Podcasts about interestingly

When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. Mark 6:34What is compassion? It’s an attribute by which someone sees the suffering of another and experiences true empathy for them. This empathy, in turn, leads the person to reach out and share in the person’s suffering, helping them to endure whatever they are going through. This is what Jesus experienced within His own Sacred Heart as He looked out upon this vast crowd.The Scripture above introduces the familiar miracle of the feeding of the five thousand with only five loaves of bread and two fish. And though the miracle itself offers much to ponder, this introductory line also gives us much to ponder regarding our Lord’s motivation for performing this miracle.When Jesus looked out at the large crowd, He saw a group of people who seemed lost, were searching and were spiritually hungry. They desired some direction in their lives, and, for that reason, they were coming to Jesus. But what’s very helpful to reflect upon is Jesus’ Heart. He was not annoyed by their insistence, He was not burdened by them; rather He was deeply moved by their spiritual poverty and hunger. This moved His Heart to “pity,” which is a form of sincere compassion. For that reason, He taught them “many things.”Interestingly, the miracle was simply an extra blessing but was not the primary action Jesus took on account of His compassionate Heart. First and foremost, His compassion led Him to teach them.Jesus looks at each one of us with the same compassion. Whenever you find yourself confused, lacking direction in life and spiritually hungry, Jesus gazes at you with the same gaze He offered this vast crowd. And His remedy for your needs is to teach you, also. He wants you to learn from Him by studying the Scripture, by daily prayer and meditation, by reading the lives of the saints and learning the many glorious teachings of our Church. This is the food that every wandering heart needs for spiritual satisfaction.Reflect, today, upon the most compassionate Heart of our Divine Lord. Allow yourself to see Him gazing at you with the utmost love. Know that His gaze is one that drives Him to speak to you, to teach you and to lead you to Himself. Trust this most compassionate Heart of our Lord and allow Him to reach out to you in love.Lord, help me to see You as You gaze at me with the most heartfelt love and compassion. I know You know my every struggle and my every need. Help me to open myself up to You and Your mercy so that You become my true Shepherd. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2020 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS fee

Protecting equipment from unexpected changes in power is key to a safe and reliable system. One of the best ways to ensure a system is properly designed and will manage faults in the most efficient way is to have a short circuit study completed. Kareem Josephs unpacks why short circuit studies are important in this idea episode. He shares how to start the process of obtaining a short circuit study, how often a study should be considered and what you should expect. Who should be leading the charge of facilitating these studies? Interestingly enough Kareen suggests there are those outside of the electrical world that he's experienced ensuring these studies get accomplished. He speaks to how more industrial facilities are having studies completed by efforts of safety departments and how that can benefit so many areas for a more reliable system moving forward. Most importantly he shows how to make use of the data to address areas of concern in a system to appropriately remediate issues. For those new to short circuit studies we hope this connects the dots on what they are and WHY they are important for all industrial facilities in the future. Guest: Kareem Josephs, Lead Power Systems EngineerHost: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam SheetsResources: EECO Inspire Blog: Short Circuit StudyEECO Inspire Blog: What Testing is Important for Electrical Distribution Systems?

This Week we discuss the beginnings of Joseph Smith’s History as he recorded in the year 1838 after years of relentless persecution, attacks on his character, and repeated attempts to prove him a false or fallen prophet. We discuss the background of the Smith’s moving to Palmyra and the “Great Awakening” that was in full swing. Remember that America was founded as a free land, and that included religious liberty. Joseph, as a young boy, took heavy interest in his salvation but was unable to make a decision as to which religious sect to join. He made the point that preachers of all faiths could interpret the same pasages of scripture so differently that it was almost impossible to come to a certain conclusion of who was right. He made the decision to pray to God vocally. As a result, he had a miraculous vision, “The First Vision” as we have come to know it. Interestingly enough, we discuss why it’s called the first vision and how in reality, it really isn’t the first vision, but probably the greatest vision to ever take place. And we know that it is the First Vision of the Restoration. Finally, where is your “Sacred Grove”? The place where Joseph had his miraculous vision is called the sacred grove. We can all have a sacred grove. How does it become sacred? It depends on how we treat that place, how we reverence that place, and do we invite Deity?You may have felt like Joseph Smith as well at times, not knowing who was telling the truth or what even was truth. You can know for yourself, just as Joseph did, what God wants you to know. Our very own Kenny, shares his experience of how he went through a “searching” period in his life. Listen to his experience and be inspired.

The Context of White Supremacy hosts The Context of White Supremacy hosts the weekly Compensatory Call-In. We encourage non-white listeners to dial in with their codified concepts, new terms, observations, research findings, workplace problems or triumphs, and/or suggestions on how best to Replace White Supremacy With Justice ASAP. We’ll use these sessions to hone our use of words as tools to reveal truth, neutralize White people. We’ll examine news reports from the past seven days and – hopefully – promote a constructive dialog. #ANTIBLACKNESS The terrorist suspect in the December 25th Nashville, Tennessee bombing was identified. Anthony Quinn Warner, a 63-year-old White man, is presumed to have died in the early morning explosion. Interestingly, Warner's girlfriend apparently alerted authorities to his terrorist activities a year in advance. Nashville's finest apparently left him to his own devices. In Ohio, protests call for charges to be filed against a White officer, Adam Coy, who killed Andre Hill. In the same Buckeye state, a sword-wielding White man with no badge is accused of assaulting Dennis Brown, 55, an unarmed black male. 2021 commenced, but thus far, it's about the same as 2020. #Rona #BlackMisandry INVEST in The COWS – http://paypal.me/TheCOWS Cash App: https://cash.app/$TheCOWS CALL IN NUMBER: 720.716.7300 CODE: 564943#

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, "Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage."   Matthew 2:1–2The Magi were most likely from Persia, modern-day Iran. They were men who regularly engaged in a study of the stars. They were not Jewish but were most likely aware of the popular belief of the Jewish people that a king would be born who would save them.These Magi were called by God to encounter the Savior of the World. Interestingly, God used something very familiar to them as an instrument of their calling: the stars. It was among their belief that when someone of great importance was born, this birth was accompanied by a new star. So when they saw this new, bright and brilliant star, they were filled with curiosity and hope. One of the most significant aspects of this story is that they responded. God called them through the use of a star, and they chose to follow this sign, embarking on a long and arduous journey.God often uses those things most familiar to us that are part of our daily life to send forth His calling. Recall, for example, that many of the Apostles were fishermen, and Jesus used their occupation to call them, making them “fishers of men.” He especially used the miraculous catch of fish to clearly indicate to them that they had a new calling.In our own lives, God is constantly calling us to seek Him out and worship Him. He will often use some of the most ordinary parts of our lives to send forth that calling. How is He calling you? In what way is He sending you a star to follow? Many times when God speaks, we ignore His voice. We must learn from these Magi and diligently respond when He calls. We must not hesitate and must seek to daily be attentive to the ways that God invites us to deeper trust, surrender and worship.Reflect, today, upon God’s call in your life. Are you listening? Are you responding? Are you ready and willing to abandon all else in life so as to serve His holy will? Seek Him, wait on Him and respond. Doing so will be the best decision you ever make.Lord, I love You and pray that I will be open to Your guiding hand in my life. May I always be attentive to the countless ways that You call to me each and every day. And may I always respond to You with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2020 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Today's Bible Translation Steve Webb Bible translation used in today's episode: Ch. 19 NASB, Ch. 20 NLV Support Please remember that this is a listener supported show. Your support of any amount is needed and very much appreciated. Find out how by clicking here. Thoughts Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector, and the Jews hated tax collectors in general, so as a chief tax collector he probably was especially disdained by them. Tax collectors often got rich by extracting extra taxes from people, over and above what was required by the Roman government. Zacchaeus appears to be one who took full advantage of his position. Interestingly, the name "Zacchaeus" means "pure one", which of course, he was anything but pure. He had evidently heard about Jesus and the miracles he had done, and probably had heard reports of His teachings and the way he dealt with people. So Zacchaeus wanted to meet him, so much so that he ran ahead along the route that Jesus was taking and climbed up a sycamore tree because he was a short man and could not see over the heads of the crowd. Let's consider the inclusion of Zacchaeus' short stature for a moment. While not always true, it is sometimes true that short men develop a personality trait called a Napoleon complex, or short man syndrome. They sometimes have a chip on their shoulder, often as a result of being bullied when they were young. And this might be why Zacchaeus became a tax collector, as a way of getting back at those who bullied him. He may have become driven to achieve financial success, no matter what it took. And this driven personality trait made him a man not to let anything get in his way, so on this day, in order to see Jesus, he set aside personal pride and climbed a tree as a child would do, so that he could achieve the goal of seeing this Jesus that everyone was talking about. I like what the commentator Alexander Maclaren said: "I wish there were more of us who did not mind being laughed at if only what we did helped us to see Jesus." So Jesus did walk past the tree where Zacchaeus had perched himself, and He looked up and called Zacchaeus by name! He called him by name. I believe that Jesus had a divine appointment with Zacchaeus that day. This was no chance meeting. Jesus knew that Zacchaeus was waiting to see Him, and that Zacchaeus' heart was prepared for something special, even if Zacchaeus himself didn't know it. "Hurry down from there, Zacchaeus, because I'm coming to your house today!" Jesus said. Can you imagine Zacchaeus' excitement at those words? The crowd around Jesus is so numerous that he had to climb a tree to even see him, and Jesus singles him out by name and says, "I want to spend some time with you." Jesus didn't just want to talk to him, He wanted to have a relationship with him. In John 10:3 Jesus said, "The one who watches the door opens it for him. The sheep listen to the voice of the shepherd. He calls his own sheep by name and he leads them out." Jesus knew Zacchaeus' name, and He knows your name, beloved. Isn't that marvelous? Of the billions of people who have ever lived, He knows your name. But of course He does, because He formed you in your mother's womb. Psalm 139:13 says, "You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb." I find this to be both humbling and reassuring, don't you? So after Jesus called to him in the tree, what did Zacchaeus do? He did what Jesus asked him to do, he hurried down from the tree. And our verse says he "received Him gladly." Zacchaeus could have stayed in the tree. He could have come down but rejected Jesus inviting Himself into Zacchaeus' home. But Zacchaeus received Him gladly. The great preacher, Charles Spurgeon, said, “Christ will not force himself into any man’s house, and sit there against the man’s will. That would not be the action of a guest, but of an unwelcome intruder.” Zacchaeus received Jesus before he knew what Jesus ...

And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.  Luke 2:19 Today, January 1, we complete our octave celebration of Christmas Day. It’s an often overlooked liturgical fact that we celebrate Christmas Day for eight straight days. We do this also with Easter Day, which concludes with the great celebration of Divine Mercy Sunday.On this, the eighth day of the Octave of Christmas, we turn our focus to the unique and beautiful fact that God chose to enter our world through a human mother. Mary is called the “Mother of God” for the simple fact that her Son is God. She was not the mother of her Son’s flesh alone, nor the mother only of His human nature. This is because the Person of Jesus, the Son of God, is one Person. And that one Person took on flesh within the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary.Though becoming the Mother of God was a pure gift from Heaven and not something that Mother Mary merited on her own, there was one particular quality that she had that made her uniquely qualified to fulfill this role. That quality was her immaculate nature.First, Mother Mary was preserved from all sin when she was conceived within the womb of her mother, Saint Anne. This special grace was a grace that was imparted to her from the future life, death and resurrection of her Son. It was the grace of salvation, but God chose to take that gift of grace and transcend time to impart it to her at the moment of her conception, thus making her the perfect and pure instrument necessary to bring forth God into the world.Second, Mother Mary remained faithful to this gift of grace throughout her life, never choosing to sin, never wavering, never turning from God. She remained immaculate throughout her life. Interestingly, it is this choice of hers, to forever remain obedient to the will of God in every way, that makes her more fully the Mother of God than the simple act of bearing Him within her womb. Her act of perfect unity with the will of God throughout her life makes her, also, the perfect mother of divine grace and mercy and perpetually the spiritual Mother of God, continually and perfectly bringing Him into our world.Reflect, today, upon these most solemn mysteries of our faith. This eighth day of the Octave of Christmas is a solemn celebration, a celebration worthy of our pondering. The Scripture above reveals not only how our blessed Mother approached this mystery but also how we are to approach it. She “kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.” Ponder these mysteries, also, in your own heart and allow the grace of this holy celebration to fill you with joy and gratitude.Dearest Mother Mary, you were graced with a grace beyond any other. You were preserved from all sin and remained perfectly obedient to the will of God throughout your life. As a result, you became the perfect instrument of the Savior of the World by becoming His mother, the Mother of God. Pray for me that I may ponder this great mystery of our faith this day and ever more deeply rejoice in the incomprehensible beauty of your motherly soul. Mother Mary, the Mother of God, pray for us.  Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2020 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

This is one of only 5 stories to show up in all 4 Editions. The author is John Henry Fitzhugh Mayo, known to his contemporaries as “Fitz” M. Unlike some of the previous Personal Stories, quite a lot is known about Fitz and his contribution to early AA and the Big Book. Fitz got sober in October 1935, after a visit from Bill W. in Townes Hospital in New York City, and is reputedly the third person whom Bill helped to get sober after he returned to New York from Akron. He was among the earliest AA members who helped Bill make the transition from the Oxford Group to the 12 steps of AA in the late 1930s and was heavily involved in the formative years of the Program. Interestingly, Fitz originally submitted a much shorter version of this story which he titled “Me and John”, as in John Barleycorn, in 1938. Bill asked him to expand the story. After being renamed, the story, more than twice the length of the original, was published in the First Edition of the Big Book as one of the longest stories in that 1939 Edition. Its most famous passage is Fitz’s revelatory thought “Who are you to say there is no God?” and the falling to his knees to experience hope and a great sense of peace. Just why the First Edition story was pared down for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th editions is a mystery, but its enduring message still rings true today. Howard L, sober since January 1, 1988, presents this inspired reading of the Big Book and encourages listeners to revisit earlier podcast episodes that feature the main chapters and stories in the First and Second Editions of the Big Book. Enjoy listening on our website, BigBookPodcast.com, or download and subscribe to the podcast for free at Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. If you have a minute, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Also join our facebook group, Big Book Podcast Listeners, where you can share your thoughts and experiences with fellow listeners. Check out Howard L.'s newest podcast, "AA Recovery Interviews".

When a person receives an Aliya to the Torah, the reader should show him the place where the Aliya will begin. He then kisses that spot in the Torah and recites the Beracha. It occasionally happens that the reader makes a mistake and shows the wrong place to the one receiving the Aliya. This is especially prone to happen when the Aliya begins with a common verse – such as "Va’yedaber Hashem El Moshe Lemor" – and the reader can thus easily become confused. The Shulhan Aruch (140:3) cites two views as to whether the one who receives the Aliya must repeat the Beracha if he had recited the Beracha after looking at the wrong place. The first opinion – which the Shulhan Aruch cites with the words "Yesh Omrim" ("There are those who say") – maintains that the one receiving the Aliya does not have to repeat the Beracha in this case. The reason for this ruling is that the Beracha does not relate to any particular spot in the Torah, but rather to the Torah generally. The second opinion, however, which is also introduced with the term "Yesh Omrim," maintains that the person must, in fact, repeat the Beracha.There is a general rule that when the Shulhan Aruch cites two views in this format – "Yesh Omim… Ve’yesh Omrim" – he sides with the second view. Accordingly, his position is that the one receiving the Aliya must repeat the Beracha if he had recited it after looking at the wrong place. Interestingly, the Taz (Rav David Ha’levi Segal, 1586-1667), cited by the Mishna Berura, writes that this ruling applies only if the person receiving the Aliya looked at text on a different page in the Torah scroll. According to the Taz, if the one receiving the Aliya looked at the wrong place but it was on the right page, then all agree that the Beracha is not repeated. Others maintain that as long as the place the person looked at was within that day’s Torah reading, even if it was not where his Aliya was beginning, he does not have to repeat the Beracha. The Kaf Ha’haim (Rav Yaakob Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Israel, 1867-1939), however, writes that this discussion is of no practical relevance, because of the famous rule of "Safek Berachot Le’hakel" – we do not recite a Beracha when there is some uncertainty as to whether it is required. Even when the Shulhan Aruch requires reciting a Beracha, the Beracha should not be recited if other authorities disagree and maintain that it is not required. Hence, in this case, since some authorities maintain that the Beracha should not be repeated, the person receiving the Aliya does not repeat the Beracha if he had recited it over the wrong place. This is especially so in light of the position of the Rambam (Rav Moshe Maimonides, Spain-Egypt, 1135-1204) that one can recite a Beracha when reading from an invalid Sefer Torah. Clearly, in his view, the Beracha relates to the reading in general, and not to any particular spot in the Torah scroll, and thus it would not have to be repeated if one recited it after being shown the wrong place. This is the conclusion of Hacham David Yosef, in his Halacha Berura.All the people standing at the Teba during the Torah reading – the reader, the Somech, and the one receiving the Aliya – must stand. This Halacha is established by the Talmud Yerushalmi, which explains that standing is required either out of respect for the Sefer Torah, or out of respect for the congregation.It is forbidden to lean on the Teba when the Torah is being read, unless one is elderly or otherwise frail, in which case he may lean on the Teba for support. Even in such a case, however, it is forbidden to lean all of one’s weight on the Teba such that he would fall if the Teba would be removed from underneath him. He may lean for extra support, but may not lean all his weight on the Teba. Furthermore, if the Torah sits on a cloth on the Teba, it would be forbidden to lean on the cloth, and the person would have to lift the cloth and lean directly on the surface of the Teba. If one leaned on the Teba while reading the Torah, the reading does not have to be repeated. Nevertheless, if this occurred on Shabbat, when extra Aliyot may be added, it is preferable to add an extra Aliya.The Shulhan Aruch writes that the one receiving the Aliya must read the text along with the reader. This is mentioned also by the Zohar, which writes that the one receiving the Aliya should read in a low voice, which is inaudible even to himself, the way one recites the Amida. The Shulhan Aruch goes so far as to say that if the one receiving the Aliya does not read the text along with the reader, his Beracha might constitute a Beracha Le’batala (Beracha recited in vain). We do not apply the famous rule of "Shome’a Ke’oneh" – that listening to a recitation is equivalent to personally reciting the text – because the reader does not actually bear an obligation to read. The obligation of Torah reading is borne by the congregation as a whole, and not by the reader personally. The mechanism of "Shome’a Ke’oneh" can be used only when one who bears the obligation recites the required recitation and the others fulfill their obligation by listening. It cannot be used in this case, when the reader does not bear a personal obligation.Therefore, according to the Shulhan Aruch, somebody who cannot read along the reader, either because of a visual impairment or because he is ignorant, may not be given an Aliya to the Torah. Other Halachic authorities (including the Aruch Ha’shulhan) disagree, and maintain that we may rely on the concept of "Shome’a Ke’oneh" even for the Torah reading. However, in light of the Shulhan Aruch’s ruling, the question arises as to why many congregations call for Aliyot even those who are clearly incapable of reading along with the Hazan, and just stand there silently. This topic requires further analysis, but clearly, one who receives an Aliya and is capable of reading along with the reader must do so. As mentioned, this should be done in a very low voice, as the Zohar requires, and so as not to confuse the reader.Summary: When one receives an Aliya, he should be first shown the place where the Aliya will be starting, and only then recite the Beracha. If he is shown the wrong place and then recites the Beracha, he does not have to repeat the Beracha. One may not lean on the Teba during the reading, unless he is ill or frail, in which case he may lean slightly, without resting all his weight on the Teba. During the reading, the one who receives the Aliya must quietly read the text along with the reader.

Prologue This week, on the last episode of 2020, Michael Coates joins Rafal to talk about wire-speed-data-protection. Sort of like CASB but more universal. Interestingly, Rafal and Michael talk through how DLP has evolved and into what, and some interesting developments along the way - then the promise of something better. Guest Michael Coates LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcoates/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/_mwc

Recently, a group of girls wanted to form a study group, and they requested that they be taught Mishnayot, giving rise to the question regarding the permissibility of teaching Mishna to girls. The Rambam, in Hilchot Talmud Torah (1:13), sets certain restrictions on what areas of Torah may be taught to girls and women, and Rav Moshe Feinstein (Russia-New York, 1895-1986), in his Iggerot Moshe (Y.DA. 3:87), maintains that Mishna is included in the category of restricted material. Rav Moshe permitted Bet Yaakov school systems to teach their students the Mishnayot of Pirkeh Abot, which deal with broader religious values and proper behavior, but not other Mishnayot.Interestingly enough, the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909), in his work Od Yosef Hai (Parashat Vayishlah), relates that while his father recited Tikkun Hasot at night, his mother would learn eighteen chapters of Mishna. It is hard to imagine that the Ben Ish Hai’s father – who was a towering Torah scholar and Sadik – would have allowed his wife to study Mishna if he thought this was forbidden. It seems likely that the Ben Ish Hai’s mother simply read the Mishnayot, without studying them in depth, and thus this account can easily be reconciled with Rav Moshe Feinstein’s ruling. Accordingly, Rabbi Shayo, in his Mehkereh Eretz (4:22), rules that girls and women may superficially read Mishna, but should not engage in the in-depth study of Mishna.Summary: Girls and women may superficially read Mishna, but should not study it in depth.

A Band Of Brothers And Sisters Reader: Jon Watson Date: 28th December 2020 Time: ------------------- One of the great things about Christianity is that it 'fits into' every country and people group where the Gospel is preached and believed. For people at every stage of development, whatever language they speak, whatever age they may be, the Gospel message — God's Good News — speaks to them. That is something we rejoice in and give thanks for. And that means wherever a Christian comes from, he or she is our brother or sister in Christ and we must welcome them into our fellowship and congregation, just as Christ received and welcomed us. The congregation where we worship always has visitors and at this time of year when families like to come together there are perhaps more visitors than normal. It is our privilege to welcome them in the name of Jesus. It is also an immense privilege to belong to such a world-wide family. That means we must rejoice when God's blessing, maybe in revival, is being experienced in different parts of the world, or in different churches from ours — they are family. It means too that we must weep with those Christians who are suffering because they are Christians, and we must help them. Interestingly enough the word the Bible uses for 'welcome' was used when soldiers were enrolled in the Roman army and 'welcomed' to a new regiment! We Christians are all enrolled in Christ's army to lead disciplined, active lives resisting evil and injustice in the world. ## Prayer Help me, dear Lord, to welcome all who join us in worship. Amen

Mindfullness and mixing. I have been undertaking a mindfulness practice for the last year or so - following Sam Harris, listening to his many talks and using the app for a 10 minute session each morning. This isn't the first time I have had a 'meditation' practice. As a young man, I trained in Yang Tsin Su and Tai Chi fairly intensively for a few years. By intensively, I mean I was up at 4:30 to head into town for an hour of training, then an hour of meditation. After work, there was an hour odd at the gym. Most days, except Sunday. Interestingly, at this time, I was also eating as a Vegan. This, as my memory serves was a time of extreme mental clarity, if not constant physical tiredness and I still remember being able to 'observe' my mind literally slowing down in front of me as I headed away from the practice. During that time, I experienced a few things that I would still struggle to explain logically, potentially resulting from a mind and body and intent all perfectly in line with each other. Mixing, specifically beatmatching, now that I am getting back into it, has reminded me of what a mindful practice it can be. The act requires you to follow two separate beats and actively keep them in line with each other. This is a practice that requires constant attention and attentiveness. It requires you to certainly, be, here, now. Like life, you occasionally falter - and interestingly, it's often when you doubt yourself that the mix goes out - was that track getting ahead or behind? That self-questioning leads to nudging or pulling the wrong way, overcorrection and eventually settling back into the groove. However, that's not to say the mind can't actually wander a bit. Once things are locked in, or maybe because it does, I occasionally find myself dropping into a space between those tracks, in the mix - and there is actually a bit of room to wander around in there. Interestingly now, coming back to mixing, I do seem to be a little less self-critical of those moments slipping out of the mix - I understand them, I enjoy them, I find myself listening back and cheering myself on during the little bumps. Something I hope I also get better at doing in my real life. Christmas Day 2020. My little girls are off with their mother now for a couple of days, and I do find myself already missing them. I also found that the mother of some old friends passed away yesterday. So much like the rest of the year, things are moving on with a bit of a strange undertone to them.

In this episode Dr. Matthew Bortolussi joins Dr. Don to discuss the evolution of his career, including how and why he joined The Vitality Shift. Dr. Bortolussi graduated from the New York Chiropractic College in 2004 and now practices in Vaughn, Ontario. Interestingly enough, Dr. Bortolussi had never himself experienced chiropractic care before pursuing it as a career. Now, he runs his own practice. He is sharing why he chose to become a chiropractor, how his practice has evolved and changed, and everything he’s learned along the way. Key Takeaways: Why Dr. Bortolussi decided to become chiropractor. [2:10] His experience with chiropractic care before it became his career. [5:10] Why he decided on New York Chiropractic College. [6:16] The amount of vitalism Dr. Bortolussi was exposed to during college. [10:57] How he prepared himself to start his own practice during school. [12:45] The evolution of Dr. Bortolussi’s career, and how this related to the changes in his marriage. [15:29] How his practice has changed in its new iteration. [22:18] Creating his own definition of chiropractic care. [23:35] When Dr. Bortolussi joined The Vitality Shift, and how he found out about it. [26:53] Tips for increasing an online presence, which is especially important during lockdown. [31:50] The importance of experience, authority, and trust on your webpage. [43:31] Integrating your site with online booking platforms, and discovering the new tools available. [49:10] How Dr. Bortolussi encourages customer reviews for his business. [50:10] Words of wisdom from Dr. Bortolussi for the listeners. [53:50]   Find out more about The Vitality Shift: www.thevitalityshift.com

Slovenia has been producing wines since Roman times, and it is home to some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Vineyards are limited to the two extremities of the country where milder temperatures allow for successful vine growing.I have caught up with Robert Gorjak, author of 'Slovenia a winemaking country', to discuss and discover more about the local wines and what is happening in recent years. We talked about Slovenia's climate and what grapes are popular in the country, Interestingly international varieties have been planted for over 200 years and have adapted well to the local environment.Slovenia has many natives grapes making it very interesting to consumers and to those who are learning about it.In the Episode we have discussed the three main regions Podravska Wine RegionBordering Croatia and Hungary in the east, Podravje is Slovenia's largest wine region famous for its sparking wines and world class dessert wines. The wines from this region are amongst Slovenia's most prestigious - Almost 97% of wine produced here is white wine. Officially two major areas, these are broken down into 7 smaller districts.Posavska Wine RegionThis is the smallest of the wine producing regions in Slovenia. The Dolenjska area being home to Cviček; the fresh, light and slighly sour red wine. Cviček has a rich history of more than 200 years and is the wine of choice for most households in the Dolenjska area.Primorska Wine RegionSlightly smaller but producing up to 30% more wine than the Podravje region, Primorje is the most developed of the three Slovenian wine regions with an annual output of over 25million litres. There is a very stong Italian influence in this area; in language, food, culture, architecture and viticulture. Although its long producing history, Slovenian's wines have struggled to establish their presence in the international markets compared to their neighbouring regions. Slovenia also has a long tradition for sweet wines, with regulations resembling those of Germany and Austria and in the western part of the country, there is a growing trend for orange and natural wines.If you are interest in learning more about Slovenian Wines, I wuold look at getting a kindle version of Robert Book's 'Slovenia a Winemaking Country' Also check those website out - https://www.slovenia.info/en/things-to-do/food-and-wine/wines-of-slovenia https://www.followingtherivera.com/2019/12/20/wine-from-slovenia/https://www.wine-searcher.com/regions-slovenia

Making diamonds from mum’s cake, recycling precious metal to forge new memories and turning discarded abattoir waste into something beautiful useful. Meet three contemporary designers who are exploring the concept of value by repurposing meaning. What object do you value most? Is it something that evokes a deep-rooted joyful memory? Is it some we decide for ourselves, or are we led by narratives developed to sell a certain vision of luxury encapsulated? What if you could form a diamond from anything and create a truly meaningful gift? What if you could find ‘Hidden Beauty’ in discarded waste and lessen environmental impact at the same time, why wouldn’t you sit on a chair made from blood? These are the questions and more we discuss as we explore our relationship with value and meaning together with Aniela Fidler, Ariana Chede and Clemence Grouin-Rigaux. About our guests ANIELA FIDLER Aniela Fidler is a London College of Fashion, MA Fashion Futures Graduate who was one of the four graduates who took part in the Radical Sustainabilities event as part of the Class of 2020 Graduate Showcase. Aniela’s work is concerned with fashion as an expression of emotion. Aniela researches what humans wear to express collective and individual identities, as well as communicate and relate to each other. This is to better understand and map possibilities for more satisfactory futures. She investigates how environments, people, feelings, materials and products come together through storytelling by developing ideas gathered from multiple voices and uniting narratives. By employing an art and design aesthetic Aniela encourages us to reduce the fear of complexity and embrace its beauty. Through her project Diamond Makers Aniela explores radical new future scenarios for fashion where, meaning, luxury and narratives take new forms. After spending more than a year finding out what people value the most, which objects are dear to them and why. Aniela has identified 100 things that her interviewees care about and would consider turning into a diamond. Which answers the intimate question; What diamond source would align with your values? 'Diamond Makers' is a hybrid between a lab and a tailor-made retail experience, creating custom diamonds composed of unexpected items which hold emotional significance for the customer. Diamond Makers explores this area by exploiting the possibilities of already existing science, to fabricate lab-grown diamonds using a wide selection of surprising sources. Lab-grown diamonds grow under high temperature and pressure. They are formed from carbon which can be isolated from most types of organic ash. But maybe the diamond is in fact inconsequential or at least less significant than the meaning emerging from the source? What would be the value of the diamond made from the signature of the 'Diamonds Queen', Rihanna versus a diamond made from Notre Dame ash or your childhood teddy? What would those diamonds represent?' This focus on origin allows the customer of Diamond Makers to choose the meaning and emotional significance they want their diamond to have. The source is fully customisable and the selection process is designed to trigger personal reflection on values followed by desires. ADRIANA CHEDE Adriana Chede is half Brazilian half Lebanese was born in São Paulo and grew up in Brazil. Adriana completed a Product Design degree and courses in photography, fashion and goldsmith, before moving to Europe to study Jewellery Design at Parsons Paris and complete her Masters at the European Institute of Design in Rome. While developing her own aesthetic, Adriana worked with jewellery design houses in Copenhagen, Milan, Rome and Paris. She moved to London to set up her eponymous fine jewellery brand in 2018. For Ariana, jewellery has always represented a celebration of life. She discovered her passion for the craft in childhood when her father would give her mother a piece to celebrate the birth of each of their five children and special anniversaries. Through her modern, delicate collection pieces and her bespoke service, Adriana focuses on sustainability within her work, using recycled materials and responsibly sourced stones. Every piece of jewellery is handmade in her atelier, using natural Brazilian gemstones, diamonds, solid gold from recycled sources and sterling silver. The Sustainability Circle initiative offers customers credit for the price of the metal and discount on their next purchase. CLEMENCE GROUIN-RIGAUX Clemence Grouin-Rigaux is a French-born material designer based in London with an academic background in industrial design and graduated from Central Saint Martins with an MA Material Futures in June 2019. Clemence aims to change our perception of raw materials, re-engineer their qualities and eventually relocate them into new worlds. As a material designer, she challenges typical craft techniques and exploiting innovative manufacturing processes. By crafting everyday functional objects from a material of unusual origin, Clemence’s Hidden Beauty project aims to not only practically reduce the mountain of waste we generate every day, but also help to change our perception of it, both as a valuable commodity but also culturally as something that doesn’t need to be discarded. Every year in the UK approximately 2.6 million cattle, 10 million pigs, 14.5 million sheep and lambs, 80 million fish and 950 million birds are slaughtered for human consumption. Globally, the combined total of chickens (19 billion), cows (1.5 billion), sheep (1 billion) and pigs (1 billion) living at any one time is three times higher than the number of people, according to The Economist. It’s estimated 1 billion people are involved in the rearing, processing, distribution and sale of livestock, with half of those reliant on livestock for their livelihood. Agriculture as a whole makes up approximately 3% of global GDP, with livestock contributing 40% of that. The livestock economy is particularly important for poor rural populations in low- and middle-income countries. Animal remains present a constant and significant waste stream. Abattoir waste consists of blood, bone, fat, skin, hair, animal trimmings and urine, all of which can be hugely problematic to the environment by overwhelming natural eco-systems on our land, in our rivers and in our oceans. Although abattoir waste doesn’t yet have the same appeal as ocean plastic, it’s incredible to think of such huge volumes of potentially valuable materials go to unused. Interestingly, Clemence is vegetarian and has really pushed her own boundaries as well as challenging us to reassess our relationship with consumption and use on a fundamental level. After all, if we eat meat, why not make something beautifully useful from the by-products. www.blackneondigital.com

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha’s incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha. What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha’s superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis • boost various components of the immune system • protect the brain and nervous system • slow down or even kill abnormal cells • enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it’s standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let’s take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha’s benefits for health. What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we’re stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea). How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body’s response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.” No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual’s resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8]. The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body’s internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body’s response to stress. Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13]. Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects. Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body’s early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19]. The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities. Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29]. KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function. But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.   Deeper Dive Resources [1] An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. [2] Scientific basis for the use of Indian ayurvedic medicinal plants in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: ashwagandha. [3] Scientific Basis for the Therapeutic Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review. [4] Anti‐stress activity of sitoindosides VII and VIII, new acylsterylglucosides from Withania somnifera. [5] A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. [6] KSM-66 Ashwagandha Documentary [7] Society for Endocrinology: You and Your Hormones – Cortisol. [8] An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. [9] Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. [10] Withaferin A Protects Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance. [11] Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. [12] Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study. [13] The relationship between chondroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of Withania somnifera root and glucosamine sulphate on human osteoarthritic cartilage in vitro. [14] Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. [15] Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. [16] Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on Strength Training Adaptations and Recovery: The STAR Trial. [17] In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes. [18] In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. [19] In vivo, Extract from Withania somnifera Root Ameliorates Arthritis via Regulation of Key Immune Mediators of Inflammation in Experimental Model of Arthritis. [20] Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. [21] Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. [22] Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation. [23] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. [24] Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. [25] Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. [26] Identification of Withaferin A as a Potential Candidate for Anti-Cancer Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [27] Withaferin A inhibits expression of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase and enhances sensitivity of human breast cancer cells to cisplatin. [28] Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities. [29] Cytotoxic Withanolides from the Roots of Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera). [30] Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. [31] Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in male infertility: An evidence-based systematic review and meta-analysis. [32] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. [33] Safety assessment of Withania somnifera extract standardized for Withaferin A: Acute and sub-acute toxicity study.

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha’s incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha. What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha’s superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis • boost various components of the immune system • protect the brain and nervous system • slow down or even kill abnormal cells • enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it’s standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let’s take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha’s benefits for health. What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we’re stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea). How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body’s response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.” No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual’s resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8]. The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body’s internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body’s response to stress. Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13]. Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects. Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body’s early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19]. The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities. Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29]. KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function. But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.   Deeper Dive Resources [1] An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. [2] Scientific basis for the use of Indian ayurvedic medicinal plants in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: ashwagandha. [3] Scientific Basis for the Therapeutic Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review. [4] Anti‐stress activity of sitoindosides VII and VIII, new acylsterylglucosides from Withania somnifera. [5] A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. [6] KSM-66 Ashwagandha Documentary [7] Society for Endocrinology: You and Your Hormones – Cortisol. [8] An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. [9] Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. [10] Withaferin A Protects Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance. [11] Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. [12] Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study. [13] The relationship between chondroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of Withania somnifera root and glucosamine sulphate on human osteoarthritic cartilage in vitro. [14] Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. [15] Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. [16] Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on Strength Training Adaptations and Recovery: The STAR Trial. [17] In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes. [18] In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. [19] In vivo, Extract from Withania somnifera Root Ameliorates Arthritis via Regulation of Key Immune Mediators of Inflammation in Experimental Model of Arthritis. [20] Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. [21] Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. [22] Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation. [23] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. [24] Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. [25] Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. [26] Identification of Withaferin A as a Potential Candidate for Anti-Cancer Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [27] Withaferin A inhibits expression of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase and enhances sensitivity of human breast cancer cells to cisplatin. [28] Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities. [29] Cytotoxic Withanolides from the Roots of Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera). [30] Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. [31] Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in male infertility: An evidence-based systematic review and meta-analysis. [32] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. [33] Safety assessment of Withania somnifera extract standardized for Withaferin A: Acute and sub-acute toxicity study.

Standing Stones. Ever thought much about these unusual large standing stones, which probably bring to mind the famous Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England? You probably haven't, and for a good reason. We don't know much about them. These sizeable ancient rock formations come with little explanation. We guess the oldest to be 12,000 years old found in Turkey. Similar strange circles and other shapes pop up all over the world. They far predate any known language or alphabet, which goes a long way towards explaining why we don't know much about them. The engineering and precision of their placement are frequently so advanced they defy any logical explanation. Many also have unique astronomical dynamics to them, which are nothing short of impressive.As curious and baffling as these structures may be, one thing we do know: they have stood the test of time, weather, civilizations, and wars. They force us to ponder humanity before written history. From where have we come? To where are we going?For many such questions are irritating and cause impatience. There is food to be bought, children to attend, plants to water, and calls to return until there isn't. When the busyness stops, the loneliness kicks in, the fears arise, where do you turn?For two thousand years in the Western World, there is an answer to that question. Those big haunting questions land us with a visit to the local pastor or priest. This particular profession has provided a resource for the big questions in life. The clergy have listened, provided the skills of useful sounding boards, given wisdom and solace to point us beyond ourselves to something which makes suicide an unattractive alternative.But what happens when the busyness stops, the loneliness kicks in, the fears arise, and you be the clergy?Today we have with us two people who decided to answer this question. Interestingly, they chose to name the organization Standing Stone. Let's meet them.From Newport Beach, California, Jim and Debbie Hogan, the founders of Standing Stone Ministry, welcome to Church Hurts And.churchhurtsand.org

Standing Stones. Ever thought much about these unusual large standing stones, which probably bring to mind the famous Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England? You probably haven't, and for a good reason. We don't know much about them. These sizeable ancient rock formations come with little explanation. We guess the oldest to be 12,000 years old found in Turkey. Similar strange circles and other shapes pop up all over the world. They far predate any known language or alphabet, which goes a long way towards explaining why we don't know much about them. The engineering and precision of their placement are frequently so advanced they defy any logical explanation. Many also have unique astronomical dynamics to them, which are nothing short of impressive.As curious and baffling as these structures may be, one thing we do know: they have stood the test of time, weather, civilizations, and wars. They force us to ponder humanity before written history. From where have we come? To where are we going?For many such questions are irritating and cause impatience. There is food to be bought, children to attend, plants to water, and calls to return until there isn't. When the busyness stops, the loneliness kicks in, the fears arise, where do you turn?For two thousand years in the Western World, there is an answer to that question. Those big haunting questions land us with a visit to the local pastor or priest. This particular profession has provided a resource for the big questions in life. The clergy have listened, provided the skills of useful sounding boards, given wisdom and solace to point us beyond ourselves to something which makes suicide an unattractive alternative.But what happens when the busyness stops, the loneliness kicks in, the fears arise, and you be the clergy?Today we have with us two people who decided to answer this question. Interestingly, they chose to name the organization Standing Stone. Let's meet them.From Newport Beach, California, Jim and Debbie Hogan, the founders of Standing Stone Ministry, welcome to Church Hurts And.churchhurtsand.org

On this day in Tudor history, 22nd December 1557, Protestant martyrs John Rough and Margaret Mearing, were burnt at Smithfield for heresy. John Rough was a Scot who'd encouraged John Knox to be a pastor, but ended in days in England. Interestingly, the woman he died with was a woman he'd excommunicated from his congregation, believing her to be a spy. Although she'd been angry with her treatment, she was not the spy who betrayed him, she visited Rough in prison and was arrested after she tried to confront the real spy. Find out about John Rough's life and what brought him to England, how he'd come to be arrested, and what happened with Margaret Mearing, in today's talk from historian Claire Ridgway. John Foxe's account can be read at https://www.dhi.ac.uk/foxe/index.php?realm=text&gototype=modern&edition=1583&pageid=2052 Also on this day in Tudor history, 22nd December 1534, John Fisher, Bishop of Rochester, who was a prisoner in the Tower of London, wrote to Thomas Cromwell.In his letter to Cromwell, the poor bishop begged him for a shirt, sheet, food and books, as well as asking him to intercede with King Henry VIII on his behalf. It is so sad that a man who had served the king so loyally in the past had come to this, and, of course, the king's mercy would only stretch to commuting his method of execution to beheading.Find out more in last year’s video - https://youtu.be/9EwSBKVB16E 

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.”  Luke 1:46–47There is an age-old question that asks, “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” Well, perhaps it’s an age-old “question” because only God knows the answer to how He created the world and all the creatures within it.Today, this first line from the glorious song of praise of our Blessed Mother, the Magnificat, poses to us another question. “Which comes first, to praise God or to rejoice in Him?” Perhaps you’ve never asked yourself that question, but it’s worth pondering both the question and the answer.This first line of Mary’s song of praise identifies two actions taking place within her. She “proclaims” and she “rejoices.” Think about those two interior experiences. The question can be better phrased like this: Did Mary proclaim God’s greatness because she was first filled with joy? Or was she filled with joy because she first proclaimed the greatness of God? Perhaps the answer is a bit of both, but the ordering of this line in Sacred Scripture implies that she first proclaimed and as a result was filled with joy.This is not just a philosophical or theoretical reflection; rather, it is a very practical one that offers significant insight into our daily lives. Oftentimes in life we wait to be “inspired” by God before we thank and praise Him. We wait until God touches us, fills us with a joyful experience, answers our prayer and then we respond with gratitude. This is good. But why wait? Why wait to proclaim the greatness of God? Should we proclaim the greatness of God when things are difficult in life? Yes. Should we proclaim the greatness of God when we do not feel His presence in our lives? Yes. Should we proclaim the greatness of God even when we encounter the heaviest of crosses in life? Most certainly yes.Proclaiming the greatness of God should not only be done after some powerful inspiration or answer to prayer. It should not only be done after we experience the closeness of God. Proclaiming God’s greatness is a duty of love and must always be done, every day, in every circumstance, no matter what. We proclaim God’s greatness primarily because of Who He is. He is God. And He is worthy of all our praise for that fact alone.Interestingly, however, the choice to proclaim the greatness of God, both in good times and in difficult times, often also leads to the experience of joy. It appears that Mary’s spirit rejoiced in God her Savior primarily because she first proclaimed His greatness. Joy comes from first serving God, loving Him and giving Him the honor due His name.Reflect, today, upon this two-fold process of proclaiming and rejoicing. Proclaiming must always come first, even if we feel as though there is nothing to rejoice about. But if you can commit yourself to the proclamation of the greatness of God, you will suddenly find that you have discovered the deepest cause of joy in life: God Himself.Dearest Mother, you chose to proclaim the greatness of God. You acknowledged His glorious action in your life and in the world, and your proclamation of these truths filled you with joy. Pray for me that I may also seek to glorify God each and every day, no matter what challenges or blessings I receive. May I imitate you, dear Mother, and share also in your perfect joy.  Mother Mary, pray for me.  Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2020 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Becoming enlightened may not mean rising above everything. Instead, maybe it means zooming in. It's easy to believe that as we continue to get older, we care less and less about the details, and we care more about the "big picture." Interestingly, if you study individuals with high levels of excellence and experience, they tend to care deeply about the details and notice things others may not. This expansion of the current moment is the paradox of transcendence - only once we care deeply about the present moment, enough to notice the minute details, can we rise above it. ✨ Sponsor: Linode Thank you to long time sponsor and friends of the show Linode for sponsoring today's episode! Simplify your cloud infrastructure with Linode’s Linux virtual machines and develop, deploy, and scale your modern applications faster and easier. Listeners of Developer Tea can now enjoy $100 in free credit! You can find all the details at linode.com/developertea.

Today we discuss the conclusion to "Terra Firma Part 2" in Star Trek Discovery Season 3. We see the culmination of Georgiou's character arc, which I felt was nicely done. This two-parter has definitely change the way I see Mirror Georgiou and I'm loving it. So let's dig in and see what we can find to talk about in this episode. ----more---- Transcript Welcome to Nerd Heaven I’m Adam David Collings, the author of Jewel of The Stars And I am a nerd   This is episode 47 of the podcast. Today, we’re talking about Star Trek Discovery “Terra Firma Part 2”   And big news. It’s just been announced that Star Trek Lower Decks has an international distribution deal. It’ll be arriving on Amazon Prime in the U.K., Europe, Australia, New Zealand,  Japan, India, and more on the 22nd of January.   This has been a long time coming, but we’re finally going to be able to see it. Of course, at this point, I’ve pretty much had the entire first season spoiled for me, because, you know….I have access to the internet. Still, it’s good news.   So let’s talk about Terra Firma Part 2.   The description on memory alpha reads Georgiou uncovers the true depths of the plot against her, leading her to a revelation about how deeply her time on the USS Discovery truly changed her.   The teleplay for this episode was written by Kalinda Vazquez Based on a story by Bo Yeon Kim & Erika Lippoldt & Alan McElroy It was directed by Chloe Domont​ And it first aired on the 17th of December 2020.   Make it so. We pick up where we left off, in the mirror universe, onboard the ISS Discovery. We won’t see our prime characters until this whole thing with Georgiou is over.   .Michael is dragged kicking and screaming into the brig. Begging to be killed. That’s the honourable way out for a failed traitor. The Terran empire have a lot in common with the Klingons when you think about it. And that’s nothing new.   Michael says “every moment you keep me alive proves further how weak you’ve become. We learn the reason Lorca moved against her, the reason he got to Michael is because Mirror Georgiou was already being considered weak. She was losing her harsh edge, even before she met prime Michael. It turns out half of her biography opera was a lie. One thing I forgot to mention last week was how the story portrayed Georgiou as a peasant who rose up the ranks to emperor. I wonder if this part was true or false. This is a fascinating insight into her backstory, and while it may be a little bit of a retcon, it helps to make sense of the arc the character has been on.   Now that she's back in the mirror universe, Georgiou is learning just how much she’s changed. And Micahel is noticing. Rescuing Kelpiens, fretting over artists.   Interestingly, Gorgeous is starting to see what mirror Spock ultimately saw, with a little help from prime Kirk. The Terran Empire is not sustainable. They can’t go on like they are forever. Its downfall is inevitable. She tries to explain this to Michael.   Georgiou is only holding on to her power, at present, because of the loyalty of those who still serve her, like Owo and Killy. But how long will she be able to hold on to their loyalty if she really pursues peace?   Michael mentions an alliance is forming against them. This is the coalition we saw in season 1. Vulcans, Klingons, Andorians, Tellarite. Michael mentions a bunch of other races including the Denobulans, which was cool.   I have to assume the coalition of this time will eventually morph into the alliance that we saw in the mirror universe during Deep Space Nine. At that time, the empire had fallen and the alliance ruled the galaxy with almost as strong a fist as their predecessors. The main powers behind the alliance were the Klingons and the Cardassians.   The first thing Killy asks when she has a minute alone with Georgiou is “Why is Michael Burnham still taking up oxygen on my ship?” Killy already has her doubts about the emperor. Could Michael be right? Is Georgiou weak? I’m sure Killy has seen it. She knows Georgiou has changed. The only question she needs to wrestle with now is “what do I do about it?” Which option will best serve Captain Killy? She remains loyal, and I don’t think it’s because of anything Georgiou says here about trying to reforge a broken michael into a loyal subject. It’s because Killy doesn’t currently have the resources she needs to lead a revolution of her own. Terrans don’t really care about loyalty. They look out for number one. And she still thinks it’s in her best interest to support Georgiou.   I also think she is genuinely enamoured with the idea of being given the job of breaking Micahel. That sounds like a fun challenge to her. One she will embrace. Apparently, there is no greater interrogator than Killy. And that scares the hell out of me.   And then we get mirror universe opening credits. Just like Enterprise did with In a Mirror Darkly. Though they’re not as changed as what Enterprise did. The inverted colours work for me. The upside-down imagery not so much. I don’t really get that.  Had it been me, I’d have changed the starfleet logos to Terran empire logos. That kind of thing. But that would have taken a lot more work than just turning everything upside down.   Michael is pretty confident they won’t break her. At least, that’s what she says. I imagine that Terrans have a higher tolerance for pain than we do. I understand it was a little bit like that in the middle ages. When pain is a normal part of life, it’s not pleasant, but it’s accepted more readily. At least, so I’m told.   Killy’s interrogation doesn’t last long. She asks Michael to pledge her loyalty. Then zaps her with the agoniser booth. And then says “we’ll try again tomorrow. You don’t mind sleeping in there do you?” And this is pretty horrifying. She’s left in the booth all night. And every now and then, when she’s least expecting it, it will fire up and put her into incredible pain.   The agnoiser technology itself is horrific. The human body eventually shuts down to protect itself from pain, but this technology is designed to circumvent that, so the victim continues to feel the agony. So Detmer comes to see Michael. They all know these two were working together. Detmer tries to convince her to give in, because she won’t be able to cope with uch more. Plus, nobody has heard from Lorca. Which means he has abandoned Michael. There is no sense remaining loyal to him. And all of this makes a lot of sense. Lorca knows his rebellion is beaten. He can’t do it without Michael. That’s why he went through so many hoops to bring prime michael into the mirror universe. This also means they don’t have to bring Jason Isaacs back again. Which is a shame.   It also makes sense that Michael gives into Georgiou at this point. IF she is being offered a chance to redeem herself she’d be stupid and stubborn not to take it.   Then there’s a rather sweet scene as Georgiou shares a memory of walking with Michael through her night terrors to see the fireflies. She leaves a jar of fireflies on Michael's bed. And we get the impression that Georgiou is finally getting through to Michael.   And I think she actually is.   It’s obvious that Georgiou loves Michael as a daughter, and always did. And so she presents herself. I’m ready to pledge my loyalty to you.   But there’s a question here we’re all asking. Is she genuine, or is this all just part of Michael’s plan?   Michael goes and kills all her co-conspirators. (at least, those who are nearby. Lorca and his offsider are gonna be harder to find. There’s a cool shootout with Landry.   When Michael and Detmer come in with the badges of all the dead conspirators, it becomes clear that the forgiveness Georgiou is showing Michael doesn’t extend to Detmer. The kitchen is no longer serving Kelpien. Another of Georgiou’s changes. She can no longer stomach the idea of eating sentient beings. She no longer sees them as animals. She’s gotten to know Saru.   I think Michael is being honest when she says she no longer loves Lorca, and is willing to kill him. He abandoned her.   The culmination of Georgiou’s transformation comes when she tells Saru the truth about vahari. Essentially she frees the Kelpien people by revealing this information to him and telling him to share it with others.   Goergiou’s transformation has been accelerated by coming back to the mirror universe. Had she not come here, it would have remained the slow and steady change we’ve seen over the last few years. Sometimes you have to be reminded to who you were, in order to appreciate and embrace who you are becoming. This is all very well done, and is the heart of this two-parter.   And Georgiou says this world is her home. She vows to remain here and re-shape it into what it needs to become. Much as Spock will later on.   So now they’re on the hunt for Lorca, and they’re going to find him through his off-sider, Duggen. They find him in orbit of Risa.   And this is really cool. LAst week, we saw the return of Hannah Cheesman, who played Arium in season 2. She was just in the background, wearing a Terran uniform, but it wasn’t made clear exactly what role she was playing. Was this just an easter egg, like how they got all the alien actors to play humans in Vic’s bar in the final episode of DS9?   Now, we get confirmation she is indeed playing Arium. Remember, Arium was human, but she was injured in an accident and made into a cyborg in order to survive.   It seems that the mirror arium had no such accident and remained human. This also confirms that her name was Arium even when she was still human.   I love this. Very nice touch.   So they beam Duggen aboard to question him about Lorca.   And this is when the surprising but inevitable betrayal happens. Nice little nod to Firefly for you. All through this episode, I’ve hoped that Georgiou was successful in rehabilitating mirror Michael - turning her into something new. But deep down, always knowing that at any time, she may turn on Georgiou. So we’re really not surprised when it happens. Gorgeous isn’t surprised either. She’s become a lot more soft-hearted but she’s not stupid. She knew this was a likely scenario when Michael pledged her loyalty. She hoped for the best but she prepared for the worst.   Michael knew, the minute Goergiou spared her life, that she could never respect her mother again.   I love it when Georgiou says “I have changed. I have seen another way to live. Another way to rule.”   The prime universe has really had an impact on her.   So the battle begins. And again, it’s a cool fight. Discovery has always done action well.   Michael had a lot of people loyal to her. Were Culbert, Nilsson and the others co-conspirators all along, that Michael chose not to kill, or has she recruited them since her false return to grace? I suspect the latter.   Sadly, Georgiou is left with no other choice but to kill her daughter. Again.   Georgiou wakes up back on Dannus 5 with Michael and Carl.   She’s been in the mirror universe for months. From Michael’s perspective she passed out for less than a minute, but her wrist monitor has recorded 3 months of bio-readings.   She wasn’t transported bodily. She shared the body of an alternate Georgiou.  Carl has essentially spun off a new timeline off the mirror universe we know. A timeline that Georgiou has affected greatly. One where the Kelpiens may gain their freedom from the terran empire. Where some good has been done, at least.   Michael and Georgiou keep asking Carl, who are you really. The same question we’ve been asking. And finally, he answers. I am the Guardian of Forever. And they use the original voice recording from the original series. I thought the guardian was voiced by James doohna. I know he did a lot of alien voices, but no, the guardian was played by Bart LaRue. Apparently Doohan voiced the Guardian in the animated series, though. But I haven’t seen that episode. I really need to finish watching the animated series. It’s not great, but it’s still Star Trek.   Sadly, I didn’t feel anything much from this reveal, because it was spoiled for me. I woke up Friday morning, and within minutes, I saw this big reveal spoiled on Instagram. I was quite unhappy.   Spoilers are an interesting thing. I think there’s some responsibility on both sides. I’ve seen people on social media who’ve said things like “I plan to see this movie months after it releases, and heaven help anyone who spoils it for me.” That seems unreasonable. If you’re gonna wait that long, you have to take a little responsibility for protecting yourself, and understand that spoilers likely will happen during that time. But for a spoiler like this to be posted before the episode has even gone live on most of the planet, well, I think that’s a bit unfair. But, those who posted it have apologised and are going to hold to a 24 hour grace period, which I think is a really good idea.   Lower Decks is an interesting case. I’ve had much of that spoiled for me, because I move in the Star Trek circles online. I mean, that’s how I market this podcast. I don’t blame those who have posted spoilers. You can’t expect them to wait 6 months to talk about anything. I can’t even fully blame CBS. COVID kinda messed up their plans for releasing Star Trek.   Anyway, the door breaks apart and re-forms into the familiar stone portal from City on the Edge of Forever. I’m kinda surprised they went there. There was always a lot of controversy and disagreement around the use of the Guardian of Forever in Star Trek while Harlan Ellison was alive. I guess some agreement was met between CBS and his estate.   But this reveal is kinda like the reveal of Khan in Star Trek Into Darkness. It’s played as this big dramatic reveal, but it means nothing to Michael and Gaorgiou. It’s all just for the audience. Personally, I would have dispensed with the artificial suspense and just revealed the guardian properly in part 1. There’s no real reason for it to disguise as a door. A slight reason, perhaps, given it’s in hiding, but then why reveal itself now?   So we get some backstory of what’s happened with the guardian since TOS. When the temporal wars began, everyone kept trying to use the guardian as a weapon to kill each other. It wasn’t pretty. I can well understand the guardian not wanting to be used like that. So, it hid. It removed itself from its original location and hid here on Dannus 5. That makes sense. I kinda like how they tied the guardian into the temporal wars.   But what do I really think of this reveal? Well, it’s cool to see the guardian of forever again. No questions. It was one of my favourite things introduced in TOS. In fact, City on the Edge of Forever is my favourite TOS episode. But is this a good use of it?   I like the character of Carl. He’s cool. He has a fun personality. But, that’s not a personality I associate with the guardian of forever. The appeal of the guardian was it’s mysterious nature. Part mechanism, part being. Both and Neither. That big booming voice. And part of it’s appeal was also it’s setting. That mysterious ancient alien city left in ruins. Where did it come from? How and why was it created?   As much as I like Carl, I feel that he humanises the Guardian of Forever too much. I don’t want it to be humanised. I want it to remain mysterious and alien. That doesn’t mean I don’t want answers to some of the questions about it, but …. I don’t want it to be turned into a pleasant gentleman from the  1930s.   So ultimately, I think this was a mistake. I think they should have either: Made it obviously the guardian from the beginning and do away with Carl altogether. Or Forget the guardian, and just have Carl be a Q (which I still think really fits his personality) or have him be something new. Some new alien with Godlike powers.    I’ve always wanted to see the Guardian of Forever again, but just not like this.   But all of that aside, let’s look at what is explained next, because I do really like it. Georgiou is still dying. She wasn’t sent back to be cured. She was sent back to be weighed. To be tested. To see if she was worthy of the Guardian’s help. Would she make different choices? Has her time in the prime universe changed her? She doesn’t belong here, but sending her somewhere else could cause a lot of problems. The guardian doesn’t want to inflict another time or place with the dangerous Emperor Georgiou. But is she still dangerous?   What’s interesting is that Georgiou assumes she’s failed the test. She killed her daughter. Again. Carl is more interested in her heart than the outcome. And I like that.   Georgiou doesn’t want to go back to the mirror universe. Why would she? But that’s not carl’s plan. He’s going to send her to a time when the prime and mirror universes were still aligned, where her cells won’t fall apart. He doesn’t say exactly where or when. And we’ll talk about that shortly because I have some thoughts.   Carl believes Michael is just where she needs to be, so she can’t go with Georgiou. It’s nice that Geirgiou wants her, though.   So we have a very touching farewell between these two characters. It was wonderful.   We get a brief mention of Husan, the name mentioned in Georgiou’s episodes. She still doesn’t explain who he is, or what he meant to her. Michael tells her to tell the people she’s about to meet. So I guess this backstory will be revealed in the section 31 show. okay.   Georgiou has one final word of wisdom for Michael. This century is more Terran than the 23rd. Saru has navigated the change admirably but he’s not the only one suited for the captain’s chair. I’m not sure exactly what they’re trying to imply, but I thought we were done with the whole, will Michael take the captain’s chair thing. The way I see it, the only way for Michael to become captain of Discovery in any way that I'll accept is to get Saru out of the picture. Either kill or promote him. And frankly, I don’t want that, because Saru is one of my favourite characters.   And then she steps thorough, and is gone.   It’s funny. I really liked the prime Georgiou character, but never quite warmed to mirror Georgiou in the same way. But now, well, I’m really going to miss her.   So …. Where has she ended up?   For a long time, fans have been saying that Georgiou has to return to the 23rd century so she can star in the section 31 show. Now while I’ve never dismissed that possibility, my response has always been “Why are you assuming the section 31 show will be set in the 23rd century. We’ve never been told anything that would suggest that.” But people have been treated that as gospel.   I always thought there was at least an equal chance that the section 31 show would be set here in the 32nd century. Georgiou would leave Discovery to work with section 31 as she had in the past.   Well, we know that’s not the cast anymore.   The most obvious answer to the question is that she has returned to the 23rd century, as so many fans always assumed. And that’s a very likely scenario. But is it the only possibility?   Carl said he was sending her to a time when the prime and mirror universes were aligned. We know they were closely aligned in the 22nd, 23rd and 24th centuries, and on into the 27th, that was the time of the last incursion.   So Goergiou could be going anywhere within that window.   Here’s a wild theory for you. What if she’s going to the 24th, or early 25th century? That’s the time where we first learned about section 31, in Deep Space Nine. That’s where section 31 was used most effectively in story-telling.   This newly changed mirror Georgiou would fit in well with 24th-century section 31, and might even make them a little more moral than they are.   What if the setting of the Section 31 show is just after DS9, or more likely, around the time of Star Trek Picard? I can see that making a lot of sense, and I’d definitely be up for that.   Here’s an even wilder theory. She has been sent back to the time of Enterprise, and she ends up being the founder of Section 31.   I really like what they’ve done with Georgiou’s character. I used to complain that she was not evil enough, given who she was. But now, I have a different perspective. I see now that her time in the prime timeline has gradually changed her. Made her better., And I love that. And I really like the person she has ended up being. I think the arc could have been done a little smoother. I think they were kinda making it up as they went, rather than planning it from day 1, which is a shame. These things always work better for me when they’re been planned in advance.   So .. I’m not totally ready for a Michelle Yeoh lead spin-off. My only concern about the show is how they’re going to treat section 31. I felt that Discovery season 2 kinda ruined section 31. They didn’t handle it well. Have they learned from this? Will the section 31 we see in the new show be more like the section 31 we saw in Deep Space Nine? I can only hope. But I’m very eager to learn more about the show now. I’m especially keen to learn what the setting will be.   I’ll probably be disappointed if I learn it’s back in the 23red century. Strange New Worlds has that era covered. And honestly, I’m not pinning to have Tyler back. I didn’t like this character in season 2, so I don’t think he needs to be part of the new show.   Time will tell.   We finally return to Discovery, to see what our other characters are up to. Adira and Stamets are still trying to hack into the Kelpien ship’s sensors. But they’re having trouble. Book turns up with a device that will help. It’s emerald chain technology. So they finally check in with Vance, who is very concerned about using Chain technology on a Starfleet ship. It could be dangerous and Starfleet can’t afford to risk having their only ship with a spore drive compromised. Book is absolutely convinced it is safe. But I’m still concerned. They’re obviously setting something up here. I think it’ll become problematic in the next couple of episodes.   So this whole thing of Saru delaying his report on the Kelpien ship. I’m not fully following that.   Saru hasn’t seen another Kelpien in a long time, and this is a Kelpien ship. But ….. So what? It’s not like the Kelpiens are extinct. They’re a Federation member. Kaminar is still out there. I don’t quite understand Saru’s reason for not reporting the information to Vance as soon as he knew it. Did he think Vance would not want them to rescue it? I just don’t get it. I don’t know what the writers are getting at here.   Then we get another touching scene. It’s not quite a funeral, it’s just a little get -together to remember their friend who they’ll never see again. It was a lovely scene.   And this ends the story of Phillipa Gaorgiou, closing a story that began with the first episode of season 1.   In a way, this two-parter has seemed a bit like a distraction from the greater season plot, but I’m totally cool with it. The character arcs are just as important to this season as the burn story is.   And I, for one, have really enjoyed Terra Firma Parts 1 and 2. We’re getting close to the end now. Just 3 episodes to go. Next week we’ll be talking about episode 11 “The Citadel.” I’m excited to see what happens as the season’s plot arc goes into top gear. It should be cool.   And I’ll be watching that episode on Christmas day. But I’ll be on holiday by then.I plan to get my podcast out Monday morning, Australian time, as always.   I’ve revamped the books page on my website, so if you’re interested in trying out some of my fiction, you can see it all nicely laid out at AdamDavidCollings.com/books I’d encourage you to check it out.   Until I see you next, have a great week, Merry Christmas, live long and prosper.

This week Alaina’s got a two parter, pretty close to home for us! Tony Costa, a hippie living around Provincetown in the 60’s, was a real shady character from the start. When he was a teenager he straight up broke into the home of a girl two years younger than him, proceeded to drag her down the stairs, and later told police he, “just wanted to talk to her!” Ok, Tony. It only gets weirder from there. Patricia Walsh and Mary Ann Wysocki head to the cape for a relaxing weekend getaway and meet Tony during their stay. Interestingly enough, they never return home and Tony is the last person to see them. Alaina recommends the book, In His Garden by Leo Damore  As always, thank you to our sponsors SquareSpace: Check Out http://Squarespace.com/MORBID for a free trial! When you’re ready to launch, use the offer code MORBID to save 10% off your first purchase Gabi: You’re probably overpaying on car and home insurance. See how much Gabi can save you. Go to http://Gabi.com/MORBID. FirstLeaf: Go to http://TRYFirstleaf.com/morbid for 6 bottles of wine for $29.95 and free shipping HelloFresh: Go to http://HelloFresh.com/80morbid and use code 80morbid to get $80 off including free shipping!

In this conversation I talk to Ilan Gur about what it really means for technology to “escape the lab”, the power of context to shape the usefulness of research, the inadequacies of current institutional structures, how activate helps technology escape the lab *by* changing people’s context, and more. Ilan is the CEO and founder of Activate, which is a nonprofit that runs a fellowship enabling scientists to spend two years embedded in research institutions to mature technology from a concept to a first product. In the past, he has also served as a program director at ARPA-E and was a cofounder of Seeo, where he commercial new high-density battery technology. Links Activate Ilan on Twitter Ilan on My Climate Journey Podcast  Transcript In the past, we've talked about the, how the whole process of really turning hardcore scientific research into products that have an impact on people's lives is fairly abstract to people outside of the system. Since you've both walked the path and now help other people do the same, let's round the conversation. would you go into detail on what the actual actions you need to take to go from say, being a graduate student who just published a paper on a promising battery technology to an improved battery in a car. That's that's a great place to start. let me try and answer that from a few different dimensions. I'll, I'll start by answering it, just from an anecdote about my personal experience, which I've shared in other places, but, you know, I basically. Went into my PhD program because I felt like the field I was studying material scientists, material science could, be the biggest way to make a big impact on climate change by basically taking new science and turning it into the next generation of all the technologies. We need to have a sustainable economy. And, I was working in nanotechnology, joined. Kind of the world, the best research group in the world that that was working on how nano materials could improve solar cells. and this is before the, the enormous solar market that exists today exists. There was a sense at the time that, you know, we needed a completely new generation of technology to make solar ubiquitous and cost effective. And so, you know, we had this great mantra around how we were going to print solar cells like newspapers, using these small colloidal nano, semiconductors. and the research was phenomenal. we were driven by the fact that what I like to say is, you know, we wrote a science paper where the first paragraph, like any, talked about how the research was going to change the world. And it wasn't until I randomly got connected with some business school folks at Berkeley, where I was doing my PhD. and they actually. It didn't take long. they put me through just a few cycles of digging one level deeper into, how solar cells were actually made, how they were sold, what determined their, their costs and the cost of energy they produce. and I ended up, you know, over the course of a few weeks with a spreadsheet that I still have somewhere, which told me that. If we hit all of our targets and our research in terms of what we thought could change the world. we would end up with a solar cell where even if you gave it away for free, it couldn't compete with the existing state of the art Silicon solar cells at the time. and it was a really. Simple idea, which was, we were making dirt cheap solar cells, but they probably wouldn't last very long. And we didn't think that was such a big deal. You just print some more. and yet, certainly at the time, and it's still true. It's such a, such a predominant amount of the cost of solar energy came from the balance of systems and installations. And I bring up the story because, for me, it was a tipping point. We had so much excitement about our research. It was even published in Forbes, you know, so a business magazine, and. It just showed how it showed, how easy it was to think you were doing something productive and successful. I it's not that I, I, I was in academia, but the reason I was there was to try and get something productive that could turn into a product. Right. And I had missed the boat so much, even with that intention. and so that was a shock to me. And so. That was kind of the first lesson around how, you know, institutions matter and incentives matter. but what I ended up doing was then leaving academia and jumping into an early stage startup, which was an amazing vehicle to think about how this transition happens and, you know, basically the learning there, and, This is what we now, you know, this is a lot of what we now indoctrinate and try and help people understand in the fellowship we run, was that, you know, the depth and multitude of elements that determine whether a technology can actually make it from the research stage to a product in the market. You know, first of all, you know, the idea is like, you know, the easy part in some regard. but yeah. You know, the number of levels deeper, you have to go to understand, okay, how is it going to be, how is it actually going to be valuable? Who's going to buy it. Why are they going to buy it? You know, how does, how does the whole system get built to make it, it's it's a month multi-dimensional problem where everything needs to line up between finance and the team you have in the market yet. And it's technology. and. You know, for me, I think, you know, this we've talked before, one of the biggest things that I've come to realize is we've got, you know, we've got hundreds of billions of dollars that government spends to do the idea and ideation. We've got hundreds of billions of dollars that the private sector spends to basically take the early prototypes and the idea of a product and scale it. and we've got really very little, that goes into how you do all the really hard stuff of translating one to the other. Yeah. So, so let's like what I'm going to actually continue to poke at. Like, what is that actual stuff? So the, the start that you joined did w what, what sort of was the origin of the technology that you were working on? I assume it came out of a lab somewhere. I, yeah, I was involved in two startups. One was after that epiphany moment in my PhD work, I basically threw out the work we were doing, and shifted gears and ended up developing the technology. That was the basis for, for actually a solar startup thinking about sort of thin-film, nanocrystal based, solar cells, Basically realizing that the, that the lifetime was so important, we just threw out all of the organics that we were working on and focused on. Like, you basically just need a new manufacturing approach to make something that looks like a traditional solar. So, that was a company that I kind of helped establish, but then ultimately didn't go. I was, I was meant to be sort of the founding, you know, grad student turn CTO. and then, for a number of reasons, didn't end up jumping into that as a startup and instead, through. Just some of the serendipity of being in the Bay area and Silicon Valley ended up, on the founding team of a battery startup that came out of another research lab at Berkeley. and this was funded by, Samira and Vanessa who, when, when coastal ventures was just going to start it. yeah, so, so like let's so. W when we say coming out of a lab, I think it's actually worth almost disecting what that means. Cause I suspect that it means different things to different people. and so, so someone in the lab. Did some research, figure it out. Okay. We think we can extend it was, it was a lifetime, et cetera, extended battery lifetimes, or, this was about making or energy batteries, higher energy density, batteries that were still safe and stable. using basically solid electrolytes. so, so they like publish her paper, like, like I assume that there's like, like they do some experiments. They come up with like the core. sort of process improvement. It's like, okay, we, we make batteries this, this old way, and now we need to make batteries at different way that will eventually make the battery into something useful. then what did, like, what did they need to do? What do you, what did you all do? Yeah, the origin story of CEO is I think a great one. So ingredients in this case and, and some, and there are some universal, I think things that you can pull out of this, you had a couple of graduate students and a professor at Berkeley, Natasha Bulsara, doing research, basically a polymer expert who starts doing research in terms of how polymers can be applied to batteries. the, the business as usual or the incentive structures within universities generally, you know, would say for Natasha to be successful in his career, he needs to make some new discoveries. He needs to write some great papers. he needs to advance, you know, as an academic, right. And he was doing that. and. In this case, it took this moment where, you know, Natasha was a dreamer and had, you know, just had a sense of, well, wait a second, I want this to be useful. I think this can be useful. He kind of had a zero with order idea that there's this problem in batteries, where, you know, you can, if you try and use high energy density, electrodes, like lithium metal, they can short across and lithium metals, flammable and combustible. And so, you know, There's this idea that you could make a high energy density battery. Unfortunately, it starts to look more like a bomb than a battery. and he, you know, to zero with order, the polymers that he's making could solve that problem, right. It could be robust and strong mechanically and still be highly conductive, for ions and. Tasha to his credit is audacious enough to say, Oh, and this is a time to, we have to recognize when venture capitalists are interested in funding these things at the early stages. Right? So it takes Natasha being audacious enough to say, I think we can, we can start something. And then it takes someone in this case, like the node who is as audacious as it comes in saying, well, I think batteries are going to be a big deal. I think this is a really smart team and they'll figure it out. And so like, let's start a company here. it turns out and, you know, I don't really, I don't know if anyone will be upset at this point to say this. Right. Like I joined the company, not being a battery expert. I kind of was the entrepreneurial scientist who jumped in to kind of help start it. You know, I had a meeting with severe, he said like, all right, buy a cell phone. And like, you'll be employee number one, like just, just go and let's start. So there's a whole nother story about that, but, It wasn't until I was in the, you know, and coastal ventures decided to fund it. and then I actually saw the diligence, the early diligence that coastal ventures had done on the idea. And it was like battery expert. I won't say who world-renowned battery expert, who I now highly respect. Basically said, this is total BS. You know, like there is no way this, this idea and this technology could solve this problem for these 10 reasons. and what I love about the node, and what allows him to really catalyze new things, things is, he just said he just ignored it. He said like, all right, the experts don't think it's possible. Fine. you know, and invested in any way, a couple of million dollars to go, you know, to go start this company. And so. You know, you have me as a scientist, who's motivated to be entrepreneurial, but has no experience. And you have a, like really incredible, you know, genius academic professor out of Berkeley and two of his students that are really entirely scientific in their thinking at the time. and now all of a sudden, like we're in a startup and we're meant to go develop a product. And so this question of like, well, what does that actually take? Like, you know, we just got thrown into the deep end, about that. but you know, the first thing is some people to just be audacious and say, there could be value created here. Let's take these individuals. And this was one of the reasons why I found it cyclotron road and now created activate like the origin story was let's take these individuals and get them into a different mode of how they're thinking about their R and D. And there was just an, there was an entire phase transformation that happened where all of a sudden, you know, Natasha and Mohit and Hani, and I, are now in a startup and. Our only reason for existence is figuring out how you make a product that could be impactful and get out to the market. And jeez, like, you know, I mentioned zero with order before, because like at the first order, all of the assumptions around why that technology could have been valuable in batteries were not all of them, but most of them were wrong. and, and yet now there was no choice. We were all, I mean, Antosz was still a professor, but the rest of the team is basically now in a mode. We're like, okay, we got to figure out how to make something valuable for batteries. You know, ideally starting with the technology that we have. and you know, it's funny, you're I think your audience, a lot of your audience is sort of scientific and technical. So what I like to say now is like, if you want to move science to products, you need to live for some time and a superposition of those States. before you can kind of collapse the wave function and understand like, where, like, what is it that you have. And for me, like what was so lucky was because of the node was there to be able to put that speculative money in those first 18 months of co, like we weren't a research project anymore, but we certainly weren't a company. and we had to figure out like, Okay. Which parts of this are just still interesting research that Natasha can keep doing this lab, which he did. And he benefited from, and which of these might actually turn into something that could be valuable to the market and a product. I'm not actually sure. I'm answering your question. I think you are. I think we're, we're getting to it. I'm going to like, sort of tease it out. Cause I think it's actually really like, I, I love this because it, I think that it is probably different for every situation, but then there are these similarities where it, so actually, so like during that, that 18 months, what did you spend your time on? So I assumed there was some amount of like going and talking to battery companies and like trying to figure out their end and then some amount of like, It's like, like you were still doing experiments, like, Well, first of all, it's worth noting. You know, there's so much value in taking some smart folks and putting them in a different mode of working. But the idea that the way to do that aggressive applied research was to be in a startup. There's a, there's a bunch of activation barriers there that we have to cross. So luckily even node and the financing, wasn't one of them, he made that easy. but then it's like, Oh shit, like where are we going to do this work? and it's like, we can't meet up at a Starbucks and open our laptops and start prototyping. So like, my job as employee, number one, as unsexy as it was, was like buy a cell phone and like figure out like, Where are you guys going to work? You know, like, Oh, we got to find space. We gotta, you know, I gotta go call em Bron and negotiate, you know, glove glovebox order. and see whether I can find some way, because frankly for them to build us a custom blood box is going to take three to five months. And like, I want it in six weeks, you know, like, how are we going to do that? so that's, you know, like that's number one that was kind of just table stakes, you know, then. And I think this is the tough part, in this transition, especially when you start with venture capital, which is, you know, the team has certain assumptions, those zeros or assumptions around. Here's how we think it was valuable. So obviously like the node wasn't going to fund without at least like, Some plan around like, okay, we're going to take your money. And here are the experiments or the development we were going to do. Right. So the development was like, okay, we've got a polymer that can do X, Y, and Z. And we need a polymer that could do a, B and C. And so the first part of this effort is going to be to, you know, we're gonna. Take the synthesis. We're going to make these better polymers. We're going to show that we can get the properties you need for it to be valuable. we're going to show that we can develop a process where this can actually be a scalable polymer to produce because otherwise it's going to be way too expensive. Yeah. And then we're actually going to figure out, like, how do you make a battery so that we can show that you can put this into a battery. And what's interesting is you look at all three of those things. If we were to go back and look at the early plans and experiments that we had on those. Like they were totally, you know, they're pointed in the wrong direction because we didn't understand what the real problems or, and so you then set out on, you set out on building the, the lab infrastructure and the experiments to go do that. I mean, all you can do is March in the direction that you is your current assumption. Right. and so that's what we did. we found. We were, I remember like the node was blown away just in terms of the rate at which we were able to make progress. and then alongside that, you know, my job as the kind of person to start thinking about how the technology met the market within the team, you know, like I started going to industry conferences and shadowing people. On the technical side that I knew just walking around with them and asking questions. And I started to realize, Oh, you know, we, in our, in our thinking, we said that X innovation was going to make the battery five times better. Like once you actually understand how the battery gets made and what the convention is and the different, like, it turns out that five times better as closer to like 1.2 times, it's better. Like, you know, the differences were that big. Yeah. and so, So then this really hairy and stressful process of, okay, w we want to make progress against the dimension, but here we are learning things where that suggested like that vector, you know, our assumptions were wrong and maybe it's not actually as important as we thought. And now you've got to figure out, okay, well, how do we change our experiments to actually work in a direction that matters with a lot of limited information and. You know, that's, it's an insane process. it's an insane and hairy process from so many elements because it's, you know, imperfect information. you know, sometimes you don't, it's, it's a lot of unknown unknowns where like, you're not, you're not totally even missing the thing that's going to kill you. meanwhile, you have different people on the team, who all are at different levels of, of their own understanding and perception around, you know, Maybe difference in the, in the spectrum of like a dreamer of like, yeah, people are telling us it won't be as good, but like radically can be, you know, and it's like, yes, theoretically, it can be, I'll give you an example from, from the CEO days, which is. You know, theoretically lithium metal as a, as an anode and a battery can give you enormous energy densities. cause rather than sticking the lithium ions and holding them within some other material. Right? So in the battery, normally Lithium's, intercalated into some other compounds. So you have to carry the weight and volume of that compound around in your battery. Even though it's not playing an active role, lithium lamp metals, pure lithium. So you don't have to carry any of that baggage around. And so you can have a really lightweight small battery. You know, one of the big epiphanies for us was like, yes. if you can essentially have a two micron thick. Piece of lithium in your battery. and the way we were thinking about making the batteries, it was like you take a piece of lithium foil that would make it so easy and you'd have lithium foil, the, one of the electrodes that you've turned into the battery, you know, so one of the aha moments as stupid as it was, was like, all right, let's go source a five micron thick foil of lithium, right? No, like, that's not like no one makes that. because guess what? Like, you know, lithium at those, you can't even handle with them at that thickness. Cause we've just burst into flame, you know? well, no, cause it was just too, you know, Lithium's not very robust mechanically. Okay. So like you can buy a hundred microns, thick foil of lithium and handle it nicely and easily. And you can buy that really cheap. You start talking to people about like, can I source 10 microns of lithium? And, you know, and they say, yeah, you can, there's one person, there's one group in the world that can do that for you. And it's going to cost a thousand, 10,000 times more than a hundred microns. Now, all of a sudden, like the entire, the entire proposition goes away. and then you're stuck saying like, okay, does this kill the idea? Or actually it probably means we got to figure out a different way to get two to five micron thick lithium. Which is like an entirely new development path and expense that we just never thought about, you know? And is it gonna work? Is it gonna be possible? So this is like, you know, this is that there's this multi Plex, you know, divergent and crazy, you know, optimization that has to happen in terms of like, okay, what do we do next? And, and at the. End of it where you actually building batteries or were you like ha ha like, what is the, like, once you figure out the, like, once you've sort of like gone through that optimization, you actually even have a process to make batteries better. Like, how does that process end up in a device that's using a battery, Yeah. great question. So in that multi sort of, multi-dimensional. Development that we had to be doing. You know, one of the questions basically was like, okay, let's imagine we can make this phenomenal electrolyte, which could enable this phenomenal battery, like a, how are we going to actually prove that the battery is better? You know? you could imagine partnering with battery companies to do that existing battery companies, but like they have no idea how to handle our stuff. Yeah. And they don't have the equipment. So like, no, we can't do that. Like we got to figure out how to make batteries ourselves. So now, like all of a sudden, like you've got an innovation, which is a materials innovation for a component of the battery that you can think Naval and stuff anymore. And all of a sudden, like we have to figure out how to make batteries okay. And produce them. and then we need to think about, are we just going to produce them as at the pilot stage? And then we'll teach a partner how to produce them, or are we going to actually have to build in our little startup, like the entire battery manufacturing capability for this entirely new batteries. And this is where that multidimensional optimization and what we like to tell our fellows now is like, You know, everything has to align in terms of the way you're going to go build this. So for instance, you can have, and I like to think about this in thermodynamics and kinetics. Like the thermodynamics can be great. Oh, we actually do have a magic material that could build a magic battery and we think it's possible. Like we know it's possible. And then the kinetics could kill you. Meaning for us as a small company to actually build out and figure out how to manufacture these at scale, it might take $200 million of capital to do the development, to figure that out. if at that moment in time, the venture capital community doesn't have the appetite to put $200 billion into a battery manufacturing company, then that's not going to happen. And that's going to be the reason why that entire vector doesn't make sense. so this is, you know, like the idea that to navigate how something is going to get to a product into the market. There's a lot of strategy, but there's a lot of dynamic optimization that needs to happen as you learn more and you understand your context. And one of the things you and I have talked about this a little bit, but one of the things that's that for me is the biggest challenge in this, especially for hard technologies that take infrastructure and capital and manufacturing is. There's in theory, there's a really broad, in terms of ways, you can take an idea from research and get it out to market. And what I mean by that is you can, from the university lab, Natasha could have licensed the technology to a big company, right? he could start a company which he did and that company could raise venture capital money to go try and become the biggest battery manufacturer in the world. and raise a lot of money or it could spend some time working and developing technology and then it could license it to a big company where it can be acquired by a big company. Yeah. Interestingly w the lesson learned for me was one, the only way we were able to get that group of people into the mode where we were working aggressively in the supplied R and D way was because of a node gave us a couple million dollars. Yeah. But now the entire organization of the startup was founded on the nodes venture capital money. And the node is notorious in the best possible way of being an amazing venture capitalist. In the sense that his view is if I'm going to invest in you as a VC, my goal is to make you the next multi-billion dollar company. That is the industry leader in this space. And my incentive is to make my bets count. Yeah. And so I would rather do everything. I would rather do everything we can to get it, to beat that you you've learned and adapted this so that it can be the biggest battery company in the world or fail Trump. and there are no other sort of off routes. And what I mean by that is, you know, we recognized, we recognize probably two years in a CEO that. The idea that we could line up all those stars and create a battery. You know, I, I remember learning, you know, the battery manufacturing industry, you looked at the most successful battery manufacturers like Panasonic's battery manufacturing business unit had like 5%, margins in terms of like income net income, or operating margins. And. You basically said, like, I don't know how to justify a big, massive multi-billion dollar business. That sucks. It's a shitty business. Right? Like, so, so we started, then we started thinking like, and we even have a chance at that. Like we gotta go figure out how to we had enough money to go figure out how to manufacture an entirely new battery chemistry. Like I w how are we going to do that? And so it started to realize like, And we had developed, we had some really amazing ideas. We had a really amazing kind of early development and validation, and we had people from big corporates coming to us with a lot of interest, including one that ultimately came through an intermediary. We got the sentence. Well, maybe there's an acquisition here that someone would want to do. And this was early in the company. and you know, the VC board that we had basically said, like, okay, we know we put, we put $5 million in, you could get acquired for $30 million. The technology could end up in a company that actually has the ability to manufacture and the distribution channels. and their view was no, that's not good. That's not, I mean, you know, basically if you think about it, if I'm a venture capitalist and I funded you out of a $500 billion fund, right. what I need you to do is. Build a company that's big enough that returns to me and to my investors. You know, something on the order of hundred, a billion dollars, right? If you returned to me $30 million after three years, it's an amazing return on investment from a, from a pure kind of, we gave you X, you turned it into Y, but in absolute terms, I've spent three years with you. And all you're giving me back for my fund is, you know, 30 million bucks, which doesn't move the needle. You basically proven to me that I just wasted the last three years from you, because you're not the thing that's going to make the fund successful. Yeah, it's a really long-winded story. But the point of the story is to suggest that, even though there are a lot in theory, there are a lot of different ways to get the technology out to market and to get it to scale. Capital sources and institutional structures and incentives. They all act as band pass filters. and they cut you down where all of a sudden, like your only option to be successful is in some narrow range. and. That's. Yeah, it's just an interesting thing too, to think about relative to how we encourage more of this. Yeah. Oh, well, I really appreciate you going down into the nitty gritties because I think it's, one just valuable to sort of have out there. Like, I feel like people don't go into that and what it does is it then sort of frames the work that you're doing both at activate and that you did do at RPE, because I feel like both of those, like that sort of your whole. career has now been trying like the hypothesis of my life. Yes. Yeah, exactly. It's like, so it's like, how do we play with those constraints? actually one question I have about this idea of the phase change, and sort of let's, let's look at the phase change, the, the super position. Do you feel like the idea of, of kind of. Burning the boats in a way of like taking that VC money, that then sort of really focused you on, on the product. Do you think that that is. Essential or like, because like, I, I actually, I've sort of like mixed, like I have very mixed feelings because as you pointed out, like it both focused you, but at the same time, it, it put those constraints on you that you sort of like needed to go big and go home or go home. and so sort of like left. Didn't leave a lot of room for playing. So, so where, where do you, where do you come down on this sort of, like going all in or like, is there, is there like a point in time when it's correct to do that? We got to think about a few they're few different pieces. So I think what you're asking, you know, One is, is it essential to get into a different institutional mindset or structure or incentive structure to do this translational work? The other is, is it essential that you're all in, so to speak, right? That that's your entire life? I think with, with very few exceptions, the first is essential. and the second is important. and. But, but maybe, you know, but, but maybe not essential. I mean, the, you know, the, this is the, I mean, this is the reason why we created activate, and this is the reason why, you know, we started cyclotron road as, as kind of the precursor experiment, which was, The first thing we have to recognize is like, we've lost big picture, at least in the U S but I think this is true globally. Like we've lost a really critical modality of how we do research, with which is a place with amazing people who understand science and engineering at the earliest stages of technology development and who are incentivized to create a product to create something practical. And, you know, I think you, you know this, right? Like, you know, this story, but the best research in the world used to happen in companies. and, and you know, whether it was the companies themselves funding it, you know, think about bell labs, whether it was the companies themselves funding it. Whether it was funding that was really government funding through a monopoly that allowed them to fund it, or whether the government funded it directly, which the government used to fund a lot of research within companies, because guess what that's where the best research in the world happened. you know, we had, we had people who were thinking about who understood cutting edge science, and yet we're in an organizational structure that cared about products. and now we have, frankly, startups are one of the only places that we really have that in an intense way. Yeah. Oh, and I was going to, and that startups, you, you don't have as much of sort of that continued institutional knowledge, right? Like you have, a bunch of people, like a bunch of people who, as you said, like, are sort of new to that phase and that, that way of thinking, And I guess so, so we could almost sort of think of, of activate as allowing people to be in that super position longer. Would that be an accurate way of describing it? I mean, that's exactly it, which is why we take right. Our fellowship takes people who have the motivation to go figure out how the research gets out of the lab. It basically simulates for them what the first couple of years. Would look like in a, the node funded early stage startup. but without the constraints of that funding, meaning they have all of a sudden, it's like, Oh shit, they've got two years. Their entire life and success in their life at that moment is can I figure out how my research turns into something valuable and yet there's not the supposition that they already have something valuable, right. That would be putting the cart before the horse. Right. They're really allowed to explore that and figure out, Oh, you know what. You know, we've got a fellow who spent time in the program and then said, actually, no, like this isn't for me. And he's now a professor at Oxford, you know, we've got other fellows in the program who have said, actually this isn't for me and now they're running groups at Apple. and, and then we have a lot that spend that time and they say, Oh, you know what? This is a start. This is the majority of them. Like, and the startup is the right vehicle to move this forward. But then we get this additional classification that comes in, where some of them are saying, you know what? And this is, and I want to go build a VC, go big, go home startup. And I'm going to go raise money from Linode or someone like him. But we have others who have taken the time and that superposition to say, there's something valuable there. We built here, but the traditional venture capital funding model, you know, the time counts, it's not going to work well for me at this stage. So now I'm going to try and build something in a different way, you know, partnering with corporations and selling early things to them. If you think about, you know, we focus at activate on, you know, hard. Physical natural science technologies and with really focused on industrial markets. And what I like to say is, if you think about the biggest industrial companies in the world, it's hard to find many that have their origin stories in a financial VC funding landscape, right? Yeah. most of them have had to build, you know, what I like to say is in industrial markets, it would harder technology. The incubation period between proof of concept or sorry between proof of interest in the marketplace and proof of value is very high, meaning, it can take a long time for something that could be valuable. To actually be accepted by the industry as we actually believe this is valuable because we've, de-risked the technology enough, it's been in the field for, you know, a hundred thousand hours or whatever else. And so those, what you find is that to get technologies that can go into those markets and companies that can have the reputation of being able to deliver with the reliability, et cetera, that you need. Oftentimes it's the slower growth companies that just took a lot more time to incubate. We don't have right now capital. We don't have capital structures that allow people to build those kinds of companies. I'll stop. No, send me like riled up in different dimensions and this, this is so good. so the extreme version of that argument would be that just the, the timescale and the return expectation of. The venture cap, venture capital as a, as a institutional structure, just doesn't align with the, sort of the necessities of a lot of hard technology like that. That's, that's the extreme version of, and you're, you're welcome to push back on that, but. That's that that's the hypothesis. In other words, often align, it only aligns in these magic convergent moments where, you know, the market is, you know, way out of equilibrium and wants to move on, you know, a hundred times faster. And, and there, there are great counterpoints to all of this. Right. you know, the counter points are, you know, like if, if the market is not, Let me think about what the counterpoint yeah. Look at. Look at the automotive market, right? it wasn't until the automotive market basically. Realized like, Oh, like internal combustion vehicles may be dead. Like our entire business and capabilities may be dead. That all of a sudden they're willing to make big investments in acquisitions and take things on. and you know, I think from the financial lens, the argument would be, okay, well, don't just push the technology. Don't, don't push on a rope, meaning like to innovate in the electric vehicles before anyone actually has any appetite, but. As you know, it's not like then the world will never change, you know, like I never push it. the story I love on this is, You know, Dick's, Watson's at our board at SunPower. Dick was the founder of a company called SunPower. that was one of the first kind of biggest solar companies in the world when the solar market took off, it still is, Dick left his job as a tenured professor at Stanford in the mid to late seventies, mid seventies to go start a solar energy company, the world expert in the field. and he basically. It felt like university wasn't the right mode for him. and at the time, the idea of like building a solar company that put solar cells on your roof, like, you know, th the cost of solar energy with the Silicon solar cell would probably, you know, it was like, I don't know, somewhere between 50 and a hundred X, what would make economic sense? And this is in the mid seventies, you know, Dick founded like. Against all odds built a small team with government grants with early investors was able to spend 15 to 20 years building a, like a suite of technology around solar, getting the data points around validation and everything else. And I think a lot of people, I imagine a lot of VCs and others who interacted with them at the time, just thought, you know, This guy's nuts. Like he's going to be spending his whole life just kind of building and tinkering and it's, this is not a real business, you know? And then in the mid nineties, all of a sudden, you know, Japan and Germany decided let's make solar real and they put some real incentives and subsidies in place. And all of a sudden there was this market and it just so happened that Dick and his company and the way he says it is like he was at the time he got to the point where he understood how to. You understood how to make the cells work, how to make them cheap, how to manufacture. what he didn't understand was how to make them, like, you know, how to make a million cells a day, a million wafers a day. and it just so happened that at, at that moment, you know, the market was starting to turn on. He bought TJ Rogers is running Cypress semiconductor who says like, Oh, well we know how to manufacture things at scale. we don't do a million wafers a day, but, but that's an interesting challenge. and now all of a sudden, there's an opportunity to take everything Dick's done and create a massive business and a massive new industry. Yeah. and so, you know, like, Is there a way to encourage people to be as like ridiculously, you know, naively, you know, whatever, like whatever it was that you would call J Dick in the, in the first part of that journey. Tenacious. I don't know. But what I know is there are a lot of people and we've now seen this in the fellowship program. Like, and you've probably seen this, like, there are a lot of scientists, engineers who are willing to commit to decades of their life to go develop a field, to develop something that can make that impact. And. what I know is if Dick would have decided to commit those two decades at Stanford, he would have learned 0.0, zero 1% of the things he needed to learn, to figure out how that technology was going to be productive and valuable. No, no. Dig on Stanford. Just again, it's like that's, that's how academia doesn't incentivize like actually going out and like building the same thing over and over again. So I've spent a lot of time thought thinking about this, and frankly, where I end up is you can't, you can't blame VC or wall street, right? Like, you know, frankly, the earliest investors in Dick's company, a company that might take, you know, Edison talked about like you can't beat compound interest. Like those investors are not going to make their money, no matter how successful it happens. If the success starts 20 years later. and so. The only way to encourage that type of work at that stage is to start to think about Dick's company in the early stages, as a research lab, as a really interesting applied research lab and what I'm hoping and what I've been really working toward is how do we get to government to realize that like startups, a network of startups, you know, a constellation of starting, however you want to think about it, like. Like that should be the most powerful way to do applied research, I think in today's world. Yeah. there are a lot of problems with how you do that. There are a lot of challenges in how you think about government funding, startups as research labs, but, but I think that's, I think that's a really compelling, you know, direction, from a policy person. w what do you think some of the biggest challenges are. I'm trying to think of who, who pointed this out for me? I think it was Nathan Coons, who, I don't know if you've met Nathan, but he, He started a company called Kymeta, out of intellectual ventures, which interestingly enough, if you argue, there are not enough modalities around how to do applied research in the world or in this country, you know, intellectual ventures is one of those strange modalities and experiments. but I think he's the one who pointed out to me initially. what has all this stuck in my head as the biggest challenge, which is. When you fund research, you know, as you know, science technology can be easily used irresponsibly, in research funding, let's put it this way. R and D funding could be used irresponsibly either because you're going to go develop an evil technology, or because you're going to go squander the money by like, you know, buying yourself a Ferrari on the side. Right. Yeah. When the governor buying expensive equipment, when it's not even when it's not necessary. Right. Like, I think that's the most insidious one where it's like, not even clearly fraud, but just like, do you really need like a million dollar fem, right. yes. and I think Nate, when Nathan pointed out, you know, when government funds things, you know, if the government sends a check to Virginia tech to do research. there are a lot of guardrails and bounds, that would make it very hard for that money to be spent in a really irresponsible way. or to, for that project to be ethically misled. It happens. Yeah. you know, one of the benefits of startups is there they're much less tightly bound and they have a lot more dynamicism in terms of how they get led. The incentives are different, but it also means you now have less control mechanisms. And that's one, that's kind of stuck with me as, as a challenge, right? not that it's not, yeah, I think about it as like, it's one that's worth thinking about how to manage or you think about it as like, well, you know, there's a risk reward to everything you do. one of the interesting things, I don't know if we, you and I have talked about it. One of the interesting things I've found is that when we think about science, whether it's. Frankly, whether it's government, any of the actors who fund science and engineering and research, you're willing to take insane amounts of technical risk and scientific risk. there's very little willingness to take kind of institutional risk, or, or modality risk. you know, I, I, I had an interaction with, you know, a large private foundation that funds a lot of research. and I, you know, basically noticed most, if not all of their programs, you need to be, you need to be a large university to apply. and when I sort of asked them about like, well, why is that? You've got now a lot of interesting research that could even the applied stuff, even in their applied programs. And part of it is like, well, you know, no one ever lost their job funding. You know, stamp a Stanford professor or Stanford to do research. Whereas like, I don't know, like God forbid I accidentally fund Theranose to do research, that that's, you know, that's death. So that's another one that we got to figure out how to get around. I call that asymmetric career risk where nobody nobody ever gets fired for, Funding the safe thing, right? Like the, the sort of like mean results. But when we're talking, like the things that we're talking about are we're, we're counting on the outlier results. And the problem with outlier results is that they can be outliers on the good side, or they can be outliers on the bad side. And so if you. Fund a outlier result on the good side, then, then you're the hero. Yes. But then if you fund an outlier on the bad side, then you get fired. And so the sort of like expected career value for, for a funder, if the government or large, large. Yeah, exactly. And it's like ed, unlike a VC who gets to participate in the outside's upside of a positive outlier, Someone in the government or a, another large funding organization, like sure. They'll, they'll like, people be like, yeah, you funded it. But then they won't get that much, participation in the upside if it, if it really pays off. And so, so that's. What? Yeah, but I think the sweats really well thing, but let's think about like, you know, and again, all day long, that makes sense. If you look at it through the downside risks, but let's think about all the upside opportunity that we're giving up. And I'll give you the example here, which is Saul and other lab, you know, like I was a good friend. I like, I think he's one of the most brilliant people on the planet in science and technology and engineering. You could do good. other lab. You know, the amount of upstream swimming, Saul has had to do for other labs to exist. And the idea that like, you know, you have to be a one in 1,000,000,001 in a hundred million type of person to be able to end up doing something like other lab, which is essentially a different modality for doing R D you know, in a very different way than activate. It sits somewhere between a startup and a research lab. and you know, I think the question we need to be asking ourselves is like, you know, how do we allow? Not just like, how, how do we make it possible so that not just Saul could go run another lab. Right? But that the hundred or thousand top scientists and engineers who have the same motivations assault, Could think about that as a career path for themselves and something successful to do, you know, salt takes a lot of risks. Other, you know, like other lab is in some ways an insane proposition, and yet it allows them to do the work that he does. And it's like, frankly, it's, it's gotta be, you know, one of the most productive research labs in terms of applied research in the world on a per dollar basis. So, so, so, so big that I would propose. Which is like, this is going to be like a deeply unsatisfying thing, but I'd love to get your take on it is that the missing ingredient is trust. And I realize that sounds very sort of like Woohoo, but I mean, it, in a very, like if you look at, if you just sort of like, look at history and you look at the people who do these crazy things, like what ends up happening is like, it comes down to like one person trust another person they're like, look. I trust you to go spend this money responsibly. And then they sort of like take the guard rails off. And, I was, I was talking to Donald Raven the other week, and he ran, this, this program called venture research for BP in the eighties where they funded. Crazy scientific research. So it's like less on the applied side, but more on the, like, like, like literally scientific research that couldn't get funded. And the thing that struck me was that he spent sometimes up to a year getting to know the scientist who was applying for funding. And so, and I think that what happened there is eventually it got to the point where I just trusted them as a person. And so I was wondering like, well, think about, think about Bob Taylor at DARPA ARPA. Right. Like, you know, his whole mode was, let me find the smartest people, let me spend enough time with them where I can understand which of them, you know, does the best job of calling bullshit on the rest of them, you know? And then let me go give them money. Yeah. And yeah. Right. I think that's, I think, I think you're, You know, I think one of the, one of the challenges with the, with the trust and with some of those modes is, you know, I think right now, one of the really important questions in science and research is, you know, how do you think more inclusively? and how do you make sure that you're not. Just super, you know, reinforcing biases in terms of what it means to be good and excellent, that, you know, like that's, that's one of the things that you, you really need to then struggle with, which is, you know, trust is a very efficient mode. but, you know, people build trust quickly based on their biases. So. I just point that out because it's worth, you know, absolutely being part of, part of it, thinking it's like something that's sort of like really grappling with hard. Yeah. now that said, yeah, I mean, I don't, I don't think that prevents you from. You know, th the two things that I think for us is special about activate one is, we're, we're, we're supporting people outside of the normal incentive structures. Right. and two is we, we fund people, who have great ideas and who have the right motivations, you know, but the whole reason back to the superposition, like the whole reason we exist. Is to give someone a chance to go through that first 18 months where they realize all their assumptions are wrong. So we don't pick them based on our, their assumptions. Right. We pick them based on other attributes, and. You know, I'd say in the last five years, we're learning a lot about how improve processes to do that with less bias. and you know, one thing we can't control is unfortunately, one of the limitations of an entrepreneurial though, is you're dependent on. You know, you're not that you're to be successful at gaining resources to support your project. You're not dependent on a really clear pipeline, you know, within your university or whatever else. You're dependent on pulling resources from a bunch of parts of the world and the ecosystem, and those places all have biases. So yeah. You know, if I think of our women fellows, our fellows of color, you know, I would say if. You know, blind tests, their strength is individuals and ideas at the beginning of the fellowship. And how much progress do they make in two years? No question. There's a deficit there. and you know, I think the work we need to do is we need to do a better job at, you know, Not being biased and picking those people and instead, right. Because you've worried they're going to fail or whatever it is. Right. But instead, like we need to be working really aggressively to make sure that we counter all the other biases. I feel like it's starting to happen. Yeah. and, and sort of, so I got on the, on the note of the sort of, the 18 months of the fellowship, do you feel like. And this is, this would be, it's very hard to do counterfactual. So it's just based on your feeling, like, do you feel like on the margin, like that is sort of the correct length and amount and the amount of money that you give them? Or like what, what, what is, what is the marginal value of say keeping people in that superposition longer or, giving them more resources while they're in it? Yeah, that's a great question. it's super tricky. when we sort of penciled out the model, that's now, you know, activate and synchrotron road, on a napkin, There was a question of like, all right, well, as you know, my initial model for this was very different. and the model we have was really bound by some of the constraints in terms of how much funding we have. And so we looked at the amount of funding we had and we said, Oh, we could probably support people for two years. And I walked around and talked to folks and. Well, it was interesting is anyone I talked to who was on the entrepreneurial kind of VC side of the spectrum was like two years way too cushy. Like that's ridiculous. You're just going to get people into a really relaxed state. The anyone I talked to on the more science, academic research side that realized like the only way you're going to get funding for this is through a grant or something, you know, like. Funding cycles happen on the order of years. Yeah, they were all like, so, so the entrepreneurs said like, Oh, you should make it one year. The academics all said, like, it has to be at least three years. and so we landed on two. the I've actually found it to be pretty appropriate. we do is really unique in the sense that we believe that there's value in. The science and engineering expert inventor actually understanding the connection point to how what they're doing could be valuable. Yeah. Right. Absolutely. And so what that means, because they can then be a mobile, the dimensional player, and they can start to connect the dots and innovative ways that they wouldn't otherwise in the applied research perspective. You know, the other mode is you take the inventor scientist and you just hybridize. You pair them with someone who, is thinking more about the practical market and you find a way to make that work. But at least for us, there's this sense of like, we can be creating these rare breed of like, You know, super, super scientists who are thinking applied and are still cutting edge experts. There are many people who have that capacity, but if you create one and we've seen this kind of time and time, again, like those people can be really powerful drivers. Okay. So for us, a big part of the two years is we found that. There's so much nuance in debt. Like the things that we've been talking about here to really understand, like, how did the capital markets work w w VCs fund things a certain way. how does manufacturing work? How do you think about techno economics? Like, Oh, wait a sec. Yeah, just like that, that mental transition. It takes time. You know, what we find is we tell people things in the two year fellowship, and every year we bring in a new group in the beginning of the fellowship and basically the way the fellowship works is there are a lot of ways it works, but one way is every week we get the cohort together and we're exposing them to ideas for founders and others, founder stories. Here's how venture capital works, et cetera. And we do that for them in the first year. And then we often are repeating some of that stuff for the new cohort that comes in next year. And the second year fellows will sit in on a session and be like, Oh shit. Like you told me all this stuff before, but I didn't, I just wasn't even a place where I could even understand where to which bucket to put that into my brain. But like, now that I've been now that I've been hit with this stuff so many times, like I'm starting to understand it. so that's one and then the other is. You know, I wish we were a program that could find the talent that we have. And then once they're in the program, if they're doing well, six months in, I give them a two or $5 million grant to keep working on it, but we don't have that luxury. I don't control the purse strings. So our fellows will, all we're giving them is sort of the institutional, you know, Umbrella and the support and the runway. So the other reason that two years ends up being important is given how speculative, what they're working on is, you know, the amount of time it takes to get a grant proposal together into a funding agency, get it funded. So you have cash in the bank to do the work or on the venture side or the corporate side to have an engagement with a corporation, that's going to get you funded or to develop a pitch. That's strong enough that BC's like. Like those things, any of those things happen on a time constant of roughly a year. Yeah. and so the idea that in the first year of our, of our fellowship, you know, fellows are basically shifting their mindset and. Like building the foundation for where that those funding and resources are going to come from. So that in the second year of the fellowship, they're actually able to hit the ground running, in the best cases, you know, in some cases that first year, it doesn't, you know, like what, what they're working on doesn't resonate or they miss the window on the grant, like whatever it is, it seems to work and this is sort of like, something that I. Struggle with, and I, and you know, much more about it than me. this idea of a sort of push versus pull on the people coming to the program. And what I mean by that is, There's there's one school of thought that says that people need to be like intensely, intrinsically motivated. They need to like, be like banging down your door to join the program. And then there's another school of thought that, there are people who like don't even know that they should be banging down your door and that you need to go out there and sort of like forcefully opened their eyes and then they will be amazing. Where do you, where do you sort of fall on that spectrum? When you're thinking about where the best fellows come from, this is a really, this is a really hard, it's a really good question. and there are a few different things that come to mind for me. One is what's, what's the risk of like, what's the risk of a program like ours? You know, one could argue that. Being an entrepreneur is not something you should just fall into. Like you will not succeed as an entrepreneur unless you woke up and said, Oh, like, there is no other thing I could imagine doing then this startup, you know, and it's right. and, and argument that has been made that I think is, is reasonable, which is to say, you know, if you give people a nice path, To start thinking about themselves as an entrepreneur. Like you're basically setting them up for failure because those people probably shouldn't be doing it. Like the Darwinian selection that occurs in terms of what there's, someone actually is willing in the middle of their piece deprogram to say, you know what? I'm just gonna put everything aside. I'm gonna figure out how to go raise venture capital money and find the person who's going to help me do that. Like, that's an important selection because the other people just shouldn't be entrepreneurs. It's one thing that keeps me up at night, which is, you know, what we found is actually quite the opposite. you know, because it's so hard, like it's almost stupid for someone who's got a PhD, in science to take that, right? Like, let's just think about a few pieces of this. Traditional entrepreneurial story in the software space. like what's the, what's the, what's the calculus you're doing here. First of all, like, you might be 20 years old and decided to basically go to do, do this. Right? Meaning you don't have a family, you know, you haven't already, you're not in your mid thirties, right? Like where you have to actually figure out like what your life has looked like. So it's a different calculus already from the get-go then it's like, well, what does it take to go get learning cycles? Okay. Like, I'm going to stop going to class and I'm going to meet up with some friends and I'm going to start prototyping. but like I could argue that I'll probably get some really, I'll probably get some really satisfying learning cycles, like on the order of months. Right. Yeah. So that's number two. and then number three, and by the way, like I'm gonna, I'm gonna find other people to do it with, they're going to be my co-founders. Like, I don't have a lot of like vested interest in these ideas. Like they're brand new, I'm just in the, in the early creative. So if you now contrast that with someone who. Let's just say they've spent the last, you know, five to 10 years becoming a cutting edge expert in material science. they've developed an idea that they've been working on as a research program for probably five years. That is now the basis of something that they think could be valuable. Okay. So now what's their calculus. okay. Let's see. I want to just go be an entrepreneur, first of all. I'm later in life, we already covered that. Yeah. so my, my analysis is different. And the other people I need to do this with me are probably all still later along life, they're more expensive. They have other constraints. So that makes it harder. Second of all, if I decide to step away, I stopped going to my grad school classes and do this. well, how am I going to start doing it? Like, where am I getting my learning cycles to do it? I need to raise enough money to get a. Venture capitalists to fund me. Then I got to go negotiate with Ember on an order of glove boxes and wait the six months for the like potentially it's like a year of my life before I'm actually in a startup. Yeah. Which is a big deal and a big opportunity cost. and then, you know, and then thirdly, like I have a watch a different amount of vested interest in what are like, I've already spent five years on this idea. so. The thought that we should imagine that people are just going to jump into these things at the same rates or paces, as in other areas of entrepreneurship, I think is sort of ridiculous. And frankly, even if I think about, so you say like, Oh, you're giving them a fellowship. That's really cushy. Like, I look at it like the people who are cutting into our fellowship are people who could get professor jobs at any university in the country. A lot of them. Like, so for me, it's not like cushy, like they're basically deciding to do something that on the face of it is totally stupid, which is like walk away from that path and like go into this fellowship where like, who knows what's next. and my read is like, if we have, if we have amazing individuals who w who are willing to take that step, like. The least we could do is provide that about a cushion. I've I've totally forgotten the question here. I think, I think we we're, we're really attacking it, which is this idea of like, do the best. Do you need to. Filter people by the ones that are willing to bang down your door or do you need to go out and find the best people and open their eyes to what they should be doing? yeah, from our experience, the ones that bang down our door are in fact, the most entrepreneurial of our fellows and they are the ones that make the most progress, and, and have sort of the highest likelihood to succeed. what's interesting for me is the other ones, the folks who come into our program, who didn't bang down our door, who basically looked at it and said like, yeah, I've always wondered. You know, maybe I don't know, I want to be a professor. and the example that I would give is Raymond White at camp who came out of Bob Grubbs, his lab, Nobel Laureate at Caltech. You know, Raymond, it wasn't until after he got into our first cohort where he basically said, you know what, this is kind of a hedge for me. I figured because you're connected to the national lab. I'll keep publishing. And like, I'll kind of probe this. but I can, I can still go be a professor. And what we found in that case was like, what he found in that case was he had no idea what the other. World would look like, and he found himself like so excited and motivated by, you know, by a more entrepreneurial path. and my take is like, okay, you know, Ray the way I talk about this, you know, Ray was working on, he had stumbled in a way in his PhD to take olefin metathesis chemistry. We can make, which can make some of the strongest polymers in the world. And most corrosion resistant toughest. He found a way to make those polymers light, the synthesis light activated so that you could turn that into a 3d printing technique. and I think he would agree, had he not come and done the fellowship. Like those ideas would still be in the world of publications, you know, instead, you know, he's proven those as 3d, you know, he's selling products as 3d printed resins in the world. And more importantly for me, like Raven would have been a professor somewhere, still with kind of not having been exposed to this other mindset. And now I think the fact that he still has that, you know, he could still go back and be a professor. I think about folks like, You know, like a number of actually folks from the great industrial, you know, from, from bell labs or IBM research that are now in universities, right? Like they, they can pop back if they want to, but they

We are always exposed to negativity in our lives, it’s impossible to avoid. As of this recording at the end of 2020 I’m going to claim we are at an all time high. The covid pandemic, racial tensions, and presidential campaign offered volatile topics, and just about everyone in the country, if not the planet, is citing more anxiety, uncertainty, confusion and fear. Everyday we have more people spending more time on screens that pump out media more than ever, and as media is paid to get our attention, they know what gets it most is...negativity. Randy and I talked over what he is seeing with patients and how very real this issue is, and how we can minimize it...but in truth the bigger issue is combating it. Interestingly what we landed on was seeking ways to lift ourselves emotionally. I think you’ll find some tangible actions you can take from this show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There has long been a movement to streamline the issues surrounding taxation and telecommuting. Interestingly, the onset of the coronavirus has both made clarity on this issue more important and made it tougher to pursue due to the residual issues that need addressing. To discuss how COVID-19 shining a spotlight on Pennsylvania’s taxation of telecommuters and freelancers, we met with Jason Skrinak, founder of Pivot Strategic Consulting LLC in Harrisburg, Pa. To read the full transcript click here. 

If the Hanukah candles burned out within a half-hour after they were lit, they do not need to be relit, but the remaining oil is considered hallowed, as it had been designated for this Misva. As such, it may not be discarded, and it may not be used for personal benefit. The best option in such a case is simply to use the leftover oil the following night. However, if this happens on the last night of Hanukah, this is, quite obviously, not an option. And, as the Mishna Berura (Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan of Radin, 1839-1933) writes, the oil should not be kept until the following year, because it is likely that in the interim one will end up using this oil for personal benefit. Therefore, the leftover oil in such a case should be burned. If the Hanukah candles were extinguished after a half-hour – the minimum-required time that the candles must burn – then in principle, this oil is not sacred, and may be used or discarded, since it was extra, and was not needed for the Misva. However, the Mishna Berura cites those who maintain that unless one made a stipulation to this effect, it is assumed that his intention was to designate all the oil poured into the lamps for the Misva, and so even if the candles burned for more than a half-hour, the leftover oil is forbidden for use. Therefore, it is recommended when pouring oi into the lamps to stipulate that one has intention to designate for the Misa only the oil that is needed to sustain the flames for the required duration of a half-hour. Hacham Ovadia Yosef goes even further, advising one to stipulate that only the oil that will actually burn should be endowed with sanctity. This way, regardless of when the candles extinguish, the leftover oil has no sanctity and is entirely permissible for use.Another option is to add regular oil to the leftover Hanukah oil until the Hanukah oil constitutes one-sixtieth or less of the entire mixture, such that it becomes Halachically nullified. Once the forbidden oil comprises one-sixtieth or less of the mixture, the mixture is permissible for use. Normally, the rule of "En Mebatlin Issur Le’chatehila" forbids knowingly combining a forbidden substance with a majority permissible substance in order to render it Halachically nullified. However, the Shulhan Aruch (Yoreh De’a 99) writes that this rule applies only to substances which are forbidden on the level of Torah law, not to those which are forbidden Mi’de’rabbanan – by force of Rabbinic enactment. The Poskim therefore conclude that since the prohibition against deriving personal benefit from the oil of Hanukah candles applies only Mi’de’rabbanan, one may combine it with a large amount of permissible oil in order to avoid this prohibition. Interestingly, in discussing the laws of Hanukah (Orah Haim 677:4), the Shulhan Aruch writes that some authorities forbid mixing the leftover oil with permissible oil to avoid the prohibition. However, the Peri Hadash (Rav Hizkiya Da Silva, 1659-1698) clarifies that the Shulhan Aruch does not actually follow this opinion, as indicated by his explicit ruling in Yoreh De’a where he distinguished between Torah prohibitions and Rabbinic prohibitions, as discussed.As for the oil left over in the bottle that one purchased for Hanukah candle lighting, Hacham Ovadia Yosef ruled that this oil is not considered sacred at all, and may be used for one’s personal benefit. It often happens that a person purchases an entire bottle of oil for Hanukah, but ends up using only half the bottle. In such a case, the remaining oil is entirely permissible. Hacham Ovadia draws proof from the ruling of the Magen Abraham (Rav Abraham Gombiner, 1633-1683) concerning the case of a person who filled the oil cups for the Hanukah candle lighting, but then decided to use different lamps and ended up not using this oil which he had poured into the lamps. The Magen Abraham rules that this oil is permissible for ordinary use, since it was never actually kindled for the Hanukah lighting. If so, Hacham Ovadia reasons, then certainly oil that never left the bottle does not become forbidden, even if the bottle was purchased specifically for lighting the Hanukah candles.The Halachic scholars address the question of why this issue arises in regard to the oil of the Hanukah candles, but not in regard to the Sechach after Sukkot. At the conclusion of Sukkot, the materials used for Sechach have no prohibited status at all, and may be freely used or discarded, as opposed to the leftover oil of the Hanukah lights, which, as discussed, is forbidden if the light is extinguished before a half-hour. The simple answer is that when one places Sechach on his Sukka, his intention, quite obviously, is to designate this material for the Misva only for the duration of Sukkot. After the holiday, therefore, the Sechah is entirely permissible. The Hanukah candles, however, are intended to burn for a half-hour, and the oil is poured with this purpose in mind. As such, if the candles extinguish before a half-hour, the oil remains forbidden for use.It must be emphasized that even in situations where the oil may be discarded or used, the wicks should be burned.Interestingly, the work Ner Siyon writes that burning the leftover oil from the Hanukah candles is a Segula to protect against being murdered throughout the coming year.Summary: Leftover oil in the lamps of the Hanukah Menorah may not be discarded or used for personal benefit, though it may be used for the next night’s lighting. However, one may circumvent this prohibition by stipulating when filling the oil lamps that he designates the oil for the Misva only for the duration of the time that the candles burn. Alternatively, one may mix the oil with an amount of oil sixty times the amount of the forbidden oil, and then the entire mixture is permissible. The oil leftover in the bottle is entirely permissible, even if the bottle was purchased specifically for the sake of the Hanukah candles.

Tunes: Robert Bremner: Stadholders Minuet, Moorish Tunes, Mill Mill O, Willy was a Wanton Wag, and Black Joke. William McGibbon: Mill Mill O, Willie Was a Wanton Wag James Oswald: Burlesque on a Black Joak: Miscellaneous: Clare Dragoons, Braes a Mar Big Thanks To Ryan Kirk for the performance and write up. Head over to the Facebook page to tell him thanks! Thanks to Rob Turner for his Playing of James Oswald’s Burlesque on Black Joke. You can watch his youtube upoload of the tune, along with some stellar background information. https://youtu.be/vHFwsYbvZ-A As I said in the episode, be sure to check out the rest of his music on his Youtube channel: fiauto https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMNv7YozytBYTZHjyMGxO1A Bremner’s Guitar Tutorial settings for, Moorish Tunes, Mill Mill O, Willy was a Wanton Wag, Stadholders Minuet, and Black Joke: http://guitar-repertoire.com/musicalia/bremner-r-instructions-for-the-guitar-pdf/ Oswald: Burlesque on a Black Joak: https://digital.nls.uk/special-collections-of-printed-music/archive/94598288 O’Farrell’s The Black Joke with Variations: https://digital.nls.uk/special-collections-of-printed-music/archive/87780734 McGibbon’s Willy was a Wanton Wag: https://digital.nls.uk/special-collections-of-printed-music/archive/105870384 Clare Dragoons: I just took off The Session https://thesession.org/tunes/777 But you might be entertained by this bizarre “Fennian War Echoes” Pamphlet with the Song: https://digital.library.temple.edu/digital/collection/p15037coll1/id/897 If you haven’t listened to The Dollop Episode about the Fenian Raids, it’s a pretty good laugh: https://allthingscomedy.com/podcasts/106---the-fenian-raids McGibbon’s Mill Mill O: https://digital.nls.uk/special-collections-of-printed-music/archive/105869955 Here Is Ryan's Excellent write up if you'd like to see it as written: English Guitar Notes: Robert Bremner’s Instructions for the Guitar is a short tutor book containing a brief overview of the instrument and a small collection of popular English and Scottish tunes. The instrument described within is not what most people today would picture when they hear guitar. Instead of the six stringed Romantic or Spanish guitar - the direct ancestor to today’s classical and steel stringed instruments - the instrument described is what is now known as an English or Scottish guitar. This instrument had six courses of strings, but was a smaller teardrop shaped instrument strung with metal wire and tuned in open tunings. It is the ancestor to and most closely resembles the modern cittern or German waldzither. With its early wire strings and open tunings it was less suited to the more harmonically complex and delicate music played on the gut strung Spanish instrument. Nevertheless, it enjoyed widespread use as an instrument for popular and folk music. The ‘Instructions’ portion of the text is relatively brief. It explains the tuning of the instrument (an open C major chord) and a few rudimentary techniques. Interestingly it describes a simple strumming technique and also suggests an alternating plucking with the thumb and forefinger, a common technique on the lute and other early stringed instruments now known as ‘thumb under’ that approximates the effect of a plectrum. The musical selections themselves are mostly presented in simple settings. The music is provided in staff notation, rather than the tablature more commonly used for stringed instruments of the era. All of the music is transposed to C to fit the open chord tuning of the instrument. The texture is simple, mostly simple monophonic melody line with the odd open string drone or strummed open string chord for emphasis, when harmonically appropriate. In all but a few instances the music only calls on the player to strike notes on immediately adjacent strings, most often in melodic parallel thirds or a melody over an open drone string. There is none of the counterpoint, moving basslines, or harmonic figuration that is typical of Baroque or Romantic guitar repertoire. These factors along with the popular tunes suggests to me that the music was intended for an amateur audience and intended to be strummed as much as plucked. One could view the tutor as analogous to modern commercial ukulele books full of popular and folk tunes in simple arrangements. The various Moorish tunes are interesting and of particular note. They are all extremely short and simple with a strong pastoral sound of open ringing intervals evocative of hunting horns and reveilles, perhaps intended to conjure the image of the trumpets popularly associated with the military bands of the Ottoman Empire. In light of the above notes on the instrument itself, I have played the selected tunes on a modern steel string acoustic guitar, with a mix of pick and thumb and forefinger as appropriate. Ryan Kirk, Nova Scotia Canada (thanks again Ryan!) Please take advantage of the Tune Collection tab: https://www.wetootwaag.com/tunesources Also Please take a minute to leave a review of the podcast! Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wetootwaags-bagpipe-and-history-podcast/id129776677 Listen on Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wetootwaags-bagpipe-and-history-podcast/id129776677 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QxzqrSm0pu6v8y8pLsv5j?si=QLiG0L1pT1eu7B5_FDmgGA

Dr. John Norcross is Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of Scranton and author of the acclaimed self-help book Changeology. He has authored over 400 publications and written many books on the field of psychotherapy, including the APA Handbook of Clinical Psychology and the Systems of Psychotherapy which currently in its 9th edition. Dr. Norcross has received many awards, including Pennsylvania Professor of the Year from the Carnegie Foundation, the Distinguished Contributions to Education & Training Award from APA, Fellow status in multiple associations, and election to National Academies of Practice. Individual Therapy refers to psychotherapy with an individual client. Often, a person enters individual therapy with the goal of reducing psychiatric symptoms and improving functioning. Additionally, they may also want to address situational stressors, family relations, life span issues or substance use disorders. It is important to keep in mind that engaging in individual therapy may bring to the surface painful emotions, traumatic memories, and latent parts of oneself. However, with a skilled and attuned therapist, individual therapy has the potential to help overcome obstacles to wellbeing, increase positive feelings, learn new skills for coping with difficult situations, improve decision making, and help reach goals of symptom reduction and improved functioning. Interestingly, some individuals go to therapy simply for continued self-growth, even after their acute symptoms have subsided. Dr. John Norcross on Twitter: @JohnCNorcross Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is not a substitute for getting help from a mental health professional.

In this episode, you’ll also hear:Feedback taken from a survey about what people look for when choosing a book to buy, in the buyers’ own wordsDifferent strategies to catch your readers’ attention, and how your book’s cover reflects on you as a professionalOther “small” factors that also affect people’s impression of your bookWhat you need to understand about your target audience in order to catch – and keep -- their attention The biggest mistake that many aspiring authors make – and how to avoid falling into the trap BIO:My name is Tamara Jackson but my clients affectionately call me "Coach Tam." I am an author, speaker, transformation coach, and 11-year, 100 lb. weight loss success story. I am also the CEO of a mission-oriented gym and wellness center in the Charlotte, NC area called 265 Point Total Fitness.Interestingly enough, much of the success that God has allowed me to enjoy is founded upon a book that I wrote in 2013, 265 Point. In the book, I share how I transformed from being a 265 lb. junk food addict to a 155 lb. fitness fanatic appearing on the demonstration floor of the Dr. Oz Television show. It's part biography, part self-help. I wanted to do my part to end the trend of obesity in America and help others lose weight and keep it off.I would love to say that I answered the call to write immediately. I didn't. It took me YEARS to put pen to paper and publish my book.Now, as an aspiring author coach my mission is to ensure that others don't repeat my mistake. This podcast, Publishing Secrets, is designed to further that mission. I pray that it blesses you! GET CONNECTED:Website: http://www.265point.comPurchase 265 Point: https://www.bookclout.com/book/265Point   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TamaraJacksonTransformationExpert/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitnesstamara265/   

Pod Save America's Jon Favreau is joining the cast of Elf! No it's not Elf 2 starring Jon, Jon and Tommy, but it's a political fundraiser.Will Ferrell says, "“I'm excited to bring Buddy back to the small screen to benefit the critical Senate runoff elections in Georgia. We need new leadership in the U.S. Senate, and I'm hoping that Buddy and the rest of the Elf cast, can play a small role in delivering that change.” But can they overcome the Andy Richter jinx? Everything that dude touches get canceled. Conan refuses to see it! Interestingly, and not mentioned in the actual podcast, Hollywood's Jon Favreau, the director guy, directed Elf in the first place, but he's not part of that....but the Pod Save America guy is. Johnny Mac probably should have put this together before recording the entire podcast but hey it's in the show notes at least.Nicholas Cage will host The History of Swear Words. Joel Kim Booster, DeRay Davis, Open Mike Eagle, Nikki Glaser, Patti Harrison, London Hughes, Jim Jeffries, Zainab Johnson, Nick Offerman, Sarah Silverman, Baron Vaughn, and Isiah Whitlock Jr all take part in this.Kevin Hart will play...wait for it....a comedian, opposite Wesley Snipes in a Netflix series called True Story.Doug Benson will host some sort of comedy thing on December 26th. There aren't really any details other than an "epic smoke sesh" and it starts at 4:20 because you know, pot, 4:20, snicker snicker like Beavis and Butthead.Chris Pratt will star in a show about Karate and a kid that is not Karate Kid.Brian Regan has tested positive for Covid-19.Follow on Spotify, and I'm @dcnpod on twitter and Facebook.com/dailycomedy news. No Tik-Tok yet but I am hoping Sarah Cooper starts one about me.

Thursday, December 10th 8:00PM Eastern/ 5:00PM Pacific The Context of White Supremacy hosts the 3rd study session on Jeffrey Toobin's The Run of His Life: The People v. O.J. Simpson. This 1996 New York Times bestseller enjoyed two different waves of success. It was critically acclaimed during the initial mid-90's publication, and it found re-newed success following the wildly successful 2016 FX miniseries - which is based on Toobin's work. Toobin enjoyed three glorious decades of journalism, spawned from his coverage of the Simpson trial. He wrote beloved books on the Supreme Court and authored a scathing indictment of President Donald J. Trump. Things were triumphant until the year of the rona. While participating in a live Zoom conference with prominent White journalists, Toobin exposed his penis and began masturbating. He was initially suspended by the New Yorker. After a weeks of investigation, Toobin was terminated. We'll keep this in mind while reading his account of the most well documented, most watched court trial of all time. During last week's session we learned about Simpson's youth and rise to gridiron stardom at the University of Southern California and in the National Football League. Toobin explains how The Juice married his first wife, Marguerite Whitley, before committing adultery with an 18-year-old Nicole. Toobin details years of alleged domestic abuse - including one 1989 incident where Simpson sped away from officers as oppose to being arrested for spousal abuse. Interestingly, the only reason Simpson was prosecuted for this episode is because of a letter written by detective Mark Fuhrman. While documenting the days in 1994 leading to Simpson being charged with double murder, Toobin alleges that the L.A. Sentinel's Danny Schatzman, lead journalist of the SoCal black newspaper, wrote reports that dictated how black people would think and speak about the Simpson case for the next year. Inexplicably, Toobin makes this claim while acknowledging th

The Poskim bring down that on Friday of Hanukah, it is preferable to pray Minha Gedolah-early afternoon Minha, before lighting the candles. Different reasons are given for this practice. First, that corresponds to the sequence of service in the Bet HaMikdash-first the Korban Tamid Shel Ben HaArbayim-the afternoon offering was brought, and then the Kohen would light the Menorah. So too, Minha, which corresponds to the afternoon offering, should be prayed before lighting candles, as is the practice the rest of the week. Moreover, the Peri Megadim (R. Yosef Ben Meir Teomim, 1727-1792, Poland-Germany) says that if one would pray Minha after lighting the Hanukah candles for Friday Night/Shabbat, it would create a "Tarteh D’satreh"-an internal contradiction. How can one light the candles for the next day-Shabbat- and then go ahead and pray the weekday Minha, which is the prayer of the previous day-Friday?Interestingly, the Mishna Berura, in his Sha’are Sion (679:7), comments that it is only a contradiction if one lights early, at Plag HaMinha, because he is showing that he accepts Plag HaMinha as the start of the next day. However, if he lights ten or fifteen minutes before sunset, that does not indicate that he has already begun the next day. He is only lighting then because he has no choice, as he cannot light candles after Shabbat begins. The Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) in Parashat Vayeshev says that praying Minha on Friday of Hanukah after lighting Hanukah candles is "Minhag Borim"-the practice of the ignorant. Hacham Bension understands this to refer to a case in which he lit at Plag and then prayed, which is a "Tarteh D’satreh." However, if he would light candles close to sunset, there is no problem praying Minha afterwards. Even so, it is still preferable to pray Minha early because of the first reason. SUMMARYIt is preferable to pray Minha early on Friday of Hanukah, before lighting candles. If one intends to pray Minha later, he should light Hanukah candles 18 minutes before sunset.

On this episode of Quick News Daily, I go over President-elect Biden's latest nominees and appointees, including his surprising (to me) pick of retired Gen. Lloyd Austin for Defense Secretary, as well as the great news that Dr. Fauci will be his COVID expert. Also, we talk about Chris Krebs' lawsuit, a follow up to the raid on Rebekah Jones' home, and that useless executive order from Trump.----more----Have any thoughts on possible YouTube/Facebook/Instagram live, interactive videos (that would later become podcasts)? Let me know on social media (Facebook | Instagram | Twitter), or by emailing quicknewsdaily@gmail.com.Find how to listen on your favorite podcast platform: www.rebrand.ly/QuickNewsTranscript:BIDEN NOMINEESFlipping over to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which wackjob Dr. Ben Carson is currently leading, Biden has selected Rep. Marcia Fudge as his nominee. She has been lobbying to be the first Black female Agriculture Secretary, but the rumor is that Biden is planning on choosing former Obama agriculture secretary Tom Vilsack, so here she is. This is kind of interesting because as early as last month, Fudge had an interview with POLITICO where she said “As this country becomes more and more diverse, we're going to have to stop looking at only certain agencies as those that people like me fit in. You know, it's always ‘we want to put the Black person in Labor or HUD.’” I’m not exactly sure what changed in that time period, but I suppose you never know how you’re going to react until you get the call. She will have an important job since a lot of folks are going to be facing eviction and back-rent bills, as well as the existing homelessness problems. She will also be reinstating the rule from the Obama era that aims to help fair housing. That rule required local governments to track patterns of segregation with a checklist of 92 questions in order to gain access to federal housing funds. Lastly, she’ll be stopping a Ben Carson rule that required plaintiffs to meet a higher threshold to prove unintentional discrimination, known as disparate impact, and gave defendants more leeway to rebut the claims.Honestly, the one downside to Marcia Fudge being nominated here: it’s not Cory Booker! Remember how Trump was campaigning at the end and kept telling “suburban women” that big, scary Cory Booker was going to come in and destroy their neighborhoods? What a shame. BIDEN COVID PLAN AND NOMINEESSticking with Biden just a bit more, he also unveiled a three-point plan to fight the coronavirus in his first 100 days in office. Point one is to get at least 100 million Americans vaccinated in his initial 100 days, point two is his pledge to sign a face mask mandate on his first day in office, and point three is getting kids back to school safely. I was actually surprised about the mask mandate because I thought he said he wasn’t going to do that, but actually it seems like it’s a little more targeted and specific than just saying everyone has to wear one. His mandate would require masks in places like federal buildings and on planes, trains and buses for interstate travel. Biden also said that he would work with governors and mayors to pass masking mandates in communities across the country.In terms of getting kids back to school, which helps kids’ learning as well as opening up the economy since parents don’t have to be home with them, Biden says Congress will need to provide the necessary funding to protect students, educators and staff.This plan came on the same day that he announced a lot of his nominees for key public health positions. He announced that his chief medical adviser on the pandemic will be Dr. Fauci. Xavier Becerra, California's current attorney general, will be his nominee for secretary of Health and Human Services (I’m sure Kamala Harris had some say in that, seeing as that was her old position). Dr. Vivek Murthy, who was US surgeon general for President Obama, will be his nominee for surgeon general.Biden transition co-chair and former Obama administration official Jeff Zients will serve as coordinator of the Covid-19 response and counselor to the President. Natalie Quillian, who is also a former Obama person, will be the deputy coordinator of the COVID response. This list goes on: Dr. Rochelle Walensky will be his CDC Director (she’s currently Chief of Infectious Diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital). And, finally, Dr. Marcella Nunez-Smith will serve as the chairwoman of Biden’s COVID Equity Task Force (she’s currently serving as a co-chair of Biden’s transition team). Guys, I don’t know if I like this: there are waaaay too many qualified people on this list. I thought we were supposed to have people who were loyal to our president, not these experts! I’m just kidding, this is a super refreshing list of appointees and nominees. I think I’m most happy for Dr. Fauci for getting that new title, and hopefully being treated as the expert he is and with appreciation by the President of the United States. The one thing I will say for all my history nerds out there, is that with all of these former Obama people coming back in, it sort of feels like when John Adams took over for George Washington. Since nobody knew how to transfer power because no leader had given up power until George Washington, and because Adams was a short, uncharismatic guy (there we go again with the bias against us short people), Adams wanted to make sure he’d win and not spook any of the important people who would endorse him. As a result, he ended up keeping pretty much all of George Washington’s cabinet. That would end up being a bad move for him because Alexander Hamilton had resigned towards the end of Washington’s presidency, but in many ways, he was more of George Washington’s vice president than Adams, meaning that all of the cabinet was basically taking orders from him and ignoring Adams. I don’t think that’s going to happen to Joe by any means, but it seems a bit odd to be bringing so much of the band back together. At the same time, if you know people have done a good job in the past and that they’re qualified, why not? KREBS LAWSUITI mentioned Chris Krebs in the beginning, so here he is. Yesterday, Krebs filed a lawsuit against the Trump campaign, attorney Joseph diGenova and the cable channel Newsmax. He’s seeking an injunction ordering Newsmax to remove the diGenova interview from its website, as well as monetary damages, for defamation. He said diGenova defamed him in that interview by saying that Krebs "should be drawn and quartered" or "shot at dawn" because he said the election was the most secure in our history. Krebs claims that he’s received death threats after this interview. Let’s just clearly put in perspective why this is such a big deal: diGenova is a lawyer for the President of the United States. More accurately, he’s a lawyer for his re-election campaign, but nonetheless, it is insane that someone that close to the president is saying people should be shot or drawn and quartered. This is why I said Biden’s choices so far for nominees and appointees have been so refreshing. I wish the best to Chris Krebs. FLORIDAAnother follow up story is a callback to yesterday when we talked about Rebekah Jones and that raid on her house. According to the Tampa Bay Times, “Ron Filipkowski, a lifelong Republican who was appointed to the 12th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission by DeSantis, resigned Tuesday morning after reviewing the search warrant affidavit the state used to seize computers and phones from Rebekah Jones.”He said that he resigned from this commission to bring attention to the way DeSantis has handled “public access to truthful data” and the raiding of a data analyst’s home. Filipkowski is no joke: he’s a former Marine, as well as a former state and federal prosecutor. In his resignation letter, he said “recent events regarding public access to truthful data on the pandemic, and the specific treatment of Rebekah Jones has made the issue a legal one rather than just medical. I no longer wish to serve the current government of Florida in any capacity.” Also, according to a friend of his, he privately said he was alarmed by the raid, telling the friend “What’s the crime? The crime is hacking into an email server to tell people to tell the truth? That’s not a horrible crime, if it’s a crime at all.” He compared her situation to the legal doctrine called necessity, which allows someone to break the law to prevent a more serious harm.Interestingly enough, Filipkowski also helped both the Lincoln Project and Center for American Progress Action Fund during the presidential campaign. Thank you, Ron Filipkowski. EXECUTIVE ORDERI just want to briefly rant about that executive order that Trump signed yesterday, because it’s total BS. Also, I just love that new transition I made, and I want to use every opportunity I can to play it. That executive order that Trump signed is called something super-MAGA like “The America First Vaccine Priority” or something like that. I’m not exaggerating, I swear it had “America First” in there somewhere. He signed it because it helps Fox News pretend he’s actually doing something, but the bill just prioritizes the shipment of vaccines to the U.S. before it can go to other countries. First of all, that doesn’t necessarily seem equitable or fair if we passed on a deal, no matter how much I’d rather have those vaccines. Second, you can’t just sign a piece of paper and we magically get more vaccines. The company had to agree to a deal, and unless you’re embracing socialism and seizing the means of production, this doesn’t mean anything! Also, last time I checked, an insane amount of insane Americans are scared out of their minds when they even have to read the word socialism. This executive order is meaningless, and not worth the paper it’s printed on. It might as well have been one of those blank pieces of paper he signed his name on when he was at Walter Reed, pretending like he was a workaholic. Also, I almost forgot. The U.S. Supreme Court decided not to hear one of Trump’s election fraud lawsuits that started in Pennsylvania. I guess I wasn’t too surprised because I don’t think John Roberts or Gorsuch or even Kavanaugh wanted to touch this because they know it’s not even a real argument. At the same time, I suppose you can’t ever underestimate how low these Republicans are willing to go. Either way, the cable news channels were freaking out about it. I swear I thought that Wolf Blitzer was going to have a heart attack the way he was talking about it. They just kept playing that breaking news sound effect and graphic. Again, maybe this is just a me thing, but I wish they would have just chilled out a bit. ENDOkay everyone, that’s all I got for ya. Once more: I decided I’ll be taking tomorrow off, but expect a new episode on Friday. On these days where I’m more busy and don’t necessarily have a ton of time to write a script and everything, I’m toying of doing Instagram/Facebook live chats where I’ll just go over news and articles in real-time, and then you guys would get to ask questions or suggest what news you want to go over. Then I’d post that as a podcast as well, eventually. The only downside is that it clearly wouldn’t be as organized as this, but maybe it would still help you get the news and help me save some time. So, let me know if you have strong feelings one way or the other about that. You can reach out on any social media platform; I’m on those as @QuickNewsDaily, or you can email me directly at quicknewsdaily@gmail.com. SOURCESGOP lawyer resigns over treatment of Florida data analystFormer Cybersecurity Chief Sues Trump Campaign and Others, Charging DefamationBiden names retired Gen. Lloyd Austin as secretary of defense nomineeBiden to tap Marcia Fudge to lead housing agencyBiden details plan to combat coronavirus pandemic in first 100 days     

Have you ever been in a room where there are 10 positive people and 1 negative person and it seems like the 10 just fall down to the 1 negative? Find out why here.Dawna shared with us on our LIFT Your Story Podcast a very interesting topic about thoughts and the energy they exude. Dawna is an author and Mind Whisperer. She explains her story of transition from finance to mind healing, and now helps people Internationally.Interestingly her methods are such that we haven't before. "What would you feel like if you don't...." You need to listen to this to find out the full explanation about this.Dawna has a book coming out in January 2021 called Financial Fit which explores the energy associated with money.You can find out more about Dawna at www.dawnacampbell.com and look out for her book at www.financiallyfitbook.comThank you Dawna. It was a pleasure.More about Dawna:Considered a Mind Whisperer, Dawna combines her past knowledge, wisdom, and experience to assist you in creating and restoring a life of happiness, prosperity, and love. Published in over 90 media outlets, and with over 25 combined years of professional experience, Dawna is completing her book, Become Financially Fit, bringing together the financial world, the energy body, and the souls essence. She travels as a motivational speaker sharing her techniques during interactive workshops and maintains an international private practice. Her personal Heart Centered Healing philosophy is to create a world that is a better place for all to live. www.dawnacampell.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/healingheartincTwitter: https://twitter.com/healingheartincLinkeden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnacampbell/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healingheartinc/You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/dawnacampbell#entrepreneurmind #succeeding #entrepreneurspirit #successminded #inspiration #change #education #lifelessons #buzzsprout #podcast #podcasting #Spotify #GooglePodcast #TuneIn #stitcher #ApplePodcast #iHeartRadio #Pandora #PodcastAddict #Podchaser #Deezer #Listennotes #Overcasat #Pocketcast #Castro and #CastPost #iamthatgal #liftyourstory #liftyourstorypodcast #iamthatgal #thatgalwiththatguy #mindwhispere #DawnaCampbell #energy #universe

In this episode of ASCO eLearning's Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) series, Narjust Duma, MD, moderates a discussion with ASCO CEO, Clifford A. Hudis, MD, FACP, FASCO and Sybil R. Green, JD, RPh, MHA, Director of Strategic Initiatives in ASCO’s Policy and Advocacy Department, on what ASCO is doing as a professional society to address equity as part of its mission.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts, Google Play | Additional resources: elearning.asco.org | Contact Us   Transcript: PRESENTER: The purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. This is not a substitute for medical care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests on this podcast express their own opinions, experience, and conclusions. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity, or therapy should not be construed as an ASCO endorsement. NARJUST DUMA: Welcome, everybody, to the second episode of ASCO's Social Determinants of Health series. My name is Dr. Narjust Duma. I am an assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin and also a thoracic oncologist. Today I'm joined by ASCO's CEO, Dr. Cliff Hudis, and Sybil Green, Director of Strategic Initiatives in the policy and advocacy department for ASCO. This series is a new initiative proposed by ASCO president, Dr. Lori Pierce. It focuses on increasing oncologists' awareness about the social determinants of health through the cancer care and how impacts our patients' outcome, including modifiable risk factors. This series is inspired by Dr. Pierce's presidential team of equity, every day, every patient, everywhere. In this episode, we look at what ASCO is doing as a professional society to improve health equity and cancer care. Welcome, Dr. Hudis. Welcome, Mrs. Green. First I would like to us what is ASCO doing as an organization in the matter of health equity and cancer care? CLIFF HUDIS: So I guess I'll start here. Thank you very much for spending some time with us on this. If you look at ASCO's mission, it is conquering cancer through research, education, and the promotion of the highest quality and equitable cancer care. So the idea of equity and our responsibility to address disparities is really in our organizational DNA. I have to point out something that many people may not realize. But when ASCO was founded in 1964, one of the seven founders was a black woman, Jane C. Wright. Dr. Wright died in February of 2013. But her father was among the first African-American graduates of the Harvard Medical School. His father was also a physician. And he was educated at what became Meharry. So I remind everybody of this as often as I can, to make the point that not only do we have an opportunity to advance equity and to deal with disparities in health care, but it's my perspective as a leader of ASCO that we have a special obligation and responsibility to do all of that. So we can talk more about it. But I'll just introduce maybe the answer by saying there are really two broad themes at work for us at ASCO. One is externally facing. And one is internally facing. The externally-facing work includes a range of projects and output that we can talk about a little more, but for example our position papers describing disparities and then identifying potential steps to take to address and solve them. But it also includes support for targeted research that is meant to narrow those gaps. It includes our educational efforts, both for our members and for legislators, advocacy for policy, and so on. And then on the internal side-- and here I'll ask Sybil to talk a little bit-- I think we've recently recognized our opportunity, and again responsibility, to think about the workplace itself and to think about our staff and to think about the activities and actions we can take and the roles we can model to create a better world. So I know I've been high level in my initial answer here. But the two domains again are external and internal. And then we can talk about some of the specific projects as we go on. NARJUST DUMA: Mrs. Green, I think it's very important to share about these internal aspects of ASCO because many of us are now aware as members, we see the surface. But ASCO is a large organization with many staff and members. So it would be great that you can share that with us. SYBIL GREEN: Absolutely. And thank you for allowing us to share that. I think Dr. Hudis pointed out some of what we've done since ASCO's establishments and really charging everyone on staff to really live out that obligation of equity, diversity, and inclusion. And so through our programs, our staff have to do their work, make sure that we are creating equitable opportunities for patients and physicians, but it starts at home. And so we have to make sure that internally, we are offering those same opportunities for our staff to engage because what we know is that when staff are engaged, and they have the opportunity to bring their true selves to work every day, they bring their personalities. They bring their lived experiences. And that all plays out in the work that we're doing on behalf of members, in their patients, but also for staff. I think if I were sum up where our program is going, similar to what Dr. Hudis has done, the three components are really enabling staff success. We ought to be able to do that for our staff internally. Every day we ought to provide opportunities for them to succeed. And then making sure that our partnerships-- those that we work with, whether it's in our publications, our meetings-- making sure that our partners goals and ideals align with ASCO's values and ideals. And all of this, of course, is in support of the greater ASCO enterprise, which is our members and the patients and of course, ASCO staff. NARJUST DUMA: And I think that it's really important-- I had the pleasure of interacting with several staff members with diverse backgrounds. And I think as we develop the mentorship program and other things, their input is diverse. It means we also are able to cover the trainees needs because every trainee's needs are different. And because I cannot give a talk or do a podcast without mentioning my grandma, [INAUDIBLE], I have to say that it's important to clean your house first before you go and try to clean other people's houses. I do promise it's beautiful in a Spanish. But I think it's important that everybody knows that internally ASCO is doing a lot of work. And I think it's important to talk about the grants in health equity. And I'm mentioning this because I haven't been doing health equity since I was a med student. And sometimes you find yourself not having enough grant opportunities. Now there is an increase. But when you compare it to other areas of oncology, you may be more competitive because there are less grants. And I think it would be great to hear from the both of you about the new health equity grants, the breast cancer disparity grant, and beyond. CLIFF HUDIS: Well I would just point out something to build on your comment, first of all. Since we were founded in 1964 til now-- so just over 55 years-- we've made unbelievable advances, I think, in oncology in general. Indeed the reason I as an old man chose to go into an oncology in the 1970s was that the vision ahead was that this was going to be an exciting field. And it has not disappointed. However there's a dark that I think we should acknowledge. The advances have not been fairly or evenly distributed. And indeed in some cases when we make massive improvements in outcomes in terms of what's possible with state-of-the-art care, we increase disparities because not every group catches up. And I say all that because it's important to understand that this is not about abstraction. These grants that address that gap are as or more important than the basic science grants that actually advance the biology and understanding in the first place. One without the other is incomplete. So I can't agree more that this is important. And actually from an investment or return on investment point of view, in some ways, these grants are an even better deal because we can rest many of these gaps in care delivery and in knowledge pretty quickly and narrow the gap. And we've seen it. I'm going to give you some examples in a moment. Whereas funding basic science, honestly, is a much higher risk proposition, if you think about it. So I don't mean to set up a false competition here. But I want to point out that there's a big reward. So here's an example. The plenary session abstract at ASCO two years ago now-- abstract number one, if you recall, was no moral less than an analysis of the impact of Medicaid expansion. And what did it show? It showed that with Medicaid expansion, those states that implemented it quickly narrowed the gap in time to initiation of therapy for curable colon cancer. It's a simple take-home point. I care passionately about this personally because these are differences in outcome that have been labeled as associated with race for many years or other specific ethnic facts. But really what they're about is nothing except unfair, uneven access to care in the first place on the basis of race. And it's something that we can address. So we are building out programs to address this through a number of granting mechanisms. For 2020 alone, there are going to be two Young investigator awards that are earmarked for underrepresented populations. And there's a career development award and another YIA, Young Investigator Award, in health disparities specifically. But this is just, I think, part of the issue. The other issue for us-- and actually a commitment going back for years-- is to do something about the workforce itself. And I don't have to tell you, but of course, there is a huge disparity playing out when we look at makeup of medical students in America. And it gets accentuated to the extreme when we look at black men. They are the most disproportionately underrepresented group right now. So how are we going to address that? And we're really proud this year to be launching a program that is aimed at newly-matriculating medical students building on a successful program in Boston that's been running for a couple of years already with Bob Mayer is the founder. And our goal is to the interest of specifically targeted populations, not just in medicine but specifically in oncology. NARJUST DUMA: Mrs. Green, you would like to add something about the grant and what is happening to support health disparities various research at ASCO? SYBIL GREEN: I'll just add the importance of any grant opportunity in any program being one to two. So it's one thing to be able to address bringing in the right medical students to be able to mirror the populations that they serve. It's something else to continue to support them along the way, and so not just stopping at the students, not just stopping at the research, but also making sure that was they're in practice they're supported. And a couple of grants that we've had for some time focus on quality, not just in ensuring that quality services are delivered, but actually helping practices to determine how to identify gaps in [INAUDIBLE] populations that are underserved because we may not be able to identify those same gaps that we would identify in majority populations. And so by giving them the tools to some of the other programs that ASCO has to be able to identify those gaps and then to support them along the way is really important. NARJUST DUMA: And I want to add to what Dr. Hudis mentioned about workforce diversity because this is one of my areas of research and passion. And it's extremely important to have a diverse workforce to represent the patients we're caring for. It's not only having a diverse workforce, but having a workforce that practices cultural humility. We cannot assume that we are proficient or we are competent in somebody's culture. I'm a Latina. And there are so many Latinos in so many different backgrounds that I cannot learn them all. And I think it's important that early interventions are-- because when you get exposed to a specialty early on during the training, that would change your pathway. I'm the daughter of two surgeons. I'm supposed to be a plastic surgeon. But a patient with cancer changed my life and my pathway. So we're able to support those students that have less resources and less access-- and that also includes rural students-- they may don't be black or Latino, they may be white, but they come from rural areas with limited resources-- we are sure that we meet the patient needs because there are aspects I don't understand. Like I'm in Wisconsin, and there are some aspects to farming I didn't know. Now I know when harvest is. And all of that allows us to plan appropriately. So I can see how important it is. And there's a task force that is run by Dr. Winfield, which I'm lucky to be part, that focuses on the workforce diversity. Along those lines, as a minority in medicine, I have seen up and downs of the interest in workforce diversity and health equity. I think many events in 2020 helped a lot of people open their eyes or be more conscious like, oh, that's not isolated. That happens in my back yard. It happened in Kenosha, Wisconsin. But we want to hear how is ASCO making these things long term, how the internal and external changes are going to be long term? And I will start with Mrs. Green and then go to Dr. Hudis. SYBIL GREEN: So in terms of making it long term, it can't be one and done. I think quite often when we focus on equity and diversity issues, we always look at diversity first. And so whether it's workforce or whether it's increasing opportunities for access, you can't just look at the numbers. You have to also think a little bit deeper. You have to think about culture. And so culture with humility, like you mentioned, Dr. Duma, is important, but making sure that attitudes are changing along the way. And that happens through self-awareness. That happens through understanding. And I think that ASCO plays a real role in making sure that our members understand what the issues are and how to dig past those things and provide them with the tools to be able to [INAUDIBLE]. ASCO I think, is not unique. And the idea that this is all new to us has gotten a lot of attention because of some of the social and racial injustice. But what that means is that our members now are probably more interested in ensuring equity than ever before. But we have to teach them how to do it. We have to teach them how to speak the language. We have to teach them how to be more aware, both in their own organizations, at ASCO internally, and for their patients. And so it's a cultural change. It's not going to happen overnight. It's gradual understanding of the dynamics, gradual understanding of different peoples goals, and meeting them where they are, so that we can help them to move along, so that we can come to a more equitable and just [INAUDIBLE]. CLIFF HUDIS: I think one of the things Sybil and I spoke about this summer is we launched our internal EDI effort-- relates to this. And that is this is not about identifying a leaky pipe and patching it and saying, well, we're done now. This is actually, in my view, a permanent change in the way we see work and the way we see our growth. So the goal is to reach a specific landmark. The goal is to change how we think about our work and how we think about our role in the world, so that we're constantly improving. And it's a journey, not a destination, I think, which sounds trite. But that's the spirit of it. And it gets to your question about how we make sure that the commitment is continuous and not just while it's [INAUDIBLE] and exciting. And I think we are committed and dedicated to that. I do want to present a related challenge because it's something you said really sparked this thought for me. As a physician, when did you know that you wanted to be a physician? How old were you? NARJUST DUMA: I was 5. CLIFF HUDIS: And, Sybil, when did you know what your career path was going to be? SYBIL GREEN: I was 9. CLIFF HUDIS: That doesn't support my thesis [LAUGHS] [INAUDIBLE]. So here's the issue. The issue of burnout in medicine right now is getting a lot of attention. And one of the reasons for it, frequently given, is that doctors on average decide to commit to their careers a decade younger than most people on average commit to other careers. You're an exception, Sybil, so I should have pretested the question. But the issue is we're not here to talk about burnout today, even though that's really important. The issue is this. In order to ultimately address the makeup of the population of physicians, we need to reach deeper and further into precollege communities. And we need to show people that they could have lives in science and health care and in medicine and maybe specifically oncology. And I'm just pointing out to you that that's a daunting challenge for a professional society like ASCO. That's not our audience. We don't have a natural connection there. And one of the things that we're working on right now is identifying programs that have worked, that exposed high school students from previously excluded populations or communities to medicine, so that we can spark that passion before college, not during college, and therefore have the commitment that it takes to go far into medicine. And I'll just close by saying something that you hinted at but needs to be said. The reason to have diversity in our workforce is not that an Asian patient needs an Asian doctor. It's that an Asian patient needs a practice that has Asian doctors in it, so that the practice as a whole is able to be culturally sensitive and able to relate and communicate and support them because I think sometimes this issue gets oversimplified as well. SYBIL GREEN: So Dr. Hudis, your theory is not completely [INAUDIBLE] I think it's relevant to this conversation because while I knew what I wanted to do at 9, what I didn't have was the representatives in the community. I didn't have the mentor. Interestingly enough, I had more mentors in pharmacy than I had in law because I saw pharmacists who looked like me. I happened to live in a town where there was a historically black college with [INAUDIBLE]. And so I saw people look like me. And it made it a lot easier for me to reach out to them, for them to mentor me, for them to start talking to me about what equity in health care looked like. That really wasn't until I was in college. But the truth of the matter is for most diverse students, most minority students, that doesn't exist. And I think that that's where ASCO's mentoring programs are really rich. You have the opportunity to do that. NARJUST DUMA: And I think this is important because you can do what you can see. And that has been proven over and over again. We unfortunately are running out of time. But I want to ask the final question. Like a manuscript, like a study, everything has limitations. And I think it's important that we talk about the limitations of ASCO doing this work because realistic expectations are helpful so we don't get disappointed when we have big expectations that may not be met. So Dr. Hudis, what are some of the limitations of ASCO to help equity work now? CLIFF HUDIS: You're right, it's a huge issue. If you think about where our scientific focus is, we can measure the disparities or the difference in outcomes. And we can write a paper about that but when you really get to addressing the reasons for it, it extends far beyond what we can do. So I guess our limit is we can call attention and rally colleagues and collaborate across the House of Medicine and broadly into Congress, where we can make a difference-- or to the United Nations and World Health Organization. But we can't do this heavy lift alone. We need other colleagues who agree who are willing to invest time and money to make the change. SYBIL GREEN: And I would add partnerships because as much as we're talking about social determinants of health, we recognize that all social determinants of health are not health related. They're not [INAUDIBLE]. And many of them live and operate outside of the realm of health care. But what we can do is bring our expertise to the table about the impact of those things, so that our partners stand in their own world, in education, in criminal justice, in financial assistance, how that can help really change the outcomes for patients. I think at ASCO, we've got that expertise. And we can do that. NARJUST DUMA: Thank both of you for your time. Thank you, everybody, for joining us for the second episode of ASCO Social Determinants of Health series. Please keep up with us. You can subscribe. You can see this on Facebook, YouTube-- when it becomes available. We'll continue to explore the social determinants of health and cancer care. You can leave feedback or emails, any questions to the professional development, at asco.org. And I thank you for your time. And have a wonderful week. PRESENTER: Thank you for listening to this week's episode of the ASCO eLearning weekly podcast. To make us part of your weekly routine, click Subscribe. Let us know what you think by leaving a review. For more information, visit the comprehensive eLearning center at elearning.asco.org.

In this episode we look at what the purpose of life is and how we can live it. Interestingly enough we discover that Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol beautiful portrays this way of life through the transformation of Scrooge. Join us for our Christmas episode and the conclusion to the third Season of our Podcast.

It is one thing to be financially rich and another to be time rich. What does it take to become the latter? In today’s new episode, top-rated podcaster and author, Steve Glaveski, shares where he got the idea for writing his new book, Time Rich: Do Your Best Work, Live Your Best Life. Aside from that, Steve and I also talked about the importance of instilling an entrepreneurial mindset among children and how it applies to situations outside of business set-ups. Interestingly, we also explore the history of the pre-COVID working condition as we discuss how companies are coping with the current challenge of work-from-home situations.  Join us as we talk about   Resource Links: Brett Trainor Website (https://bretttrainor.com/) Download The Growth Readiness Checklist (https://bretttrainor.com/resources/ Steve Glaveski Website (https://www.steveglaveski.com/) Download the Time Rich’s first chapter and automaton guide (https://www.timerichbook.com/) Know more about nootropics and ergogenic health (https://www.instagram.com/ergogenic_health/) Time Rich: Do Your Best Work, Live Your Best Life (https://amzn.to/38NpJa4) The Top Five Regrets of the Dying (https://amzn.to/3lwnR97) Collective Campus Website (https://www.collectivecampus.io/) NoFilter Media Website (https://www.nofilter.media/)   We’ll talk about: Steve’s professional experience [02:51] Teaching an entrepreneurial mindset to kids [06:34] Idea behind Time Rich [10:20] Flow state: Avoiding time and productivity waste [15:24] Tim O’Reilly’s business model for the new economy” [23:07] The power of the rule of two [30:20] Presence and significance of the Pareto’s principle [33:14] PCOATS roadmap [37:31] Steve’s take on nootropics use [43:10] Tips on increasing memory retention [45:10] Time to embrace asynchronous communication [48:05] What’s next for Steve [53:24] The one thing Steve recommends [56:17]   About Our Guest: An entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, Steve Glaveski is on a mission to untap the potential of people to lead more meaningful lives. He forwards this mission through his different ventures, such as the Collective Campus, an innovation accelerator; the Lemonade Stand, a children’s entrepreneurial program; and his podcast, Future Squared. In his latest book, he shares how being time rich is more valuable than living “comfortably miserable” lives.  If you liked this episode, please don’t forget to tune in, subscribe, and share this podcast.  Connect with B2B Founder:  Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCySoKsETeKxu-Fnf2VfE7Gg/

I interview Tiffany Foote, a public speaking coach who helps people reduce nervousness when they have to speak in front of groups. Tiffany specializes in helping Millennials who have to present in front of their bosses or executives. For many of us, when the pressure is on, we tend to feel more nervous and anxious. She talks about how real leaders are not the people who are fearless. They are the people who feel the fear and perform anyway. The good news is that, once you start to develop the skill of public speaking, courage is easier to find when you have to present under pressure.Interestingly, she talks about how, even though her generation grew up on Instagram and Snapchat, presenting a virtual presentation can sometimes be more challenging for this generation. (Millennials are used to being able to stop and rerecord until the delivery is perfect. You can't do that on live virtual meetings.)You can contact Tiffany at The Fearless Millennial https://www.fearlesspresentations.com/the-fearless-millennial/

Storytelling In Sales a Winning Strategy with Mitch Waks CEO, Author, and Consultant Mitch Waks exhibited the gift of entrepreneurship at a young age; elementary school to be exact. He realized the profit to be had in making is own cinnamon toothpicks and selling them to his classmates. During his college years, Mitch quickly realized his side-gig in a band would not pay the bills, therefore he established a “party planning” business, using his sociable personality to his advantage. Mitch may be the only college student who did not eat ramen noodles during that time. During his experience as a student-teacher, Mitch understood he made a grave mistake in career choices. Sticking with it until after graduation, Mitch went into sales instead of teaching. Mitch eventually et and married his first wife whose mother owned a home tutoring business with around 12 students. Mitch, during his time as an investment salesman discovered investing in senior care to be a lucrative move. Mitch spoke with his mother-in-law who agreed, and thus, Cooperative Home Care was born. Under Mitch’s leadership, Cooperative grew from a small tutoring business to a leader in the home healthcare and hospice industry with offices in two states. After 35 years, Mitch expressed a desire to share his knowledge. He took a sabbatical, hid out in the woods, and wrote his soon-to-be best seller On Entrepreneurship. Mitch continues to share his business acumen through consulting start-ups and established businesses alike. www.mitchwaks.com 314.368.9445 Home - Cooperative Home Care www.seniorlivingsalesandmarketing.com   Full Transcript Below Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (00:03): Hello, and welcome to another episode of senior living sales and marketing. I'm Roy. Uh, today we have a fascinating guest with us, uh, Mitch wax. He is the owner of cooperative home care out of St. Louis, Missouri, and, uh, Mitch. First off, welcome to the show. Thanks for taking time out of your day to be here. Mitch (00:23): Well, thank you Roy so much for having me on your show and hoping I have some interesting knowledge to pass on to your listeners. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (00:31): So you do, you've got such an interesting background and unfortunately we're not going to be able to cover it all because I'm sure that we could talk three or four hours, uh, you know, based on our previous conversations, but, uh, you know, a couple of things I think, uh, as we talked earlier, that really stand out is number one, you've been in business for 35 years. So, I mean, that says a lot for the way that you treat your customers, the way that you treat your employees, the way that you, your sales process. So communication communication with seniors, their families. And I think maybe more specifically, uh, we kind of agree on that storytelling aspect that telling our stories, our company stories, our personal stories, our values stories, those are all very important. So I think that'd be a great jumping off place. Mitch (01:22): Sure. Well, I think any sales person or marketing person in our industry has to be able to utilize storytelling in a different types of setting, because what we do is not selling a hard product like paint or ladders or cars. What we are doing is connecting with individuals and we need to connect with them at the heart level, right? And sales people can have a great advantage over many of their peers. If they just learn the art of telling a story often, that's a true story of why they're working for the company they're working for or how the company helps somebody through a great tragedy and was able to bring that family peace of mind, right. Or it can really be any story that connects. And the story obviously needs to fit the opportunity that you're talking to a presenting to, but the best salespeople I've ever seen in any industry are ones that can make a good heart connection with their prospects and get them to agree that the service is exactly what they need and they're willing to sign up. Um, yeah. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (02:47): Yeah. And I think that's a great point that, um, you know, in this business, we it's, we're not, um, we need to connect at that level because we're not taking home can of paint. We're actually entrusting you to care for our loved ones. And I think you have to have such a deep, personal connection and build that trust with those, with, uh, you know, there, the trust needs to be between the sales person and the prospects that you can deliver on this care that you've told me you can for my loved one. Mitch (03:21): Yeah. Um, yeah, I think you're absolutely right, Roy. You understand it? And the story can be the company's story. And I would say, if you don't know your company's story, you need to go to the leadership or the owner, uh, or the CEO of the company and say, Hey, can you tell me your story of why you started this company? Why did you start this assisted living? Why did you open up this nursing home? Why did you decide to get into metal liquid medical equipment, uh, and learn their, their why story? And I believe for those listeners, uh, in your, uh, in your listening area and in your, who are listening to you, I think if they haven't, um, heard Simon cynics presentation is very famous. Now, Ted talk on why on starting with why they need to go, uh, to, uh, Ted talks or YouTube look up Simon Sinek. And, uh, it's about 15 minutes and it's one of the best sales tools that, uh, uh, and any sales or marketing person can learn and start to understand. Now, once they understand that, then even if they don't have their own story, but I'm going to tell you, everyone has a story. Right. But even if they don't know that they have a story, they can begin with the why story of their company and use that. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (04:46): Yeah. Yeah. And I think that's, uh, uh, you know, we need to connect on that emotional level in this really goes for all products you need to get, because unless you're, uh, in a unique position that you have no competition, you've got, you're the only person that makes this product, or the only person that provides this service, which I think very few people are lucky enough to be in that position. We all have competition and we have to differentiate ourself from that competition. And sometimes that is reaching down to an emotional level. I can give you all the facts and figures about my industry, about my product, about how awesome of a salesperson I am. But, you know, at some point people begin to glaze over with all these facts and figures. Whereas if we, if we try to reach them on the emotional level, it has such, such a more impact. Sometimes it's because we're being vulnerable and putting our story out there. But I just feel like that is a must for most, any salesperson. Mitch (05:52): I love how you phrase that Roy, the idea of being vulnerable, most salespeople, I meet early in your career who want to consider themselves rock stars. They want to dress fancy. They want to sound fancy. They want to have all kinds of literature that talks about, as you said, the facts and figures that eventually people will begin to glaze over. Right? If I come to you and as a physician and say, we have the best assisted living in all of Texas, how much, how many times has that position heard that? Right. And do you really believe the position cares that you've just said those words or believes you, right. Right. But if you can, uh, communicate with that physician, a why story that connects with him or her and her patients, um, now you have a chance to grab their attention and you're absolutely right. It being vulnerable and open, uh, can often mean the difference between people trusting you and not try and thinking of you as just a slick salesperson. Right. Exactly. And we know slick salespeople that that method just doesn't work anymore. I mean, I don't know if it ever did, but it clearly doesn't work in healthcare. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (07:11): Yeah. I think our consumers, uh, have become, become much more smarter than that. And then the, with the internet being so popular now, a lot of times our consumers have done more research on us and our competition. You, you try to slide something by them and they're going to call you out on it. It's not, it's not as easy as it was back in the, you know, in the stone age prior to the internet. Mitch (07:35): You're absolutely right. Our consumers are much more knowledgeable today. And I think part of the, uh, which story you're choosing to tell depends on who your audience is. I may tell a very different story, um, to an adult daughter of, uh, uh, one of our patients, um, then I will to a referral source, um, like a social worker. Um, and it also depends on the situation. So there's going to be situational stories. And over the years I have accumulated so many real life stories that pretty much any, any different type of person I'm presenting to or talking to, I can find the right kind of story to match their situation. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (08:21): Well, you just led into my next, I just, uh, you know, I'm not being rude here. I'm actually writing notes down. And so you just led into something I just wrote down is listening. So prior to being a great storyteller, I think we have to be good listeners. And this is something that, you know, we have a canned presentation and sometimes salespeople just feel like I don't care what you, as the prospect have to say or what you look like, you know, I've got this, I've got this thing I've got to get through. And I've heard it on phone calls before where they, uh, the prospect throws up all the stop signs, but we just keep running through it because it's like, I've got, uh, all this to say. So sometimes, uh, listening is what listening is always good, because we want to hear what they have to say, but we have to know where to start. I mean, when somebody comes to you, why, why did you come here? Is, you know, that's the why, but then are we trying to meet a security issue, a health issue medication, you know, why, what is, what is the need? And then that way you can address your story to what the need for that specific prospect is. Mitch (09:36): Well, Roy, uh, when are you available to come train some of my sales staff, please? Because you really know your stuff. Uh, you're absolutely right. Um, in many of our new, or even sometimes our seasoned, um, in, uh, sales and marketing staff, they do what we refer to as show up and throw up. Right. You've heard that one. And it's like, just what you said. They, they want to get through as much data dumping as they possibly can. And that's the exact opposite. We try hard to train all of our sales and marketing people to do the opposite. Don't show up and throw up, it's sit down and shut up. Right. And then just begin by asking questions. Right, right. Uh, don't don't tell them anything yet because they don't care yet until they know that you care. Right. Right. So how do they know you care? Mitch (10:31): Unless you start asking real questions about them, about their family, about their fears, about their concerns about mom or dad being left alone, you have to understand why they need help, why they're out there looking what they hope to accomplish. And all of that takes questions. You need to understand the personality of the end-user, but you also need to understand the needs of the secondary party, which I, in our industry, it's usually the adult child, right? Who's who's making the phone call to me. It's not Mrs. Jones, the end client for us. It's the daughter of Mrs. Jones often, or the daughter in law who calls and says I'm having trouble with my mom. I'm concerned about mom. And so rather than tell her how wonderful my company is. Most of the stuff I will tell her will be irrelevant because there is so much to share until I know what they need exactly. And what their event. So if you're out there listening today and you're just getting started in sales and marketing, if there is one lesson, I would reiterate with an asterix, what Roy just tried to teach you. And that is, listen, listen, listen, ask questions and learn what they're about. Yeah. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (11:54): Yeah. I hear the old saying all the time that that's why God gave us two ears and one mouth, we should be listening twice as much as we're talking. Uh, you know, and a lot of this depends on the need. You know, sometimes people come to us in emergency situations. They gotta make a decision immediately, but typically people start looking quite a while before they make a decision. And so we may have anywhere between, you know, eight to 10 touches before we finally get somebody signed up for our service. And so I think the other great part about if you're truly asking thoughtful questions and listening, you have a built in followup mechanism already. You don't have to, you know, because I sounded like a broken record on this show because one thing I can't stand is for, you know, me to reach out and say, Hey Mitch, remember this is Roy. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (12:50): We talked the other day, are you ready to buy yet? It's like, Oh my gosh. Instead of like, uh, you know, Hey Mitch, you know, whatever is going on in your life at the time, you know, how's your mother doing? How's your father, uh, you know, whatever their situation to have that thoughtful conversation bef you know, we don't, Oh, we need to ask for the sale. And I'm not, I'm not discouraging that, but we need to know when to ask for the sale. And we need to know when to have that thoughtful conversation that shows that we really do care about your, you, your family, your prospect. We want to help you solve the problem. Not just, uh, I need to get another sale book today and moving on. Mitch (13:33): Yeah, I absolutely agree with you. I think a new even experienced sales and marketing people could learn from what you're talking about and the idea that we need to get away from. I think the label of being salespeople, even though we know that's kind of what we do, but what I teach all of our sales staff and marketing staff is you need to learn how to be a trusted advisor, right? And we reiterate that phrase over and over. You are a trusted advisor. People have to trust that you will give them advice that's in their best interest. So just those two words combined together are very powerful tool for marketing and sales people to keep in the back of their head. As a matter of fact, there's a wonderful book out there. I would recommend it's not mine, but it's a wonderful book. And it's called the trusted advisor. Mitch (14:30): And it goes into the concept of how do you begin by asking questions and then trying to solve people's problem. And often, and this is especially powerful, right? And you know this, if you can't solve their problem today, you have to be outrageously honest and you don't have to say, I can't solve this problem, but Hey, I know somebody who can write and I want to introduce you to a different company who is a much better fit for what you really need. Yes. And I'm going to actually reach out and make the connection. So you don't have to, cause I know you're stressed right now. I'm going to have this person call you today. And um, if you ever do need our services down the road, great. Or if you ever have questions down the road about senior care, don't hesitate to call me. Even if it's not about my company, I'm going to help you get what you need. Right. That's a true the trusted advisor. And if you get to that status, man, you have loyalty Roy. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (15:34): Exactly. Yeah. And it it's, we shouldn't, um, it's not a bad thing that we can't serve. Everybody. We all have our niches that we try to fall into. And so being honest is much better to me then, uh, signing somebody up, not being able to meet their needs and then having an unhappy customer on our hands. Because you know, the numbers that I see on that as a happy customer tells one person, an unhappy customer tells eight people. So word of mouth, especially when you're not providing what you said you could or what they need. And that's another thing, uh, to kind of going back to the listening is we really have to listen and ask those questions to know what is the actual need. Because sometimes we feel like everybody just needs our service. You know, it's like they say, when you're a hammer, everything looks like a nail, but that's not always the case. Everybody has very specific needs. Mitch (16:34): Right? You can't show up with only a hammer. You have to show up with your whole tool balance. Right? Exactly. And, and then you need to measure if we're going to use this, uh, perpetrator analogy, right? You need to understand where the, uh, where the problem is and the construction you need to measure twice. And what I mean by that, you need to ask twice, ask lots of questions before you come up with a solution, right. And then decide which tool is best for that particular situation. Can I tell you one story certainly of being a trusted advisor and problem-solving certainly, so here's an example I'm going to share, um, that all of your, um, potential, uh, sales and marketing audience, um, uh, could use something like this. I believe we had a position who did a lot of referrals for home care, but we weren't getting any of them. Mitch (17:26): And we kept marketing to him. We kept visiting and he kept blowing us off and just, I don't have time and I'm too busy and we knew he'd been on his day offs. Uh, he could find time. So, uh, during one of the sales meetings, one of my sales marketing, people said, Mitch, I just can't get into this doctor. And, uh, he could a great referral source for us. So I said, okay, let me give it a shot. And I just dropped by. And instead of trying to give the physician a pitch, I said, Hey, uh, it seems like to me, you are really stressed and outrageously busy. What's going on with you. And it was that very simple question. What's going on with you, right? That, uh, without him the safety to open up and say, Mitch, I lost my billing person. Well, I fired my billing person, Mitch and the new person is clueless. Mitch (18:23): And I have not been able to bill Medicare, Medicaid insurances for three months. And I'm about to go bankrupt. Wow. And I can't fix this so immediately I knew he could care less about listening to one of my sales people right now. Right. Tell him how wonderful we are. Yes. He needed to fix his billing issue. So I said, Hey, I have the most experienced billing person in St. Louis, hands down. I'm tell you what, how about if I send her to your office and have her talk to your new billing person and teach her how to do what she needs to do and maiden, we can get your billing back on track. Now, is that a sales call? Yeah. Hell yes it is. Yeah. Excuse me. It's a sales call. Right. But what kind of sales call was that? That's called building trust, becoming a trusted advisor. Mitch (19:24): Right? I know how to fix your problem. Cause I'm the only one who bothered to ask. So what happened? I sent one of my employees. She spent a few days, um, and opened up, uh, the, the pathway for all the back billing to start flooding in right now. Uh, about 30 days later, I reached back out one. He took my call and immediately he was incredibly grateful. So thankful and said, when do you want to come by and start talking about referrals? I can give you like that anytime you want. Right. We ended up going out to dinner later. We cemented a relationship. And so for me, that was, um, well, two touches for me overall, you know, my billing person made a few touches. One of my original marketing people made some touches. So we're starting to get to your idea of 10, but, um, it was the right type of touch eventually. Right? Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (20:23): And that's important that, uh, X and especially with referral sources is we can't always be a taker. And I think that's a great example of, we have to give, sometimes we get some reciprocation, then there's times we don't, but we can feel good about, you know, helping somebody else. But in the end, when you show people that you're willing to give it that's to me, an instant trust builder. And then all of a sudden, you may not be instantaneously. Like you said, it was a 30 days, but still you were able to start seeing how that comes back to you. So that's an awesome, awesome example. I love that. Mitch (21:00): Yeah. Yeah. Another thing that we teach our marketing salespeople, Roy is the following phrase, and then there's a whole kind of teaching lesson behind it. But the phrase does business moves at the speed of trust. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (21:15): I love that. I'm going to actually write that one down. Mitch (21:18): Yeah. And in today's day and age, it's very easy for people, as you pointed out yourself earlier to do a little research and realize if you exaggerated some numbers or just made something up on the fly because they're more educated than ever. Yeah. Right? Yeah. So they have to trust you. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (21:36): Yeah. And I think trust, uh, sometimes, well, like we talked about earlier, sometimes it's like, Hey, we can't really provide that service, but let me help you. But the other thing is that it's not a defeat. If you tell your prospect, you know what? I don't know the answer to that, but I will get back to you. I have much more respect for a sales person that will tell me that. Then you can see the eyes roll back in their head. Like they're really thinking of a good story that they think is going to reach out to you. But you know that it's probably probably may not be, uh, all, all truth. Mitch (22:13): Right? Well, another thing that we try to teach our salespeople, and I don't know if you have experience with this, but if they haven't taken a disc profile test for themselves, D I S C disc, it's a personality profile. That is very simple. It's similar to Myers-Briggs, but it's much simpler. Uh, there's only four categories. And, um, what you're going to do is learn two things. One, what is your, what is your disc profile? What drives you as a salesperson, right? And the other thing that you really need to take away from that training and this training is available all over online. Lots of people who can come into your agency and company and help you with it. The other thing you're going to learn is how do I identify the disc profile of your prospect? So if I am talking to a person, let's say I'm a CFO of a hospital. Mitch (23:16): They don't need the touchy feely stuff. Right. Often when do you identify what kind of personality they have, you have to adjust your approach to them. Right? And the biggest mistake I see of young sales and marketing people is they have a one approach they've memorized it. And it's like, it's one size fits all. And that just doesn't work unless you get lucky and you happen to find the match for which the, that, for that, uh, for that experience sharing. Right. Um, and that's one out of four maybe, right? So you're already cutting yourself off at the knees. Am I going to give the same presentation to a CFO as I do to a social worker? Well, you know the answer, Roy and I hope you're listening to the answers. No, you can't. Yeah. A social worker is a very different type of person. You know, they want to make sure that whoever the referring to you is, is cared for in a, in a nurturing and loving way. Mitch (24:16): They want to know that, Hey, you're gonna, you're going to take care of these people. A physician wants to know that, Hey, I don't want to get any late night phone calls from this patient complaining. I've got so much on my plate. Right? And so they have a different need. The CFO of that hospital, man. Don't tell me how wonderful your caregivers are. Uh, tell me, what's your percentage of readmissions, uh, after they get home care, right? So you have to know your audience and tailor your presentation, which is another reason you don't show up and throw up, you ask you observe, look at their office space. W you know, what kind of person are they, and then you need to tailor your, your, uh, problem solving to that individual style. Does that make sense? Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (25:03): No, it makes a lot of sense because, well, in, uh, you know, it's like the, um, a lot of times you're the CEO executive types that they are fact-based whereas your social workers, very caring based. And so it's got to be a different message to, to reach the, I guess, the, the people that they are as well. And, you know, they kind of something I wrote down earlier was we market a lot to adult children, or we speak with adult children trying to help mom and dad make decisions. And so, but there is a gap there because if you're speaking to, um, one of the silent generation, maybe it's their partner that needs the help, or, um, they are more involved in the decision than say the adult child who is of the baby boomer generation. There's a lot of differences of messaging toward them. You know, the thing that I think about is, um, the silent generation, they were about things. You can give them a coffee cup, a pencil, a pad, they love that stuff. They love to collect stuff. We're baby boomers. We are more about the experience. I want to know what is the, if I sign up with your company, what is that experience going to be like for me? Mitch (26:22): Oh, that's a great point. And I think Roy, that your listeners, your followers need to understand that in when all of a sudden done, if we're talking about the decision maker, it's not just the adult child, it's 92 of the time. In my experience, according to everything that we track, we track numbers deliberate, gently 92% of the time, Roy it's the adult daughter or daughter-in-law right. You are talking to the female. That's in charge. Yes. Interestingly enough. Um, what happens in the dynamic is fascinating, the male of the party, but the son of let's say that the client will say, you know what, I'm going to deal with. Mom's finances. You deal with all the soft stuff. Right? Right. You deal with hiring the caregiver and the bad person. And, uh, let me just feel what the hand I'll pay her bills. And so we don't just get adult daughter it's we get adult daughter and was calling for their mother-in-law or their father-in-law because the son just can't handle that or wants to handle something different. Mitch (27:29): Right. So, so you need to practice your approach to that age of women, um, and how you're going to approach them and talk to them and what they're, what they want to know from you, which is different than if you're talking to the son. Yeah. And, and we know that, and we approach people there. And that's why, if you're, if your listeners in sales and marketing can really start to learn disk that whole training, again, that's not mine, I'm not pitching it, but, um, they need to learn it. And then quickly they will be able to identify what is that type I'm speaking to now I can approach, um, how I deliver the message. Right? Right. So the first part we talked about is how do you deliver the right message? Well, it's about understanding their problem and pain points. And then speaking to those, yeah. Now, how now, how do you deliver the message? Well, based on four personality types, you're going to have the same exact data to come back to them to solve their problem. But in four different ways, if they can master the combination, now they will see their sales numbers really start to increase. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (28:42): Yeah. And that's something I'm thinking, my mother figured that out because she takes a lot better care of my girlfriend than she does me. She makes, cause she knows who's going to, she knows he is going to have to be making decisions for her at some point in time. Speaker 3 (28:55): There you go. She knows. She's right. Well, Mitch, uh, it's been great. Uh, Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (29:01): I appreciate you taking time out of your day to be with us, but before we let you go, so what is one tool, our ritual or habit, something that you do in your daily life, whether it's work or personal related that you just feel like you couldn't do without. Mitch (29:17): Okay. So I am going to mention yet another person's book. Um, his name is Howe L rod and his book is called the morning miracle. How has written a great book? That's a very short, easy to read that talks about a method to start your day with a few separate principles that are very flexible and very easy to incorporate. And it's a great start to get yourself in the mindset of how to be a great person, but a great, but also good at sales and marketing and helping other people. Okay. So I will close with, uh, these four recommendations for people, right? The first one we talked about was go look up Simon Sinek and his Ted talk on why and learn that pick up, um, a copy of the morning, miracle by how Al Rob read that and learn that pick up a copy of the trusted advisor again on Amazon. Um, and, um, understand that approach to selling and marketing. And then, um, what was the fourth? Uh, it was, Oh, the disc, get yourself a disc assessment and then learn how to read the person you're standing in front of so that you can, uh, sell to them in the manner they want to be sold. So hopefully those are four and I think very solid takeaways. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (30:44): Awesome advice, Mitch. Well, and also, why don't you tell people, uh, number one, if they're in the St Louis area or have a loved one in the St. Louis area that, um, that needs home care, uh, be sure. And let them know how, you know, the one thing we didn't get to, if we could just touch briefly on, I wanted to, you know, um, home care and senior living can be partners to success for everyone, because some people may be asking the unwise, the, you know, why are we having home care on a senior living, you know, focus show, but, well, number one, we reach out to the same audiences, but number two, um, working in concert with each other, you have proven, uh, that it, it can be a benefit to both companies. Can you just speak to that? Mitch (31:36): Sure. Um, well quickly it's never been my strong suit, but I'll try for you. Um, there's a couple of things to unpack there. One, uh, why are we talking to somebody in home care? Well, the answer to that is because the largest desire of any senior by a long shot, when you ask them where they want to age in place is at home, right? So all of your people, whether they are selling in a nursing home or an assisted living or independent living, or one of these new, wonderful senior communities, they need to understand how to incorporate home care into their package. Right. And they need to partner up with home care agencies, because if they can do that, they can sell more services or they can bridge the gap. When somebody says, boy, that's just not right for me. Right. So, um, that's the why you need your salespeople who are listening, need to get to know home care, other home care salespeople in their market. Mitch (32:39): Now, um, how do they go about, um, uh, uh, partnering? Well, I can give you some real life examples of what we do. We often will go in to senior living complexes with, uh, an arrangement where we will rent an office, um, in that assisted living we're in that independent living and re or even the nursing home. Don't remember, uh, uh, the senior living places, especially the, um, the early process ones is to keep those rooms filled, to keep the beds filled, to keep the census as high as possible. So if you're in charge of the census and if you're being judged by your own or your boss CEO, Hey, what's our census today. You want that to be as close to a hundred percent as possible? Is that marketing person right? Right. Well, one way to do it is to make sure that people, as they are aging in your institution, and let's say your assisted living, don't say, Oh my God, it's, my mom is too bad off. Mitch (33:44): Now she has progressed beyond the capabilities. I'm moving into a nursing home. Well, you don't want that to happen. Right. So what happens? Oh, so what you can do to prevent that and to lengthen the average stay of your residents is to partner with a home care agency and say, um, you're going to provide the care that we're not allowed to. So in an example, we're in a few independent living centers. Well, you know, that there's a certain threshold before they can't stay there any longer. Right. And they're going to be asked to leave, right? Well, that's another open apartment, another open bed that, that marketing person that's the EO doesn't want. Right. So, um, and they're not allowed and they don't have the license to provide skilled care. Well, they come and talk to me or any home care that has a licensed home care agency in their market. Mitch (34:38): And they say, Hey, I need you to keep these people here longer with your services. And that's what we can do. So we're going to go in and we're going to do the skilled nursing. We're going to do the skilled PT, the OT, the speech therapy, post a stroke, um, um, the range of motion we're going to do whatever it takes to keep them in there longer. So they don't have to exit that facility and then go to the next level up. Right, right. That puts a lot of dollars in that institution's pocket. And, um, it's, it's often just about, um, tweaking the numbers just a little bit here, a little bit there, squeezing that lemon just a little bit better to get the most juice out of it. Right. So if you can take your average length of stay from 18 months to 23 months, well, that's a win, that's a big win. Mitch (35:31): Exactly. Yes. Yeah. So, uh, that's how and why you need to up with home care companies. And, um, and like I said, well, we do our arrangement. This we'll just pay rent. We'll, uh, to have a small little room there, we'll have one staff member there that goes around and continually looks at the, um, needs, the safety, uh, the med needs of all the residents. And if we find an opportunity to make a difference, we're gonna provide the staff to come in in there and do it. Okay. That also means less money spent by that, um, facility on another nurse to do rounds and do checks cause we're already doing it. Right. Right. So not only are there getting people to last longer, not only are they collecting some extra income from us from in rent now they're cutting some of their, um, overhead costs of labor, which is, you know, it's a pretty substantial costs, correct. Because we're providing some staff in there, right. That's a win, win, win, win for my company is home care when for the independent or assisted living and a win for the patient who gets to stay there a little bit longer because they don't want move. Right. Yeah. Who wants to keep moving? Yeah. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (36:51): Yeah. Changes the, um, you know, the hardest thing for the elderly, for sure. And especially the more, um, you know, the sicker, they are, the harder it is on them. So anything we can do to extend the stay and provide a higher level of care. So, well, I appreciate you running through that. I, um, you know, that's something I wanted to get to earlier and we just got, uh, talking to, you know, the sales and marketing and storytelling. Like I said, before we started, I know we could talk three or four hours, but thank you for taking time to be with us today. And if you don't mind, if somebody wants to, like I said, if they have a loved one or maybe there's somebody that wants to partner with you in the St. Louis area, or just want to call and talk about sales, uh, how could they get ahold of you? Mitch (37:36): Sure. Well, in the unlikely event, your, uh, your viewership, uh, extends up to, uh, Missouri or Illinois because we have offices in both States. Um, they can reach us through, um, just going to our website@cooperativehomecare.com. But if most of your listeners are actually in sales and marketing, uh, and they have some other questions on techniques or ideas, I would say, have them call my personal cell phone. And I, I love to teach people I'm happy to do it. There's no cost associated. There's no consulting fee. They can follow me at (314) 368-9445. Roy with Senior Living Sales and Marketing (38:19): All right. Great Mitch. Well, thank you so much. Uh, again, uh, this is Roy. Uh, we are the senior living sales and marketing. You can find us at www dot senior living sales and marketing, uh, Facebook, Instagram. And, uh, now we will be posting these, uh, uh, video recordings on YouTube as well. So until next time, thank you very much and take care of each other.  

Thank you to the listener that suggested I do a podcast episode on sexual dysfunction in midlife, causing stress to the marriage. Interestingly enough, I'm in a Facebook group for women in midlife, and I've seen multiple posts lately about the difficulties many midlife couples face in their sex lives. So, I feel like I'm just responding to the call of the universe for this podcast. Even though I'll be addressing other issues of the midlife sexual experience, specifically in this episode, I'm going to address the most common sexual dysfunctions in midlife with some solutions to dealing with them. While I'm giving you some ideas, I'm not an MD so consulting a doctor is essential.Let me begin by saying that we are physical and emotional beings. No matter what you are feeling about your sexuality right now, you are a sexual being who can still enjoy sexual intimacy even though you might doubt it. What I see happen is that when one or both partners deals with sexual dysfunction, it can cause them to feel shame. It can make them think that there is something seriously wrong with them. It can cause them to feel that they are no longer a sexual being. It can be a really sad time. But medical advancements provide so many options for sexual dysfunction today that it seems silly not to investigate them and try them out before throwing your sex life away.We can enjoy sex in midlife, but it often means acknowledging the problem and facing it head-on. If you look back over the years of your life, how many times have you had to change things up a bit? We change workouts to accommodate our changing bodies. We change our diets when our health problems demand it. We go to our doctors when our aging bodies need more attention.Change is inevitable, no matter how much you dislike it. And we have two choices: accept it and look for solutions or resist it and miss out. That choice makes all the difference in the world. Sexual dysfunctions in midlife don't mean the sex is over or can no longer be satisfying. Yes, women indeed have a drop in estrogen, causing lower libido, vaginal dryness, or vaginal pain, but men also lower testosterone. After men reach their 50's, erections may require more direct stimulation. The need to ejaculate is less urgent, and the rest periods between ejaculations grows longer. Medications for depression, blood pressure, and heart disease also affect the sexual relationship. With this in mind, I want to share some of the research I did on dealing with the physiological changes in midlife that affect the sexual experience. The first step is getting to your doctor and getting open and specific about what you are experiencing. Many doctors or OBGYNS will start with getting your hormone levels tested and assessing if prescription hormone replacements might help you.· Men can boost their testosterone levels with injections, patches, and other formulations. Women who have low libido can also use natural testosterone to help increase sexual desire. It can be delivered topically or taken by mouth and must be obtained by prescription from a compounding pharmacy. Blood testosterone levels must always be monitored. · Men who have trouble with erectile dysfunction caused by low testosterone and other conditions can ask their doctor about using a drug such as Viagra or other methods to improve erections. Who hasn't heard about the joys of Viagra? For complete show notes go to http://reviveyourmidlifemarriage.com/17

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”  Luke 1:26–28What does it mean to be “full of grace?” This is a question at the heart of our solemn celebration today.Today we honor the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of the Savior of the World, under the unique title of “The Immaculate Conception.” This title acknowledges that grace filled her soul from the moment of her conception, thus preserving her from the stain of sin. Though this truth had been held for centuries among the Catholic faithful, it was solemnly declared as a dogma of our faith on December 8, 1854, by Pope Pius IX. In his dogmatic declaration he stated:We declare, pronounce, and define that the doctrine which holds that the most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instance of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin, is a doctrine revealed by God and therefore to be believed firmly and constantly by all the faithful.By raising this doctrine of our faith to the level of a dogma, the holy father declared that this truth is to be held as certain by all the faithful. It is a truth that is found in the words of the angel Gabriel, “Hail, full of grace!” To be “full” of grace means just that. Full! 100%. Interestingly, the Holy Father did not say that Mary was born in a state of Original Innocence as were Adam and Eve before they fell into Original Sin. Instead, the Blessed Virgin Mary is declared to be preserved from sin by “a singular grace.” Though she had not yet conceived her Son, the grace that He would win for humanity by His Cross and Resurrection was declared to have transcended time so as to heal our Blessed Mother at the moment of her conception, preserving her of even the stain of Original Sin, by the gift of grace.Why would God do this? Because no stain of sin could be mingled with the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity. And if the Blessed Virgin Mary were to become a fitting instrument by which God unites with our human nature, then she needed to be preserved from all sin. Additionally, she remained in grace throughout her life, refusing to ever turn from God by her own free will.As we celebrate this dogma of our faith today, turn your eyes and heart to our Blessed Mother by simply pondering those words spoken by the angel: “Hail, full of grace!” Ponder them, this day, reflecting upon them over and over in your heart. Imagine the beauty of the soul of Mary. Imagine the perfect grace-filled virtue she enjoyed in her humanity. Imagine her perfect faith, perfect hope and perfect charity. Reflect upon every word she spoke, being inspired and directed by God. She truly is The Immaculate Conception. Honor her as such this day and always.My mother and my queen, I love you and honor you this day as The Immaculate Conception! I gaze upon your beauty and perfect virtue. I thank you for always saying “Yes” to the will of God in your life and for allowing God to use you with such power and grace. Pray for me, that as I come to know you more deeply as my own spiritual mother, I may also imitate your life of grace and virtue in all things. Mother Mary, pray for us. Jesus, I trust in You!Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2020 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

The CardioNerds (Carine Hamo and Daniel Ambinder) discuss aspirin as primary prevention, Vitamin D, Calcium, and omega 3 fatty acids supplementation with Dr. Erin Michos, director of women's cardiovascular health and the associate director of preventive cardiology with Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease. We are also joined by Dr. Michos' mentees, Dr. Rick Ferraro, Dr. Andi Shahu, and student doctor Sunyoung (Sarah) Jang for a discussion about mentorship and career development. This episode was produced by Dr. Rick Ferraro and Dr. Carine Hamo. Show notes & references by Dr. Amit Goyal. Episode graphic by Dr. Carine Hamo Cardionerds Cardiovascular Prevention PageCardioNerds Episode PageSubscribe to our newsletter- The HeartbeatSupport our educational mission by becoming a Patron! Show notes - Aspirin, Vitamin D, Calcium & Omega 3 Fatty Acids Supplementation What is the role of aspirin for primary ASCVD prevention?  The Conundrum: ASCVD event rates are much lower in the primary prevention than in the secondary prevention population, BUT the bleeding rates are comparable. So in the primary prevention patients, the bleeding risk is just as high, but the propensity for benefit is lower. The Question: Does low dose aspirin have a place in the primary prevention of ASCVD events. The Data: ARRIVE Trial: in moderate risk nondiabetic patients without prior ASCVD events, there was no different in the composite ASCVD end point, but there was an increased risk of bleeding (mostly mild GI bleeding). Thus, in the moderate risk patients --> primary prevention aspirin has an unfavorable risk-benefit profile. The benefit in a higher risk (>10-20% estimated 10-yr risk) remains unclear.  ASCEND Trial: In men and women age ≥ 40yrs with diabetes without prior ASCVD events, there was a modest benefit (NNT = 59 patients for 10 years to prevent 1 major ASCVD event) counterbalanced by a similar magnitude of harm (NNH = 77 patients for 10 years to cause 1 major bleeding event). Thus, in adults with diabetes --> primary prevention aspirin had a neutral risk-benefit profile. ASPREE Trial: in elderly patients (≥ 70 years; ≥ 65 years for Hispanic or Black patients) without prior ASCVD events, there was no difference in ASCVD events but there was a significant increase in bleeding events (NNH = 42 patients for 10 years to cause 1 major bleeding event). The trial was stopped early due to futility. Interestingly, there was higher all-cause mortality driven primarily by cancer. Importantly, patients had to have a life expectancy longer than 5 years and those with dementia, substantial physical disability, or high estimated bleeding risk were excluded. Thus, in elderly patients --> primary prevention aspirin led to overall harm.  The Recommendations: There was insufficient evidence to recommend a specific risk threshold for starting primary prevention aspirin. This may be due to more widespread contemporary prevention strategies like lifestyle management, tobacco cessation, statin use, better blood pressure control, etc.  Individualize the decision based on the totality of evidence for an individual's risk of ASCVD events versus bleeding events. Notably, those with higher ASCVD risk generally also have a higher bleeding risk.           Class IIB: Low-dose aspirin (75-100 mg orally daily) might be considered for the primary prevention of ASCVD among select adults 40 to 70 years of age who are at higher ASCVD risk but not at increased bleeding risk. There may be a role for primary prevention aspirin in select adults with a high estimated ASCVD risk and low bleeding risk. CAC score ≥ 100 may help identify those might benefit from primary prevention aspirin.           As always, shared decision making remains           crucial. Class III: Low-dose aspirin (75-100 mg orally daily) should not be administered on a routine basis for the primary prevention of ASCVD among adults >70 years of age.

My GuestThis is a feature-length interview with Christian Ross who is Managing Broker in Atlanta and serial real estate volunteer. We discuss her early political science career in PR and media relations. Christian was a communication consultant and then moved into Real Estate and forged a successful career in this industry. Interestingly, she was Managing Partner at an exclusive female cigar accessory business. She helps at the Atlanta Realtors Association and has helped as a coach for diverse clients. We discuss leadership and disenfranchised Americans in corporate America. Find more details about the podcast and my coaching business on:www.absolutebusinessmindset.comDo you want to be a podcaster? Sign up onwww.abmpodcastcourse.co.ukFind me onLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayward-163721a0/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/markjhaywardSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/absolutebusinessmindset. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Foundations of Amateur Radio Over the past nine and a half years I've been hosting a weekly radio net for new and returning amateurs. Called F-troop, it runs every Saturday morning at 0:00 UTC for an hour. Feel free to join in. The website is at http://ftroop.vk6flab.com. In making the better part of six thousand contacts during that time I've learnt a few things about how nets work and how there are built-in assumptions about how a contact is made. There are several things that seem universally accepted that are not actually supported by the evidence and repeating them to new amateurs is unhelpful. For example, there is an assumption that on 2m there is signal reciprocity. By that I mean, what you hear is what the other party hears. On HF, contrary to popular belief, this is also not universally true due to massive power and antenna differences and signal reports on FT8 bear that out - for example, my signal is often reported at least 9 dB weaker than the other station. The reason that on 2m this isn't the case is because in general there is at least one other transmitter involved, the repeater. If you're joining in via a remote network, either via RF or via the Internet, there are even more times when this isn't true, but let's stay with the simple scenario of a single repeater and two stations. If I'm using a base-station with a fixed antenna, my connection to the repeater is rock-solid. If you are using a hand-held and you're on the move, your connection to the repeater is anyone's guess. It could be great, it could be poor or even non-existent. Not only that, the repeater is often using higher power, sometimes much higher. On average the repeaters near me are using 30 Watts, the highest uses four times that, the lowest uses 10 Watts. In contrast, a handheld uses at most 5 Watts, but more likely than not, half that. Receiving a strong signal on a hand-held is simple, transmitting a weak signal to a repeater is not. The point is, you might be hearing me as-if I'm sitting next to you, but I might be hearing you on the other end of a really scratchy and poor, intermittent and interrupted link. If you add other repeaters and links with differing volume or gain settings to the mix, you get the idea that a 2m conversation may in many ways act like a HF contact. That implies that there are plenty of times when you should use phonetics to spell your callsign and anything else of interest, despite the often repeated assertion that you don't use phonetics on 2m. Another assumption is that 2m is less formal than HF. The people you talk to on 2m are likely to be local, perhaps people you've met at a HAMfest, face-to-face. You recognise their voice, you know their situation, their station and their habits. On HF however, you have contact with people across the globe, most of whom you've never met, will never meet, have no idea about, let alone have a relationship with. That's not to say that you cannot have a friend on HF, I have plenty of people whom I speak with on HF, often during a contest, whom I've never met, but whom I speak with regularly on air. I can similarly recognise their voice, their callsign and know what to expect. The point is that the more you look at the differences between 2m and HF, the more you realise that they are the same. Interestingly, as an aside, a contact on 10m or 15m can on plenty of occasions sound like a strong local FM contact. My advice is to not think of 2m as a "special" band, but to think of it as an amateur band with a set of conditions. By law you are required to announce your callsign every ten minutes and at the beginning and the end of each contact. Note that this doesn't mean at the beginning and end of each over. In case that doesn't make sense to you, a contact is the whole conversation from start to end. Each time a station transmits during that contact is an over. You should vary how you identify yourself, using phonetics or not, at the minimum required interval, or on every over, depending on the circumstances, not depending on the band. Look forward to making contact with you on what ever band. You can get in touch via email, cq@vk6flab.com is my address and if you're into Morse, this podcast is also available as a Morse-code audio file. I'm Onno VK6FLAB

Native video posts have become a popular way to share ideas, provide helpful tips and build relationships with your followers, and with the recent addition of Stories, where video typically features heavily, I thought it would be worth revisiting the topic. David Kilkelly is one of my favourite video experts on LinkedIn. I have followed him for some time for a source of inspiration and helpful tips so I thought I would have a chat with him about LinkedIn video. Interestingly our chat was as much about content as it was specifically about video.

"It's a Wesley episode, so buckle in." We certainly get this episode started hot and heavy. It must be the dolphins.Aside from briefly traipsing through French royal history, we also chat about which of the Star Trek crew we'd want to give our kids "the talk".. you know, with the space birds and the green-skinned alien bees. Interestingly enough, no one said Picard. May marvels at the broad reach that Star Trek has had in popular culture.But most importantly, it's a record setting first for the Warped crew as we play "Only Connect" and correctly guess two answers with only one clue each. Witness Warped history in the making. Boy, was that exciting! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.IntroductionThe word stephanos (crown) appears first in Homer--it's a good Greek name going back 8 centuries before Stephen's time.There seems to be no relation to the Stephanas of 1 Corinthians 1:16, 16:15,17.Stephen was the first martyr for Christ (after Jesus). Every week, a number of men and women are martyred for their faith in Christ.Scripture: Acts 6:1-8:3Character: Stephen the man of God Wisdom. Specifically, he was someone who understood those who felt misunderstood and underrepresented (fellow Greek [Hellenistic] believers).Service. As one of the 7 deacons, Stephen administered relief to the needy.Faith. This disciple believed to the point of death.Grace. Even in death, he was gracious towards his enemies.Power. Stephen was a conduit for God's power through his speaking, miracles, and strength of character.Witness: Stephen as bold proclaimer of Christ Like all convinced Christ-followers, Stephen bore witness to his Lord.He had the "big picture":O.T. history (the history of God's often-stubborn people)An understanding of a Christianity larger than Judaism (universal salvation).Stephen, like those who evangelized the Gentiles during the great persecution (Acts 11:19), may have been ahead of his time.The Antioch church strategically planted churches (Acts 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18), and the missionaries they sent took the word to Gentiles (non-Jews).On the island of Cyprus, Paul would later begin a more Gentile evangelistic strategy (Acts 13).Death: Stephen dying a death worthy of his Lord Parallels to the death of Christ.Both challenged the ruling high priestly family of Caiaphas. Seeing Jesus as mediator implied that Caiaphas was not the legitimate mediator between God and man. No wonder he and his cronies were so angry!Trumped-up charges.Executed outside the city of Jerusalem."Son of Man" saying (see Luke 22:69). This is a unique reference outside the gospels.Forgiveness of enemies (see Luke 23:43).Committing his spirit to God at death (Luke 23:46).Blasphemers were stoned under Jewish law. Read about the execution of the blasphemer (Leviticus 24:11,16). Even the apostle Paul would later be hauled outside the city of Lystra and stoned (Acts 14:19).Stephen's faith illustrates Revelation 12:11 beautifully.He was the first martyr of the Christian churc.The original meaning of martyr (martus) = witness.Many would fellow in his wake, especially by the time Christianity was illegal -- in the 2nd to early 4th centuries.Conclusion & Application Stephen bore witness to Christ in 32 AD, yet by faith he continues to speak today.It is with good reason that people have been naming their children after Stephen ever since (Stephanie, Steve, Etienne, Stefan, Esteban...) Further, 26/27 December is celebrated as the Feast of Stephen in the Western Catholic / Eastern Orthodox churches.How do you think the apostle Paul felt once he realized that Jesus was Lord -- and that he had presided over the execution of an innocent man? Interestingly, Paul stayed in the home of Stephen's fellow evangelist Philip (Acts 21:8). What do you imagine they talked about?Let's walk in the steps of Stephen:We too should be able to tell the the old, old story.Like Stephen, we have the "big picture"--not just of biblical history, but of God's desire to see all peoples reached.Be prepared to take a stand. Let's keep our eyes on the Lord of glory.Further:Read Alexander Strauch's excellent book on the biblical role of deacon. It is The New Testament Deacon.Sign up for weekly emails from Voice of the Martyrs.Learn something about martyrology. Not all martyrs were killed in the pre-Constantinian Roman Empire. For example. during a recent visit to Uganda, I learned about "Martyrs Day" (3 June) which honors 150 persons who chose to be burnt at the stake rather than renounce Christianity. This took place only a century ago!Pray for the persecuted and those being martyred in our world today!If you don't have a broad grasp of the story of the Old Testament, pray to be like Stephen, who was able to recite and interpret the scriptures with passion and accuracy -- and without notes. 

Tego Venturi: So, so Tracy one, let's just go into this. We want to talk about all the different I'm going to call it. The players in the real estate transaction, you have, of course, the real estate agent. Who's kind of the quarterback holding this all together. You've got a lender. Who's usually, unless it's a cash purchase, you have the title person or the title, agent title, company. And that's what we're going to dig into deeper here. But then you also have insurance. You have inspectors, you have an appraiser, could be repair people. There could be other people when I'm, who am I forgetting? Tracy Venturi: That's the bulk of them. That's the majority of the different players in the transaction. Tego Venturi: And so there's a lot of people involved there. And in people that maybe have never owned a home, bought a home, or maybe people that have owned and bought a home here, this word title, or title insurance, or title agent, we want to go into what that is, Tracy and, and, and, you know, first off, what is, what is title, title? Yeah. What is his title? Tracy Venturi: What does title mean? Interestingly enough, you know, we're not lawyers. So what we're talking about, isn't legal advice or anything Tego Venturi: For informational purposes only this is not legal advice Tracy Venturi: They're referring. When you talk about title, it's referring to the legal ownership and the legal right to use a piece of property. So we know title, you know, like home cars have title, right? And it's to keep track of ownership of the property. So titles like that. But there's quite a few things that that title does with regard to real estate. And people go, why am I paying for title insurance? What is it really doing? Right. So title insurance, you know, so it's a bigger topic, but so we're going to look for past ownership claims. They're going to make sure that you have clear ownership to the title and ownership of that property so that somebody else can't come after you pay money for it and say, that's mine. Tego Venturi: And that's what the title insurance does. So it's, you're, you're, you're basically buying an insurance policy that is guaranteeing that when you take ownership of that property, there's no other claims of ownership against that. Tracy Venturi: Right? So, you know, a lot of times, especially here in New Mexico a lot of times property gets passed down from generation to generation and perhaps the original owners forgotten and the paperwork wasn't done and the person who's selling the property, got it through just the generational changes of that property. And maybe there was never clear transfer and or maybe it was adverse possession. That's one of those things we learned in real estate school, right? Adverse possession, hardly ever, you know, somebody leaves and somebody moves into a property or takes over that property or lose use of part of the land. Tego Venturi: People hear the term squatters. Right. That's kind of what they're talking about. So yeah. So the, the whole, Tracy Venturi: Just making sure someone in the past, can't come back and take title of the property, right? Oh, it's mine, it's mine. So they're, they're insuring you to have clear title. Tego Venturi: And so the title agent and title insurance company, they're doing all those searches. They're making sure that you quote have air quote, clear title on the property when you take ownership. And they're, they're issuing an insurance policy saying that you have clear title, and if anybody makes any claims in the future, we're ensuring that. And of course, there's exceptions. And you want to look through that when you get your, what they call title binder, do you, and just talk about what a title binder is Tracy Venturi: After the property is either listed for sale or we're going to be listing it, or it's under contract, the title, company issues, a title binder. And they're going to go back and list all of the things they're finding with regard to that property and make it known. So some of the things that are going to be in there Tigo some of the things, the title company's doing for us is they're checking for liens, right? Is there, are there any liens against the property? So Tego Venturi: You need somebody having some sort of financial claim or ownership claim, but generally it's a financial claim. So it could be a tax lien. It could be a debt of some other types of debt. It could be a mechanics lien, right? Tracy Venturi: It could be for past child support and they placed a lien on the property. It could be the, that the, in addition to liens a different word the city or County or municipality may have placed some sort of extra tax on the property because of something where they improved the roads or they improved the gas lines in the street and they assessed it. Right. So they're going to look for those things also also they're going to look for easements on the property. Does somebody else have the right to use a portion of the property? And that's not that uncommon here, right? Tego Venturi: No. And especially places like the North Valley here in Corvallis, where, where you have a road that that's a private road that cuts through, you know, people's property. That's very, that's, that's not uncommon at all, Tracy Venturi: But most properties in New Mexico have some form of easement on them because most of them have some sort of a utility easement so that the gas and electric companies have the right to go on the property to take care of electrical or gas lines and things like that. So most of them have about a 10 foot easement just for that on the property. The other thing is they're, they're going to be working really hard to protect buyers against title defects. And we've kind of covered that. Unfortunately there are things, you know, that can come up. So doing that title search is pretty important. The other part that they do is they do all the paperwork. So they, they bring together the buyers, the sellers, paperwork, and any costs that were incurred during the process. So they get all the invoices from many companies that did inspections, repairs well, home warranties, homeowners, insurance policies, they put it all on that closing statement with the debits and credits Tego Venturi: And they prepared the deed, which is the actual document that transfers ownership from, from one party to another. And the deed is this thing that gets get filed with the, the County records showing who's in ownership of it. Tracy Venturi: Right, right. So that's kind of the quick high level, what the title company does in a real estate transaction. Tego Venturi: The important part is you need it, you gotta have it. And it's a critical part of the whole process. But looking at that title binder, if you're buying a house and going through it and, and understanding what exceptions are, if there's any, any challenges or issues on that, you, you know it right away. Tracy Venturi: And just one thing you said, you got to have it. You don't have to have it. That's true. It is not required, but it's something that, Tego Venturi: Let me push back on that. If you've got a loan, if you're getting a loan, you got a, the lender is going to require, Tracy Venturi: Right. You can choose it if you're, if you're paying cash, but wouldn't, you want all that extra protection. Tego Venturi: I would never buy a property without it. I would never recommend to buy a property without it, even if it's just a piece of vacant land out in the middle of nowhere, you know, that's a hundred dollars, you know, you, you want to, you want to make, yeah. You have title of title. Tracy. Can I talk about market data? Sure. Tracy Venturi: Yeah. Usual that you have some market data. Okay. Tego Venturi: I, I, again, I real quick, you know, at the beginning, at the top of the show here, I just talked about November. I just want to hit on a couple of things that are happening in the market, in, in one of them is the extreme lack of number of homes on the market. So if you are thinking of selling and that's our next topic is, you know, selling your home this winter we feel like it's a good time. I mean, it's th th the whole thing about when is a good time to sell, it's a good time when you're ready to sell. Right. It's just, you know, there's always going to be buyers. Yes. There's less buyers out there right now. However, you know, home prices have, have really run up in the last six months in particular. I do think home prices have settled down here in the last month or so, but again, things have, have jumped up six to 8% since last year.   Tego Venturi: So there is an opportunity to sell if you're thinking of selling. One of the, the overhangs that's out there that keep people keep talking about is these people that are in on forbearance programs, meaning they have a mortgage, they haven't paid on their mortgage because they've entered into a forbearance program with their lender. Technically it's called the L the loan service service, who it is. And, and what that does. It just puts a pause on your payments for however long. It is, can be three months, six months up to 12 months at the very beginning of the pandemic. And when these forbearance programs came out, a lot of people jumped into them. It was a big number what's happened though, since then, a lot of people have come back off. It they're there, they're making their payments again, and they're moving on. Tego Venturi: And, and so there was a lot of speculation that, you know, all these homes would turn into foreclosures. Well, just because delinquency levels are very high right now, meaning people aren't making their payments. That includes the people that aren't in forbearance programs, right? So they're either going to extend their program or they're going to sell their home, or they're going to just start making up their payment, or they're going to refinance and pay off that underlying loan. So there was a quote from Ivy Zelman, who is Elman and associates. There, they're one of the big trusted national real estate consulting companies that do a lot of analytics around real estate. And her quote was the likelihood of us having a foreclosure crisis again, is about zero. And there's so many factors to why that is true in all the different end information and data is pointing in that direction. So I just wanted to put that out there. Do we ever know for sure, no, but boy, the evidence sure. Shows that housing is going to stay pretty healthy, right? Tracy Venturi: Tego, let's talk about one more step of the process of who's involved in a real estate transaction. So let's talk about insurance, home insurance. So homeowners insurance is one of the, one of the other facets of buying and selling real estate, right? So when, when you buy a new home and you need to put insurance on it, so if you have a lender it's required, right? The lender wants to make sure that that there's insurance so that if the house burns down, the lender's going to get paid off. Right. but homeowners insurance is interesting because it, it can vary quite a bit what your rate might be based on a lot of things, right? And a lot of times people might want to shop different home insurance companies because they vary a lot. Sometimes they're more motivated. Their prices are different. It's not price fixed, but when you're getting a, a new home, one of the things that's, you know, how shoot aging myself, but you know, the whole house cars can be like, lemons, lemons, a car, that's a lemon. Tracy Venturi: You have lots of problems with it. How has this can be like that too? And insurance people will tell you that some houses just have a lot of homeowners claims, right? So when you buy or buying a new house, one of the steps is to get quotes for homeowners insurance to make sure that the rate you get is acceptable to you. And we have had a few in the last year or two where the client calls to get the rate for the homeowners insurance, whether they already have an agent or they, you know, call three, one, three different agents and get quotes or whatever where the property has had a couple of big claims. And the insurance rates are very high if they can get it at all. Tego Venturi: Right. And so that's one of the contingencies. When you put a home under contract, as we call it or pending, basically you're doing your due diligence. One of the due diligence steps is to get an insurance quote, make sure that the home is insurable at a, at a reasonable rate. Right? One of our friends is a very prominent insurance agent here, here in Albuquerque, actually the number one agent in the S in the state. And, you know, he, he says, as a homeowner, you need to think about when you are make, when you make a claim and when you don't make a claim, because too many claims on a house could actually affect the resale value of the property, right. It's something to just keep in mind Tracy Venturi: Or make it very difficult to get insurance, right. Which is a problem. So getting that insurance quote, and like I said, they vary the prices. What, what are charged varies a lot? And the if you have a lender involved, they require you to prepay for one full year at closing for homeowners insurance. And that's important because they want to make sure you keep it insured and it, and then if you have a lender, they are every one of your payments typically we'll be collecting. So that a year from now, after closing, where, when the homeowners insurance premium is due again for another year, that the money is there and they pay it for you because they want to make sure the house is insured. So that's, that's kind of the quick on homeowners insurance. Tego Venturi: Well, no, that was great. And do you have any more homes with the week we need to hit before we wrap up for today? Tracy Venturi: I don't know the homes that we were going to talk about are not available.