Podcast appearances and mentions of Hope Springs

"Kids are always processing what happens around them. Stories give them a way to do that." - Paul McCusker   Summary Today on the podcast we welcome Paul McCusker, an award-winning writer whose stories have shaped the imaginations of families for decades. Many know Paul from Adventures in Odyssey, where he wrote and produced some of the series' most loved episodes. We talk about his newest project, Welcome to Hope Springs, and how great stories combine truth, beauty, and engagement. Paul shares why we should never talk down to kids, especially ages ten to twelve, when their imagination is wide open and they are learning how to see the world. Stories help children live through characters, process hard realities, and even prepare for moments they have not faced yet. This conversation is about why stories matter for kids and families today. Key Takeaways Great stories combine truth, beauty, and engagement. Stories that last are not just entertaining. They communicate deeper truths in a compelling way. We should never talk down to children. Kids, especially ages 10–12, can understand much more than adults often assume. Children at this age are learning how to see and interpret the world around them. Stories help children process real-life events. Kids are always processing what happens around them, even when they do not yet know how. Stories allow children to live vicariously and see how others face challenges and grow. Stories prepare us for future moments. The wisdom in good stories plants seeds that shape future choices and actions. Talking about stories with parents deepens their impact. Conversations help kids understand lessons, character growth, and how to respond in real-life situations.   Couple Discussion Questions What stories do you remember from your childhood?  Maybe it was something you read or something you heard or a movie you watched.  Can you think of a story that helped you see a situation or choice differently in your own life? What was it and why did it stick with you?   Resources https://www.augustineinstitute.org/hopesprings  

In this engaging 1:1 interview, Christina Semmens sit down with Paul McCusker, Senior Director of Creative Content for the Augustine Institute, a seasoned storyteller and Catholic convert. Paul shares his journey from evangelical roots to Catholicism, as well as his creative process and the inspiration behind his latest series 'Welcome to Hope Springs.' In this Say Yes to Holiness episode, we discover how storytelling can deepen our faith, help us explore spiritual themes, and also inspire the next generation.Conversation Themes:Paul's spiritual journey from Baptist to CatholicThe role of storytelling and audio dramas in faith The development, purpose, and impact of 'Hope Springs' series Sound Bites:"The Catholic imagination is so much bigger.""Saints obeyed even when they felt crazy.""Music and history inspire my storytelling.""There's a million reasons to become Catholic""God knows me and loves me in spite of myself"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Paul McCusker and His Journey02:37 The Intersection of Writing and Spirituality05:11 Transitioning to Catholicism and Its Impact on Creativity07:55 The Genesis of Hope Springs10:39 Exploring the Themes of Hope Springs13:25 The Resurgence of Audio Dramas16:20 The Future of Hope Springs and Its Impact18:51 Personal Reflections on Storytelling and Faith

Middle school is a crucial but often overlooked stage where kids need practice, not perfection, as they navigate social disconnection, increased screen use, and deep self-consciousness. By creating opportunities for real-life interaction, responsibility, healthy voices, and manageable discomfort, parents can help kids build the resilience and capability they'll need for what's ahead. Resources mentioned: Raising Worry-Free Girls: Helping Your Daughter Feel Braver, Stronger, and Smarter in an Anxious World by Sissy Goff Raising Emotionally Strong Boys: Tools Your Son Can Build On for Life by David Thomas . . . . . .  Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Pre-order our new book, Capable and grab tickets for Capable - The Book Tour here! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . .  If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form. HOPE SPRINGS: Listen along to Hope Springs, https://tinyurl.com/RBGHopeSprings, a family audio drama series following the lives and adventures of a few Colorado kids  QUINCE: Go to ⁠Quince.com/rbg⁠ for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg⁠. Exclusions apply. NIV ILLUSTRATING BIBLE: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGNIVIllustratingBible to learn more about the NIV Illustrating Bible. EVERYBODY GET A JUICE BOX: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGJuiceboxPodcast to learn more about this podcast on neurodiverse parenting.  SHOPIFY: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGShopify to learn more about Shopify! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Hope Springs Anew: Triumph Amidst Golan's Field Hospital Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-04-30-07-38-19-he Story Transcript:He: בבוקר אביבי, בגולן הירוק והפורח, פעל בית החולים שדה כקן דבורים הומה.En: On a spring morning, in the green, blossoming Golan, the field hospital buzzed like a busy beehive.He: טמר רצה בין מיטות החולים, החיוניות שלה חזקה אך עייפה.En: Tamar ran between the hospital beds, her vitality strong yet weary.He: היא כבר כמה חודשים כאן, ועכשיו, עם חג הפסח באוויר, הרגישה את ההעומס הכבד מתקרב.En: She had been here for several months already, and now, with Passover in the air, she felt the heavy burden approaching.He: איתן, חייל צעיר שנפצע בשדה הקרב, שכב על אחת המיטות.En: Eitan, a young soldier wounded on the battlefield, lay on one of the beds.He: הוא הסתכל מסביב, רואה את חבריו מגיעים פצועים מתקרית הקרבות הסוערת.En: He looked around, seeing his friends arriving injured from the fierce combat incident.He: כל מה שרצה זה לקום ולעזור, אבל הגוף שלו הגביל אותו.En: All he wanted was to get up and help, but his body limited him.He: "טמר," הוא קרא כשהיא עברה לידו.En: "Tamar," he called as she passed by him.He: "מה אני יכול לעשות? אני לא יכול רק לשכב כאן."En: "What can I do? I can't just lie here."He: טמר עצרה לשנייה, חיוך עייף על פניה.En: Tamar paused for a second, a tired smile on her face.He: "אתה יכול לדבר איתם, לעודד אותם. זה עוזר יותר ממה שאתה חושב."En: "You can talk to them, encourage them. It helps more than you think."He: היא המשיכה בבהילות, עובדת עם חומרים מוגבלים.En: She continued urgently, working with limited supplies.He: המציאות המאתגרת הכריחה אותה להיות יצירתית.En: The challenging reality forced her to be creative.He: היא מצאה פתרונות מתוך המעט הקיים, ואת ליבו של איתן זה נגע.En: She found solutions from the little available, and it touched Eitan's heart.He: "היא כמהה להצליח," חשב לעצמו.En: "She strives to succeed," he thought to himself.He: "אני יכול גם לעשות יותר."En: "I can do more too."He: בעוד הזמן עבר והפציעות מתרבות, איתן הקדיש את עצמו לשיחות קצרות עם יתר הפצועים.En: As time passed and the injuries multiplied, Eitan devoted himself to brief conversations with the other wounded.He: הוא שמר על רוחם, סיפר בדיחות קטנות ולהפתעתו, הרגשת היכולת חזרה אליו.En: He kept their spirits up, told small jokes, and to his surprise, the feeling of capability returned to him.He: בתוך שעות הכניסה הצפופות, הטמפרמנט הדינמי של טמר ואיתן השפיע גם על הצוות.En: Within the crowded hours of admissions, the dynamic temperament of Tamar and Eitan also influenced the staff.He: בסופו של יום ארוך, הטיפול באחרון הפצועים הסתיים.En: At the end of a long day, the treatment of the last wounded soldier was completed.He: טמר נפלה בכיסאה, עייפות עוטפת אותה כמו שמיכה אבל בתוך ליבה ניצתה התקווה מחדש.En: Tamar collapsed into her chair, exhaustion enveloping her like a blanket, yet hope ignited anew in her heart.He: היא הבינה שכל מאמץ, כל חיוך, כל תחושה של אנושיות עושה הבדל.En: She realized that every effort, every smile, every sense of humanity makes a difference.He: איתן, שצועד לאט אך בטוח על קביים, חייך אליה בעיניים מוארות.En: Eitan, walking slowly but surely on crutches, smiled at her with bright eyes.He: "ראיתי שכולנו נתנו יחד," הוא אמר.En: "I saw that we all gave together," he said.He: "אפילו כשאנחנו לא יכולים לפעול פיזית."En: "Even when we can't act physically."He: ביחד, הם נותרו שקטים, מתבוננים באופק הגולן, יודעי כי עם כל אחד שמחלים, עוד התמודדות נפטרה, והאביב ממשיך לפרוח מחדש.En: Together, they remained silent, gazing at the horizon of the Golan, knowing that with each person who recovers, another challenge is overcome, and spring continues to bloom anew. Vocabulary Words:blossoming: הפורחhospital: בית החוליםvitality: החיוניותweariness: עייפותburden: העומסbattlefield: שדה הקרבcombat: קרבותlimited: מוגבליםcreative: יצירתיתstrives: כמההcapability: היכולתtemperament: הטמפרמנטdynamic: דינמיexhaustion: עייפותenveloping: עוטפתignited: ניצתהhumanity: אנושיותcrutches: קבייםbright: מוארותphysically: פיזיתhorizon: אופקrecovers: שמחליםchallenge: התמודדותweary: עייףurgent: בהילותsupplies: חומריםsolutions: פתרונותtouched: נגעspirits: רוחםjokes: בדיחותBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Dr. Bruce Perry unpacks the difference between stress, adversity, and trauma, helping parents shift from asking “what's wrong with you?” to “what happened to you?” He explains how moderate, predictable stress actually builds resilience, while overprotection can limit a child's growth. He also highlights the powerful role of relationships—especially how a regulated parent can calm a dysregulated child—and offers practical ways to foster connection through rhythm, movement, and presence. Ultimately, he reminds us that understanding a child's story is key to helping them heal and grow. Resources mentioned: The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Bruce Perry and Maia Szalavitz Born for Love: Why Empathy Is Essential—and Endangered by Bruce Perry and Maia Szalavitz What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey . . . . . .  Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Pre-order our new book, Capable and grab tickets for Capable - The Book Tour here! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . .  If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form. HOPE SPRINGS: Listen along to Hope Springs, https://tinyurl.com/RBGHopeSprings, a family audio drama series following the lives and adventures of a few Colorado kids  QUINCE: Go to ⁠Quince.com/rbg⁠ for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg⁠. Exclusions apply. NIV ILLUSTRATING BIBLE: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGNIVIllustratingBible to learn more about the NIV Illustrating Bible. EVERYBODY GET A JUICE BOX: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGJuiceboxPodcast to learn more about this podcast on neurodiverse parenting.  SHOPIFY: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGShopify to learn more about Shopify!CASPER: Save up to 30% on mattresses and up to 35% on everything else when you go to Casper.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elementary school is a critical window where kids begin asking, “Am I capable?” and moments of struggle, not success, are what build that belief. Anxiety, anger, lack of regulation, and low agency are showing up more than ever, but they're also opportunities. When parents pause before rescuing, hold steady boundaries, and give kids space to problem-solve, they're actually building resilience and mental health. Capability grows when kids experience manageable challenges with support, learning, “I can do hard things.” . . . . . .  Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Pre-order our new book, Capable and grab tickets for Capable - The Book Tour here! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . .  If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form. HOPE SPRINGS: Listen along to Hope Springs, https://tinyurl.com/RBGHopeSprings, a family audio drama series following the lives and adventures of a few Colorado kids  QUINCE: Go to ⁠Quince.com/rbg⁠ for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg⁠. Exclusions apply. NIV ILLUSTRATING BIBLE: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGNIVIllustratingBible to learn more about the NIV Illustrating Bible. EVERYBODY GET A JUICE BOX: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGJuiceboxPodcast to learn more about this podcast on neurodiverse parenting.  SHOPIFY: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGShopify to learn more about Shopify! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zee Pendleton and Angela Rice talk about how kids today are dealing with more anxiety, screen time, and big emotions, and remind us that raising capable, confident kids really comes back to the basics. Staying present, setting clear boundaries, and giving kids chances to try, fail, and grow in everyday moments makes all the difference. . . . . . .  Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Pre-order our new book, Capable and grab tickets for Capable - The Book Tour here! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . .  If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form. WAYFAIR: Get organized, refreshed, and ready for the holidays for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. OUR PLACE: Stop cooking with toxic cookware, and upgrade to Our Place today. Visit fromourplace.com/RBG and use code RBG for 10% off sitewide. HIYA HEALTH: Visit hiyahealth.com/RBG to get 50% off your first order. HOPE SPRINGS: Listen along to Hope Springs, https://tinyurl.com/RBGHopeSprings, a family audio drama series following the lives and adventures of a few Colorado kids  QUINCE: Go to ⁠Quince.com/rbg⁠ for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg⁠. Exclusions apply. NIV ILLUSTRATING BIBLE: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGNIVIllustratingBible to learn more about the NIV Illustrating Bible. EVERYBODY GET A JUICE BOX: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGJuiceboxPodcast to learn more about this podcast on neurodiverse parenting. SHOPIFY: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGShopify to learn more about Shopify! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking for great audio content for your kids? Today, creator, Paul McCusker tells us all about the new audio drama, Welcome to Hope Springs, from the Augustine Institute. Gillian Kantor tells us what she learned from her kids this month while in Rome, and we meet singer/songwriter Sylvia Kay.

Toddlers' “I do it myself” moments aren't defiance, they're signs of healthy development and a deep drive for autonomy. When parents pause before stepping in, allow struggle, and offer both empathy and boundaries, they create space for confidence and capability to grow. David and Sissy talk about how separation, independence, and small responsibilities all play a key role in helping toddlers build trust, resilience, and the belief that “I can handle things.” Resources mentioned: The Connected Child by Dr. Karyn Purvis Braver, Stronger, Smarter by Sissy Goff The Daystar Dogs Series . . . . . .  Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Pre-order our new book, Capable and grab tickets for Capable - The Book Tour here! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . .  If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form. HOPE SPRINGS: Listen along to Hope Springs, https://tinyurl.com/RBGHopeSprings, a family audio drama series following the lives and adventures of a few Colorado kids  QUINCE: Go to ⁠Quince.com/rbg⁠ for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg⁠. Exclusions apply. NIV ILLUSTRATING BIBLE: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGNIVIllustratingBible to learn more about the NIV Illustrating Bible. EVERYBODY GET A JUICE BOX: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGJuiceboxPodcast to learn more about this podcast on neurodiverse parenting.  SHOPIFY: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGShopify to learn more about Shopify! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A great resource for families and schools has been released by the Augustine Institute called “Welcome to Hope Springs,” an audio drama series that looks at life through a Catholic worldview. We'll be talking with Peabody Award-winning author Paul McCusker, the writer and producer of the series about its development and distribution. The story follows a tight-knit group of young friends who gather at a restored train station that becomes a community hub. As they pursue new adventures, they solve unexpected mysteries and encounter unexplainable events.  The kids gradually learn that their choices and relationships shape who they are becoming, offering meaningful moral lessons that give parents easy openings for conversations about character and faith.

Sherman Bucher shares that while boys today are more open to getting help, many are also more anxious, less confident, and unsure how to take their next steps. He highlights the impact of online messages shaping boys' views of strength and encourages parents to redefine it through emotional awareness and resilience. The conversation emphasizes helping boys take healthy risks, build real-world friendships beyond screens, and grow through supportive relationships and strong boundaries at home. Resources mentioned: Louis Theroux: Inside the Manosphere (On Netflix) . . . . . .  Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Pre-order our new book, Capable and grab tickets for Capable - The Book Tour here! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . .  If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form. HOPE SPRINGS: Listen along to Hope Springs, https://tinyurl.com/RBGHopeSprings, a family audio drama series following the lives and adventures of a few Colorado kids  QUINCE: Go to ⁠Quince.com/rbg⁠ for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg⁠. Exclusions apply. NIV ILLUSTRATING BIBLE: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGNIVIllustratingBible to learn more about the NIV Illustrating Bible. EVERYBODY GET A JUICE BOX: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGJuiceboxPodcast to learn more about this podcast on neurodiverse parenting. SHOPIFY: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGShopify to learn more about Shopify! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

send us a text via Fan Mail!I welcome Paul McCusker to discuss the release of the new Augustine Institute audio drama Welcome to Hope Springs. Paul shares how this production came to be, how he discovered his talent in writing early in life and how audio dramas have a way of bringing the family together.   Welcome to Hope Springs | Audio Drama Series Augustine Institute1:02 - Adventures in Odyssey, stories and novels 9:58 - What led you to this form of art? 24:06 - Paul's conversion to the Catholic Church 41:09 - The story behind Hope Springs 52:12 - Listening with our kids and sparking conversation reading and relationships (blog post) ContactOn Instagram at @make.joy.normal By email at makejoynormal@gmail.comSearch podcast episodes by topic www.bonnielandry.caShop my recommended resourcesThanks for listening to Make Joy Normal Podcast! 

This episode highlights how boys develop true capability by practicing risk, emotional regulation, and perseverance in everyday moments. David and Sissy explain that modern life often removes these growth opportunities, and encourage parents to allow healthy struggle, teach regulation tools, and step back from rescuing—so boys can grow into resilient men whose strength becomes safety.  Resources mentioned: Raising Emotionally Strong Boys: Tools Your Son Can Build On for Life by David Thomas Strong and Smart: A Boy's Guide to Building Healthy Emotions by David Thomas . . . . . .  Sign up to receive the⁠ bi-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠monthly newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to keep up to date with where David and Sissy are speaking, where they are taco'ing, PLUS conversation starters for you and your family to share! Pre-order our new book, Capable and grab tickets for Capable - The Book Tour here! See our speaking dates, purchase books and check out our courses here.. . . . . .  If you would like to partner with Raising Boys and Girls as a podcast sponsor, fill out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form. HOPE SPRINGS: Listen along to Hope Springs, https://tinyurl.com/RBGHopeSprings, a family audio drama series following the lives and adventures of a few Colorado kids  QUINCE: Go to ⁠Quince.com/rbg⁠ for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. BOLL & BRANCH: Get 15% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at Bollandbranch.com/rbg⁠. Exclusions apply. NIV ILLUSTRATING BIBLE: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGNIVIllustratingBible to learn more about the NIV Illustrating Bible. EVERYBODY GET A JUICE BOX: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGJuiceboxPodcast to learn more about this podcast on neurodiverse parenting. SHOPIFY: Go to https://tinyurl.com/RBGShopify to learn more about Shopify! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kids will learn what Jesus did after he rose from the dead and how he spent time with his disciples before returning to heaven. They'll hear how Jesus gave his followers an important mission—to go and tell everyone the good news that he came to save sinners—and that we get to be part of that mission too.

We're joined by Paul McCusker is the Senior Director of Creative Content for the Augustine Institute, talks about “Welcome to Hope Springs,” a Screen-Free Audio Adventure for Families. Stephanie Sterling, Executive Director of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, talk about the Way of the Cross in downtown Baton Rouge on Good Friday. Laura Kelly Fanucci, author of Living Easter 50 Days to Practice Resurrection, joins us.

In this episode of The Cordial Catholic, I'm joined by Paul McCusker, the Peabody Award-winning creator of Adventures in Odyssey and the Focus on the Family Radio Theatre to discuss his incredible conversion to Catholicism. McCusker's worked defined generations of Evangelical Christians and as someone steeped in the Protestant, sometimes anti-Catholic world, we find out, in this episode, what made him consider Catholicism: what drew him in, what drew him deeper, and the questions and realizations that eventually led him to join the Catholic Church. Paul's story is amazing. And, as you might expect, he's a fantastic storyteller.For more from Paul visit his website. And check out his work from the Augustine Institute including our family favourite new series Welcome to Hope Springs available on podcast everywhere.Send your feedback to cordialcatholic@gmail.com.Sign up for our newsletter for my reflections on episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive contests.To watch this and other episodes please visit (and subscribe to!) our YouTube channel.Please consider financially supporting this show!For more information visit the Patreon page.  All patrons receive access to exclusive content and if you can give $5/mo or more you'll also be entered into monthly draws for fantastic books hand-picked by me.If you'd like to give a one-time donation to The Cordial Catholic, you can visit the PayPal page.Thank you to those already supporting the show!Theme Music: "Splendor (Intro)" by Former Ruins. Learn more at formerruins.com or listen on Spotify, Apple Music,A very special thanks to our Patreon co-producers who make this show possible: Amanda, Elli and Tom, Fr. Larry, Gina, Heather, James, Jorg, Michelle, Noah, Robert, Shelby, Susanne and Victor, and William.Beyond The BeaconJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney for inspired interviews with Catholics living out our faith!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFind and follow The Cordial Catholic on social media:Instagram: @cordialcatholicTwitter: @cordialcatholicYouTube: /thecordialcatholicFacebook: The Cordial CatholicTikTok: @cordialcatholic

Kids will learn why Jesus had to die on the cross and how his death paid the punishment for our sin. They'll also hear the good news that Jesus didn't stay dead—he rose again, defeating sin and death so that anyone who trusts him can be with God forever.

Kids will learn that Jesus is the promised King who came to Jerusalem to save sinners, not just to be welcomed by a crowd. They'll also see how the special meal Jesus shared with his disciples points to the cross and helps us remember that he gave his life to rescue his people.

Anna and Matt tell the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector who climbed a tree just to see Jesus. Through this story from Luke 19, we'll learn that Jesus came to save sinners and that Jesus has the power to change our hearts.

Anna and Matt explore a wonderful truth: God wants to talk with us. Through the story of Jesus welcoming children in Mark 10:13–16, we learn that Jesus loves spending time with them and that they can talk with God anytime through prayer.

PSHS Theatre Director Allyson Boylan and stars of Hope Springs

Drawing on his background in science and international affairs, UP alum Scott Knackstedt shares how innovation can be used to advance health equity in low-resource settings around the world, transforming barriers to access into opportunities for impact. As a Senior Commercialization Officer at PATH, a global health nonprofit based in Seattle, Scott helps develop affordable, life-saving technologies that range from low-cost devices to next-generation vaccine platforms. His work focuses on overcoming access challenges through formulation and delivery innovations that make health solutions more effective, scalable, and equitable.

Feeling lost or empty? Ruth's story shows us that true hope and redemption are found in Jesus, the ultimate Redeemer. The video for this sermon can be found through this link to our Youtube Channel

Drawing on his background in science and international affairs, UP alum Scott Knackstedt shares how innovation can be used to advance health equity in low-resource settings around the world, transforming barriers to access into opportunities for impact. As a Senior Commercialization Officer at PATH, a global health nonprofit based in Seattle, Scott helps develop affordable, life-saving technologies that range from low-cost devices to next-generation vaccine platforms. His work focuses on overcoming access challenges through formulation and delivery innovations that make health solutions more effective, scalable, and equitable.

What if everything you've been taught about love languages is outdated and keeping you from the connection you crave? In this raw and high-energy episode, Emilia and Alan break open The Five Love Languages No One Talks About, the real codes to emotional depth, passion, and unstoppable partnership. Forget surface-level affection, this is about conscious love that challenges, ignites, and transforms. If you're ready to stop settling for “fine” and start building a love that's alive, electric, and unbreakable, this episode will wake something up in you. It's time to upgrade how you love. Press play and feel the fire.Show notes:(3:30) Why traditional love languages fall short(5:01) The truth about unmet emotional needs(8:10) Lessons from Hope Springs on connection(10:47) The real reason couples stop expressing feelings(14:43) Listen to Jason's and Lisa's testimonial on Alan and Emilia's Relationship Coaching.(16:29) Introducing the five conscious love languages(19:00) How proactive thoughtfulness strengthens trust(21:25) Conscious loving care that melts distance(23:49) Building mutual mastery as a couple(25:54) The power of loving challenge in growth(29:29) Invitation to grow your love consciously(31:43) OutroDigital Assets:Conscious Couple Giveaway Worksheet: “The 25 Conscious Love Languages” - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bilZ2LfQ6tg6q_oAIALyiVkSQevU_Kzo/view___________________________

Support the Glad Trad PodcastPaul McCusker sits down to talk about Christian storytelling, audio dramas, and the upcoming audio production of Hope Springs00:00:00  Why are older books so descriptive00:07:40 Writing a novel vs writing a script00:14:23 The world of audio drama00:20:46 There's a certain intimacy to audio 00:26:36 How Paul got started directing00:30:54 What an audio drama set is like00:34:27 Preparing actors00:45:36 British actors are best00:50:12 Production of Hope Springs01:00:43 A Stranger Things Vibe01:04:29 Audio drama is growing01:10:19 What is the secret to a great audio drama Thank you to our Patrons / Channel Members:Jason YaokamKate ElminiCarol JBrenda AllorAllan SmithKathryn BurksEmilio PereaFollow us @gladtradpodcast Video Episodes on Youtube

On this episode of The People's Show, Bik Nizzar talks NHL debuts for Kudryavtsev and Tolopilo, and makes a bold comparison between Rory McIlroy's Masters quest and the Canucks' Stanley Cup hopes. With Inter Miami's visit to Vancouver on the horizon and the Whitecaps heating up, the sports scene in the city is buzzing. Emmy nominated broadcaster and former NHLer Brett Festerling joins to reflect on end-of-season meetings and what it's like being a bubble player. Plus, there's scrutiny on Elias Pettersson's performance and a discussion about whether the NHL should rethink rules around fighting after the punch on Forbort. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Federally Qualified Health Centers were created during the civil rights era to bring health care to more people, particularly underserved communities. Here in Northern Nevada, HOPES was originally a clinic for patients with HIV but has since expanded into a FQHC providing primary care and other services to around 14,000 patients in the Reno/Sparks area. On this episode of Renoites, I spoke with HOPES CEO Sharon Chamberlain about the history of HOPES and the services they provide, especially the type of services needed by our most vulnerable citizens. We also discussed how health care options have changed during her career, and the priorities of HOPES including harm reduction syringe exchange, sexual health and STI testing, medically assisted treatment for addiction, and mental and behavioral health. HOPES recently opened a second clinic immediately adjacent to the Cares Campus and operates the Hope Springs tiny home transitional housing community right across the street. We talked about the importance of this new location and making health care accessible to the unhoused. Thank you so much for listening! Did you know that Renoites is entirely funded by listeners just like you? Please consider supporting the show financially! You can just send a one time contribution via Venmo to @renoites or sign up to support monthly on Patreon! If you have guest suggestions, feedback, or otherwise want to get in touch, email me at conor@renoites.com Please tell people about the podcast and help spread the word by posting about it and telling your friends! Your word of mouth is worth much more than any online ad or boosted social media post. Thank you!

This week Ryan explains the greatness of spring, the best seasons, talks the oddity of cars and why the Browns can never just be normal. Subscribe! E-Mail:RyanWoodspod@gmail.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1Nu1XWTHMOjA9--Eb3Ry-ATwitter: https://twitter.com/Ryan_WoodssInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanwoodss/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntoTheWoodspod/

It's been a minute since we talked about Meryl Streep, so we decided what better time than Valentine's Day and her 2012 romantic drama Hope Springs. Streep stars alongside Tommy Lee Jones as a sexually frustrated older couple who submits to a couples therapy retreat (led by Steve Carell) hoping to rekindle their spark. Summer counterprogramming … Continue reading "328 – Hope Springs"

EPISODE 8: Hal and John resume their investigation, discovering the clues Sheriff Kerrie had dug up about Hope Springs' gruesome history and the shady past of the Hand of God's Mercy. The pieces of the puzzle all begin falling into place – the Black Hand is a cult that has been run by the Macon family for decades, performing necromantic ritual sacrifices in a repeated effort to summon an eldritch being known as The Centre. Their efforts have never taken – until now, due to the volatile power of the Starheart. Their latest sacrifice of Todd Rice, however, seems not to have summoned the intended entity. Due to Rice's otherworldly metahuman abilities, the cult has instead summoned a creature of darkness from beyond the veil of space, something known as a Sun Eater. It begins slowly devouring the light of the Earth's sun, plunging the planet into darkness. In the midst of all this, Hal grapples with his own “fall from grace.” He knows what he has done wrong, and just wants to put things right if he can. He and John are caught between two impossible choices – disobeying the Green Lantern Corps' orders not to intervene, or allowing their planet to suffer the consequences of their inaction. Ultimately they decide to step in and stop the cult of the Black Hand, only to find that their efforts are for naught. The Sun Eater has already been summoned, and it will take an extraordinary amount of light in order to destroy it. In the fight against the cult, Hal's ring is remotely deactivated by the GLC in order to prevent its use. John realizes it's up to him to stop the Sun Eater, but he doesn't know if he has what it takes. Realizing what must be done, Hal decides to take John's ring for himself and fly into space to face the Sun Eater in John's stead. He pours everything he has into the creature, overloading the Sun Eater, the ring, and himself with sheer light and power. As the power disintegrates Hal, he shouts his old oath one final time. On Earth below, John watches as the blackened sky turns dazzling green, and then fades back to a sunlit day. He realizes that Hal has sacrificed himself to save them all. Once again, John is brought to Oa for disciplinary action by the Guardians. However, John has no regrets for his actions, nor does he have any doubts as to Hal Jordan's true character. Grudgingly admitting that John made the proper judgment call, the Guardians reactivate Hal's old ring and pass it on to John. He is left as the sole Green Lantern of Earth, a responsibility that he solemnly accepts. John's final act of the series is to adopt Hal Jordan's old oath as his own – the same oath that he once accused of being “corny,” but now which he understands the true meaning and weight of. END

EPISODE 7: Hal and John return to Hope Springs to the startling news of Sheriff Kerrie's disappearance. This time it's Hal's turn to fly off the handle. He practically turns the town upside down in his search for her, with John desperately pursuing in an effort to cool him off. Hal initially confronts Macon, but has no conclusive proof of any wrongdoing. They circle back to their previous lead with the Spider Guild operation. Both of the GLs are disturbed to learn that the crime ring is even more gruesome than they'd previously believed, uncovering a full-fledged “anthroform trafficking ring” that was used to smuggle the Horminth Collective onto Earth. Amongst the refugees they find Sheriff Kerrie, alive but gruesomely disfigured and hardly resembling anything human anymore. In a rage, Hal uses his ring to do what he'd threatened in his previous interaction with the Spider Guild – he murders all of them, declaring to John, “You saw it – it was self-defense.” John is horrified by Hal's behavior, but has little time to reflect on it as several other members of the Green Lantern Corps descend on Earth – Ch'p, Salaak, and Katma Tui. They initially came to retrieve the Horminth collective from its imprisonment on the moon, but have been alerted to Hal's rampage in Hope Springs. They darkly recognize that Hal should not have his ring, and take both he and John into custody. The two are transported to Oa, where John submits to interrogation. Here's where the bookends of John and Hal's interrogations from Episode 1 come into play. Here, in this interrogation, John learns more about Hal's prior disbarment from the Green Lantern Corps – Salaak claims that Jordan had “cracked” and couldn't handle the mental strain of his responsibilities. He also implies that Jordan is not at all what he has appeared, and provides disturbingly sound motive for Hal to be the true suspect behind Alan Scott's murder – perhaps it was Hal who initially stole the Starheart, hoping to claim its power for himself before ditching it with Todd Rice after discovering he couldn't use it. John doesn't want to believe any of it. He is let off with a grim warning from his superiors, the Guardians, who send both of the humans home. Back on Earth, John is given back custody of his and Hal's rings. John returns to Hope Springs to mourn his failures. Here he is approached again by Hal, who asks for his ring back. John is deeply suspicious, which Hal is aware of and claims to understand – but Hal explains that, despite his powerlessness, his will to solve the case and avenge Kerrie remains steadfast. Jordan asks John to trust him and help him tie up loose ends. Though hesitant, John hands over Hal's ring. They charge up together one last time. END EPISODE 7 

EPISODE 6: In Des Moines, we get a peek at Guy Gardner's life as GL. It's vastly different from John's. Guy is a total asshole, gambling and getting drunk and paying hookers and using his ring to make money doing parlor tricks in bars. He's a loose cannon with a penchant for unrestrained violence, who loves being famous, and who has no sense of responsibility. John and Hal drop in on him at his trashed hotel room. The mood of their scenes in this episode is honestly really fun, as it's clear that by now Hal and John have really bonded as bros. They make fun of Guy for being such a dickhead with his powers, clearly trying to egg him on into doing something stupid. John takes advantage of Gardner's love of gambling by proposing a wager – Gardner and Hal arm wrestle, and if Hal wins, he gets his old ring back for a day. Gardner accepts, and promptly beats Hal by cheating with his ring. Dissatisfied, Hal goes double or nothing – they play a game of chicken, and the winner gets the ring for a week. Gardner cockily accepts. Meanwhile, back in Hope Springs, Sheriff Kerrie keeps an eye on William Macon and the Hand of God's Mercy. Digging through old town records, she learns of Macon's family background – they began as owners of a humble funeral parlor before expanding to own half the property in Hope Springs. She also digs up some sinister facts about Macon's parents' deaths, and their tangential connection with several brutal murders in the town's past. Kerrie arrives at Macon's estate, and has a cold interaction with Macon's wife Zoe. In frustration, the sheriff wonders where the Green Lanterns are. Back in Des Moines, Guy and Hal face off in a game of chicken on a pair of motorcycles. This time, Hal is the one to win. Furious, Gardner proposes a final contest – a full-on fistfight with no rings. The winner gets to be Green Lantern of Earth permanently. John is anxious about the proposal, having already seen Gardner's penchant for violence. Hal, however, accepts. Guy makes a big show of the ordeal, hosting the event at a local boxing gym in full view of a large audience. The fight gets off to a rough start, with Guy pummeling his older opponent. Hal, however, refuses to stay down, outlasting Gardner through sheer endurance and will. In the aftermath, Hal accepts his old ring back from a reluctant Gardner. Elated, he and John take to the skies together for the first time as superpowered partners. While continuing to snoop, Sheriff Kerrie uncovers a bizarre ritual occurring amongst the religious zealots of the Hand of God's Mercy. She witnesses Alan Scott's son, Todd Rice, willingly use himself as a human sacrifice to the cult, who burn him alive with the Starheart in an effort to summon an extraterrestrial entity they call “the Centre.” William Macon appears, with his followers referring to him as “The Black Hand.” They apprehend the sheriff before she can escape. END EPISODE 6 

EPISODE 5:  John, Hal, and Kerrie interrogate Todd Rice in the police station at Hope Springs. He has a record as a juvenile repeat-offender with links to gang activity in cities like Gotham and Detroit. It's clear that he is quite mentally disturbed, unwilling to speak to them openly and cryptically stating that Hal is a “black shadow” clinging to John's light. While examining the Starheart in evidence, Hal gives some background on the link between it and John's lantern. Though both were created by the Guardians of the Universe, the Starheart was a far more primal, uncontrollable source of power. It was only later that they refined the “green element” into something suitable to be used as a weapon, meaning that the Starheart is effectively a prototype. Hal tries to harness the power of the Starheart with Alan Scott's ring, but the power does not avail itself to him. To Kerrie, Hal privately voices his desire to have a ring of his own once again. It seems he's allowing himself to finally drop his “tough guy” persona and be vulnerable with her, and things almost get intimate – but Kerrie pulls back, and Hal instantly clams up again. The next day, the owner of the Grasping Flats halfway house arrives at the police station to “bail” Rice out. The man is William Macon, a wealthy local real-estate mogul and Rice's personal caretaker. He provides an alibi that all but exonerates Rice of any wrongdoing – Rice has recently begun working for and living with Macon at his own private estate, where Macon runs a religious institution meant to reform troubled youths. He also provides a reason for the Starheart's existence in Rice's possession: Alan Scott gifted it to his son shortly before his death. A scan with John's ring reveals that Macon is telling the truth, and despite the fishiness of the situation, Sheriff Kerrie convinces the Lanterns to let Rice and Macon walk free with the Starheart. John is livid at having to do this, but Hal insists it's the right call overall. John flies off to investigate Macon himself, much to Hal's chagrin. Kerrie remarks that Hal's hotheadedness must be rubbing off on the younger GL. Investigating Macon's estate and institution (the Hand of God's Mercy), John finds no apparent evidence of any foul play. He does, however, find Macon's wife Zoe, whom he is immediately spellbound by. Zoe insists that her husband is a good man, and though it's clear John isn't fully convinced, he relinquishes his brazen violation of her family's privacy and leaves. Dejected that the evidence trail has gone seemingly cold, John retreats to a local bar where he finds Hal. The two reminisce about their shared frustrations. As they do, they see a familiar face on TV: Guy Gardner, Earth's other Green Lantern, is showboating in Des Moines not far from Hope Springs. Guy is John's “sector partner,” though they've never truly worked together. Hal reveals that Gardner's current power ring is actually Hal's old one, and John mischievously proposes that Hal reclaim it. Hal grins. END EPISODE 5

Hal and John take a road trip to Wisconsin. Sheriff Kerrie cannot accompany them, as the region is outside of her jurisdiction – but not outside of a Green Lantern's. John wishes to use the ring to fly them there quickly, but Hal insists that they take his truck. In his experience, having the godlike powers of Green Lantern leads to a sense of detachment from the people you protect. He counsels John to remain grounded, alluding to “an old friend” that taught him  something very similar back in Hal's heyday. This is a minor allusion to Hal's comic book friendship with Green Arrow. During the trip, John pokes and prods at Hal, wrestling more information out of him regarding the older man's history. Hal resists opening up at first before sharing his sobering reality: he retired as Green Lantern out of a desire for a “normal” life with his old flame, Carol Ferris. Unfortunately, despite Hal's best efforts, his relationship with Carol fell apart nonetheless, leaving him with no ring, no love, and no direction in life. John is moved by Hal's honesty. They arrive in a small town called Cedar Hollow, at the adopted home of Jennie-Lynn Hayden. The girl's adoptive mother is reluctant to allow the two men to talk to the girl, and upon meeting her, they see why – she is a metahuman disfigured from her father's long-term contact with the Starheart. The girl hates her heritage and wants a normal life, and a brief conversation quickly reveals she had nothing to do with her estranged father's death. However, it does point Hal and John towards another lead – Jennie's equally-estranged twin brother, Todd Rice, who lives not far from Hope Springs back in Iowa. The tense interrogation reveals the troubling reality that superheroism in this world leaves many scarred and damaged. On the trip across the state border to find Jennie's brother Todd, John opens up about himself to Hal. He was once a marine who served in Iraq, and in order to protect his platoon, John was forced to shoot and kill an enemy combatant who was only a child. The incident has haunted him ever since, and was why he hesitated to act during the riot caused by the Horminth – the line between innocence and guilt was once again blurred. Hal is surprised to learn of John's military service, finding it a point of familiarity as Hal was in the Air Force. Though the two men share scars and regrets, if there is one thing both can agree on, it's that being Green Lantern is one of the few choices in life they have no regrets over. Back in Iowa, they attempt to find Todd Rice at his residence in the Grasping Flats, a creepy halfway house for troubled youths. A search uncovers something startling – the Starheart is there amongst Rice's belongings. Before they can contact Sheriff Kerrie, however, a sinister shadow creature emerges to dispatch Hal and flee the scene. John gives chase, and after an airborne pursuit across the countryside, he subdues the assailant. It turns out to be none but Todd Rice himself.

Shout out to "Listen Up, Poozers - A Green Lantern Podcast"! EPISODE 3: Hope Springs starts to recover after the chaos caused by the Horminth Collective. John does his best to repair the damages, earning the town's trust and admiration. Hal is clearly envious of the townsfolks' adoration of him, but tries not to show it. Hal takes John on a “beat,” touring the less scrupulous parts of town. Using his wits and experience rather than a ring, he identifies a black market trafficker from the alien Spider Guild in a gunshop who admits to smuggling the Horminth onto Earth. After an interrogation and search, John is unsettled by Hal's unsavory methods of dealing with the underworld, and equally reluctant to take advice from someone who “threw away” the ring. Hal hotly insists he threw nothing away. Between their duties, they discuss different philosophies of life and crime fighting, from John's refusal to wear a mask to Hal's supposedly “corny” oath. Their disagreements lead them to a deeper discussion in a diner, where both men touch on their shared regrets and motivations. Striking a nerve in each other, they decide to resolve their differences in a brawl. Hal hotly insists John leave the ring in his truck's glove compartment, since it will automatically protect him if it's on his person. John, equally angry, agrees. They fight to a standstill, both refusing to admit defeat until Sheriff Kerrie arrives to break things up. Hal and John return to Hal's rental truck, realizing with a sinking feeling that the ring has been stolen from the glove box. The rest of the episode intercuts between the shenanigans of Hal and John trying to track down their power ring with Sheriff Kerrie doing the mundane (but useful) work of pursuing leads. Her findings indicate that Alan Scott had an estranged teenage daughter, who visited him just the day before the murder. Hal and John finally find the ring after tracking down several local ne'er-do-wells. They've sold it to the gun store owner, oblivious to the fact that the man is actually an alien from the Spider Guild. John is hesitant to face the Spider Guild and its agents without the help of the ring, but Hal brazenly approaches the problem as he always has this far — fists first. It doesn't go smoothly, but using a combination of teamwork, grit, and sheer ballsy-ness, the two GLs are able to recover John's power ring from the Guildsman and his henchmen. Both Hal and John walk away from the experience with a newfound respect for one another. Hal realizes that John is a true-blue man of honor rather than a gloryhound, and John develops a new understanding of Hal's “fearlessness.” He is brave, but that bravery borders on suicidal mania. John seems to both respect and fear this in equal measure. Reuniting with Sheriff Kerrie, the GLs learn about Alan Scott's daughter, 17-year-old Jennifer-Lynn Hayden from Wisconsin. Though her father has been dead for days, she suspiciously hasn't entered the picture. Hal and John think it's time to pay her a visit. END EPISODE 3

Spoilers coming your way via reddit.com/r/LanternsTVSeries that might have plot details for the entirety of Season 1 of Lanterns. EPISODE 2: With Hal's help, John and Sheriff Kerrie detain the alien suspects at the local police station. Hal recognizes them as a Horminth Collective, an amorphous flesh blob that can split into multiple shape-shifting bodies. He falls back into his old ways as GL, advising John and Kane to detain the suspects on the moon until they can be transferred to Oa. The Collective begs them for terrestrial containment, and John and Kerrie allow it. Angered by what he sees as lax treatment of a dangerous criminal, Hal relinquishes the ring to John and prepares to leave town again. John returns to investigating. Searching the ranch, he finds the strange energy signature again. It leads him to Alan Scott's depowered ring, discarded in a field, but the stolen lantern remains missing. John interrogates the Horminth Collective, which insists it had nothing to do with Alan Scott's murder but refuses to reveal why it is on Earth. Because of Hal's advice being ignored, the Collective escapes captivity and John fails to stop them. Sheriff Kerrie proposes he ask Hal for assistance due to the former Green Lantern's experience, but John is too proud to accept help. Kerrie goes to find Hal on his behalf, stopping him at a bus station at the edge of town. They discuss what happened to his life, and Hal reveals little while implying that he's made a lot of decisions that he regrets. He decides to reluctantly stay and help John, but only because Kerrie asked him to. They get flirty, but stop short of reigniting any old flame between them due to Kerrie's current marriage and family. John, meanwhile, is angry with himself for screwing up twice. We get some insight on his motivation through flash cuts of the past – he's a war veteran and a former marine with some obvious emotional trauma weighing on him. He hunts down and captures a part of the Horminth Collective and notifies the sheriff that he's done so. Once again, however, he's ambushed by Collective drones from amongst a crowd of onlookers. John is hesitant to use his ring since he can't tell which of the bystanders are innocent and which are Horminth shapeshifters. Sheriff Kerrie and Hal arrive to help, and there's an action scene that mirrors a real-life riot in the downtown area of Hope Springs. Hal meets up with John in the middle of the brawl and coaches the younger GL on how to recognize the Horminth. With Hal's guidance, John drops the entire Collective with one punch to the creature's “brain” (disguised as a small child). The riot ends. Without waiting to detain the Horminth again, Hal begins brutally interrogating the creature in the middle of the street. John is perturbed by what is essentially torture, but Hal gets the Horminth to finally admit why it is on Earth: it was hired by “The Black Hand” to recover and traffic an item called “the Starheart,” and tells them where they can find it. After Hal finishes the interrogation, he tells John to throw the Horminth to the moon. John cannot bring himself to condemn the creature to misery, so he hands Hal the ring. Hal launches the creature into space in a sphere of green light, then cavalierly hands the ring back to John. John is unsettled by the ease with which Hal is willing to inflict pain on another creature. END EPISODE 2 

Spoilers coming your way via reddit.com/r/LanternsTVSeries that might have plot details for the entirety of Season 1 of Lanterns. EPISODE 1: The episode is bookended with flash-forwards of John Stewart and Hal Jordan being interrogated by strange, alien voices in dark, unearthly rooms. They explain how they met. The main story is set in modern day USA. In a town called Hope Springs in Iowa, an elderly man is murdered during a robbery. The murderer steals a glowing green lantern and a green ring. There are visual hints that the old man once had some connection to the Justice Society of America, a group of superheroes active in the 1950s. It feels vaguely Watchmen-ish. The next morning we meet Hal Jordan, flying a fighter jet high enough to see the stars. He wakes up and it's a dream, he's living as a drifter bumming it across the country kind of like he was in the 90s comics. He's got the white temples and is way more angsty/jaded than Ryan Reynolds‘ Hal. He DOES NOT have his ring, but still has a heroic streak that shows when he stops a gas station robbery. He moves on before the police can find him. Meanwhile the sheriff of Hope Springs, Kerrie Kane, investigates the murder from the opening scene. GL John Stewart arrives. Sheriff Kerrie is surprised to see him, saying she knew the previous Green Lantern and he wasn't black. John states that he's new. John initially thinks investigating a small-time murder in bumfuck nowhere is below his pay grade, until he finds out who the murder victim was: Golden Age GL Alan Scott. John picks up an energy signature at the crime scene using his ring. Hal arrives in town shortly after, and uses the last of his money to purchase a few hours flying a prop plane. It makes him happy, but he realizes he needs a job. Hal approaches Sheriff Kerrie. Apparently they once had a relationship in the past, back when Hal was Green Lantern. Kane isn't particularly happy to see him, since she now has a husband and children. However, she sees Hal is down on his luck and lets him have a job as a janitor at the police station. While working, Hal sees John visit with Kane as GL. John has no idea who Hal is (he's mentioned he “never knew the guy” who owned the ring before him). John works on the case, flying all across the state scanning for the energy signature from the murder scene. Though he takes his job as GL seriously, he's very inexperienced. He finds a lead on the signature and alerts Sheriff Kerrie before investigating. Hal, wanting a piece of the action, sneaks off after the sheriff. On the ranch, John is ambushed by shape-shifting aliens posing as a family of ranchers. They're freaky, amorphous flesh blob things that meld together. John's inexperience comes to bite him, as he forgot to charge his ring. It gets pulled off by the aliens before John can recharge it with his summoned lantern. Sheriff Kerrie arrives and saves John, but both of them get cornered until Hal comes to the rescue. He juices up John's ring and uses it to deal with the shape shifters, and John is amazed to realize that Hal was his predecessor all along. END EPISODE 1 

Gillian Oakley returns as we revisit 2012's HOPE SPRINGS! Together we dig into the careers of the two leads, the 2012 box office, forgettable bad movies, and the clever screenplay thats at the heart of the movie

After a lengthy absence, The Playa UNplugged makes a triumphant return! Join Benny "The Playa" Scala as he interviews writer, filmmaker, podcaster, and professional wrestling historian Mike Messier. The audio version of Mike's latest book “Fight or Play Basketball” recently dropped on Audible. Mike has won 84 awards in the entertainment industry. As an actor, Messier has shared scenes with Meryl Streep & Elisabeth Shue (in Hope Springs), Wesley Snipes, Cybill Shepherd & Mario Van Peebles (in Hard Luck), and Richard Jenkins & Frances McDormand (in Olive Kitteridge). Mike contributed as a screenwriter to the horror film The Manor (2018) and as a script consultant to Lennox Lewis - The Untold Story (2020). The screenplay version of Fight or Play Basketball and Disregard the Vampire - A Mike Messier Documentary are two of Mike's more popular projects. Mike's passion for writing has led him to write stage plays, screenplays, poetry, and novels. Mike is also the creator of the Avalonia Festival of Short Films etc., and the Avalonia Photography Competition. Mike is on TikTok as “artistmikemessier”, and his YouTube Channels are “1 Pro Wrestling & Sports Fan” as well as “1 Mike Messier.” His website is www.mikemessier.com. #fightorplaybasketball #playaunplugged #mikemessier

The town of Hope Springs, NY is way too cool with the concept of a snowman coming to life. Alex McDaniel and Kyle Bandujo talk hot snowmen, overzealous cops, how Hallmark movies are like cereal, and everything else in "Hot Frosty." Follow Alex @alexmcdaniel, and Kyle @kylebandujo Buy "Movies With Balls: The Greatest Sports Films of All Time, Analyzed, Mapped, and Illustrated" here or wherever books are sold. You can support Big Screen Sports, get schedule updates, and pick movies to be covered in upcoming episodes by joining our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/bigscreensports. Big Screen Sports is hosted/edited by Kyle Bandujo, and produced by Aaron Figueroa, Mike Schubert, Steve Rogers, Kevin Frost, Mike Dries, Ryan "Nigel" Yager, Mike D, Chris Mycoskie, Andrew Tuegel, John Craig, Zach Rich, Stephen DeBow, Kevin Enkelmann, Dan McFall, Mac Lindsey, Curt Ritchie, Robert Dove, Andrew Tuegel, Jeff Estes, Anthony Scafone, Benjamin Baumann, Taylor Logan, Shawn Hoffman, Peter Robl, Jamie Bryan, and Classic Stadium Fire. Art for Big Screen Sports was created by Riki Prosper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To round out our year, Leyla and Aaron spend the holidays in Hope Springs with the 2024 Netflix Christmas Rom Com, "Hot Frosty!" We teach a snowman about cancer, pitch a Jennifer's Body Holiday Spinoff, and try to get Hugh Jackman on the show. We also talk about how we feel about this 5th season of Mortified, and our hopes for next year!  Links:  Iron Lung Episode Has Anyone Ever Told You You're Beautiful --- Our theme song is "Obsolete" by Keshco, from the album "Filmmaker's Reference Kit Volume 2." Our other projects: Aaron's TTRPGs- https://aaronsxl.itch.io/ Aaron's TTRPG Reviews- https://www.youtube.com/@aavoigt https://aavoigt.com/

No, this isn't Chaberting Gifts Pt. 2 but it's understandable you might think that seeing Lacey Chabert in another Christmas movie on this podcast. This time we're covering the new Netflix original Hot Frosty, a modern retelling of the timeless children's classic where a snowman comes to life with really rockin' abs. We talk about the town of Hope Springs and the sexualization of this Hallmark-esque Christmas movie, and we even get into some holiday cheer! We're also drinking Hardywood's Gingerbread Stout. Approximate timeline 0:00-12:00 Intro 12:00-20:00 Beer talk 20:00-end Hot Frosty Festivus continues next week! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bloodandblackrum/support

Recorded 12-01-2024: Pastor Larry Stephens delivers a message reminded the church of the hope we have in Christ the Lord. According to Isaiah, Messiah will come from the line of Jesse, be the example of humility and greatness, teach us to worship reverently, and demonstrate pursuing wisdom from the Lord. Special music led by Pastor Larry Stephens, "Always Good," written by Andrew Peterson.    CCLI Song # 7110702 Andrew Peterson © 2018 Jakedog Music For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI License # 198148

In this episode we discuss a PSA to people who send bad photos, how we all need to start wearing the same outfit 24/7, how alarming it is that a child made this hofro, Dustin Milligan's striking appearance, the classic "curtain billowing in the wind" trope, the anatomy and intellectual makeup of a hofro, grown women taking advantage of a 3 day-old snowman, the financial abuse committed against Lacey, the small town politics of Hope Springs and SO MUCH MORE!!!

Father Thomas Naval proclaims the Gospel (Mark 13:24-32) breaks open the word. Words for your Way from Santiago de Compostela Catholic Church in Lake Forest, California.

She has been a highly successful Waterloo Region Realtor for 30 years! Having, herself, experienced moving 18 times in 21 years, this was a big part of why she decided that pursuing this career was a clear fit. She is a helper by nature and takes great joy in standing beside her clients as they buy or sell residential real estate. A twice Past President of the Cambridge Real Estate Association, she has also volunteered as a Director with Community Living Cambridge as well as the Alzheimer's Association and Hope Springs.When not working, she enjoys riding her motorcycle and she is an enthusiastic participant in Royal Lepage fundraising rides for RLP Shelter Foundation and Women's Crisis Services of Waterloo Region, organizations that are both working to prevent and alleviate the effects of violence against women. She has ridden all around Canada and beyond, including Tuktoyaktuk, the Himalayas and Colombia.He has been a Realtor in the Peterborough area for fourteen years, and one of his key pillars are community support and involvement.As an avid motorcyclist for over twenty years, he says he would rather be on any bike any day, than in the coolest car. From a quick ride to the store to trips across the country, any time on a bike is a good time for him. And this is exactly why he is incredibly excited to be a part of the Realtors Care Ride again this year.Joining me on this episode of The MindShare Podcast to talk about ' Revving up for Charity: What You Need to Know About the Ontario REALTORS Care Foundation Charity Motorcycle Ride ', are Special Guests - REALTORS Val Brooks, and Ben vanVeen.5:35 *why do you support shelter-based charities, and what is the need in Ontario?9:50 *what is the motorcycle ride for charity?11:14 *Val, you told me you got your motorcycle license when you turned 50, what sparked this?18:10 *Val, can you tell us about the route you'll be taking this year?20:32 *Ben, can you tell us about the route you'll be taking this year?26:56 *Ben, as I understand it, this will be your second year riding?... what was the anticipation you had the first time you showed up to this event, and what was the experience like for you?37:42 *what's something that really stands out to each of you about the ride, this particular event, and the people who all come together to be part of it?43:45 *what if people don't ride, how can they still get involved?50:14 *how do people learn more, and where can they go to sign up for the ride for charity?50:54 *what would you say to anyone on the fence about getting involved?1:00:09 *how do you know its been a successful day for you?1:04:02 *any final words of wisdom you want to give to help everyone build more mindshare to get more market share?Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The MindShare PodCast with our special guests - REALTORS - Val Brooks, and Ben vanVeen, as we talked about ' Revving up for Charity: What You Need to Know About the Ontario REALTORS Care Foundation Charity Motorcycle Ride ' .Get your FREE gift on my homepage at www.mindshare101.com just for tuning in!I'd also be really grateful if you could take a quick second to go www.ratethispodcast.com/mindshare101 to rate the show for me.And we haven't connected yet, send me a message!Facebook: facebook.com/mindshare101 Instagram: instagram.com/davidgreenspan101Youtube: youtube.com/@DavidGreenspanLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/mindshare101

Today – The unique Hope Springs housing project and how 3D printing will help bring nearly 500 affordable housing units to Greeley. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ANN HARADA originated the role of Christmas Eve in Avenue Q on Broadway and in the West End. Other Broadway: Cinderella, Into the Woods, 9 to 5, M Butterfly, Seussical, Les Miserables. Selected Off-Broadway: Dear World, Fairycakes, Emojiland, Dropping Gumballs on Luke Wilson, Pacific Overtures, Brooklynite and Love, Loss, and What I Wore. Regionally: Babbitt (LaJolla Playhouse), The Closet (Williamstown), Matilda, Beauty and the Beast, & Mamma Mia (MUNY). Recent film: Jerry and Marge Go Large and Disenchanted. Add'l film: Sisters, Admission, and Hope Springs. She is one of the stars of the musical series Schmigadoon! (Apple TV+) Add'l TV: Gotham, Blue Bloods (recurring), Younger, Jim Gaffigan Show, The Good Wife, 30 Rock, House of Cards, Master of None, and Smash. Insta/Threads: @iamannharada, X:@annharada  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The town is buzzing with talk of the Hot Springs and how it will help the town. Meanwhile, Elizabeth and Lucas host Aunt Agatha and Julie, who make an interesting visit to Hope Valley.Watch on Philo! - Philo.tv/DTHThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/4438180/advertisement