Podcasts about hey dad

Robert Finlay, author of Hey Dad, shares essential strategies on how parents can equip teens with crucial adulting skills, covering money management, networking, handling emergencies, and building independence.Full Show NotesDo your teens sometimes shock you with questions you assumed they already knew the answer to? Maybe they call in the middle of the night wondering how to fill gas in their car or whether they can use the mysterious "green gas." These “Hey Dad” (or "Hey Mom") calls are more than just amusing anecdotes—they highlight a gap we're all trying to fill as parents: how do we ensure our teenagers really understand the requirements of adulting before they leave the nest?Most parents worry whether they have properly prepared their kids for adulthood, for those surprising (and inevitable!) real-world circumstances. But with teens constantly occupied by schoolwork, sports, friends, and the digital world, how can we efficiently—and effectively—pass along the essential skills needed to confidently step into adulthood?Our guest this week, Rob Finlay, found himself pondering the same question after repeated "Hey Dad" calls from his four kids. Inspired by these moments—and a particularly memorable call from his daughter asking about gas options—Rob set out to gather the necessary knowledge teens needed. After collecting advice and insight from over 30 experts ranging from finance executives to medical specialists and seasoned first responders, Rob compiled Hey Dad: Everything You Should Have Learned About Life But Didn't, a hands-on guide to navigating early adulthood.In our conversation, Rob shares practical tips and hilarious stories to help parents bridge life-skill gaps with their teens. We discuss how to approach money management, prepare kids for career uncertainties, teach networking fundamentals and handle emergencies without panic, and ultimately shift those seemingly trivial late-night phone calls into moments that reflect growth and independence.The Power (and Peril) of Teen MoneyMany parents know the frustration of seeing their teen disregard financial advice, only to later scramble when reality hits. Rob stresses that simply "lecturing" teens about finances rarely sticks—instead, he recommends leveraging conversations about actual real-world consequences. Rob illustrates how introducing basic concepts with compelling scenarios can make money feel relevant to teens. Whether exploring the benefits of good credit scores or the hidden costs of overdrafts, making finances meaningful prepares teens better than abstract and dry instructions ever could.Rob also discusses the power of "compounding" beyond just a financial context, underscoring how even small, consistent actions build substantial results over time—not just in savings, but also in relationships, networking, and personal habits.Networking for Young AdultsEver heard your teen wishfully mention becoming a digital influencer or shrug off job opportunities because it doesn't align with their unclear plan for the future? Rob emphasizes the reality that connections matter profoundly when seeking employment opportunities. He encourages parents to expose teens to situations outside their peer groups and comfort zones—from attending family business dinners to encouraging brief informational interviews with professionals in fields of interest.Rob reminds us that teens are more respected and supported by adults than they realize. Teaching teens to leverage LinkedIn or encouraging them to reach out for career advice fosters self-confidence, creates diverse connections, and transforms the job market from a daunting challenge to a network-driven opportunity."Real World" Readiness and Handling EmergenciesEvery parent dreads the thought that their teen will one day encounter an emergency situation. But as Rob shares, there are essential skills every young adult should know, from handling first-aid emergencies all the way through troubleshooting car issues when stranded late at night.Incorporating expert insights from professional first responders, Rob advises parents on walking teens through emergency preparedness so they can remain calm and in control when it matters the most. After all, adulting skills also go beyond financial independence—they mean knowing how to stay calm when things inevitably don't go as planned.Embracing the JourneyAbove all, Rob emphasizes preparing teens not just for immediate independence but for flexible, resilient, lifelong growth. He illustrates how important it is for teens to accept uncertainty and potential failure not as setbacks, but as essential parts of the journey. By modeling and teaching these attitudes, Rob believes we can elevate those unforgettable phone calls from anxious dependency into mature, genuine moments of bonding and learning.In The Episode…Rob's insights offer practical solutions to parents seeking to empower their teens for real-world readiness. In addition to these core topics, we explore:Why it's essential to let teens fail (and why failure can be productive)How to help teens realize the real benefits behind college decisionsWays to shift from "giving answers" to mastering the art of guiding teens resourcefullyHow adulting skill-building can extend even to occupying oneself on a quiet night at homeRob Finlay's practical wisdom and instructive energy make this episode indispensable listening for every parent who wants to transform their teen's uncertainty into confident independence. The next time your teen calls around midnight, you'll not only know how to handle the call—you'll welcome the growth behind it. 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In this special Father's Day episode, Dr. Meg Meeker talks with Rob Finlay, author of Hey Dad, Everything You Should Have Learned About Life but Didn't. They dive into how parents—especially dads—can raise kids who are prepared for real-world responsibilities. In this episode: The life skills every teen needs before leaving home Why failure builds independence and confidence Communication, budgeting, and decision-making in everyday life The crucial role fathers play in raising self-sufficient kids Timestamps: 00:00 – Father's Day message 00:32 – Meet Rob Finlay 01:30 – Why young adults feel unprepared 03:12 – Life skills your kids really need 07:45 – Letting them fail 12:10 – How to talk to adults 17:23 – Financial literacy basics 23:38 – Building independence through responsibility 29:15 – Support vs. overparenting 33:42 – Final thoughts Resources: Rob Finlay's book → Simon & Schuster Try Dr. Meg's PGK community for free → https://meekerparenting.com/ About Our Guest Rob Finlay is a USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, entrepreneur, speaker, and father of four. He has built and sold multiple companies, with deep experience in commercial real estate, finance, and leadership. His latest book, Hey Dad: Everything You Should've Learned About Life (But Didn't) (released April 29, 2025), offers practical life-skills guidance for young adults—covering topics like budgeting, job hunting, home maintenance, and communication—with real-world insights and expert interviews. You can learn more about Rob, his work, and his books at his official website: robfinlay.com Sponsors: DeepCozy – 15% off at deepcozy.com with code DRMEGAmazfit Active 2 – 10% off at amazfit.com/DRMEGHungryroot – 40% off plus a free item at hungryroot.com/drmeg with code DRMEGAcorns – Start saving at acorns.com/drmegAcorns Early – Teach kids about money at acornsearly.com/drmegHeat Holders® – 15% off at heatholders.com with code DRMEGEquip Health – Virtual eating disorder care at equip.health.com/drmeg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Ready to build, lead, and transform your business for unprecedented success? This week on That Entrepreneur Show, we're thrilled to host Rob Finlay, the dynamic entrepreneur, investor, and CEO & Founder of Thirty Capital. Rob has a unique ability to connect high-level strategy to real-world execution, having built and scaled multiple businesses across diverse industries. He's the go-to expert on navigating complex financial landscapes and revolutionizing sectors like real estate and proptech.In this powerhouse episode, Rob will unpack:The essential mindset of a successful entrepreneur for staying ahead in volatile markets.How to leverage cutting-edge technology and data to drive exponential business growth.Strategic insights for thriving amidst uncertainty and economic shifts.What's next for commercial real estate and proptech, and where the "smart money" is flowing.With his no-nonsense approach and ability to make complex topics accessible, Rob delivers actionable strategies and visionary thinking that will empower you to not just survive, but truly thrive in today's evolving economy. Plus, we'll get a sneak peek into his new book, Hey Dad…, offering practical wisdom for "adulting"!Support the showWant the freebie from our guest? Question for our guest or Vincent? Want to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com.Show Partners:Coming Alive Podcast Production: www.comingalivepodcastproduction.comJohn Ford's Empathy Card Set and App: https://www.empathyset.com/ Music Credits: Copyright Free Music from Adventure by MusicbyAden.

In this powerful episode of the Jake & Gino podcast, we're joined by Rob Finlay—serial entrepreneur, founder of 30 Capital, and author of Beyond the Building and Hey Dad. Rob dives deep into commercial real estate debt strategy, the importance of tracking OKRs and KPIs, and the long-term thinking that separates real estate professionals from amateurs.But this conversation doesn't stop at business. Rob also opens up about parenting adult children, financial literacy, and the “green gas” phone call that inspired his latest book, Hey Dad, a must-read for any parent raising self-sufficient young adults in today's world.Whether you're a multifamily investor looking to improve your financial game or a parent preparing your kids for life, this episode delivers hard-earned insights from one of the best in the business.Get the books:Hey Dad: https://heydadbook.comConnect with Rob FinlayWebsite: https://robfinlay.comInstagram & more: @robfinlay   Chapters:00:00 - Introduction  04:54 - KPIs & OKRs Explained (with Chick-fil-A References)  14:47 - Smart Leverage & Exit Strategies  18:15 - How New Investors Should Think About Equity, Recycling Deals, and Exit Strategies  21:41 - Refinancing vs. 10-Year Lockups  29:24 - The 2021–2022 Bridge Debt Trap  32:49 - Hey Dad: The Gas Pump Phone Call That Started It All  39:46 - Real Parenting Talk: Teaching Independence Through Exposure  43:05 - Kids & Money: Raising Financially Literate Adults  49:34 - Gino Wraps it Up  We're here to help create multifamily entrepreneurs... Here's how: Brand New? Start Here: https://jakeandgino.mykajabi.com/free-wheelbarrowprofits Want To Get Into Multifamily Real Estate Or Scale Your Current Portfolio Faster? Apply to join our PREMIER MULTIFAMILY INVESTING COMMUNITY & MENTORSHIP PROGRAM. (*Note: Our community is not for beginner investors)

A practical guide to transition high schoolers to adulthood.  Transitioning from high school to adulthood has a lot of components and Rob Finlay's book, Hey Dad…: Everything You Should've Learned About Life (But Didn't) is a humorous and practical guide to the real-world lessons every young adult needs but few are taught. It's also a treasure trove of advice for parents trying to help their kids transition into adulthood without losing their minds. From managing money to landing a job, renting an apartment, or avoiding costly mistakes like putting diesel in a gas engine (true story!), this book delivers relatable stories and actionable advice for families navigating the chaos of "adulting." What Your Listeners Will Gain: Insightful Parenting Tips: How to guide your young adult children without micromanaging their every move. Relatable Humor: Stories of parenting fails, hilarious missteps, and the universal struggles of adulthood. Actionable Advice: Real-world solutions from 30+ experts on finances, career building, and independence. Hey Dad… is the book every parent should read before their child leaves the house. Whether you're guiding a first-time apartment renter or answering panicked late-night calls, Rob Finlay's wisdom will help make the transition smoother (and funnier) for everyone involved.   Rate, Review, & Subscribe! "I love Kristina and all the FREE tips that she has to offer!  Thank you for making my parenting journey better!" 

This week Greg from Brighan Young Money joins Francis to answer your questions for dads. They cover fighting garden weeds, kids movies, screen time, and low effor dinners. Follow Greg on Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/dadshammdad.bsky.social and check out the Brigham Young Money podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/2hBdc2oSVQJ2B6p5W2WERO  If you like this and are craving more, Subscribe to our Patreon and get access to more than eight years of bonus content. Three new episodes a month- https://www.patreon.com/Hellofawaytodie  Check out the store, new updates every week - https://whatahellofawaytodad.com/  

In this inspiring episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, Avik sits down with Rob Finlay—Wall Street Journal bestselling author, serial entrepreneur, and mentor to many—to explore the real challenges young adults face today. From late-night “Hey Dad” phone calls to boardroom breakthroughs, Rob brings his signature mix of humor, humility, and hard-earned wisdom. Together, they unpack entrepreneurship, resilience, mindfulness, and the importance of purpose in today's hustle-heavy world. If you've ever wondered how to build a life with both success and meaning, this episode is your roadmap. About the Guest:Rob Finlay is a seasoned entrepreneur who has successfully built and sold four companies. He's also the author of Hey, Dad?, dropping April 29th—a must-read guide for young adults navigating adulthood. Beyond business, Rob is a proud father, advocate of sustainable living, and a firm believer in blending self-awareness with strategy. Key Takeaways: The modern adulting crisis is real—and so is the need for real-life guidance. Resilience isn't just for entrepreneurs; it's a life skill we all need. Social media can create false narratives—focus on your real journey. Daily mindfulness and small habits compound into lasting success. Leadership today demands inner alignment, not just outer achievements. Young adults must embrace curiosity, community, and continuous self-discovery. Connect with Rob Finlay:Grab his book Hey, Dad? on April 29th and follow his journey through mentorship and entrepreneurship. https://www.amazon.com/Hey-Dad-Everything-Shouldve-Learned/dp/B0DVRG9CQT Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?DM on PodMatch – Send me a message here:DM Me Here:https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikSubscribe To Newsletter:https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/Join Community:https://nas.io/healthymind   Stay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/Threads:https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.clubFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #entrepreneurship #mindfulness #selfdevelopment #youngadults #wellness

Send Jay comments via textWhat happens when the magic carpet ride of childhood suddenly ends? In this enlightening episode, we welcome Rob Finlay, author of "Hey Dad," as he shares invaluable insights into the jarring transition from dependence to independence that many young adults—and their parents—experience. Drawing from a humorous yet poignant middle-of-the-night call with his daughter about whether "green gas" (diesel) can be used in her gasoline-powered Jeep, Rob realized just how many practical life skills young people often lack. This inspiration led him to interview 30 experts—from NASCAR drivers to clinical psychologists—and ultimately compile "the ultimate guide to adulting."Highlights:Understanding how graduation signals the abrupt end of childhood's predictable magic carpet ride.The essential interpersonal and networking skills that young adults need for success in today's diverse environment.The evolving landscape of challenges facing young adults today—from digital finance management to navigating social media.The parallel journey for parents re-evaluating their purpose as their children step into independence.Key Takeaways:Young adults must cultivate adaptability to navigate unexpected disruptions after graduation.Finding purpose is crucial for both young adults embarking on their new path and parents adjusting to the empty nest phase.Rob's book features insights from a diverse range of experts, making it a valuable resource for young adults and parents alike.Rob Finlay BioRobert J. Finlay is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, seasoned entrepreneur, renowned speaker, and father of four. He is a successful entrepreneur and commercial real estate investor. He has built and sold four companies.  He brings strategic insights and inspires the next generation of leaders with his commitment to mentorship, education, and the integration of technology. When Rob is not at his day job, he is passionate about agriculture, exploring new practices and sustainable methods to enhance environmental stewardship in farming.Find Rob Online: LinkedIn, Twitter (X), InstagramSupport the showFREE WORKBOOK3 Steps to Loving Your Empty Nest Life ENJOY THE SHOW?Don't miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. LOVE THE SHOW?Get your THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE swagReview us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we'd appreciate your support greatly.CONNECT WITH JAYEmail, LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok

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Trades are an accepted part of hockey business. Recently, Utica Comets GM Dan MacKinnon caught the attention of many pulling off a deal which involved moving his own son to playoff-contending Cleveland. While unique, it's actually happened before and, on the NHL level, no less. The player involved is one who Neil later acquired in New York after this noteworthy trade from Colorado to Los Angeles.X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparoundNeil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeilVic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/#NHLWraparound #ShortShifts #NYCentric #NeilSmith #VicMorren #NHL#DanMacKinnon #WillMacKinnon #UticaComets #NewJerseyDevils #ClevelandMonsters #ColumbusBlueJackets #WashingtonCapitals #LesterPatrick #LynnPatrick #MuzzPatrick #EricLacroix #PierreLacroix #ColoradoAvalanche #LosAngelesKings #UniversityofNewHampshire

The Mystic Whale Lives ~ And so do we ~ Eternally      It is with relentless grace that I offer this book, my life's journey. It has taken me eleven years to write it, through great gulps of tears and loneliness, abject refusals to compromise my privacy, as well as casting the whole deal aside for long periods of time. Never mind the lack of funds or housing which made my journey even more interesting and heartbreaking.      And then pure joyful miracles throughout, showing me that this was indeed my path ~ and God was waiting.          When my father struggles with his own dying, I try to talk with him about eternal life. I tell him, “Hey Dad, you know we really don't die, right?” He replies, “How the hell would you know, you been over there lately?”      Oh my God, he said the funniest things. And yes, as a matter of fact, I find myself working with “the other side” all the time ~ and that I have come to know who I am through my faith and healing abilities given to me.      I believe that all divine humans have come to planet station earth to remember our universal contract and that we agreed to this difficult, seemingly impossible mission, because we have done this before.      We have brought the power with us ~ the power to kill and the power to heal. But we have forgotten so much, our thoughts buried under that sinful blanket woven through centuries of violence, destruction and guilt.                Thrown on top of us to smother our stardust souls, we have little time left to find the truth of our divine inheritance. We should already be living in our own great love story, imagining and creating wonderful things together.      Gifted with the freedom of choice, we gather our celestial intelligence and close that gap of separation, returning to our spiritual home base, our true God~Selves.      This is our dream ship now ~ our eternal lightship of love. Welcome Aboard! Publishing this Spring, 2025    "Amazing Grace" by Steven Halpern  www.innerpeacemusic.com      

Francis and Nate answer your Dad questions. If you want to ask a question, then join our patreon at any level and get immediate access to the Discord channel we share with Lions led by Donkeys https://www.patreon.com/Hellofawaytodie  This week we're giving out advice about cooking easy meals for the family and how to pick yourself a hobby 

This week Francis and Nate are getting too in the groove of home repairs and ending up mad and hungry. Nate continues to have SysAdmin pains, we talk about when is the best time to call a professional, and answer your Hey Dad questions We have both mostly left the bad site and are now on BlueSky Francis - https://bsky.app/profile/whatahellofawaytodad.com Nate - https://bsky.app/profile/inthesedeserts.bsky.social For five bucks a month you can get even more episodes on our Patreon. Three episodes a month and eight years of archive - https://www.patreon.com/c/Hellofawaytodie 

Finishing the normal weekend.In 25 parts, edited from the works of FinalStand.Listen and subscribe to the ► Podcast at Connected..“Being an asshole is not so much a matter of anatomy as one of social consciousness.”(Where we left off)"Bitch, did you just Taser my fiancé?" Orlando's lady stood up. Orlando was struggling back up as well."You are questioning the obvious," Estere mused as she dropped the device. She deftly pulled out what I thought was a compact Bersa 9 and began applying a silencer.It was sort of amazing that no one was screaming yet, then it dawned on me that we were in a soundproofed room and Estere was standing at the only exit."Would you have preferred I use this?" the Hashashin killer motioned with her firearm."How did you get a gun in here?" Brennan stammered. He looked ready to pee himself, so tonight was coming out in spades."Estere," I greeted the woman from Kurdistan. "Those two are okay," motioning to Orlando and his lady. "He's got some testosterone issues; I'm sure you understand.""Is this a kidnapping?" Anima sounded rather upbeat."Your rung on the Ladder of Heaven is not high," Estere commented to Anima. "Your outlook is not promising either. Silence is your best option, so exercise it.""Cáel, do you know this woman?" Libra had begun piecing things together; as in; my life was so crazy that women with guns showing up was much too common an occurrence. I thought about 'Yes Honey, she's a member of an 11th century mystic order of Nazri Ismailis assassins. In fact, her people gave us the word assassin'. Telling the truth at this juncture didn't seem wise, so;"Yes, Estere and I are old pals," I lied. "She's a freelance archivist, genealogist and an Olmec-tastic historical pioneer." Don't bother looking it up; Olmec-tastic is a made up word; it is the crunching of Olmec (a Mesoamerican pre-Columbian culture) and '-tastic' which means; I guess it is a truncated form of 'fantastic'."You mean she's in 'record reduction', the same as you?" Casper whispered."Precisely!" I grinned her way. "Except she's got a Masters diploma on some wall somewhere alongside the shrunken heads of her first three victims; I mean clients; Clients!" Why was I blathering? There was a strange (to most of the room) woman between us and the only exit and panicking would suck; big time.Pause."So, Orlando," I restarted things, "are you going to get up and attempt to kick my ass, causing my friend here to shoot you, or can I return to explaining to Brennan how the world is NOT his oyster and I'm willing to slam anal beads made of flesh-eating scarabs up his rectum to prove it?"That was a gross visual, even for me. A momentary pause as Brooke and her new friend wedged their way toward me (and the girl with the gun)."Every time we meet," Estere observed, "you are surrounded with a curtain of women.""Sucks to be me?" I shrugged."At least these are sheep," she noted. That didn't go over well. Libra confronted Estere."Hey now, you can't talk about us that way," Libra insisted."Or what?" Estere regarded her."Or; or, Cáel will make you stop," Libra growled; THEN looked at me. Wrong sequence of events."Libra," I pulled her back into my embrace, "I've been on the job about a month. She's been making character-building life decisions since before I hit puberty.""What was that; a month ago," Brennan snorted. A yelp followed. Estere had shot at him. "What the fuck!" he staggered back into his seat. "You shot me.""No, I shot 'at' you. Had I shot you, you would be bleeding," Estere glowered. "I am not one of Cáel's normal guardians. I take insults to any women as a personal affront; a sickness best dealt with in a pain-filled, educational fashion. You are not bleeding because that would displease Cáel. Now say 'thank you' in the next ten seconds, or be prepared to go through life as a eunuch."Brennan looked to Orlando in hopes he had some secret mojo to handle this situation."Dumbass," Orlando snarled at Brennan, "you are the punk who put us in a room with only one damn exit. I'm not taking a bullet for you.""You are the martial artist," Brennan snapped back. "Do something!""Brennan, you had better say something quick." Casper urged her host."I'm sorry. I'm sorry," Brennan whined."I have crippled supplicants for groveling with twice that level of passion, Cáel Ishara," Estere stared at me. She began removing her silencer. "Cáel and I have unfinished business, so I will let this pathetic insult pass."She shoulder holstered her weapon and moved to sit at my side. The problem was the passel of ladies around me. Estere looked past the last woman (Brooke) to the somewhat stupefied rich thing beside her."Move," she stated politely. Unlike my difficulties earlier, the whole crowd quickly shuffled down to make space.That tiny hiccup settled, we returned to the abnormal activities of the Illusions Gentlemen's Club's private room. Some of us had fun. A few, used to tormenting the staff, found themselves shooting fearful looks Estere's way whenever they began to act out. I took a few seconds to quietly talk to Estere, now that I had some breathing room."I talked with Ishara; the Goddess," I related. "She's pissed with the Host right now and I'm not sure what to do." Divulging information? Yes. I needed help somewhat badly."Your Order has been out of balance for some time," Estere counseled. "Without balance, there can be no true strength. You are dying out and there must be a blemish behind that; some cancer eating away at the foundation of your belief system."Wow; actually useful. Essentially ; I needed to stay the course."Cool. Thanks Estere," I smiled. "Can I plumb the depths of your knowledge for two more pieces of advice?" We both knew what 'plumb' really meant. I pulled out the necklace from beneath my shirt. "An Earth and Sky envoy sent me this gift, but; the message didn't make it.""What would a suitable gift be and how would I find the person in New York City?" I asked."That is not a gift," Estere smiled warmly. "That is a token of passage from a Beg of the E and S; essentially a regional commander. Pretty impressive. Unfortunately, he, or she, is expecting you to return it at some pre-described place and time; which was probably stated in the message you never received.""My turn," she twisted in her bench seat and placed her left leg over me then inserted it between my legs. "What will be the fate of our daughter?""She will automatically be a member of the Host. Heritage passes through the male line. If she has the genetics that conspire against fate, then she would be in the running to become Head of House.""Not automatic?" she questioned."No. Such things, at least while decided by me, will be based upon merit. I couldn't keep faith with the members of the House otherwise," I explained."Would she be allowed to be passed between us?" was the next question."Absolutely. Not only am I a huge fan of motherhood; I see such an education making her stronger and more flexible when dealing with issues with outsiders," I assured Estere."You act freely. Don't you have to consult your High Priestess; perhaps the Council?" she mused. "I must seek direction from my superiors.""Over the welfare of my children? Nope, not happening. The daughters and sons of; the House are our responsibility as a group. We do not need the other Houses meddling in our affairs," I stated."That is good," she snuggled up even tighter. Sadly for that romantic moment, we had less romantic company to contend with.(Later that Night)Why was I still at Casa da Sulkanen? Brennan couldn't take a hint, buy a clue, or learn a lesson. Why was Estere with us? It was the Pamela factor. Who was going to tell her to leave? After five, non-continuous hours of sex with three women (Casper still hadn't come over to our side yet), how was I still standing? Simply put, I wasn't.Brooke and I were in the nicely heated pool, her arms wrapped around my neck, mine massaging her naked ass and us doing a little whisper/snicker/tickle/giggle game that is very whimsical and hard to explain. Brooke went from micro-orgasm to micro-orgasm to the Big One. Fortunately, our mutual experience allowed me to be in water shallow enough that my toes could touch bottom."I've decided I'm not jealous of Estere," Brooke panted into my ear. "I see the happiness in your eyes when we make love. I think you and I are doing okay." Not quite a Writ of Possession. I was working out the uncomplicated response when our gentle, body-bonded, circular motion caused Brooke to tense up. I followed her gaze to the lounge chair where we had stacked up our belongings, and the dark, dark blonde-haired women sitting in it.Her dress was business chic yet rumpled. Her eyes had the lines of someone who spent too much time looking at a computer screen and she looked mentally and emotionally drained."Good evening," I greeted her. I steered Brooke toward the closest ladder only to realize that even our towels were by her seat. There was nothing we could do but face the situation head on."I'm Cáel Nyilas and my beautiful friend here is Brooke Lee," I made our introductions. "Please excuse our condition, but we weren't expecting company at this hour by the pool.""You are not my brother's normal flock of seagulls," she commented. "Hana Sulkanen, by the way." The way 'seagulls' rolled off her tongue, I knew she meant 'winged rats' instead of any true avian.Oh cool; she had a Carnegie-Melon ring. Oh cool; she was watching my still erect penis bobbing her way. I thought a little damage control/diplomacy was in order."As I said, I'm Cáel. I work as an intern at Havenstone Commercial Investments. Brooke recently graduated Vassar, was going to get married to some other guy, but that fell through a little while ago," I directed the conversation to Brooke and I not being parasites."School?" Hana inquired. So much for that."Bolingbrook in New Hampshire," I answered."Never heard of it," she yawned. Brooke simmered with outrage over that."You and 99.99% of North America," I joked. "It doesn't change the fact that I kick ass at my job, am constantly underestimated and enjoy making my own way in the world.""And you consider making your own way in the world to be swimming in my father's pool at four in the morning?" she snorted. Her drink was a V-8. No alcohol for her."We came because Cáel's father was murdered this week," Brooke snapped. "He needed a break." That brought a few seconds."Really now," she regarded me studiously. Out came the E-device."Ferko Nyilas; Burnham Illinois which is a suburb of Chicago," I fed her the pertinent data. Brooke was even unhappier that I felt compelled to verify her statement, so I distracted her by suggesting we gather our belongings."Your father was killed in a gun battle; still under investigation," Hana muttered."Are you some sort of criminal? Was your father?" she probed."Ah, I see you possess the same level of common courtesy as your brother, Brennan," I responded. "To answer the first and only question I feel like answering; no; making my own way in the world means I don't answer the questions of exhausted, over-extended, junior plutocrats who somehow assume they can provide any useful input to my life."Verbal hammer to her facial self-esteem. Hana was a 'producer' in that she had a job she felt she deserved, worked at it to some acclaim and added to her family's productivity; the opposite of Brennan."If you feel insulted, by all means leave, Mr. Nyilas," Hana glared."Oh, thank God," I sighed happily. I began dressing, as did Brooke. Hana looked uncertain."Cáel's been looking for a cordial excuse to get us out of here since we arrived," Brooke explained. "I imagine I should thank you. I wasn't sure how I'd keep Cáel from punching out your little brother over breakfast." Hana looked out-maneuvered."What is that?" Hana pointed to my horse-hoof necklace. She almost reached for it, then politesse kicked in."It is gift from a stranger," I told her. "It is from Central Asia.""May I see it?" she inquired. I nodded, then handed it over."Looks old," she muttered. "The language; it's not Uzbek;” Seeing the curious look on my face, "I do some business for my step-father in the old SSR's, so I've picked up some of the languages." Then, "I swear it's Chagatai." (SSR = Soviet Socialist Republics.)"Where is that from?" Brooke leaned in."Nowhere today. For 500 years, it was the lingua franca of the Turkish people ; until the Soviets wiped it out a hundred years ago. They wanted Russian to be the unifying language, so they promoted regional tongues and regulated Chagatai to the long list of dead languages," she answered.I added my attempt at Russian conversation; "In Soviet Russia, you do not speak a language, a language speaks for you." I joked.Hana snorted. Then replied in her Russian; "Be careful comrade, or your cleverness might get you promoted to the rank of apparatchik," she snickered. I feigned horror."No!" Brooke protested. "Speak something I can understand, damn it."I quickly translated for Brooke as the three of us migrated inside. Hana led us to a third, and newer, section of the estate. The goal was her purse and the reading glasses there in. Compared to the few bedrooms we'd seen, Hana's room was rather austere."Well, I know Uzbek and this is similar; say Canterbury Tales English to Modern American," she mused."The only thing I know for sure is that it belonged to Shahrukh Mirza of the House of Barlas," she read off several of the symbols. No one said anything. "Please don't tell me you found this at some rummage sale, or flea market." she grew intense."No. As I said earlier, it was a gift and given with the understanding it would be returned at a future place and time," I told her."Too bad. I would pay a pretty penny for this," she held it up to the light for further examination."I'm not one of those dreamers that feels money cheapens stuff and blah; blah; blah. Money has its uses," I countered. "I also believe some things are priceless. They either can't, or shouldn't, be sold. As I said, this was a gift meant to be returned.""Maybe you can put me in touch with the owner so I can make them an offer," Hana suggested."I'd do that except that I have no idea who gave it to me, or where I am to return it," I shrugged. Hana was now looking for some deception on my part. "It was delivered to my place of work and a person who intercepted the necklace destroyed the message that came with it.""Well, I hope they got a stiff reprimand, if not outright loss of employment," Hana sighed."Oh no," I chuckled. "That's not the Havenstone way. My people and I are going to stalk her and her people down and then beat/stab/scar each and every one of them. What she did wasn't a mistake. This was a direct and calculated insult that only blood will cleanse.""That sounds positively Old Testament," Hana nodded."Cáel's women don't kid around," Brooke added."Really, now. What is it exactly that you do?" Hana asked me."This should be good," Brooke muttered through her saucy grin."I'm a facilitator for an aerospace project with our R and D division," I feigned concentration. "Its high-tech stuff; I don't understand all the details. I'm relatively positive we are creating nano-thin, artificial polymers for balloons aimed at space. You know, fill up the aerial unit with Helium, create a powerful x-direction buoyancy then let the package accelerate into high orbit.""I've never heard of anything like that," Hana furrowed her brow."Neither has anyone else before now," Brooke laughed, then hugged me. "The miraculous part is; I think he creates these employment opportunities off the cuff; no rehearsal.""Wait; you just lied to me?" Hana grew petulant."Yes, I did and I apologize, Hana," I looked rather shamefaced. "I work as an intern for Executive Services. I am also on the Board of Directors, but that's a truth best gotten into at another time.""Oh; if you are on the Board of Directors for Havenstone, how can you be an intern?" Hana frowned."I was given the position on the board, I earned the position of intern," I answered. "Being a guiding force for a corporation I know nothing about is rather stupid, in my book.""I couldn't agree more," Hana said thoughtfully and seemed make a severe weather-vane shift. Brooke stifled a yawn rather unsuccessfully and it quickly made a circuit of our little troupe. It was bedtime for us all.(Breakfast and fast breaks)I could have used a good deal more sleep. But I knew working out and jogging were better for my body and soul. Brooke and Libra acted as if I had betrayed their friendship in favor of torture. Estere took secretive amusement at their suffering and at my ability to stress myself as hard as I did. She had already enjoyed the physical benefits of my exercise mania last night.A wonderful distraction to the whole ordeal (beyond listening to Libra and Brooke spit death curses at me between ragged gasps of breath) was the rising sun setting the Atlantic Ocean on fire.We had been summoned for breakfast at 9:30 am. That translated to me and three lady companions showing up to an overly large dining room on time to find Hana already there.The South wall was a series of French doors, all open, whose long white curtains billowed in the morning breeze. It was a bit chilly for our 'beach casual' attire, yet survivable. A staffer I hadn't seen before verbally related this morning's menu; blink. By quick consensus, we agreed to order the same things to make our orders easier to recall.In hindsight, that was probably unnecessary. The woman servicing us was very professional. She was also sympathetic enough to our efforts at kindness to acknowledge it. The vigor with which we demolished our fruit bowls caused Hana to chuckle."Building up your energy reserves?" she teased us. Libra and Estere didn't know Hana."He made us run this morning," Brooke griped. "It was utter Hell.""On the beach?" Hana asked me."Yeah," I replied."Try running along the road next time," Hana snorted. "It is easier on the arches."Libra hit me with a backhand to the bicep."Asshole," she glowered. "You had better get those magic fingers to work on my calves when breakfast is over.""What's in it for me?" I countered."Oh, have mercy, Cáel," Brooke pleaded. "You do this every day; as does Estere apparently, but Libra and I don't. Help us out here.""We have a masseuse," Hana offered. "He's very good. I can give him a call and have him come over from the spa.""Please do, Ms. Sulkanen. I'm feeling a real yen for some time alone this morning," I requested."I can do that, Cáel, and call me Hanna," she finished just as;"Hey Hana," Brennan yawned as he came stumbling into the room wearing boxers and nothing more. "Brooke, Kibble, Lisa," he added. His not unimpressive cock was strategically placed in the opening.Hana rolled her eyes in disgust. Brooke snickered. Libra did one better."I didn't know they made them that small," she said to Brooke who began giggling."Shut up, you lesbian freak," Brennan's amusement evaporated to bitterness. The attendant showed up, got his order and then the orders of the next two to stagger in.The low course of the conversation included the arrival of Orlando and his fiancée, only to dissipate with the appearance of Anima leading Casper. Casper could barely take her seat, even with Anima's help. Anima's look was victorious and challenging. Casper; she was stoned, wasted and not in anything approaching her right mind. Her body was sweaty and her hair was slick.The kicker was the splotches of dried semen and vaginal fluid on Casper's face."Say 'hi' to Cáel," Anima pressed the issue."Hi," Casper waved as her body swayed. Hana was uncomfortable. Libra and Brooke were furious. Estere was; studious. Anima's eyes remained lock on mine.I pulled out my phone and began taking pictures of the participants. By the time I made it to Brennan, he was laughing and joking at my efforts. Orlando had a different tack."What are you doing?" he menaced."Life should be about moral decisions, compassion and consequences," I related drolly. "You made your call last night. Live with it."I finished the photo session while Orlando was still trying to figure out what was going on. I had to use my phone for a different function."Buffy, I'm sending you several pictures of people who think they are above the law. Those people raped, or facilitated the rape of the woman in the final picture," I told the First of House Ishara. "I cautioned those people about appropriate behavior last night.""They chose to ignore me. The legal system can't touch them. I don't know what a proper punishment for such a horrendous act is, so I thought you might give me some council on this matter," I added. Long pause."Don't worry about it, Cáel," Buffy responded in a ghostly voice."Take care and I'll see you on Monday," I finished up. She hung up and that was it."That was spooky," Brennan chuckled. "How about I make a scary phone call and mention the words 'Cáel' and 'trash collection'?"I ignored him."I could call the sheriff and have you charged with menacing."I continued to ignore him."Stop serving him," he snapped at the server as she came to my plate."Serve him breakfast, Donna (the server)," Hana interrupted. "He's my guest, Brennan, so no longer your worry." I didn't acknowledge Hana's kindness as this was still part of a family feud and I wasn't family. I'd thank her later. The Vacuous Think Tank members weren't done yet. The privileged shit-heads began playing a video on their ultimate phone devices, sexually feeble soundtrack included.Deep down in Casper's mind she began to put the current audio input to her recent nightmare. Tears fell down her cheeks. On the video, the name 'Casper' was used enough to move it past the throws of ecstasy into the realm of sorry-ass amateur date-rape porn."We may have broken Casper a teensy bit," Anima feigned sincere regret well."Oh," I chuckled, "it is too late for word play now, Anima. That train has left the station and the whole crew here missed it. I warned you about slithering horrors and the beautification of humanity. Here is the final lesson;""Fuck you and your bullshit," Brennan mocked me."Brennan; my guest," Hana insisted. His response was to blather some noise; nah, nah, nah; an act several of his playmates took up. It was a display more appropriate for 5 year olds than men and women above the age of consent. Estere tapped Brooke next to her, motioning with her fork to a melon ball in her bowl. After a momentarily confusion Brooke tossed the melon up.Estere tossed the fork, skewering it with enough force to sail past me and land on Libra's plate. Two more exhibits, including the final one that had her spitting her thrown melon on a tumbling fork and Estere turned on Brennan, fork ready. The melons were nearly the size of eyeballs."Do it and go to jail for fucking ever," Brennan tried to 'man-up'."Diplomatic immunity," she smiled. "I doubt the government of Azerbaijan will give a rat's ass about you and your drug-consuming, alcohol-guzzling, whoring lifestyle. The worst that happens to me is that I have to go home for a few months. You will be blind forever." Estere revealed her second fork."Not this morning, Bitch," Orlando stood up. "I'm not afraid of forks and side-show tricks." I stood up as well, but went in a different direction. Brennan was at the top of the table; Hana was at the bottom. Casper and Anima were on the opposite side of the table and closer to Hana so that was the route I took.Anima, Brennan and Orlando had a problem. Estere was threatening Brennan. I was clearly coming to retrieve Casper. The quandary was which way Orlando went; he couldn't both safeguard Brennan and stop me. I was pretty sure that Brennan was convinced Orlando would come his aid because of his role as paymaster.Orlando Keyes wasn't a thug, or a dog. He was a tactician and he planned to win this fight. Contrary to my desires, that meant I came first. I was far closer and getting nearer all the time. Even if Estere managed to fork out one of Brennan's eyes, Estere couldn't contribute to the fight with me quickly enough to make a difference."Casper, you want to stay with your friends, don't you?" Anima cooed to her victim. Casper's head bobbled, making a tragic contrast to her tears. Hana had done as much as she dared at this juncture. Orlando came closer, snatching up an unused chair to counter my knife. I backed up. It was my only true choice.Charging forth against Orlando certainly would have been romantic. It would have also been futile. I couldn't beat the man; hurting him didn't equate to actually winning. Estere blinding Brennan accomplished nothing. When I had back-pedaled to Hana, Orlando relented. Once his bladder-weakening fear turned into post-survival euphoria, Brennan started laughing."Fucking dipshit," he sneered. The thump of helicopter blades began dominating perceptions. "I knew you didn't have it in you. You are a wimp and a chicken-shit coward." Brooke and Libra were worried and confused."He could not win against Mr. Keyes," Estere stated to them. "Getting pummeled would have been a wasteful gesture.""Oh, now you are his apologist." a random fuck-nut snorted. The helicopter kept getting closer."What about Casper?" Brooke worried. Anima smirked at the show of heartfelt concern."They haven't gotten her out of the room yet," Estere pointed out. "Once they depart the table we will be able to double-team Mr. Keyes and break him. The aftermath is an absolute certainty.""I don't think so," Orlando challenged."Oh yes," Estere grinned wolfishly. "Once we have you on the ground, I'm going to shatter your palms then tear off your fingers. Pull up, twist and snap; I've done it several times; it is quick and easy. If you think you can continue your career without fists, by all means, stay on your present course of action.""What is it that you do again?" Hana asked Estere."I'm a; a freelance archivist, genealogist and an Olmec-tastic historical pioneer; according to Cáel anyway," she answered."From Azerbaijan?" Hana murmured."I never said I was from there, only that I have diplomatic status with their UN mission," Estere clarified. Hana said something in an unknown tongue to which Estere responded. Their conversation lasted about one minute."We both speak Farsi, though mine is 'schooled' and hers has a Tabriz accent," Hana enlightened us."I apologize for last night, Cáel," Hana nodded. "I mistook you for one of my little step-brother's normal crowd of useless nitwits. You appear to be both smart and know interesting people." 'And how', I muttered internally."I take it your daughter is with Philip," Brennan intervened. "Miss her?"By this time, the helicopter had traversed the ocean-side view of the villa and was humming its way to the east end of the estate. Philip must have been Hana's divorced whatever who most likely had alternating weekends of child custody."Cáel, you mentioned something about a 'final lesson'," Hana turned to me."Only this: there was a woman who trusted a man. She decided to leave him; so he, and a few buddies, held her down and gang-raped her for two days. When they passed out, she didn't run away, or call the police. No, she took a baseball bat and knocked them into la-la land. She secured them with garbage ties, woke them up by stabbing them in non-vital areas and then proceeded to castrate each and every one with a dull kitchen knife.She went to prison, got out and put her life back together. She eventually rose to a position of some importance and influence with various questionable characters at her command," I continued. "If confronted with a similar situation, especially when money renders justice mute, I'm not sure what this woman would do to assuage her haunted memories.""Do you really want to put poor Casper up on the top twenty free porn sites, Cáel?" Anima pouted."Not my concern anymore," I sighed. "I put the facts out there. What other people make of that information is no longer under my control. From here on out, it doesn't matter what you do, Anima. You've chosen to act in a heinous manner, as have the rest of your crowd; Orlando and his lady included.""If something happens;” Orlando rumbled."You will do nothing," Estere laughed. "You can do nothing. I know the person of whom Cáel speaks and there is nothing you can do, nowhere you can hide where she will not find all of you and balance karmic accounts.""We didn't do anything," the fiancée proclaimed."Standing back and abetting a vile deed is hardly an effective defense," Estere stared with pitiless eyes. "Did you attempt to alter Mr. Keyes' course of actions; you clearly could have? You did not. Mr. Keyes safeguarded the perpetrators of the heinous deed, and thus both of you are condemned by that crime."The boot was on the other foot now for Orlando. He couldn't come at me. He couldn't come at Estere. None of the 'men' on his side were going to stand up to any pain while Brooke and Libra, though unschooled, looked ready to be a serious nuisance. That meant Orlando would be fighting Estere and I simultaneously; and he would lose.Worse, he would lose over a phone call that might not mean a thing. Oh, Estere and I were confident retribution was coming his way and that was unsettling. It wouldn't hold up in court and Hana's presence negated everyone else's legal immunity, except for Brennan who remained her family- the nut sack. Anima's gaze shifted from me to Libra, which my girl found unsettling."Cáel, what is going to happen; over this and getting Casper back?" Libra whispered. For starters, we hadn't rescued Casper yet, so there was no 'getting her back'."Libra, you've seen the scars crisscrossing my body; the bruises and sore ribs I've suffered through," I told her."Those were from the co-workers who hold deep and abiding affection toward me," I continued. "Imagine what they are capable of inflicting on those they do not like. Think about what they might do if they thought I was in danger and distressed. Couple that with the intimate knowledge of exactly what Casper has gone through ; is going through, and then draw your own conclusions." There was a pause while the others ate and Libra digested the information."Are we ever going to see Trent again?" she leaned in and whispered."It can be done, but that it isn't something either of you would enjoy," I whispered out of the side of my mouth. Sending Brooke and Libra on a one-way flight to Indonesia/Philippines definitely wasn't part of my life plan. It was the safest way to let her know Trent was alive."Does Brooke know?" Libra nudged me quietly. I shook my head. "Does Trent?" Another head shake. Pause. "That day in the office; when Trent dumped Brooke; you really were trying to keep us from harm, weren't you?""Yes," I mouthed. "Now eat up."The helicopter noises had a purpose and the consequences entered the dining room as breakfast was winding down. It was Jormo and Misty Sulkanen, aka Dad and Wife #3."Brennan," Jormo said in a neutral voice. We, Brennan's guests, barely rated a glance."Hana," Dad greeted his step-daughter with much more affection."Hey Dad," Brennan laughed. "You've almost missed Orlando here busting up Kibble," he waved a fork at me."Good Morning, Father," Hana waved, "Misty.""Kibble?" Jormo sighed, distracted from his path further into the villa by his son's statement."That would be me, Mr. and Mrs. Sulkanen," I swallowed a piece of my omelet quickly and raised my hand, "though my fellow homo sapiens call me Cáel Nyilas.""Mr. Nyilas, along with Brooke, Libra and Estere have agreed to be MY guests for the weekend," Hana added."Very well," her dad nodded. "Mr. Keyes, your endorsement contract with 'Fitness Tech' doesn't include you getting into fights on my behalf, or my son's." Mr. Sulkanen must have owned Fitness Tech, thus Brennan's believed power over an athlete endorsing some product."It also doesn't stop me from getting into unsanctioned bouts," Orlando glared at me. The tension was broken by Casper starting to sob loudly and uncontrollably.We all did the standing-up game once more. This time Casper saw me coming back for her and stood up. Anima tried to calm the shaken woman. Orlando closed in."New target," Estere stated serenely. She had a fork at the ready and was staring at Orlando's fiancée. It gave me the opening I needed.I took hold of Casper's left arm. Anima took Casper's right. This time she had misjudged the situation and I wasn't settling for a vocal educational moment. I pushed Casper aside, put both hands under Anima's arms and lifted her up."I told you this wasn't a game you wanted to play," I cautioned her right before I slammed her length-wise on the table.Anima's head cracked-down hard and the breath was driven from her body."Mr. Nyilas!" Mr. Sulkanen shouted. "What do you think you are doing to Anima?""I'm not being an enabling bastard, Sir," I growled back. "Come on, Casper," I began leading her back to my seat."Why don't we see what security has to say about that," Jormo shot back angrily."Father, something has happened to the young lady; Casper; and neither Anima, nor Brennan, were adequately helping her," Hana stood up. "The last time Cáel tried, Mr. Keyes got in his way. This time, Anima discovered she wasn't the same level of deterrent.""He slammed Anima into the table, Hana," the old wolf snarled. There was nothing wrong with this guy's macho. Anima shot me a treasured, smug glance as she rolled off the table. The spiraling tension was a super-cell caused by the Hana-Brennan poison and Jormo's displeasure with me. Hana decided to not abandon me, which allowed Brennan to go after her like a starving piranha."Hold on," Misty tried to calm the pseudo-sibling shouting match. She strode majestically over to me, Casper, and Libra to take a look at our charge. Within a meter there was no doubt what Casper had been put through. The smell of an orgy's aftermath, the tattered look, the listless smile belying her tears and her inability to focus, clearly chilled Misty.We were thrust back into Sulkanen family politics. The purely human reaction was for Misty to lambast Anima and Brennan then call the cops. Except, Misty was wife number three, Hana was step-daughter from marriage number two; not even blood-relations with Jormo, and Brennan was a blood-heir for what little time he had left on Earth."Come with me," Misty curled an arm around Casper's waist."We are coming with you," Brooke announced."That won't be necessary," Misty smiled wanly."That wasn't a request," Brooke snapped angrily. "After this, I don't trust any of 'you' people."That went over as well as a father realizing his son looked like the butler. Jormo's demeanor turned thunderous; he was being disrespected in his own home, Brennan looked happily vindictive and the rest didn't matter at the moment."Young lady;” the old wolf growled."Shut up!" Brooke screamed. "The fact that neither you, nor any of your people, are calling 9 1 1 speaks volumes about the lack of character and untrustworthiness of your clan, Mr. Sulkanen."Brooke had just discovered her noblesse oblige. All that crap I'd been talking about the upper crust of society, the top 1% etc.; here was finally the 'face slap' that was married to the 'backhand' so many of us lower class schmucks experienced. Sulkanen was nouveau riche; a self-made man if you considered coming to America with three million in family assets to be a low enough starting point.Brooke wasn't going to attack his credit rating, or bad-mouth him to his business associates. No, there were a ton of socially critical charities and committees that were about to be told by an impeccable source (Brooke) that Dad Sulkanen harbored his rapist son from criminal prosecution. No, this wasn't some 'nobody' being defended either. Casper wasn't known, but she was notable."You can certainly leave," the Old Man rumbled. "The young lady stays. I'm calling Security and my concierge physician.""Go," I glanced to Estere and off she sprinted. A moment too slow, Brennan and Orlando clued into the threat. Orlando took after Estere."She's got a gun!" Brennan squealed. Jormo was busy dispensing orders over his phone as the situation spiraled. But then there was Hana."Mr. Nyilas, please exert some control over this situation," Hana urged."I'll try. Brooke, why don't you, Libra and Mrs. Sulkanen take Casper to a more comfortable setting," I suggested."What about your Azerbaijani friend?" Hana pressed."Oh," I chuckled. "Me giving Estere advice about conflict resolution is like me giving you advice on," I had to wrack my mind about something the Sulkanens were invested in, "natural gas exploration. She'll be fine.""This way," Misty directed. I was so much more enamored and impressed with my two princesses than I had been during our initial meeting. They both shot me quick looks that said the same thing. They knew I was sending them out of harm's way, not exiling them from the decision-making process.Only three of the remaining people weren't scared; myself (I'm an idiot), Anima (sick fuck) and Jormo Sulkanen, who seemed to know the difference between fear you could do something about, and the fear you ignored. We heard bellows from upstairs as Orlando finally discovered that he didn't know what room my group was staying in and that Estere had evaded him.The hopeful-to-be Mrs. Keyes stood up and looked in the direction her fiancé had disappeared into."Don't worry," I said. "The moment Hana expressed the bonds of hospitality to Ms. Abed, you were protected from premeditated mischief." I wasn't 100% sure of that. Keeping the woman from racing after Estere was crucial.The two security types showed up first. They must have had some part of the house dedicated to their use, because I had no idea they were about, yet here they were. They wore moderately expensive, off-the-rack suits, seemed to be in decent physical condition and had pistols and stun guns. One word from Jormo and the guns came out. They had the polished look of pretend-professionals.Had I not worked at Havenstone and seen its malicious underbelly, I would have been impressed. As it was, how could things go more wrong? They split up; one going after Orlando and Estere and the other closing cautiously with me. He looked cool, but his gun was held too high and he blithely came within hand-to-hand combat range.Oh please, everyone I cared about had left the room. If this guy and I wrestled for his piece, I could have cared less who got shot while it was his damn job to see that no one besides me got a scratch. I was sure his corporate employer cautioned him about such mistakes a lot; because he still had the safety engaged on his firearm. I'm an idiot; I'm an idiot; I'm an idiot."Your bitch is going to get shot now, Cocksucker," Brennan sneered. The security guy was reaching for my arm to pull me away from the table. He hadn't bother to ask me, instead being engrossed in his ear piece chatter. I snatched his gun from his grasp, disengaged the safety and pointed it at the guy."Put the stun gun on the table then back up nice and slow," I eye-balled the shocked man.I was pretty sure that was the moment Brennan wet himself. No one said a thing. The guard did as I requested, then backed away. At three meters, I dropped out the magazine then put it on the table. Next, I removed the chambered round from the pistol and put them both on the table."Mr. Sulkanen, you don't know me so I'm cutting you some slack right now," I sighed."Dad, his father was murdered Monday night in a gunfight," Hana interrupted. "Pointing a gun at him probably wasn't the best course of action.""So it appears," Jormo glared at me."G; get your gun back, you idiot," Brennan squawked at the guard.I slid the stun gun to Hana then reloaded the pistol before handing it back to the guy, grip first."Keep your distance to two meters, or more, unless you have a partner ; and whoever taught you to keep the safety engaged is a moron. Guns aren't toys, so don't treat it like one," I told him. The guy took his gun back."You served?" he muttered to me. Me? In the military; I guess I now qualified."Nah, I work with a bunch of girls at the Customer Complaint desk at a major telemarketing firm. After a few weeks on the job, you learn to get squirrely when you see people coming into the office with trench coats in this early summer heat," I said. So much implied with no real information."Oh God," Hana snorted in amusement. "You really do that job thing all the time," she giggled, "don't you?""At Havenstone, my sadistic task-mistresses often require me to think on my feet, so I've learned to share the love at work and abroad," I nodded."What?" Jormo scowled."Cáel Nyilas is on the Board of Directors at Havenstone, as well as an intern for their Executive Services division," Hana stated. "He is learning about the corporation from the bottom up.""Bullshit," Brennan snapped."Can you prove this, Mr. Nyilas?" Jormo challenged me."Normally your recognition would mean nadda to me, but Hana has gone out of her way to be nice to my friends," I agreed. "Who do you want me to call that you will believe?""I don't actually know anyone at Havenstone Commercial," he admitted."Wait!" I had a brainstorm. "Call Javiera Castello. She'll verify who I am and she's pretty much as 'an unimpeachable source' as I'm likely to get.""Who is she?" Hana pulled out her phone."She's an United States Attorney for the District Court of the Northern District of Illinois," I babbled."Are you sure we can reach her on the weekend?" Hana was already networking. She wasn't a lawyer; she was a power player, if a small one."Tell her you think Cáel Nyilas is involved with some crime, and she'll be in touch ASAP," I assured her.The call went in to her team of corporate lawyers and the countdown began. Brennan decided it was time to migrate away from the danger, so he and his buddies decided to take the yacht out after changing; by way of using its crew to escape. Anima elected to remain behind. She kept expecting a reaction from me. She wasn't getting one.No anger, sullenness, contempt, or pity. I'd save my anger for those a bit farther from the grave. I wasn't sullen because her victory wasn't a victory. It was a loss for both of us. I had requested that she exert some self-control in my presence and she hadn't; end of discussion. I certainly didn't pity her. Anima was evil, not merely a creature ruled by compulsions.She had thought I was bluffing. I wasn't. Anima thought she was in an emotional endurance match and if she waited long enough, my façade would crack and she'd get her first taste of my pain. Twenty-four minutes. That was the time it took Javiera to call back."Yes, Ms. Castello," Hana answered, "I have Mr. Nyilas here with me right now.""What's he done wrong; that's difficult to explain," Hana began. I heard the laughter coming from the other end. "You sound like this happens to him a good deal." Talking. "That doesn't sound promising." Talking. "I'm not a criminal legal talent, but I'll give it a shot. Theft, theft of a firearm, assault, obtuse death threats and possible possession of a stolen object." Talking.Hana gave me her phone. At the same moment, Estere dropped down in front of one of those beautiful French doors with their southern exposure and sauntered back into the dining room. Her hastily applied clothing additions suggested she was better armed. The guard gave a startled jolt as Estere drew even with him."Don't worry about him," I told Estere while covering the phone with my hand. "I chambered in the first round backwards." Estere smirked. The guy tested his piece and, sure enough, a normally chambered round popped out; I had lied. The poor bastard gave me a nasty stare. Estere's look to me was pricelessly appreciative.Ninja were all about stealth, the Black Hand was all about making use of whatever weapon was handy; and the Hashashin were all about misdirection and deception. Estere was a Mistress of M and D giving a young trainee a congratulatory nod. Would the guard search Estere for weapons? Not anymore. Now he was worried his pistol would fall apart and Hana had never returned his stun gun.His confidence had been shattered before combat had actually begun."Hello, USA Castello," I spoke into the phone."How are you going to get out of this mess this time?" she began."Can't I simply be innocent?" I pleaded."No," Javiera asserted with authority. "Now tell me what is going on.""For the sake of the interested parties swarming about; some with guns; I'll use pseudonyms. 'A' invited 'B' to his domicile for the weekend. 'B' invited me and 'C' to come along. 'A' had a friend, 'D' plus a cast of assorted losers.'A' and 'D' also had 'E' here for the weekend. She trusted them so ended up drugged and sexually assaulted; a great deal. Video was made," Estere tapped my left upper arm and exhibited her phone suggesting to me she'd gained access to the video the group had taken of Casper. "'F' showed up and decided to help myself, 'B' and 'C' get 'E', only to be outmuscled by 'G'.'H' shows up, takes charge, and decides that myself, 'B', 'C' and 'I' (new friend) should leave while he sits on 'E' and waits for the bought-and-paid for doctor to show up. Goodbye any evidence, trot out the legion of lawyers, crucify the victim and justice dies," I related."What do you want me to do?" Javiera sighed. She believed me.She also believed that I was going to seek revenge for the young lady and while she had to publically chastise me and privately urge me to stop, she knew what motivated me."The caller wanted some confirmation that I'm a Big Wheel at Havenstone along with being an intern," I stated. "Personally I could care less, but 'E's fate is in jeopardy."I handed the phone to the guard after motioning toward Jormo. A few seconds later, he had his own little chat with Javiera. I had a feeling it was rather heated. Was I who Hana claimed I was? Yes. Was I a criminal? No comment on ongoing investigations."Is he dangerous?"I imagine she said 'What do you consider dangerous?' because Jormo wasn't pleased. After a pause, the conversation from Javiera's side picked back up."What do you mean, 'have I crossed him?' You are a part of the Federal law enforcement process. You are paid to handle those things. Now answer me," Jormo simmered.I imagine it boiled down to 'yes, I was a dangerous human being' and 'no, I wasn't a homicidal maniac' which didn't help him much. That concluded Javiera's participation in events."Do you think you can inconvenience me, young man?" he shot his steely gaze my way."Mr. Sulkanen, there are precisely two things keeping me away from you; basic civility," I enlightened him, "and Hana.""I have discovered in a few short months that there is nothing as precious a resource as nice people. The world is overwhelmed with assholes with a highly overestimated sense of their worth in the greater scheme of things. I do not hate you, or like you. You do not register on my interpersonal radar," I said."You think you've learned some harsh life lessons, Mr. Nyilas? You don't know anything," Jormo met me anger for anger. Hana, in her short time, had gained a far better picture of me."Cáel, he is my father," Hana called to me. "You know about paternal respect, don't you?" That was a good shot on her part; painful, but not crippling."You are right, Hana. I am in your father's house and I owe him both that respect and the respect for how he treasures your person," I responded. The tension began to bleed away. Jormo wasn't an ass-hole, just driven by an iron determination to get his way. It had made him stinking rich and, I was beginning to think, outwardly ruthless.Why weren't Brooke, Libra, Estere and I being flung out of his home after our collision? Hana. That man had the same honest and trusted affection for the step-daughter that wasn't even his offspring as my father held for me. You don't mistake it once you've witnessed it. He knew this wasn't her vagina talking. He held Hana in higher regard.Hana saw something in me that made her stand up to both him and Brennan. I doubted that happened often. Hana made the call and her step-father honored it; end of the debate for now. That meant Hana, Estere and I went to find Casper and the others. Libra was helping the focus of such anguish shower off. It had been accepted there would be no police rape inquiry.Another advance, if you could call it that, had occurred in my relationship with Brooke and Libra. Their quick glances said it all- 'Get the bastards' and they expected it to get done. Like Odette and the now-deceased Latin Kings, those two didn't truly understand what that meant. In this case, most likely messy, painful deaths for those who would learn too late that a little law is a good thing; it keeps the really nasty things, like the truly lawless, at bay.There was no mention of events passing beyond my control. Those two had no idea where their wealth came from, what homes they owned outright, versus still under mortgage, or rented, and what their actual tax rate was; as opposed to the mythical 'tax bracket' the masses dreamed the rich were in.Casper came right at me, even slipping out of the towel Misty, and the newly arrived maid, tried to get around her. Why? I had gained an unanticipated affliction. Girls in the worst possible mindsets wanted to trust me. Oneida, Cameron, Wiesława and now Casper homed in on me being a gentle, honest and trustworthy soul; but damn it! I wasn't!I wrapped my arms tightly around Casper, making her feel snug, safe and warm. I lied to her. I told her things were going to be okay. We'd work things out and she'd get better in no time. No one was going to get to her while her 'real' friends were around and we promised to stick around as long as it took. This was supposed to be my vacation. I need to stop making plans for the future and avoid the disappointment from having my hopes trampled by cruel reality.(Saturday Night)The Hamptons gathering had transformed from a post-college exploration to a mature gathering. We had an adult-level task laid out before us; creating an emotional buffer zone for Casper. I gave Estere an 'out'. There would be no more 'fun time' this weekend. She elected to stay anyway.When we moved out to a cliff-side patio for dinner, Brennan and company showed up, sans Orlando and his lady. Casper tensed up, Hana and I rallied and put up a warding wall, so the cast of idiots settled for taunting Casper as she shivered behind us. Because, you know, all of this was one big joke;I had enough peripheral awareness to not get blind-sided by Casper. Hana didn't and went tumbling into Anima. Casper launched herself at Brennan. He had some under-developed martial talent while Casper was clearly driven by frantic energy alone. Brennan received a few scratches then flipped Casper over his shoulder and down hard on the patio's deck.A punch to her face was coming Casper's way when I pushed Brennan several steps back. The one scumbag who attempted to get behind me took an ice cube to the eye, courtesy of Estere. His yelp allowed me to yank Casper up and circle my arms around her."The whore scratched me," Brennan exhibited his scarred forearm. "I guess she goes to jail now."I didn't do anything and I think three of the ladies were thinking I should. Brennan snorted. Now for a lesson in community."Okay," I shrugged. "Casper can go do jail." By the depth of her whimper, that wasn't what Casper wanted at all. I looked to Libra and Brooke. Giving someone the unwarranted label of 'snob' was wrong and those two ladies were going to exhibit that.Libra hurled her drink from the patio table at Brennan. She missed but that was okay. Brooke missed as well."I guess we are going to jail with Casper," Brooke declared as they moved up. Casper wiggled around in my grasp so she could take in the scene. "We'll stick with you, Casper.""Bitches!" Brennan snapped. "What the fuck;""These people can't help you, Casper," Anima stepped up. "You are in trouble now and they don't know trouble.""You are horrible," Brooke seethed in response."Why all the hostility?" Anima gave a disarming smile. Libra had definitely tapped into her 'Inner Cáel'. That was only fair, since her 'Outer Cáel' had been tapping her pretty vigorously."Because we are better than you and you consistently fail to acknowledge that, you soulless tramp," Libra volleyed."Cáel, I apologize so much for bringing you here this weekend," Brooke touched me."I'm not," I squeezed Casper. Crap, I could use a break. It was so wrong that I suddenly wished for Monday and to be back to the work week. It was even screwier that I thought that would give me any sort of relief; it wouldn't."Touching, but foolish," Anima sighed with amusement. She pulled out her phone from her back pocket. She made a call then showed the device to Casper. "I'm sure your boyfriend will be very impressed with last night's antics. Of course, he may expect a repeat performance." Casper trembled. I rubbed her back as she sobbed into my shoulder and bicep."I'm not very impressed with your virtue," Anima sounded disappointed in me."You and your ilk deserve only two words; 'Good bye'," Estere sounded serene. "As a general instruction, anyone on this deck that I do not like and that hasn't left by the exits in the next three minutes will be flying over the railing.""This is my fucking house!" Brennan shouted."Actually, it is Dad's house, Brennan," Hana smiled."He's not your father, shit-for-brains," he snapped."Brennan, for every time you have forced your way into my life through bratty behavior; I consider this moment long overdue," Hana snorted."I'm not leaving," he took a defiant stance."Good," Hana laughed. "In; ""Two minutes 25 seconds," Estere supplied the data."I'm taking every other lady and leaving, locking the doors behind me," Hana kept grinning."Before I leave, I will ask Cáel to physically obstruct the stairs leading down the bluff," she added. "Then it will be you and Ms. Abed. She is going to kick all of your asses, I'm not letting you

Cáel's tombstone: For the love of women, women put him here.In 25 parts, edited from the works of FinalStand.Listen and subscribe to the ► Podcast at Connected..

"Hey Dad, keep my Frogurt on the grill, you know how I like mine extra charred!" Patty Robinson returns to LoL to LIE to us. This Hurley episode, may or may not have originally been the Weekend at Bernie's 3 script.  We discuss the hotness of Ben, seeing a guy about a dead guy, and how many Perc 30 it takes for a good afternoon.  This might be the most informative podcast that has ever existed. Would we LIE to you?!

In this "Hey Dad!" Podcast episode, we discuss the importance of encouraging children to ask thoughtful questions, and how parents should instill this habit in them. Pastor Josh is asked a variety of questions by two of his kids; Levi and Ella Mae McPherson... - What a does an upcoming freshman in college do to prepare to move out of their parent's house? - What should I do as a young man in preparation for marriage?  - How should a young women prepare for marriage, without being passive?  - While in the parent's home, what are practical habits to do now to succeed as an adult?Thanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.

In this heartfelt episode of The Wellness Dojo Podcast, host Kyle Craik sits down with Curtis Alexander, co-founder of the non-profit organization Day1Dads. Together, they discuss the importance of creating support systems and removing barriers for dads and families to maintain their mental and physical health, along with everything else that helps parents succeed. Curtis opens up about his own experience with his parents' divorce during his early teen years and how that shaped his approach to fatherhood. Don't miss Kyle and Curtis trying to not to laugh at some of our best dad jokes! Tune in for an episode filled with valuable insights, personal stories, and a good dose of humor.Check out Day1Dads and get your Hey Dad card today!https://d1d.ca/For additional support: www.wellnessdojo.caFacebook: The Wellness DojoInstagram: @wellnessdojoyycYouTube: The Wellness DojoEmail: info@executewellness.com

It's not until well into Darren's adulthood that he discovers the truth of his father's secret past. And what does he do with his father's secrets? He keeps them. But only for a while.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Mike Ascher

Pastor Mike Ascher

FRIDAY HR 3 Monster Sports - NBA finals a wrap? NHL finals a wrap? What are the two times in life you would rather call dad then mom? What is the best advice you dad ever gave you?

I can remember sitting with my 7 year old son and telling him that the bible actually says that the sins of father will..

Oof. C'mon pops.+ the nickname your family gave your ex!

Army news has been pretty slow this week, so answer dad questions from the discord. Don't worry, we're all in this together Discord is available to all Patreon members at every level. Sign up and get access - https://www.patreon.com/Hellofawaytodie  This is the final week for orders to arrive before Christmas, so get them in by Friday - https://www.hellofawaytodie.com/shop 

Hey Dad's!! Ever feel the tug in your heart, torn between providing the best for your family and the dream of a life where work doesn't steal a moment from your loved ones? Gina dives deep into this conundrum, asking the ultimate question: HOW do you balance work and life? When is enough really enough? In this episode, Gina reflects on her own family's journey through the rollercoaster of financial ups and downs, especially during the 2008 recession. From the tough times to the bounce-back, she shares the crucial decision-making moments, highlighting the pivotal question her husband had to confront: When is it time to say, "I've got enough"? For all you dads out there navigating this challenging balancing act, it's about making choices that align with what matters most to you. _________________________________________ Join us in our exclusive community for women, Revitalized Sisterhood. We are bringing womanhood back to its rightful place! - Revitalized Sisterhood Join us on Instagram - Revitalized Womanhood Instagram Join us on Facebook - Revitalized Womanhood Facebook

Episode 14 of Don't F*ck This Up is here, and this week we're sitting down with Scott Kaylin, CEO and Founder of Kaylin + Kaylin Pickle. That's right, it's The PickleMan himself! A lifelong entrepreneur and get-up-and-do-the-damn-thing-er, Scott takes us on his journey into Pickleland and why it's never too late to try something new. Along the way, we talk about career reinvention, what led to his company going completely viral and why he means it when he says, “Happiness in every crunch”. So c'mon and climb aboard the pickle-shaped rocket ship that is Kaylin + Kaylin and let Scott serve you some inspiration – and a $3 pickle flight! Download, review, and follow the podcast so you never miss an episode.Follow Don't Fuck This Up on IG: @dontfuckthisup.podcastFollow Lauren Alvarez on IG: @LaurentheAlvarezFollow Scott on IG: @scottkaylinFollow Kaylin + Kaylin on IG: @kaylinandkaylinFollow Kaylin + Kaylin on TikTok: @kaylinandkaylinOrder your pickles here! www.kaylinandkaylin.comEmail the show at advice@dontfckthisup.com for your questions to be answered on an upcoming episode!

Children want their parents attention. Constantly my kids are asking, "Dad, are you watching?" or, "Dad! Look! See me?" The idea of me watching them does not cause them anxiety but great joy, why? Because no matter what they are doing, they want to please me. Well...as children of God, how does the idea of Him watching make us feel? If the answer is fearful, then we are not walking like children as we should be. If we make it our aim to be pleasing to God in all that we do, then we should desire for him to be watching. #SetYourMindAbovePodcast

If you're a dad of a daughter who has ever tried to figure out how to connect with your daughter at a deeper level, this is the podcast for you. Sonny and Josh sat down for a great conversation with speaker, author, licensed professional counselor Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield, maybe better known as "The Dad Whisperer"!Thanks so much for listening to Old Dad / New Dad, brought to you by the KCBI Podcast Network. We'd love for you to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen to podcast that way more people can join in on the encouraging conversation!Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/The Dad Whisperer Podcast: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/podcastLet's Talk: Conversation Starters for Dads and Daughters: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/booksThe Abba Project: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/theabbaprojectKCBI Podcasting Network: https://kcbi.org/podcastsAfternoons with Sonny: https://kcbi.org/on-air/afternoons-with-sonny

If you're a dad of a daughter who has ever tried to figure out how to connect with your daughter at a deeper level, this is the podcast for you. Sonny and Josh sat down for a great conversation with speaker, author, licensed professional counselor Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield, maybe better known as "The Dad Whisperer"!Thanks so much for listening to Old Dad / New Dad, brought to you by the KCBI Podcast Network. We'd love for you to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen to podcast that way more people can join in on the encouraging conversation!Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/The Dad Whisperer Podcast: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/podcastLet's Talk: Conversation Starters for Dads and Daughters: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/booksThe Abba Project: https://www.drmichellewatson.com/theabbaprojectKCBI Podcasting Network: https://kcbi.org/podcastsAfternoons with Sonny: https://kcbi.org/on-air/afternoons-with-sonny

Email Lennie at mycarguru2020@gmail.com

Yes, the title of the episode is the reality. We are recording our final episode of Hey Dad.This isn't the end of us working together, actually its a new beginning.We explain it all in the episode, so check it out.After that, you can go subscribe to the podcast Reese will be joining David on.Thanks for a Great Run!!Reese and David

Davi The ScapeGOAT at iHeart Studios with Atlanta morning radio show Moote, Kimmie, & Otis. They'll discuss that work life / home life balance and boundaries when it comes to having babies. There's many levels of DGAF in parenting - which one are you currently in? Kimmie talks her last job and how radio ain't changed a bit - yikes!   Moote, Kimmie, & Otis go over their personal red flags in a business setting. BEWARE of those that demand cult-like-loyalty and spin, spin, spin that narrative! Does Moote suffer from Tweet Regrets? Davi shares that awkward first "inkling" she was gonna get fired and the heartbreak of missing a huge opportunity to bond with her dad.  Wanna watch exclusive podcast episodes like THiS one (OR) attend the exclusive ScapeGOAT Fan Club parties? Become a Member here:  https://glow.fm/davithescapegoat/ Check out the tour schedule to catch Davi's comedy or podcast live! https://www.davicrimmins.com/tour  Got questions, comments, drama, or need advice from the G.O.A.T.? Hit us up: https://www.davicrimmins.com/contact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Randall Terry focuses on his feature film, "Time Boys," that resulted from his desire to fulfill his sons' wishes to make a family-friendly movie in which they could star.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey Dad Can You Pierce My Ear?

In today's episode, David Smalls talks about the impact of active fathers on society.