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This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we're exploring one of the rarest, most extraordinary birds on the planet: the spoon-billed sandpiper—a tiny shorebird with one of nature's most fascinating evolutionary surprises.If you caught our recent YouTube video where John compared a Roseate Spoonbill at the Field Museum to the delicate spoon-billed sandpiper specimen, you already know we love a good convergent evolution story. Two completely unrelated birds… both evolving their own version of a spoon-shaped bill. Nature never misses.In this episode, we go deeper: • How the spoon-billed sandpiper lives • Why this critically endangered species is so incredibly rare • The conservation challenges pushing it to the brink • And what makes this small shorebird so endlessly remarkableJoin married couple Dr. John Bates and Dr. Shannon Hackett, curators of birds at Chicago's world-renowned Field Museum, along with RJ Pole, and his wife Amanda, as we unpack the science, stories, and pure wonder behind the spoon-billed sandpiper.Whether you're a birder, nature lover, museum nerd, or curious listener, this episode is packed with insights into one of the most unique birds on Earth.Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
The Golden Eagle — one of North America's largest, fastest, and most powerful raptors — takes center stage in this week's episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together! Married ornithologists Dr. John Bates and Dr. Shannon Hackett from Chicago's Field Museum join hosts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole, who recently spotted Golden Eagles during their honeymoon in Arizona, to share insights about these majestic hunters of the sky.From breathtaking aerial speed to nesting habits and migration routes, we explore what makes this bird one of the most awe-inspiring birds in the world. Plus, we dive into listener feedback on John's Olive-sided Flycatcher episode — a fan favorite that continues to inspire birders everywhere!Tune in for stories of love, science, and soaring wings.
Hear from Von Miller and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, Sam Cosmi fills in for John Bates' usual visit, and Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 9 SNF loss to Seattle that saw Jayden Daniels injured.
Hear from Von Miller and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, Sam Cosmi fills in for John Bates' usual visit, and Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 9 SNF loss to Seattle that saw Jayden Daniels injured.
Hear from Von Miller and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, Sam Cosmi fills in for John Bates' usual visit, and Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 9 SNF loss to Seattle that saw Jayden Daniels injured.
Hear from Von Miller and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, Sam Cosmi fills in for John Bates' usual visit, and Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 9 SNF loss to Seattle that saw Jayden Daniels injured.
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 8 MNF loss to Kansas City.
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 8 MNF loss to Kansas City.
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 8 MNF loss to Kansas City.
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 8 MNF loss to Kansas City.
John Bates joins the program to discuss the Commanders mindset after losing three in a row.
Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features interviews with Neil Greenberg, John Bates, and some World Series updates.
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Joe Theismann, Jay Gruden, and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 7 loss to Dallas.
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Joe Theismann, Jay Gruden, and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 7 loss to Dallas.
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Joe Theismann, Jay Gruden, and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 7 loss to Dallas.
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Joe Theismann, Jay Gruden, and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 7 loss to Dallas.
In our conversation, we explore:What it was like to fly the legendary F-4 Phantom into combat.The moment his jet exploded — and the life-altering seconds that followed.What helped him survive nearly six years as a POW.The power of faith, friendship, and camaraderie under unthinkable conditions.One of the lowest moments of his time in captivity, and the lesson we can all learn from it. Why honor isn't just a virtue — it's also a strategy for long-term success.And how we can all bounce back from setbacks with resilience and grace.We also discuss Lee's latest and most heart-expanding book, Captured by Love: Inspiring True Romance Stories from Vietnam POWs, a best-seller that reveals powerful stories of real love forged in the fires of war and captivity.
Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features the guys debating what is wrong with Washington, John Bates joining the show, and the guys debating which person is the craziest on the show.
John Bates joins the program to discuss the losing streak and his Halloween plans.
In this episode, you'll hear:Why TEDx is hyper-local—and why that matters more than you think.The one mistake I made in my first TED experience (and what it taught me).Why feedback must start with self-awareness.What makes group presentations succeed—or fail—and how to avoid pitch disasters.Why listening to yourself on video is brutal but necessary (and how to make it less painful).Ruth is smart, generous, and a total TEDx pro, and this episode is packed with real talk, real tools, and real inspiration for anyone who wants to communicate at a higher level.
Welcome back to Birds of a Feather Talk Together, the podcast where bird lovers flock to learn more about the amazing world of birds!In this episode, we're diving into two of North America's most look-alike woodpeckers — the Downy Woodpecker and the Hairy Woodpecker. Whether you're a new bird watcher trying to tell these two apart, or an experienced birder curious about their unique behaviors and adaptations, this episode has something for you.Join your favorite birding hosts — John Bates and Shannon Hackett, married ornithologists from the Field Museum, along with RJ Pole and his wife Amanda — as they share field stories, ID tips, and fascinating facts about these incredible birds.Plus, we answer a mailbag question from one of our longtime listeners that led to a surprisingly “spark”-filled discussion — you won't want to miss it!
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Santana Moss and Jay Gruden break down the Commanders' Weel 5 win in Los Angeles. Plus, Ed McCaffrey discusses how he divides his time with two sons playing and one coaching in the NFL!
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Santana Moss and Jay Gruden break down the Commanders' Weel 5 win in Los Angeles. Plus, Ed McCaffrey discusses how he divides his time with two sons playing and one coaching in the NFL!
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Santana Moss and Jay Gruden break down the Commanders' Weel 5 win in Los Angeles. Plus, Ed McCaffrey discusses how he divides his time with two sons playing and one coaching in the NFL!
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Santana Moss and Jay Gruden break down the Commanders' Weel 5 win in Los Angeles. Plus, Ed McCaffrey discusses how he divides his time with two sons playing and one coaching in the NFL!
Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features an interview with John Bates and a debate on who was the biggest offseason addition for the Washington offense.
Commanders tight end John Bates joins the show.
Welcome back to Birds of a Feather Talk Together! We're taking a short break this week, but we've got something special lined up for you. While we gear up for upcoming episodes on Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers—and even a deep dive into the mysterious world of loons—we're revisiting one of our most popular interviews from last year.In this replay, your hosts John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Pole sit down with Kirk Wallace Johnson, acclaimed author of The Feather Thief. His bestselling book tells the gripping true story of obsession, theft, and the black market trade for rare bird feathers—a tale that bird lovers, naturalists, and true-crime fans alike will find fascinating.This story hits close to home for John and Shannon, curators of birds at the Field Museum. John even served as an advisor to Johnson while he was researching the book. Whether you're a birder, a natural history fan, or simply love a great story, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most talked-about bird-related books in recent memory.Grab your binoculars (and maybe a copy of The Feather Thief)—and enjoy our conversation with Kirk Wallace Johnson!Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Fred Smoot and Joe Theismann break down the Commanders' loss in Atlanta and how the 2-2 squad can improve going forward!
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Fred Smoot and Joe Theismann break down the Commanders' loss in Atlanta and how the 2-2 squad can improve going forward!
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Fred Smoot and Joe Theismann break down the Commanders' loss in Atlanta and how the 2-2 squad can improve going forward!
Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Fred Smoot and Joe Theismann break down the Commanders' loss in Atlanta and how the 2-2 squad can improve going forward!
Kijuan doesn't just talk about resilience—he embodies it. Whether you're going through a tough season or just need a reminder of how strong you really are, this episode will leave you inspired and empowered.
Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features an interview with John Bates, a look where the Commanders stand in the NFC, and a playoff baseball update.
Commanders tight end John Bates joins the show to update JP and BMitch on his injury rehab, discuss the Washington run game so far, and preview the rest of the season.
Hear from Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Von Miller, and John Bates in their weekly segments, and Santana Moss as he reminisces on the Monday Night Miracle! Also, new Maryland AD James E. Smith discusses how he's approaching the gig, and the legendary Cal Ripken talks all things MLB!
Hear from Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Von Miller, and John Bates in their weekly segments, and Santana Moss as he reminisces on the Monday Night Miracle! Also, new Maryland AD James E. Smith discusses how he's approaching the gig, and the legendary Cal Ripken talks all things MLB!
Hear from Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Von Miller, and John Bates in their weekly segments, and Santana Moss as he reminisces on the Monday Night Miracle! Also, new Maryland AD James E. Smith discusses how he's approaching the gig, and the legendary Cal Ripken talks all things MLB!
Hear from Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Von Miller, and John Bates in their weekly segments, and Santana Moss as he reminisces on the Monday Night Miracle! Also, new Maryland AD James E. Smith discusses how he's approaching the gig, and the legendary Cal Ripken talks all things MLB!
The Washington Commanders (2-1) play on the road this Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons (1-2) in Week 3 of the NFL season. This episode previews that matchup.We jump over to the Commanders vs Falcons injury report, which sees Jayden Daniels, Noah Brown, Terry McLaurin and John Bates all out of this matchup, and Will Harris placed on IR, so Jeremy Reaves starts in his place. Marcus Mariota is in line to start this game in place of Jayden Daniels.The Commanders offense, featuring Marcus Mariota, take on an underrated Falcons defense that is 2nd in the league in yards allowed and play zone 76% of the time. They have also been stout against the run so far, only allowing 4 yards a carry, which could make life difficult for Bill Croskey-Merritt, Jeremy McNichols and Chris Rodriguez. The Commanders feature Deebo Samuel and Zach Ertz. How do we have success against this Falcons defense?The Commanders defense goes against Falcons QB Michael Penix, excellent RB Bijan Robinson and a TE with WR skills in Kyle Pitts along with another former 1st round pick in WR Drake London. What do we hope to see on this side of the ball?The Commanders are road underdogs by 1.5 points and the over-under is 44.5 points. What is your prediction for this game?The Comment Mailbag features 10 comments. Thank you all for the comments! We greatly appreciate them as always.Please LIKE the video + Subscribe to the channel!Follow us on Twitter/X at https://twitter.com/DistrictDividedTIMECODES0:00 Intro1:40 Injury Report2:50 Commanders O vs Raiders D15:05 Commanders D vs Raiders O26:42 Predictions33:04 Comment Mailbag#commanders #commanderspodcast #nflweek4
From snapping shrimp to blue whales, from silence to soundscapes, we cover:Why diversity of opinion is vital in leadershipHow sound affects everything from productivity to healthSimple daily practices to instantly improve your listening, and be heard more clearly in returnWhat business gets wrong about audio—and how to fix itThe importance of designing your acoustic environment with intentionJulian also shares a generous offer for my listeners: a free one-week trial of his new online community, The Listening Society. Whether you're a team leader, teacher, or simply someone who wants to deepen their relationships, The Listening Society offers tools, insights, and a community that helps you grow through sound.
John Bates joins the program to provide his thoughts from the Commanders win and his confidence level in Marcus Mariota.
Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features a look at the current NFL standings and an interview with Commanders tight end John Bates.
The Washington Commanders dominated the Las Vegas Raiders in a 41-24 beatdown this past Sunday to move to 2-1 on the season. We dive into the All-22 Review in this episode.Marcus Mariota and the Washington Commanders offense was awesome, generating 34 points and over 200 rushing yards featuring 5 different rushers. Who all played well? How did Josh Conerly look on the Offensive Line against Maxx Crosby? What about Ben Sinnott in relief of John Bates?On the defensive side of the ball, we highlight the good, the bad, and do a mini deep dive on Dorance Armstrong, who has been nothing short of spectacular to start the season. Bobby Wagner is highlighted as excellent in rushing the passer, but poor in coverage, and speaking of coverage, how on earth did Tre Tucker go off for 8 catches, 145 yards and 3 TDs??The Side Piece Report sees both of Amit's team suffer horrible losses. The Falcons got blanked 30-0 against the Carolina Panthers, while the Patriots had 5 turnovers in a 1 score game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Meanwhile, KDot's Raiders lost to us, but his Vikings put up 48 against a weak Bengals team.The Comment Mailbag features just 2 comments this time. Thank you for the comments, Jamal! We appreciate them as always.Please LIKE the video + Subscribe to the channel!Follow us on Twitter/X at https://twitter.com/DistrictDividedTIMECODES0:00 Intro1:55 All-22 Review Offense15:44 All-22 Review Defense31:25 Side Piece Report37:22 Comment Mailbag#all22review #commanders #commanderspodcast
Jay Gruden recaps the Commanders' TNF loss to Green Bay and the injuries they suffered; John Bates and Von Miller also weigh in on all things Commanders and their own seasons; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Joe Maloney discuss the Commanders' return to RFK; on the MLB tip, MacKenzie Gore looks at how the next Nationals front office has to help get the most out of the players on the field; and, Alex Ovechkin sits down with the Junkies at Caps Media Day!
Jay Gruden recaps the Commanders' TNF loss to Green Bay and the injuries they suffered; John Bates and Von Miller also weigh in on all things Commanders and their own seasons; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Joe Maloney discuss the Commanders' return to RFK; on the MLB tip, MacKenzie Gore looks at how the next Nationals front office has to help get the most out of the players on the field; and, Alex Ovechkin sits down with the Junkies at Caps Media Day!
Jay Gruden recaps the Commanders' TNF loss to Green Bay and the injuries they suffered; John Bates and Von Miller also weigh in on all things Commanders and their own seasons; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Joe Maloney discuss the Commanders' return to RFK; on the MLB tip, MacKenzie Gore looks at how the next Nationals front office has to help get the most out of the players on the field; and, Alex Ovechkin sits down with the Junkies at Caps Media Day!
Jay Gruden recaps the Commanders' TNF loss to Green Bay and the injuries they suffered; John Bates and Von Miller also weigh in on all things Commanders and their own seasons; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Joe Maloney discuss the Commanders' return to RFK; on the MLB tip, MacKenzie Gore looks at how the next Nationals front office has to help get the most out of the players on the field; and, Alex Ovechkin sits down with the Junkies at Caps Media Day!
Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features an interview with John Bates, listeners thoughts on the Jayden Daniels injury, and a debate on whether Tom Brady is feeding insider information to the Raiders.
Commanders tight end John Bates joins JP and BMitch to discuss his season so far.