced Vascularized Capsule Technique" by Park. Special guest Dr. Scott P. Bartlett. Dr. Bartlett is one of the world's leading craniofacial surgeons and serves as Director of the Craniofacial Program and an attending surgeon in the Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Oral Surgery at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. He is also a Professor of Surgery at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and holds the prestigious Mary Downs Endowed Chair in Pediatric Craniofacial Treatment and Research at CHOP. Dr. Bartlett's clinical expertise encompasses congenital and acquired deformities of the skull, face, jaws, and ears, as well as complex facial aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. He served two terms as Section Editor for the Pediatric Craniofacial Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. His research portfolio includes landmark contributions to facial growth and development, age-related facial structural changes, non-surgical correction of ear deformities, and the use of advanced imaging and implant materials to improve operative planning and long-term outcomes. READ the articles discussed in this podcast as well as free related content: https://bit.ly/JCFeb26Collection The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.
Are you ready for some insanity!? We have the episode for you.We've got three INSANE news stories this week, so I'm inventing a new game just for these:Game 1 - Have I Got Absurd News For You I've got three news stories, all our players have to do is tell me which one I've judged to be the most insane story of the week. Story 1 - Naked Man Steals An Ambulance With a Patient Inside https://www.wsaw.com/2026/02/19/suspect-identified-stolen-ambulance-chase-with-patient-still-inside/ Story 2 - 'Ridiculous' Plan Developed at Florida Zoo Saves Wild Rhino's Eye in Africa https://apnews.com/article/rhino-eye-treatment-florida-zimbabwe-dcf53d149e13cc077c2739999d2d6d9e Story 3 - Chinese Woman Adjusts Community Mirror for Better Feng Shui, Causes Series of Traffic Accidents https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/trending-china/article/3341528/china-woman-adjusts-community-traffic-mirror-better-feng-shui-causing-series-accidents Game 2 - One Thing or Another I've got two lists of ten things, and our players just have to tell me whether it's one thing or another. Each player gets to guess at half of each list, and whoever gets more correct after both lists wins the game and earns two episode points. Game 3 - 4 Out of 5 Dentists I've got five surveys asking questions like "what percentage of Americans believe in ghosts", and one player will guess the exact percentage - if they are within ten points high or low, they'll get a point. The other player will guess whether the actual answer is higher or lower, and they'll get a point if they're correct. After all five surveys, the player with the highest score wins the game and gets three episode points.Promos From the Middle Proudly Sponsored by Peace, Love, & Budhttps://www.plbud.com/WeedStockShoutouts to our Patrons; Mexi, Justin B, Kristin F ,Jeramey F ,Flaose, Todd, Jim, Flaos, Bridget F., David M., Dave A, Erin S, Donna/Colin Maggs,The GateLeapers, Kacey S., William M., Crunchie, DJ Xanthus, Crystal D., Jeff S, Gina W., 8Bit, Matt.Founding Members of @OddPodsMedia https://www.patreon.com/BFYTWShow Music by @KeroseneLetter and @Mexigun Our Merch Available by contacting us.https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyJG-PDn6su32Et_eSiC6RQA MidnightSmoke Productionhttps://bfytwpod.com/?p=1644Show #308 We're Not Lost Anymore
Lin Feng cuts a path of devastation through the Seven Capital Cities of Heaven in search for the final Spirit Orb of Chiyou. When it is not promised in Kun-Lun as Loki promised, Feng sets his sites on Earth and his brother Lin Lie, the Iron Fist.Issue Covered: Deadly Hands of Kun-Lun Issue One
In this episode of the Holistic Spaces podcast, we explore the meaning of the Lunar New Year and what the Year of the Fire Horse brings. We share the story of the Great Race—the origin of the 12 zodiac animals—highlighting the clever rat, the steady ox, the cooperative ram, and the deeper wisdom woven into this tradition. It's a playful but powerful way to connect to the cultural roots of the Lunar New Year.We also share simple Feng Shui tips to help you welcome the new year with intention: bringing in red through flowers or table décor, placing nine fresh oranges in the kitchen to invite abundance, and energetically clearing your home to release stagnant qi. These small rituals help create a vibrant, supportive space as we step into the Year of the Fire Horse.What we talk about in this episode:-The Great Race that determined the order of the zodiac animals-Adding red to your celebrations to symbolize and welcome good fortune-Bringing in fresh oranges to represent wealth and abundance-Sweeping your home to clear stagnant energy-The unique traits of each zodiac animal in 2026…and much more!Mentioned in this episode:2026 Feng Shui Amulet for Protection and LuckOur Feng Shui Energy Map EkitThanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!-Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! -Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.-Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.-Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.Time stamps for this episode:[01:47] The story of the great race[10:29] Feng shui tips for celebrating the new year[17:34] Conclusion and additional resourcesMORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HERENEW EPISODES OF THE HOLISTIC SPACES PODCAST BY MINDFUL DESIGN ARE AVAILABLE EVERY MONDAY.Thanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.MORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HEREORDER OUR NEW BOOK HERE
In this episode of the Award-winning PRS Journal Club Podcast, 2026 Resident Ambassadors to the PRS Editorial Board – Lucas Harrison, Christopher Kalmar, and Priyanka Naidu- and special guest, Scott P. Bartlett, MD, discuss the following articles from the February 2026 issue: "A Modified Method for Ear Projection in Auricular Reconstruction: Split-Thickness Skin Graft Combined with Retroauricular Fascia Flap for Postauricular Coverage" by Li, Feng, Hu, et al. Read the article for FREE: https://bit.ly/EarElevationRecon Special guest Dr. Scott P. Bartlett. Dr. Bartlett is one of the world's leading craniofacial surgeons and serves as Director of the Craniofacial Program and an attending surgeon in the Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Oral Surgery at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. He is also a Professor of Surgery at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and holds the prestigious Mary Downs Endowed Chair in Pediatric Craniofacial Treatment and Research at CHOP. Dr. Bartlett's clinical expertise encompasses congenital and acquired deformities of the skull, face, jaws, and ears, as well as complex facial aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. He served two terms as Section Editor for the Pediatric Craniofacial Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. His research portfolio includes landmark contributions to facial growth and development, age-related facial structural changes, non-surgical correction of ear deformities, and the use of advanced imaging and implant materials to improve operative planning and long-term outcomes. READ the articles discussed in this podcast as well as free related content: https://bit.ly/JCFeb26Collection The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.
China's president, Xi Jinping, has become the most all-powerful leader of the communist state since Mao, and his grip on the country has been strengthened by technology and China's growing economic and military might. The United States might have belatedly realized it was in a great-powers competition with the People's Republic, but we might still be failing to understand how Chinese people themselves are dealing with—and resisting—their authoritarian government. Award-winning journalist Emily Feng, author of the new book Let Only Red Flowers Bloom, has documented China's state oppression of those who fail to conform to Xi Jinping's definition of who is “Chinese.” She has profiled nearly two dozen people who are pushing back. They include a Uyghur family, separated as China detains hundreds of thousands of their fellow Uyghurs in camps; human rights lawyers fighting to defend civil liberties in the face of incredible odds; a teacher from Inner Mongolia forced to make hard choices because of his support of his mother tongue; and a Hong Kong fugitive trying to find a new home and live in freedom. Join us as Feng reveals dramatic human stories of resistance and survival in a country that is increasingly closing itself off to the world—even as it flexes its muscles on the world stage. Feng illustrates what it is like to run against the grain in China, and the myriad ways people are trying to survive, with dignity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The two biggest nuclear superpowers are now without limits on arsenals for first time in decades; will the US receive a frosty welcome at Winter Olympics? Feng shui-obsessed driver causes accidents in Shanghai. Adam Gilchrist shares details on these stories with Lester Kiewit. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is a podcast of the CapeTalk breakfast show. This programme is your authentic Cape Town wake-up call. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is informative, enlightening and accessible. The team’s ability to spot & share relevant and unusual stories make the programme inclusive and thought-provoking. Don’t miss the popular World View feature at 7:45am daily. Listen out for #LesterInYourLounge which is an outside broadcast – from the home of a listener in a different part of Cape Town - on the first Wednesday of every month. This show introduces you to interesting Capetonians as well as their favourite communities, habits, local personalities and neighbourhood news. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Good Morning CapeTalk with Lester Kiewit broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/xGkqLbT or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/f9Eeb7i Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you believe in astrology? Palm reading? Physiognomy? Feng shui? The Chinese tradition of reading facial features and palms is long and storied; while the practice is not as widespread as it once was, the practice still exists. Listen in as two young travelers have their own fortunes revealed in today's ChinesePod lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1859
In this episode Randel and Owen continue their talk with Marin Spivack about Chen Taiji training training with Chen Yu, Feng ZhiQiang, and, Gene Chen.From his website:"Marin Spivack holds a Bachelors in Asian Studies from University of California, Berkeley, with a focus on Political Science of China. He is proficient in conversational Mandarin and well versed in the cultural nuances and lifestyle of mainland China and gongfu culture specifically which made such an unlikely journey in gongfu possible.In 2002 he became a formal disciple of Chenyu, training the ancestral practices taught to him by his father, Chen Zhaokui. This fist consists of the direct family methods passed to him from his father Chen FaKe which Chen Zhaokui made popular and practiced to a high skill. Training the traditional way at Chenyu's home during years living in Beijing Marin Spivack was fortunate to have gained a significant amount of detail and foundation to himself practice this art to fruition and acquire the ability to pass it on accurately. He continues to develop, deepen and share that system of gongfu in traditional classes in the the Boston area, U.S.A."WebsiteInstagramYouTube#kungfu #gongfu #teaching #podcast #taiji #taichi #martialarts #wushu #kungfuconversations #china #chentaiji #chentaichi #baguazhang #yangtaiji #qigong #chenyu #fengzhiqiang
Unexplained Inc. would like to welcome Joan for her first solo appearance on the show after joining a panel last summer.Joan Widen always had a sense of knowing. She would see and hear spirits and have vivid dreams and premonitions – that was her “normal”. Though not fully understanding her gifts, as the years passed, she felt there was more to discover about who she really was and needed to seek out her purpose. Her efforts to better understand her talents have led her tovdevelop and expand her skills as a Intuitive Life Coach, Reiki (Master/Teacher), Pranic Healing, Crystal Healing, Feng Shui, House/Office Clearing, and Mediumship. Joan is able to help you connect with passed loved ones and clear energy blocks to help you move forward with purpose so you can achieve what you want out of life.www.joanwiden.comInstagram @journeywithjoanwidenTikTok @clairvoyantmediumYouTube @joanwidenclairvoyantmedium Here are some of the topics discussed in this episode:- Joan's psychic and unexplainable experiences in childhood- A visit form light beings during a healing session- Predictions for 2026...they may surprise and on August 12th are we losing gravity or ascending?- Feng-shui and the provocative frequency of the colour orange.- Spiritual AI- The Tao of Alice Cooper...yes you heard that right...plus so much more!Connect with Unexplained Inc. here:https://www.unexplainedinc.com/Connect with Unexplained Inc. and follow on Rumble:https://rumble.com/user/Unexplainedinc
Turn online alignment into an offline community — join us at TheWayFwrd.com to connect with like-minded people near you.Feng shui asks a simple question most people never consider: is your space supporting the life you want to live?I've spent years questioning the hidden systems shaping our health and freedom, and this conversation with Danijela Saponjic opened a door most people never think to walk through. Feng shui, environmental health, and energy flow quietly influence your nervous system, your relationships, and your ability to create a life that actually feels aligned.This episode goes far beyond aesthetics or surface-level decluttering. We get into how your home functions as a living interface between your body, your mind, and the world around you. We talk about why ancient systems understood holistic health as incomplete without addressing space, how conscious living begins at home, and why ignoring your environment keeps you fighting the same internal battles on repeat.If you care about sovereignty, healing, and building a life that supports rather than drains you, this conversation will challenge how you see your bedroom, kitchen, office, and the land you live on. This is about reclaiming agency by understanding the structures you exist inside every day, and learning how to make them work for you instead of against you.You'll Learn:[00:00] Introduction[07:13] Space is the forgotten fourth health pillar of ancient traditions[12:57] The universal feng shui basics that work across all home types [19:01] How to declutter with children in the house[35:55] Counteracting feng shui challenges in existing homes[45:37] How the five feng shui elements connect to cardinal directions [01:07:00] The story of how every glass desk in an office led to total business collapse within 24 hours[01:12:08] How do you feng shui an apartment when surrounded by other people's energy?[01:35:58] Why decorating against your geography creates energetic breaks that sabotage manifestation[01:41:24] Why rectangular spaces provide the necessary structure for manifesting, while domes keep you circling[01:52:26] Why feng shui is a living philosophy of presence and reverence, not a decorating techniqueJust starting out with Feng Shui and energy work? Explore three free ways to begin — gentle, practical, and easy to try today.Download Palaces of LifeTry the Butterfly MeditationGet the 7 Simple Feng Shui Tips eBookStart where you feel curious.Find more from Danijela:Danijela | Website Unfolding Space | Space Activation CertificationFind more from Alec:Alec Zeck | InstagramAlec Zeck | XThe Way Forward | InstagramThe Way Forward is Sponsored By:RMDY Academy & Collective: Homeopathy Made AccessibleHigh-quality remedies and training to support natural healing.Enroll hereExplore hereNew Biology Clinic: Redefine Health from the Ground UpExperience tailored terrain-based health services with consults, livestreams, movement classes, and more. Visit www.NewBiologyClinic.com and use code THEWAYFORWARD (case sensitive) for $50 off activation. Members get the $150 fee waived
In this 100th episode of Smashing Secrets Feng Shui, Jo explores how to prepare for the Fire Horse year (2026) using classical feng shui principles, Chinese New Year traditions, and Qi Men Dun Jia intention work. As the new lunar year approaches, this episode explains how to clear old energy, reset your home, and consciously align with the fiery, spiritual momentum of the Horse. Listeners are guided through traditional pre-Chinese New Year rituals, including spring cleaning, symbolic feng shui activators, abundance practices, and timing considerations to avoid unintentionally disrupting incoming luck. This episode covers: Feng shui preparation before Chinese New Year Spring cleaning rituals to clear stagnant qi Feng shui symbols for luck, prosperity, and abundance Why haircuts, debt clearing, and timing matter energetically An introduction to Qi Men Dun Jia for manifestation and spiritual focus How to use directional meditation in 2026 for leadership, clarity, courage, wealth, influence, harmony, and networking Annual deity directions for the Fire Horse year Auspicious dates and times for deep cleaning in February Qi Men Dun Jia is explored as a meditative, intention-based form of feng shui, showing how facing specific directions can help remove obstacles, attract mentors, increase confidence, strengthen influence, and sharpen clarity throughout the year. This episode is ideal for anyone interested in feng shui, Chinese astrology, BaZi, manifestation, energy clearing, spiritual intention setting, or preparing their home and life for the Chinese New Year.
Bracey and Anna dive headfirst into the world of New Age spirituality and energy work—exploring everything from Reiki, the Emotion Code, Psych-K, and past-life regression to tarot, pendulums, manifestation, and witchcraft. As promised, here's the comprehensive list below of everything we talked about:* Energy Work:* Emotion Code* Reiki* Psych K* Past life regression* Feng shui* Meaning-making systems:* Numerology* Astrology* Human Design* Matrix of Destiny* Gene Keys* Divination:* Tarot* Oracle cards* Dice* Pendulum* Dream journaling* Manifestation:* Scripting* Affirmations* To Be Magnetic* Witchcraft* Altars* Spells* Reclaiming/cultivating power* Vision boards* EFT* Journaling/lists* Visualization* Subliminals* Teachers:* Debbie* Jess Lively* Pea the Feary* Jas Nenna* Vaness Henry* Rachel Lieberman* Jes Fields* Sydney Liann* Regular guys: Deepak Chopra, Wayne Dyer, Joe DispenzaExploring:* Feminine/masculine balance* WitchcraftSome episodes you may have missed….Here's some good ones from the archives!2026 Hopes, Goals, and IntentionsBody Chats with Julia BakerTeaching a Topic: Mind Body ConnectionIf you've enjoyed any of our episodes, we'd appreciate it if you'd share with a friend. That's how podcasts grow - through connection - and we appreciate you helping us grow! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit likehearted.substack.com
In this episode Randel and Owen talk with Marin Spivack about Chen Taiji training training with Chen Yu, Feng ZhiQiang, and, Gene Chen.From his website:"Marin Spivack holds a Bachelors in Asian Studies from University of California, Berkeley, with a focus on Political Science of China. He is proficient in conversational Mandarin and well versed in the cultural nuances and lifestyle of mainland China and gongfu culture specifically which made such an unlikely journey in gongfu possible.In 2002 he became a formal disciple of Chenyu, training the ancestral practices taught to him by his father, Chen Zhaokui. This fist consists of the direct family methods passed to him from his father Chen FaKe which Chen Zhaokui made popular and practiced to a high skill. Training the traditional way at Chenyu's home during years living in Beijing Marin Spivack was fortunate to have gained a significant amount of detail and foundation to himself practice this art to fruition and acquire the ability to pass it on accurately. He continues to develop, deepen and share that system of gongfu in traditional classes in the the Boston area, U.S.A."WebsiteInstagramYouTube#kungfu #gongfu #teaching #podcast #taiji #taichi #martialarts #wushu #kungfuconversations #china #chentaiji #chentaichi #baguazhang #yangtaiji #qigong #chenyu #fengzhiqiang
Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society. In this episode, Justin interviews Deyna Feng, Director of Captive Programs at Cummins, about her role at the company. They discuss the reality of climate change risks and how Cummins uses captives to address them in the short- and long-term in the U.S. and 36 countries globally. They talk about the various facets of the company, from property to supply chain, to business continuity, to human resources, at risk from climate events. They discuss the variety of regulatory sustainability reporting requirements around the globe. Listen for steps to take to use captives for your climate risk planning and strategy. Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. Our topic today is the interconnection between captives and climate risk. To help me delve deeper into this connection, I've asked Deyna Feng of Cummins to rejoin us. It will be great to catch up with her! [:49] You're going to walk away from this episode with a lot of great ideas for your captive programs. But first… [:55] RIMS-CRMP and Some Prep Courses. The next virtual prep course will be held on March 110th and 11th and again on April 21st and 22nd. Links to these courses can be found through the Certification page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:12] RIMS Virtual Workshops are coming up. On January 21st and 22nd, Chris Hansen returns to deliver the course, "Managing Worker Compensation, Employer's Liability and Employment Practices in the US". [1:26] On February 4th and 5th, Ken Baker will return to deliver the course, "Applying and Integrating ERM". [1:36] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:47] RIMS members always enjoy deep discounts on the virtual workshops. [1:57] The RIMS-CRO Certificate Program in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management is hosted by the famous James Lam. This is a live virtual program that helps elevate your expertise and career in ERM. [2:10] You can enroll now for the next cohort, which will be held over 12 weeks from April 14th through June 23rd. Links to registration and enrollment are in this episode's show notes. [2:24] On with the show! Deyna Feng is rejoining us for the first time since 2021. She is the Director of Captive Programs at Cummins. [2:38] Cummins designs, manufactures, distributes, and services a broad range of power solutions, from traditional diesel and natural gas engines to advanced electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell technologies. [2:50] Deyna is here to discuss how climate change has had a huge influence on how she manages captives for Cummins. We're also going to speak a little more broadly about the ways you might think about climate risk as you launch or alter your captive program. Let's get to it… [3:06] Interview! Deyna Feng, welcome back to RIMScast! [3:21] Deyna Feng has been working for Cummins for the past 15 years. She was always with the risk insurance team and, since 2015, she's managed the captive operations, the insurance programming inside it, and the whole insurance company. [3:52] Deyna started with Cummins as Regional Risk Manager for Asia Pacific. Then she joined the company to manage its captive. Deyna has been really passionate about this career path because captive is such a wonderful risk management and risk insurance tool. [4:08] Deyna says Cummins has been using its captive constantly and actively managing different types of risk and profiles. [4:34] A captive is an insurance company. Cummins's captive is a pure captive, or a single-parent captive, so it purely insures the parent company's risks and business. [4:44] The benefit of a captive insurance company is that, instead of buying insurance from the commercial market, you can really tailor your insurance program within a captive. [4:55] They also provide financial benefits like tax benefits and some other things you can manage through the captive. [5:03] For the past few years, it's been hard on the insurance market on the property and the liability side. Cummins uses its captive, proactively, managing the whole program in a really unique way. Everything is tailor-made to your own program, your own risk. [5:21] If you are a good risk management account, you will receive benefits by doing such a self-insurance arrangement. [5:38] Justin recalls from reporting that in 2025, there are hundreds more captives among medium and small businesses than there were 20 years ago. Feng agrees. It's a booming market for the whole captive industry. It's growing for all captive domiciles around the world. [6:01] Deyna and Justin believe that captives are a big part of the future of risk management. [6:09] Justin reconnected with Deyna because of her unique philosophy that climate change can greatly impact a captive and, therefore, a company. [6:38] Deyna thinks everyone is feeling the effects of climate change in the current environment. They see more things happening, more frequently, with more severity; events like wildfires, floods, and hurricanes. [6:53] Deyna says, Before, it's rarely showing anywhere, or a 500-year event, then suddenly, something happens. We experience such dramatic events in different facilities globally. So, we are thinking such events can escalate super quickly and become catastrophic. [7:17] Deyna asks how we can manage such events, especially when you are dealing with a large insurance program, and it involves a big business interruption to your global company. [7:29] Deyna thinks there is a growing concern for global companies like Cummins for a few important reasons. First, frequency and severity are rising. Also, it's less predictable in certain areas, and there will be increasing exposure for large, global facilities. [8:08] Deyna speaks of supply chains. For a large manufacturing company with a global footprint, it's important to manage supply chain risk in a better way. The climate risk is changing globally, so it will impact Cummins's supply chain risk to a large extent. [8:30] Deyna says it also increased the complexity of managing claims, like a hurricane claim. Hurricane Helena is our recent example. It happened over a year ago, but it impacted multiple locations in that area and also impacted Cummins's warehouses and logistics centers. [8:50] It impacted the whole business revenue and the whole area. So, it becomes a much more complex claim to manage and handle. Even now, Cummins is still dealing with the whole impact of that Hurricane Helena flood claim. [9:11] Justin asks about polycrisis and how one event triggers others that the captive manager has to oversee and try to resolve. [9:31] Deyna says, Cummins has suppliers in that area. If those suppliers don't have good insurance coverage, then Cummins helps them out, so they can help Cummins's local business. That impacts a lot. Cummins is still dealing with a business interruption claim from that event. [10:06] Deyna says one important area for climate risk management is dealing with government regulatory requirement reporting changes, not just in the U.S, but worldwide, with international reporting. [10:25] Certain countries are more advanced in regulation development. So, for those countries, Cummins has to make sure to do a proper evaluation and prepare for those government reporting requirements. [10:44] That involves a whole set of reviews from different lenses. To manage the risk more effectively and efficiently, Cummins needs to consider a few options. One is about data. [10:59] The whole risk management and risk insurance program is data-driven, so Cummins makes sure to gather important climate risk-related data and then models it globally in CAD. This way, Cummins can anticipate future risk and business impact. [11:24] The second is the partners Cummins works with. Those are insurance, reinsurance, and brokers. They offer different types of climate risk-related data analysis. [11:38] From there, certain captives can use such data-driven arrangements and cat modelling to plan their parametric solution. That's a unique type of risk, tailor-made. [12:00] Deyna says Cummins's global insurance program has broad coverage, already covering such climate risks. That's useful for specific risks in certain areas. You have the trend, you see the need, and then you use this to pay claims quickly without complex claim procedures. [12:28] The other area Cummins has been doing is leveraging the data it receives and then utilizing the captive to do the strategic planning. That is how Cummins utilizes the captives to structure its global property liability program. [12:46] And then Cummins uses the captive as a fronting mechanism, and then puts more layers within the captive to manage large claims more flexibly. [12:58] Then the other part is using the captive to buy reinsurance to transfer certain catastrophic events or the higher risks to the reinsurance market. So it's a diversified captive strategy. [13:15] Justin asks about business continuity planning. Deyna says that to manage climate risk, business continuity planning is important. Lots of companies use it to manage traditional risks, like a flood or a fire, but it is also important to deal with future climate risk resiliency planning. [13:39] The supply chain risk is part of that, and then when you identify the high-risk area, like a heat wave, or cold stress, or water stress, how can you make sure your local businesses are well prepared to deal with those situations, especially in the long run? [14:00] Quick Break! RISKWORLD 2026 will be held from May 3rd through the 6th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. RISKWORLD attracts more than 10,000 risk professionals from across the globe. It's time to Connect, Cultivate, and Collaborate with them. Booth sales are open now! [14:22] General registration and speaker registration are also open right now! Marketplace and Hospitality badges will be available starting on March 3rd. Links are in this episode's show notes. [14:37] Let's Return to Our Interview with Deyna Feng! [14:45] Deyna says Cummins is based in Indiana. Deyna lives there. [14:53] Deyna says, This year, the snow hit us super early. Before, it's after Christmas time, when we start seeing snow, and January is super cold, and this year, like, early December, we're already in cold weather. [15:05] Justin says, Yeah, we're recording in mid-December right now, and we received somewhere between 6 and 12 inches of snow on Sunday, just a few days before recording this. [15:17] Justin continues, And now, today, we're gonna be hitting the 50 degree mark. So everything is finally gonna melt away, but it's also gonna wreak havoc on our senses, and people are gonna get sick, right? That just happens. Yes, I'm just venting here about climate change. [15:41] Globally, Deyna has regional risk managers, a renewal team, and a claims team, who work together as one big team of around 16 people in total. [16:07] Dena describes her role as Director of Captive Programs. The insurance company is complex. They have to deal with all the government requirements and year-end matters, program renewal, and Cummins's captive, covering the international employee benefits side. [16:20] Cummins's captive covers the medical and the non-medical program for over 36 countries. [16:29] Justin interviewed the Risk Manager of the Year for 2025, Jennifer Pack, with Hilton. In addition to her role in risk management for Hilton, she was also the captive manager, and she said that sometimes that's a one-day-a-week job, and sometimes it's a four-day-a-week job. [6:47] It really depends on various things, and climate change was one of the items that she mentioned. Justin says, It's something that our audience should be thinking about, because captive management is not going away. [17:05] Justin says, It is something that you want to have in your arsenal as a risk professional, and it can enhance your career, like it's doing for Deyna. [17:16] Justin says, We've seen how some policymakers in the U.S. try to debunk climate change, even though there's overwhelming evidence to suggest that it is a real thing, and it still ranks very highly on the World Economic Forum's list of top risks. [17:31] Justin asks, Against that backdrop, how are you swaying the decision makers at Cummins these days? You just said you were going to speak to some of your internal stakeholders, so what do you need to do to convince them? [17:45] Deyna says that the World Economic Forum emphasizes that climate change now represents massive physical and transition risks, with over $3.6 trillion in damage from disasters since 2000. So, it's a serious number. [18:10] Deyna says, Our CEO takes climate change seriously. We are trying to be the environmental sustainability advocacy lead in the industry and market. [18:23] Deyna says, Cummins has a strategy and commitment to the 2030 environment goals and 2050 targets. We are doing Destination Zero, which is helping not just our own facility, but also our customers and suppliers to navigate the energy transition and environmental goals. [18:46] Cummins's CEO is Jennifer Rumsey. Deyna says she's an awesome, wonderful CEO. [19:07] Justin says, It sounds like you have a line of communication to her. [19:11] Deyna says, We do. This is an important topic. We do annual reporting, including all the aspects relating to this Destination Zero goal. It involves so many functions within Cummins to work with these goals and targets. [10:38] The goals include decarbonization, material changes, community goals to address the site and community greenhouse gas emissions, and also, volatile organic components, water, and waste. [19:56] There are so many things that can be leveraged and developed perfectly with this approach. [20:06] A Final Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [20:25] Spencer awards undergraduate, graduate, Ph.D., and Pre-Instructor of Practice Scholarships to students enrolled at an accredited college or university in the U.S. and Canada, and physically studying in either location. No remote coursework eligibility from other locations. [20:42] Including part-time, graduate scholarships to risk management and insurance professionals continuing their education. [20:48] Since 1980, Spencer has invested more than $11.1 million in the scholarship program with awards to over 1,700 students. More than 85% of Spencer's scholarship recipients remain in the industry to this day. [21:03] They've got undergraduate scholarships, full-time Master's scholarships, part-time Master's scholarships, pre-dissertation Ph.D. candidates, doctoral candidates, and pre-instructor of practice scholarships all open now. The application deadline is January 31st, 2026. [21:25] Visit SpencerEd.org/scholarships. You'll find the different application buttons. See the link in this episode's show notes for more information. [21:37] Let's Return to the Conclusion of Our Interview with Deyna Feng! [22:00] Justin asks Deyna what makes captives uniquely suited to handle climate-driven volatility, compared to traditional insurance solutions. [22:06] Deyna says, Climate risk is quite dynamic, systematic, and also regulatory-driven. It needs continuous investment to understand your climate risk and the government reporting requirements. It's not just one-time managing the risk. [22:25] Deyna says, We look at now as the baseline, with the short-term, mid-term, and long-term, all the way to the end of the century, how the climate risk score is changing for our global facilities. Those are evolving risk scores, not just a one-time risk score. [22:51] Cummins takes a systematic and holistic approach to evaluate the climate risk, so it's not like a daily market change. [23:10] Deyna says, The other part is regulatory diversity, for the whole climate risk aspect, how you manage the risk, matching with different compliance requirements. [23:22] In the U.S., the federal government sets the broad framework, like the Clean Air Act, the Inflation Reduction Act, and some national emission standards. But then, across the 50 states, over 35 states enforce renewable portfolio standards or clean energy standards. [23:41] Different states have different goals, like greenhouse gas reduction targets, and then some other things. And some states are super aggressive on their targets, with much higher standards and quicker standards than the federal guidelines. [24:05] Cummins has a designated team focusing on all the government requirements, the reporting, etc. We share data internally across the broader function teams. [24:24] If we collect data on the climate risk score, we want to make sure everybody leverages the same set of data. We have the same tone and the same message passing on to the global leaders, regional leaders, and even site leaders. [24:37] Justin asks about having systems in place. [24:42] Deyna says, We are building a risk framework around this area. That includes the centralized data. We share the same set of data with the stakeholders. We do need internal stakeholder alignment. [24:55] Deyna says, We have strategic alignment, talking about the same thing. Then we also need to work with site leaders at the site-level resiliency on their business continuity planning. [25:10] Deyna's team provides global training because climate risk is still quite a new concept to many people managing the risk. Deyna wants to make sure they understand where we come from, how we manage the data, and the risk. [25:21] Justin asks about Cummins's risk insurance and captive strategy. [25:28] Cummins uses captives strategically. From this climate risk management, Deyna says, we also have different approaches, from a few lenses. First is the risk data. [25:41] Deyna says, We select a good partner to help us review our global portfolio, and we gather the individual site climate risk score. [25:51] Deyna says, Then we put them together so that we can generate the whole company profile, the regional risk map, down to the country level and site-specific level about where the risky areas are for the individual site from a climate risk perspective. [26:06] Deyna says, Then, from the insurance program perspective, we also have a layered insurance program with our captive actively involved in leading the strategy and also, doing the transfer of the larger layers or risks to the reinsurance market. [26:23] Deyna continues, So, we buy the multi-year aggregate stop-loss in the captive to cap our volatility. Then, there are some other ways about parametric insurance that other companies can consider. [26:36] For Cummins, because we have broad coverage, we already consider such cat risks, including future rainfall, wind, and heat-related scenarios. [26:48] In addition to these, supply chain risk is an important piece to manage. So, contingency BI is also an important area to be considered in your insurance program, and it also covers the climate risk profile. [27:02] Deyna says, We have been using captive funding for the business resilience project. We do the business continuity planning stress test globally, and we also fund the climate risk project from the captive. [27:34] Deyna says, The most important thing is how to manage your employees' well-being. That's not just physical health; we are talking more about mental health. And to be frank, in certain areas, people already experience the climate risk impact, like heat, in the summertime. [27:52] Cummins has its International Employee Benefits Program in its captive, leveraging this program together with the climate risk management and working with HR, about how to better manage climate risk, with resiliency, in the future. [28:09] Deyna continues, talking about mental health support during disaster, emergency relocation, and making people, employees, and their families feel they are safe, working in a safe environment, and also that they don't need to worry about climate risk impact on operations. [28:20] Justin asks Deyna for words for young risk professionals coming up and organizations beginning to explore captives for climate risk financing. What are the misconceptions or blind spots that she sees? [29:44] Deyna says a blind spot about climate change is thinking that climate risk is too long-term for a captive and that captives are for managing whatever is coming up suddenly. In reality, floods, wildfires, and hurricanes are happening now and more frequently than before. [30:26] If we can model these types of risks for short-term, medium-term, and long-term retention strategies, that's important for captive or risk insurance for large companies to consider the future strategy. [30:41] The other thing Deyna hears is that captives only handle traditional reinsurance programs. Cummins uses the captive to fund risk insurance strategies or projects. Gathering climate risk data, building up the model, and cat modelling. [31:00] This also includes thinking about how to integrate this type of risk into risk financing and the insurance program. Cummins is managing it actively. [31:12] The other thing Deyna hears is that data is optional. So, especially for captive, everything is data-driven. [31:25] We have to do cat modelling, we have to make sure we buy the proper insurance program with proper premium payment, and also whether the retention level is appropriate for our site level, for captive, and for the overall program. So, data is the key, or data is the king. [32:00] Deyna says this touches employee safety, employee benefits, supply chain risk, and environmental liability. Lots of areas touch climate risk, not just the property program. [32:26] Deyna lists some suggestions. Build a holistic climate risk profile within the company, across all the global sites, that covers all the countries. Each company will change dramatically in climate risk. It must be data-driven. [33:01] To gather the data, find a proper partner to work with a reputable climate-risk expert to help you check legislative changes, access the hazard or cat modelling, and provide good climate risk data matching with those regulatory changes and compliance requirements. [33:24] Then support your thorough risk evaluation. That's the data part. [33:28] Then, on top of the data, build a good insurance management program, and leverage your captive to build the captive strategy relating to retention, the limit, and the parametrics, insurance program design, like parametric triggers. [33:45] In addition to the insurance program, you have the ERM, the Enterprise Risk Management, ESG reporting, and all the compliance relating to country requirements and state law requirements. [33:58] In Europe, it's CSRD. In the U.S., it's an SEC filing. So, there are lots of different regulatory requirements relating to this area. You want to make sure your data can support your reporting and then can be sustainable, year over year, not just a one-year data point. [34:15] Then, the other thing is the business continuity. Make sure that the good BCP management or integration, including climate risk, especially for all the high risks you are capturing, you should have really good operational resilience to face that. [34:33] Justin mentions that CSRD stands for Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, which sets the standard for how EU companies need to report on their sustainability work. He had to plug that in because there are so many abbreviations and acronyms in risk management. [34:53] Deyna's last point is to share the data internally with a cross-functional group, with internal stakeholders, including senior leadership reporting up to the CEO and COO level. [35:05] Share the data with the middle management team, global team, global leadership team, global management team, and then down to the site level. [35:15] All the parties need to work together to shape a holistic strategy around climate risk management. It's not just for risk insurance or captive only. [35:25] Justion says, Excellent. And so these are great tips for everybody. If you're thinking about launching a captive against your climate risk data profile, I think this is the way to go. [35:37] Justin says, Ms. Rumsey is your CEO, but before that, she was the Chief Operating Officer. So, you must have already had a good working relationship with her before she was promoted, right? [36:02] Deyna says, Yes. This is an important area, because we have not only climate risk, but also the whole risk relating to this area, managed by an environmental sustainability team. [36:16] They organize all the different functions, trying to achieve the goals, and then figure out all the different aspects of our operation and what we can do to meet our future goals. [36:27] This is long-term-driven. It's not like a five-year project; you get it done, and the project is completed. It's long-term. [36:35] Justin says, Ms. Rumsey had come on as COO in March of 2021. You and I first met, or at least recorded the RIMSCast episode, in May of 2021. [36:46] So right around that time, you were probably having higher-level discussions with her, and now you already had her ear, so I think that just speaks to the value of relationship building along the way. Would you agree? [36:58] Deyna says, We have the designated team internally managing this area, and we do connect through that lens, trying to gather the data a long, long time ago. [37:10] Justin says, But it's the sort of thing where, first of all, it's nice to see that people are promoted from within. I think that's a really great thing that Cummins did. [37:18] And second, the fact that you already had that line of communication, and it's not like you had to establish a new one with a new CEO. You already had that line of communication with somebody who was moving up into the role. [37:30] So, I think that speaks to Cummins's credit. I think it speaks to your credit and to your advantage, because you don't have to start from scratch and build that line. [37:40] Deyna acknowledges, Yes, it's super important. [37:44] Well, Dana, it has been such a pleasure to see you again, to record with you again here on RIMSCast. It's been almost five years, and we hope to see you at RISKWORLD. [38:00] Thank you once again for rejoining us, and hopefully, the next time I see you, it won't be five years in between. [38:06] Deyna says, Definitely. I love RIMS events, and all the conferences, the webinars, and even your podcast, so it's super good. [38:17] Justin says, Thank you so much. You're a wonderful guest. [38:20] Special thanks again to Deyna Feng for joining us here on RIMScast. Links to other RIMSCast episodes about captive insurance management are in this episode's show notes. [38:34] I've also got links to RIMS Risk Management Magazine articles about captives, as well as other RIMS resources, so check it out and go to the Risk Knowledge page of RIMS.org. [38:46] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [39:14] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [39:32] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [39:49] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [40:06] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [40:21] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [40:32] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support! Links: RIMS Risk Management Magazine: Year In Risk Edition | Feature Article RIMS-CRO Certificate Program In Advanced Enterprise Risk Management | April‒June 2026 Cohort | Led by James Lam RISKWORLD 2026 Registration — Open for exhibitors, members, and non-members! Reserve your booth at RISKWORLD 2026! The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now Spencer Educational Foundation Scholarships | Submission Deadline Jan. 31, 2026 RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) | Insights Series Featuring Joe Milan! Cummins Inc. Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam PrepMarch 10‒11 | April 21‒22, 2026, 9:00 am‒4:00 pm EST, Virtual Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops "Managing Worker Compensation, Employer's Liability and Employment Practices in the US" | Jan. 21‒22, 2026 "Storytelling with Data for Risk Management" | Feb. 2‒3 "Applying and Integrating ERM" | Feb 4. "Facilitating Risk-Based Decision Making" | March 4‒5, 2026 Upcoming RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars Related RIMScast Episodes about Captive Management: "Broadcasting Captive Wisdom with James Swanke" "Risk Management Momentum with Lockton U.S. President Tim Ryan" "RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack" "Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 2021" (featuring Deyna Feng) Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: "Secondary Perils, Major Risks: The New Face of Weather-Related Challenges" | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) 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RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed! RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model® Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information. Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org. Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. About our guest: Deyna Feng, Director of Captive Programs, Cummins Production and engineering provided by Podfly.
This week, Erin and Sara catch up and discuss the Critic's Choice awards, Feng shui, no shoe rules, and more.Executive Producers: Erin Foster, Sara Foster, and Allison BresnickAssociate Producers: Montana McBirney and Olivia GeffnerAudio Engineer: Josh WindischProduced by Wishbone ProductionProduced by Dear MediaThis episode is sponsored by:Bon Charge (boncharge.com PROMO CODE: Foster)Smartypants (shop on amazon, target, Walmart)Durable (durable.com/first)Boll & Branch (bollandbranch.com/foster15)Needed (thisisneeded.com PROMO CODE: Foster)Skims (skims.com)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Doctor Wendy Walsh explores the consequences of a society with an oversupply of single men. She's joined by film director Violet Feng, who shares her documentary "The Dating Game" that delves into China's one-child policy and its effects on the country's population. They discuss the rise of a surplus of single men, the impact on mental health, and the potential consequences for society, including increased crime rates and the military's role in addressing the issue. This conversation sheds light on a pressing global concern.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Doctor Wendy Walsh talks to film director Violet Feng about her documentary, The Dating Game. The film explores the social issue of an oversupply of men in China due to the one-child policy. Violet shares her personal connection to the topic, having made films about China for years, and how she wanted to understand the perspectives of Chinese men. They discuss the emotional impact of the policy on the men, including attachment trauma and low self-esteem, and how this affects their ability to form relationships.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Willet Feng and Diane Wu Feng are the Co-Owners of burger-chan, a "mom and pop burger shop" founded in 2016 and located in Houston, Texas. Chef Ryan Stewart of Silver Linings Hospitality recently partnered with them and has taken over the major operations of burger-chan so that Willet can focus on is next concept, the still young Borrowed Goods. Join RULibrary: www.restaurantunstoppable.com/RULibrary Join RULive: www.restaurantunstoppable.com/live Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: www.restaurantunstoppable.com/evolve Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/restaurantunstoppable Subscribe to our email newsletter: https://www.restaurantunstoppable.com/ Today's sponsors: Meez: Are you a chef, owner, operator, or manage recipes in professional kitchens? meez is built just for you. Organize, share, prep, and scale recipes like never before. Plus, engineer your menu in real-time and get accurate food costs. Sign up for free today and get 2 FREE months of invoice processing as a listener of the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast. Visit getmeez.com/unstoppable to learn more. Cerboni - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. US Foods®. Make running your foodservice operation easier and more efficient with solutions from US Foods®. Utilize a suite of digital tools, like the all-in-one foodservice app MOXē®, and enjoy exclusive access to quality Exclusive Brands products. Learn how partnering with US Foods helps you get more out of your business by visiting www.usfoods.com/expectmore Restaurant Systems Pro - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let's make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. Guest contact info: burger-chan on Instagram: @burgerchanhtx Borrowed Goods on Instagram: @borrowedgoodshtx Willet on Instagram: @willetcooks Diane on Instagram: @dianewfeng Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
Follow Tiankai on Linkedin!Follow us on Instagram and on LinkedIn!Created by SOUR, this podcast is part of the studio's "Future of X,Y,Z" research, where the collaborative discussion outcomes serve as the base for the futuristic concepts built in line with the studio's mission of solving urban, social and environmental problems through intelligent designs.Make sure to visit our website and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts so you never miss an episode. If you found value in this show, we would appreciate it if you could head over to iTunes to rate and leave a review – or you can simply tell your friends about the show!Don't forget to join us next week for another episode. Thank you for listening!
Happy winter to all our listeners in the Northern Hemisphere!As temperatures drop and daylight fades, many of us naturally spend more time indoors. This makes it an ideal moment to refresh your space and create an environment that feels warm, inviting, and supportive for the season. This week, we're sharing practical tips for enhancing your home's energy—from brightening your front door to balancing the five elements and weaving Yuletide symbolism into your décor. Small, intentional changes can bring warmth and vitality to your home all winter long.What we talk about in this episode:Feng shui principles to enhance winter decoratingThe front door is crucial for inviting energyRed as a powerful color in feng shuiIncorporating fire, wood, and earth elements for balanceEvergreens as a symbol of growth and vitality in winterWreaths to represent unity and continuity in decor…and much more!Mentioned in this episode:Reset Your Home & Spirit: Year of the Fire Horsefind abundance and success with feng shui in 2026!Our Feng Shui Energy Map EkitThanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!-Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! -Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.-Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.-Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.MORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HERENEW EPISODES OF THE HOLISTIC SPACES PODCAST BY MINDFUL DESIGN ARE AVAILABLE EVERY MONDAY.Thanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.MORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HEREORDER OUR NEW BOOK HERE
This Teisho was given by the Rev. Do'on Roshi at the Buddhist Temple of Toledo on June 25, 2025. In this talk Do'on Roshi discusses the 5th case from the Blue Cliff Record known as Hsueh Feng's Grain of Rice. If you would like to learn more about the Buddhist Temple of Toledo or to make a donation in support of this podcast please visit buddhisttempleoftoledo.org. Part of Rev. Do'on Roshi's Teisho on the Blue Cliff Record series.
This week, we explore the theme of gratitude through the lens of Feng Shui, highlighting how cultivating thankfulness—especially during the holiday season—can enrich well-being and strengthen relationships. We share a simple Feng Shui gratitude ritual that involves choosing a meaningful object and writing a note of thanks, then connecting these intentions to specific areas of the Bagua mandala. Embracing gratitude as a daily mindset is central to Feng Shui practice, helping to cultivate greater harmony, balance, and abundance in all areas of life.What we talk about in this episode:-How practicing gratitude can improve well-being and harmony in relationships-Feng shui as a mindfulness practice that can enhance gratitude-How the different areas of the bagua can be connected to specific gratitude practices-Manifesting gratitude through tangible actions in our spaces-A simple feng shui gratitude ritual you can do at home…and much more!Mentioned in this episode:Our Feng Shui Energy Map EkitThanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!-Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! -Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.-Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.-Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.MORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HERETime Stamps for this Episode:[01:21] Introduction[04:24] Gratitude and feng shui[08:42] A simple feng shui gratitude ritual you can do at home[11:44] Exploring the feng shui bagua for gratitudeNEW EPISODES OF THE HOLISTIC SPACES PODCAST BY MINDFUL DESIGN ARE AVAILABLE EVERY MONDAY.Thanks so much for listening to the Holistic Spaces Podcast brought to you by Mindful Design Feng Shui School!Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive complimentary special workshops and offers for our newsletter subscribers ONLY! Make sure you're following us on Instagram for feng shui tips and live Q&A's.Learn about our courses and certification on our website at: Mindful Design School.Check out our older episodes on our Holistic Spaces Podcast archive.MORE QUESTIONSHire one of our Mindful design school Grads for a 1-1 consultation. We know so many personal questions come up. That's why you need a 1-1! Laura and Anjie offer all these freebies, but if you want to learn more it's time to ask a professional. learn more HEREORDER OUR NEW BOOK HERE
Mark Feng is the chairman and CEO of Markor, a conglomerate that includes a large retail and manufacturing operation in China, as well as brands like Caracole, A.R.T. Furniture, Jonathan Charles and Rowe. Markor was founded in a remote Chinese city in 1990 by Feng's father, an artist and former interior designer. While it has grown into a sprawling international operation, Markor still retains its origins as an art-and-design-first company. Now Feng is looking to add technology into the mix with the launch of his own AI company, DecorX. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about the confusing state of the furniture industry today, balancing high design with commercial appeal, and why he thinks, over time, AI will transform every part of the industry. This episode is sponsored by LoloiLINKSMarkorDecorXDennis ScullyBusiness of Home