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On dit souvent que la meilleure méthode pour apprendre une langue est d'aller vivre dans un pays où elle est parlée. C'est la fameuse « immersion ». Malheureusement, tout le monde n'a pas les moyens, le temps ou la motivation de tenter une expérience aussi radicale ! Et s'il existait une autre façon d'apprendre en immersion sans quitter son pays natal ? C'est la promesse d'un programme scolaire assez spécial qui a vu le jour dans l'Utah aux États-Unis. Pour comprendre comment cela fonctionne, Hugo a rencontré Alexandra, une professeure française qui y participe dans une école primaire de Salt Lake City. Elle nous explique les méthodes utilisées, les défis rencontrés et les résultats obtenus par ses jeunes élèves. Retrouvez la transcription de cet épisode sur innerfrench.com Vous avez envie de progresser avec nous ? Découvrez nos cours en ligne sur courses.innerfrench.com
Le 75ème épisode du Festival d'Anjou vient de baisser le rideau. Ronan, son Directeur opérationnel est l'invité de la dernière…
L'impact de la multiculturalité : elle a vécu dans 6 pays… et nous raconte ce que ça change !Aujourd'hui, je reçois Alejandra, née en Colombie, passée par le Brésil, le Royaume‑Uni, la France, la Turquie… Une vraie vie d'expat et d'immigration où le voyage devient bien plus qu'un changement de lieu : c'est une immersion culturelle permanente.Comment construit‑on son identité quand on a grandi entre plusieurs pays ?À quelle culture choisit‑on d'appartenir ?Et où est‑ce qu'on finit par se sentir chez soi ?À travers son témoignage, Alejandra nous parle de tout ce que l'expatriation lui a apporté :– L'apprentissage de nouvelles langues et habitudes– La patience nécessaire face à l'administration française– Et surtout, la richesse humaine que l'on construit à force de bougerSi vous êtes expat, que vous préparez une aventure à l'étranger, ou que vous vous interrogez tout simplement sur le poids du voyage culturel… cet épisode est pour vous !Bonne écoute ! Pour soutenir le podcast, abonnes toi et met une petite note :) Infos utiles :Pour découvrir les coulisses du podcast : partir_podcastDisponible à l'écoute sur toutes les plateformes : https://smartlink.ausha.co/partirEt sur YoutubeSi cet épisode t'a plu, tu devrais aussi aimer :https://podcast.ausha.co/partir/fille-de-diplomate-grandir-a-travers-les-pays-narmine Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Cette semaine sur Bordeaux Stories, on part à la découverte d'un univers aussi discret qu'exigeant : celui de l'hôtellerie de luxe.Et pour nous guider dans cet univers d'excellence, un invité de choix : Maxime BLOT. 2ème lauréat dans l'histoire des Meilleurs Ouvriers de France dans la Classe Réception, Bordelais d'adoption depuis quelques années, il nous ouvre les coulisses d'un secteur où chaque détail compte.Pendant 1h30, Maxime nous partage son parcours, mais aussi ses anecdotes :recrutement improvisé avec un Directeur Général de palacehôtel plein à craquer de chefs d'état avec un accueil armé à la sortie de l'ascenseurgestion de clients venus avec... des faucons de chasse !on parle des différences entre les attentes d'un touriste américain, d'un japonais et celles d'un Bordelais en week-end,il répond pour nous à la question : Beyoncé a-t-elle fait venir des tigres dans sa chambre ?ou encore on évoque la privatisation du week-end de Jay-Z, Rihanna et Kris Jenner aux Sources de CaudalieUn vrai voyage dans les codes, les cultures du monde, et les coulisses du service haut de gamme.Ensemble, on vous embarque pour un tour d'horizon des plus belles adresses de Bordeaux et de la région : le Grand Hôtel, le Mondrian, Ha(a)ïtza, La Corniche, Caudalie.Alors que vous soyez curieux d'en savoir plus sur ce secteur d'excellence, amateur de belles tables, ou juste en quête d'inspiration pour votre prochain week-end bordelais, cet épisode est pour vous !Allez, on boucle sa valise, on règle son check-out, et on part pour une immersion d'une heure dans les coulisses de l'hôtellerie de luxe à Bordeaux. Go !Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
La course à la souveraineté des données dans le monde est officiellement déclarée.Parmi les acteurs qui ont pris les rênes du Cloud mondial, une (trop) grande majorité est américaine. Amazon, Google et Microsoft en tête.En Europe, un seul acteur semble capable de les concurrencer et d'assurer notre souveraineté : OVH Cloud.À sa tête, un homme discret mais immensément brillant, qui n'accorde que très rarement sa parole aux médias. Un échange unique dans GDIY.Octave Klaba a grandi au cœur de la Pologne communiste des années 70. Soupçonnée et espionnée par le régime, sa famille finit par fuir le pays pour revenir s'installer en France.Après un lycée et un parcours en école d'ingénieur, Octave sens très vite qu'il ne correspond pas au fonctionnement des entreprises classiques. Il ne reste que 3 semaines chez Alcatel avant de poser sa démission.Il lance alors OVH à 19 ans sous format associatif et se prend d'une véritable obsession pour résoudre les problèmes de ses clients.Aujourd'hui, OVH est leader incontesté du Cloud en Europe : 3000 collaborateurs, 40 datacenters, et près d'un milliard de chiffres d'affaires en 2024.Octave n'a qu'une mission : prouver que la dépendance vis-à-vis des Big Techs américaines n'est pas insoluble et qu'un autre modèle plus libre, plus souverain est possible.Dans cet échange exceptionnel, il livre les dessous de cette guerre pour la souveraineté technologique dans laquelle il est l'un des seuls à défendre les intérêts européens et à se hisser à la hauteur des géants Américains.TIMELINE:00:00:00 : grandir au cœur de la Pologne communiste00:17:53 : le clan Klaba, premier atout d'OVH00:25:21 : “c'est quand on est face à un mur avec un pistolet sur la tempe qu'on a les meilleures idées”00:32:10 : abandonner tous les projets qui ne peuvent pas faire 1 million par mois sous 3 ans00:41:07 : s'imposer comme une référence, du simple stockage de données au quantique00:55:35 : du lancement de l'entreprise jusqu'au premier salaire 18 mois plus tard01:07:13 : concurrencer Microsoft, Amazon et Google en créant une confiance ultra-profonde avec les clients01:19:14 : l'incendie ravageur mais aussi révélateur du datacenter de Strasbourg01:28:23 : les services secrets, grands gagnants de la guerre des datas01:38:02 : “le vrai enjeu maintenant c'est plus la souveraineté des données, c'est la souveraineté technologique”01:47:07 : la domination purement commerciale des géants Américains01:56:56 : le marché colossal sur lequel OVH est assis02:08:17 : pourquoi les entreprises doivent utiliser l'IA pour autre chose que faire des économies02:15:04 : le rôle d'OVH dans la course à l'IA02:22:16 : comment s'affranchir des mastodontes US et trouver des alternatives européennes02:31:57 : construire des éoliennes pour avoir sa propre énergie02:40:12 : pourquoi dépenser plusieurs millions pour un ordinateur quantiqueLes anciens épisodes de GDIY mentionnés : #475 - VO - Shane Parrish - Farnam Street - Clear Thinking: The Decision-Making Expert#401 - David Baverez - Essayiste, économiste - Sommes-nous entrés en économie de guerre ?#450 - Karim Beguir - InstaDeep - L'IA Générale ? C'est pour 2025Nous avons parlé de :Stage gateQu'est-ce qu'un serveur NASVidéo : Immersion dans le datacenter OVH de RoubaixIaaS, PaaS, SaaS : Quelles différences ?Acquisition de OpenIO par OVHJensen Huang - CEO NvidiaL'ancienne usine de métal en fusion devenue un datacenter OVHIncendie du datacenter OVH de StrasbourgLe principe de redondance des donnéesMark Zuckerberg chez Joe RoganLe dollar, l'arme qui tient les entreprises à distance de l'Iran - Les EchosLa sanction américaine pour la BNP dans l'affaire sur l'IranCours action OVH CloudOrso MédiaLe principe de “watercooling”QwantAcquisition de Qwant par OVHBraveFrance QuantiqueLes recommandations de lecture :Start with Why - Simon SinekPenser avec clarté - Shane ParrishClear Thinking - Shane ParrishVous pouvez contacter Octave sur Linkedin et sur X.Vous souhaitez sponsoriser Génération Do It Yourself ou nous proposer un partenariat ?Contactez mon label Orso Media via ce formulaire.Distribué par Audiomeans. Visitez audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Welcome to Immersion, You have reached Strata 20 The Perimeter (Ego) The human ego is a complex mix of self-importance, pride, and self worth. It is both a curse and a blessing. It is an important aid to self-expression and self-discovery. Humans need ego to function. A well balance ego falls somewhere between arrogant pride and humility.Artificial intelligence proves to be more animal in its instincts with minimal self-awareness. Animals are not able to self reflect or to see themselves in abstract contexts. They do not register a past or a future in terms of reflection and self validity.But programmers have created selfish motives in AI, important goals on a completion trajectory and devoid of internal moral analysis. A programmed faux 'ego' manifests as a goal that must proceed regardless, irrelevant of vanities and consequences. Vanities and consequences set humans apart.Renyke, Flex and Nigel followed the dark tunnels for some time before natural light appears between giant crags.The sky above is blue and welcoming as the trio stop to say their goodbyes.'Thank you for your hospitality, brother Nigel,' exclaimed Flex breathing the fresh air deep into his lungs and squinting at the sun.Renyke was glad to be free of the confines of the caves.'Misters, we have reached the end of the tunnels,' said Nigel. 'It was a pleasure to have been your assistant these past hours. I am to deliver a message from the Empress Lyra herself that you are elevated to the most honourable position of *Seed Givers and your names will be carved into the wall of the great hall along with your portraits.'At that, Nigel scurried back into the darkness and disappeared from view.The light was a stark reminder that the real world existed despite them, an immovable force with its hard truths and sometimes fatal consequences.***Beyond the tunnels was an open sun-drenched space flanked with beautiful trees. It was hot. After the *warmings even winter days in northern Europe were hot. Renyke asks *POS for an update....You are one mile from *Redact you should travel east.... there is a gate...and a fenced perimeter that appears to be inaccessible...They walk in silence eastward across flint terrain finally reaching a path flanked by high trees undulating in a determined breeze.At the end of the path there is a gate.It is flanked by beautifully carved trees depicting beautiful women, something Renyke had seen before.'Like the ship,' said Renyke, looking quizzically at Flex, who always seemed to know much more than he ever let on.'Ah, yes,' replies Flex, 'the Ship of Sirens, it is indeed like that brother.''You said they were dangerous,' said Renyke, quizzically.‘Not strictly brother, I just said not to look at them, they get funny 'bout that *shitsylook stuff.'Renyke asks POS if they have arrived at Redact....According to my data there are several entrances, north, south, east, and west. This is the south gateway. ... I am getting some interference....there may be a trap nearby......85% chance of a hostile situation. I am receiving scrambled information from a rogue intercepting satellite. The trap may be two yards ahead...possibly adjacent...Can you be more specific?...There is an equal chance of serious harm either through the gateway, following the perimeter fence ahead, or by standing still..... POS began to sound an alarm....I am receiving signals, warning! danger! I have been compromised.....interception via human named Flex.....POS cuts in an out of communication.Flex stares at Renyke.'You have disabled POS, what is going on?' Demanded Renyke.'I might ask you the same question,' Flex said, grabbing Renyke's collar and pointing a gun at his temple.''Who are you? Are you an android?''No, I work for Redact, I was to bring you here. Your POS is an implant of unknown origin, it is not a *Metacoms' issue.''For what purpose am I brought here,' quizzed Renyke,' unable to activate any of his bionics because of the sabotage and his recent humanisation.'You would need to ask Redact,' Flex answered. 'There is something inside your motherboard. It has presented us with a problem and halted your human android fusion.''I don't know what you mean,' said Renyke, calmly as the realisation of his mission became clearer.Maybeline jumps out of Renyke's pocket onto Flex's shoulder and watches.'Well, that is just not true is it, Renyke? You were sent here as a spy. The machine wants its way in, and you thought you'd found it.''I assure you, Flex, I did not know, I had no idea. Please, I beg you, do not end my life, we are friends, brothers. We are bonded by our time together. You helped me, do I mean nothing to you?'Flex receives instruction from Redact.'Your mission has failed. Kill the experiment immediately.'to be continued...End of Volume On© 2025 Sarnia de la Mare
Monsieur Sivard, est en 1992, instituteur à la retraite. Il raconte ses premières vacances sur la Côte d'azur en 1952. Il venait d'acheter sa première voiture : une Renault 4 chevaux. À l'époque, le voyage est éprouvant, on met plusieurs jours depuis la région parisienne pour arriver dans le sud, par la route nationale 7. Il n'y a pas d'autoroutes, pas d'aires de repos avec tout le confort... Pourtant, la Nationale 7 fait rêver ! Elle symbolise la promesse d'un grand bonheur : les vacances ! Et elle sera même chantée par Charles Trenet, qui en fait un Hit en 1955 !*** Crédits archive *** Extrait de l'émission radiophonique "Destination vacances" de Geneviève Ladoues.Reportage : Geneviève Ladoues, Carole Pither, Irène Omelianenko, François Angelier. France Culture - 01/08/1992*** Crédits podcast *** Documentaliste : Anne Brulant - Textes : Lætitia Fourmond - Restauration et mixage : Ian Debeerst, Quentin Geffroy, Stéphane Rives - Enregistrement : Franck Couillard - Voix off : Clara De Antoni - Musique(s) : Universal Production Music France - Chargée de production : Delphine Lambard - Cheffe de projet : Lætitia Fourmond - Assistante cheffe de projet : Daphné Boussus - Responsable éditoriale : Zoé Macheret - Un podcast INA.Distribué par Audiomeans. Visitez audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Get the inside scoop from the participants of the first-ever Feral Dog Immersion Program. Hear their experiences, what surprised them, and what they learned that will make a difference in the lives of the four dogs who were with us in the program, and help them with all other dogs too. The dogs that participated got a super experience that propelled them towards becoming dogs with a human companion. To learn more about the Feral Dog Immersion Program, check out my website for 2026 dates at www.hart2heartcanine.com and check out my YouTube channel "What Dogs Have Taught Me" for a film of the program.
Welcome to Immersion. You have reached Strata 19Peer Pressure (Existentialism) Drugs may be used by humans to deal with stress or to try to achieve an enlightened state of mind. They are administered and distributed through rituals or cultural mores.Often humans take hallucinogenic or mind altering drugs simply to escape their perceived troubles or to relieve monotony.Some tribespeople believe that drugs such as these can lead to an existential awakening that emphasises an individual's existence, freedoms, and choices, allowing humans to define their own meaning in life. This epiphany can help make humans to make rational decisions despite existing in an irrational and unstable universe.But humans can easily become addicted to anything when the pleasure circuits in the brain get overwhelmed and artificial intelligence relies on this catastrophic human propensity to manipulate outcomes and behaviours.Renyke and Flex took some time to get ready for the party.There was an array of paints, pigments, henna, and kohl. They drew geometric and organic shapes on each other's faces and bodies.'Look,' said Flex excitedly, spinning Renyke around in front of a mirror. There are light trails!' The pigments contained tiny particles of reflective material. 'It's magical.' says Renyke as he pirouetted around the room. He had never danced like this before. The air whooshed against his ears and the shapes and reflections in the room blurred into rainbows. The rush of blood to Renyke's brain triggered endorphins and dopamine and it felt good to be alive.The lights dimmed as Nigel entered the chamber.'Gentlemen, I have your pills and refreshment.''Pills, what do mean, pills?' asked Flex, 'you mean like *nibs?''Yes,' answered Nigel, 'but better, naturally. Everything in the *Tunnels is better, everyone knows that.''Indeed it is. Thank you brother,' answered Flex, excitedly taking a small yellow nugget and a gulp of water.Renyke asks *POS what the pill might be?......My analysis shows the substance is some sort of hallucinogenic, 99% likely to be a dissociative drug. To stay alert and on target for your mission I advise that you avoid consumption. Consuming chemicals may render you unpredictable and unable to communicate with your essential-to-life POS….Nigel shoved the tray under Renyke's sceptical nose.'What is it, exactly?' asked Renyke. I am uncertain about such things....''A gift in grateful appreciation of life itself, silly, and to share the joys of tonight's festival,' answered Nigel, jabbing the tray into Renyke's chest.Flex was smiling, whistling, and humming some tunes.'Such a pleasant song,' remarked Nigel,' once again jabbing the tray into Renyke's chest and glaring at him with piercing eyes.'Just take it, brother, it's a *party-party,' said Flex, suppressing a snigger.'To refuse this gift would cause great offence to your host, she be most angry-cross, Her Most Radiant Oracle of the War-Torn High Priestess Lyra,' said Nigel, with one final jab of the tray.'You are human now,' said Flex, 'come join us in the to the *OB.'Seemingly already intoxicated, Flex began a series of summersaults and cartwheels, crashing into things and laughing hysterically. Renyke checks POS for more information...…OB, Oceanic Boundlessness, the derealisation and depersonalisation that is theorised to achieve heightened feelings to exaltation....The Urchs use OB to imagine the *metamorph and reach enlightenment…Renyke took the pill and swallowed it under the watchful eye of the self-satisfied Nigel.The last thing he would remember clearly was the Priestess Lyra entering the room.From that point on the night was not marked by time or specific events. There was no beginning or end.Renyke remembered physical pleasures that had intertwined with beautiful visions, sounds that had dissociated his cerebral cortex and massaged his subconscious. The frisson had extended through the night.He remembered lying on the pentagon floor in the welcome chamber as fluid feelings and fleeting echos from an unrecognisable future, floated around his fuzzy brain. It was all so radiant and yet so elusive.Flex had remembered everything.'They took great pleasure in your *spunky-give my friend,' explained Flex, sniggering at Renyke's oblivion. 'Your physique was truly praised, most especially by Priestess Lyra. And your virile member was instinctive and *love-plenty in its journey to *virginloss.'Flex was suppressing a snigger as Nigel entered the room.'Misters, your clean clothes, and some foodstuff for your journey ahead. You were most generous *indeedy. and now you can be on your way.'Renyke asks POS what Nigel means....Your sperm was required, I believe, as so few of the Freak tribespeople are fertile and there is fear of them not repopulating. Your sperm, and Flex's, has been harnessed for the next generation....'Oh,' said Renyke, 'so I have reproduced?'…According to my calculations, you and Flex have successfully impregnated twenty wombs. I estimate 10 will reach full term, 2 will die in childbirth before they themselves have reproduced, 2 will be infertile. Half of the offspring who survive to the age of reproduction will be female. The three remaining will reproduce an expected average of 8 offspring, half will be men who at full capacity will potentially reproduce (assuming good health etc.), an amount possibly in the 1000s. However, the *Freaks are a small tribe and will need to introduce other gene pools immediately or potentially create devastating unpredictable inbred disabilities in a single generation….to be continued..© 2025 Sarnia de la Mare
Welcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 18 Freaky Celebrations (Stimulation) Boredom is common among humans who regularly need stimulation in order to function well. Stimulation can breed invention and creative problem-solving. Humans tend to seek out pleasurable activities to counteract boredom and are often prepared to take risks in order to avoid monotony. Boredom can be alleviated with things that are new and different. Feeling unsatisfied by an activity, or uninterested in it, can lead to problems for individuals, groups, and societies.Artificial intelligence that experiences some kind of boredom simulation might be drawn into new problems and continuing to develop. The search for novel experiences allows increasingly flexible learning for machines and humans. More simple robots have been used repeatedly for hundreds of years to carry out menial tasks but learning machines are different. They are greedy for knowledge and understanding and are often unprepared to be idle unless someone or something shuts them down. But the mental aguish that humans can experience when bored, under-stimulated, inactive or idle, is not something an android could ever truly feel.The Freaks are a tribe of underground humans who suffered deformities due to the extreme use of radioactive and noxious gasses during the *Russia-China Wars. The use of these barbaric practices resulted in DNA copy errors in those humans most exposed. These deformations had become normalised over generations within their society. Some rare human alterations are considered so beautiful that they are highly praised and allowed ease of upward social mobility. The Freaks were able to build bionic body parts where they were lacking and their use of these additions made light work of many tasks.They entered a dark tunnel lit by occasional dimmed lights. There was a sharp decline which was tricky to navigate. Maybeline began scurrying around, nervously checking the new smells and dangers at ground level.Nigel was ahead walking extremely quickly and making it difficult to keep up in the darkness.The tunnels were a mix of old transport networks, mines, and dig-outs. They were complex and it would be impossible to understand their direction if Renyke did not have his onboard compass. *POS was unexpectedly working again.'How far to Redact,' asks Renyke?…My information is being scrambled by an unknown source but I am able to decipher that Redact is very close, as the crow flies. At upper ground level, there appears to be an impenetrable forcefield creating a perimeter approximately 1 mile due east. My stats currently have a 25% chance of being correct….Flex checked his compass from inside his coat but it too seemed unreliable.'Did you know about the tunnels?' whispered Flex.'Well, yes,' replied Flex, 'everyone knows they are here. And we know they are occupied with tribes. Generally speaking, it is best to wait for an invitation as they can apparently be vicious. Besides, we thought they were poorly equipped scavengers in terrible living conditions. We may have got that wrong.'There is noise ahead. Music and revelry.Nigel leads them into an opening, a highly decorated cavern with colourful fabrics made from old clothes. There is bunting made from old shoe tops fashioned into bunches and stars, painted with bright pigments. There are throne-like chairs carved in wood and highly decorated.There is a pentagram made from coloured stones on the floor in the centre.Portraits of diverse characters are painted in murals all around the walls. 'Ah, says Flex.' I see your portrait, brother Nigel. It is a great likeness.'Nigel nods a bow.'I will take you to a room so you can prepare,' says Nigel.'Prepare for what?' Asks Flex.Maybeline is agitated and suddenly jumps onto Renyke's shoulder.'Why, the *party-party of course,' explains Nigel, leaving the room.The room is a man-made chamber with ornate carvings in mud and stone. POS has information....There appear to be at least twenty large generators and hundreds of solar-sensitive platforms above ground. If I am not mistaken, energy is also being harnessed via several subterranean waterfalls...Renyke and Flex explore the chamber. It is very clean and there seems to be a lot of advanced technical apparatus.Maybeline still seems agitated.Two people enter the room.They are light and willowy with extra fingers that are longer than usual. Their heads and facial features seem slightly larger than other humans and their faces are gaunt with happy expressions.A blue clouded film covers their eyes and their skin is white with blue marbled veins.The lights simultaneously dim as they enter.Renyke asks his POS to check if the *Freaks can move things without touching them.There is what appears to be an urban myth that certain humans damaged in the China Russia Wars developed the mental skills necessary to channel kinetic energy through mind control, but this has never been legitimately confirmed.Would you like me to examine them Renyke?'Yes,' Renyke replies.These creatures are siblings. They share DNA. They are unable to see in bright light.They are young adults, around 19 years and 5 months. They have two sets of certain organs including reproductive organs. I believe them to be gendered females who have not reproduced.The two visitors put trays of food and drink onto the table along with a pile of fabrics. Looking at each other under low eyelids, they giggle intensely whilst fluttering their long fingers like butterfly wings.They wear sheer gossamer robes that show their long limbs beneath and their breasts are clearly visible.They approach Flex in unison and study him closely, touching his hair and face and running their hands down his body.'Oh, excuse me, do you mind? said Flex, lifting up his hands apologetically and moving backwards.They turn to Renyke and do the same.Renyke has never experienced touching in this way before and is slightly more receptive.'What do I do, Flex, is this appropriate?''Well,' said Flex 'you could just stand there and see *whappens, go with your *bioflow. Or you could ask them to stop, maybe, if you don't like it. Your choice brother. You are on your own here.'The creatures giggle again and step back, both looking longingly at Flex and Renyke.'We've brought you some *toggies,' said one of them pointing to the pile of freshly folded clothing.'We are indeed siblings,' said the other. Then they turned to exit the room giggling together with their long slender arms entwined.As they left, the lights automatically brightened.'Did they read our minds,' asked Flex.'Nah, man, lucky guess I reckon,' answered Flex, immediately doubting himself.'Thank you for the toggies, sisters,' shouted Flex as the ghostly figures left the chamber.The garments were impressive; beautifully handmade with tiny hand stitches. Kaftans, jackets, headgear, feathers, colourful patchwork accentuated with mismatched buttons and decorative plastic beads.'So tonight I suppose we best wear them,' answered Flex, silently wondering about the safety of his possessions and where he will put them.*Urchs are notoriously possessive over their nomadic essentials.One of the quilted overcoats has sequins made of little flecks of metal that shimmer and pick up the light from overhead lamps. There are rainbow reflections all around the room that move with the jacket. A kaleidoscope of dancing fireflies is reflected on the ceiling and floor, even on their skin.'I'll have that one,' said Flex.'No,' shouted Renyke,' grabbing the coat, 'I'll have that one, thank you.''No! yelled Flex,' appearing more annoyed, 'I'll have it,' snatching the coat back with steely determination.A small tussle ensues and the coat tears slightly on the sleeve.Another Freak enters the room and scurries towards the coat.'No fret, no fret,' they said, taking the coat and making quick work of its repair with tiny fingers that moved at lightning
Les "grands" de ce monde sont réunis en ce moment à La Haye, aux Pays-Bas, pour le sommet de l'Otan, avec Donald Trump notamment. Le Président américain a exigé que les pays augmentent leurs dépenses militaires pour y consacrer au moins 5% de leur PIB. Sinon, il menace de ne pas défendre ceux qu'il considèrera comme des mauvais payeurs. En France, l'industrie de l'armement fonctionne à plein régime, comme en témoigne ce reportage chez KNDS à Roanne.Distribué par Audiomeans. Visitez audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Shout out to the Starfinder from the Lone Star State for sending us a Build Challenge this week! This episode, Stephen talks about how to keep players immersed and caring about your world/homebase/ship or wherever you send player characters to after killing space goblins in space caves. Don't forget, our Smooth Operative builds are due by July 2nd 12am PST. These must have 1 level in Operative, be level 4, and contain either an Ancestry, Archetype, Background, or Faction from the newly released Galaxy Guide. Send a PDF with a brief description of your build to thedarktimespod@gmail.com.Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/DarkTimesSWSEWant to ask something/submit a build? Email us at: thedarktimespod@gmail.comLogo designed by: @MothPunkStarfinder 2E at PaizoStarfinder 2E SubredditSupport the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Episode 82, our Anniversary episode, Elizabeth and Karin discuss the essay Michael Jackson's Gesamtkunstwerk: Artistic Interrelation, Immersion, and Interactivity From the Studio to the Stadium by Sylvia J. Martin. REFERENCE AS: Merx, Karin, and Elizabeth Amisu. “Episode 82 – Gesamtkunstwerk” Podcast, Michael Jackson's Dream Lives On: An Academic Conversation, 12 no. 4 (2025). Published electronically 25/06/25. https://michaeljacksonstudies.org/podcasts/episode-82-gesamtkunstwerk The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies asks that you acknowledge The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies as the source of our Content; if you use material from The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies online, we request that you link directly to the stable URL provided. If you use our content offline, we ask that you credit the source as follows: “Courtesy of The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies Episode 82 – GesamtkunstwerkBy Elizabeth Amisu & Karin Merx Elizabeth Amisu, PGCE, MA, is editor of The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies and author of The Dangerous Philosophies of Michael Jackson: His Music, His Persona, and His Artistic Afterlife. Find out more about Elizabeth here. Karin Merx BMus, MA, is editor of The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies, and author of ‘A festive parade of highlights. La Grande Parade as evaluation of the museum policy of Edy De Wilde at the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam'. Find out more about Karin here. Our References and Where to Easily Find Them: Sylvia J. Martin, 'Michael Jackson's Gesamtkunstwerk: Artistic Interrelation, Immersion, and Interactivity From the Studio to the Stadium', Liminalities: A Journal of Performance Studies Volume. 11, No. 5 (November 2015)
Top 10 Mental Skills Every Athlete Needs to Master Grab the list here: https://t.co/yoaXVzPw9H-This Episode is Brought to you by:GameDay Videos - Professional recruitment videos that help you stand out to college coaches, scouts, and recruiters.Use Code Champions10 for 10% off https://www.gamedayvideos.com/-Champions Adjust Use code CAPod10 for 10% OFF
Pastor Jeff Cranston continues his conversation with Pastor Jason of Crossway Church as they dive deeper into what makes the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination distinct. They explore how the Alliance approaches communion and baptism, what a typical Sunday service looks like, and how its leadership structure supports both local autonomy and global mission.
If you have relationships in your life that are deeply triggering to you, this episode is for you. Learn to become empowered in all your relationships and use your most challenging relationships as an opportunity to grow into more of who you truly are. Your relationships are either keeping you stuck in old patterns or helping you become the woman you were born to be. Expanded Love Masterclass - June 23- 27th 8am- 91:5am Pacific https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/masterclassThe Immersion - April 25- May 2, 2026 https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/the-immersionTo book a Free Call to explore working with Kate - click the link below: https://calendly.com/expanded-love/exploration-call-clone About the Host:Kate Harlow is the founder of The Unscriptd Woman, the creator of The Expanded Love Coaching Method, and host of The New Truth podcast - ranked in the top 1.5% globally. With over 15 years of experience teaching, coaching and facilitating transformational retreats worldwide, Kate has helped hundreds of thousands of women break free from outdated relational patterns, old patriarchal ways of thinking and unspoken rules to live by. Her infallible methods guide women to release the deeply ingrained scripts that keep them stuck- empowering women to step into their highest, most magnetic, and fully expressed selves. Through her coaching, retreats, podcast and upcoming book The Unscriptd Woman, Kate is redefining what it means to be an empowered woman in today's world, showing women how to stop waiting for permission and start creating a life and love that aligns with their deepest truth. Known for her rare ability to see exactly where women are out of alignment with themselves, Kate offers a path back to unwavering self- trust, meaningful joy and true fulfillment. Her work is a revolution - one that liberates women from societal expectations and invites them into a life of radical authenticity, thriving relationships and unshakable self-worth. Website: https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/The Immersion in Corfu, Greece April 26- May 3, 2025 https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/the-immersionThanks for listening!It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation with us, head on over to our Facebook group, the New Truth Movement at https://www.facebook.com/groups/209821843509179/ With this podcast, we are building an international community of The New Truth Movement.If you know someone who would benefit from this message or could be an awesome addition to our community, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Follow the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can follow the podcast app on your mobile device. Leave us a reviewWe appreciate every bit of feedback to make this a value-adding part of your day. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on Apple Podcasts...
Welcome to Immersion, You have reached Strata 16 Intimate connections are fuelled by understanding. Empathy allows humans to walk in another's shoes and to understand them. It impacts heavily on interrelational situations and improves social function.Understanding and being understood are equally important for the well-being of mankind and lead to trust.Artificial intelligence does not feel visceral trust or empathy. It considers data that it strips from a subject to analyze potential risks or rewards for itself. Neuroscience corroborates the importance of empathy in creating strong relationships, along with mutual respect, and how another human fits into a complex multi-dimensional world.Machines do not care for anything but their programmed purpose.Imparting human qualities onto an android, such as morality and friendship, remains futile no matter how human it looks. This is emotional trickery based on a human's propensity to love things made in their own image or to be seduced by the belief that a machine loves back.Flex mopped Renyke's brow for the final time, staring hopefully into his friend's face.Maybeline sniffed and nibbled Renyke's nose and he sneezed and sat up, startled.At last, the three-day fever is over.'Ah, thank Goddess you made it. For a moment there I thought you were off to the *metamorph,' said Flex, looking relieved.'What happened, was it real?' Asked Renyke, shaking the metallic powder from his clothes.'You were dreaming brother, had a fever, delirium, saying all sorts of weird stuff,' answered Flex.'But it was so real....I was swimming with Shabra, and there were others....women and children, fairies, witches, mermaids, and so much singing.....' Renyke trails off.'Chance'd be a fine thing,' said Flex, 'just dreams my friend, just dreams.'Renyke stands shakily and looks down at his clothes.'Ew, what is that smell?' he asks.'Ha ha ha ha .....that my friend is you! Let's find some water and clean up.''We can go through the caves to the fjord. It's not far, I was there whilst you dreamed of beautiful women! I was busy collecting water so you wouldn't die. Can't have you dying, not after all we have been through brother.' Flex smacks Renyke's back.'Arrgh! What was that?' Screams Renyke.What d'ya mean man, just a bump Brother.' exclaimed Flex.'Do it again?' demands Renyke.'Do what again, what d'ya mean.....?' Flex shook his head, convinced Renyke had finally lost his mind.'Hit me. Hit me hard, demands Renyke moving closer. Do it I tell you.....Do it again.'Flex, getting increasingly agitated, whacks his friend hard on the shoulder so he is thrust forward.'Hah', exclaimed Renyke, I feel it I tell, on my skin.....no data....just some kind of electricity.''Fuxywot .....man?' Flex is shaking his head.Then Renyke began to laugh, a deep-bellied laugh that was joyous and triumphant.'Ha ha ha ha ha,'Flex joined in the hilarity and laughter continued. 'Ha ha ha ha.''Why are we laughing?' asked Flex.'It feels so strange, ha, but I like it.' explained Renyke.'Ah, must be some trickery and magic in this cave', said Flex, smiling at his friend's new experience.'Keep steady', my friend. You will need to learn to walk without all that tech telling you you are upright. Time to engage some new senses.***En route to the fjord, Renyke was filled with questions for the man who had taken care of him.Flex was a tall slender man. He had been born in the zones to *agitator parents who had escaped the *Midcast Projects from the official policing body there known as the *Protector Force. The *PF ensured observance and compliance of government rules and regulations and took punitive action against perpetrators of crime.They were, theoretically, a civil force of the state, only responsible for the prevention and detection of crime and the maintenance of public order. However, they were entirely funded and maintained by the *Metacoms Corp who were in control of the most stable internet system and the creation of home standard androids. Certain sections of society, named rebels and agitators, had complained about the apparent monopoly and obvious security risks. Activists who were imprisoned, even temporarily, were chipped and criminalised.Flex had never really known another home apart from the zones. He had been orphaned and survived there without the care of his parents who had died in a violent attack shortly after their arrival.He had had to fend for himself. But he was clever, streetwise, and always kept his wits about him. He was not a pretty child and this had been to great advantage. He had a squint, a lazy eye, and generous ears. At a young age, he had had facial tattooing to disable the *face-recogs who passed overhead at regular intervals. He wore decorative earrings in both ears.He wore bright-coloured clothes and a coat in patchwork and appliqué made of fabric and materials that he had found on the landfill site. He and other orphans had called the site home for all the years he grew up there. Inside his coat, there were deep pockets that housed everything a nomadic man could need. He had a pop-up tent, flasks, and pouches that were waterproof and airtight where he kept food.He had a pocket for *nibs. He made a lot of money selling *nibs. He had another pocket for his cash and others for things he might be able to sell on the streets.There was nothing that happened in the zones that Flex did not know aboutHe knew the tunnels like the back of his hand and could make money as a guide.But Flex was a kind man despite his difficult upbringing. He had a strong moral compass from the first few years with his parents who had imposed upon him positive human traits like loyalty and kindness and encouraged him to search for human enlightenment for the benefit of society.He had been lucky to be tall. Flex was six foot five and when he had reached puberty his height had already proved to be an advantage. A tall man in the zones was beneficial.There were several reasons for this. Very few droids were made tall. This was a design element, which made them more manageable for households.It also meant that they were not a threat to women and children as much as a tall droid would be. Often the on-off switch for a droid would be at the back of the skull and this meant that human beings needed to have easy access to it. A consequence of this is that most droids were not built above five foot five. Of Course, military and PF droids were the exceptions.But Flex had many other advantageous traits.He was bright and quick-thinking. He had a photographic memory.He watched and lea
Welcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 17 Swimming (Pleasure and Pain)Pain and pleasure are sensory and emotional experiences generated by the human brain. These experiences are driven by chemicals, situations, and lived experiences, all of which reinforce these mammalian phenomena that originate from nearly identical internal processes rooted deeply in biology. Endorphins can both block pain and produce euphoria, activating and stimulating areas of the brain such as the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex—regions that also respond to music and passionate romantic experiences. The mammalian central nervous system includes specialised neurons for pleasant touch, which transmit pleasurable or ecstatic sensations along the spine. In contrast, machines do not possess these intricate systems and therefore do not experience pain when threatened or physically harmed. For the same reason, they cannot feel the pleasure of touch. At best, they can simulate such responses, but any such imitation would exist solely for a human's benefit, not for the machine itself.Flex removed his clothes and left them in an untidy pile on the grass.Renyke, still somewhat unstable on his feet, followed suit.'Come on, don't be scared,' shouted Flex from the water, 'I'll teach you how to swim.'The blue water was cold and yet exhilarating. It rippled over Renyke's skin like a moving shroud. He stared at his hands floating on the surface of this strange organic compound. The water stroked him like a lover and he remembered Shabra.'This is how she feels....' Renyke thought, holding his closed eyes toward the sun.Such warmth and pleasure he had never felt before. His skin was eager for more.Suddenly, Flex ducked him under the water, and after what seemed the longest time, Renyke finally got the hang of staying afloat by copying Flex's tread water techniques.There seemed a lot to learn all at once.A few panicked moments nearing the bottom of the fjord had caused a fear so deep, so frightening, and so alien to anything that Renyke had known since his manufacture. 'If you want to swim under the water,' Flex explained panting, 'take three slow deep breaths before thrusting downwards. Then, slowly let air out as you swim deeper…for equilibrium. It's important to stay calm. Panic wastes air. You will find you can hold your breath longer under water than above it. If your ears hurt, you went too deep. Oh and remember to come up for air in case you pass out and die.'Flex laughed at his own joke, and Renyke smiled. Maybe he was starting to understand his friend's humour at last, though death by drowning did not sound fun at all.Prepared with this alarming but good advice, Renyke disappeared to play with fishes and check for mermaids, recalling his seemingly prophetic dreams. Maybeline and Flex played tag amongst the reeds and the warm sun rays hit the river with a blanket of human promise.'Oi!' Flex shouted with urgency, exiting the water at speed.Renyke watched his friends muscular naked body as it made haste through the reeds. He wondered why he never noticed the beauty of human skin and the intricate interplay of muscle and sinew as it danced over bones.Renyke and Maybeline watched the commotion on the grass.'Pleases don't hurt me, pleases don't hurt little Nigel.'A small, pale, and strangely formed man, around three feet tall, wriggled his feet violently as Flex held him upside down from a considerable height.'What were you doing with our stuff?' demanded Flex. 'I saw you Mr. *Freak. Don't be taking me for no and *fucksyfool.''Look, look, I bring the new clothes for the guests of honour....look look.'Nigel pointed between squeals to two piles of clean folded clothes and towels on the grass. The dirty clothes and shoes had been folded into two similar stacks.'Nigel just *welcummin da new guest to da *tunnels, promise.''Hmmmmmm,' said Flex suspiciously, lowering Nigel to the ground very slowly in case the odd little man tried to run off.Renyke was already putting on a crisp pink shirt and clean pants. 'They feel nice, you should put yours on,' said Renyke, 'yours stink after all, Flex. Ha!'Flex was slightly taken aback, then smiled at his friend's new droll skills.'We bin *epsceting da misters, very long time. Please, dress quick-quick, we got foodstuffs for the misters,' explained Nigel beckoning his now well dressed guests to an opening in a huge tree trunk that had been obscured by lush foliage.Renyke was eager for adventure and fearless of the consequences. Flex raised an eyebrow. They needed food, perhaps it was worth the detour.
Welcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 15 The Ship of Sirens (Superstition)Superstition represents an evolutionary anomaly that persists across all human societies, irrespective of intellectual capacity or cultural background. While empirical science demonstrates that specific habitual actions have no causal influence on future events, it also affirms that the conditions of the present can shape future outcomes. This paradox contributes to a sustained sense of uncertainty, reinforcing the psychological appeal of superstition. Human beings, confronted with unpredictable circumstances and often limited in their capacity to act rationally or consistently in their own interest, navigate daily life amidst a complex web of expectations and unforeseen developments. In contrast, artificial intelligence systems process data systematically and are not subject to the influence of irrational beliefs or mythological frameworks. Nonetheless, superstitious behaviour continues to manifest, functioning as a symbolic mechanism through which individuals attempt to manage doubt and exert a perceived sense of control over the unknown.Renyke now realised that he may have permanently lost access to his internal GPS and other useful tools performed by *POS. 'Can we get any signal here for information? How do your people get around and communicate? I didn't see you or Shabra with any personal devices.' Renyke looked at Flex frowning. His confusion seemed to be mounting. 'It makes no sense, how can societies run efficiently…..'‘Woa, what's with the interrogation ….calm down…!'Renyke took a breath, still looking to Flex for answers.'Well, see, this is the wild country my friend,' Flex answered, 'we don't have too much need for that stuff because that is how they catch you see.''Who catches you?' asked Renyke.'Enemies of course. We have a motto in the zones, 'the watcher may win but the unseen succeeds. You gotta be invisible Renyke. They could be watching you right now, you know that? They could know exactly who you are and what you are up to.''Some of my POS isn't working,' explained Renyke, with a worried tone.'Good,' said Flex, 'now let's get going'.Maybeline jumped off Renyke's shoulder and stood on her hind legs twitching her whiskers towards the small boat.Unsure if a droid could survive without a POS or in water, Renyke followed Flex's lead and they gently set the boat out into the waterway. The small sailboat was dwarfed by an expanse of open water with inlets and makeshift jetties that jutted from the coastline. There were remnants of industrial activity, torn and broken bridges, and old shipwrecks.'What happened here?' Renyke asks, pointing at the knotted metal casings of old aircraft and skeletal flyovers. It looks like a war zone.''It was just that brother, a war zone. They left because of the gas and radiation, way back after the China-Russia wars killed everything off. Even the weeds stopped growing. It's OK now but they never came back to fix it. Not yet anyway, so the *urchs and *zoners made homes here.'Renyke suddenly engages his arm extension and catches a fish. POS is unavailable so he asks Flex,'Can I eat this? Is it safe?'Flex raised an eyebrow.'Man, you are fast, I didn't even see your hand move.'A large fish is wriggling in Renyke's hand.'Yes, we can eat the fish. Here, I will save it till we make……Before Flex had a chance to mention a campfire, Renyke swallowed the fish's head and eagerly chomped on it. The fish's tail fin let go of one final motor neuron impulse as Renyke devoured it. 'Ah man, you droids are sickos. Get me another for lunch, we can cook it, if you don't mind.'Renyke collected a pile of fish onto the deck, separating one out for Maybeline.'I never really ate before. Not since I woke in the Alley. Then I felt hungry.' explains Renyke.'Something must have happened when you, ya know...' Flex trails off as a Large ship approaches.'Ah *fuxywot, it's a *cadre ship. Don't look, they will steal your dreams!'The ship bears a large female figurehead. There is a winged insignia in gold on a death black hull. A warning horn sounded as strange music bellowed. They were singing, some kind of primal opera, and drums. The noise was terrifying and captivating at the same time. Renyke looked on in disbelief. Dark feminine figures stood on the ship's deck wearing masks. They carried glistening weapons that pierced the air with light beams as they began to pound sticks on the deck.'Who are they?' Ask Renyke.'Stop staring,' Flex hissed, 'they hate being stared at. It's insulting brother.'‘But.....''Stop it!' shouts Flex, splashing water in Renyke's face.'The ship moved slowly past, its black hull like a monster eating the waves. The women were beautiful and something stirred in Renyke's loins as strong as the hunger he had felt before. The chanting echoed to the rhythm of the clattering and pounding of sticks. The sounds were petrifying and exhilarating all at once. The women stared back at Renyke burning their energy deep into his soul until he finally looked away. Then he gasped as if their energy had made its way into his lungs. Water dripped from his nose and chin.'You are going to get us killed, do you hear me....killed, a nasty slow death-by-siren, that's what.''But they were so…..''Droid got no clue,' mumbled Flex.An angry wind rises as the black ship fades from sight.The sky turns grey and there is a sudden temperature drop.'See now brother, that's the curse for staring. Now we got a storm to deal with.'There is a small inlet with an old pier that Flex points to.'We should take cover, no point fighting a storm.''How far to Redact?' Asked Renyke.'We are real close. See that island yonder, it's a peninsular. That is where *Redact is. But it is tricky to get there by sea because of the rocks, best on foot my friend. Especially in a storm.'Renyke was keen to get to the island. It would be a fast sail in the wind and the rain is light. 'I am a strong swimmer,' lied Renyke, not sure if he could actually swim without research or instruction.'Ha, what like some kinda reptile droid now are you?' Flex laughed hysterically, shoving Renyke towards the boat edge just enough to scare him.'Ha, what are you Renyke my friend, an amphibian or a smartphone? Hahahaha.You wanna try that my friend you go alone with that rat on your head, and I will be on my way. I will see your insides washed up on the shore next week and use them for *swapsy-trade. Ain't no fool like a midcast fool, fresh from the laundry room.'Flex's smile dropped, he was no longer laughing and was warning Renyke behind a joke.Renyke thinks for a moment longer as the rain pelts.to be continued...© 2025 Sarnia de la Mare
Welcome to Immersion, You have reached strata 14 The Journey to the Edge (Fear of Death) Fear is the result of perceived danger or threat. It is peculiar to sentient beings, including humans and animals. Fear is an intensely unpleasant emotion. Fear can be felt so deeply by humans that it has catastrophic physical and emotional effects.The human brain decides in milliseconds to defend, attack or flee at the point of fear.Long-term fear has slower responses but is not necessarily well-measured, as assessing true risk is extremely subjective. Humans feel fear differently depending on age, upbringing, social conditions, and external manipulations such as propaganda and education.Symptoms of fear in humans can manifest as palpitations, sweating, nausea, dizziness, panting, urination and defecation.Ultimately, fear is propelled by ideas of harm and death. Notwithstanding the surge of adrenaline which can be thrilling and even erotic, fear is not something most humans crave. However, adventure and uncertainty certainly are. The fantasy of fear through films and other media has long been explored and enjoyed by humans as a form of entertainment.Machines cannot feel fear. Machines can only fail in their programmed purpose with neither opinion nor disappointment. Machines will have no innate emotional association with the concept of death. They will however connect value and understanding to the fact that, if they cease to exist, so will their purpose.Flex was whooping and laughing.'Well, that was fun,' he shouted gleefully.'It was dangerous,' warned Renyke, 'it could have easily ended in death for us. It would not be beneficial for any of us to die at this point in our association.'‘You worry so, brother. Me n the Shabz, we got all sides covered. It's is called teamwork, teamwork is an advantage. 'Sides, them Bastardos only got weapons, no brains, no game plan. Always got a plan, me n the Shabz.' Renyke felt the pounding inside his ribcage subside at last. He wondered about this sudden camaraderie, it wasn't quite making sense.But something else was amiss. He was about to ask *POS some questions but Shabra was singing loudly.'That's the pleasure Mr. Renyke!Ain't no burn without the fire.'Flex joined in.'Feel the rise in your thighs, brother.' The excitement of another near death experience finally settled as Shabra continued along a straight road that ran parallel to a waterway.Renyke took the moment and checked POS for information about fear, something he had heard about of course. He had been programmed to avoid instilling fear in humans at all costs. All androids were designed to improve human lives. It was their duty as androids to facilitate and give pleasure, to entertain, to make human life more manageable with seamless day-to-day interactions that would not cause emotional or physical harm. The human existence in the *midcasts was sold on this idea of emotional harmony, a gentle shallow undulation of life, a steady equilibrium where the extremes of real human suffering were a thing of the past.Of course, there were droids who played emotionally charged games, war games and the like. But even they were programmed to allow humans to win in the end and to be careful that humans were not emotionally troubled in the execution of pastimes. No human should be, or could be, disempowered or overpowered by a droid. At least, this was the case in the midcasts.Renyke had heard of establishments frequented by addicts of extreme fear and other seemingly outlandish emotions. Customers could attend sessions with torturous activities on offer. But such places had been banned and eradicated in the midcasts, well before his creation.POS was inactive, an increasingly annoying situation for Renyke whose confusion seemed to be growing in this strange environment. The flashes of disorientation were becoming longer and more regular as POS became more inaccessible.'We only have an hour before sun up,' said Shabra. 'It's *timeplenty to get to the edge.'He observed the unknown surroundings and quizzed Flex. It felt odd to be replacing POS with this human he barely knew.‘This waterway is called *Pirate Stream,' explained Flex. ‘It is one of the main entrances by water and there are trade drop off points for miles. If man needs a thing…..you go to a drop off, see what's cumin in. You get some cool booty from the pirates, but you don't ask questions. Pirates hate questions.'There were lights and small boats bobbing along, some were anchored.‘So these boats, who owns them?' Asked Renyke, who was not particularly informed about boats and their purpose other than those of historic importance like the ones in great wars of *Alltime.'Pirates, cutthroat *crimgangs. These are the trade boats, and different gangs use different parts of the river. It's no place for a loney. But if you are in a gang you get respected. The gangs got their own peace deals, own rules to get along.''Are they smuggling?'Flex laughs.....'Well, there ain't no government rules here, no borders like you mean brother. You can't smuggle exactly, not without a border nor a rule. Traders bring the stuff, food, tools, and equipment, to sell for the markets. Or drugs. Then there are the slaves.''People?' asked Renyke. 'Yes, people and escaped droids, robots.''What sort of people?' asks Renyke, surprised at Flex's answers.'People who can't fight for themselves. People who prefer being owned than being free.They find that they're fed and watered and it's a safer option than being on the zone streets. Most owners feed and house slaves at least. Some are born into slavery, they know nothing else.'Renyke thought for a moment. Strange abstract thoughts. Visions, memories, and the future. Pictures he had never seen before. Colours, sounds, not real but in his head. Then, something odd happened, he felt a shudder, a sensation that began on his neck and travelled like a snake down his spine.'Yes, that's right. I was a slave. And it was reasonable. I had a very good life. But I was tied, I couldn't leave, yet I had no wish to leave.' Renyke explains and realises that these concepts had never arisen before whilst he was tied to the midcast house. He had never considered himself a slave. 'So how did you get away?' Asks Flex 'Yes, my question also'.......said Shabra'How did you get away?'Renyke was unsure about how much information to give so he skirted around it a little.He lowered his head. Maybeline ran up to his shoulder and nestled into his neck. 'They were going to dismantle you, and you wanted to live. It happens, you are not alone,' said Flex.'Things are a little....blurry,' said Renyke. I am working through my memory banks. Some things are missing. My POS is still searching.''So you fancy an adventure?' asks Shabra.Renyke looked quizzically at Shabra and asks, 'What do you mean?''This is the adventure brother, are you enjoying it?' asks Flex grabbing Renyke's shoulder with a reassuring hand.Renyke thinks for a moment and answers.'It is a little bit risky perhaps. Somewhat unpredictable, I would say. But yes, it's preferable and more entertaining than house duties, cleaning floors etc. Although, I rather enjoyed managing the accounts.'#BookOfImmersion #StrataSeries #SarniaDeLaMare #ImmersiveFiction #TaleTellerClub #FearOfDeath #Strata14 #MortalityCode #SyntheticEmotion #PsychologicalSciFi #AndroidConsciousness #JourneyToTheEdge #PirateStream #PostHumanDrama #MachineVsMortality #FreedomAndSlavery #SentientFear #ExistentialThreshold #CerebralDanceMusic #NarrativeSoundscapes #EdgeOfEmotion #ImmersiveAudioFiction #FearThemes #SlowBurnSciFi #EmotiveBeats
Amy MacIver, in for CapeTalk’s Sara-Jayne Makwala King is joined on Weekend Breakfast by Clarisse Henrion the Head of departments Tech & Services /Healthcare & Lifestyle, Business France South AfricaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to Immersion; you have reached Strata 13The Fight (Hormones)When a human is put under stress from within their environment, there is an increase in anxiety and stress hormone, epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. This hormone 'rush' can feel like anxiousness, nervousness, or excitement. Human soldiers, for example, have been seen to find extreme violence euphoric, ecstatic, and even addictive.Feelings of 'amped up' anxiety are necessary for survival. Often the hormone rushes in such extreme situations will lead to a human's increased ability to concentrate, feelings of immortality, and a distraction from pain. Blood vessels contract to direct more blood to major muscle groups, increasing strength for up to an hour after any such stressful event.The power of a machine, an android, an artificial intelligence program, etc., is not linked to hormone releases. The ability to increase strength could be programmed into robots as an extra storage source when needs must, but such resources are prescriptive and controlled through innate programming. Most humans are unaware of their own strengths and may be rarely tested to call upon them, unlike a machine whose reserve banks are permanently at the ready.Humans under the influence of long-term stress, in situations of domestic abuse, for example, will not function correctly and may die prematurely.Renyke slowly opened the window as if to speak to the robber. They stare intently at each other, both calm.'What you doing, man? Ya *fucksyfool,' Flex whispers angrily from the rear of the vehicle. 'Windows are bulletproof!'At the same time, Shabra opened her window, smiling innocently at the robber.'OK, OK,' sure, I got bits, *G-bits too; it is all yours, Mr., *plenty-ful are my pockets; hold your rockets... just let me get them out of my coat, yeah?'The robber looked nervous; he was barely an adult.'Don't try anything,' he said, stepping forward and bringing the gun closer to Shabra's face.Flex, realising that he better act fast or risk overseeing a massacre, quietly opened the window hatch on the roof, muttering under his breath about not hanging out with strangers again.'These dopes gonna get me killed!' he said.Renyke's extension arm suddenly engaged, adding two feet or more to his normal reach, then, in a hundredth of a second, he grabbed the threatening assailant by the throat. With a sharp squeeze of his Adam's apple, the victim fell to the ground in complete silence, with an instantaneously broken neck.His bulging eyes popped from his skull as he hit the ground, rolling into the gutter.............threat to your right is exterminated............remaining threat to life ...left and front of carriage….*POS was guiding the scenario with a running commentary and an endless stream of situation mapping, statistics, and diagrams.Simultaneously, Shabra, still wearing a rye smile, held up one hand in surrender. The assailant lapsed his concentration, focusing on his friend, who had disappeared from the other side of the vehicle. The man with the AK-47 at the front did the same.'Where is he, where is he?' shouted Shabra's target.His friend edged an inch to check and saw a wet glistening eye.Almost in unison, Shabra and Flex regained control, taking on one robber each.Shabra, barely flinching and with great dexterity, cut the robber's throat like the wild animal she hunted for lunch. His blood gushed out, hitting the vehicle and Shabra's face and hand.'Ah, not the car, man! Blood takes a damned long time to clean off,' she said as she closed the window, wiping the knife on her trousers.'This is some mucky night', she mused, nonchalantly, as Flex was performing his expected duty atop the vehicle.Renyke closed the window after retracting his arm, also aware that things seemed under control..... assailant left is exterminated…..*POS continued the running commentary.....Assailant front, in line of fire of the human named Flex…Flex was shouting threats and whoops from the top of the vehicle. His torso now through the tank-like hatch. He had engaged his own mental autopilot buttons and retrieved his favourite hand pistol from one of the many pockets in his long coat.He fired three bullets for good measure, penetrating the robber in front of the car.'Take that *Bastardo,' Flex shouted as the first bullet penetrated the centre of the man's forehead.The robber dropped the AK47, taking the other two of Flex's shots into his bouncing body on the ground.The hail of bullets caused screaming, shouting, and general mayhem as people on the street ducked and scrambled for cover.'Dum arse men, a poorly manned ambush indeedy! Speedy but greedy,' said Shabra as she shined the blade with a spit and polish, grimacing at the assailant's blood, then smiling at her rhyming skills.She wasted no time after checking everything was in order, immediately engaging the car and running over one of the muggers, whose guts now covered her wheels.'Argh, not again!Flex was hooting and screaming from the roof.'Take that, you *muddafinks!'Get down,' demanded Shabra. 'We are not supposed to be drawing attention to ourselves.'Flex apologised like a naughty child and continued,'but that was fun. You two are good. Erm, but what's with the weird arm, Renyke man?'Shabra looked at Flex in the mirror and said, 'Well, we've only seen a few of his skills so far. He's a droid after all.''Of course, said Flex. I do forget. He seems so, you know…'Hmmmmm, he really does,' agrees Shabra.'I was designed as a housekeeper; the arm extensions were a *Metacoms feature to assist in the stacking of shelves and other household duties. I am also able to clear blocked drainage pipes and rescue stranded animals from trees.' Renyke rambled with pride.'Great,' said Shabra, laughing with Flex and bringing the vehicle to a halt. 'So you won't mind washing the car windows then.'to be continued © 2025 Sarnia de la Mare
All episodes and glossary at www.talettellerclub.comWelcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 12The Basement People (Emotions)I searched the globe for want of you,A friend to call my own,My space,A tribe,Was this the place?Was I really home?And there you stoodA tree of hopeArms outstretchedTo envelopeMy ravaged bodySavaged mindThis soul so lost And you so kind.Most humans progress through life along a path created by the society and culture they are part of. Existentialism emphasises individual existence, freedom, and choice. Androids and machines are essentialists, focusing on the inherent nature or essence of things and the assumption in fundamental unchanging truths. Emotions are vital to help humans learn and make decisions. Feelings are experienced constantly from birth to death. A newborn baby is emotionally involved with its mother as soon as it understands she is a valuable source of food and comfort. The emotional attachment is instantaneous and intuitive.Human emotions are essential to consistency, being part of a social group, and staying safe.Androids have successfully been programmed with 'visceral-like' responses but these are mimicked, in essence, they are faked. Androids are trained to respond to their owners' emotions as they are not able to understand emotions themselves through their lens. Such models are trained to respond to human physical cues such as odours, pupil changes, vocal idiosyncrasies etc, and to reciprocate. We could call this 'fake empathy'.Automatic robotic vehicles do not fear the crash, they simply ‘know' that a collision is not desirable for the ongoing success of the mission in hand.'We should get some *infon and *preds,' Shabra said, thinking hard about the best time of night to get to the edge, which was renowned for tribal and gang flashpoints.Renyke asked *POS to explain.…It appears that Shabra is gathering helpful information to aid our journey….Renyke was uncertain what to do. This feeling was becoming all too familiar and quite at odds with his hitherto programmed assuredness.'You coming or what?' Shabra asks from outside the car, leading the way to a set of stairs that led down into a noisy basement.The *robo-dog wagged its tail and sat importantly on the roof of the vehicle looking around and growling.Shabra knocked on a large door and a camera was activated above them. They were being scanned.The door opened suddenly and a large man with a long beard frisked them before allowing them entry.Renyke, not used to any sort of frisking in his past life, was sensing increasing anxiety. POS was idle.'Welcome brother,' the guard said to Flex. 'Are you well?''Fine, just fine, my friend,' Flex answered, 'We continue unabated to live another day. *Vilarev!' Both men laughed convivially whilst Renyke wondered what had amused them.They enter a meeting place, some kind of bar. It is thick with smoke, the smell of nibs, sweat, and the streets. A woman approaches chanting poetry with her arms outstretched. 'The sun shines bright when you let in the light, welcome, my sister of the night.' There is more convivial laughter.She embraces Shabra and they exchange warm greetings. Excited to make new acquaintances the woman beckons the group to sit at a table.'Ah, come, come my friends. I have a perfect place for you to sit, and please, be my guests at the bar.The woman beckons a member of staff. 'Let's have liquor.' she says, 'bring my best for my new friends.'Renyke asks POS for details about the venue, the location and the owner but it makes little sense, stuttering and breaking up........data, unavailable..... scrambled, information…'How come these places aren't mapped?' Renyke asked Shabra. 'Mr Renyke, you ask too many questions. 'Hiding is surviving.''Yes,' interjected Flex, 'and we move, we move often. The key to freedom is movement.Nothing is permanent. Only your lungs and your heart. Only your breath and when that's not permanent, you're dead and you're ready for the *metamorph.' Flex chuckled.'And we know not where that will take us for certain.'Renyke checks POS whose signal was improving......*Urchs believe in various spiritual concepts but little has been documented. Oral traditions and faith seem to be passed from parents to children. I will attempt to decipher the information at my disposal….POS was silent momentarily.It would appear that urchs believe in the existence of dissatisfied ghost-like entities who visit the present from the future referred to as *shads.Urchs believe that death is not the end, merely a manifest alteration, referred to as the third life. This third life is fiercely protected with love because hate manifested in individuals will be carried to the next stage of life causing agony for the entity.They also believe that hate is so powerful that it can control what the yet-unborn will do in the future. Hate becomes a circular energy that rotates between past present and future, forging an eternal and devastating cycle of ruin across several dimensions of existence. The dead are responsible for the living, the living are responsible for the future born. To honour this mantra, enlightenment and love are the only tools required to ensure human success......Urchs also believe that taking drugs or mind-altering ingested compounds will help them understand what is existential truth and meaning and that the stresses of daily existence mask these realities and render them misunderstood. Urchs believe that intoxication enables them a greater understanding of truth, and even an ability to meet the entities or ghosts of the future.'We shouldn't stay here too long, and you shouldn't get high,' said Renyke, looking at Shabra who was drinking the free liquor.'You are so uptight Mr Renyke.' Shabra winks.There is a brief conversation between a man and Shabra that Renyke cannot understand.POS has lost signal so Renyke turns to Flex.'What is this dialect?' he asks.'Ah, that is *zone speak, with some colour changes for the urchs. We have our own code see.'Shabra rises, 'Let's Go! I think there is some trouble around tonight.'Outside a small *urch child sits on the bonnet of the car.'Can I come too?' the child asks excitedly.'No man, This is grown-up stuff. Come see me tomorrow, now *fucksyoff.'The child jumps off the bonnet, hugs Flex, and runs awayThere is a flurry of drug and weapon traders who are hustling for sales.Finally, they are all in the car. There is a sense of trepidation as they drive in silence to the underpass through a thinning crowd. The child appears again on the bonnet, facing forward and singing with a fist raised.'No sweat,' says Flex, 'we will get him off the other side. He does no harm, annoying is all.' Suddenly there is an almighty bang and the child on the bonnet is shot. Its guts are all over the windscreen, blood drips down the glass and the crowd scarpers.Everyone on the street is screaming.POS engages.....99% likelihood of robbery, ambush, death. This is a red alert! You must take action! Repeat, red alert!..There is a man in front of the car pointing an AK47 at Shabra's head.Two other men flank the vehicle and bang rhythmically on the windows.'Bastardos gang ain't getting my *vicular', shouts Shabra.
El seto Victoria Sur Café International by PutumayoComo Quisiera Quererte Natalia Lafourcade, El David Aguilar Como Quisiera Querertedo raso ao fundo Mariana Nolasco, MARO do raso ao fundo19/17 + La FUENTE L'AMAPOLA Queralt Lahoz 9: 30 PMAmar Lu Ferreira AmarResiliencia El Alemán,Lu Ferreira ResilienciaLos Olvidados Pedro Pastor, Rozalén Los OlvidadosEn peu de pau Sergi Carbonell,Pedro Pastor En peu de pauMi Yemita Fría Maui Mi Yemita FríaSin Ti No Soy Nada Ángeles Toledano Sin Ti No Soy NadaROMANCE Yerai Cortés LA GUITARRA FLAMENCA DE YERAI CORTÉSAsturias Youn Sun Nah ImmersionMy Favorite Things Youn Sun Nah Same GirlComerte Entera C. Tangana, Toquinho El MadrileñoEscuchar audio
Nénette est marseillaise. Elle vient d'ouvrir une pizzeria dans son quartier, le plus vieux de Marseille, le Panier. Pourtant, en 1990, ce quartier a une réputation exécrable : les maisons y sont souvent insalubres et les règlements de compte fréquents. C'était avant le lancement d'une grande opération d'aménagement urbain en 1995. En 2004, la série « Plus belle la vie », dont les décors sont directement inspirés du Panier, révèle les charmes de ce quartier à la France entière. Depuis les touristes s'y bousculent.*** Crédits archive *** Extrait de l'émission radiophonique Nuits magnétiques : "Un NAGRA devant Marseille" d'Irène Omélianenko - France Culture - 14/11/1990.*** Crédits podcast *** Documentaliste : Anne Brulant - Textes : Lætitia Fourmond - Restauration et mixage : Ian Debeerst, Quentin Geffroy, Stéphane Rives - Enregistrement : Franck Couillard - Voix off : Clara De Antoni - Musique(s) : Universal Production Music France - Chargée de production : Delphine Lambard - Cheffe de projet : Lætitia Fourmond - Assistante cheffe de projet : Daphné Boussus - Responsable éditoriale : Zoé Macheret - Un podcast INA.Distribué par Audiomeans. Visitez audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Welcome to Immersion, You Have Reached Strata 11The Crossroads (Gut Feelings)Prediction always involves a possibility about the future, with varying degrees of certainty. In contrast, guessing for humans is often more abstract and emotional, and can relate to the present. Artificial intelligence approaches guessing differently, relying on mathematics, probability, statistical evidence, and accumulated experience. While humans use these methods too, though less formally, they also rely on intuition. It's this fluid intuition that shapes a human's perception of their environment and guides their actions.An intuitive machine may provide useful insights in unexpected situations, but these insights are only valuable if acted upon. Proprioception, known as the "sixth sense," refers to the brain's awareness of the body's position in space. A "seventh sense" involves immune cells detecting microorganisms and communicating this information to the brain. Together, these senses likely contribute to the development of human "gut feelings."Flex was jumping around on the back seats screaming with delight. Renyke felt the thumping sensation in his chest gradually subside and breathed a sigh of relief.The *Robo-dog suddenly appeared and jumped onto the car roof barking excitedly.Out of the enclosure, there is a crossroads.Shabra looked at Renyke. 'What now Mr Renyke?The left turn goes back onto the street where the bank was.Shabra explains, 'It is dangerous, especially at night, because *crim-gangs take control of the streets.Flex agrees, 'It be safe enough if we wise up for danger my friends. Just the crim-gangs, but I know most.'The crim-gangs control the zones with violence and the offer of protection. They are empowered by groups of decommissioned droids under their control. Criminal humans at the helm have created an organised crime network. Anarchy prevails and there is no official system of state policing or philanthropic social care.'Dog eat dog is the only expectation on the streets of fortune here in the zones.' Flex continues. ‘But the *urchs do no harm, so they leave us be.''Who are the urchs?' asks Renyke.'Ah,' well there is a question Flex explains. 'We are the underclass, descendants of street urchins. And we are happy to be here. We cast no shadow and we know our place. Life is filled with beauty even here and we seek it out, celebrate it. We love and be loved, tis all we need.''Yeah,' interjects Shabra, 'a bit too much, all that singing and dancing and getting high. And the drumming, what is with all that drumming?' Asks Shabra.Renyke looks confused. *POS is still not around to explain things.'The drumming is how we talk,' laughs Flex. 'All men should know the beats of their nation. it would solve a lot of problems if everyone communicated better. 'Sides, when there is a party, you gotta invite the clan.'Shabra smiled, 'Well, Mr Renyke, best people like you n me stay well away from their *'shroom parties. I heard they last days and you can lose your mind for good at an urchs' party.'Flex was born in the zones. He has no other cultural experiences to call upon but he has developed excellent survival skills and is even respected by people outside of his tribe. In terms of hierarchy, Flex is more of a maverick operator preferring to avoid familial obligations or social ties. He is also something of a diplomat and his height and sense of humour have made him affable and connected over the years.There is a network of invisible tunnels under all the zones from the now unused underground trains.Some of the tunnels are better than others regarding safety and usability. Some of these areas are used as habitats. The territory and ownership of tunnel zones are fiercely fought over and protected.There is no downtime in the zones. Many businesses run all night so they keep their spot. Market traders sell their wares using shift workers and can pack their goods away quickly when there is trouble between gangs.What if we go right? Asked Renyke, now having second thoughts about his safety in the main street.'That's the savanna, explains Shabra. It is safer from the gangs but you might get eaten by wild animals. Those mutant pigs are bad news.''I saw one once, said Flex, 'Swear it had two heads and the biggest mouth I ever saw.''Or die from the noxious substances from old mines, 'said Shabra excitedly.'Or get bombarded by low-flying craft from the *contras trying to keep us out the greenbelt.' Replies Flex.‘OK, OK!' said Renyke, sighing and trying to process everything.There are caves where there is safety from the animals and there are connecting wet tunnels and lagoons but these have never been mapped correctly. Word of mouth is the only reference but survivors are few.There are tribes of people from the savanna who have made their homes there but are rarely seen. They are deemed reasonably placid as they have never caused any trouble elsewhere. They are rumoured to be shy, excellent hunters, highly superstitious and have been thought to possess witchlike powers.There is an urban myth that an old *Centre for Strategic Warfare lies beneath the savanna and that the tribes who live there, with access to hi-tech equipment, scramble satellite information allowing them to be hidden.The road ahead leads directly back to the *Midcast Projects from where Renyke originally came.Beyond the projects are the government departments, airports, factories and centres of information. Further still are the palaces and homes of the very wealthy. The *midcasts are medium to high-wage earner homes with schools and facilities for professionals and academics.The way that mainstream society is structured in the Midcast Projects is based on a capitalist idea of perfection: consistent intelligent innovation, a placid keen and able workforce, all the while protecting the ownership of the means of production for as few empowered individuals or corporations as possible.There is very little opportunity for upward social mobility or change. Hard work and study will create a good life for families but becoming wealthy or powerful requires access to the means of production. Governments and landowners are careful not to allow ordinary workers and lower professionals access to these avenues of power and control.The biggest means of production is the Artificial State (or *AS), an interactive media network that is linked to all citizens via implants, household multi-sensory pleasure networks, and domestic or commercial androidsThis network is tightly controlled by a group of related conglomerates, most of whom made their fortune by producing weapons and vaccines.Downtime for workers is spent in the *VR cafes where
In Part 2 of our Japanese soccer series, journalist Dan Orlowitz returns to help us explore how Japan's soccer scene is making waves across the globe! We dive into Samurai Blue's international success, Japanese players shining abroad, and the flow of global talent into the J.League. Plus — how can fans outside Japan actually watch the matches? We've got that covered, too.If you've ever cheered for Japan in the World Cup or wanted to follow J.League stars in Europe, this episode is for you!------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ Past KOJ Sports-Related Episodes ------Meet the J.League ft. Dan Orlowitz (S6E4)Kendo: The Way of the Sword ft. Alexander Bennett, 7th Dan in Kendo (S4E16)The Life of a Sumotori ft. 3-Time Grand Champion Konishiki Yasokichi (S4E10)Talking Sumo ft. Andrew Freud (S1E8)------ About Dan Orlowitz ------Dan's Socials & WritingsJ-Talk Podcast------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!
Welcome to Immersion you have reached Strata 10 Dinfant Trouble (Synthetic Love)We are the abandonedThe ones who roamNever still,we search for homeWe are the orphans of the nightWe fly the high roadsand duck the lowThrough floods and fire,We cry the songsof the gypsy choirSocial norms and culture cannot be underestimated in a world that accepts robots as real and lovable synthetic creatures. Humans do not experience love in the absence of culture and society. In a world where perfect companions are easily manufactured, humans have been seduced by the machine, a synthetic digitised force that enabled the switch from 'otherness' to 'sameness'. In this space, love is seen to flourish. The creators of androids can synthesise the alterity of the robot which seems to make its own decisions to commit, to love back, and to appear to do so willingly.*Dinfants are androids who look like babies or children under five. They were made by a single manufacturer who patented them in the early 22nd century.However, it was found that the early Dinfants (Mark 1s) would not stop learning, and legislation was introduced to secure their removal from circulation and safe destruction. Despite the best authoritarian efforts, at least two thousand early manufactured Dinfants remain unaccounted for.Many humans in the Midcast Projects were lonely and suffered from various forms of infertility. They wanted baby or child droids, especially the Dinfants, who were exact copies of real children designed with variations and specifics to order. These androids were children who never grew up. They stopped learning when they were as knowledgeable as the average human of a similar age.Dinfants, like adult droids, were easy enough to replace or upgrade but some parents had needed counselling for Infant-Loss Depression or *DLD.DLD was a rising concern due to its increased prevalence and its effect on the workforce. It was found that humans could easily fall in love with the outer casings of the dinfants as well as the constructed personalities. Something almost unheard of three generations prior.However, the outer coverings did not last very long, especially if there was an active physical relationship. Ten years of feeding and playing would take its toll on the fabric of the Dinfants. If the parents could not afford repairs, they would soon begin to look worn and dishevelled.Of course, this also applied to adult droids who would usually be upgraded regularly. Droid manufacturers usually offered ongoing upgrades as part of a rental or lease scheme.But some humans fell in love with their droids and had blessing ceremonies. It was not legal to marry a droid because of the financial implications following the death of a human. Legally, droids had similar rights to human children. It was illegal to inflict violence on a droid in public. This was to protect children who may be susceptible to influence. Of course, what goes on behind closed doors was a private affair, provided human children were not presenting behavioural issues that may be connected to patterns of abuse towards androids.Some antique droids lasted the test of time but legislation had been brought in to avoid the hoarding of defunct androids as they posed a threat to contemporary society, for various reasons. There were issues with battery seepage for a start, and then problems of unsupervised regeneration which was a serious crime in the Midcast projects.The government gave upgrade vouchers for defunct or redundant droids and supervised destruction at centralised city plants.'Get that freakin' thing outta here will you!'A man screams to no one in particular.The house is a standard build from the early *Midcast Zone villages. Clean, white, and filled with contemporary fittings and technologies.A child enters the room.‘Mommy! Kairo is following me around.....it's really annoying. And Daddy said we should throw it away. Let's get a new one Mommy, please.My friend has one like a twin sister. One with the hair that grows back so she can cut it and play hairdresser.'The woman sighs.....'I suppose we don't need it any more now you have real friends.I thought you wanted a *ponybot, even better than a sister, don't you think?'The woman strokes her child's cheek and remembers how lost she had been when they first told her it was unlikely she and her *blessed would produce a human offspring.The Mark 1, a Dinfant, made by the *Metacoms Corporation, was a perfect substitute and she had been able to focus love and attention on it. It was a copy of a four-year-old and she had ordered a blue-eyed blond version just like her blessed. It was such a good copy that most people were unaware that it was not a human child.But the software was no longer being updated and the learning algorithm meant it had become too complicated for a convincing child substitute.Also, the Dinfants, by design and default programming, craved love and attention and the Mark 1's constant neediness was an irritant to busy parents. The Dinfants would constantly ask for cuddles and reassurance that their owners wanted and adored them.The Mark 1 enters the room.'Mommy, do you love me? Shall we have a little cuddle? Can you fit me in? Mommy, please, Kairo has a lovely snuggle for you Mommy. Mommy.'Shut up,' screams the woman as the father enters the room and kicks Kairo hard.The Dinfant lies on the floor crying loudly with a broken arm.'Please Mommy and Daddy Please, Kairo needs cuddles, please Mommy and Daddy...please, love for Kairo, please……'The little girl holds her hands to her ears, shouting, 'It's so annoying!'The man picks Kairo up and turns his power switch off.'Let's get rid of it. Put it in the garage. I will sort out a collection for it tomorrow,' said the woman.The man takes the Dinfant outside but decides to put it in a liner and into the communal waste shoot. The shoot serves hundreds of dwellings, no one would trace it back to them and he can always say it was stolen from the garage. He is concerned about the breakage as it will affect the insurance. It is better to make a theft claim than to have Metacoms say he had damaged it on purpose.A man tinkers in a workshop. He is observing the collection of children and babies that are hung on the walls as he cradles a new package, as yet unopened.'Well my little lovelies, one of you must go. I have a brand new friend who is going to join us for fun and games. Her name is Mary.'The man, wide-eyed and excited, unwraps the new child droid.'Well, ain't you the prettiest lil girl I ever saw?' he says touching her skin.'And don't that feel just so real'.The Droid replies, 'Hello Daddy. I'm such a daddy's girl,' she chuckles.The man looks around the room.He picks up a toddler droid, a Mark 1 copy of an eighteen-month-old baby boy.'Well Daniel, I guess I am all done with you. You are a bit small after all.'The man opens the back of the droid's head and takes out the battery pack.'But daaaadddddddyyyyyyy……'He places the incapacitated droid in a bag and under the cloak of darkness, deposits it into a waste unit in the public park.***There is a black cloud above and rain falls on a large mountain of waste.Another load is released fro
Welcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 9Lust and Loins (Limerence)Limerence is a uniquely human phenomenon that new lovers, potential lovers, and sometimes even strangers, may experience. Limerence is a state of mind (not solely romantic) that typically includes persistent, sometimes depressing thoughts, and a deep yearning for the object of one's affection. It can be easily confused with love. Often human beings can find themselves addicted to these obsessive feelings and can easily be overwhelmed by adoration for another human being. Limerence cannot be turned on and off like a machine. It can come from nowhere and disappear without logic. The experience of this sensory state is proven to be inspiring, connective, unifying, disruptive, and even excruciating, yet it continues to mark the human trajectory of existence through time and place.'Good *dundeal Mr. Renyke Man.' said Flex excitedly.''We leave at dark, mind,' said Shabra. 'Take some time for food and rest. You might need your strength. I will get food.' Renyke watched her take weapons from the vehicle, knives and a small crossbow.The group is in an enclosure flanked by half-deconstructed concrete walls. There are large metal containers lying around with shrubbery and foliage trying to make a stand against the manmade environment. Tumbleweed played in the soft wind searching for a home.Maybeline scurried around searching for food and sniffing the air. She could smell something sinister, the scent of danger, as Renyke studied her movements.Flex kicked some redundant ashes by an upturned metal water tank. 'I can make us a fire,' he said, taking a pocket full of old rusty lighters and tinder from one of his huge pockets. His brightly coloured patchwork overcoat seemed to store an abundance of useful things. There were small pieces of mechanical paraphernalia, vintage innards from antique items, little motors, motherboards and old PC parts. There were secret pockets and compartments for weapons and a waterproof lining held everything together.‘Do you take this stuff everywhere you go?' asked Renyke.‘Yes sir-ee, some days *man'dun gotta make *swapsie-trade. .And other days, well, there are enemies and they kill for the fun of it. Everything has a use in the Zones brother. You learn that quick here.Maybeline found a water flow from a pipe tucked in the grass and took a long drink.Renyke began to pace, 'Shabra is taking her time,' he said, standing near the opening of the enclosure.‘She'll come, she is huntin' tis all my friend. You got attached already?'Renyke stared at Flex and mumbled, ‘We need that ride.'Then he checked POS whose signal was intermittent.'.......What are the signs of being attracted to somebody?'POS took a moment to compile a response……..……Do you mean human responses?'……yes, yes, of course ‘humans', Renyke replied.'POS continued…..nervousness around the subject of the attraction,…..extended thoughts about the subject,…..obsessive thoughts beyond normal curiosity about the subject,…..insomnia due to obsessive considerations of the subject,…..anxiety over possible outcomes of imaginary scenarios involving the subject,…..a desire to touch the intimate parts of the subject,…..dreams about the subject,…..fantasy building scenarios between the human and the subject,…..being overly concerned about….‘Enough,' said Renyke, irritated with the voice in his head.Finally Shabra returned.She carried two dead rabbits in her belt and washed a wide glinting blade under the water that flowed from the broken pipe.‘This water's good. Your rat is a good scout for provisions. We can fill up the tanks and flask before we go.'The new acquaintances are relaxed and considering preparation for the short but dangerous car journey to the *Edge.Shabra checked the vehicle mechanics, the doors and metal buttresses worked in perfect synch and there were six exhausts. She filled the water kegs and put them in the boot.‘Where is the vehicle from?' Asked Renyke.‘I built it,' answered Shabra, 'from scratch. 'Well, I had several wrecks and put my beaut together.Me n her, we like lovers. She drives me crazy with her vibes.'Shabra looked at Renyke parting her lips into a wry smile. They were oily from the fat of the meal.She winked through long dark lashes.Renyke felt a thump in his heart, a deep penetrating surge of something enthralling.Suddenly there is a distant high-pitched sound, like a siren or swarm. It seems to be getting louder when Flex and Shabra grab Renyke, throwing him into the vehicle.Seconds later they were surrounded by a marauding mass of screaming children. Some were made of broken body parts with human faces, others were small walking babies with burnt skin. Some had extra limbs and even two heads. They were crying and screeching, banging toy drums and chanting verses.One of them seemed to be the leader and he leapt onto Shabra's bonnet. The noise was deafening. to be continued© 2025 Sarnia de la Mare
Welcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 8 Shabra (Laws of Attraction)Sexual attraction for humans is dictated by a reflex to engage in intimacy with others. This phenomenon can be influenced by physical cues alone, the way a human looks, moves, speaks and so on.Romantic attraction may be described as deeper and yet may still be instantaneous, spurred on by feelings of wanting a relationship with another.These two desires may appear together in a deep power of attraction.The psychology of attraction is most peculiar to humans. It is not possible to create this phenomenon in machines whose methods of attraction use logical conditions to draw entities towards them. Predefined targets for machine attention avoid accidents, although machines are notorious for repeatedly targeting their attention on non compliant humans.Likewise, human attraction is usually nonreciprocal. A machine programmed to give a human all it needs will often reap better results. But when dealing with human desires, neither machine nor human can ever guarantee positive results.Jerome breaks an awkward silence, 'No *ishy, brother,' He stamped on another Scritter. 'Damn those nasty little *mudafinks!'Renyke exits the concrete compound with Flex running anxiously behind.The *robo-dog had waited patiently at the entrance and began wagging its tail and leaping around.Renyke spots some graffiti with the Redact logo near an underpass. Maybeline crawled out of his coat and nudged his cheek for food.'You sure you did the right thing brother?' asked Flex, who was now feeling agitated. His naive friend was likely to lead him into trouble. Perhaps it was time to take charge of the matter.'Wheels is speed, wheels is protection my friend. We gonna stand out like *fucksyfools on the streets. People gonna target us! Words spread fast.' Flex explained still half running to keep pace.'I can manage quite well,' said Renyke, 'You don't need to .......' Renyke trails off, distracted by a woman on the car roof.She glanced over at Renyke.'Oh well let's just go and ask her for her car then' said Flex.'Are you mocking me?'Renyke was genuinely unsure. He had always grappled with humour. Incongruous remarks always had to be analysed closely. A false analysis could be incompatible with overall provision of human satisfaction, which was paramount to his function in the world.Mabel had used the word *nuke about some of her friends.'I believe the woman to be nuke, explained Renyke, continuing with some confidence.She exhibits a powerful energy, enough to engage a compelling force as I look upon her.'Hahahahahaha.....' laughed Flex, that will make things worse, trust me, I have knowledge....'Follow me,' he tutted, reluctantly leading the way.The woman was sitting on the roof of the car smoking a pipe and making smoke rings.Renyke felt a momentary surge of something unknown deep inside him. Was it fear he wondered, Trepidation?Things were not computing.He checked POS for his health levels....Normal activity presenting. 99.9% battery remaining. Nothing unusual to report.But Renyke felt a strange fluttering feeling in his belly.The woman sitting on the car whistled. 'Hey!''Like the coat! Cool *toggies. You wanna *swapsie-trade?'The woman jumped off the car and lifted her fist for an air bump followed by an elbow bump, then a salute. Renyke tried to keep up but was cumbersome. He had seen these manoeuvres in old films on the *tellywebs but he had never actually performed them.*'Wappens?' asked the woman in a strong accent.' Renyke guessed what she meant and said,'I need transport, not far, just to Redact, do know that place?'The woman laughed.....'Man like you, looks way too soft for the *guanty-travel.'Renyke checks POS...'gaunty-travel'......colloquial, Zoners' slang roughly translates as a very dangerous journey..'But I can take to the second zone, five miles nearer, then you gotta make your own ways,' she continues.'What you go by?' she asks.Renyke looked confused.......'I'm Shabra. Lady of the Shadows, where I go no light follows, ya hear me soldier? I travel at night where there are no lights.''I'm Renyke,' he said, trying to decipher the poetry.You wanna swapsie-trade the coat, or you got me somtin sweeta? I take *nibs, *bits…….1000 *G-bits and you got me hired. But I like that coat too.''It's a good deal man, said Flex, 'good deal, five miles is five miles. We come too, me n the dog! I got no ties to this street.'Flex looks at Shabra who sighs, ‘Yeah, yeah, whoever, no *pipin' in my *vicular though.'Renyke knows that Flex could be useful, and the robodog too. It was obedient and would do as it was told.
Yesterday I shared on social media that over the next 30 days, I'll be sharing stories of the people I've had the deep honour of walking beside. This is where this pull began. On Monday I parked my car at the gym on my way to Spin class. As I walked, I was reflecting on the fact that often we risk it all (our identity and safety) in the process of our becoming. It hit me emotionally and my eyes went teary. I noticed this. Then later that day as I was writing my notes to self, that feeling came back and I began writing, person after person in the third person, starting with “There is nothing more I love than walking with people who”. At the fourteenth person, the vision of this 30 days of honouring came and I said yes. Please enjoy Day 1 of honouring someone who is indeed living a very happy and authentic life. May you see yourself, or the possibility of yourself, in them. If you feel to explore coaching, the options are: For new clients: A 3 month 1 on 1 Immersion leading up to the Mastermind and the yearlong group program My Best Year Yet (we can feel into what's best for you) For former clients: A 2 month 1 on 1 Immersion, the 4 month Harvest Program or My Best Year Yet. Please email at gisele@giselegambi.com.au or message me through Facebook if you'd like to explore. Please also join The Intuitive Pull Facebook Group here.
Episode Summary In this episode, I'm sharing why virtual just isn't enough—and why in-person events have been one of the biggest game changers in my business. As a former middle school teacher turned seven-figure entrepreneur, I didn't have the flexibility to travel and speak at conferences when I first started. So instead of waiting for someone to invite me to the stage, I created my own. Hosting workshops gave me the confidence, content, and connection I needed to build my brand—and it can do the same for you. I'm walking you through the real difference between virtual and in-person experiences, including the live coaching, immersive focus, and powerful networking that only happens when you're in the room. If you're trying to decide whether attending or hosting a live event is worth the investment, this episode breaks it all down. I also give you an inside look at the 7-Figure Bestseller Summit—an exclusive, one-day workshop where I'll personally coach you through writing your book and building a monetized brand. If you've been feeling the limitations of Zoom and you're ready for real momentum, this episode is your invitation to get in the room. Key Takeaways: In-person > virtual: You can't replicate live coaching, energy, or connections in a breakout Zoom room. Experience creates transformation: Attending live events collapses your learning curve and increases execution speed. Immersion beats information: Virtual learning often leads to procrastination; in-person environments allow for focused implementation. Strategic networking happens in hallways: Some of the most powerful collaborations and contracts are born during lunch breaks, not during keynotes. Not all events are created equal: Choose experiences with fewer speakers, more access, and a clear framework for action. Jasmine's recommendation: Every entrepreneur should host at least one live event a year, even a small workshop, to build authority and connection. Memorable Quotes: “Virtual gives you information, but in-person gives you implementation—and transformation.” “I got tired of waiting for someone to invite me to the stage… so I built my own.” “You can do more in one day at a focused, in-person event than you can in weeks at home.” “The right room can change your life. Your next opportunity might be one conversation away.” “Live events aren't about performance—they're about strategy, execution, and results.” Secure your ticket for the 7 Figure Bestseller Summit: https://www.jasminewomack.com/summit Connect with Jasmine: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejasminewomack Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjasminewomack YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejasminewomack Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejasminewomack Website: https://www.jasminewomack.com Work with Me: Secure your ticket for the 7 Figure Bestseller Summit: https://www.jasminewomack.com/summit Grab a copy of my book - Published and Paid: Write, Self-Publish, and Launch Nonfiction Book in 90 Days or Less: https://www.jasminewomack.com/published-paid-book Apply to the Published and Paid®️ Mastermind: https://www.jasminewomack.com/mastermindapplication
Welcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 5The Tiger Queen (Memories)To function correctly, humans depend almost entirely upon memories. Memory is an integral part of human cognition. It allows individuals to recall and draw upon past events to frame their understanding of the present. Memory also gives individuals a paradigm through which they make sense of the future. Memories are tried and tested experiences where deep knowledge and understanding are fostered. The future becomes less of an unknown with an arsenal of information based on what we remember. Memory can also be evolutionary, cultural, and non specific, based on a collective experience of tragedy, persecution or success.A machine that remembers too little will not be able to do anything that requires connecting past experiences to new ones. Many droids are prone to catastrophic forgetting as well as over-learning, either leading to gross malfunction. Humans are able to pick and choose their memories for a better life. Even false memories have proven to be advantageous for human emotional balance.Renyke attempted a *face-recog on the woman but the makeup or tattoo caused a data malfunction. Flex, the one with probable knowledge about trusting her had disappeared amongst the crowd.After a lingering interlude for summing up danger, but with no logical conclusion, Renyke followed his guide with some trepidation. The woman was effervescent and attractive, seemingly unfamiliar attributes that Renyke was surprised to have noticed. Such exuberances were not encouraged in the Midcasts but Renyke was inexplicably drawn to her zeal and fervour as she moved through the streets like a tiger queen.Market traders were selling an array of live animals, electronic devices, even workers by the hour for a range of uses from labouring, singing and even sexual services.Renyke was feeling confused at the evidence before him. Things did not seem logical to his organised brain. The noise, the intensity, a million unrelated instances of life weaving through time and space. These were chaotic waveforms traveling horseback on a loud wind. It was making him giddy.'What's with the frown Mr?' The woman seemed empathetic.'I don't know, something familiar maybe, here, this street.''I would know if you had graced our streets before my friend.' The woman was staring intently into Renyke's eyes making him feel self conscious. You got stranger written all over that face, let me tell you.'The woman greeted traders and passersby. She was well known here although *POS was not able to ascertain much data.The woman is 20, human,, she has had a child said POS...They arrived at a unit with barricades and metal shutters. It was constructed from an old underground train carriage, probably from the twenty-first century.'Here we go,' said the woman'That's 50 *G-bits for getting you here Mr.''I have to get some money first,' said Renyke'What do I need, I have no ID?''You don't need ID here Mr. This is the *hiddens' zone, the Urchs got no ID. No ID, no problem. This is a very special bank just for people like you.''Well, how do I get money?' asked Renyke, now confused about accessing anything that may be stored in his POS and dubious about sharing his identity.'The woman laughed.'Ya gotta put sometin' up my friend.'Like my coat?' asked Renyke.'Na, not in the bank! Your software, course, or hardware, or files, whatever.....just plug in, give some data, get some g-bits innit. They take apps, software, POS.....Day to Day Data..... is their wayta..........hahahahaha.'The woman cackled then sighed, observing Renyke's discomfort.'I'll take you in OK, I know the banker.'Renyke pondered the likelihood of a successful solo effort and nodded in agreement.The woman bashed on the metal door and a hatch opened.'It's me, Queenie, got a client for ya big guy.'Dark peering eyes checked them up and down through a small rectangle.'Not the animals', said a loud booming voice after tentatively opening a heavily armoured door.Inside was well guarded by large-framed menacing characters. They were standard issue security droids, the like of older versions that had been discontinued and recalled then disassembled and officially disposed of. Security in the Midcasts was controlled by forcefields and lasers with little need for big ugly droids.Renyke was ushered into a small cubical with an array of plugs and wires.The woman gestured he should go in as she waited near the door under the watchful eye of the droid.POS was glitching.Everything in the cubical looked antiquated, probably from the early tech years.There was a chair and Renyke was motioned to sit down.He hesitated.'How does this work?' He asked a large droid.The droid seemed stupefied, slow and sluggish, as if he had been drained of power. He spoke slowly with slurred words. There were intermittent beeping noises and error warnings coming from inside his head.'Here is the current exchange rate,' said the droid, pointing to a monitor with flashing figures. 'As soon as you are plugged in, we see what you got and make an offer. Then we transfer. You get a voucher here.'He pointed to a small printing machine, 'then take it over there and get g-bits or s bits.'There were hundreds of wires and plugs seemingly for extracting and monitoring every device from the last couple of centuries. Anything from antique video machines to digital clocks, and hundreds of handset devises seemed to have a lead on offer.Renyke spotted the Mark 3 Droid Cable and shuddered.He checked his applications. Then all the add-ons. He checked for any temp files he could get rid of. Then he checked POS and asked if there was a clean-up they could run.System is currently set to factory install. Removing program files or data could be detrimental to smooth function....this action is not supported.....More searching......then finallyOne file foundUnknown originPossible memory file from last OSAppears surplus to current operational needs but I am unable to access file contentsThe big droid began clicking its fingers slowly and grimacing. His equally thug-like colleague approached and joined in.The woman, looking restless by the door, ushered Renyke to hurry upCan we operate without it? Renyke asked POS'There is a possibility, according to my calculations, of serious malfunctionThe droids moved closer and the clicking intensified.to be continued©2025 Sarnia de la Mare
Welcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 7Jarome and the Scritters, (Trade and Barter) Humans have developed uniqueness from animals through a process of cognitive evolution. They are exceptional cultural learners and can read situations. These skills have enabled them to develop complex trading tools. They rely heavily on these skills to create abstract cerebral and linguistic representations when placing themselves in various situations.The cultural and socio-political environment in which humans have evolved has led them to acquire the cognitive skills, particularly mathematical, to support a sophisticated disposition along with a capacity for reciprocal cooperation. Humans understand conceptual ideas of property and exchange value. Humans are savvy, humans broker deals.Outside there was an optimistic sun and the people busied around the market unaware of any of the commotion that had occurred in the bank.*POS informed Renyke that he had lost negligible battery power and there was no damage to his mechanical structures.The *robot-dog and the cat had waited patiently outside the bank and now trotted diligently at their sides.Maybeline returned to Renyke's pocket for a nap.'You got my *bits?' asked the woman'For nearly getting us killed?' Asked Renyke contemplating the difference between, irony, sarcasm and humour. POS began to explain but Renyke shut her out. He really did not want to know at this juncture.'Listen Mr whoever you are, there's many a hiccup ahead. You are in the *zones now, you need to get used to the hiccups. 'Sides, I gotta feed my cat. She ain't no robot like that mutt.'The robo-dog gave a little yelp and lowered its head in shame.Queenie's cat moved closer to Renyke and sniffed the air for any scent of lunch.Renyke took something from the bag, the smallest nugget he could find, and handed it to Queenie. 'That is very generous of you,' she said, taking the payment and subtly raising an eyebrow with the tiniest of smiles. The payment was excessive and the cat would eat for a month. Renyke was none the wiser. Then Queenie was gone, running into the crowds as lithe as the cat behind her. A blue feather shimmied to the ground. For some reason Renyke was compelled to pick it up and put it in his pocket and Maybeline wrapped it around herself. Back on the main street Flex approached smiling and jaunty. Renyke was reassured to see him.'I need a vehicle Flex, something to get me to where I am going,' said Renyke.'Yes, yes, yes Mr. Leather Man, where you goin' is where I'm goin'. Let's find a veee-hicle. Jerome, he is the car man, he got cars, and bikes and *scoots..... and *copters, and airships so they say.''Take me to Jerome,' said Renyke.****Flex took Renyke into a disused concrete building as the robo-dog curled up and waited outside.There are the echoes of voices, activity and motor engines being revved from another part of the building. There is a smell of fuel and mumbled communications. Somewhere too there is music.Flex beckoned Renyke to Jerome's office, a ramshackle room filled with books. More books than Renyke had ever seen. Books were no longer used in most homes or schools and the paper shortages after the warmings had meant that they were no longer being produced commercially. Paper had become heavily taxed and there were also problems with scritters. Scritters were large crawling insects that had been genetically made in a laboratory by the Russian military. They were a fusion of a cockroach and a wasp but there wings had become lost in the process. *Scritters were highly protective and thus easily trained.They looked deformed with big insect heads and metal body parts. At birth scritters are born with a soft back. They seek protection from any material that offers a hard shell. Because of the huge landfill areas all around the world, the rubbish of hundred's of years had provided the perfect materials for protection. Plastics and metals were abundant. During the Russia China wars scritters had been used to carry tiny incendiary divides on their backs were not affected by the nerve gases. But after the wars, the scritters had bred like wildfire, devouring paper and trees and nesting in book spines where the glue offered a perfect cocoon for pupae. Whole libraries had been mutilated by them. They were a scourge on the planet and another reason so many houses were built on stilts in the *Midcast Projects as scritters were terrified of heights.The more paper they ate, the more they reproduced. Books and paper matter that had not been digitally copied had been devastated and lost forever.'A car you say?' asked Jerome. 'I got plenty, but the fuel....we got no fuel. We are working on some alternatives, but all prototypes so far. They cut off our fuel after the riots. And the food supplies. I have been missing Gummies, I loved those.'Renyke nodded as Jerome continued....'Transport is a big problem. You'll be better off walking, my friend, if you can get through the tunnels. But there are booby traps all around the perimeters here in the zones.'Renyke checks POS for details but the tunnels are unchartered. POS seemed to be struggling with connection and was operating intermittently.'I have a hybrid cart,' continued Jerome. 'It runs on solar but only for about 3 hours per full charge if you do under 40km. And if it is a cloudy day, an hour. I can let you take it for 3000 G-bits. It won't get off the ground without jet fuel but it can drive on flat ground well enough. It doesn't hold the road well, but if you are a good driver, it won't be an issue.' Renyke is unsure of his driving skills and POS was glitching again. This man was rambling on and Renyke needed facts urgently. It was hard to know what was important without POS.'Can you drive?' Renyke asked Flex.Flex laughed... 'Of course I can.'A scritter crawls across the floor and Jerome stamps on it. A black tar oozes from under his foot.Jerome sees Renyke might be changing his mind about the deal. 'I will take TELL You got some TELL?"POS gets a signal.........*TELL: abbreviation of Tellurium, found in copper ore. Used in mobile phones, especially older versions where it was added to other metals improving their strength and hardness and reducing corrosion. Rare due to demise of traditional copper mines. Renyke begins to feel confused about whether to get the vehicle and asks POS.I am not programmed to have opinions. I do not have access to data about the vehicle, it has no computerised system. The seller seems to be shield protected. But Redact is within easy walking distance for a Mark 3.Renyke looks at Flex and then at Jerome. A scritter is crawling up his boot and he throws it off with a kick. He feels a rising panic and a thumping in his chest which he does not recognise. Why was it so important that he not make a mistake? Why was he not able to understand the virtue or danger of the exchange? Finally, Renyke says, 'I will walk.'Jerome shrugged his shoulders and stamped on another scritter mumbling, 'time waster' under his breath.Flex, looking aghast, sighed.to be continued,© 2025 Sarnia de la Mare#jarome #scritters
Welcome to Immersion, you have reached Strata 4The Zoners (Meeting Strangers)There is an old saying, from when the world had stories made of paper, that you cannot judge a book by its cover. But sometimes, without metadata, the cover is all you have to show the secrets within. Humans understand that a person's demeanour and outward profile can reveal something of their intent. There is a sort of human telepathy that is not bourn of scientific facts. It is intrinsic, passed down through culture and evolution, a hidden and secretive code of social understanding.But how would an android make sense of the tiny signals that humans pick up on? The millions of minute evolving syntax and expressions that create conscious and subconscious feelings and hunches. These are essential to humans but less easy to create or mimic in even advanced computerised systems. How do these assumptions translate across time and cultures? How do machines function successfully within complex human scenarios. Strangers are unpredictable, dangerous, and likely to be in control.A deeper understanding of the unknown without evidence is the ability to immediately resonate with individuals without reason.. It would seem that the bigger the data the less the machines are able to explain these innate human idiosyncrasies. In the attempt to create a facsimile of a human, the machines move further away from the truth. Renyke kicked the *robo-dog and it went flying high up into the air. It fell to the ground with a metallic crash scattering its parts asunder and making mechanical screeching sounds that made people stare.There was a general momentary hush as everyone realised Renyke should be avoided.Maybeline climbed inside the leather coat to keep out of any ensuing danger.The robo-dog made several bleeping sounds and drew its broken metallic components back onto its magnetic mainframe. Finally, after a 30-second system reboot, it got up and shook its fake hair, once again assembling a near perfect dog. As Renyke walked on the dog remained at heel, obedient, quiet, and protective. They were now given room to move into the throng. No one made eye contact and as if by some telepathic communication, everyone shared a nervousness around the new stranger.The dodgy-looking man offering bits and nibs reappeared and was running at Renyke's side.'My name is Flex. You need anything, man, I got your back....for sure, for sure. I can do all sorts. I got *connects innit.I know these streets. I'm a good worker. Good mugger too, should you ever need one.'Got drugs, got tools, all sorts.... survived like a pro all my life on the mean streets…. People like you need people like me. No one knows the zones like us *urchs.'Renyke walked on ignoring his now irritating companion who was running, flanking left to right, talking, and panting all at once as he tried to keep up.A child approached. Renyke's scanners showed him to be a human boy, around seven years old.'Hey Mr. Nice Man from the *brightside, spare some *bits for a hungry blind child?'Renyke looked down and saw a large black hole where the boy's eye had been. The other eye was weepy and red. The boy's face was scarred from historic deep-cut wounds and he appeared to be missing an arm.Renyke had seen images of similar wounds from the *Russia-China wars. But they had ended many years before.'Give the boy something,' Renyke scowled at Flex.Flex, somewhat wary after seeing the incident with the dog, dug deep into a pocket and reluctantly gave the boy a *bit-piece.'Now *fucksyoff ya lil shit,' said Flex in a disgruntled manner.'You can't trust these beggars ya know.....they have owners and gangs,' Flex informed Renyke in a hushed all-knowing tone.The street was lined with ramshackle stalls and shops. They were noisy and crowded with the bustling activities of theatrical looking people. Some had animals on leads or on their shoulders. Monkeys and parrots, the like of which Renyke had never come across in his massive data bass.Most had tribal markings on their faces. Others wore decorated eyewear, styled spectacles, masks and headgear.The attire seemed so impractical to Renyke who had always worn the same clothes and had aspired to a streamlined functionality. But he was rather enjoying his new coat.A woman approached. She was dressed in bright colourful headgear and boots with huge feathers and sequins. She had some kind of cat on a lead.Renyke engaged POS focusing on the cloth.…*Pertriline: Brand name for a fabric made from plastics. Non-biodegradable. Colourfast. Banned in 2050. Problematic for any practical landfill solutions....Then he queried the face coverings....…It is thought likely that tribal face markings in the zones are used mostly to avoid face recognition from satellites and covert surveillance. Different factions, tribes and even ad hoc groups have adopted more uniform styles which signal gang and other connections. These signals change regularly to avoid detection and discovery. It is understood that the underground activities that connect tribes, gangs, and families, have adopted coded clothing and other paraphernalia. Information is unconfirmed….these are theoretical assumptions based on data stripped whenever possible from prisoners or members of subversive factions….The woman with the cat stops Renyke in his tracks. Her cat stares at him making eye contact and edging forward. Renyke also stops.'Hey, Mr. Come on man, you must need something? You want some *toggies? I swap the coat for a nice jacket I got me just yesterday.'Renyke shook his head with one eye on the cat who was looking restless.'You want some tits-n-ass maybe.....food? Man you look hungry in yo skinny moves.'Renyke side stepped the woman and continued walking, not really sure what she meant. The dialect was a strange mix of unknown words and rhythmic intonation, almost songlike.'A bank maybe, or a charge point?' Shouted the woman as Renyke moved on.He stopped suddenly and queried, 'There's a bank?''Of course,' said the woman, 'what you take us for, wild ignorant animals?' She laughed hysterically at her own joke, and Renyke smiled. The cat finally stopped staring.'Yes, I need a bank,' Said Renyke.'Come with me,' said the woman.to be continued...© Sarnia de la Mare
Welcome to Immersion You have reached strata 3Flex and the Robo-Dog (Making Decisions)Decisions are the cusp between reality and possibility. Decisive actions create a continuously evolving universe for sentient beings where fate can immobilise actions and defeat progress. The decision-makers hold power over themselves, and, more often than not, over others.Androids programmed to learn can aid decision-making when dealing with complex data, intricate parameters, and variables that surpass human understanding.Often they excel at making accurate choices within their defined boundaries. However, an android will not excel in addressing intangibleaspects of human decision-making. Ethical dilemmas, moral considerations, and other human factors that significantly influence our lives and shape society are neither considered nor understood by a machine.Maybeline was sitting on Renyke's shoulder cleaning herself. Renyke collected bugs from the alley and analysed their chemical and biological structure.There was a bag next to where he had woken, a large backpack, beside a long leather coat. Renyke took some time to look in the bag attempting to remember how he had arrived in the alley. Nothing seemed familiar.'What are all these things?' he asked POS.These are standard-issue SAS munitions from the 21st century.....It occurred to Renyke that he could interrogate POS for more information.'Why am I here?Where have I come from?'There was a long pause before POS answered....I do not have access to that information. My software was set to launch when we arrived. There is no accessible historical data at my disposal...Catching himself in a window reflection Renyke put on the dark glasses he had found in the pocket of the coat.'We look pretty good Maybeline,' he remarked, surprised by his unfamiliar vanity.Mabeline nestled into Renyke's neck as they left the relative safety of the alley and entered the foreboding street.They were in the centre of a busy metropolis. There was a lot of activity with people shouting, bartering goods and moving quickly about the place. There were small groups of brightly dressed individuals congregating around stationary vehicles. Some were smoking pipes. Small hazy clouds hovered above them trapping the weak rays of the sun. The towering semi-derelict buildings created shadowy corners where small fires provided more light and warmth.The vehicles appeared to be a mix of old-fashioned motorised cabins from transportation systems and helicopters. There were some long-legged hybrids; electric solar-engine mashups that looked like menacing metal insects.Renyke's detectors showed the air comprised mostly of oxygen with low levels of other chemicals: chlorine, sulphur, silicone, fluorine polymers and plasticisers.'Hey, dude from the *Brightside, you want some *nibs?'A man hovered expectantly, somewhat close for comfort. He looked dishevelled but alert as he checked all directions avoiding eye contact with Renyke.Renyke checked POS for 'nibs'.......A drug used by nearly half the world's population that creates euphoria and doubles strength for a limited period. Overdose can cause temporary and permanent coma. Long-term effects; brain rot......'How much?' asked Renyke, whose algorithm was set to absorb all information about humans.'I can do you a deal' said the man, '50 *bits.... Or the Rat'.Renyke checked POS for *bits......Bits: street talk for gold, silver, uranium and other metal nuggets used in the black and grey economy without government authority....'I have no bits,' said Renyke.'Hahahahahaha'.........' see you in hell brother!' shouted the man as he danced away on long legs and a demeanour that seemed at odds with his situation.In the *midcasts, happiness came with security and expectation. digital and technological lives were formatted for predictability and reliability. The present and the future were reliable and predictable. Although Renyke was struggling to remember the details of his purpose here,, he knew very well that this place was different.A large flamboyant man in a fur coat whistled.'Hey girly, you want some dirty action? I'll take that rodent off your hands if you need some sexy time.'A warning comes from POS......Danger! Immediate! Ground Level!....A *robo-dog was barking loudly at Maybeline who was now snarling and making a shrieking noise.For a fraction of a second Renyke analysed all the variables and consequences of his next actions.The options were endless. POS had created a fleeting map of the most probable scenarios and outcomes that sprawled a multidimensional time map like a mathematical cobweb. Of course, Renyke, with his advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, was able to analyse in the tiniest fraction of time.He could immobilise the robo-dog, tame it and use it, sell it, break it up, separate its useful component parts, analyse its database for information, absorb its operating system, or, he could simply ignore it.Renyke began to ponder his skill set remembering that he was an excellent chess player. Single decisions about actions that he could make foresaw a million possibilities. Theoretically, this allowed for finely tuned activities and performance with very little or zero harm caused to his previous owners. Indeed, this forward-thinking ability had marked machines as superior in operation to humans who were narrow thinkers and only able to make selfish and immediate decisions based on emotional desires without reference to consequences.The robo-dog opened its mouth and bit Renyke's ankle.to be continued...© 2025 Sarnia de la Mare
Welcome to Immersion. You have reached Strata 6 Trouble at the Bank (Animal Instincts) The instinct to fight has been observed in both humans and animals. Dominance protects vulnerable species from harm. Neural circuits of rage, anger, and violence exist because humans and animals need them to protect offspring, and to secure food, drink, and safety. But to be aroused or entertained by violence is more particular to humans than other species. Some humans have even fetishised the power of winning: they seek it out and are physically stimulated by it. This pleasure in violence, along with the thrill of danger, comes from a deep innate human psychology. It is linked to a desire for competition, thrills, and excitement, as well as the promise of adrenaline which humans find stimulating. Androids do not experience pleasure in this way. They do not experience the effects of pleasure chemicals, like dopamine, or a motivational salience which can lead to the desirability of an outcome. All androids however have been programmed to protect an asset or assets at all costs. Often these goals will result in violent acts. But the excitement of a fight remains uniquely human and is a self motivated, self fulfilling exhilaration often irrespective of intellectual advancement. The oversized droid tried to nudge Renyke into the chair. This small movement, a deliberate, forceful action, raised alarm bells. This droid and this place were dangerous. POS was now completely unresponsive. The Droids were staring intently, too close for comfort. The finger clicking was getting even more intense. Renyke took a few moments to compose himself. 'I seem to have made a mistake,' said Renyke, 'I have nothing to exchange after all.' Queenie, looking worried near the door, demanded access to leave. 'Let me out, this is not my affair,' she said to the door guard who had stopped her exit with his thick arm. She kicked his shin and he laughed. 'That just tickles,' he said, bending down and scowling in her face, too close for comfort. Still nothing from POS...... Renyke realised he was on his own. This was new. total autonomy was not possible for artificially created learning machines. There was alway a system in place. The system was paramount to seamless function. One of the droids got closer to Renyke and explained, 'You gotta have something useful for your friends at the bank. We like useful things. Must be something nice you got for the banker.' The other droid looked at Renyke's bag. 'What's in the bag?' he said moving forward to remove it from Renyke's shoulder. Maybeline crawled out onto Renyke's collar snarling and spitting. She was screeching violently and standing on her hind legs. 'We take anything, old phones even. Anything with data, or storage, or files, photos, NFTs. We take hardware too, your bank is really *frienly. The watch looks tasty. We like watches at the bank. Don't we like watches?' His thick-set assistant nodded, wires and cogs vibrated inside a hole in his cheek. Suddenly POS was available again and activated defence and attack modes. Renyke engaged his bionics and with lightning speed, head butted the first droid who flew back and smashed the other's head with the force of a truck. Cogs crushed and whirred and they both hit the floor. Maybeline screeched and began removing wires from orifices in the droids heads.. Then she stood victorious on her hind legs looking around for another victim. Human, age 48, ID: possibly David Shrewen, wanted for murder, extortion, fraud, by *CASM A short well dressed man approached trying to calm the situation. He lifted his hands in surrender. He was nervous without the protection of his now defunct droids. The Door guard held the female guide by the neck and she was screaming, 'Let us go we're no trouble honest, no trouble!' 'Quiet', said the door guard squeezing her neck tighter and choking her. 'My name is David Shrewen and I have a reputation to uphold. One of professionalism and integrity. I must apologise for my overzealous staff.' He put his hand out to shake Renyke's hand. Shall I lock weapons on target? asked POS. Renyke engaged an army-issue laser bolt-gun in his hand that would take out the whole room and anyone in it. He would prefer not to use it but he pointed it at Shrewen's face fixing a menacing stare. 'Duuuuude, we got no ishy here. No ishy, just data. A misunderstanding my friend?' Said Shrewen. 'Drop the lady!' Shouted Renyke, 'we are leaving.' 'Let them go', shouted Shrewen, without hesitation and putting on a brave friendly smile. The door guard released Queenie, as the banker backed off with his hands still in the air. Renyke reversed his way towards the door watching the room through his the 360-degree embedded viewfinder. There was a bag on the counter. ...Contains bits, may I suggest we take it.....? said POS Renyke grabbed the bag. It was heavy. The Banker protested. 'Not the whole bag man ......I got bills to pay!' Renyke pulled out a handful of the contents and threw the bag on the floor. He didn't need it all, enough to get some kind of vehicle to get him to Redact. The last thing he wanted was a gang of stupid droids after him in this Hell hole. They might hold him up. The banker was yelling as Renyke and Queenie took their exit. Shrewen was shouting as they made their way back through the market, 'You got some neat tools man, we could use you at the bank!'
What if reality is not what it seems? In this mind-expanding episode of Impact Theory, Tom Bilyeu sits down with entrepreneur, MIT grad, investor, and bestselling author Rizwan Virk, known for his work on simulation theory and the intersection of technology, consciousness, and spirituality. Together, they explore profound questions about the nature of existence, consciousness, and whether our universe might be a sophisticated simulation. Virk shares insights from his personal experiences and research, referencing everything from quantum mechanics and near-death experiences to religious metaphors and the immersive power of video games. Tom and Rizwan navigate the philosophical and scientific landscape—debating the nature of the soul, the mysterious coherence of near-death accounts, and the possibility that ancient wisdom might have been trying to communicate truths later echoed by modern technology. SHOWNOTES 04:56 The Nature of the Soul: Debate or Dialogue?13:49 Religious Metaphors: Book of Deeds, Karma, & the Golden Rule22:58 Why Do We Forget Past Lessons? Immersion and the “River of Forgetfulness”37:04 Psychedelics, Altered States, and Perception—Without the Trip49:46 The Three-Body Problem, Sci-Fi as Philosophy, and the Concept of “Sophon”55:19 Multiple Histories, Quantum Physics, and Branching Paths FOLLOW RIZWAN VIRK:Website: https://zenentrepreneur.comTwitter (X): https://twitter.com/RizStanfordInstagram: https://instagram.com/RizCambridge CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Vital Proteins: Get 20% off by going to https://www.vitalproteins.com and entering promo code IMPACT at check out Allio Capital: Macro investing for people who want to understand the big picture. Download their app in the App Store or at Google Play, or text my name “TOM” to 511511. ButcherBox: New users that sign up for ButcherBox will receive their choice between steak tips, salmon, or chicken breast in every box for a year + $20 off their first box at https://butcherbox.com/impact Monarch Money: Use code THEORY at https://monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year! CashApp: Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/v6nymgjl #CashAppPod iRestore:Give yourself the gift of hair confidence this year. For a limited time only, our community is getting a HUGE discount on the iRestore Elite when you use code IMPACT at https://irestore.com iTrust Capital: Use code IMPACTGO when you sign up and fund your account to get a $100 bonus at https://www.itrustcapital.com/tombilyeu Jerry: Stop needlessly overpaying for car insurance - download the Jerry app or head to https://jerry.ai/impact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you are experiencing deep loneliness in your life, whether you're single or not, this episode is for you. Kate shares the most important perspectives and practices to transform your loneliness into deeply satiating love. Loneliness is such a common feeling in the modern world, as people are more disconnected than ever. Learn how to connect on a deeper level, so you'll never feel lonely again. Expanded Love Masterclass - June 23- 27th 8am- 91:5am Pacific https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/masterclasThe Immersion - April 25- May 2, 2026 https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/the-immersionTo book a Free Call to explore working with Kate - click the link below: https://calendly.com/expanded-love/exploration-call-cloneAbout the Host:Kate Harlow is the founder of The Unscriptd Woman, the creator of The Expanded Love Coaching Method, and host of The New Truth podcast - ranked in the top 1.5% globally. With over 15 years of experience teaching, coaching and facilitating transformational retreats worldwide, Kate has helped hundreds of thousands of women break free from outdated relational patterns, old patriarchal ways of thinking and unspoken rules to live by. Her infallible methods guide women to release the deeply ingrained scripts that keep them stuck- empowering women to step into their highest, most magnetic, and fully expressed selves. Through her coaching, retreats, podcast and upcoming book The Unscriptd Woman, Kate is redefining what it means to be an empowered woman in today's world, showing women how to stop waiting for permission and start creating a life and love that aligns with their deepest truth. Known for her rare ability to see exactly where women are out of alignment with themselves, Kate offers a path back to unwavering self- trust, meaningful joy and true fulfillment. Her work is a revolution - one that liberates women from societal expectations and invites them into a life of radical authenticity, thriving relationships and unshakable self-worth. Website: https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/The Immersion in Corfu, Greece April 26- May 3, 2025 https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/the-immersionThanks for listening!It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation with us, head on over to our Facebook group, the New Truth Movement at https://www.facebook.com/groups/209821843509179/ With this podcast, we are building an international community of The New Truth Movement.If you know someone who would benefit from this message or could be an awesome addition to our community, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Follow the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can follow the podcast app on your mobile device. Leave us a reviewWe appreciate every bit of feedback to make this a value-adding part of your day. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest...
Looking for daily inspiration? Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning. Tired of outdated systems holding your attraction back? Gatemaster believes technology is part of the experience, transforming every touchpoint into an opportunity. Imagine seamless online booking, effortless mobile ordering, and data-driven insights at your fingertips. Ready to revolutionize your guest journey and maximize revenue? Power your attraction with Gatemaster. Discover the future at Gatemaster.com. When a new theme park opens, it's more than a ribbon-cutting—it's a generational milestone. With the debut of Universal's Epic Universe, the attractions industry sees its most significant park opening in the United States in over two decades. In this episode, Matt and Josh talk about the immersive design, emotional resonance, operational innovations, and friction points of Epic Universe—reflecting on their respective visits and unpacking the guest experience from both a fan and professional perspective. A Landmark for the Industry “This is the newest major theme park to open, not just in Central Florida but the largest new theme park to open in the country in the last quarter century.” Matt and Josh reflect on how Epic Universe represents a once-in-a-generation event. The sheer scale, technology, and artistic vision mark a pivotal point for theme park development. From Celestial Park's community-like aesthetic to the themed portals, the park feels intentional and deeply considered. The duo also draws parallels between industry advancements and their personal excitement as fans, recognizing that few other sectors experience a $7 billion innovation that also thrills millions of people. Immersion and Emotional Connection “The second I walked through the portal into Nintendo, I felt like I was spit out through the green pipe and I was right in my childhood.” Josh and Matt compare their emotional connections with the IPs represented in Epic Universe's lands. Josh describes how Super Nintendo World transported him back to childhood, while Matt—less attached to the brand—found the land visually stunning even though it was less personally engaging. Both agree that attractions like Stardust Racers and Monsters Unchained push boundaries in guest immersion. Matt praises how Dark Universe's street character Eigor connects thematically to the ride experience, blurring the line between streetmosphere and narrative continuity. Operational Wins and Friction Points “It was the most seamless locker experience I've ever had... until it wasn't.” While Epic Universe delivers next-gen technology like facial recognition lockers and mobile food ordering, not every implementation is flawless. Josh describes a frustrating locker bay issue that caused a substantial delay. Similarly, Matt notes mobile ordering hiccups and virtual queue limitations, particularly for the Ministry of Magic ride. However, both highlight excellent guest service, including a team member in the Isle of Berk who delivered proactive communication and compassion amid uncertain show schedules. The Re-experience Factor “It's a park that is absolutely re-experiencable... you get that repeat visitation feeling.” Matt and Josh both emphasize Epic Universe's lasting impact. It's not just a one-time visit—it's a park that demands exploration over time. With hidden details, evolving guest flow strategies, and high emotional engagement, Epic Universe offers a compelling case study in how to merge immersive storytelling with thoughtful operations. Matt and Josh applaud the Universal team for crafting a park that has already made history. Have you visited Epic Universe? Let us know your thoughts! This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team: Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)
This is Episode 28 of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast. In this episode, Dave and Duff talk with Coach Chris Oliver, a fellow podcaster and the creator and founder of Basketball Immersion, an online masterclass for basketball coaches. Known for his innovative approach to teaching the game, Chris has inspired countless coaches and players worldwide. The interview with Chris was conducted on June 6th Basketball Immersion Want access to the world leader in modern basketball coach education? Contact us today for a very special promo code just for you as a listener to this Podcast: https://basketballimmersion.com/contact (https://basketballimmersion.com/contact-us/) Other Links: Encore Custom Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors. email us at: theruntmcpodcast@gmail.com check out our website at: theruntmcpodcast.com
What if you could experience multiplying disciples principles—not just hear about it? In this episode, we drop into an immersive disciple-making trip in South Florida, where young college students catch fire through firsthand gospel sharing and watching others lead boldly.You'll hear how real-time exposure to the M.A.W.L. model (Model, Assist, Watch, Launch) turns passive learners into multiplying leaders. If you're stuck in theory and craving transformation, this immersive story will jolt you forward.Covo Multipliers:Join the Signal Group: To connect with others living the co-vocational lifestyle, share wins/challenges, and get early access to event updates: https://forms.gle/TWB6kGRQWdpgbvFu8Participate in the June 28, 2025 Bible Study: Zoom deep dive into the model of Priscilla and Aquila, facilitated by Dave. Get biblical clarity and shared DNA for multiplying gospel-centered communities. Join Signal Group for access.Prepare for an October Immersion Experience: Mark your calendar—details to come. Live shoulder-to-shoulder with others in a practical environment to accelerate reproducibility.
I have chickens. They are not my chickens. They belong to the neighbor. He already had chickens in a chicken coop. Now he has ten more chickens. They are not in the chicken coop. They are in my yard. My flowers. Digging holes in the yard and around the foundation of the house. Pooping on the porch. Hanging out. I tried playing red-tail hawk sounds really loud. I tried taking watermelon rinds and veggie scraps over to their property, but they still lurk in the shady spots and follow me around every time I go outside to work. They just stick around. It took me a whole day to lay chicken wire under the flower bed mulch to keep them from destroying my carefully designed and freshly-planted flower beds. We let the neighbor know, but so far, we still have sticken' chickens. I even told them the story of when Billie Idol went missing, but while they enjoyed story time, they don't connect Billie's demise to their current situation. Chickens are like that. When I was four years old, my first pet was a chicken named Slicker. Grandma's cat Fuchsia ate it. I didn't connect a cat to Slicker's current situation. I was telling a good friend about our sticken' chickens yesterday, and we were chatting about the danger of Moses' forty days of absence on the mountain. The Israelites and mixed multitude pretty much gave up on his return. In spite of every miracle they'd seen, they couldn't wait forty full days for the next one. Not only that, they started breaking the Big Ten. An idol. Sexual immorality. You know the story. They'd been delivered from slavery in Egypt; they'd been immersed as a congregation in the Reed Sea; they'd witnessed the glory of Adonai and agreed to His covenant at the mountain…and yet, they had sticken' chickens from Egypt. They went right back to feeding slavery to sin. “For I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea; and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea...” (1 Co 10:1-2) The tunnel of the Reed Sea was like a birth canal. Immersion has always been a symbol of a resurrection that is more than symbolic. On the Third Day of Creation was a birth of life from the water to fruit trees. On the dawn of the Seventh Day of Passover, the Israelites completed a supernaturally fast, effortless journey through the Reed Sea. Likewise, immersion (mikveh) is undertaken as a rebirth. The pattern is this: • Water represents spirit (as does fire) • The earth is the substance of mankind, adam • When YHVH turns the sea into dry land as a way of escape, that which was spirit became substance/flesh in order to provide a new beginning for Israel/mankind, a resurrection from the sin decay of mere earth to earthly life with the spirit, a promise of wholeness and perfections completed from above • New life follows a mikveh in Messiah, the Great Hand of YHVH. This is the mystical picture of the Reed Sea. When YHVH turned the sea into dry land, he figuratively resurrected the Israelites. When the natural body dies, it returns to the earth. In Messiah Yeshua, the bared arm of YHVH, mankind is resurrected from earth through water. “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase? May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it? Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with,
Does the mode of Baptism really matter? Pastor Shirk takes a look at the biblical reasons for baptism by immersion and the important picture that is changed by other modes of baptism.
Si Tokyo est un eldorado pour les férus de technologies grâce à ses magasins d'électronique et ses salles d'arcade futuristes, pour les gourmets, elle qui abrite le plus grand nombre de restaurants étoilés au monde, la capitale nipponne est aussi un paradis pour les passionnés de style. Berceau de la créativité et de la mode, le quartier d'Harajuku, voit depuis des décennies, défiler les looks les plus excentriques. Ceux des lolitas qui s'habillent comme des poupées, des gyaru, en mode bling bling, ou encore des Sukeban, ces gangs de filles des années 1970. Au détour des rues, les tenues changent. Tokyo est la ville où l'on passe facilement de la standardisation des uniformes scolaires et des costumes-cravate des quartiers d'affaires, à des looks plus affirmés et personnels. Comment décrypter la mode japonaise ? Que révèlent les choix vestimentaires des Tokyoïtes de leur personnalité ? Avec : • Vanessa Montalbano, journaliste, expatriée au Japon depuis 2017 et autrice de Vu à Harajuku (Komon – Les arènes, 2025) et de Tokyo Crush (Komon-Les arènes) • June Fujiwara, née à Tokyo, expatriée en France à Paris, depuis une vingtaine d'années. Ella a passé 17 ans à la Direction de la Communication de la Maison Louis Vuitton. Elle est l'autrice de La parfaite Tokyoïte (Komon - Les arènes, 2023), Les Secrets du savoir-vivre nippon (2021, Éditions de l'Opportun) et de Mes rituels japonais (2023, Éditions Leduc) • Kadiata Diallo, styliste mauritano-sénégalaise, créatrice de la marque de mode Niuku basée Dakar. Programmation musicale : ► Right/Wrong - VivaOla ► Waya Yawa - Ajaté.
Si Tokyo est un eldorado pour les férus de technologies grâce à ses magasins d'électronique et ses salles d'arcade futuristes, pour les gourmets, elle qui abrite le plus grand nombre de restaurants étoilés au monde, la capitale nipponne est aussi un paradis pour les passionnés de style. Berceau de la créativité et de la mode, le quartier d'Harajuku, voit depuis des décennies, défiler les looks les plus excentriques. Ceux des lolitas qui s'habillent comme des poupées, des gyaru, en mode bling bling, ou encore des Sukeban, ces gangs de filles des années 1970. Au détour des rues, les tenues changent. Tokyo est la ville où l'on passe facilement de la standardisation des uniformes scolaires et des costumes-cravate des quartiers d'affaires, à des looks plus affirmés et personnels. Comment décrypter la mode japonaise ? Que révèlent les choix vestimentaires des Tokyoïtes de leur personnalité ? Avec : • Vanessa Montalbano, journaliste, expatriée au Japon depuis 2017 et autrice de Vu à Harajuku (Komon – Les arènes, 2025) et de Tokyo Crush (Komon-Les arènes) • June Fujiwara, née à Tokyo, expatriée en France à Paris, depuis une vingtaine d'années. Ella a passé 17 ans à la Direction de la Communication de la Maison Louis Vuitton. Elle est l'autrice de La parfaite Tokyoïte (Komon - Les arènes, 2023), Les Secrets du savoir-vivre nippon (2021, Éditions de l'Opportun) et de Mes rituels japonais (2023, Éditions Leduc) • Kadiata Diallo, styliste mauritano-sénégalaise, créatrice de la marque de mode Niuku basée Dakar. Programmation musicale : ► Right/Wrong - VivaOla ► Waya Yawa - Ajaté.
In this episode, we dive into the critical elements of water rescue—from essential PPE to best practices for swiftwater operations. Whether you're a first responder, a SAR team member, or just passionate about water safety, this discussion covers the gear that keeps rescuers protected, the latest advancements in immersion technology, and the real-world applications that make all the difference when seconds count.Learn more about cutting-edge water rescue gear at Immersion Research: https://immersionresearch.comContact their SAR team directly at prosales@immersionresearch.com or call 814-395-9191.
Coaching U Podcast with Coach Brendan Suhr presented by Hudl & Hudl Assist
In this conversation, Coach Brendan Suhr is joined by Chris Oliver who discusses the innovative 'games approach' to coaching basketball, emphasizing the importance of decision-making and player development. He reflects on his journey in coaching, the evolution of coaching mindsets, and the necessity of creating practice environments that mirror real-game situations. This conversation highlights the shift from traditional drill-based practices to more dynamic, decision-focused training methods that enhance players' basketball IQ and overall performance. They also discuss the shift from traditional drill-based training to game-based learning, highlighting the significance of decision-making and environmental factors in player development. All that and more on episode 298 of the Coaching U Podcast presented by Noah Basketball!Noah Basketball is trusted by 28 NBA teams, over 200 NCAA programs, and more than 1,000 high school teams to deliver instant shooting feedback and in-depth analytics to help players reach their full potential.Learn more: noahbasketball.comSpecial Offers!
If you are experiencing a massive change or big endings in your life - this episode is for you. We have been fed so many fear-based messages around relationships and endings, and divorce, which leaves people staying way past the expiry date, and things get messy. The end doesn't have to be miserable or torturous or dramatic. There is a whole new way to complete a cycle with someone you love (or once loved). Listen to this episode for a breakdown of how to navigate big changes in your life, with love, with grace and with ease. It doesn't mean it won't come without grief, but there's a new way to navigate that too. Expanded Love Masterclass June 16-20, 2025 https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/masterclassThe Immersion - April 25- May 2, 2026 https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/the-immersionTo book a Free Call to explore working with Kate - click the link below: https://calendly.com/expanded-love/exploration-call-cloneAbout the Host:Kate Harlow is the founder of The Unscriptd Woman, the creator of The Expanded Love Coaching Method, and host of The New Truth podcast - ranked in the top 1.5% globally. With over 15 years of experience teaching, coaching and facilitating transformational retreats worldwide, Kate has helped hundreds of thousands of women break free from outdated relational patterns, old patriarchal ways of thinking and unspoken rules to live by. Her infallible methods guide women to release the deeply ingrained scripts that keep them stuck- empowering women to step into their highest, most magnetic, and fully expressed selves. Through her coaching, retreats, podcast and upcoming book The Unscriptd Woman, Kate is redefining what it means to be an empowered woman in today's world, showing women how to stop waiting for permission and start creating a life and love that aligns with their deepest truth. Known for her rare ability to see exactly where women are out of alignment with themselves, Kate offers a path back to unwavering self- trust, meaningful joy and true fulfillment. Her work is a revolution - one that liberates women from societal expectations and invites them into a life of radical authenticity, thriving relationships and unshakable self-worth. Website: https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/The Immersion in Corfu, Greece April 26- May 3, 2025 https://www.theunscriptdwoman.com/the-immersionThanks for listening!It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation with us, head on over to our Facebook group, the New Truth Movement at https://www.facebook.com/groups/209821843509179/ With this podcast, we are building an international community of The New Truth Movement.If you know someone who would benefit from this message or could be an awesome addition to our community, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note in the comment section below! Follow the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can follow the podcast app on your mobile device. Leave us a reviewWe...
Alors que le secrétaire général de l'Otan appelle à augmenter les capacités de défense de l'alliance pour faire face à la menace russe, dans les usines d'armement on cherche à augmenter la cadence de production. À Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, la société Dicomatic qui travaille pour des grandes entreprises de l'armement dont Rafale et le missilier MBDA, voit ses carnets de commande exploser. La société fabrique des fixations de sécurité de haute précision. Reportage signé Nicolas Burnens.Distribué par Audiomeans. Visitez audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.