Distortion of the perception of reality
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Psychologist Anne Wilson studies how we construct our identities over time—how we remember the past, imagine the future, and tell ourselves stories that shape who we believe we are. In this episode, we explore why our memories are often less reliable than we think, and how that inaccuracy might actually be a feature, not a bug. Anne shares insights from her work on temporal self-appraisal theory, including surprising research showing how people often rewrite their pasts to make it seem like they're always improving. We also talk about how memory malleability impacts mental health, relationships, and political polarization. Why do people remember the same childhood in radically different ways? Why do people recall their past selves as worse than they actually were? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Amateur de rock sous toutes ses formes ou presque? Cette émission s'adresse à vous! Nouveautés, découvertes et rock en tout genres! L'émission qui est en constante évolution propose une vision éclectique et parallèle de la musique actuelle: Indie, artistes émergents, musique alternative, psychédélique, progressif, classic rock, folk rock, country, alternatif ainsi que des thématiques sur différents sujets concernant la musique. Le tout agrémenté d'informations pertinentes et de commentaires constructifs. Animé par Vincent Delisle et Jacques Dulac, tous les samedis 20h. Pour être au courant des thèmes des émissions et aussi pour nous faire parvenir vos commentaires et suggestions. Vous pouvez aussi devenir membre de notre page Facebook ainsi que Mixcloud. Facebook : www.facebook.com/pages/Illusions-Auditives/197338116996610 Mixcloud pour les podcasts : www.mixcloud.com/IllusionsAuditivesCKRL/
Welcome back to The Cashflow Project! In this episode, we chat with Brett Synicky—real estate investor, licensed agent, and self-directed IRA & solo 401k expert at Sense Financial. Brett shares lessons from his 18+ years in real estate, from helping at his dad's rentals to navigating the 2008 crash. Learn how to use retirement accounts creatively, reduce taxes, and tap into passive investing and private lending. If you're ready to unlock hidden capital and build real wealth, don't miss this one! [00:00] Real Estate & Financial Flexibility [04:45] Real Estate Journey with Solo 401k [09:55] Illusions of Easy Money [12:23] Market Shifts and Career Pivot [16:24] Solo 401k Loan for Real Estate [19:41] "Invest in What You Know" [21:45] Investment Vulnerability Revealed by Covid [26:09] Exploring Retirement Options Proactively [26:46] Currency Devaluation and Asset Strategy [32:32] Bypassing Custodians with LLC or Trust [33:15] Efficient Investment Management Approach [37:58] "Advice: Get Right with God Early" [39:38] No TV: Create Your Vision [43:06] Wealth Growth Monthly Meetings Connect with Brett Synicky! Website LinkedIn Instagram Connect with The Cashflow Project! Website LinkedIn YouTube Facebook Instagram
https://thecommunists.org/2025/04/30/news/no-illusions-bourgeois-democracy/
#vinayakjoshi #kannadainterviews #podcast 00:00 - Titles00:26 - Show starts here01:29 - Introducing Aakarsh S Bhat05:20 - Mind reading trick09:12 - Power of manifestation14:48 - Learning magic tricks17:19 - Card magic trick21:04 - Vipassana's impact on his life30:12 - Telepathy magic trick35:15 - When magic trick failed39:15 - Magic is under-appreciated41:41 - Autograph magic trickThis week on Nayaka With Vinayaka, prepare to be amazed as we welcome international illusionist & mentalist Aakarsh S Bhat - a modern-day magician who blends mind tricks, manifestation, and deep inner work like Vipassana meditation into his magical journey.
Amateur de rock sous toutes ses formes ou presque? Cette émission s'adresse à vous! Nouveautés, découvertes et rock en tout genres! L'émission qui est en constante évolution propose une vision éclectique et parallèle de la musique actuelle: Indie, artistes émergents, musique alternative, psychédélique, progressif, classic rock, folk rock, country, alternatif ainsi que des thématiques sur différents sujets concernant la musique. Le tout agrémenté d'informations pertinentes et de commentaires constructifs. Animé par Vincent Delisle et Jacques Dulac, tous les samedis 20h. Pour être au courant des thèmes des émissions et aussi pour nous faire parvenir vos commentaires et suggestions. Vous pouvez aussi devenir membre de notre page Facebook ainsi que Mixcloud. Facebook : www.facebook.com/pages/Illusions-Auditives/197338116996610 Mixcloud pour les podcasts : www.mixcloud.com/IllusionsAuditivesCKRL/
“Can I just listen? Can I just listen to what I feel inside and not need it to make sense?” If you feel the call, the time is NOW!!! To simplify ... because I am all about simple ... there are TWO NEW TIMEFRAMES FOR BONUS OPTIONS. If you purchase anything, any offer in The Jaclyn Shaw brand before the end of July you will get access to my Broadcast Channel (aka my church) hosted on Telegram until Dec 2025. ** if you've purchased the Hidden Offer previously you will get access until this date as well ** And if you purchase any of the offerings below BEFORE July 11th at 2pm PDT you will also get to access the bonuses described below!!!!!! OFFER 1 | THE ACTIVATION ALBUM | $111 Life-time Access to 12 core Jaclyn Shaw Activations. Bonus until Friday at 2pm PT: Access Module 1, the first transmission inside The Ascension Pathway. OFFER 2 | HIDDEN OFFER | $222 Lifetime access to Part 1 (pre-recorded) + Part 2 (being delivered live in July). Bonus until Friday at 2pm PT: get my Feb 2025 Hidden Offer for free. Includes 6 hours of trainings on personal power, radical self responsibility, voice + visibility, Money + wealth creation, and the let go and let God frequency. OFFER 3 | 30 MINUTE 1:1 CALL | $555 30 minute private mentorship session Bonus until Friday at 2pm PT: Is the price!!! OFFER 4 | THE ASCENSION PATHWAY | $1111 A 19 module course designed for you to see beyond the illusions of the Human Realm. Illusions such as need, control, lack, failure, unworthiness, limitation ... and more. You will get immediate + lifetime access to these modules AND you will get access to join LIVE for future deepening sessions. Bonus until Friday at 2pm PT: GET the hidden offer for Free + receive guaranteed hot seat mentorship on one of the upcoming LIVE calls. *If you're already in The Summer 2025 Hidden Offer, email us and we'll send you a discount code for $222 off The Ascension Pathway. OFFER 5+6 | HOLY CHAMBER MASTERMIND | $6K for 6 months | $10K for 12 months A mastermind Activated by God which includes weekly 90 min mastermind sessions. Bonus until Friday at 2pm PT: get a 60 min 1:1 call with me + The Ascension Pathway for free. + by-pass the application process for this mastermind. OFFER 7 | THE HYBRID OFFER: Includes 12 private mentorship sessions(one a month)+ 12 months in the Holy Chamber Mastermind, as well as all courses Jak launches during your 12 months including the Activation Album + the Ascension Pathway.Bonus until Friday at 2pm PT: VIP ticket to on stage experience with me + 1 extra month so 13 months not 12 months in this offer THE ACTIVATION ALBUM SUMMER 2025 HIDDEN OFFER 30 MIN 1:1 CALL THE ASCENSION PATHWAY THE HOLY CHAMBER | 6 MONTH THE HOLY CHAMBER | 12 MONTH THE HYBRID OFFER
This is the last bit with my good friend Kelly J Mendenhall... For now. As she said, "I didn't come this far to only go this far"... or something to that effect. There's so much more ahead! This is what we all have to remind ourselves as we navigate the crap of life... Don't give up before you get to the good parts. Kelly... Thank you. You are truly a Godsend. I love you and I'm so thrilled to finally have you on the show. We need to do more. God bless you all and have the best (rest) of this week... As well as amazing lives. ;) We'll be here with you, letting you know you're not alone and you do have help. Affordable Art Revolution, click here. To buy Kelly's Book: "Skin in the Game (the stories my tattoos tell)" To buy the other books mentioned: "Illusions (the adventures of a reluctant messiah)" or "Way of the Peaceful Warrior" ****If you liked The Apprenticeship Diaries (T.A.D.), please follow us, rate, and review us! Also, get our webpage to climb on the search engine by visiting it HERE. If you would like to donate to the show, we greatly appreciate the support. Click here to throw us a little love.
On this episode of Venus Rising, host Ellie Cleary talks about common misunderstandings, misconceptions and mistakes when learning/working with our AstroCartography and shares more about how the AstroCartography is calling us to co-create with it. Join me to learn what Embodied AstroCartography is, and why it can be such a powerful tool when we choose to engage with it consciously. Resources Mentioned in this episode:Join my Embodied AstroCartography 2-part workshop on 15th & 20th July - Full info & register hereSacred Feminine Rebirth Coaching with Ellie - Applications currently open hereOther sessions & opportunities to work with me - find out more here. If you enjoyed today's episode please do leave a 5* rating and review on your podcast app to help more people find this show. Thank you! Ellie Cleary is a Priestess, Astrologer and guide/coach for women on journeys of reclamation and transformation. To connect with me, head over to elliecleary.com to join my newsletter or connect with me on Instagram or Facebook @ellieclearycoachingTo our rising!
July 9, 2025 – Julian Brigden, president of MI2 Partners, joins FS Insider's Cris Sheridan for a must-listen macro deep dive. Julian discusses the surging S&P 500 and Nvidia's record highs, but warns of a “money illusion” as the dollar weakens...
Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to David Freeman from Palm Coast, FL. Thank you for your partnership with us through Project23. You're helping people everywhere live with authentic faith. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 10:23-31: And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” Peter began to say to him, “See, we have left everything and followed you.” Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”— Mark 10:23-31 Jesus speaks a sobering fact: “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Not because riches are wrong. But because riches are deceptive. Wealth, comfort, and success—all can offer an illusion. An illusion of control, security, and self-made power. But these are shadows, not substance. And many of us, even those without great wealth, fall for the same illusions. We often cling to: Titles for identity. Relationships for validation. Savings for security. Performance for peace. And yet, when these things are threatened, we freak out, because what we thought was firm was faulty, what was solid was shifting sand. And Jesus wants to set us free from this illusion. Not to take away our joy, but to free us from the illusion so we can experience the freedom of greater joy. Then Peter exclaims as he beats his chest, “We've left everything for you!” And Jesus reassures his statement, even though he knows his own words will test him. Peter has not left everything because a rooster is yet to crow. He was still clinging to his ideas about Jesus and his security, safety, and significance, which is why Jesus explained again, "The first will be last. And the last will be first." Stop clinging to things that pretend to be saviors. Your status, your stuff, your success—none of them can save you; only Jesus can. Let go of the illusions, and grab hold of what's real. True security is never found in what you secure, but in the One who saves and secures your salvation. #LetGoAndTrust, #FaithOverComfort, #Project23 ASK THIS: What illusion of control are you tempted to believe? Why do comfort and success often feel more trustworthy than faith? Where is God asking you to trust Him more deeply today? What's something you need to release so you can follow Jesus more fully? DO THIS: Identify one illusion you're tempted to trust—then name it in prayer and replace it with faith in Jesus. PRAY THIS: Lord, open my eyes to the things I rely on instead of you. Help me let go of what's false so I can live by true faith. Amen. PLAY THIS: “More Than Anything” by Natalie Grant.
3:18 - Today's Topic Breakdown - It's a Documentary Roundup on today's show, with Sooz Reviews of the My Mom Jayne, the latest installment of Trainwreck (Poop Cruise! Oh my!), and Sally Ride. We learn how Jayne Mansfield was a victim of a Hollywood system that objectifies women and society's decision to put women, especially beautiful women, into a very small box, and the ways secrets can tear families apart. We discuss the cruise that lost power and became a floating toilet in short order, and our theories about why the passengers got along and left with pretty good memories anyway. We talk about astronaut and badass bitch Sally Ride, and how the very reasons she became a trailblazer also made her hard to get to know and somewhat unlikable. Plus, we hear about the "birthday effect" where people are more likely to die on their birthdays, and we learn whether it's actually true or an illusion, and if it's true, why that might be.3:18 - Episode Table Of Contents7:34 - Susie and Sarah on the field at the Pirates game11:06 - Our favorite makeup ever13:40 - Jayne Mansfield Documentary23:40 - Poop Cruise Documentary36:06 - Our favorite comfy athlege clothes.38:06 - Sally Ride Documentary46:45 - The Birthday Effect57:20 - Share your comments about the Birthday Effect.Comment on Spotify, and on YouTubeConnect with us on social media:BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/braincandypodcastSusie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susiemeisterSarah's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imsarahriceBCP on X: https://www.x.com/braincandypodSponsors:Visit https://shopbeam.com/BRAINCANDY and use code BRAINCANDY to get our exclusive discount of up to 35% off.New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping at https://thrivecausemetics.com/BRAINCANDYSave 20% Off Honeylove by going to https://www.honeylove.com/BRAINCANDY #honeylovepodSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Amateur de rock sous toutes ses formes ou presque? Cette émission s'adresse à vous! Nouveautés, découvertes et rock en tout genres! L'émission qui est en constante évolution propose une vision éclectique et parallèle de la musique actuelle: Indie, artistes émergents, musique alternative, psychédélique, progressif, classic rock, folk rock, country, alternatif ainsi que des thématiques sur différents sujets concernant la musique. Le tout agrémenté d'informations pertinentes et de commentaires constructifs. Animé par Vincent Delisle et Jacques Dulac, tous les samedis 20h. Pour être au courant des thèmes des émissions et aussi pour nous faire parvenir vos commentaires et suggestions. Vous pouvez aussi devenir membre de notre page Facebook ainsi que Mixcloud. Facebook : www.facebook.com/pages/Illusions-Auditives/197338116996610 Mixcloud pour les podcasts : www.mixcloud.com/IllusionsAuditivesCKRL/
LESLESSON 185I Want The Peace Of God.To say these words is nothing. But to mean these words is everything. If you could but mean them for just an instant, there would be no further sorrow possible for you in any form; in any place or time. Heaven would be completely given back to full awareness, memory of God entirely restored, the resurrection of all creation fully recognized.No one can mean these words and not be healed. He cannot play with dreams, nor think he is himself a dream. He cannot make a hell and think it real. He wants the peace of God, and it is given him. For that is all he wants, and that is all he will receive. Many have said these words. But few indeed have meant them. You have but to look upon the world you see around you to be sure how very few they are. The world would be completely changed, should any two agree these words express the only thing they want.Two minds with one intent become so strong that what they will becomes the Will of God. For minds can only join in truth. In dreams, no two can share the same intent. To each, the hero of the dream is different; the outcome wanted not the same for both. Loser and gainer merely shift about in changing patterns, as the ratio of gain to loss and loss to gain takes on a different aspect or another form.Yet compromise alone a dream can bring. Sometimes it takes the form of union, but only the form. The meaning must escape the dream, for compromising is the goal of dreaming. Minds cannot unite in dreams. They merely bargain. And what bargain can give them the peace of God? Illusions come to take His place. And what He means is lost to sleeping minds intent on compromise, each to his gain and to another's loss.To mean you want the peace of God is to renounce all dreams. For no one means these words who wants illusions, and who therefore seeks the means which bring illusions. He has looked on them, and found them wanting. Now he seeks to go beyond them, recognizing that another dream would offer nothing more than all the others. Dreams are one to him. And he has learned their only difference is one of form, for one will bring the same despair and misery as do the rest.The mind which means that all it wants is peace must join with other minds, for that is how peace is obtained. And when the wish for peace is genuine, the means for finding it is given, in a form each mind that seeks for it in honesty can understand. Whatever form the lesson takes is planned for him in such a way that he can not mistake it, if his asking is sincere. But if he asks without sincerity, there is no form in which the lesson will meet with acceptance and be truly learned.Let us today devote our practicing to recognizing that we really mean the words we say. We want the peace of God. This is no idle wish. These words do not request another dream be given us. They do not ask for compromise, nor try to make another bargain in the hope that there may yet be one that can succeed where all the rest have failed. To mean these words acknowledges illusions are in vain, requesting the eternal in the place of shifting dreams which seem to change in what they offer, but are one in nothingness.Today devote your practice periods to careful searching of your mind, to find the dreams you cherish still. What do you ask for in your heart? Forget the words you use in making your requests. Consider but what you believe will comfort you, and bring you happiness. But be you not dismayed by lingering illusions, for their form is not what matters now. Let not some dreams be more acceptable, reserving shame and secrecy for others. They are one. And being one, one question should be asked of all of them, “Is this what I would have, in place of Heaven and the peace of God?”This is the choice you make. Be not deceived that it is otherwise. No compromise is possible in this. You choose God's peace, or you have asked for dreams. And dreams will come as you requested them. Yet will God's peace come just as certainly, and to remain with you forever. It will not be gone with every twist and turning of the road, to reappear, unrecognized, in forms which shift and change with every step you take.You want the peace of God. And so do all who seem to seek for dreams. For them as well as for yourself, you ask but this when you make this request with deep sincerity. For thus you reach to what they really want, and join your own intent with what they seek above all things, perhaps unknown to them, but sure to you. You have been weak at times, uncertain in your purpose, and unsure of what you wanted, where to look for it, and where to turn for help in the attempt. Help has been given you. And would you not avail yourself of it by sharing it?No one who truly seeks the peace of God can fail to find it. For he merely asks that he deceive himself no longer by denying to himself what is God's Will. Who can remain unsatisfied who asks for what he has already? Who could be unanswered who requests an answer which is his to give? The peace of God is yours.For you was peace created, given you by its Creator, and established as His Own eternal gift. How can you fail, when you but ask for what He wills for you? And how could your request be limited to you alone? No gift of God can be unshared. It is this attribute that sets the gifts of God apart from every dream that ever seemed to take the place of truth.No one can lose and everyone must gain whenever any gift of God has been requested and received by anyone. God gives but to unite. To take away is meaningless to Him. And when it is as meaningless to you, you can be sure you share one Will with Him, and He with you. And you will also know you share one Will with all your brothers, whose intent is yours.It is this one intent we seek today, uniting our desires with the need of every heart, the call of every mind, the hope that lies beyond despair, the love attack would hide, the brotherhood that hate has sought to sever, but which still remains as God created it. With Help like this beside us, can we fail today as we request the peace of God be given us?- Jesus Christ in ACIM
Vitalic - Poison Lips (Extended) [Different] Jamie xx, The Avalanches - All You Children (Original Mix) [Young] Marsh - Stay (Extended Mix) [Interstellar Recordings] M.O.S. - Open Hearts (Extended Mix) [UV] Paronator - No Gravity (PROFF Extended Edit) [Anjunabeats] Envotion - Dream of You (Original Mix) [Songspire Records] Whitesquare - XPR (Original Mix) [Permanent Vacation] TREN - Ephemera (Original Mix) [not meant to happen] Chicola - Samerano (Original Mix) [Early Morning] Four Tet - Into Dust (Still Falling) [XL Recordings]
LESSON 184The Name Of God Is My Inheritance.You live by symbols. You have made up names for everything you see. Each one becomes a separate entity, identified by its own name. By this you carve it out of unity. By this you designate its special attributes, and set it off from other things by emphasizing space surrounding it. This space you lay between all things to which you give a different name; all happenings in terms of place and time; all bodies which are greeted by a name.This space you see as setting off all things from one another is the means by which the world's perception is achieved. You see something where nothing is, and see as well nothing where there is unity; a space between all things, between all things and you. Thus do you think that you have given life in separation. By this split you think you are established as a unity which functions with an independent will.What are these names by which the world becomes a series of discrete events, of things ununified, of bodies kept apart and holding bits of mind as separate awarenesses? You gave these names to them, establishing perception as you wished to have perception be. The nameless things were given names, and thus reality was given them as well. For what is named is given meaning and will then be seen as meaningful; a cause of true effect, with consequence inherent in itself.This is the way reality is made by partial vision, purposefully set against the given truth. Its enemy is wholeness. It conceives of little things and looks upon them. And a lack of space, a sense of unity or vision that sees differently, become the threats which it must overcome, conflict with and deny.Yet does this other vision still remain a natural direction for the mind to channel its perception. It is hard to teach the mind a thousand alien names, and thousands more. Yet you believe this is what learning means; its one essential goal by which communication is achieved, and concepts can be meaningfully shared.This is the sum of the inheritance the world bestows. And everyone who learns to think that it is so accepts the signs and symbols that assert the world is real. It is for this they stand. They leave no doubt that what is named is there. It can be seen, as is anticipated. What denies that it is true is but illusion, for it is the ultimate reality. To question it is madness; to accept its presence is the proof of sanity.Such is the teaching of the world. It is a phase of learning everyone who comes must go through. But the sooner he perceives on what it rests, how questionable are its premises, how doubtful its results, the sooner does he question its effects. Learning that stops with what the world would teach stops short of meaning. In its proper place, it serves but as a starting point from which another kind of learning can begin, a new perception can be gained, and all the arbitrary names the world bestows can be withdrawn as they are raised to doubt.Think not you made the world. Illusions, yes! But what is true in earth and Heaven is beyond your naming. When you call upon a brother, it is to his body that you make appeal. His true Identity is hidden from you by what you believe he really is. His body makes response to what you call him, for his mind consents to take the name you give him as his own. And thus his unity is twice denied, for you perceive him separate from you, and he accepts this separate name as his.It would indeed be strange if you were asked to go beyond all symbols of the world, forgetting them forever; yet were asked to take a teaching function. You have need to use the symbols of the world a while. But be you not deceived by them as well. They do not stand for anything at all, and in your practicing it is this thought that will release you from them. They become but means by which you can communicate in ways the world can understand, but which you recognize is not the unity where true communication can be found.Thus what you need are intervals each day in which the learning of the world becomes a transitory phase; a prison house from which you go into the sunlight and forget the darkness. Here you understand the Word, the Name Which God has given you; the one Identity Which all things share; the one acknowledgment of what is true. And then step back to darkness, not because you think it real, but only to proclaim its unreality in terms which still have meaning in the world that darkness rules.Use all the little names and symbols which delineate the world of darkness. Yet accept them not as your reality. The Holy Spirit uses all of them, but He does not forget creation has one Name, one Meaning, and a single Source Which unifies all things within Itself. Use all the names the world bestows on them but for convenience, yet do not forget they share the Name of God along with you.God has no name. And yet His Name becomes the final lesson that all things are one, and at this lesson does all learning end. All names are unified; all space is filled with truth's reflection. Every gap is closed, and separation healed. The Name of God is the inheritance He gave to those who chose the teaching of the world to take the place of Heaven. In our practicing, our purpose is to let our minds accept what God has given as the answer to the pitiful inheritance you made as fitting tribute to the Son He loves.No one can fail who seeks the meaning of the Name of God. Experience must come to supplement the Word. But first you must accept the Name for all reality, and realize the many names you gave its aspects have distorted what you see, but have not interfered with truth at all. One Name we bring into our practicing. One Name we use to unify our sight.And though we use a different name for each awareness of an aspect of God's Son, we understand that they have but one Name, Which He has given them. It is this Name we use in practicing. And through Its use, all foolish separations disappear which kept us blind. And we are given strength to see beyond them. Now our sight is blessed with blessings we can give as we receive.Father, our Name is Yours. In It we are united with all living things, and You Who are their one Creator. What we made and call by many different names is but a shadow we have tried to cast across Your Own Reality. And we are glad and thankful we were wrong. All our mistakes we give to You, that we may be absolved from all effects our errors seemed to have. And we accept the truth You give, in place of every one of them. Your Name is our salvation and escape from what we made. Your Name unites us in the oneness which is our inheritance and peace. Amen.- Jesus Christ in ACIM
Can you identify which of the patients is lying and which is telling the truth? At first sight, all of these folks appear to be harmless, but are they? You'll solve this puzzle if you pay attention to the smallest details. Attention, concentration, and the capacity to think beyond the box are the keys to answering riddles quickly. Are you prepared to take on this challenge? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can you identify which of the patients is lying and which is telling the truth? At first sight, all of these folks appear to be harmless, but are they? You'll solve this puzzle if you pay attention to the smallest details. Attention, concentration, and the capacity to think beyond the box are the keys to answering riddles quickly. Are you prepared to take on this challenge? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How do you apply for a job at Google? You must be faster and smarter than the typical human. Let's start honing our talents right away: strengthen your brain capacity, critical thinking, and analytical attitude. These riddles and puzzles with solutions can assist you in making sound judgments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Are biofuels and other forms of bioenergy truly ‘renewable' and ‘carbon neutral?'
In this academic-themed interview episode of Decoding the Gurus, Matt and Chris sit down to chat with Dorsa Amir and Chaz Firestone (@chazfirestone) about their recent paper 'Is Visual Perception WEIRD? The Müller-Lyer Illusion and the Cultural Byproduct Hypothesis.'In a conversation that serves as a welcome tonic to the endless lamentations of the gurus about academic groupthink and closed-minded silos, Dorsa and Chaz discuss the interdisciplinary nature of their work, debates around universal vs. culturally specific psychology, and the strength of evidence that visual perception varies between cultures. We also learn about the dangers of being STUPID: Studying Topics Uninformed by Prior Investigations in the Discipline, and attempt to uncover just how much Chaz enjoys popping balloons.A fun one that might even leave you a little bit more optimistic than usual!LinksAmir, D., & Firestone, C. (2025). Is visual perception WEIRD? The Müller-Lyer illusion and the cultural byproduct hypothesis. Psychological Review.Dorsa's Homepage and Mind and Culture Lab.Chaz's Perception & Mind Lab Homepage, his instagram, and his BJJ victory video.Decoding Academia 33: The Great Müller-Lyer Debate from Fish Tanks to Eye OperationsMickey Inzlicht's Substack on the Paper and the Debates around it.Henrich, J., Heine, S. J., & Norenzayan, A. (2010). The weirdest people in the world?. Behavioral and brain sciences, 33(2-3), 61-83.Lucca, K., Yuen, F., Wang, Y., Alessandroni, N., Allison, O., Alvarez, M., ... & Hamlin, J. K. (2025). Infants' Social Evaluation of Helpers and Hinderers: A Large‐Scale, Multi‐Lab, Coordinated Replication Study. Developmental Science, 28(1), e13581.
In episode 3 of Season 4, we explore the science of free will and to what degree God exerts control over our lives. We begin with Mike Genna, a prominent musician in the 1980s who spiraled into drug addiction after tragedy. Helping us to fully understand the science of addiction, we interview Joseph Caravella, an addiction specialist at the Betty Ford Clinic in St. Paul, Minnesota. From there, we delve into what physics tells us about free will with Dr. Robert Bishop, Professor of Physics and Philosophy at Wheaton College. Finally, we caught up with Dr. Raymond A. Blacketer, a scholar in the area of biblical exegesis, about the Christian perspective on free will and suffering. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Mike Genna Joseph Caravella Dr. Robert Bishop Dr. Raymond Blacketer
The Magic Guys sit down with renowned magician and consultant Dennis Kim. They dive into Dennis's innovative approach to magic, particularly his creative process behind the viral FISM online competition submission, exploring the art of deception and the intricacies of his mirror Illusions. Learn More About Dennis - https://www.thecloseupartist.com/ Follow Dennis Kim @thecloseupartist Vote for The Magic Guys to win a fism award! https://www.fismitaly2025.com/online-magic-special-awards/ Get the Magic guys Merch! https://themagicguysshow.com/en-aud/products/im-a-magic-guy-t-shirt Leave a voicemail for The Magic Guys - https://www.speakpipe.com/themagicguys Join The Magic Guys Discord!!! - https://discord.gg/sBUUCVwjPR Email Us - themagicguysshow@gmail.com The Podcast where Professional Magicians, Josh Norbido, Doug Conn & Nick Kay take on the important questions of life (Mainly from our youtube subscribers) and deliver answers from a Magicians point of view. Come hang out with us while we chat about our lives as Magicians and the ups and downs that go with it.
On this episode of The Horizon, John discusses the surprising inefficiencies in commercial real estate investing, specifically focusing on the apartment sector. He unpacks why markets like Chicago—despite strong rent growth and solid fundamentals—have higher cap rates and attract less capital than high-growth but lower-performing markets like Dallas-Fort Worth. John explores how investor behavior, herd mentality, and institutional capital flows influence asset values more than actual property performance. He concludes by highlighting overlooked cashflow markets like Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Milwaukee that offer strong yields in today's high-interest-rate environment. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at https://www.stamps.com/cre. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join the Best Ever Community The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we want serious commercial real estate investors like you inside. It's free to join, but you must apply and meet the criteria. Connect with top operators, LPs, GPs, and more, get real insights, and be part of a curated network built to help you grow. Apply now at www.bestevercommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week we're being asked to radically shed outdated forms of value, identity, and communication. It's a threshold moment—initiate your freedom from old paradigms. Let love, mysticism, and curiosity rewire your being.• Venus Conjunct Uranus at 29° TaurusThe 29th degree of any sign is a critical threshold—and this Venus (Relational One)-Uranus (Maverick) conjunction is a cosmic lightning strike to awaken us from complacency around beauty, embodiment, and connection. Uranus shakes the roots of Venus' Taurus temple. Old attachments get jolted. New love or creativity may feel shocking but necessary. This is a wake-up to liberate embodied wisdom and radical self-worth.Key Themes:⚡ Revolution of the Heart and Values
Animation is created by Bright Side. -------------------------------------------------------Music by Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com Check our Bright Side podcast on Spotify and leave a positive review! https://open.spotify.com/show/0hUkPxD34jRLrMrJux4VxV Subscribe to Bright Side: https://goo.gl/rQTJZz --------------------------------------------Our Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brightside Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightside.official TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brightside.official?lang=en Stock materials (photos, footages and other): https://www.depositphotos.com https://www.shutterstock.com https://www.eastnews.ru ------------------------------------------------------------------For more videos and articles visit: http://www.brightside.me Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
AI will fundamentally transform science. It will supercharge the research process, making it faster and more efficient and broader in scope. It will make scientists themselves vastly more productive, more objective, maybe more creative. It will make many human participants—and probably some human scientists—obsolete… Or at least these are some of the claims we are hearing these days. There is no question that various AI tools could radically reshape how science is done, and how much science is done. What we stand to gain in all this is pretty clear. What we stand to lose is less obvious, but no less important. My guest today is Dr. Molly Crockett. Molly is a Professor in the Department of Psychology and the University Center for Human Values at Princeton University. In a recent widely-discussed article, Molly and the anthropologist Dr. Lisa Messeri presented a framework for thinking about the different roles that are being imagined for AI in science. And they argue that, when we adopt AI in these ways, we become vulnerable to certain illusions. Here, Molly and I talk about four visions of AI in science that are currently circulating: AI as an Oracle, as a Surrogate, as a Quant, and as an Arbiter. We talk about the very real problems in the scientific process that AI promises to help us solve. We consider the ethics and challenges of using Large Language Models as experimental subjects. We talk about three illusions of understanding the crop up when we uncritically adopt AI into the research pipeline—an illusion that we understand more than we actually do; an illusion that we're covering a larger swath of a research space than we actually are; and the illusion that AI makes our work more objective. We also talk about how ideas from Science and Technology Studies (or STS) can help us make sense of this AI-driven transformation that, like it or no, is already upon us. Along the way Molly and I touch on: AI therapists and AI tutors, anthropomorphism, the culture and ideology of Silicon Valley, Amazon's Mechanical Turk, fMRI, objectivity, quantification, Molly's mid-career crisis, monocultures, and the squishy parts of human experience. Without further ado, on to my conversation with Dr. Molly Crockett. Enjoy! A transcript of this episode will be posted soon. Notes and links 5:00 – For more on LLMs—and the question of whether we understand how they work—see our earlier episode with Murray Shanahan. 9:00 – For the paper by Dr. Crockett and colleagues about the social/behavioral sciences and the COVID-19 pandemic, see here. 11:30 – For Dr. Crockett and colleagues' work on outrage on social media, see this recent paper. 18:00 – For a recent exchange on the prospects of using LLMs in scientific peer review, see here. 20:30 – Donna Haraway's essay, 'Situated Knowledges: The Science Question in Feminism and the Privilege of Partial Perspective', is here. See also Dr. Haraway's book, Primate Visions. 22:00 – For the recent essay by Henry Farrell and others on AI as a cultural technology, see here. 23:00 – For a recent report on chatbots driving people to mental health crises, see here. 25:30 – For the already-classic “stochastic parrots” article, see here. 33:00 – For the study by Ryan Carlson and Dr. Crockett on using crowd-workers to study altruism, see here. 34:00 – For more on the “illusion of explanatory depth,” see our episode with Tania Lombrozo. 53:00 – For the more about Ohio State's plans to incorporate AI in the classroom, see here. For a recent essay by Dr. Crockett on the idea of “techno-optimism,” see here. Recommendations More Everything Forever, by Adam Becker Transformative Experience, by L. A. Paul Epistemic Injustice, by Miranda Fricker Many Minds is a project of the Diverse Intelligences Summer Institute, which is made possible by a generous grant from the John Templeton Foundation to Indiana University. The show is hosted and produced by Kensy Cooperrider, with help from Assistant Producer Urte Laukaityte and with creative support from DISI Directors Erica Cartmill and Jacob Foster. Our artwork is by Ben Oldroyd. Our transcripts are created by Sarah Dopierala. Subscribe to Many Minds on Apple, Stitcher, Spotify, Pocket Casts, Google Play, or wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also now subscribe to the Many Minds newsletter here! We welcome your comments, questions, and suggestions. Feel free to email us at: manymindspodcast@gmail.com. For updates about the show, visit our website or follow us on Twitter (@ManyMindsPod) or Bluesky (@manymindspod.bsky.social).
FREEDOM - HEALTH - HAPPINESSThis podcast is highly addictive and seriously good for your health.SUPPORT DOC MALIK To make sure you don't miss any episodes, have access to bonus content, back catalogue, and monthly Live Streams, please subscribe to either:The paid Spotify subscription here: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/docmalik/subscribe The paid Substack subscription here: https://docmalik.substack.com/subscribeThank you to all the new subscribers for your lovely messages and reviews! And a big thanks to my existing subscribers for sticking with me and supporting the show! ABOUT THIS CONVERSATION: In this episode, I speak with Dr Suzanne Humphries, a courageous voice challenging the mainstream medical narrative. We explore her journey out of conventional medicine, the hidden history of vaccines, and the influence of global institutions like the World Economic Forum on public health. From Dissolving Illusions to Tartaria, informed consent to medical corruption, this is a powerful conversation about truth, empowerment, and reclaiming your health. If you've ever felt something was off with the system, you need to hear this.See my substack for more information.Much love, as always.Doc MalikLinksWebsite https://dissolvingillusions.com/IMPORTANT INFORMATIONCONSULTATION SERVICEIn a world of rushed 7-minute consultations and endless referrals, I offer you something rare: time, context, and clear guidance.As your health advocate, I can help you:Understand your diagnosis and decode medical jargonDecide who to see: GP, specialist, osteopath, physio, accupuntcurist, homeopath etc?Break down treatment plans in plain, easy to understand non jargon EnglishPrepare for surgery, understand your risks, obtain true informed consent, and optimise yourself pre-op Recover from surgery, advise you how to heal faster and quicker and minimise post-op complicationsManage chronic illness with lifestyle, mindset, and dietary changesExplore holistic options that complement conventional careImplement lifestyle changes like fasting, stress reduction, or movementAsk better questions, and get real answersGet an unbiased second opinionReady to Take Control?If you're navigating a health concern, preparing for a big decision, or simply want to feel more confident in your path forward, I'd love to support you.Book here https://docmalik.com/consultations/ Because it's your body, your life, and your future. Let's make sure you're informed and heard.WaterpureI distill all my water for drinking, washing fruit and vegetables, and cooking. If you knew what was in tap water, so would you!https://waterpure.co.uk/docmalik BUY HERE TODAYHunter & Gather FoodsSeed oils are inflammatory, toxic and nasty; eliminate them from your diet immediately. Check out the products from this great companyhttps://hunterandgatherfoods.com/?ref=DOCHG BUY HERE TODAYUse DOCHG to get 10% OFF your purchase with Hunter & Gather Foods.IMPORTANT NOTICEIf you value my podcasts, please support the show so that I can continue to speak up by choosing one or both of the following options - Buy me a coffee If you want to make a one-off donation.Doc Malik Merch Store Check out my amazing freedom merch
Rich is joined by Tony Grady—former U.S. Air Force test pilot and recent Senate candidate from Nevada—to break down the covert bombing mission reportedly authorized by President Trump: Operation Midnight Hammer. Grady explores the tactics and precision strategy that could have been used to carry out the targeted strike on Iran. Next, Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Blaine Holt—Air Force veteran, NATO advisor, entrepreneur, and Newsmax senior contributor—explains how Trump executed a geopolitical chess move: launching a strike, pressuring Iran into a ceasefire with Israel, and halting their nuclear ambitions. He also addresses the growing concerns over Iran's potential disruption of the Strait of Hormuz and the looming sleeper cell threat inside U.S. borders. Finally, Adam Kissel, visiting fellow for higher education reform at The Heritage Foundation, exposes the growing ideological bias and academic decline in Ivy League institutions—and how the nation's top schools are failing to equip students with truth, balance, and intellectual rigor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Spoilers (and magic!) ahead homies. Movie breakdown starts at 14:00. We've got magic to do, and we're ready to learn form the best! So we ventured into new territory to spend some time with Clive Barker's Lord of Illusions! Did this movie show us something we'd never seen before? or was it up to it's old tricks? Also, Erika folds under pressure while Roshane can't stop monkeying around.
On this episode, Samiksha Gaur, a mom and baker who has found herself enjoying dark romance recently, talks to me about her life engaging with bookish social media. We talk about a bunch of series that she loves, how she got back into reading later in life, and we give a big shoutout to Tanima Kazi for getting us connected! Follow Samiksha on Instagram Books mentioned in this episode: What Betsy's reading: Lost Man's Lane by Scott Carson Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab New People by Danzy Senna King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby Books Highlighted by Samiksha: Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross Broken Bonds (The Bonds that Tie Series #1) by J. Bree A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR Series #1) by Sarah J. Maas The Kat Bunglar by Tanima Kazi The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid Quicksilver by Callie Heart Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Lady Iris's Lover by Kelsey Painter Mindf*ck by S.T. Abby Butcher and Blackbird by Brynne Weaver The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni All books available on my Bookshop.org episode page. Other books mentioned in this episode: Famous Five by Beja & Nataël Nancy Drew by Carolyn Keene Goosebumps by R.L. Stine Haunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton Never Lie by Frieda McFadden There are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros Caraval by Stephanie Garber Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber
In this episode of Altered State, Brad Zerbo and Zak Paine dissect the chaos of modern warfare, both kinetic and informational. From the release of bombshell whistleblower documents showing the FBI allegedly buried Chinese interference in the 2020 election, to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, the hosts explore how carefully crafted narratives are beginning to implode. They take on the left's desperate attempt to maintain control through distractions, digital censorship, and media gaslighting, while pointing out cracks in the establishment facade, including deep fractures inside the Democratic Party and Biden's plummeting credibility. The show also dives into Trump's strategic silence, the role of AI in public perception, and how faith and discernment are becoming essential tools for navigating an increasingly surreal reality. Blending righteous indignation, digital detective work, and a dose of spiritual clarity, this episode peels back the layers of deception propping up the regime. The illusion is breaking, and the hosts are here to document every glitch in the matrix.
It's the start of SEASON SEVEN! And original co-host Rowenna Miller is back to join us in a reflection of how multiple years of doing this podcast has affected how each of us thinks about worldbuilding. What have we learned from our many amazing guests, and how have they inspired us to think about worldbuilding in new ways? Have our worldbuilding interests and focuses shifted? And since the real world we live in has been... um... interesting over the past several years, how has that -- and the changes in our own lives and careers -- influenced our work? (Transcript for Episode 157 -- Thank you, scribes!) Our Guest: Rowenna Miller is the author of the Unraveled Kingdom trilogy, The Fairy Bargains of Prospect Hill, and The Palace of Illusions, as well as short fiction. She is also a prior cohost of this podcast! And also an English professor, and a fairly handy seamstress. She lives in Indiana with her husband, two daughters, four cats, and an ever-growing flock of chickens.
What happens when a celebrated film journalist turns the camera inward? In this moving episode, veteran critic and author Bhawana Somaaya unpacks her memoir Farewell Karachi. Known for her decades-long career documenting Bollywood's biggest stars like Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan, Bhawana shares the deeply personal stories behind her family's displacement from Karachi to Mumbai during Partition.She recounts everything from her mother's hilarious one-liners about working as a young journalist in the 1970s to the emotional weight of her father's solitary journey during Partition and the legacy of a lost home. The conversation flows through intimate anecdotes, candid reflections, and the subtle power of memories that shape who we become.Bhawana's honest reflections offer a masterclass in sensitivity and storytelling. Her journey shows that emotional intelligence isn't just a trait—it's a lens, a compass, and sometimes, the story itself.Books, shows, and films mentioned in this episode:Because He Is by Meghna GulzarDarlingji: The True Love Story of Nargis and Sunil Dutt by Kishwar DesaiParveen Babi by Karishma UpadhyayA Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee DivakaruniPakeezahGarm Hava NavrangKaun Banega Crorepati‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.
Send us a textIn this episode of "Chasing Illusions," Demetri dives deep into the complexities of falling for potential, both in ourselves and in others. Join him as he unpacks the often-unrealistic expectations we set when we see the spark of what could be, rather than embracing the reality of what is. Through personal anecdotes, expert insights, and real-life examples, Demetri guides listeners on how to recognize when they're idealizing potential and the potential pitfalls that come with it. Tune in for thought-provoking discussions on self-awareness, personal growth, and the importance of setting boundaries in relationships. Don't let potential blind you—learn how to make choices rooted in reality!Viewer discretion is advised for this love-themed podcast. The content may contain discussions of sensitive topics related to relationships, dating, and love. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners, especially those uncomfortable with open and vulnerable conversations. We encourage our listeners to practice self-care and to reach out to a trusted friend or professional if they need support. If you have no friends, you have me! Welcome to the Lost Loverboy Podcast!
Episode 233How We Distort LifeSensers! Happy Father's Day to every dad who made an impact on a human mind in this life whether it was your kid or not. I want to state that I believe we have this tendency discredit people based on our narrowed minded ideology. We can dismiss others because they're not as old as we are and in some cases as young as we are. I believe both sides have value to information based on focus and not so much age itself with relativity.“I can't live without you” “you complete me” “I won't breathe without you”…a few toxic statements I believe were programmed into our minds and we took it literally vs figuratively. I also believe this way of thinking has fucked up how we see relationships as a whole thus creating a jaded sense of entitlement whether it be the women or the men. Our parents told us so many things that we didn't necessarily care to hear initially, then life happens and all that shit clicks. I'm very grateful for the lessons taught by my parents and adults alike who saw shit down the road and just wanted to keep me on my toes in life. Sometimes it won't make sense until you're in it, then looking back everything happened the way it was intended by God and His Universe. May God and His Universe remove any negative energy you may have stored from reading this. If you dig the episode, click, like, and share on your page. Help build the tribe of healing
Think you can outwit a dragon with a fake bridge and a charisma check? Welcome to the RPGBOT.Podcast episode where illusions kill, confusion reigns, and disbelief is just a failed Will save away. Show Notes: In this spellbinding episode, the RPGBOT crew explores the mischievous magic of illusions, where what you see may not be what you get—and what you don't see might still sucker-punch your barbarian. Between tactical breakdowns and spontaneous chipmunk tangents, the hosts weave a chaotic yet surprisingly informative tapestry of illusion mechanics, storytelling antics, and system comparisons between Pathfinder 2e, D&D 5e, and even a detour through Final Fantasy materia mechanics. The episode begins with a healthy dose of banter and battlefield survival strategies (spoiler: bolas are back in fashion), before veering headfirst into the world of illusion magic. Expect spirited debates about phantasms, the value of disbelief, and whether players should be required to announce, “I squint suspiciously at the air in front of me” before they're allowed a Will save. From chipmunks being bullied out of neighborhoods by thug squirrels, to Gandalf being played by Fozzie Bear, this episode is a chaotic celebration of how illusion and disguise mechanics shape storytelling, humor, and heartbreak at the gaming table. Plus: learn why DMs should occasionally pretend not to know what's happening... even when they wrote the plot twist. And yes—someone actually asks the important question: “Is it really a good illusion if it doesn't accidentally start a bar fight?” Key Takeaways: Character death matters—especially when caused by a flaming imaginary bridge. Optimization tips: Use bolas. No, seriously. They're hilarious and effective. Chipmunks are rare because squirrels have anger issues. Illusions are not just for mischief—they can dramatically shift combat and story if used (and ruled) well. Phantasms can cause real damage... and even real friendship-ending debates. DMs need to balance illusions to avoid turning a boss fight into a Scooby-Doo episode. Pathfinder 2e provides more clarity on disbelieving illusions than 5e, which mostly says "good luck, champ." Disguises are not illusions, but they can lead to awkward social interactions at royal balls. Illusions can enhance roleplay, story arcs, and character drama—but they need DM discretion. Session zero is a great place to ask, “How weird can my illusions get before the game breaks?” Improvisation is key: Illusions don't always follow the script. Neither should the DM. Muppet recasting of Tolkien characters is an important use of podcast time. Kermit as Frodo. Fozzie as Gandalf. Sam remains unchanged. Materias in Final Fantasy are weird, wild, and somehow relevant to this conversation. Illusions shouldn't ruin the fun—just complicate it in hilarious and meaningful ways. Players rarely remember to ‘study' illusions, so DMs must choose whether to be kind... or let them walk face-first into the dragon's tail. Game mechanics are weird, but that's half the fun. Communication is everything—especially when you're lying to your DM with a straight face.
In this thought-provoking episode of Deprogrammed, Catherine welcomes longtime friend, yogi, and esoteric researcher Brice Watson to unpack the layers of programming that shape our views on health, history, identity, and truth.From ghost stories in the Deep South to sacred Sanskrit teachings in India, Brice shares her journey of awakening, spiritual sovereignty, and how she came to question everything she was taught—from religion to medicine, education to politics.We explore:- Why "deprogramming" means letting go of your identity- The dangers of waiting for someone else to save you- How yoga philosophy and law of one teachings point us toward personal sovereignty- What spiritual ego looks like in the truth movement- How physical movement can reconnect us to truthThis is not just a conversation—it's a roadmap for waking up.
L'improbable feuilleton du conclave sur les retraites touche à sa fin. Bonne nouvelle, il a de fortes chances de se terminer en queue de poisson.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Think you can outwit a dragon with a fake bridge and a charisma check? Welcome to the RPGBOT.Podcast episode where illusions kill, confusion reigns, and disbelief is just a failed Will save away. Show Notes: In this spellbinding episode, the RPGBOT crew explores the mischievous magic of illusions, where what you see may not be what you get—and what you don't see might still sucker-punch your barbarian. Between tactical breakdowns and spontaneous chipmunk tangents, the hosts weave a chaotic yet surprisingly informative tapestry of illusion mechanics, storytelling antics, and system comparisons between Pathfinder 2e, D&D 5e, and even a detour through Final Fantasy materia mechanics. The episode begins with a healthy dose of banter and battlefield survival strategies (spoiler: bolas are back in fashion), before veering headfirst into the world of illusion magic. Expect spirited debates about phantasms, the value of disbelief, and whether players should be required to announce, “I squint suspiciously at the air in front of me” before they're allowed a Will save. From chipmunks being bullied out of neighborhoods by thug squirrels, to Gandalf being played by Fozzie Bear, this episode is a chaotic celebration of how illusion and disguise mechanics shape storytelling, humor, and heartbreak at the gaming table. Plus: learn why DMs should occasionally pretend not to know what's happening... even when they wrote the plot twist. And yes—someone actually asks the important question: “Is it really a good illusion if it doesn't accidentally start a bar fight?” Key Takeaways: Character death matters—especially when caused by a flaming imaginary bridge. Optimization tips: Use bolas. No, seriously. They're hilarious and effective. Chipmunks are rare because squirrels have anger issues. Illusions are not just for mischief—they can dramatically shift combat and story if used (and ruled) well. Phantasms can cause real damage... and even real friendship-ending debates. DMs need to balance illusions to avoid turning a boss fight into a Scooby-Doo episode. Pathfinder 2e provides more clarity on disbelieving illusions than 5e, which mostly says "good luck, champ." Disguises are not illusions, but they can lead to awkward social interactions at royal balls. Illusions can enhance roleplay, story arcs, and character drama—but they need DM discretion. Session zero is a great place to ask, “How weird can my illusions get before the game breaks?” Improvisation is key: Illusions don't always follow the script. Neither should the DM. Muppet recasting of Tolkien characters is an important use of podcast time. Kermit as Frodo. Fozzie as Gandalf. Sam remains unchanged. Materias in Final Fantasy are weird, wild, and somehow relevant to this conversation. Illusions shouldn't ruin the fun—just complicate it in hilarious and meaningful ways. Players rarely remember to ‘study' illusions, so DMs must choose whether to be kind... or let them walk face-first into the dragon's tail. Game mechanics are weird, but that's half the fun. Communication is everything—especially when you're lying to your DM with a straight face.
In this enlightening episode, we delve into the concept of life as a construct, encouraging listeners to find peace amid the chaos of modern society. We explore the rapid passage of time, the reality of long COVID, and provide a preview of an upcoming in-depth discussion on this pervasive issue. Our conversation expands to the evolving job market, where personal branding is becoming essential for employment, and delves into the fear and promises of artificial intelligence. The episode challenges the narrative around AI, emphasizing the importance of ethical guidelines and the dismissal of fear-mongering tactics. Listeners are urged to question conventional wisdom, emphasize personal research, and embrace life's unpredictability. Focusing on self-awareness and small pleasures, this episode offers a grounding perspective on achieving happiness in an ever-changing world. Podcast Website: https://www.blualchemistpodcast.com Siquoyia Blue Website: https://siquoyiablue.komi.io YouTube: @blualchemistpodcast Dating Assassins Card Game: https://www.datingassassins.com If you want to either be a guest on or find guests for your podcast, please sign up here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/siquoyia Donate via Cashapp: @KingSiquoyia or Venmo: @KingShay Thanks for listening! Subscribe, Share and Follow us!
Ute Lemper is an internationally celebrated German singer and actress. She first gained international acclaim playing Sally Bowles in Cabaret in Paris, a performance that earned her the Molière Award for Best Newcomer. She went on to star as Velma Kelly in Chicago in both the West End and on Broadway, winning the Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical and a Theatre World Award. Her early career also included key roles in Cats in Vienna and Peter Pan and The Blue Angel in Berlin. Ute has become an international cabaret icon, renowned for her interpretations of Kurt Weill, Marlene Dietrich, Édith Piaf, and Astor Piazzolla. She has performed at prestigious venues such as La Scala, Lincoln Center, and the Sydney Opera House. Her recording career includes over 30 albums, with standout projects like Ute Lemper Sings Kurt Weill, Illusions, and Punishing Kiss, featuring songs by Elvis Costello, Tom Waits, and Nick Cave. She was named Billboard's Crossover Artist of the Year in 1993/94. Her film work includes notable roles in L'Autrichienne as Marie Antoinette, Peter Greenaway's Prospero's Books, and Prêt-à-Porter. She also provided the German voice for Ariel in Disney's The Little Mermaid and Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame. With multiple Grammy nominations and a ballet created for her by Maurice Béjart, Ute Lemper remains one of the most dynamic and influential performers of her generation .Ute Lemper is our guest in episode 499 of My Time Capsule and chats to Michael Fenton Stevens about the five things she'd like to put in a time capsule; four she'd like to preserve and one she'd like to bury and never have to think about again .For Ute Lemper's concert dates and tickets, music and videos, visit - https://www.utelemper.comFollow Ute Lemper on Instagram: @utelemperFollow My Time Capsule on Instagram: @mytimecapsulepodcast & Twitter/X & Facebook: @MyTCpod .Follow Michael Fenton Stevens on Twitter/X: @fentonstevens & Instagram @mikefentonstevens .Produced and edited by John Fenton-Stevens for Cast Off Productions .Music by Pass The Peas Music .Artwork by matthewboxall.com .This podcast is proud to be associated with the charity Viva! Providing theatrical opportunities for hundreds of young people . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, we weaponize hallucinations, traumatize NPCs, and gaslight a guard dog—with illusions! Sure! Here's a funny and detailed set of show notes and key takeaways for the RPGBOT.Podcast episode titled: Show Notes: In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, the gang goes full David Copperfield on your tabletop—except instead of sawing a lady in half, we're casting Phantasmal Force to convince the BBEG his pants are full of bees. Join Tyler, Ash, and Randall as they pull back the illusory curtain on deception magic and reveal the crunchy mechanics, chaotic strategies, and absolute tomfoolery you can unleash with illusion spells. Ever wonder how to make your players paranoid, your monsters confused, or your DM cry? Illusions are the Swiss Army knife of arcane nonsense, and this episode dives deep into the art of trickery. From classic misdirection to full-on psychic warfare, they explore the delicious line between “that's clever” and “that's not how the spell works.” And yes, we finally solve the age-old question: how does a low-INT dog sniff out the fake chicken? Spoiler: it involves a lot of arguing about the Investigation check. Key Takeaways: Illusions Are a Vibe, Not a Science: If it makes the GM squint at the rules, you're doing it right. "The Mind Believes It, So the Body Reacts": Phantasmal Force can't do real damage, but the psychic trauma of imaginary bees is very real. Silent Image Is the MVP: It's like Photoshop, but for breaking dungeon puzzles. Major Image = Major Problems: When in doubt, summon a dragon and walk away like it was someone else's idea. Smarter Creatures Are More Likely to Disbelieve... Or Overthink: That wizard didn't fail his save, he just really wanted the dragon to be real. Your Dog Is Meta-Gaming: If Fido's making Investigation checks, it's time to ask who's really running the campaign. The Best Illusion is the One You Don't Have to Explain: If they never touch the wall, they'll never know it's fake. Don't Use Illusions to Solve Every Problem: Actually, never mind. Do exactly that. Forever. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati
Episode Notes In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami challenge the modern obsession with optimization and explore why our drive to perfect every aspect of life might be holding us back. Through personal examples and candid discussion, they examine how embracing adaptability over constant optimization could lead to greater fulfillment and creativity.
What if the barriers we face aren't as solid as they seem? In this episode of Learn How to See Better, host Drew Davis explores the powerful idea that fear often masquerades as reality, distorting our perception and blocking our progress. Through personal insights and thoughtful reflection, he'll challenge the notion of “obstacles” and uncover how many of them are simply illusions shaped by doubt, conditioning, and fear. Tune in to shift your perspective — and maybe, finally push through that wall!
This episode, Kalid and Joe hop into the world of magic, illusions and Clive Barker! We're chatting about the 1995 horror flick, Lord of Illusions!*Thank you to Jim Hall for the music! Check out more of his music here, and if you like what you hear, please consider donating to support his work here!*Thank you to Jim Tandberg for the Frankenstein's Podcast artwork!*Shoutout to our Patreon Producer(s), Luke Johnson, Andy Groth, Jake Kohl & Joe Mischo!Support us on Patreon!References:
What if the expiration date on your current life isn't a dead end—but an invitation to reinvent yourself? In this inspiring, high-energy episode, Anne Bonney chats with Ken Hartley www.kenhartley.com award-winning speaker, singer, and corporate magician, about his wild and courageous career pivot at 50 years old. After 36 years leading music ministries, Ken walked away from everything stable and familiar to chase a completely different dream—and he didn't just pivot; he pulled a full-on magic trick on his career and life.From secret childhood magic shows to rocking stages as an inspirational illusionist, Ken shares how he turned fear into fuel and rejection into redirection. His story will challenge everything you think you know about leadership, reinvention, and what it really takes to chase a dream at any age. In this episode, you'll discover:Why courage isn't about fearlessness—it's about movement despite the fear How true leaders speak their team's "language" to create belonging and connection (and why outdated leadership styles fail) The human-ness of personal reinvention—and how it can connect you to others If you're standing at a crossroads (or just need a little push to dream bigger), Ken's story is your sign. Press play and prepare to be inspired—and maybe pull a little magic into your own life too.Indiana Jones clip Ken mentions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-JIfjNnnMAWant more from Ken?www.kenhartley.comwww.linkedin.com/in/ken-hartley/www.facebook.com/kenhartleyspeakingKen Hartley is a CSP® (Certified Speaking Professional) with the National Speakers Association, a Certified Leader with the John Maxwell Team, and a Certified expert in DISC. He is also a recipient of the Merlin Award from the International Magicians Society for "Corporate Inspirational Magician of the Year” for 2024.He exists to empower you see past the illusions of leadership and communication so you can become the authentic leaders others want to follow.
Overcoming the Lightweaver Monastery -- FN Episode 251
When something looks so promising—so beautiful, so exciting—you think, this has to be it… but in the end, it leaves you empty. That's what it means to live in the shadows - the imitations we chase: reflections that mimic the real thing, but have no substance. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha conclude the wild and painfully relatable story of King Purūravā and Urvaśī from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, and share a bit about their own heartbreaks too. From noble warrior to emotional wreck, Purūravā's obsession leads him to whimper before goddesses, trying to win back a woman who ghosted him in the most cosmic way. Key Highlights: • Reflections, shadows, and AI girlfriends: welcome to Purūravā's downward spiral • When spiritual practice becomes just another form of escapism • Kaustubha, Raghunath, and Mara share their heartbreak stories
Brea and Mallory talk about their most anticipated books for May and June! Plus, they give out book hangover cures. Email us at readingglassespodcast at gmail dot com!Reading Glasses MerchRecommendations StoreSponsors -Clarion West Steamy in Seattlewww.clarionwest.orgAncient Nutritionwww.ancientnutrition.com/GLASSESLinks -Reading Glasses Facebook GroupReading Glasses Goodreads GroupAmazon Wish ListNewsletterLibro.fmTo join our Discord channel, email us proof of your Reading-Glasses-supporting Maximum Fun membership!www.maximumfun.org/joinStack the ShelvesSpring ReadathonMay 18th!Books Mentioned - The Day the World Stopped Shopping by J.B. MacKinnonWhy I Love Horror edited by Becky SpratfordMayDecolonizing Language by Ngugi W. Thiong'oNonfiction, modern African literature, post colonial literary criticismAnd the Trees Stare Back by Gigi GriffisYA horror, Soviet Russia, historical, “came back wrong”Eliza, from Scratch by Sophia Lee - YA rom-com, cooking, high school, Korean foodThe Lost Queen by Aimee Phan - YA fantasy, magic, sisters, Vietnamese lore, past livesTitan of the Stars by E.K. Johnson - YA sci fi horror, space, aliens, Mars, trapped on a spaceshipDeath in the Cards by Mia P. Manansala - YA mystery, tarot, teen detective, vanished girlYou and Me on Repeat by Mary Shyne - YA rom-com graphic novel, time loop, friendshipHome Has No Borders by Sona Charaipotra and Samira Ahmed - Short story collection, YA, South Asian writersThe Original Daughter by Jemimah Wei - Historical fiction, Singapore, family saga, sistersMy Name is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende - Historical fiction, 19 century, Chile, San Francisco, female writer sent to cover civil warThe Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong - Literary fiction, chosen family, friendship between elderly woman and the young man she savesMy Friends by Fredrick Backman - Literary fiction, 25 year saga about four friends in a seaside townThe Tenant by Freida McFadden - Thriller, man rents a room to a woman who is not what she seemsThe Man Made of Smoke by Alex North - Thriller, serial killer, criminal profiler solving case he survived as a childThe Incandescent by Emily Tesh - Fantasy, dark academia, sapphic romanceAftertaste by Daria Lavelle - Urban fantasy, NYC, chef who can taste ghostsAwake in the Floating City by Susanna KwanSci fi, eco-fiction, flooding, artist bonding with elderly woman who remembers the city's historyThe Memory Collectors by Dete Meserve - Sci fi, mystery, technology that lets you visit the most pivotal moment of your life for one hourThe Starving Saints by Caitlin Starling - Historical horror, sapphic erotica, cannibals, medieval, surrealNever Flinch by Stephen King - Horror, next Holly bookCan't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan - Third in Skyland seriesThe Love Haters by Katherine CenterContemporary romance, swimming, cynicism, Key WestThe Knight and the Moth by Rachel GilligRomantasy, divination magic, gothic, hot knightA Fate Forged in Fire by Hazel McBrideRomantasy, Celtic inspired, magic, dragon riding, hot princeBad Friend: How Women Revolutionized Modern Friendship by Tiffany Watt SmithNonfictionMark Twain by Ron ChernowNonfictionImmaculate Conception by Ling Ling Huang - Literary horror, friendship, technology that enhances empathyForest Euphoria by Patricia Ononiwu Kaishian - Nonfiction, queerness in wildlife and natureFake Work: How I Began to Suspect Capitalism is a Joke by Leigh Claire la Berge - NonfictionSo Many Stars: an Oral History of Trans, Nonbinary, Genderqueer, and Two-Spirit People of Color by Caro de RobertisNonfictionDisappoint Me by Nicola DinanLiterary fiction, trans protagonist, love, betrayal, “allure of bougie domesticity”And They Were Roommates by Page Powars - Queer YA romance, trans protagonist, boarding schoolGay the Pray Away by Natalie NaudusQueer YA romance, cult, small town, secret loveSummertime by Yigit Karaahmet, translated by Nicholas GlastonburyQueer thriller, Turkey, “the Birdcage but by Patricia Highsmith”When Devils Sing by Xan KaurYA horror, Southern gothic, small town, vanished teenOf Earthly Delights by Goldy MoldavskyYA horroromance, contemporary gothic, family secrets, mysterious gardenRun for the Hills by Kevin Wilson - Literary fiction, funny, family road tripGingko Season by Naomi Xu Elegant - Literary fiction, finding yourself after a heartbreak, friendshipThe South by Tash AwGay literary fiction, family, summer, small town, secret loveThe Grimoire Grammar School Parent Teacher Association by Caitlin Rozakis - Cozy fantasy, magic school in New England, werewolf protagonistJuneThe Mercy Makers by Tessa Gratton - Romantasy, forbidden love, forbidden magic, political intrigueA Far Better Thing by H.G. Parry - Fantasy, fairy revenge, historical, French revolutionA Treachery of Swans by A.B. Poranek - Queer YA fantasy, sapphic Swan Lake retellingA Magic Deep and Drowning by Hester Fox - Historical romantasy, Dutch Golden Age, Little Mermaid retellingBury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab - Queer spec fic, immortality, romanceWearing the Lion by John Wiswell - Historical fantasy, Hercules retelling, funny and sweetI Think I'm in Love with an Alien by Ann Aguirre - Romantiscifi, space, rom-comThe Ghosts of Gwendolyn Montgomery by Clarence A. Haynes - Queer fantasy, ghosts, funny, magical pastThe Lady, The Tiger, and the Girl Who Loved Death by Helen Marshall - Fantasy, circus, mystery, dark magic, revengeThe Palace of Illusions by Rowena Miller - Historical fantasy, Paris, 1900s World's Fair, magical clockmakerThe Potency of Ungovernable Impulses by Malka Older - Sapphic cozy space mystery, third in seriesA Girl Walks into the Forest by Madeleine Roux - Fantasy, journey through evil forest, monstersThe Beautiful Maddening by Shea Ernshaw - YA contemporary romantasy, family love curse, magic tulipsThe Phoenix Pencil Company by Allison King - Queer fantasy, magic, memories contained in pencils, lost connections across time and spaceCosmic Love at the Multiverse Hair Salon by Annie MareQueer romantiscifi, sapphic, two women in different worlds trying to find the right timeline to be togetherMeet Me at the Crossroads by Megan Giddings - Sci fi, mysterious doors to new worlds, sistersBest of all Worlds by Kenneth OppelYA spec fi thriller, survival storyThe Two Lives of Faven Sythe by Megan O'Keefe - Sci fi, missing person search uncovers galaxy-wide conspiracy, space operaPearly Gates by Bonnie Solomon - Queer cozy funny fantasy, drag queen protagonist in after life, found familyEcstasy by Ivy Pochoda - Horror, Greek tragedy retelling, female empowermentStrange Houses by Uketsu, translated by Jim RionJapanese mystery horror, disturbing architectureThis Princess Kills Monsters by Ry Herman - Queer fantasy, high fantasy, magic princess on a quest, fairytale satireWork Nights by Erica Peplin - Queer literary fiction, young woman in love triangle, NYCGirls Girls Girls by Shoshana von BlanckenseeQueer Jewish new adult literary fiction, 1990s road trip from NYC to San FranciscoThese Heathens by Mia McKenzieQueer new adult historical fiction, 1960s Atlanta, queer Black community, civil rights movementIf I Told You I'd Have to Kiss You by Mae Marvel - Sapphic romance, if Mr. and Ms. Smith was gayOrdinary Love by Marie Rutkoski - Queer literary fiction, bisexual protagonist, woman risking it all for a second chance at first loveA Rare Find by Joanna Lowell - Sapphic historical romance, archaeologist teaming up with childhood enemyReady to Score by Jodie Slaughter - Sapphic contemporary romance, spicy, small town, Texas footballIt's Not the End of the World by Jonathan Parks-RamageCli-fi thriller, queer, family saga, near future sci fiWhat is Queer Food? How We Served a Revolution by John BirdsallNonfictionEl Dorado Drive by Megan Abbott - Thriller, all woman pyramid scheme, Detroit, crime, female friendship, powerThe Dark Library by Mary Anna EvansGothic historical thriller, family secrets, dark academiaThe Farmhouse by Chelsea Conradt - Horror, family moves to a creepy house in the middle of nowhere, corn!!!!!Worth Fighting For by Jesse Q. Sutanto - Mulan reimagined as a contemporary romanceSomeone Knows by Vi Keeland - Thriller, sexy, English professor has a dark past come back to haunt her, murder, affairThe Compound by Aisling Rawle - Dystopian thriller, Lord of the Flies meets Love Island, reality TVBattle of the Bookstores by Ali BradyContemporary romance, rivalry between two managers at the same bookstoreMurder Takes a Vacation by Laura LippmanCozy mystery, murder on a Parisian river cruiseThe Poppy Fields by Nikki ErlickSpec fic, what if there was a scientific cure for heartbreakKing of Ashes by S.A. CosbyCrime thriller, family drama, Southern, inspired by The GodfatherThe Listeners by Maggie Stiefvater - Historical romantasy, 1940s Appalachia, luxury hotel, magicWith a Vengeance by Riley SagerHistorical horror, trains, murder, 1940s midwest AmericaThe Primal of Blood and Bone by Jennifer L. ArmentroutSixth in the Blood and Ash seriesAtmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid - Historical romance, 1980s, NASA, astronautsThe Dry Season by Melissa Febos - Celibacy memoir