Artifact that is recognised by members of a culture or sub-culture as representing some aspect of cultural identity
POPULARITY
Categories
In this episode of the Cardone Zone, Grant Cardone sits down with two powerhouse entrepreneurs from very different worlds: Jimmy John, founder of the iconic sandwich empire, and business legend Martha Stewart. Together, they break down what it takes to build brands that endure—speed, consistency, discipline, and relentless execution. Jimmy John shares how focus, simplicity, and operational intensity helped him scale one of the most recognizable food brands in America. Martha Stewart brings decades of experience in media, lifestyle, and entrepreneurship, offering insights into brand longevity, reinvention, and staying relevant through changing markets. From fast-growth entrepreneurship to legacy brand building, this episode delivers practical lessons on scaling, reputation, and sustaining success over time. Follow us on all our social platforms and visit GrantCardone.com for event dates, business resources, and upcoming opportunities.
In this listener-commissioned bonus episode, we break down the internet's favorite hockey romance through a gymnastics lens — rivalry, pressure, secrecy, slow burns, and why elite athletes are like this. It's an adult conversation with minor spoilers, wheeze giggles, and Oscar's for butt. Commissioned by Karla. This is her fault. Thank you, Alyssa for proving our point with her Ilya speech. UP NEXT Fantasy Gymnastics podcast every Wednesday College & Cocktails : Sunday Jan 25th, 12:00 PT after UCLA at Michigan State (FOX) 2026 Cocktail and Mocktail menu here Add exclusive Club Content like College & Cocktails to your favorite podcast player (instructions here). SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Here Fantasy: GymCastic 2026 College Fantasy Game now open. Never too late to join! Merch: Shop Now Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History and Code of Points Archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources CHAPTERS 00:00 – Kentucky Gymnastics Recreates the Heated Rivalry Pump-Up Speech 00:00:17 – Welcome to GymCastic (Bonus Episode) 00:00:45 – You Don't Need to Know This Show (We'll Explain Everything) 00:01:04 – Adult Conversation Warning (Minor Spoilers) 00:01:38 – What Is Heated Rivalry? 00:03:05 – Hockey the Way Jade Carey's Floor Is Choreography 00:04:40 – Why Are We Doing a Podcast About This? 00:06:10 – The Books: Game Changers Series by Rachel Reid 00:07:05 – Why People Are Obsessed With This Show 00:10:00 – Secret Romance, Gay Panic, and Years of Tension 00:13:25 – The Stairs Scene, Chirping, and Competitive Flirting 00:17:05 – Gay and Bi Representation That Feels Real 00:20:20 – From Coco Gauff to SNL to Massive Fan Edits 00:25:40 – Casting Heated Rivalry for Gymnastics 00:29:30 – Greatest of All Time Criteria (Hot, Dominant, Iconic) 00:33:40 – If Not Russian, then who? 00:37:10 – Why a Lesbian Version Wouldn't Work (Sue Bird Was Right) 00:40:20 – Khorkina for Maximum Chaos Casting 00:43:30 – Why Sports Movies Are Never Realistic (And That's Fine) 00:46:40 – The Gym Mom vs Kip's Dad: Loyalty and Support 00:49:50 – Secret Relationships vs The Closet 00:53:10 – Panic, Fear, and Being Recognized 00:56:10 – Complications of Secret Hookups (Spring Break Story) 00:59:50 – Sub Dom Dynamics in Elite Sports 01:06:40 – Is This a Turning Point for Sports Fan Fic Smut?
In this episode of The Speed of Culture, Matt Britton sits down with Tom Donaldson, Senior Vice President and Head of Creative Play Lab at the LEGO Group, live from CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Tom introduces LEGO SmartPlay at CES 2026, a new platform powered by LEGO SMART Brick technology that allows LEGO creations to respond to how they are played with, all through interactive LEGO play without screens. The conversation explores LEGO System in Play innovation, long-cycle R&D product development, and how creativity and AI leadership shape the future of play.Follow Suzy on Twitter: @AskSuzyBizFollow Tom Donaldson on LinkedInSubscribe to The Speed of Culture on your favorite podcast platform.And if you have a question or suggestions for the show, send us an email at suzy@suzy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Charles may be King of England, but who is the King or Queen of royal fashion? How do Royals choose what they wear day-to-day?What is the most iconic Royal fashion moment ever?And just how influential was Princess Diana as a style icon?On Talking Royals this week, Charlene White is joined by Royal Editor Chris Ship, Royal Expert Lizzie Robinson, and Omi from fashion label Vin + Omi.The fashion brand has created pioneering fabrics and clothing from waste from the King's royal estate.He tells us how the King loved their work so much that he would send boxes of his weeds to them during lockdown!The panel shares their favourite royal fashion moments - from Charles in pink to Kate's stunning coronation dress, and of course Diana's 'athleisure' look.Meanwhile, as workers prepare Marsh Farm, the rumoured next home for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, when will he move out of Windsor and into Sandringham?On Thursday, the Prince of Wales traded in his suit for a flat cap and made his way to Herefordshire to raise awareness of rural mental health as patron of We Are Farming Minds.Plus, did you catch the Duchess of Edinburgh's personal essay in the Daily Telegraph?Sophie is royal patron of Plan International and wrote to mark and raise awareness of 1000 days of war in Sudan.
The GoGaddis Real Estate Radio Show with Cleveland (Cleve) Gaddis | Atlanta Housing & Market Insight Presented by Modern Traditional Realty Group www.moderntraditionsrealty.com In this episode of The Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio Show, we dive into the latest shifts in the Atlanta real estate market and share a fascinating story from the world of pop culture that happened right in our backyard. Whether you are a first time home buyer navigating today's inventory or a homeowner curious about local property values, this segment breaks down the data you need to know to move forward with confidence. How's the Market? Atlanta by the Numbers We analyze the current market statistics for Atlanta to help you make informed decisions in a changing landscape: Fresh Inventory: There are 1,467 new listings currently hitting the market, providing more options for those ready to buy. Opportunities for Buyers: A significant 1,426 homes have seen a price decrease, signaling a shift that could offer better leverage for your next purchase. Active Sales: The market remains steady with 715 homes under contract and 1,365 successful closings recently recorded. We also take a look at a unique sale that recently captured headlines in the metro area. The iconic Wheeler House from the hit Netflix series stranger things has officially changed hands! The Location: While set in Hawkins, Indiana, this "80s time capsule" is actually nestled on two acres in the Atlanta suburb of East Point. The Sale: After only two weeks on the market, two super fans purchased the home for $365,000—which was $15,000 over the asking price. The Nostalgia: Though only the exterior was used for filming, the interior is a retro dream featuring wood paneling, built-in bookshelves, and a classic brick fireplace. Special Segment: Advice for the First Time Home Buyer Nervous about buying your first home this year? You aren't alone. The process can feel overwhelming, but we address the most important steps for a first time home buyer in 2026: Listen now to get the full scoop on Atlanta's market health and this "strange" piece of real estate history! The insights shared on the show reflect the same guidance provided daily by Modern Traditional Realty Group. If you'd like a no-pressure conversation about your home's value, equity position, or the right timing for your next move, visit ModernTraditionalRealtyGroup.com or to connect with Cleve and submit questions for future segments, visit GoGaddisRadio.com. Listen now for clarity, confidence, and perspective around your biggest investment.
THUNDER BUDDIES FOR LIFE!! Ted Full Movie Reaction Watch Along: / thereelrejects Start your online business with a $1 per-month trial when you visit https://www.shopify.com/rejects! Gift Someone (Or Yourself) An RR Tee! https://shorturl.at/hekk2 With Season 2 of Peacock's TED Series coming this March +, the success of 2025's The Naked Gun, Greg, John, & Jon give their TED (2012) Reaction, Recap, Analysis, Breakdown, Commentary, & Spoiler Review!! Greg Alba, John Humphrey, & Jon Maturan react to Ted (2012), the outrageous R-rated comedy from creator Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy, American Dad!) that became a massive pop-culture hit by blending raunchy humor with surprisingly heartfelt themes about growing up. Equal parts bromance and fairy-tale gone wrong, Ted pushes the limits of studio comedy while delivering endlessly quotable moments. The film centers on John Bennett (Mark Wahlberg – The Departed, The Fighter), a man-child struggling to transition into adulthood while remaining inseparable from his childhood wish come true: Ted, the foul-mouthed, beer-loving teddy bear voiced by Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy, A Million Ways to Die in the West). John's arrested development puts strain on his relationship with Lori Collins (Mila Kunis – Black Swan, Forgetting Sarah Marshall), who wants a more responsible partner and grows increasingly fed up with Ted's influence. The supporting cast includes Giovanni Ribisi (Avatar, Saving Private Ryan) as the obsessive and unhinged Donny, whose fixation on Ted escalates into the film's wild third act, and Joel McHale (Community, The Bear) as Lori's smug boss Rex. Iconic and highly searched moments include Ted's viral Flash Gordon obsession and Sam Jones cameo, the infamous Thunder Buddies musical number, the Boston bar brawls, and the chaotic kidnapping finale that cements Ted's place in comedy history. With shock-value jokes, unexpected heart, and MacFarlane's signature comedic timing, Ted stands as a surprisingly strong feature film debut from one of TV Animation's most prominent forces. Follow Jon Maturan: https://www.instagram.com/jonmaturan/?hl=en Intense Suspense by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Support The Channel By Getting Some REEL REJECTS Apparel! https://www.rejectnationshop.com/ Follow Us On Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reelrejects/ Tik-Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reelrejects?lang=en Twitter: https://x.com/reelrejects Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReelRejects/ Music Used In Ad: Hat the Jazz by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Happy Alley by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... POWERED BY @GFUEL Visit https://gfuel.ly/3wD5Ygo and use code REJECTNATION for 20% off select tubs!! Head Editor: https://www.instagram.com/praperhq/?hl=en Co-Editor: Greg Alba Co-Editor: John Humphrey Music In Video: Airport Lounge - Disco Ultralounge by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Ask Us A QUESTION On CAMEO: https://www.cameo.com/thereelrejects Follow TheReelRejects On FACEBOOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: FB: https://www.facebook.com/TheReelRejects/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/reelrejects/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/thereelrejects Follow GREG ON INSTAGRAM & TWITTER: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thegregalba/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/thegregalba Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Even before he was “DJ Conner,” Michael Fishman was a working-class kid raised by, as he puts it, 'a farm girl from Virginia and an immigrant father'. That blue-collar pride still defines and inspires him today in the important work he's doing within the mental health space.In this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Michael takes us back to the moment his life changed forever: the Roseanne audition. While dozens of kids were asked to tell a joke, he was the only one who actually did, and that single moment opened the door to one of television's most iconic families.Michael reflects on his relationship with Roseanne Barr as one rooted in mutual support, advocacy, and honesty. He opens up about the infamous National Anthem moment and the dark turning point that followed, when he (along with the entire cast) began receiving death threats, which unfortunately continue to this day. With tactical training and a sober understanding of celebrity risk, Michael explains why public life can feel like living under a magnifying glass and how quickly admiration can escalate into rage and danger.Michael describes himself as a “young witness” on a highly volatile set, inconspicuous because of his age, yet uniquely positioned to observe the power of a woman who was unafraid to say the hard thing, be a lightning rod, and push conversations forward long before it was fashionable to do so (stay 'til the end for a round of Roseanne 'Guest Star Roulette' where Michael fondly recalls a memorable appearances, by before-they-were-famous stars!)Today, Michael calls himself a “kindness assassin.” His brand is authenticity, no filters, no fake persona, no algorithm-chasing, and he has intentionally built online spaces where people can breathe, be vulnerable, share and heal in community away from the constant churn of politics and vitriol.He speaks candidly about navigating relationships with people whose views differ from his own, including Roseanne, and why he believes compassion does not require agreement. His message is simple but urgent: find commonality, keep loving the person, and remember that meaningful change often comes from those willing to absorb the lightning.From his child actor start to his director turn on the Roseanne reboot, to his life philosophies on trauma, mental health, and resilience, Michael leaves us with one powerful truth: You are not your scars. You get to define you.In current media -- Fritz: Danny Collins, recently added to Netflix libraryWeezy: Netflix original film, Jay KellyPath Points of Interest:Michael Fishman WikipediaMichael Fishman IMDBMichael Fishman TiktokMichael Fishman on InstagramMichael Fishman on FacebookThe Safe Space CollectiveMclusive Media Production CompanyDanny Collins Jay Kelly
It's 2026 and we're kicking off New Year, New You with zero delusion and a lot of honesty. LaLa turned 40 on Christmas and officially became an adult. Her birthday gifts included panties, bras, cozy socks, mittens, and an emerald bracelet. Practical. Iconic. Shawna? She got a meat tenderizer, a cheese grater, and an ongoing three-week now stomach situation. Doctors keep telling her to “just go to the ER,” which feels super helpful when they're just going to say to follow up with GI and she could leave with the flu, super flu, COVID, or pneumonia instead. We get into milestone birthdays, questionable gifts, medical burnout, and why January makes everyone feel like they're already failing. From resolution culture versus real life to redefining success as sustainability, this episode is about lowering the bar, listening to your body, and surviving the new year without losing your mind.
What if the sixth album is where artists finally step into their truest selves? We kick off season six by chasing that idea across genres and decades, building a mix from Radiohead, Bruce Springsteen, Kendrick Lamar, Prince, Beyoncé, The Beatles, Jay-Z, John Mayer, The National, Michael Jackson, Foo Fighters, and A Tribe Called Quest. The pattern that emerges is hard to ignore: at album six, craft meets courage, and the results can be seismic.We start with contrasts—Radiohead's brooding There, There and the stark intimacy of Springsteen's Nebraska—spotlighting how restraint can be as bold as maximalism. Kendrick's TV Off punches at the attention economy while delivering meme-worthy flair; Prince's Purple Rain towers as a career-defining epic that still feels alive. We trace personal and cultural stakes in Beyoncé's Formation, then pivot to The Beatles' Michelle to show how Rubber Soul reshaped their sound with subtle, melodic confidence.The timeline gets playful when Jay-Z's '03 Bonnie & Clyde foreshadows what Lemonade would later complicate. We celebrate narrative craft in John Mayer's Walt Grace, sit with The National's vulnerable “45%er” admission, and marvel at Thriller's near-greatest-hits density anchored by Billie Jean. Foo Fighters' The Pretender turns sixth-album freedom into kinetic fuel, and A Tribe Called Quest's We the People closes with legacy, politics, and gratitude—proof that a final statement can still move the culture forward.https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/sam-2026-6th-album-mix/pl.u-1LX0auZaGX7V1. There, There - Radiohead2. Nebraska - Bruce Springsteen3. tv off - Kendrick Lamar featuring Lefty Gunplay4. Purple Rain - Prince5. Formation - Beyonce6. Michelle - The Beatles7. '03 Bonnie & Clyde - Jay-Z featuring Beyonce8. Walt Grace's Submarine Test, January 1967 - John Mayer9. I Need My Girl - The National10. Thriller - Michael Jackson11. The Pretender - Foo Fighters12. We The People.... - A Tribe Called Quest Support the showVisit us at https://www.superawesomemix.com to learn more about our app, our merchandise, our cards, and more!
The new Euphoria Season 3 trailer is finally here, and we’re giving you our unfiltered thoughts — Em, a self-proclaimed super fan, couldn't be more excited and is raring to unpack every detail, including where we think the next instalment of the show will take the story. Watch the trailer here.And Chris Noth has responded to backlash after seemingly agreeing with a brutal jab at Sarah Jessica Parker following her Golden Globes honour this week, all amid lingering controversy from his past.Plus, Brooklyn Beckham has sent his parents a legal letter demanding they communicate only through lawyers as part of the long-running family feud — to say its complicated would be an understatement, but don't worry we're here to break it down for you.THE END BITS Love binge-watching TV? The Spill has launched Watch Party — spoiler-filled episode deep dives into the shows everyone’s talking about. Find the feed on Apple or Spotify. Support independent women's media Follow us on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. And subscribe to our Youtube channel. Read all the latest entertainment news on Mamamia... here. Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here. Do you have feedback or a topic you want us to discuss on The Spill? Send us a voice message, or send us an email thespill@mamamia.com.au and we'll come back to you ASAP! CREDITS Hosts: Laura Brodnik and Em Vernem Executive Producer: Monisha Iswaran Audio Producer: Scott StronachBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Movie Shelf dives deep into the latest Superman film, discussing character arcs, notable performances, and the film's overall impact. We highlight the evolution of Superman's character, noting how this version presents a more relatable and human side of the iconic hero. The conversation also touches on the portrayal of supporting characters like Mr. Terrific and Krypto, emphasizing their significance in the narrative. We also share our appreciation for the film's visual effects and nostalgic elements while critiquing certain changes to the Superman lore, particularly regarding his parents' motivations. As we reflect on the film's themes and character dynamics, we also compare it to previous Superman adaptations, providing insights into how the franchise has evolved over the years.Bacon RemindersConnect Nathan Fillion to Gene Hackman. Check out our next episode for the link!
240 - Joel Hoekstra In episode 240 of “Have Guitar Will Travel”, presented by Vintage Guitar Magazine, host James Patrick Regan speaks with guitarist Joel Hoekstra, in their conversation Joel describes living in New York City and growing up in the suburbs of Chicago with his parents who were both classical musicians and Joel tells us why he didn't pursue piano. Joel describes the impact of seeing AC/DC on MTV as a kid which slowed his sports interests. Joel describes his gear starting on his stepmom's guitar and he discusses his guitars from then on… and how he got the collecting bug and he discusses his custom Gibson's and Jackson's and the guitars he uses for each of his gigs. Joel tells us about his first bands through his gigs with Trans Siberian Orchestra, Whitesnake, Night Ranger, Jim Peterik, Cher… as well as his time spent as a pit guitarist for Broadway shows like Rock of Ages and Love Janis. Joel talks about using in-ear monitors and hearing loss and Joel talks about his time at GIT in Hollywood and working at Cherokee Studios. Joel discusses his new album “From the Fade” and the personal on the album and the chances for a tour and he describes the other projects he's working on: Revolution Saints, Hoekstra Gives, teaching remote lessons, Broadway's Rock of Ages band and Iconic (which includes a lot of his former Whitesnake bandmates as well as time spent producing other artists. Finally Joel tells us about what he does when he's not playing guitar… his kids, and anything to escape music and plans to go to NAMM next week. To find out more about Joel you can go to his website: joelhoekstra.com Please subscribe, like, comment, share and review this podcast! #VintageGuitarMagazine #JoelHoekstra #Whitesnake #TransSiberianOrchestra #JacksonGuitars #GibsonCustomShop #JamesPatrickRegan #FromtheFade #theDeadlies #NightRanger #RockofAges #Hoekstra13#haveguitarwilltravelpodcast #HGWT #tourlife Please like, comment, and share this podcast! Download Link
“Living for the STREEP” Series: We are here to celebrate the career of Mary Louise Streep….now known to most as Meryl Streep who has become widely known by critics, film-lovers, and audiences as likely our GREATEST LIVING ACTRESS. Ever since her earlier breakout roles in the late 1970's in films such as The Deer Hunter, and Kramer Vs. Kramer, she has carved out a filmography filled with brilliant performances in memorable films spanning a variety of genres including biopics, thrillers, family dramas, AND comedies. During this time, she has also earned a STAGGERING TWENTY-ONE Oscar nominations including THREE wins. Over the next several months, I will be revisiting one notable Streep film each month – each highlighting a different type of performance – culminating with the May 1 release of the long-awaited sequel featuring one of her more ICONIC roles as Miranda Priestly, The Devil Wears Prada 2.The late, great Oscar-winning filmmaker Mike Nichols (The Graduate, Silkwood, Working Girl) directed this biting comedic drama about Diane, an actress Diane (Meryl Streep) struggling with drug addication and her complicated relationship with her mother (Shirley MacClaine) who was also a famous performer. Also written by the late, great Carrie Fisher (Star Wars, When Harry Met Sally) who was adapting her own semi-autobiographical novel of the same name, this story delves mostly into Diane's frought (and often comedic) misadventures following her recent treatment at a drug clinic including her on-set struggles, her romantic life, and her attempts to carve out a new career for herself. This quotable gem featured a stacked supporting cast including Dennis Quaid, Annette Bening, Oliver Platt, Richard Dreyfuss, and the late, great Gene Hackman. Host: Geoff GershonEdited By Ella GershonProducer: Marlene Gershon Send us a textSupport the showhttps://livingforthecinema.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Living-for-the-Cinema-Podcast-101167838847578Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/livingforthecinema/Letterboxd:https://letterboxd.com/Living4Cinema/
Send us a textTwo hosts unpack a chaotic transfer portal window and explain why Texas' late additions changed the roster's ceiling. We balance excitement for new playmakers with sober talk about NIL budgets, O-line urgency, and the value of experience.• portal window stress turning into late wins• Cam Coleman as deep threat catalyst• adding veteran running backs to unlock space• offensive line as priority and bottleneck• defensive tackles adding mass and leverage• Muschamp scheme needing island corners• NIL economics and roster ROI trade-offs• why older teams with transfers win more• playoff notes and Texans defensive surge• spring ball plans and optimismBe sure to follow us on each of our social media platforms, Facebook IGX and TikTok, and be sure to click the subscribe button on our YouTube pageSupport the showPlease like and follow each of Stories Inside the Man Cave Podcast social media links on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and Tik Tok.
Today on the Jimmy Barrett Show:Iconic companies
Trash Tuesday LIVE! January 28th at the Comedy Store. Tickets on sale now! https://www.showclix.com/event/trash-tuesday-2026-january Andrea Jin and Rudy Jules are here in the New Year. We dive into childhood trauma, Andrea getting passed at The Comedy Store, Filipino funerals, and brand-new Titanic intel you definitely weren’t taught in school. Plus, we test our sanity in our very first Trash Tuesday game of Guess Who featuring some ICONIC characters. BTS, BONUS CONTENT AND MORE! Only on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/TrashTuesdayPodcast Thank you to out sponsors: Thank you Better Help! www.BetterHelp.com/TRASHTUESDAY Thank you bilt! www.joinbilt.com/TRASHTUESDAY Thank you Hers! www.forhers.com/TRASHTUESDAY *Listen to Esther's New Solo Pod!* https://www.esthersgrouptherapy.substack.com *Visit Ebb Ocean Club & Holiday Shop* https://www.ebboceanclub.com/ for Khalyla’s reef safe and biodegradable hair products! FOLLOW TRASH ON SOCIALS: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itstrashtuesday Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itstrashtuesday MORE ESTHER:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@esthermonster Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esthermonster/ MORE KHALYLA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khalamityk/ Tigerbelly Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@UCIyIoM_Nd8HtY19fuR_ov2A PRODUCTION:Studio Ten42: https://www.instagram.com/studioten42/ Guy Robinson: https://www.instagram.com/grobfps/ Arielle Jade (Editor): https://www.instagram.com/jade.rabbit.cce/ Elisa Hernandez Kohler: https://www.instagram.com/ellie.lianna/ Megan Clements: https://www.instagram.com/egggymeg/
Episode 221 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything! This week we are joined by the Founder and CEO of Icon Funnels Consulting, Caesar Hernandez!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of The Hitstreak, I get to sit down with Caesar Hernandez, founder and CEO of Icon Funnels Consulting. We discuss the transformative power of sales funnels, the importance of authenticity in marketing, and the personal journey that led Caesar from the fitness industry to becoming a marketing strategist. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding your audience, building relationships, and the role of fatherhood in personal growth. Caesar shares insights on effective marketing frameworks and the importance of resilience in overcoming challenges. The episode concludes with a call to action for entrepreneurs to focus on solving problems for their clients and to embrace the journey of growth and learning.Key Points:- Understanding click funnels is crucial for effective marketing.- Sales funnels focus on guiding customers to a single purchase.- Personal struggles can lead to significant business insights.- Authenticity in marketing builds trust with the audience.- Networking is essential for business growth and opportunities.- Effective marketing frameworks can transform a business.- Understanding your audience is key to successful product launches.- Strategy is vital for overcoming business challenges.About our guest: Caesar Hernandez is the founder and CEO of Icon Funnels Consulting, a Nashville-based marketing and strategy firm dedicated to helping established brands scale through high-converting offers, funnels, and media. With a proven track record of driving measurable growth, Caesar has collaborated with industry leaders such as world-renowned motivational speaker Eric Thomas, fitness legend Tony Horton (creator of P90X), and Nashville real estate visionary Tony Giarratana. Known for his ability to turn powerful ideas into movements, Caesar combines strategic insight with creative execution to help brands stand out, grow faster, and become truly iconic. His work sits at the intersection of psychology, performance, and storytelling—transforming the way businesses connect with audiences and build lasting influence.Follow and contact:Instagram: @therealcaesarhernandeziconfunnels.comSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/NickHiterFollow and Rate us on Spotify: https://spotify.com/NickHiterFollow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiterFollow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter
Chelsea is a Manhattan neighborhood with a rich collection of bars, restaurants, and things to do. While it's known for art galleries, there is much more to see and do for visitors of all ages.In this Chelsea Neighborhood Guide, we'll dive into everything you need to know about exploring this famous section of Manhattan.Here's what we will cover:Where is Chelsea in NYC?Why is it called Chelsea?Chelsea barsChelsea restaurantsChelsea coffee shopsThings to do in ChelseaFor an in-depth article about Chelsea and to get access to a Google Maps list with ALL the places we mention in this episode, head here: https://rebrand.ly/chelsea-nycWe highly recommend you take the time to explore Chelsea when you visit New York City! Hopefully this episode gives you some ideas for the best restaurants, bars, and things to do in Chelsea.You'll Have to Check It Out - SAPPEISAN in Chelsea (part of the Chase Sapphire Reserve's restaurant credit)Want even more NYC insights? Sign up for our 100% free newsletter to access:Dozens of Google Maps lists arranged by cuisine and location50+ page NYC Navigation Guide covering getting to & from airports, taking the subway & moreWeekly insights on top spots, upcoming events, and must-know NYC tipsGet started here: https://rebrand.ly/nyc-navigation-guide
Many of you have watched their work evolve over the years, shaping how modern cycling is seen and remembered. I've been lucky enough to have a front-row seat to that journey.Today, I'm joined by Ashley and Jered Gruber — a husband-and-wife photography duo and two of the most influential visual storytellers in the world of cycling. From their early years to the biggest races on the calendar, I've watched them quietly shape how the sport looks, feels, and is remembered.This conversation is an honest look into life inside the peloton. We talk about instinct versus technique, creative doubt, missed shots, and the pressure of making split-second decisions when there are no second chances. Jered and Ashley open up about working together under extreme stress, following the Tour de France for weeks on end, navigating chaos at Flanders and Roubaix, and why even after all these years, they still feel the urge to try something different.This isn't just a conversation about photography. It's about trust, partnership, curiosity, and earning your place — not by being loud, but by consistently doing the work at the highest level.This is Part 1 of a three-part series. In the episodes to come, we'll go deeper into how they met, their early years in cycling, full race-day workflows, and what still inspires them today.Hope you enjoy this one.CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro05:34 – First Dolomites memories & meeting Igor Tavella 08:45 – Most crazy expensive place they've slept in the Tour10:36 – Their favorite photo 11:37 – The shot they still regret missing 15:27 – Cycling's most underrated roads 18:06 – Post-Tour exhaustion & recovery 20:25 – Favorite races to shoot23:09 – Technique vs instinct 27:46 – Koppenberg vs Paterberg vs Kwaremont 32:24 – Gear, lenses & race-day survival 37:38 – Planning locations with moto pilots 40:44 – Graham Watson & early inspiration 44:32 – Explaining their job outside cycling 46:05 – Why documentary photography still matters 47:07 – EndingCONNECT Ashley Norris Gruberhttps://www.instagram.com/ashleygruber/Jered Gruber https://www.instagram.com/jeredgruber/Igor Tavellahttps://www.instagram.com/igortavella/Ustaria Posta Hotelhttps://www.instagram.com/ustariaposta/https://www.ustariaposta.it/– HOST –Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso. Connect: LinkedInCheck out our new collection: Castelli-cycling.comSUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONIf you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to podcast@castelli-cycling.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
If you are of a certain age, you may have heard of the Saturday Evening Post. If you know that publication, there is one man...
How can you build iconic characters that your readers want to keep coming back to? How can you be the kind of creator that readers trust, even without social media? With Claire Taylor In the intro, Dan Brown talks writing and publishing [Tetragrammaton]; Design Rules That Make or Break a Book [Self-Publishing Advice]; Amazon's DRM change [Kindlepreneur]; Show me the money [Rachael Herron]; AI bible translation [Wycliffe, Pope Leo tweet]. Plus, Business for Authors 24 Jan webinar, and Bones of the Deep. Today's show is sponsored by Bookfunnel, the essential tool for your author business. Whether it's delivering your reader magnet, sending out advanced copies of your book, handing out ebooks at a conference, or fulfilling your digital sales to readers, BookFunnel does it all. Check it out at bookfunnel.com/thecreativepenn This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn Claire Taylor is a humour and mystery author, the owner of FFS Media, and a certified Enneagram coach. She teaches authors to write stronger stories and build sustainable careers at LiberatedWriter.com, and her book is Write Iconic Characters: Unlocking the Core Motivations that Fuel Unforgettable Stories. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights, and the full transcript is below. Show Notes Why Claire left social media and how she still markets her books and services What the Enneagram is and how core fears and desires shape character motivation Using Enneagram types (including Wednesday Addams as an example) to write iconic characters Creating rich conflict and relationships by pairing different Enneagram types on the page Coping with rapid change, AI, and fear in the author community in 2026 Building a trustworthy, human author brand through honesty, transparency, and vulnerability You can find Claire at LiberatedWriter.com, FFS.media, or on Substack as The Liberated Writer. Transcript of the interview with Claire Taylor Joanna: Claire Taylor is a humour and mystery author, the owner of FFS Media, and a certified Enneagram coach. She teaches authors to write stronger stories and build sustainable careers at LiberatedWriter.com, and her book is Write Iconic Characters: Unlocking the Core Motivations that Fuel Unforgettable Stories. So, welcome back to the show, Claire. Claire: Thank you so much for having me back. I'm excited to be here. Joanna: It's great to have you back on the show. It was March 2024 when you were last on, so almost two years now as this goes out. Give us a bit of an update. How has your writing craft and your author business changed in that time? Claire: One of the things I've been focusing on with my own fiction craft is deconstructing the rules of how a story “should” be. That's been a sort of hobby focus of mine. All the story structure books aren't law, right? That's why there are so many of them. They're all suggestions, frameworks. They're all trying to quantify humans' innate ability to understand a story. So I'm trying to remember more that I already know what a story is, deep down. My job as an author is to keep the reader's attention from start to finish and leave them feeling the way I hope they'll feel at the end. That's been my focus on the craft side. On the author business side, I've made some big shifts. I left social media earlier this year, and I've been looking more towards one-on-one coaching and networking. I did a craft-based Kickstarter, and I'd been focusing a lot on “career, career, career”—very business-minded—and now I'm creating more content again, especially around using the Enneagram for writing craft. So there's been a lot of transition since 2024 for me. Joanna: I think it's so important—and obviously we're going to get into your book in more detail—but I do think it's important for people to hear about our pivots and transitions. I haven't spoken to you for a while, but I actually started a master's degree a few months back. I'm doing a full-time master's alongside everything else I do. So I've kind of put down book writing for the moment, and I'm doing essay writing and academic writing instead. It's quite different, as you can imagine. It sounds like what you're doing is different too. One thing I know will have perked up people's ears is: “I left social media.” Tell us a bit more about that. Claire: This was a move that I could feel coming for a while. I didn't like what social media did to my attention. Even when I wasn't on it, there was almost a hangover from having been on it. My attention didn't feel as sharp and focused as it used to be, back before social media became what it is now. So I started asking myself some questions: What is lost if I leave? What is gained if I leave? And what is social media actually doing for me today? Because sometimes we hold on to what it used to do for us, and we keep trying to squeeze more and more of that out of it. But it has changed so much. There are almost no places with sufficient organic reach anymore. It's all pay-to-play, and the cost of pay-to-play keeps going up. I looked at the numbers for my business. My Kickstarter was a great place to analyse that because they track so many traffic sources so clearly. I could see exactly how much I was getting from social media when I advertised and promoted my projects there. Then I asked: can I let that go in order to get my attention back and make my life feel more settled? And I decided: yes, I can. That's worth more to me. Joanna: There are some things money can't buy. Sometimes it really isn't about the money. I like your question: what is lost and what is gained? You also said it's all pay-to-play and there's no organic reach. I do think there is some organic reach for some people who don't pay, but those people are very good at playing the game of whatever the platform wants. So, TikTok for example—you might not have to pay money yet, but you do have to play their game. You have to pay with your time instead of money. I agree with you. I don't think there's anywhere you can literally just post something and know it will reliably reach the people who follow you. Claire: Right. Exactly. TikTok currently, if you really play the game, will sometimes “pick” you, right? But that “pick me” energy is not really my jam. And we can see the trend—this “organic” thing doesn't last. It's organic for now. You can play the game for now, but TikTok would be crazy not to change things so they make more money. So eventually everything becomes pay-to-play. TikTok is fun, but for me it's addictive. I took it off my phone years ago because I would do the infinite scroll. There's so much candy there. Then I'd wake up the next morning and notice my mood just wasn't where I wanted it to be. My energy was low. I really saw a correlation between how much I scrolled and how flat I felt afterwards. So I realised: I'm not the person to pay-to-play or to play the game here. I'm not even convinced that the pay-to-play on certain social media networks is being tracked in a reliable, accountable way anymore. Who is holding them accountable for those numbers? You can sort of see correlation in your sales, but still, I just became more and more sceptical. In the end, it just wasn't for me. My life is so much better on a daily basis without it. That's definitely a decision I have not regretted for a second. Joanna: I'm sorry to keep on about this, but I think this is great because this is going out in January 2026, and there will be lots of people examining their relationship with social media. It's one of those things we all examine every year, pretty much. The other thing I'd add is that you are a very self-aware person. You spend a lot of time thinking about these things and noticing your own behaviour and energy. Stopping and thinking is such an important part of it. But let's tackle the big question: one of the reasons people don't want to come off social media is that they're afraid they don't know how else to market. How are you marketing if you're not using social media? Claire: I didn't leave social media overnight. Over time, I've been adjusting and transitioning, preparing my business and myself mentally and emotionally for probably about a year. I still market to my email list. That has always been important to my business. I've also started a Substack that fits how my brain works. Substack is interesting. Some people might consider it a form of social media—it has that new reading feed—but it feels much more like blogging to me. It's blogging where you can be discovered, which is lovely. I've been doing more long-form content there. You get access to all the emails of your subscribers, which is crucial to me. I don't want to build on something I can't take with me. So I've been doing more long-form content, and that seems to keep my core audience with me. I've got plenty of people subscribed; people continue to come back, work with me, and tell their friends. Word of mouth has always been the way my business markets best, because it's hard to describe the benefits of what I do in a quick, catchy way. It needs context. So I'm leaning even more on that. Then I'm also shifting my fiction book selling more local. Joanna: In person? Claire: Yes. In person and local. Networking and just telling more people that I'm an author. Connecting more deeply with my existing email lists and communities and selling that way. Joanna: I think at the end of the day it does come back to the email list. I think this is one of the benefits of selling direct to people through Shopify or Payhip or whatever, or locally, because you can build your email list. Every person you bring into your own ecosystem, you get their data and you can stay in touch. Whereas all the things we did for years to get people to go to Amazon, we didn't get their emails and details. It's so interesting where we are right now in the author business. Okay, we'll come back to some of these things, but let's get into the book and what you do. Obviously what underpins the book is the Enneagram. Just remind us what the Enneagram is, why you incorporate it into so much of your work, and why you find it resonates so much. Claire: The Enneagram is a framework that describes patterns of thoughts, feelings, and actions that tend to arise from nine different core motivations. Those core motivations are made up of a fear–desire pair. So, for instance, there's the fear of lacking worth and the desire to be worthy. That pair is the Type Three core motivation. If you're a Type Three, sometimes called “The Achiever,” that's your fundamental driver. What we fear and desire above all the other fears and desires determines where our attention goes. And attention is something authors benefit greatly from understanding. We have to keep people's attention, so we want to understand our own attention and how to cultivate it. The things our attention goes to build our understanding of ourselves and the world. Being intentional about that, and paying attention to what your characters pay attention to—and what your readers are paying attention to—is hugely beneficial. It can give you a real leg up. That's why I focus on the Enneagram. I find it very useful at that core level. You can build a lot of other things on top of it with your characters: their backstory, personal histories, little quirks—all of that can be built off the Enneagram foundation. Why I like the Enneagram more than other frameworks like MBTI or the Big Five is that it not only shows us how our fears are confining us—that's really what it's charting—but it also shows us a path towards liberation from those fears. That's where the Enneagram really shines: the growth path, the freedom from the confines of our own personality. It offers that to anyone who wants to study and discover it. A lot of the authors I work with say things like, “I'm just so sick of my own stuff.” And I get it. We all get sick of running into the same patterns over and over again. We can get sick of our personality! The Enneagram is a really good tool for figuring out what's going on and how to try something new, because often we can't even see that there are other options. We have this particular lens we're looking through. That's why I like to play with it, and why I find it so useful. Joanna: That's really interesting. It sounds like you have a lot of mature authors—and when I say “mature,” I mean authors with a lot of books under their belt, not necessarily age. There are different problems at different stages of the author career, and the problem you just described—“I'm getting sick of my stuff”—sounds like a mature author issue. What are some of the other issues you see in the community that are quite common amongst indie authors? Claire: One that comes up a lot, especially early on, is: “Am I doing this right?” That's a big question. People say, “I don't know if I'm doing this right. I'm going to mess it up. This person told me this was the way to do things, but I don't think I can do it this way. Am I doomed?” That's the fear. A lot of what I help people with is seeing that there isn't a single “right” way to do this. There's a way that's going to feel more aligned to you, and there are millions of ways to approach an author career because we're all constructing it as we go. You were there in the early days. We were all just making this up as we went along. Joanna: Exactly. There was a time when ebooks were PDFs, there wasn't even a Kindle, and there was no iPhone. We were literally just making it up. Claire: Right. Exactly. That spirit of “we're all making it up” is important. Some of us have come up with frameworks that work for us, and then we tell other people about them—“Here's a process; try this process”—but that doesn't mean it's the process. Understanding what motivates you—those core motivations—helps you see where you're going to bump into advice that's not right for you, and how to start making decisions that fit your attention, your life, your desires in this author role. Early on we do a lot of that work. Then there are the authors who started a while ago and have a bunch of books. They hit a point where they say, “I've changed so much since I started writing. I need to figure out how to adjust my career.” Joanna: Tell us more about that, because I think that's you and me. How do we deal with that? Claire: Well, crying helps. Joanna: That is true! There's always a bit of crying involved in reinvention. From my perspective, my brand has always been built around me. People are still here—I know some people listening who have been with the podcast since I started it in 2009—and I've always been me. Even though I've done loads of different things and changed along the way, at heart I'm still me. I'm really glad I built a personal brand around who I am, rather than around one genre or a single topic. How about you? How do you see it? Claire: I'm the same. I just can't stick with something that doesn't feel right for me anymore. I'll start to rebel against it. There's also that “good girl” part of me that wants to do things the way they're supposed to be done and keep everybody happy. I have to keep an eye on her, because she'll default to “this is the way it should be done,” and then I end up constricted. As we advance through our careers, positioning around what motivates us and what we love, and allowing ourselves to understand that it's okay to change—even though it's painful—is crucial. It's actually destructive not to change over time. We end up forfeiting so many things that make life worth living if we don't allow ourselves to grow and change. We end up in this tiny box. People sometimes say the Enneagram is very restrictive. “It's only nine types, you're putting me in a box.” It's like: no. These are the boxes we've put ourselves in. Then we use the Enneagram to figure out how to get out of the box. As we start to see the box we've put ourselves in with our personality—“that's me, that's not me”—we realise how much movement we actually have, how many options we have, while still being ourselves. Joanna: So many options. This kind of brings us into your book, because part of the personal brand thing is being real and having different facets. Your book is Write Iconic Characters, and presumably these are characters that people want to read more about. It uses the Enneagram to construct these better characters. So first up— What's your definition of an iconic character, as opposed to any old character? And how can we use the Enneagram to construct one? Claire: An iconic character, in my imagination, is one that really sticks with us after we've finished the story. They become a reference point. We'll say, “This person is kind of like that character,” or “This situation feels like that character would handle it this way.” It could be our friends, our enemies, someone we meet on the bus—whoever it is might remind us of this character. So they really get lodged in our psyche. An iconic character feels true to some fundamental part of the human condition, even if they're not strictly human. So, all the alien romance people listening, don't worry—you're still in! These characters take on a life of their own. With an iconic character, we may hear them talking to us after the book is done, because we've tapped into that essential part of them. They can become almost archetypal—something we go back to over and over again in our minds, both as writers and as readers. Joanna: How can we use the Enneagram to construct an iconic character? I'm asking this as a discovery writer who struggles to construct anything beforehand. It's more that I write stuff and then something emerges. But I have definitely not had a hit series with an iconic character, so I'm willing to give your approach a try. Claire: It works with whatever your process is. If you're a discovery writer, start with that spark of a character in your head. If there's a character who's just a glimmer—maybe you know a few things about them—just keep writing. At some point you'll probably recognise, “Okay, it's time to go deeper in understanding this character and create a cohesive thread to pull all of this together.” That's where the Enneagram becomes useful. You can put on your armchair psychologist hat and ask: which of the nine core fears seems like it might be driving the parts of their personality that are emerging? Thankfully, we intuitively recognise the nine types. When we start gathering bits for a new character, we tend to pull from essentially the same constellation of personality, even if we don't realise it. For instance, you might say, “This character is bold and adventurous,” and that's all you know. You're probably not going to also add, “and they're incredibly shy,” because “bold and adventurous” plus “incredibly shy” doesn't really fit our intuitive understanding of people. We know that instinctively. So, you've got “bold and adventurous.” You write that to a certain point, and then you get to a place where you think, “I don't really know them deeply.” That's when you can go back to the nine core fears and start ruling some out quite quickly. In the book, I have descriptions for each of them. You can read the character descriptions, read about the motivations, and start to say, “It's definitely not these five types. I can rule those out.” If they're bold and adventurous, maybe the core fear is being trapped in deprivation and pain, or being harmed and controlled. Those correspond to Type Seven (“The Enthusiast”) and Type Eight (“The Challenger”), respectively. So you might say, “Okay, maybe they're a Seven or an Eight.” From there, if you can pin down a type, you can read more about it and get ideas. You can understand the next big decision point. If they're a Type Seven, what's going to motivate them? They'll do whatever keeps them from being trapped in pain and deprivation, and they'll be seeking satisfaction or new experiences in some way, because that's the core desire that goes with that fear. So now, you're asking: “How do I get them to get on the spaceship and leave Earth?” Well, you could offer them some adventure, because they're bold and adventurous. I have a character who's a Seven, and she gets on a spaceship and takes off because her boyfriend just proposed—and the idea of being trapped in marriage feels like: “Nope. Whatever is on this spaceship, I'm out of here.” You can play with that once you identify a type. You can go as deep with that type as you want, or you can just work with the core fear and the basic desire. There's no “better or worse”—it's whatever you feel comfortable with and whatever you need for the story. Joanna: In the book, you go into all the Enneagram types in detail, but you also have a specific example: Wednesday Addams. She's one of my favourites. People listening have either seen the current series or they have something in mind from the old-school Addams Family. Can you talk about [Wednesday Addams] as an example? Claire: Doing those deep dives was some of the most fun research for this book. I told my husband, John, “Don't bother me. I need to sit and binge-watch Wednesday again—with my notebook this time.” Online, people were guessing: “Oh, she's maybe this type, maybe that type.” As soon as I started watching properly with the Enneagram in mind, I thought: “Oh, this is a Type Eight, this is the Challenger.” One of the first things we hear from her is that she considers emotions to be weakness. Immediately, you can cross out a bunch of types from that. When we're looking at weak/strong language—that lens of “strength” versus “weakness”—we tend to look towards Eights, because they often sort the world in those terms. They're concerned about being harmed or controlled, so they feel they need to be strong and powerful. That gave me a strong hint in that direction. If we look at the inciting incident—which is a great place to identify what really triggers a character, because it has to be powerful enough to launch the story—Wednesday finds her little brother Pugsley stuffed in a locker. She says, “Who did this?” because she believes she's the only one who gets to bully him. That's a very stereotypical Type Eight thing. The unhealthy Eight can dip into being a bit of a bully because they're focused on power and power dynamics. But the Eight also says, “These are my people. I protect them. If you're one of my people, you're under my protection.” So there's that protection/control paradox. Then she goes and—spoiler—throws a bag of piranhas into the pool to attack the boys who hurt him. That's like: okay, this is probably an Eight. Then she has control wrested from her when she's sent to the new school. That's a big trigger for an Eight: to not have autonomy, to not have control. She acts out pretty much immediately, tries to push people away, and establishes dominance. One of the first things she does is challenge the popular girl to a fencing match. That's very Eight behaviour: “I'm going to go in, figure out where I sit in this power structure, and try to get into a position of power straight away.” That's how the story starts, and in the book I go into a lot more analysis. At one point she's attacked by this mysterious thing and is narrowly saved from a monster. Her reaction afterwards is: “I would have rather saved myself.” That's another strong Eight moment. The Eight does not like to be saved by anyone else. It's: “No, I wanted to be strong enough to do that.” Her story arc is also very Eight-flavoured: she starts off walled-off, “I can do it myself,” which can sometimes look like the self-sufficiency of the Five, but for her it's about always being in a power position and in control of herself. She has to learn to rely more on other people if she wants to protect the people she cares about. Protecting the innocent and protecting “her people” is a big priority for the Eight. Joanna: Let's say we've identified our main character and protagonist. One of the important things in any book, especially in a series, is conflict—both internal and external. Can we use the Enneagram to work out what would be the best other character, or characters, to give us more conflict? Claire: The character dynamics are complex, and all types are going to have both commonalities and conflict between them. That works really well for fiction. But depending on how much conflict you need, there are certain type pairings that are especially good for it. If you have a protagonist who's an Eight, they're going to generate conflict everywhere because it doesn't really bother them. They're okay wading into conflict. If you ask an Eight, “Do you like conflict?” they'll often say, “Well, sometimes it's not great,” but to everyone else it looks like they come in like a wrecking ball. The Eight tends to go for what they want. They don't see the point in waiting. They think, “I want it, I'm going to go and get it.” That makes them feel strong and powerful. So it's easy to create external and internal conflict with an Eight and other types. But the nature of the conflict is going to be different depending on who you pair them with. Let's say you have this Eight and you pair them with a Type One, “The Reformer,” whose core fear is being bad or corrupt, and who wants to be good and have integrity. The Reformer wants morality. They can get a little preachy; they can become a bit of a zealot when they're more unhealthy. A One and an Eight will have a very particular kind of conflict because the One says, “Let's do what's right,” and the Eight says, “Let's do what gets me what I want and puts me in the power position.” They may absolutely get along if they're taking on injustice. Ones and Eights will team up if they both see the same thing as unjust. They'll both take it on together. But then they may reach a point in the story where the choice is between doing the thing that is “right”—maybe self-sacrificing or moral—versus doing the thing that will exact retribution or secure a power-up. That's where the conflict between a One and an Eight shows up. You can grab any two types and they'll have unique conflict. I'm actually working on a project on Kickstarter that's all about character dynamics and relationships—Write Iconic Relationships is the next project—and I go deeper into this there. Joanna: I was wondering about that, because I did a day-thing recently with colour palettes and interior design—which is not usually my thing—so I was really challenging myself. We did this colour wheel, and they were talking about how the opposite colour on the wheel is the one that goes with it in an interesting way. I thought— Maybe there's something in the Enneagram where it's like a wheel, and the type opposite is the one that clashes or fits in a certain way. Is that a thing? Claire: There is a lot of that kind of contrast. The Enneagram is usually depicted in a circle, one through nine, and there are strong contrasts between types that are right next to each other, as well as interesting lines that connect them. For example, we've been talking about the Eight, and right next to Eight is Nine, “The Peacemaker.” Eights and Nines can look like opposites in certain ways. The Nine is conflict-avoidant, and the Eight tends to think you get what you want by pushing into conflict if necessary. Then you've got Four, “The Individualist,” which is very emotional, artistic, heart-centred, and Five, “The Investigator,” which you're familiar with—very head-centred and analytical, thinking-based. The Four and the Five can clash a bit: the head and the heart. So, yes, there are interesting contrasts right next to each other on the wheel. Each type also has its own conflict style. We're going into the weeds a bit here, but it's fascinating to play with. There's one conflict style—the avoidant conflict style, sometimes called the “positive outlook” group—and it's actually hard to get those types into an enemies-to-lovers romance because they don't really want to be enemies. That's Types Two, Seven, and Nine. So depending on the trope you're writing, some type pairings are more frictional than others. There are all these different dynamics you can explore, and I can't wait to dig into them more for everyone in the relationships book. Joanna: The Enneagram is just one of many tools people can use to figure out themselves as well as their characters. Maybe that's something people want to look at this year. You've got this book, you've got other resources that go into it, and there's also a lot of information out there if people want to explore it more deeply. Let's pull back out to the bigger picture, because as this goes out in January 2026, I think there is a real fear of change in the community right now. Is that something you've seen? What are your thoughts for authors on how they can navigate the year ahead? Claire: Yes, there has been a lot of fear. The rate of change of things online has felt very rapid. The rate of change in the broader world—politically, socially—has also felt scary to a lot of people. It can be really helpful to look at your own personal life and anchor yourself in what hasn't changed and what feels universal. From there you can start to say, “Okay, I can do this. I'm safe enough to be creative. I can find creative ways to work within this new environment.” You can choose to engage with AI. You can choose to opt out. It's totally your choice, and there is no inherent virtue in either one. I think that's important to say. Sometimes people who are anti-AI—not just uninterested but actively antagonistic—go after people who like it. And sometimes people who like AI can be antagonistic towards people who don't want to use it. But actually, you get to choose what you're comfortable with. One of the things I see emerging for authors in 2026, regardless of what tools you're using or how you feel about them, is this question of trustworthiness. I think there's a big need for that. With the increased number of images and videos that are AI-generated—which a lot of people who've been on the internet for a while can still recognise as AI and say, “Yeah, that's AI”—but that may not be obvious for long. Right now some of us can tell, but a lot of people can't, and that's only going to get murkier. There's a rising mistrust of our own senses online lately. We're starting to wonder, “Can I believe what I'm seeing and hearing?” And I think that sense of mistrust will increase. As an author in that environment, it's really worth focusing on: how do I build trust with my readers? That doesn't mean you never use AI. It might simply mean you disclose, to whatever extent feels right for you, how you use it. There are things like authenticity, honesty, vulnerability, humility, integrity, transparency, reliability—all of those are ingredients in this recipe of trustworthiness that we need to look at for ourselves. If there's one piece of hard inner work authors can do for 2026, I think it's asking: “Where have I not been trustworthy to my readers?” Then taking that hard, sometimes painful look at what comes up, and asking how you can adjust. What do you need to change? What new practices do you need to create that will increase trustworthiness? I really think that's the thing that's starting to erode online. If you can work on it now, you can hold onto your readers through whatever comes next. Joanna: What's one concrete thing people could do in that direction [to increase trustworthiness]? Claire: I would say disclosing if you use AI is a really good start—or at least disclosing how you use it specifically. I know that can lead to drama when you do it because people have strong opinions, but trustworthiness comes at the cost of courage and honesty. Transparency is another ingredient we could all use more of. If transparency around AI is a hard “absolutely not” for you—if you're thinking, “Nope, Claire, you can get lost with that”—then authenticity is another route. Let your messy self be visible, because people still want some human in the mix. Being authentically messy and vulnerable with your audience helps. If you can't be reliable and put the book out on time, at least share what's going on in your life. Staying connected in that way builds trust. Readers will think, “Okay, I see why you didn't hit that deadline.” But if you're always promising books—“It's going to be out on this day,” and then, “Oh, I had to push it back,” and that happens again and again—that does erode the trustworthiness of your brand. So, looking at those things and asking, “How am I cultivating trust, and how am I breaking it?” is hard work. There are definitely ways I look at my own business and think, “That's not a very trustworthy thing I'm doing.” Then I need to sit down, get real with myself, and see how I can improve that. Joanna: Always improving is good. Coming back to the personal brand piece, and to being vulnerable and putting ourselves out there: you and I have both got used to that over years of doing it and practising. There are people listening who have never put their photo online, or their voice online, or done a video. They might not use their photo on the back of their book or on their website. They might use an avatar. They might use a pen name. They might be afraid of having anything about themselves online. That's where I think there is a concern, because as much as I love a lot of the AI stuff, I don't love the idea of everything being hidden behind anonymous pen names and faceless brands. As you said, being vulnerable in some way and being recognisably human really matters. I'd say: double down on being human. I think that's really important. Do you have any words of courage for people who feel, “I just can't. I don't want to put myself out there”? Claire: There are definitely legitimate reasons some people wouldn't want to be visible. There are safety reasons, cultural reasons, family reasons—all sorts of factors. There are also a lot of authors who simply haven't practised the muscle of vulnerability. You build that muscle a little bit at a time. It does open you up to criticism, and some people are just not at a phase of life where they can cope with that. That's okay. If fear is the main reason—if you're hiding because you're scared of being judged—I do encourage you to step out, gently. This may be my personal soapbox, but I don't think life is meant to be spent hiding. Things may happen. Not everyone will like you. That's part of being alive. When you invite in hiding, it doesn't just stay in one corner. That constricted feeling tends to spread into other areas of your life. A lot of the time, people I work with don't want to disclose their pen names because they're worried their parents won't approve, and then we have to unpack that. You don't have to do what your parents want you to do. You're an adult now, right? If the issue is, “They'll cut me out of the will,” we can talk about that too. That's a deeper, more practical conversation. But if it's just that they won't approve, you have more freedom than you think. You also don't have to plaster your picture everywhere. Even if you're not comfortable showing your face, you can still communicate who you are and what matters to you in other ways—through your stories, through your email list, through how you talk to readers. Let your authentic self be expressed in some way. It's scary, but the reward is freedom. Joanna: Absolutely. Lots to explore in 2026. Tell people where they can find you and your books and everything you do online. Claire: LiberatedWriter.com is where all of my stuff lives, except my fiction, which I don't think people here are necessarily as interested in. If you do want to find my fiction, FFS Media is where that lives. Then I'm on Substack as well. I write long pieces there. If you want to subscribe, it's The Liberated Writer on Substack. Joanna: Brilliant. Well, thanks so much for your time, Claire. That was great. Claire: Thanks so much for having me.The post Leaving Social Media, Writing Iconic Characters, and Building Trust With Claire Taylor first appeared on The Creative Penn.
In the final hour, Leila Rahimi, Marshall Harris and Mark Grote were joined by Dan Wiederer of The Athletic to break down the Bears' thrilling 31-27 win against the rival Packers on Saturday in the wild-card round. Later, Rahimi, Harris and Grote fired up the Meatball Machine to hear reaction from Score listeners during and after the Bears' comeback victory against the Packers.
Leila Rahimi, Marshall Harris and Mark Grote were joined by Dan Wiederer of The Athletic to break down the Bears' thrilling 31-27 win against the rival Packers on Saturday in the wild-card round.
Iconic tap dancer Jason Samuels Smith joins us for a passion-filled, controversial conversation exploring hidden histories, identity, and the re-examination of Black cultural narratives. Follow Jason here: https://www.jsamsmith.com/ Support Tap Love Tour on Patreon: patreon.com/travisknights
One of Madison's coolest buildings celebrates a major milestone this year. The Unitarian Meeting House in Shorewood Hills is a noted architectural landmark designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Its unique and distinctive design has earned it national acclaim. This year, the building is celebrating its 75th birthday with an array of events. To get the scoop on this space, host Bianca Martin talks to March Schweitzer, president of the Friends of the Meeting House.
In this episode of Song To Be, Fitzy breaks down the surprising backstories behind two unforgettable tracks. Rihanna’s SOS took a familiar sample and turned it into a pop takeover moment, while Goo Goo Dolls’ Iris was written in a rush for a movie and went on to become one of the most emotional love songs of its time!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
American actor Jeremy Piven joined Mick In The Morning in the midst of his Australian comedy tour. The Hollywood star reveals why Australia is his top place to perform, the art of improvising, working with Robert De Niro, learning to perfect Entourage character Ari Gold and the world of entertainment. Mick In The Morning with Roo, Titus and Rosie will return LIVE January 19th from 6am on Melbourne's Triple M.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Takin’ A Walk-music history on foot with Tears for Fears: The Story Behind “Shout,” “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” and Four Decades of Iconic Synth-Pop Join Buzz Knight on the music history podcast for an inspiring music story with Tears for Fears, the legendary British duo behind some of the most iconic music of the 1980s. Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith discuss the creation of their groundbreaking albums “The Hurting” and “Songs from the Big Chair,” revealing the emotional depth and therapeutic inspiration behind their biggest hits including “Shout,” “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” “Head Over Heels,” and “Mad World.” In this intimate music history podcast, discover how Tears for Fears pioneered a unique blend of new wave, synth-pop, and art rock that defined 1980s music while addressing themes of mental health, childhood trauma, and primal scream therapy, in their beginning resulting in viral music success. The British musicians share behind-the-scenes stories from their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame-worthy career, their creative reunion, and their acclaimed 2022 album “The Tipping Point.” Explore the indie music journey and songwriting process behind chart-topping singles that dominated MTV, alternative rock radio, and pop music charts worldwide. Learn about their influences ranging from progressive rock to electronic music, their production techniques with legendary producers, and how their music has influenced generations of artists in indie rock, dream pop, and contemporary alternative music. This music history podcast offers rare insights into the band’s creative partnership, their temporary split and emotional reunion, touring stories from performing at major music festivals, and their perspective on the evolution of the British music scene. Perfect for fans of 80s music, new wave nostalgia, synth-pop history, and anyone interested in the intersection of pop music and psychological exploration. Tune in for more interviews with musicians and follow the music journey on The Takin A Walk Podcast with BuzzKnight-Music History on Foot. Part of IHeart Podcasts. Like this show? You may also like "A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs by Andrew Hickey. If you like the podcast share with your friends and leave a review here. Review Support the show: https://takinawalk.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Support the show: https://takinawalk.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Top 250 answers are on the board..."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1239: Ford earns top honors as America's most iconic company, Stellantis drops every PHEV from its 2026 lineup, and McKinsey's CEO reminds us there are still a few things humans do better than AI. A day of big shifts, bold moves, and even bolder expectations.Show Notes with links: https://www.foxbusiness.com/retail/ford-named-no-1-most-iconic-american-company-nationwide-survey-making-peoples-lives-betterFord just topped Time and Statista's list of the 250 most iconic American companies, beating household giants like Apple, Coca-Cola and Amazon. The ranking highlights not just commercial success, but each company's impact on U.S. culture and society.Time's nationwide survey put Ford at No. 1 for its cultural influence and long-standing role in shaping American life.Bill Ford pointed back to the company's founding mission, emphasizing innovation tied to improving people's lives—not just tech for tech's sake.Ford underscored its status as the largest hourly auto employer in the U.S., reinforcing its commitment to American workers.Time credited Ford's assembly-line legacy for transforming modern manufacturing and reshaping cities and suburbs.“Innovation is not just about building batteries or technology for its own sake; it is about making people's lives better,” said Bill Ford.https://www.jalopnik.com/2071397/stellantis-canceling-all-plug-in-hybrids-2026-model-year/Stellantis is pulling the plug—literally—on every PHEV in its North American lineup starting with the 2026 model year. Once top sellers like the Wrangler 4xe, Grand Cherokee 4xe, and Chrysler Pacifica PHEV are being discontinued as the company shifts its electrification strategy.Stellantis says every brandwide PHEV program in North America will be phased out beginning in 2026.The automaker plans to pivot toward traditional hybrids and range-extended EVs, where it says customer demand is stronger.Models like the Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet R/T will also lose their plug-in variants.Stellantis says it will “focus on more competitive electrified solutions, including hybrid and range-extended vehicles where they best meet customer needs.”https://www.businessinsider.com/mckinsey-boss-shares-human-skills-ai-models-cant-do-2026-1As AI reshapes knowledge work, McKinsey's top executive says there are three capabilities machines still can't touch—and they're exactly what young professionals should double down on. The comments came as the firm shared how AI has already saved millions of employee work hours.McKinsey's 25,000 AI agents handled 1.5 million hours of search and synthesis last year and produced 2.5 million charts in six months.With routine tasks offloaded, consultants are now tackling higher-order, more complex problem-solving.CEO Bob Sternfels says graduates should focus on the three skills AI cannot replicate: aspiration, judgment, and true creativity.He also says AI will shift hiring away from pedigree and toward demonstrated work—like engineers' GitHub portfolios.“What can the models not do? Aspire… That's a uniquely human capability,” Sternfels said.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
On Rewind, Tony Zooms with Emmy‑nominated composer Michael A. Levine, a creator whose musical fingerprints are everywhere—from the instantly recognizable Kit Kat Bar jingle to the haunting, otherworldly soundscape of Freeform's hit series Siren. In this conversation, Levine pulls back the curtain on his creative process, revealing how he blends experimentation, emotional intuition, and a deep respect for sonic storytelling. One of the most fascinating insights: how he wove real whale vocalizations into the DNA of the Siren main theme, transforming natural marine communication into a musical language that feels both ancient and eerily new. This episode also features musical cues throughout, giving listeners a rare chance to hear Levine's ideas in context as he discusses them. Subscribe To Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today
In this episode of Song To Be, Fitzy unpacks two songs that took unexpected paths to becoming iconic. Raye’s Where Is My Husband!? started as a raw, theatrical outburst before turning into one of her most talked about moments (not to mention one of the most ICONIC on social media), while Franz Ferdinand’s Take Me Out famously switches gears mid song and nearly confused everyone involved!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rock and roll is not rock and roll without a beat. John Lingan's new book, BACKBEATS: A History of Rock and Roll in 15 Drummers (Scribner; Publication date: November 11, 2025) is an electrifying journey through the history of rock and roll, told through the lives of fifteen iconic drummers and their percussion rivals-from John Bonham and Charlie Watts to Ringo Starr and Questlove.Rock and roll thrives on rhythm, but the drummers who drive that pulse often stay in the shadows. In BACKBEATS, acclaimed music historian John Lingan brings these unsung heroes into the spotlight, delivering a fascinating journey through six decades of rock history.Lingan's deep research and vivid storytelling explores the lives of fifteen pathbreaking drummers and their fellow timekeepers-men and women who together laid down the beat of an era. From Bernard Purdie's legendary work with Aretha Franklin to Dave Grohl's funk- and punk-indebted swing for Nirvana, these drummers redefined what was possible in pop music. Iconic figures like Ringo Starr, whose inventive style transformed the Beatles, and Charlie Watts, the steady backbone of the Rolling Stones, take center stage. But Lingan doesn't stop there-he also shines a light on Hal Blaine, the backbone of the LA studio scene's "Wrecking Crew," groundbreaking, underappreciated talents like Maureen Tucker of The Velvet Underground, whose minimalist beats rewrote the rulebook, and Sam Lay, a pivotal figure in rock's evolution from the blues.Packed with insider stories and exclusive interviews-from Robert Plant's reflections on Led Zeppelin's legendary sessions to revered recording engineer Steve Albini's behind-the-scenes accounts-BACKBEATS offers an eye-opening glimpse into some of rock's most unforgettable moments, including the seismic shift of Bob Dylan going electric at Newport, James Brown's explosive creation of funk in the late sixties, and Slayer's role in the birth of LA thrash metal in the early eighties.More than just a tribute to an unrecognized group of virtuosos, this book is a love letter to the art of drumming itself. BACKBEATS shows how these remarkable artists not only kept the beat but drove rock and roll forward. It's a must-read for any music lover, offering a fresh and thrilling perspective on a story we only thought we knew.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-unplugged-totally-uncut--994165/support.
Have you built a successful business but feel like it's trapped you in a box? If you're a creative entrepreneur feeling bored, resentful, or ready for something more, this episode is your permission slip to evolve.I'm pulling back the curtain on my biggest business pivot yet: from the Art of Reinvention to Iconic. This isn't just about rebranding. It's about refusing to put creatives in boxes and building founder-led brands that evolve with you, not against you.In this episode, I'm sharing why the "pick one thing forever" advice is dangerous for multi-passionate entrepreneurs, how I'm launching Desire AI as a standalone app this month, and the four pillars (Vision, Voice, Visibility, Vibration) that create truly iconic brands.In this episode, you'll learn:[02:03] Why I've never been more excited about a new year since starting Flourish & Thrive Academy[05:00] The evolution of Desire AI and why we're launching it as a standalone app this month[09:21] Why I refuse to put creatives in a box just because it's more predictable on a spreadsheet[18:29] How multi-passionate creatives actually work and why "pick one thing" advice is killing your business[22:26] The truth about consistency vs expansion (and why you don't have to choose)[29:30] The four pillars that create an iconic founder-led brand (Vision, Voice, Visibility, Vibration)[38:21] Shirley's breakthrough story: From stuck with a dream to landing a retail store in South Africa's most prestigious safari lodge in 9 monthsHere are the resources mentioned in the show:Join The Breakthrough 21-Day ActivationLearn about Desire AIJoin the January Jumpstart (for Jewelry Designers)Are you enjoying the podcast? We'd be so grateful if you gave us a rating and review! Your 5 star ratings help us reach more businesses like yours and allows us to continue to deliver valuable content every single week. Click here to review the show on Apple podcast or your favorite platformSelect “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”Share your favorite insights and inspirationsIf you haven't done so yet, make sure that you subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and on Apple Podcast for special bonus content you won't get elsewhere.xo, Tracy MatthewsFollow on Social:Follow @Flourish_Thrive on InstagramFollow @iamtracymatthews InstagramFollow Flourish & Thrive Facebook
The current episode presents a nuanced analysis of the recent dynamics within the furniture retail sector, revealing a modest yet discernible increase in sales, with a year-over-year growth of approximately 4% for the initial ten months of 2025. However, this growth remains tepid when juxtaposed against the broader retail landscape, where furniture sales trail behind various other categories, reflecting the inherent challenges of a market characterized by high-ticket items subject to less frequent consumer replacement. Furthermore, we delve into the poignant narrative of several long-standing independent furniture retailers, such as McKinstry's Home Furnishings and C.J. Meiselwitz Furniture, who have succumbed to the pressures of market conditions and succession dilemmas, marking the closure of institutions that have served their communities for generations. Amidst these closures, we also scrutinize the implications of current trade policies and tariffs, which continue to exert pressure on sourcing decisions and pricing strategies within the industry. In conclusion, we emphasize the imperative for retailers to adeptly navigate technological advancements and data governance as they strive to remain competitive in an evolving marketplace. The discourse presented in this segment meticulously delineates the current state of the furniture retail sector in the United States, as of January 2026. It commences with an analysis of sales figures, revealing that furniture store sales experienced a modest increment of approximately 4% over the first ten months of 2025, tallying around $112 billion. However, this growth is juxtaposed against a backdrop of more vigorous expansions in other retail categories, such as general merchandise and e-commerce, where sales surged by 3.5%. Such statistics underscore the prevailing reality that furniture sales, characterized by their higher price points and infrequent purchasing cycles, are inherently slower compared to everyday consumer goods. The discussion further unfolds to reveal the somber narrative of long-established independent retailers, many of which have announced impending closures, often linked to the retirement of their owners. Iconic establishments, such as McKinstry's Home Furnishings in Wisconsin, which had served the community for nearly 170 years, exemplify this trend, highlighting the challenges faced by legacy businesses in adapting to contemporary market conditions and succession dilemmas. The closure of these venerable institutions serves as a poignant reminder of the intersection between personal choices regarding retirement and the broader economic landscape, posing critical questions about the future of independent retailing in an increasingly competitive environment.Takeaways:The furniture retail sector in the United States has demonstrated a modest growth of approximately four percent over the initial ten months of 2025, signifying a cautious yet positive trend in consumer spending on home furnishings.Despite the reported growth, furniture store sales are lagging behind other retail categories, exacerbating the challenges faced by independent retailers in a competitive market environment.The closure of long-standing independent furniture stores, such as McKinstry's Home Furnishings and C.J. Meiselwitz Furniture, illustrates the existential challenges confronting traditional retailers in adapting to contemporary market dynamics.Ongoing discussions regarding trade policies, particularly concerning import tariffs on furniture components, underscore the complexities of the supply chain and the pressures exerted on pricing strategies within the...
Our guest today is Kent Black, owner of Paso Productions and a production manager with over 40 years in live entertainment. Kent started as a stagehand in the early '80s, spent years touring with major artists, and went on to produce everything from global corporate events and award shows to major concerts and festivals. He's worked with artists like Neil Diamond, Barbra Streisand, and Paul McCartney, collaborated with brands including Apple, Google, and Disney, and remains deeply involved in the concert world through Live Nation. He also serves on the Parnelli Awards Board, where he ran the show for its first 15 years.This episode is brought to you by ACME Lighting and RZI Lighting
In today's episode, we explore what it means to create work that lasts not just for the next trend cycle, but for generations. We dive deep into the interplay of intuition, identity, and intentionality that underpins creative longevity, and how these often-invisible forces guide great design, resilient businesses, and enduring cultural impact.We sit down with two very different thinkers whose experiences mirror this theme. First, we hear from Robert Brunner, renowned industrial designer and founder of Ammunition Design Group, whose work includes designing Beats by Dre headphones and pioneering shifts at Apple. He shares stories of working with some of the world's most creative—and opinionated—collaborators, and how intuition fused with empathy leads to breakthrough products.Next, we talk with Neri Karra Sillaman, a scholar and author of Pioneers: Eight Principles of Business Longevity from Immigrant Entrepreneurs. Her research unpacks why immigrant-founded companies tend to outlast their peers—not simply due to external market factors, but because of internal clarity, community orientation, and the reframing of adversity.We broaden the lens from iconic objects to enduring enterprises, discovering through-lines that shape both remarkable products and resilient organizations.Five Key Learnings from the Episode:Intuition is Earned, Not Mystical: We learn that intuition isn't some innate gift—it's the result of deep attention, lived experience, and empathy, brought to bear at critical moments of creation.Identity Drives Longevity: Durable work starts internally, rooted in a clear understanding of who we are and what matters to us. This self-knowledge—tempered by adversity or migration—shapes everything from product design to business models.Collaboration Requires Respect and Empathy: Great breakthroughs often emerge from teams with diverse perspectives. Navigating strong personalities and creative differences means honoring others' ideas and creating environments where bold work can thrive.Community and Shared Value Matter: We see how leaders build enterprises to last by weaving strong communities and ecosystems, deliberately involving employees and stakeholders, and focusing on shared value over short-term profit.Resilience is Built Through Reframing Rejection: Successful creators and entrepreneurs don't see setbacks as verdicts on their worth—instead, rejection is information and an invitation to try again, often with even more clarity and resolve.Get full interviews and bonus content for free! Just join the list at DailyCreativePlus.com.Mentioned in this episode:The Brave Habit is available nowMy new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com.Apply for Creative Leader Roundtable Leading creative people is rewarding, but it can also feel isolating. That's why I've started Creative...
On this episode of Tales From Hollywoodland, the crew salutes the legendary career of Robert Mitchum, one of classic Hollywood's most effortlessly cool and enduring stars — a true Hollywood man's man. From his unforgettable turns in film noir classics like Out of the Past and The Night of the Hunter to his rugged performances […] The post Robert Mitchum: Hollywood's Ultimate Man's Man | Film Noir, Westerns & Iconic Roles | Tales From Hollywoodland appeared first on The ESO Network.
On this episode of Tales From Hollywoodland, the crew salutes the legendary career of Robert Mitchum, one of classic Hollywood's most effortlessly cool and enduring stars — a true Hollywood man's man. From his unforgettable turns in film noir classics like Out of the Past and The Night of the Hunter to his rugged performances in Westerns, war films, and gritty dramas, Robert Mitchum carved out a career defined by toughness, charm, and a laid-back rebel attitude that Hollywood couldn't resist. We explore how Mitchum's screen persona, off-screen reputation, and unmistakable presence helped redefine masculinity in classic cinema. Join us as we revisit his most iconic roles, discuss his lasting influence on generations of actors, and celebrate why Robert Mitchum remains one of the most fascinating and timeless figures in Hollywood history. We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at talesfromhollywoodland@gmail.com, and why not subscribe and rate the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, PlayerFM, Pandora, Amazon Music, Audible, and wherever fine podcasts are found. #RobertMitchum #ClassicHollywood #FilmNoir #HollywoodLegends #ClassicFilms #MovieHistory #FilmPodcast #GoldenAgeOfHollywood #MensMan #TalesFromHollywoodland
DAVID BOWIE AS THE GOBLIN KING!!! Labyrinth Full Movie Reaction Watch Along: / thereelrejects Gift Someone (Or Yourself) An RR Tee! https://shorturl.at/hekk2 Coy & Roxy embark on a CLASSIC '80s Fantasy as they give their Labyrinth Full Movie Reaction, Breakdown, Analysis, Commentary & Spoiler Review! Roxy Striar & Coy Jandreau react to Labyrinth (1986), the beloved fantasy cult classic directed by Jim Henson and produced by George Lucas, a film that blends fairy-tale adventure, surreal imagination, and iconic musical moments into one of the most enduring fantasy experiences of the 1980s. The story follows Sarah Williams (Jennifer Connelly – The Rocketeer, Requiem for a Dream), a headstrong teenager who accidentally wishes her baby brother away and must journey through a magical, ever-shifting labyrinth to rescue him before time runs out. Ruling over this strange world is Jareth the Goblin King, played by David Bowie (The Man Who Fell to Earth, The Prestige), whose charismatic menace, elaborate costumes, and musical numbers have made him one of fantasy cinema's most unforgettable villains. As Sarah navigates riddles, traps, and bizarre creatures, she encounters loyal allies like Hoggle (Brian Henson – Return to Oz), Ludo (Ron Mueck – creature performance legend), and the chivalrous fox knight Sir Didymus (David Shaughnessy – Star Trek: Voyager). Iconic moments include Bowie's electrifying opening number “Magic Dance,” the Escher-inspired staircase illusion, the Fireys' anarchic dance sequence, the haunting “As the World Falls Down” ballroom fantasy, and Sarah's final declaration of independence that redefines the film's fairy-tale moral. With Jim Henson's groundbreaking puppetry, Brian Froud's creature designs, and a timeless coming-of-age message, Labyrinth remains a cherished fantasy touchstone that continues to captivate new generations. Follow Coy Jandreau: Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coyjandreau?l... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coyjandreau/?hl=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/CoyJandreau YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwYH2szDTuU9ImFZ9gBRH8w Follow Roxy Striar YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheWhirlGirls Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxystriar/?hl=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/roxystriar Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
01/02/26 Where Were You When the Ball Dropped? Radio Night Live: Fun Friday's Kevin McCullough and Cristyne Nicholas are joined by Tom Harris, the mastermind behind New York City's iconic Times Square; and Delfin Ortiz, General Manager, Senior Vice President of Operations at Jamestown. He leads operations of One Times Square, a $500 million project transforming the property into an experiential hub at the intersection of art, technology, and entertainment. Radio Night Live: Fun Friday dives into the history of the famous New Year's Eve ball drop, from its origins in 1907 to the current preparations for the 2026 celebration. Tom "T-Square" Harris shares behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the ball, the confetti drop, and the symbolism behind the event. With the 250th anniversary of the United States just around the corner, Tom reveals a special surprise for the 2026 ball drop, making this episode a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the magic of Times Square! DELFIN ORTIZ, General Manager of One Times Square and Senior Vice President of Operations, Development & Construction at Jamestown. This is Delfin's 1st time on Fun Friday, though Cristyne and Tom (KMC was in in Italy) welcomed President & CEO of Jamestown, Michael Phillips, on August 5th, to preview One Times Square. Delfin Ortiz is a General Manager, Senior Vice President of Operations at Jamestown. He leads operations of One Times Square, a $500 million project transforming the property into an experiential hub at the intersection of art, technology, and entertainment. Prior to joining Jamestown, Mr. Ortiz was Managing Director at One World Observatory overseeing observation deck, restaurant, cafe, event space, and tenant space at One World Trade Center and 151 W 42nd St. He also oversaw Sky View Observatory in Seattle, Washington, View Boston in Massachusetts, Vue Orleans in Louisiana, and the Shard in London, England. Mr. Ortiz has more than 25 years of experience in the hotel industry, operating and promoting Four/Five Diamond Properties for Omni Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Hotels in New York, Houston, Miami, Austin, Virginia, Pittsburgh, and San Antonio. During his time in the hotel industry, he was the recipient of the Associate of the Year, Manager of the Year, Executive of the Year, and General Manager of the Year. Mr. Ortiz earned an Associate of Applied Sciences from the City University of New York and a Diploma in Hospitality Management from New York University. ABOUT ONE TIMES SQUARE: One Times Square is the focal point of the Times Square New Year's Eve Celebration and home of the New Year's Eve Ball! The 26-story building, originally built as the headquarters for the New York Times in 1904, the 121-year-old building will offer visitors a new way to experience one of the world's most renowned locations. The building will continue to host New Year's Eve celebrations and house the New Year's Eve Ball as it enters its next chapter. Following a $500 million redevelopment, the historic building in the heart of Times Square will feature a range of exciting attractions, designed to engage visitors throughout the year. These experiences will establish One Times Square as a year-round hub for experiential entertainment, celebrations, and new traditions in the heart of New York City.
Addicted to the Mouse: Planning Disney World, Disneyland, and All Things Disney
On today's Disney Podcast we are talking about 25 of the most iconic Disney World attractions that are no longer around. From SpectroMagic to the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, some of these are incredibly nostalgic for our family and we miss them a lot. Which ones were you most fond of? Enjoy! This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations. For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney and Universal Vacations, visit https://www.fantasticalvacations.com We would love you to join us on Patreon! Thanks so much for supporting the show. We also have Addicted to the Mouse Merchandise! You can check it out at https://addictedtothemerch.com Thanks so much for listening! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Sunday for the podcast. Join us every Sunday and Wednesday evening as we take you to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, on Disney Cruise Line, Universal Studios and everywhere in between! We can be found at www.addictedtothemouse.com and be reached at danandleslie@addictedtothemouse.com Please also connect with us here: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/addictedtothemouse Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@AddictedtotheMouse Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AddictedtotheMouse/ Instagram – https://instagram.com/addictedtothemouse/ The post 25 Iconic Disney World Attractions That Are Now Extinct appeared first on Addicted to the Mouse.
Happy thirsty Thursday! We put the rockaholics to the test!
Payne and Pendergast look back at the year of TAKE-A-MANIA and give there thoughts on some of the best winners of the year!
Gaming hosts Josh and Ryan are back with a can't miss gaming packed episode. Join us we chat, reminisce, and break down the most iconic video game sounds of all time! Those sounds every gamer knows by heart and jump to mind at the press of a button. Join us as we break down our favorites and some honorable mentions along the way. This is one gaming episode you don't want to miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Merry Christmas from Fr. Mike Schmitz and all of us here at Ascension! While we celebrate the birth of Christ, the true reason for this season, we also reflect on the many blessings and joys with the ones we love! Come celebrate with us as Fr. Mike reacts to Christmas movies and shares how each movie reveals a deeply Christian message to all of us!
#904. This week on Off the Vine, Kaitlyn sits down with actress Elaine Hendrix — you may know her as Meredith Blake from The Parent Trap — for a conversation that goes way beyond the movie you think you know her from!Elaine opens up about returning to dance decades later on Dancing with the Stars, why she was convinced she was going home every single week, and how a cracked rib nearly took her out of the competition. She shares what viewers didn't see: the nonstop rehearsals, emotional whiplash, intense competitiveness, and why the timing finally felt right to say yes after turning the show down before.We rewind to the moment that changed everything — being hit by a car just as her dance career was taking off — and how living with chronic pain reshaped her relationship with her body and work. Elaine also reflects on landing The Parent Trap at 26 (as the 433rd actress to audition), why Meredith Blake has become a millennial icon, and how fans' relationship with that character has completely flipped.Honest, funny, and full of perspective, this is a conversation you won't want to miss!If you're LOVING this podcast, please follow and leave a rating and review below! PLUS, FOLLOW OUR PODCAST INSTAGRAM HERE!Thank you to our Sponsors! Check out these deals!Airalo: If you've got an international trip coming up, download the Airalo app now or visit AIRALO.com and use code VINE for 15% off your first eSIM.Better Help: Off the vine listeners get 10% off at BetterHelp.com/VINE.Quince: Go to Quince.com/vine for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too!EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 4:04 — The rib injury on Dancing with the Stars that forced Elaine to miss an episode — and how pushing too hard in rehearsals literally cracked ribs12:28 — Being hit by a car at 21 just after moving to LA — the moment that abruptly ended her dream of a dance career14:32 — The Parent Trap audition process — and how she became Meredith Blake!37:32 — The reality show that would absolutely destroy Elaine — and why she wouldn't last five minutes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Danny and Jenna are wrapping up season 7 of A Very Merry Iconic Podcast with a recap of the Sandra Bullock film, While You Were Sleeping! Special thanks to everyone for joining us on our continued journey of analyzing chaotic, beautiful, and unhinged holiday content! See you next year for season 8!!!*Order Danny's book here: https://amzn.to/3Z5mjHS*For A Very Merry Iconic Podcast merch go to EverythingIconic.StoreFollow @AVeryMerryIconicPodcast on InstagramDanny: @DannyPellegrinoJenna: @Jenna.BristerA Very Merry Iconic Podcast is presented by Amazon and Acast Creative! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.