Podcasts about laughs

For the past five seasons, host Chris Duffy has been interviewing guests from psychotherapist Dr. Orna Guralnik to poet Sarah Kay to author Andrew Leland and more on how they work to become better humans. In this special episode kicking off season 6, Chris is now in the hot seat. Manoush Zomorodi, host of NPR's TED Radio Hour, joins as guest host to interview Chris on finding joy and how a 5th grader taught Chris humor. They also discuss Chris' debut book Humor Me and the lessons he learned from hosting the podcast throughout the years.For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscripts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Krewe sits down with Amy Hever, Executive Director of the MLB Players Trust, and Chris Capuano, former MLB pitcher & Chair of the Players Trust Board, to explore how MLB players give back through community-driven initiatives. Discover the mission of the MLB Players Trust, player-led philanthropy, & how baseball continues to bridge cultures between Japan & the United States through youth programs, education initiatives, & meaningful cross-cultural engagement beyond the field.------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ About MLB Players Trust ------MLB Players Trust WebsitePlaymakers Classic Info & TicketsMLB Players Trust on IGMLB Players Trust on X/TwitterMLB Players Trust on LinkedInMLB Players Trust on Facebook------ Past KOJ Traditional Japan Episodes ------Japanese Soccer on the World Stage ft. Dan Orlowitz (S6E5)Meet the J.League ft. Dan Orlowitz (S6E4)Kendo: The Way of the Sword ft. Alexander Bennett, 7th Dan in Kendo (S4E16)The Life of a Sumotori ft. 3-Time Grand Champion Konishiki Yasokichi (S4E10)Talking Sumo ft. Andrew Freud (S1E8)------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

The IT Dept joined us for a very lighthearted, fun and clearly directionless livecast!  LOLHowever you asked some fun questions to talk about and gave the poor IT Guy a run for his money.And not to be outdone by the IT Dept, Oliver made a guest appearance and demanded to be part of the action.

Bo and Joe wrap up an unforgettable year with the Best of 2025 episode of Out to Pasture — a heartfelt, hilarious, and nostalgic look back at the moments that defined the show and the Miami Dolphins roller coaster.In this special year-end episode, Bo & Joe thank the listeners, partners, and Dolphins community for their continued support, then revisit some of their favorite memories from the past year, featuring incredible conversations with Dolphins legends and friends including:Bob BaumhowerA.J. DuheJim JensenJoe KleckoMary LyonsNat MooreJohn OfferdahlDon StrockStu WeinsteinFrom legendary Don Shula stories and Killer B's memories to sideline chaos, locker-room laughs, emotional community impact, and classic Bo & Joe madness, this episode captures everything that makes Out to Pasture special.The guys also look ahead to 2026 — what's next for the podcast, what Dolphins fans should brace for, and why the bond between teammates, fans, and the South Florida community still matters more than ever.Thank you for riding with us through 2025. The laughs, the honesty, and the Dolphins talk aren't going anywhere.Out to Pasture is presented by Ed Morse Sawgrass Automallhttps://edmorsesawgrass.com/Out to Pasture is supported by Villa Italia Bakery. Visit https://www.villaitaliabakery.com/ and use the code BOJOE for 20% off your entire order.

**** DISCLAIMER*******LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK, NOT FOR THE EASILY OFFENDED. LISTENER DISCRETION ADVISEDIN EPISODE 359, WHISKEY J AN GARY69 BREAK DOWN THE NEW DAVE CHAPPELLE SPECIAL, REACT TO WILD CURRENT EVENTS, AND DIVE HEADFIRST INTO THE START OF A BRAND-NEW ERA OF RAMBLE CHAOS.GARY69 UNVEILS THE BLUEPRINT FOR THE FIRST HOUR OF POWER 2026- LAYING OUT WHAT'S CHANGING, WHAT'S STAYING SAVAGE, AND HOW RAMBLE IS LEVELING UP THIS YEAR.THEN THE GLOVES COME OFF WITH-RAMBLE FAN QUESTIONS-KING MEXICO'S LEGENDARY QUESTIONS-HOT TAKES, LAUGHS, CHAOS, AND STRAIGHT RAMBLE HONESTY.FROM CULTURE TO CONTROVERSY, JOKES TO JAW-DROPPING MOMENTS. THIS EPISODE HAS EVERYTHING THAT MAKES RAMBLE A MOVEMENT, NOT JUST A PODAST. IF YOU LOVE BOOZE-TALK, RAW OPINIONS, BAR BANTER STORYTELLING, COMEDY, AND UNFILTERED PODCASTING THIS EPISODE IS FOR YOU. WE LIVE UP THE NAME " THE MOST UNPROFESSIONAL PODCAST" AND #1 PODCAST IN UNINCORPORATED WHITTIER.REMEMBER WE'RE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY OFFENDERS EVERYONE GETS IT, YOU KNOW HOW WE ROLL. YOU KNOW HOW WE ARE. ANYTHING HAPPENS AND IS SAID WHEN YOU LISTEN TO US. ENJOYRAMBLE ARMY PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT. SUBSCRIBE, SHARE AND LIKE!!! JOIN THE RAMBLE ARMYRAMBLE+PATREON:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/Ramblingnetworkchannel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LINKTREE: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Ramblingalcoholics⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Inspiring Human Potential spotlights higher-self mindset lifestyle POVs, stories, ideas & practices

The Lusko kids join Levi and Jennie for a cozy, hilarious, end-of-2025 family episode—full of memories, real talk, and the kind of side comments only siblings can pull off. Together they look back on the year's big moments: college life, tennis wins, learner's permits, a meaningful baptism, and the wild joy of serving together. You'll hear the behind-the-scenes of the Bolivia mission trip (including travel chaos and a few very memorable mishaps), plus a rapid-fire stroll through favorite podcast episodes, sermon series that hit home, and the books/music that shaped the year. They wrap it all by looking ahead to 2026 with practical goals and spiritual rhythms. Connect with us on social! Levi: @levilusko Jennie: @jennielusko Fresh Life Church: @freshlife [Links] Gospels in a year (Print Ed.): https://bit.ly/4pQG2HN Gospels in a year (Digital Ed.): https://bit.ly/3L4HSWm Movement 2026: https://www.mvmnt26.com Get the 5 Gallon Bucket: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Get the Lusketeer Sticker: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Subscribe for more exclusive content: https://levilusko.com/hitl-subscribe Time Stamps 0:01:07 – New Year's as a “holy day” and old-school traditions 0:03:38 – 2025 family updates: college, baptism, tennis, and big milestones 0:08:34 – Bolivia mission trip stories: Compassion kids + travel mayhem 0:13:07 – Favorite podcast moments from the year (and the unforgettable ones) 0:15:07 – Blessed Are the Spiraling launch: 7 cities, 7 days, 7 runs 0:26:35 – What God taught them in 2025 + 2026 goals and a Gospels plan

Welcome to the season finale of Belly Up Fantasy Live! Vince Stover, Kevin Wilson, Brian Germaro, and special guest Hector Flores celebrate the end of an epic fantasy football season. From wild championship stories and league heartbreaks to deep dives into draft strategies and player awards—this episode delivers all the highs, lows, and laughs you love. The crew hands out their Fantasy Football MVPs, discusses overachievers and disappointments, and breaks down NFL playoff matchups with expert analysis and plenty of fun.

The Lusko kids join Levi and Jennie for a cozy, hilarious, end-of-2025 family episode—full of memories, real talk, and the kind of side comments only siblings can pull off. Together they look back on the year's big moments: college life, tennis wins, learner's permits, a meaningful baptism, and the wild joy of serving together. You'll hear the behind-the-scenes of the Bolivia mission trip (including travel chaos and a few very memorable mishaps), plus a rapid-fire stroll through favorite podcast episodes, sermon series that hit home, and the books/music that shaped the year. They wrap it all by looking ahead to 2026 with practical goals and spiritual rhythms. Connect with us on social! Levi: @levilusko Jennie: @jennielusko Fresh Life Church: @freshlife [Links] Gospels in a year (Print Ed.): https://bit.ly/4pQG2HN Gospels in a year (Digital Ed.): https://bit.ly/3L4HSWm Movement 2026: https://www.mvmnt26.com Get the 5 Gallon Bucket: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Get the Lusketeer Sticker: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Subscribe for more exclusive content: https://levilusko.com/hitl-subscribe Time Stamps 0:01:07 – New Year's as a “holy day” and old-school traditions 0:03:38 – 2025 family updates: college, baptism, tennis, and big milestones 0:08:34 – Bolivia mission trip stories: Compassion kids + travel mayhem 0:13:07 – Favorite podcast moments from the year (and the unforgettable ones) 0:15:07 – Blessed Are the Spiraling launch: 7 cities, 7 days, 7 runs 0:26:35 – What God taught them in 2025 + 2026 goals and a Gospels plan

Graeme Raubenheimer speaks to Alan Committie, comedian, as he reflects on wrapping up the Cape Town run, what the response from audiences has meant to him, and what lies ahead in 2026. Directed by Christopher Weare, Av-a-laugh-ta blended everyday realities — from home affairs queues and password stress to astrology, book clubs and travel mishaps — with imaginative twists, reminding audiences of the healing power of laughter during a demanding year Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For our last episode of 2025, We welcome back Samantha Storozuk, RMT to the podcast for a “Reddit stories” episode diving into the wild, weird, and wonderfully relatable side of massage therapy. From client awkward moments to therapist mishaps. You'll laugh, cringe, and leave with a few practical reminders about communication, comfort on the table, and what clients are allowed and encouraged to ask for during a treatment. In this episode, we cover:Why this format works: therapist stories + client stories (and what each teaches us) Client comfort: shifting on the table, speaking up, and “you're not being annoying” energy What a client can do when they feel uneasy with a therapist's vibe Therapist “oops” moments, social awkwardness, and how to recover with professionalism. -Contact Samantha Storozuk, RMTInstagram: @samanthastorozukrmt-More from Samantha Storozuk, RMTEpisode #063 "Go with the flo and sync your schedule" Union 108 -Contact The Radical Massage Therapist Podcastkrista@theradicalrmt.comwww.theradicalrmt.com@theradicalmassagetherapist-MentionedOn & Off The Table Podcast: Client Horror Stories. Real or Reddit?“Gesundheit” comes up as a sneeze-response discussion point; it's a German word meaning “health,” commonly used after sneezing. (Merriam-Webster)

Send Zorba a message!Dr. Zorba digs into new research that shows heavy drinking can lead to an increased stroke risk. Zorba helps out a caller (another Karl Christenson) with Barrett's Esophagus. The caller suggests that Zorba should bottle and prescribe his laugh as medicine. Zorba also helps a listener who has extremely itchy skin, we hear a Mom Joke, and we learn about glasses from the 1980s that were purported to help folks lose weight.Support the showProduction, edit, and music by Karl Christenson Send your question to Dr. Zorba (he loves to help!): Phone: 608-492-9292 (call anytime) Email: askdoctorzorba@gmail.com Web: www.doctorzorba.org Stay well!

Welcome to this special holiday edition of the Carolina Cabinet! In this episode, host Peter Pappas and co-host Laura Musler are joined by guest Irene Grimes for a lively conversation just before Christmas. The team shares festive anecdotes—from driving through Fayetteville's famous holiday lights to favorite family traditions and even a debate on the best walking tacos in town. They dive into behind-the-scenes updates on the Cumberland County Board of Elections, unpack surprising local candidate filings, and discuss the complexities of early voting in North Carolina.Plus, Laura Musler takes us “on the loose” downtown for some spirited, street-level holiday trivia. You'll also hear candid reflections on self-improvement, navigating political differences, and a bit of light-hearted banter on everything from the price of roast beef to the virtues of iPhones versus Androids.Whether you're here for community insights, some small-town holiday charm, or a few good laughs, this episode delivers a great mix to carry you into Christmas. Grab a cup of cocoa and enjoy the smartest hour on local radio!

Send Zorba a message!Dr. Zorba digs into new research that shows heavy drinking can lead to an increased stroke risk. Zorba helps out a caller (another Karl Christenson) with Barrett's Esophagus. The caller suggests that Zorba should bottle and prescribe his laugh as medicine. Zorba also helps a listener who has extremely itchy skin, we hear a Mom Joke, and we learn about glasses from the 1980s that were purported to help folks lose weight.Support the showProduction, edit, and music by Karl Christenson Send your question to Dr. Zorba (he loves to help!): Phone: 608-492-9292 (call anytime) Email: askdoctorzorba@gmail.com Web: www.doctorzorba.org Stay well!

We did it team! The holiday season is officially in the books—sanity mostly intact and vibration plates somehow acquired (seriously… how did we all end up with one?). Sarah recaps Christmas, gives moms their well-deserved flowers for making the magic happen, and invites all moms to go absolutely feral between now and New YearsWant more from Sarah?Personal Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@SarahMerrill_Hall⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Share some Laughs: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bigkidproblems⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out our new Show IG! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bottleserviceBKP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Sarah's Pregnancy/ Postpartum Must Haves on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bottle Service MERCH⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Big thank you to our episode sponsors!More Labs - Try Morning Recovery, the drink for when you drink, for 25% off with code THEBIGKID!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Quince⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - From quick dinners to slow simmers, Quince has the cookware to make it all better!Greenlight - Don't wait to teach your kids real-world money skills. Free trial at greenlight.com/bottleserviceUncommon Goods - Find the right gift for everyone on your list! Get 15% off at UNCOMMONGOODS.com/bottleserviceRitual - Get 40% off your first month at ritual.com/bottleservice.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As 2025 comes to an end, Laura and Shanna reflect on their last 12 months of parenting with honesty, humor and insight in the special segment "Year in Review." As they look back on 2025, they share their biggest laughs, unexpected wins and surprising realizations, including the hilarious thing Laura's kids taught her this year, the shocking incident that sums up the vibe of Shanna's year, their favorite shows of 2025 and more! Also, Laura reports on her family's recent trip to Hawaii, and Shanna talks about how she got her kids involved in Thanksgiving meal prep. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:Taking a family trip with kids (the good, the chaotic and the realistic expectations)Thanksgiving routines that feel doable instead of overwhelmingLetting kids help more at home, especially during the holidays, and why that matters"Mommy Magic" and making the invisible work visible for our kidsLooking back at 2025 and reflecting on what this year actually felt likeSmall parenting wins that didn't feel like a big deal at the timeThings our kids taught us this year (sometimes on purpose, sometimes not)Finding ways to have fun again as adults, not just planning fun for our kidsNavigating change, transitions and feeling pulled in a million directionsMedia, shows and pop culture that brought comfort, laughter or escapeLooking ahead to the new year with intentions about how we want to feelA vacation activity that will create a core memoryA fun board game to play with your familyProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:-Pasadena's Celebration of the Young Child-"Your Friend, Nate Bargatze" special on Netflix-Lita the dog on TikTok-Clara Batten on TikTok-Perimenopause-Baader-Meinhof phenomenon (aka Frequency Illusion)-Rainbow Baby-"Five Nights at Freddy's"-"Ordinary" by Alex Warren-"Severance"-"The Chair Company"-"The Carpool Detectives"-Snorkle Bob's-Humuhumunukunukuapua'a fish-TelestrationsPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:-Ep. 362 - (Shanna gets a concussion from a soccer ball)-Ep. 381 - (Laura hosts a booth at the Pasadena Celebration of the Young Child)-Ep. 221 - (Shanna and Laura go to a rage room) -Ep. 378 - (Laura adopts her new kitten, Pumpkin)-Ep. 355 - (Shanna tells her daughter about the Leprechaun and Santa)-Ep. 356 - (Where Shanna tells her daughter about being a "Rainbow Baby")Connect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

4/14 Billy Corben Carl Ruiz Sherrod SmallDive into a hilarious, unfiltered gem from Opie Radio's "Best and Last Year of Radio" series—this episode captures the raw, side-splitting energy of Opie's final radio run! Opie is joined in-studio by the irreplaceable Carl Ruiz (the Food Network favorite we all still miss dearly) and razor-sharp comedian Sherrod Small, while the legendary documentary filmmaker Billy Corben (director of the iconic Cocaine Cowboys series and master of wild Miami stories) calls in to add his insider edge.The laughs hit hard, It's pure, unscripted madness featuring tight friendships, celebrity insights, and comedy that doesn't pull punches.This one's extra special knowing the bond these guys shared, especially with Carl's unforgettable presence. If you're craving real radio vibes, outrageous stories, and non-stop hilarity, this episode is a must-hear—perfect for longtime fans reliving the glory or new listeners discovering why Opie Radio was legendary. Hit play and get ready to laugh until your sides hurt! (Part of the "Best and Last Year of Radio" highlights—relive the chaos today!)

Happy Sunday Pod-People!!!! Well, 2026 is knocking on the door and Grammi tells us all of what is coming up for the week for New Years Week!!! She unloads her whimsical look as only Grammi can do! It's FUN and full of LAUGHS!!! Have an AWESOME week, a Fun and Safe New Years Eve, Enjoyable New Years day and most of all, ENJOY each others company!! Grammi will be back next week to kick off the New Year!! From Grammi and The Old Man, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Later Gators!!   *Get everything you need to start your own successful podcast on Podbean here: https://www.podbean.com/tomspodcastPBFree   *Visit our webpage where you can catch up on Current / Past Episodes: www.theoldmanspodcast.com     *Contact us at: theoldmanspodcast@gmail.com     Checkout and Follow the Writings of Shonda Sinclair here: Roaming the Road (of Life):https://www.shondasinclair.com/   *TOMPodcast Music Shows: https://www.mixcloud.com/TOMPodcast/

As 2025 comes to a close, we wanted to take a moment to look back. This episode is a collection of some of our favorite moments from the Secret to Success Podcast this year — real conversations, honest questions, unexpected laughs, and truth-filled discussions that stayed with us long after the microphones were off. From relationships and communication… to mindset, reality, and self-awareness… these clips capture the heart of what S2S has always been about: growth through real talk. Whether a moment makes you laugh, reflect, or pause for a second longer than expected, our hope is that it reminds you how powerful honest conversations can be. Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of the journey with us in 2025. We're grateful for you — and excited for what's ahead.

Japan is often described as having “spirituality without religion”, but what does that actually mean? In this episode, author Hiroko Yoda joins the Krewe to break down how spirituality quietly shapes everyday life in Japan, from nature and kami to shrines, folklore, and even anime. With personal stories and insights from her new book, Eight Million Ways to Happiness, this conversation offers a fresh look at happiness rooted in connection, not belief.------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ About Hiroko Yoda ------Pre-Order Eight Million Ways to Happiness Today!Hiroko's Blog "Japan Happiness"Hiroko on InstagramHiroko on BlueSkyHiroko on X/Twitter------ Past KOJ Traditional Japan Episodes ------Japanese Tea Ceremony: A Living Tradition ft. Atsuko Mori of Camellia Tea Ceremony (S6E16)Rakugo: Comedy of a Cushion ft. Katsura Sunshine (S6E1)The Castles of Japan ft. William de Lange (S5E19)Foreign-Born Samurai: William Adams ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) (S5E17)Foreign-Born Samurai: Yasuke ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) (S5E16)The Thunderous Sounds of Taiko ft. Takumi Kato (加藤 拓三), World Champion Taiko Drummer (S5E13)The Real World of Geisha ft. Peter Macintosh (S5E7)Inside Japanese Homes & Architecture ft. Azby Brown (S5E6)Kendo: The Way of the Sword ft. Alexander Bennett, 7th Dan in Kendo (S4E16)The Life of a Sumotori ft. 3-Time Grand Champion Konishiki Yasokichi (S4E10)The Intricate Culture of Kimono ft. Rin of Mainichi Kimono (S4E7)Shamisen: Musical Sounds of Traditional Japan ft. Norm Nakamura of Tokyo Lens (S4E1)Henro SZN: Shikoku & the 88 Temple Pilgrimage ft. Todd Wassel (S3E12)Exploring Enka ft. Jerome White Jr aka ジェロ / Jero (S3E1)The Chrysanthemum Throne ft. Dr. Hiromu Nagahara [Part 2] (S2E18)The Chrysanthemum Throne ft. Dr. Hiromu Nagahara [Part 1] (S2E17)Yokai: The Hauntings of Japan ft. Hiroko Yoda & Matt Alt (S2E5)The Age of Lady Samurai ft. Tomoko Kitagawa (S1E12)Talking Sumo ft. Andrew Freud (S1E8)------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Winter Laughs & Lessons: A Hanukkah Obstacle Course Adventure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-26-23-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: ביום קר של חורף, השדה של מחנה האימונים היה מלא בשלג קל, מכוסה קישוטים של חנוכה.En: On a cold winter day, the field of the machane ha'imunim was covered in a light snow, decorated with Hanukkah ornaments.He: נעם עמד ליד מסלול המכשולים עם מבט רציני בעיניים.En: Noam stood by the obstacle course with a serious look in his eyes.He: "היום נלמד איך לעבור את המסלול בלי תקלות," אמר.En: "Today we'll learn how to get through the course without any mishaps," he said.He: תמר, לצדו, חייכה בעדינות.En: Tamar, beside him, smiled gently.He: היא אהבה לראות את החיילים החדשים מנסים לעשות כל דבר עם חיוך גדול על הפנים.En: She loved watching the new soldiers try everything with big smiles on their faces.He: "נעם, אולי נכניס קצת כיף?En: "Noam, maybe we could add a bit of fun?"He: " הציעה תמר, מקווה להכניס קצת חיים לשגרה.En: Tamar suggested, hoping to bring some life to the routine.He: החיילים מצידם, נראו כבר מוכנים לשבור את המשמעת.En: The soldiers, on their part, seemed ready to break the discipline.He: בכל פעם שנעם הסביר איך לעבור את הקרש המאונך או הקפיצה מעל הבורות, אחד מהחיילים היה מחליק ומפיל את כולם לצחוק מתגלגל.En: Every time Noam explained how to get over the vertical plank or the jump over the pits, one of the soldiers would slip, sending everyone into a fit of laughter.He: נעם ניסה לשמור על רצינות.En: Noam tried to maintain seriousness.He: הוא המציא חוקים חדשים, "אסור להחליק על הבור!En: He invented new rules, "No slipping on the pit!"He: " הכריז, אבל התוצאה הייתה הפוכה.En: he announced, but the result was the opposite.He: כל ניסיון להקשיח את הכללים רק גרם לעוד יותר החלקות וצחוק.En: Every attempt to tighten the rules only led to more slipping and laughter.He: תמר, שלא הפסיקה לחייך, הציעה דרך אחרת, "בואו נעשה תחרות, המנצחים יקבלו סופגניות.En: Tamar, who hadn't stopped smiling, suggested another way, "Let's have a competition; the winners will get sufganiyot."He: " האווירה השתנתה מיד.En: The atmosphere immediately changed.He: החיילים החלו להתאמץ, אך מי שהחליק, קיבל סופגניה כפרס על הבידור שסיפק.En: The soldiers began to put in effort, but anyone who slipped received a sufganiya as a reward for the entertainment they provided.He: ואז קרה הרגע שכל המחנה חיכה לו.En: Then the moment everyone in the camp had been waiting for happened.He: נעם עצמו החליק על סופגניה שנראתה תמימה בעלת פני שלג, ונחת ישר לתוך ערמת לביבות שזה עתה טוגנו.En: Noam himself slipped on a sufganiya that looked innocently like a snow face and landed straight into a heap of freshly fried levivot.He: החיילים פרצו בצחוק חזק יותר מתמיד, וגם נעם לא יכול היה להתאפק ולפתוח בצחוק.En: The soldiers burst into louder laughter than ever, and even Noam couldn't hold back, joining in the laughter.He: לבסוף, נעם הבין שמשהו חשוב קרה.En: Finally, Noam realized something important had happened.He: לפעמים, הצחוק הוא כלי האימון הטוב ביותר.En: Sometimes, laughter is the best training tool.He: "אולי כדאי שנרגיש את רוח החג," הוא אמר בחיוך רחב.En: "Maybe we should embrace the holiday spirit," he said with a broad smile.He: תמר והחיילים הפכו את יום האימונים ליום חג חנוכה.En: Tamar and the soldiers turned the training day into a Hanukkah celebration.He: בזמן שהסופגניות הוגשו והלביבות התקררו, הם רצו יחד במסלול, והצחוק לא חדל.En: As the sufganiyot were served and the levivot cooled, they ran through the course together, and the laughter didn't stop.He: כך, בין נפילה קלילה אחת לשנייה, הבין נעם שהמשמעת והלימוד באים גם בצחוק, ותמר הבינה שהיא יכולה לשלב כיף וערך יחד.En: Thus, between one lighthearted fall and another, Noam realized that discipline and learning also come with laughter, and Tamar understood she could combine fun and value together.He: נס החנוכה כבר היה כאן, לא רק במבחן, אלא גם בלב של כולם.En: The ness Hanukkah was already there, not just in the test, but also in everyone's hearts. Vocabulary Words:ornaments: קישוטיםmishaps: תקלותobstacle: מכשוליםvertical: מאונךpits: בורותseriousness: רצינותatmosphere: אווירהcompetition: תחרותreward: פרסentertainment: בידורinnocently: תמימהcelebration: חגdiscipline: משמעתembrace: להרגישspirits: רוחheap: ערמהcool: להתקררrealized: הביןattempt: ניסיוןtraining: אימוןlighthearted: קלילהcombine: לשלבeffort: להתאמץlaughter: צחוקtogether: יחדslipping: להחליקbroad: רחבtighten: להקשיחserved: הוגשוvalue: ערךBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

“Santa can't come down the chimney if you're tight - am I right!?”MERRY CHRISTMAS, you beautiful, chaotic bunch! It's the 25th of December, and Laura and Carmen are still grafting their way through The 12 Laughs of Christmas - because joy doesn't clock off for bank holidays.Today, they're unwrapping one of the most ICONIC moments of the year… honestly, maybe even the century. Yes, we're talking about the time Coldplay's Chris Martin accidentally exposed Astronomer CEO Andy Byron getting extra festive with his HR staffer on the Kiss Cam at a Boston gig. The moral of the story? If you're playing away, maybe don't do it in 4K on a stadium screen the size of a small planet.Plus, Laura and Carmen debate the greatest Christmas bangers, the ultimate cheese board essentials, and what Christmas morning really looks like in their houses - including a deeply suspicious 9am boiled ham. And of course… presents. Because nothing says Christmas quite like unwrapping something you'll politely pretend to love for the sake of social harmony.Email us your ‘Shouldn't Laugh But...' Moments! lauraandcarmen@global.comFollow Shouldn't Laugh But on all social platforms: @shouldntlaughpodLaura - @thatlaurasmythCarmen - @carmenshouldntlaugh

Season 7, Episode 15 opens with a winter-weather whiplash and a running joke about whether this is the Patrick Mahomes episode or the Thurman Munson episode, before Dan, Frank, Alan, and Rich settle into a packed sports menu.The crew congratulates Frank's Knicks for winning the NBA's in-season tournament—then immediately debates why most fans still don't care, even with proposals to move future tournament games into iconic college arenas to boost energy and attendance. From there, it's Hot Stove League time: more Mets head-scratching as New York continues to reshape the roster and pulls in more Yankees bullpen pieces, while the Yankees field trade chatter around Jazz Chisholm. The group also highlights a notable three-team trade involving the Rays, Pirates, and Orioles, and shares genuine excitement for a stronger, star-studded World Baseball Classic lineup.Then the show pivots to a detailed Week 15 NFL recap, including:Bills over Patriots (35–31) after a 21–0 hole, with Dan cashing a successful lone wolf on New England.Ravens shutting out the Bengals (24–0), sparking a blunt debate about Joe Burrow's tone, injuries, roster spending, and accountability.Jaguars crushing the Jets (48–20) with Trevor Lawrence lighting it up.Chargers over Chiefs as Kansas City's season collapses and Mahomes goes down, with Rich nailing another lone wolf.Texans rolling the Cardinals (40–20) and a discussion on whether Houston is a real threat or just smoke and mirrors.Bears dominating the Browns (31–3) as Chicago keeps surprising.Commanders over Giants (29–21) with Rich lone-wolfing Washington and a Giants-focused breakdown on how they're handling Jackson Dart.Eagles blanking the Raiders (31–0), followed by a classic “it's the Raiders” reality check.Seahawks edging the Colts (18–16) and the ongoing debate about whether Seattle's formula is sustainable when “Bad Darnold” eventually shows up.Broncos beating the Packers (34–26) as Denver continues to look like the real deal.49ers handling the Titans (37–24) and the NFC West shaping up as a playoff gauntlet.Saints slipping past the Panthers (20–17) and skepticism about the NFC South ceiling.Rams outgunning the Lions (41–34) with the crew split on whether Detroit is in trouble and whether the Rams are still the class of the NFC.Vikings over Cowboys (34–26) as Dallas moves the ball but can't finish drives, and even reliable kicking goes sideways.The episode closes with Fox Brothers Alarms, the quiet inbox, and the usual mix of sharp takes, running jokes, and “how did that game get away from them?” moments.Special Thanks to:Fox Brothers Alarms - https://foxbrothersalarms.comFirst Baptist church of Phillipsburg NJ http://www.fbcpburg.org/

Kick back and get ready to dive into a juicy conversation about the wild world of hiring contractors, with Eric G and John Dudley leading the charge. These two seasoned pros dish out everything you need to know about navigating the often murky waters of contractor hiring. Think of it as your personal guide to avoiding all the potential pitfalls—like hiring that one guy who thinks he can fix your leaky roof with duct tape and a prayer. We'll cover the essentials: how to find a contractor who doesn't vanish like a magician, the red flags to watch out for, and the magical world of contracts that might as well be written in ancient hieroglyphics. Spoiler alert: it's not just about price; it's about finding someone who you can trust to not turn your home into a construction site version of a horror movie. Eric and John's banter will keep you entertained while they drop some serious knowledge. Stick around, because the second half of the show takes a sharp turn into the realm of radon with expert Dallas Jones. We're talking about that sneaky little gas that you can't see or smell but could be lurking in your home like an unwanted guest. Dallas breaks down the science behind radon, why it's suddenly the hot topic in home safety, and what you can actually do about it. You'll leave with a clearer picture of why testing is crucial, how mitigation systems work, and why ignoring radon could be the biggest mistake you make this year. So grab your headphones and get ready to transform your home improvement knowledge from zero to hero!Takeaways:Hiring contractors can be a wild rollercoaster ride, so buckle up and be prepared for some unexpected twists and turns in the process.Don't just assume your radon mitigation system is working forever; regular checks are like checking if your ex is still stalking you – necessary and potentially life-saving!If you're in the trades, you're probably earning more than your college-educated friends who are still trying to figure out what they want to do with their lives.Having a solid understanding of radon and its implications can save lives, so don't wait for your home inspector to remind you – take charge of your family's safety today!Schools are failing to prep kids for the trades, leaving them to drown in student debt while Starbucks is hiring; it's time to rethink the education system's priorities.The conversation about radon is crucial, not just for homeowners but for everyone, so let's stop sweeping it under the rug like that one pile of laundry we all pretend doesn't exist.Links referenced in this episode:aroundthehouseonline.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:Paramount PlusHGTVMTVEagle Hardware and GardenThanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at

Survivor New Era Winner Rankings Today, Rob Cesternino, Mike Bloom, and Shannon Guss rank the Survivor New Era winners! On this Survivor-packed episode of “Rob Has a Podcast,” Rob Cesternino welcomes Shannon Gus and Mike Bloom for the ultimate Survivor New Era winner rankings. The panel attempts the impossible: ranking the winners from Survivor seasons 41-49. With wit and deep Survivor knowledge, they navigate a daunting list where every name holds a million-dollar title, and every ranking is sure to spark discussion. Along the way, they open up about their own criteria and biases—what's more important, the social game or physical dominance? Big moves or flawless consistency? The conversation is both meticulous and subjective, as the panel highlights the strengths, weaknesses, and surprising moments that defined each winner's game. The panel discuss: – Individual winner analyses, from Gabler's undercover triumph to D's all-around dominance – Lively discussion about what truly makes a great Survivor winner – Audience insights, with over 5,000 fan votes counted for the final, “unimpeachable” ranking – Laughs, a touch of controversy, and an honest look at what it means to win Survivor in the New Era For superfans, casual viewers, and anyone who loves a good debate, this episode is Survivor coverage at its finest. To pre-order Rob’s book, The Tribe and I Have Spoken, visit www.robhasabook.com Never miss a minute of RHAP's extensive Survivor coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Survivor podcast feed WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Survivor New Era Winner Rankings Today, Rob Cesternino, Mike Bloom, and Shannon Guss rank the Survivor New Era winners! On this Survivor-packed episode of “Rob Has a Podcast,” Rob Cesternino welcomes Shannon Gus and Mike Bloom for the ultimate Survivor New Era winner rankings. The panel attempts the impossible: ranking the winners from Survivor seasons 41-49. With wit and deep Survivor knowledge, they navigate a daunting list where every name holds a million-dollar title, and every ranking is sure to spark discussion. Along the way, they open up about their own criteria and biases—what's more important, the social game or physical dominance? Big moves or flawless consistency? The conversation is both meticulous and subjective, as the panel highlights the strengths, weaknesses, and surprising moments that defined each winner's game. The panel discuss: – Individual winner analyses, from Gabler's undercover triumph to D's all-around dominance – Lively discussion about what truly makes a great Survivor winner – Audience insights, with over 5,000 fan votes counted for the final, “unimpeachable” ranking – Laughs, a touch of controversy, and an honest look at what it means to win Survivor in the New Era For superfans, casual viewers, and anyone who loves a good debate, this episode is Survivor coverage at its finest. To pre-order Rob’s book, The Tribe and I Have Spoken, visit www.robhasabook.com Never miss a minute of RHAP's extensive Survivor coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Survivor podcast feed WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

In this comedy special, The World takes you around the globe where artists find humor in unconventional places. Chinese-language open mic events become a place for activists to meet, get  group therapy and share pointed views on life back home in China. Also, Syrian comedians embrace a new era in which social critiques are no longer shunned. And, a Ukrainian comic uses comedy as a way to process war. Plus, a linguistic look at why some words sounds funny. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Hapy Hanukah, Merry Christmas and a Joyous Festivus to the Rest of Us, Dear Listener. We're serving up this special silliness with just you mind. So plug in, press play and let the nonsense of the moment drift for a bit. We couldn't be prouder to share this with you. SWEAR. 

Mark called about Elise saying she's classy, funny, and full of laughs. They bonded over favorite movies, swapped quotes, and even dreamed about escaping the work grind with a weekend getaway. Sparks were definitely flying so why did she ghost?

Episode 99To close out the year, we're sharing a fun blooper episode filled with behind-the-scenes moments, laughs, and reminders that even faith-filled conversations don't always go as planned—and that joy belongs in our walk with Jesus too.

A Year of Biotech Bytes: Reflections, Stories, and Honest Moments#biotechbytes #biotechpodcast #behindthemicThis episode is a look back at the year, the lessons we learned, and the moments that shaped Biotech Bytes. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/I'm joined by Mary Louise Smith, the voice, support, and good energy behind every episode. She's the person many listeners never see, yet she's a major part of why this podcast runs the way it does. We talk about how Biotech Bytes really started, why simple conversations often lead to the best ideas, and how AI can help us focus on the work that matters most. Mary also shares what leadership looks like behind the scenes and a few personal stories that shaped our year, including our shared love for chocolate.If you've listened this year, thank you for being part of this community. Let us know what topics or guests you want to hear in the new year.Links from this episode:Get to know more about Bill Wallace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamwallace2Learn more about Intercept Pharmaceuticals:https://www.interceptpharma.com

Send us a textOn this episode of Outta Pocket With RGIII, we're joined by the one and only Jay Pharoah. We dive into Jay's most legendary impressions, including his spot-on Barack Obama and the work that goes into mastering voices at an elite level. Jay also opens up about being a hardcore Los Angeles Rams fan, navigating the highs and lows of fandom, and how people have to his insanely accurate impressions. Laughs, real talk, and classic Outta Pocket energy all in one episode.00:00 - Intro03:44 - Opening Drive: Jay's Iconic Obama Impression06:05 - Leaving SNL10:33 - How Jay Realized He Was Good at Impressions14:23 - Hot Seat: Answering as Different Celebs and Athletes28:33 - Being an NFL Commissioner and Philip Rivers Return?39:19 - Viral Spiral: Shedeur Sanders and 50 Cent's Netflix Docuseries About Diddy46:28 - Outro

Happy Sunday Pod-People!!!! Well, Christmas is upon us and Grammi tells us all of what is coming up for the week leading up to Christmas! She unloads her whimsical look as only Grammi can do! It's FUN and full of LAUGHS!!! Have an AWESOME week, a Wonderful and Merry Christmas and most of all, ENJOY each others company!! Grammi will be back next week as we head toward the New Year, 2026!! From Grammi and The Old Man: MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! Later Gators!!   *Get everything you need to start your own successful podcast on Podbean here: https://www.podbean.com/tomspodcastPBFree   *Visit our webpage where you can catch up on Current / Past Episodes: www.theoldmanspodcast.com     *Contact us at: theoldmanspodcast@gmail.com     Checkout and Follow the Writings of Shonda Sinclair here: Roaming the Road (of Life):https://www.shondasinclair.com/   *TOMPodcast Music Shows: https://www.mixcloud.com/TOMPodcast/

Choice Classic Radio presents The Mysterious Traveler, which aired from 1943 to 1952. Today we bring to you the episode titled "Death Laughs Last.”  Please consider supporting our show by becoming a patron at http://choiceclassicradio.com We hope you enjoy the show!

Stand-up comedian Ben Roy is also an actor, writer, podcaster, and musician. He began his career in Denver, developing his stand-up at Comedy Works, and has since appeared at festivals including Just for Laughs, the New York Comedy Festival, and South by Southwest. His television credits include HBO's Funny as Hell and Comedy Central's Adam DeVine's House Party, Corporate, @midnight, and This Is Not Happening. Ben is a co-creator, writer, and star of the truTV series Those Who Can't, which ran for three seasons. He hosts the podcasts 97.9 The Rat Race on the All Things Comedy network and The Grawlix Saves the World. In addition to comedy, Ben is a musician and serves as the lead singer of the pop-punk band SPELLS.

In this engaging episode, Ashley Arpel Steinback welcomes Brad Lowe, the creator of "The Hopecast Network," to her podcast.They dive into a lively conversation about their personal and professional journeys, the ups and downs of comedy, and the importance of friendship and support in the entertainment industry.Brad shares insights into his network's mission to uplift and inspire, while Ashley reflects on her growth as a comedian and the valuable lessons learned along the way.Follow the show here:https://www.instagram.com/loxoflaughspodcast/https://www.instagram.com/thatsashleyskitchen/

In Part 2 of our Chapter 2 Recap, the party takes a breath (finally) to reflect on the chaos of Guldrege. From favorite fights to funniest failures, emotional turning points to MVP-worthy moments, the group looks back on what changed, what scarred, and what still lingers in the minds of their characters. Expect revelations, inside jokes, and just enough foreshadowing to keep you guessing.

0:00 - Yesterday's Avs win in Seattle was uncommon for a couple different reasons. First of all, they had to battle back from a deficit (which usually doesn't happen to this squad). Second of all, they scored a power play goal! It happened! What did Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar think of his squad's thrilling win over the Kraken?17:51 - Have you ever laughed yourself to tears at a joke YOU made? Ryker certainly did on the Avalanche broadcast last night.Next, we have so many good soundbites to get through! Let's CHOP IT UP!33:49 - Tua Turndaballova has officially been benched by the Miami Dolphins. Quinn Ewers will be the starter for the remained of the season. Man...what do the Dolphins do with that contract?After that, Kenny Dillingham claims he's staying at ASU. But now that the Michigan job is wide open...will he have a change of heart?

Leadership demands grit, clarity and conviction. SUMMARY On Long Blue Leadership, Congressman August Pfluger '00 reflects on these qualities through his experiences at the U.S. Air Force Academy, in the cockpit and as part of the U.S. House of Representatives. His story challenges every leader to ask where courage is calling them to go next. SHARE THIS PODCAST LINKEDIN  |  FACEBOOK    CONGRESSMAN PFLUGER'S TOP 10 LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS Courageous career leaps require conviction, timing and faith. Pfluger left active duty at 19 years and four months — a highly unconventional choice — demonstrating that major pivots sometimes require stepping into uncertainty. Work ethic is a lifelong differentiator. He emphasizes that he has never been “the best,” but has always been willing to outwork anyone. Hard work + grit consistently opened doors. Failure and setbacks shape long-term success. Missed opportunities at USAFA and earlier career disappointments taught him timing, resilience and long-term perspective. Leadership is transferable across domains. His fighter pilot and command experience directly enabled his political success — planning, debrief culture and thick skin all mapped over perfectly. Credibility requires deep study and prioritization. You cannot master everything; leaders must choose focus areas and know them cold so others trust their expertise. Humility, credibility and approachability are foundational leadership traits. These principles translate powerfully to Congress and team leadership. Family and faith must anchor leadership. His family's summer crisis reframed his priorities: “None of this matters if you don't take care of your family.” The nation needs more military and Academy graduates in public leadership. He stresses that only four USAFA grads have ever served in Congress — and more are needed to restore civility and mission-focused service. The U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force are under-resourced relative to global threats. Pfluger advocates vigorously for rebalancing defense spending to meet modern challenges. Self-reflection is critical to growth. Leaders must ask: How do I see myself? How do others see me? If those don't align, adjust the work ethic, mindset or behaviors accordingly.   CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction & Biography 01:44 — Opening Remarks 01:47 — Leaving Active Duty at 19 Years and 4 Months 04:06 — Why Run for Office? 05:40 — Family, Faith & Influences 07:14 — Representing His Hometown District 08:29 — Learning to Represent a District 11:07 — Work Ethic and USAFA Foundations 12:22 — Failure, Setbacks & Long-Term Rewards 15:10 — Unexpected Assignments Becoming Career High Points 17:24 — Pentagon, Fellowship & NSC 19:49 — USAFA Grads in Congress 21:03 — Role of the Board of Visitors 23:24 — Key Focus Areas for the Board of Visitors 25:11 — Top National Security Challenges 27:13 — Balancing Congress, Leadership, and Family 29:01 — Leadership Style & Decision-Making 30:40 — Humble, Credible, Approachable 33:38 — Building Credibility as a Younger Leader 34:43 — What's Next: A More United Country 37:29 — Daily Habits for Growth 39:37 — Advice for Emerging Leaders 41:24 — Final Reflections & Call to Action 43:45 — Closing Thoughts & Outro   ABOUT CONGRESSMAN PFLUGER BIO U.S. Rep. August Pfluger '00 is serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He represents 20 counties in Texas' 11th Congressional District. After graduating from the U.S Air Force Academy, he served in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve for 25 years as an F-22 and F-15 pilot with over 300 combat hours. In Congress, he is chairman of the Republican Study Committee, the largest caucus on Capitol Hill. He is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. CONNECT WITH THE CONGRESSMAN LINKEDIN HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES   CONNECT WITH THE LONG BLUE LINE PODCAST NETWORK TEAM Ted Robertson | Producer and Editor:  Ted.Robertson@USAFA.org Send your feedback or nominate a guest: socialmedia@usafa.org   Ryan Hall | Director:  Ryan.Hall@USAFA.org  Bryan Grossman | Copy Editor:  Bryan.Grossman@USAFA.org Wyatt Hornsby | Executive Producer:  Wyatt.Hornsby@USAFA.org      ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS     FULL TRANSCRIPT OUR SPEAKERS Guest, Rep. August Pfluger '00  |  Host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99   Naviere Walkewicz 0:00 Welcome to Long Blue Leadership, the podcast where we share insights on leadership through the lives and experiences of Air Force Academy graduates. I'm Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99. In this edition of Long Blue Leadership, we're honored to welcome a distinguished leader whose career spans military service, national security and public office, Congressman August Pfluger is a proud graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Class of 2000, and currently represents the 11th Congressional District of Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives. Before entering Congress, Congressman Pfluger served for nearly two decades in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of colonel. He is currently a member of the Air Force Reserve as an F-15 and F-22 fighter pilot. He logged over 300 combat hours in defense of our nation. He has also served as a member of the National Security Council, bringing strategic insight to some of the most complex global threats we face today. Since taking office in 2021 Congressman Pfluger has remained deeply committed to strengthening our national defense. He currently serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Homeland Security Committee to critical platforms from which he continues to represent and lead. He is the chairman of the Republican Study Committee and serves as the chairman of the Air Force Academy's Board of Visitors, appointed to the BOV by the speaker of the house in 2023 and elected by his colleagues to serve as chair. Whether in the halls of Congress or in the cockpit, Congressman Pfluger's career has been defined by a steadfast commitment to courageous service and leadership. Congressman Pfluger, welcome to Long Blue Leadership. Rep. August Pfluger 1:44 Thank you, Naviere. It's honor to be here with you.   Naviere Walkewicz 1:47 Well, we are so glad to have you. And there's something that I want to jump right into, because it really occurred to me how odd this is, but you served for nearly two decades, and when I say nearly two decades in the Air Force, 19 years and four months, and then you pulled the plug, you didn't go to retirement right then. Can we talk about that a little bit? Rep. August Pfluger 2:09 Well, this is not something that most financial advisers would advise you of doing. And I'll tell you, this was a journey in faith, because at almost 20 years. September of 2019, we made a decision, my wife and I made a decision to run for Congress, which meant that we got out of the active duty, joined the Reserve, and started a campaign, something that just a month prior, we had absolutely no intention of doing, and had not even talked about doing. Running for office was something that was always of interest, but certainly not at 19 years and four months. So the opportunity came up, had a couple of phone calls from friends and family to say that the representative who represented my hometown and where I grew up was retiring after 16 years, and a lot of factors. And I'll really take you down this faith journey, a lot of factors happened that we couldn't ignore. And we literally moved back to my hometown of San Angelo that I had not lived in for over 20 years, and started a campaign, which, as you can imagine, was, I mean, it took a lot of courage for my wife, from my family, three little girls, who we uprooted and went through this. But I'm so glad that we did it. But it wasn't without, you know, I can say anxiety and just, you know, the fear, the unknown maybe, and not knowing exactly what would happen. So when you say and use the words, we burned the ships. That was the moment in time that we literally burned the ships and ran a campaign with every piece of our heart and soul. Naviere Walkewicz 3:48 Wow. Well, let's talk about that a little bit, because, you know, we have listeners that make these pivotal moments in their careers. They make these decisions that really shaped them. What was it about that time, other than the incumbent was going to retire. Like, why you? Why then, you know? Let's talk about that a little bit more. Rep. August Pfluger 4:06 Well, this is pre-Covid. And the thought of running for office always sounds good. You know, if you have that interest, you're like, “OK, that'd be great.” Well, then when you kind of get down to the brass tax that you're going to have to put in 14- to 16-hour days and learn how to talk to people about what's important in this district that then it kind of changes things. But honestly, there were signs and things that pointed me and my wife in this direction that we couldn't ignore. And when you look at this type of district, I mean, it's really, in the past 100 years, there's only been about six representatives. So it's not one of those things you say, “Well, maybe we'll wait for next time.” The opportunity was there, there was a window of time. It was about 30 days where we had to make a decision to literally move from northern Virginia back to Texas and start a whole new career. And ended doing so forego the pension for what would now be five or six years, because I've had to work as a reservist to, you know, kind of get back to that point. So there was a financial piece to it. There was a career that was, was going very well that, you know, maybe, are we giving that up? And what happens if we don't win? And then, you know, all these unknowns. So I will say it was, it was definitely the biggest professional decision that I've ever made in my career. Naviere Walkewicz 5:40 So you talked about some of your family members — you had phone calls. It sounds like, your faith and your family are a big part of your decision making. And, when you go forward with things, I think you've talked about your grandfather having been someone that inspired you to go into the Air Force. You know, who are those key players in your family that have really inspired you in your big leadership decisions. Rep. August Pfluger 6:02 Yes, you're right. I had two grandfathers that served in World War II. One was a pilot, and that that led me to make the first decision to go to the Air Force Academy. And that stayed with me. We had nobody in my family who was in politics. I mean, not a single person. In fact, a lot of my family, I had several great uncles and different family members that I'm close to, and they said, “What?” Like, ”What are — you sure you want to do this? And why? Don't you have a really good Air Force career and you've been able to, you know, rise in the ranks and all the things that you've tried to do?” But I honestly — it was kind of a word of wisdom to say, “If you're going to do this, have some good reasons.” Like, “Why do you want to do this?” And the district that I get to represent in my hometown, we have military bases, agriculture and energy, and I love all three of those things. And I think of those as national security-level entities that really dovetail very nicely with my first part of my professional career. Naviere Walkewicz 7:14 That makes sense. So it really was an extension — this new path in your journey was really an extension of what you had done in uniform and active duty and now being able to give it back to your hometown district and the patrons in there as well. Rep. August Pfluger 7:30 Absolutely. And in the campaign I talked about how important it was to be able to provide our own food. We have a lot of cattle ranchers there that are in my district, that you don't want to be dependent on some other country, especially an adversarial country, for your food needs. And the same thing for energy production: that you can't be dependent for energy needs on your adversaries. So those were things that I was able to really talk about, and I mean, oh my gosh, after I actually was elected and got into office, I mean, they became front and center and still are of that discussion. And I think that was the really interesting piece about having been deployed. We were stationed all over the world, almost seven years outside of the United States, on three different continents, and to be able to tie it together and kind of bring that back home and communicate why this place where I grew up and now where I live and where I represent is so important to our national security? Naviere Walkewicz 8:29 Well, you talked a little bit about earlier, about you weren't sure if you were going to get elected, and then when you did, you had to go out and talk to people and really understand the challenges. What is that journey like when it's completely new, right? It's not the same. It's you're not getting into a cockpit. You're not an instructor pilot now. Now you are — you're representing all of them. How do you how do you approach that new path? Because I think that's something when our leaders take this leap of faith and they're looking at, well, how do I approach it? It's completely different from anything I've done. I think they'd like to know how you did it so well. Rep. August Pfluger 8:59 Well, thanks for the question. It was a huge challenge in being a squadron commander, having been an instructor pilot or a mission commander, and having led in actual combat, that that was everything. I mean, I didn't know anything about politics, but what I did know was how to map out a plan and how to put the pieces and parts together. And I knew that nobody was going to outwork me. I mean, come on, you know, when you have a SAMI on Saturday morning, you got to wake up and make your bed and do all the things to get that weekend pass. I mean, you're going to work hard. And so I knew that I had a competitive advantage on the work ethic and the ability to plan and so really, the thing that I realize now, now six years later, is that I think people — what they really appreciated was that I wasn't a career politician, that the things that I was saying and campaigning on were like true passions, and they weren't empty promises. I told them this is what I'm going to do, and I'm proud to report I've done every single one of those things that I told them that I would do, and it's because we were instructed so well, both at school and then as members of the active-duty Air Force about how to follow through and be persistent and just carry through with what you said you're going to do. I mean, integrity is a big piece of this, but I will tell you also that now staying in touch after being elected, elected, I travel throughout these 20 counties all the time, and you have to have some thick skin, because you're going to get some feedback from people that is not always flattering, and they're going to ask you, “Well, why did you vote this way, or what happened here, and why are you not doing this? And this is expensive.” And, I mean, so you have to be willing to take that feedback, which, by the way, sitting in a fighter pilot debrief — I mean, that was the perfect training for having thick skin, to understand that what people are trying to tell you: Is it critical? Without substance? That you really need to listen to them and try to solve these problems? Naviere Walkewicz 11:07 So earlier, you had talked about, I think there are these things that you did at the Academy. No one is going to outwork you have. You always been that type of person, someone that, you know, just kind of works really hard. Or is that something that you kind of developed at the Academy. Rep. August Pfluger 11:21 I developed it at the Academy. But I would say I came in with a with a good work ethic and then was challenged by our classmates, who are amazing, you know? It's like, “Oh my gosh, I'm really not that smart and not that fast and not that… you know, whatever,” because you see all these amazing people. But yes, work ethic was, I mean, I look at it now, having administered how many nominations to service academies? I mean, dozens and dozens of kids that I've gotten a chance to work with over the past five years who are absolutely incredible. I'm like, I don't know if I could get in at this point in time, because they're just incredible. And I had to work very hard at everything I ever did, everything I ever achieved, was because of hard work. It wasn't because I was the best. It was because I just, at the end of the day, worked very hard to get it. I think that's something that's a lesson that we learned during four years at the Academy, but it served me very well in this profession. Naviere Walkewicz 12:22 Was there a particular time at the Academy where you worked really hard and it didn't go your way? And, you know, how did you overcome that? Because I think sometimes the outcome is, “If I if I give it all and I work really hard, I'm going to get to where I want to go.” And if that wasn't the case, how did that actually change the trajectory or shape you? Rep. August Pfluger 12:42 There were multiple times at the Academy that you work hard for something. I mean, I came in as a recruited athlete, had some injuries, and so didn't get a chance to finish all four years that that was hard to go through that process, and it just didn't work out. And or you're just not good enough. And then that was the case too for me, on the football team. But they're just better people, which is awesome and that, but that shaped who I am now, because it is not just about how hard you work. That's a huge piece of it. But you also have to have good timing. You have to have some luck. You have to be in the right place and have been brought up by the right people. And when the when the opportunity strikes you, you've got to be able to take advantage of that timing to do that. And that those lessons — I absolutely remember that there was one instance where I really, really wanted to go to do this exchange program in Egypt, and they were going to bring some of the political science department over there. Well, apparently my grades were not in the right area to be selected for this program. I think I was an alternate or something, unless that's good, that's — it's not nothing. But I was very disappointed, because I thought I worked hard, you know, maybe not hard enough on the grades, but had worked hard to be a part of the conversation, to go. Well, didn't get a chance to do it. So always had that in the back of my mind. Well, I went to Egypt, but it was as a congressman. I led a congressional delegation of six or seven members. We met with the president of Egypt and had very serious conversations about the negotiation for what Gaza has now with the peace deal that we have gotten to and had a, you know, went to the president's palace, got to sit down right next to him and talk to him for over an hour. So I always kept that in the back of my mind that I was going to Egypt one day. Naviere Walkewicz 14:37 That's right. And honestly, you worked really, really hard. You didn't get there, but it kept you — kept that fire going, because you knew at some point you're going to, so it did end up working out, in that case, for sure. You know, one of the things that I find really interesting and fascinating about you is, as you talk about these different experiences you've had, you said they've shaped you. And when you're in the military, can you share a time when you maybe we're in a position that it wasn't what you'd hoped for. You thought it was going to be, but you found it to be incredibly rewarding. Was there anything in that kind of space that happened to you? Rep. August Pfluger 15:10 Yes, several times. You know you want things, you think you want things, and then it doesn't work out. You don't get selected. And always in the back of my mind, every young lieutenant wants to be a weapons officer wants to then be a squadron commander of a fighter squadron, and that's just the competitive side of this. And I was no different when it came time to select who the next squadron commanders were going to be. I'll never forget: My operations group commander came to be and he said, “Well, we got a problem. We have six really talented lieutenant colonels. You're all promoted below the zone, and we have four squadrons, so we're going to have to figure out a Plan B for a couple of you, and I've got something in mind for you.” He said, “I think that you should go be a deployed squadron, commander of an OSS, an operational support squadron.” He said, “We've got a war going on, a conflict with ISIS, and you'd be great.” Well, that's not exactly an easy conversation to go home and to tell your spouse: “Oh, I just got told that I was going to deploy. I'm not going to be a fighter squadron commander here. I'm going to go somewhere else, and I'll be gone a year.” So that was hard, but oh my goodness, what an experience professionally. Obviously, I missed my family, but this was the height of the conflict against ISIS. I had hundreds of people that I got a chance to work with, command, flying combat missions, doing something that mattered, working with our international partners. You know, we were on an Emirati base, and so I worked with the Emiratis on a daily basis, because we had almost 20 different weapon systems, 20 different aircraft there and it was the highlight of my professional career. So God had a plan. It worked out much better than I could have ever engineered, and it turned out — minus the fact that I had to be gone for a year; obviously, nobody likes that — but it turned out to be the best professional year of my Air Force career. Naviere Walkewicz 17:13 I find that really interesting because that — so would that have been the last kind of position you held before going into the move for Congress? Is that correct? Rep. August Pfluger 17:24 You know, actually, I came back — was PCSed to the Pentagon, worked for the chief of staff of the Air Force, General Goldfein, OK, went to a year of War College equivalent in D.C., a fellowship program, and then was assigned to the White House, to the National Security Council, for just about two and a half months before we made — three months before we made the decision to run for Congress. Naviere Walkewicz 17:49 So just a couple things happened after that. [Laughs]. What an amazing run, and the amazing leaders that you got to work with. So was that experience that when you were deployed as a squadron commander and then coming back, did that help shape your thoughts specifically to the Congress role, because you talked about the very three important things, right? Energy, you know, national security and there was one more… and agriculture. Thank you. And so, you know, did that all kind of get settled in when you were in that transition piece from, you know, squadron commander, to your time at the Pentagon in the White House area. Rep. August Pfluger 18:26 Absolutely, I had a year as a deployed squadron commander, came back and worked a year at the Pentagon, which I didn't know how lucky that was. Most people get there two or three years, but work directly for the chief of staff. Heard all of the conversations between Gen. Goldfein and Secretary Heather Wilson and then had a year where I studied at a think tank on Middle East policy. It could not have been a better education with a little bit of time in the White House to prepare me to run for Congress. You look back on that, you go, “Oh, so that's why.” “Oh, these steps were to prepare for this job now,” which I mean, just the fact that, as a member of Congress, I've probably met with 10 or 15 heads of states, one on one, presidents from different countries around the world, and to have that education, to be able to speak intelligently, at least somewhat intelligently, on these issues. Took that the steps that I just went through right there. Naviere Walkewicz 19:31 And you know, something that I think is really interesting to what you just said, working with Gen. Goldfein and with Secretary Wilson, you know, there are so few Academy graduates that have had the opportunities to serve in Congress and to be in the role that you are. How many Academy, Air Force Academy grads we have now have that have done this? Rep. August Pfluger 19:49 There's two currently serving, myself and Don Davis, opposite sides of the aisle, but great friends, and there were only two prior, so there's only been four. And the first two were Heather Wilson was the first Martha McSally, I'll never forget when I got elected. Heather Wilson called me and she said, “Congratulations, you're finally keeping up with us ladies.” And I thought it was great. But you know, we need more graduates, honestly. And I don't care who's listening to this, what side of the aisle you're on, we need more air force academy graduates. There are nine West Pointers currently serving, and seven from Annapolis currently serving, and we've only had four total. Naviere Walkewicz 20:30 All right, it's out there now. We've got our, you know, got our calling. So here we go. You know, I want to ask you a question about, you know, being in Congress, you are on several committees, and you're in leading roles in them. Let's talk a little bit. First about, if you don't mind, I'd like to talk about the Board of Visitors, because I think it's a great opportunity for our graduates to understand actually what the Board of Visitors actually does. So if you don't mind, kind of sharing in your words, you know what your priorities are with the Board of Visitors and what that looks like. I think it'd be really helpful in educating our listeners. Rep. August Pfluger 21:03 Well. Thank you. It's an honor to be on the Board of Visitors. It's statutorily set up by Congress decades ago, and it basically provides an avenue of oversight, something that is appointed both legislatively, by the speaker of the house and by the Senate majority leader and also the president. And, you know, we've got a number of several grads, but a number of senators and congressmen. And, you know, again, one of these timing things that I didn't necessarily intend to run for the chairmanship, but we needed, I think, a graduate to do that, and am proud to be the chairman of this group. You know, Charlie Kirk was on this board, and what a tragic situation that was. We've got a number of really passionate leaders, and our job really is to interact with the institution, to ask questions and to report back directly to the Secretary of War and into the Secretary of the Air Force on the health and welfare of the institution, on any other issues that we think are important. And for me, kind of the driving principle is that I love this institution, the leadership lessons that I learned there and those that I hear from so many graduates are important well beyond military service. They're important for the rest of a graduate's life. And I want to make sure that everything that is going on there, the resources that are needed there, the schedule and the curriculum and the ability to train the next generation of young warriors, both for the space and the Air Force, are the best in the country, and that we are prepared no matter what, that those graduates can go do their job. So it really is an honor to be on the board, but then to be the chairman of it. Naviere Walkewicz 23:03 I can imagine that, and I think it really speaks volumes, the fact that, you know, you're so passionate about it, you've taken what you've had from the Academy, you've applied it in this role. What are the first things that I think you're looking at? You said you talked about the resources and kind of the schedule and things that are happening at the academy. What are the key things that you're looking at right now as a Board of Visitors? Rep. August Pfluger 23:24 Well, I think to start with, I mean, we all know you wake up early, you go bed late, and you're trying to cram, you know, 28 hours into 24 and so the No. 1 thing that I want to see and work through is, how are we continuing to innovate with the best training possible, so that, you know, you can't teach the solution to every problem, but you want to teach a framework of how to think, and that, you know, there's going to be cadets that are challenged through their academic studies, there's going to be cadets that are challenged through their military studies. There's going to be cadets that are challenged athletically, and some that get all three of those, obviously, we all get got all three. But no matter which piece of the puzzle fills, you know, their time, they should get the training that teaches them how to respond in stressful situations, that teaches them how to function as a team, and that that offers them the opportunity to honestly, to experience a little bit of failure, while also knowing that success is right down the road, and that with a little grit, a little determination and a little persistence, that they're going to get there, and that is a challenge, I mean, In a resource-confined environment that we have right now that that's a big challenge, but that's why we have legislators, Senators and House members, They can go fight for those resources to make sure that they're getting that training that they need. Naviere Walkewicz 24:56 Thank you for sharing that you know, I think when you talk about having that framework to critically work through whatever is coming at you, and, you know, fighting for resources. Can you share what is the greatest challenge that you're faced with right now and how you're working through it? Rep. August Pfluger 25:11 Yeah, absolutely. I mean, just, you know, from a military standpoint, I'm obviously very biased on what air power and space power does I mean the army will deploy to certain locations. In the Navy will deploy to certain locations. But the Air Force and the Space Force are everywhere. We're in every theater. We've been in every conflict. We are the constant and I don't think resource wise, that that our Department of the Air Force is receiving the resources that it needs proportionately speaking to the threat that we face. We're the smallest and the oldest that we've ever been, and we need to change that immediately. As chairman — you mentioned I was chairman of the Republican Study Committee. What is that? Well, it's a 189-member caucus, committee, policy committee...   Naviere Walkewicz 26:01 It's the largest one, right?   Rep. August Pfluger 26:02 It's huge. It's the largest committee in Congress, and we meet weekly with Cabinet members and other leaders to discuss policy. But this has been something that I've been passionate about, which we have to take advantage of an environment where some more resources are being put towards our military, and I want to make sure that a larger portion of those go to the Department of the Air Force to meet the threat. And that's just a neat opportunity that it's a competitive election. I had to get elected by my peers. You know, 188 other congressmen and women from across the country. I had to run an election to get elected to it, and now trying to communicate to them why the business of Air and Space power is so important, but, but I'm we're slowly but surely getting there. Naviere Walkewicz 26:53 Well, I'm not sure where you have time when you're you know, you're doing so many things, you're on the road, meeting with your constituents. You're leading. You know these major committees, the Board of Visitors, as chair. Can you talk about how you're balancing? You know, you always talked about being your family is really important to you. How are you balancing that? What does that look like for someone in a leadership role? Rep. August Pfluger 27:13 Well, it's obviously the biggest challenge that any of us face, which is making sure that you take care of the most fundamental and important piece of your life, which is your family and being gone. I mean, I go to Washington, D.C., on Monday, and generally come home Thursday or Friday, and that's about three weeks out of every four. So my wife, is the most important piece of this, because she allows me to do this, and I couldn't do it without her, honestly. And then secondly, you know, we had a scare this summer because two of my girls were at Camp Mystic. And you know, that was that really brought things back to such a fundamental level that, you know, my No. 1 job on this earth is to be a husband and a father, a person of faith. And I'll tell you that that was, that was a transformational moment in it, just in my in my life, because when you have two daughters that were that thankfully came home and in then you see 27 others that didn't, that they knew that we knew the families and we were close to that. This has put everything back into perspective, that the service that I'm doing should be focused on a foundation of family and faith, and that none of it matters if you don't take care of that. Naviere Walkewicz 28:41 So what does that look like in how you lead? How does that shape the decisions you make in your role in Congress, as a reservist? And then for our listeners, you know, how do they put those important things first in the midst of having to make other decisions professionally? Rep. August Pfluger 29:01 I think a lot of it is, maybe not so much, the “what” in the decision, but it's the “how,” you know, you carry yourself, and you know on the other side of the aisle. I mean, I'm going to fight policies that I don't agree with all day long. But I think the how I do that, what I want my daughters to know is that they had a dad that was very firm in his beliefs. So I think that's, you know, when I look at it kind of like from the, “OK, what's important?” OK, being a good dad, not just saying the right things, but actually going and carrying those out. I think the how you carry them out is really important. And then, you know the specifics of legislation. There are things that, if I believe in in taking care of the American family, then there are things that I'm going to advocate for, not, not to make this to political of a discussion, but I think you can see through my track record that that I have focused on those things that would help strengthen the family, Naviere Walkewicz 30:08 The “how” is really, it's part of your legacy, right? And I think that's what your children are seeing as well, in the way that you, you, you do what you do. And I think as leaders, that's something really important to be thinking about. So I'm really thankful that you shared that example. Shared that example. Have you found that your leadership style has evolved, or has it already always been kind of rooted in you know, who you've been and you've just kind of tweaked it a little bit? Or have you seen yourself evolve more than you would have expected? Rep. August Pfluger 30:40 Yes, it has evolved, but, and I hope for the better, we'd have to ask others what they think of that, but, but, you know, look, growing up in a professionally in a fighter squadron, there were three tenants that they even though I didn't go to weapon school, they teach you this to be humble, credible and approachable. I mean, think about that. Those are the core tenants of who our lead warriors are, and that is not what you see. When you think of politicians. You think, Well, they're braggadocious and annoying. And you know, OK, and I hope I don't fall into that category. I need to do some self-reflection every once while, but, but I've got a staff of almost 40 people, and I have 434 other colleagues that you have to work with. So you better believe that you've got to be humble because there are people who are better than you in every category. You better believe that being approachable in this job is really important, because people are going to come to you and they're going to need something, or you're going to need something from them, and if you don't have the credibility of what you're talking about or what you're leading, then you're not going to get anything done. And so I've really had to work on all three of those things since I was elected to make sure that tying that to a servant leadership model. We started out in 2021, and I told my team, I said, we are going to do everything we possibly can to make other people that I am working with, other congressmen and women better. And they said, Wait, what? I said, Yeah, this isn't about me getting the limelight. We will get plenty of limelight, but let's work on giving other people the credit, giving other people the opportunities, calling on their expertise, pushing them up. And it will all work out, and we will achieve everything we wanted to achieve for the district that I represent, and it was just like this lightning bolt of it was so antithetical to the way that many people in Congress think. And I am not saying that we have changed the world, but when you're elected to basically a conference-wide position like I am, then you really have hard conversations with people, and those conversations people said, You know what, you've helped me out. I'm going to vote for you. And that meant everything, Naviere Walkewicz 33:08 Humble, approachable, credible, what great lessons for our leaders. And I think that translates across anything you're doing. Of the three, it seems that credible would probably be the hardest to achieve, right? It's a time-based thing. How would you recommend that our leaders, especially those that are growing in their leadership roles, achieve that when they don't necessarily have the time right in? Rep. August Pfluger 33:38 It's so hard, but that grit, that determination, I mean, the study, the thing, all the things we learned, you know, it's like they give you. The academic instructors are like a torture chamber, because they know you can't study everything, so you have to prioritize, which is a lesson I think I still draw on today. But I think that credibility comes from if you're going to be an expert in something, you've got to study it. You've got to know it, and people have to trust you. So when you tell them something, it has to be the truth, and they have to know well, I don't know that particular policy issue, but I know Pfluger does, because, you know he did that in his career. He studied that. So I think that grit and that determination and the prioritization of your time is so important, you can't do it all. I mean, we just can't. You have to. You have to make a choice, and those choices have to then go towards the goals that you're setting for yourself. Naviere Walkewicz 34:32 Excellent, excellent lessons. So you've accomplished so much since 2021, you know? What's next? What are you trying to work towards next? Rep. August Pfluger 34:43 I mean, there's so many different like policy issues I'm not going to bore you with. Let's just talk about the big picture, the elephant in the room, which is how divided our country is, and it's heartbreaking to see. You know, I think back to like, the aftermath of 911 I literally 911 happened two weeks prior to my pilot training graduation. You as a Class of '99 were right in the same boat. I mean, we were our professional careers were turned upside down, but our country came together, and that that was kind of the I think that that was the best thing to see how many people that were divided on whatever lines kind of came together. We're very divided, and it is hard to see and from I want to see an end of the radical sides of our parties and a normal conversation. We should be able to have a normal debate in Congress about whatever issues of spending and things like that. And we should be able to then slap each other on the back and say, Yeah, good job you won that one. Or, you know, good job I won this one. That should be kind of the norm. And I've got so many good friends who are Democrats that it's there, but the pull to radicalization is it's alive and well. And to be honest, this is why we need more Academy graduates who are doing this type of work, whether it's running for local office or running for Congress or Senate or whatever, because we get it. We get it from being a part of something that was greater than ourselves and being a part of a mission that it wasn't about, I it was literally about the team of success. And I think it's, it's veterans that are in these leadership positions that are going to help be a part of this, so that that really, I really do want to see that that doesn't mean that I'm not going to fight tooth and nail for policy that I believe in, which is partisan at times. And I'm OK with that, but what I'm not OK with is demonizing somebody for having a different belief. Let's go fight the merits of it, but not, not the character of the other person. Naviere Walkewicz 37:03 Thank you for sharing that. I think, you know, just putting the elephant on the table, I think, is really important. That's what it is about conversation. It's about dialog and so thank you for sharing that. For sure, this has been an incredible conversation. We've kind of navigated different parts of your career, you know, your leadership journey, maybe, if I could ask you this, what is something you're doing every day, Congressman Pfluger, to be better? Rep. August Pfluger 37:29 I think, in faith life, really trying to tie in spiritually, and to not be the one in control, trying to be more present in in my family's life, I'm going to give you three or four. So, you know, just being more intentional, putting the phone down, like if I'm going to sit down with my kids and be there, because I could be on the phone 24 hours a day. So put the phone down, talk to my wife be engaged, and that that's really that, that, I think that's a challenge for anybody who is in any adult right now, quite frankly, but especially those that are in leadership positions, which all of our graduates are, and so just put the phone down and being engaged, and it's hard. It's like, “Oh, I got to take care of this, you know, I got to call that person back. We've got to do this.” But you know that is, I think that that is probably the No. 1 thing that then allows a stronger faith life, a stronger relationship with my family. Physically, still taking the Air Force PT test, got a 99 last year. Was very proud of that and so trying to stay physically fit.   Naviere Walkewicz 38:48 That's outstanding!   Rep. August Pfluger 38:49 There are some other graduates who have challenged me with that. You may know Joel Neeb? A classmate of yours.   Naviere Walkewicz 38:58 Oh yeah! I know Thor.   Rep. August Pfluger 39:00 Thor is awesome. And he's been such an inspiration. I could name 100 people, but he said he's a really good inspiration to so many people. And on all the things that you just the things that I answered for your question, he's been a good inspiration on. Naviere Walkewicz 39:15 I would agree with that wholeheartedly. Yes. Well, thank you for that. Can you also share, you know, knowing what you know now through the years that you've experienced, you know your hardships, the triumphs — what would you share with our growing leaders that they can do today to help them be stronger down the road? Rep. August Pfluger 39:37 You know, I think some self-reflection, like, how do you see yourself, and how does the world see you? And is this — does it match up? Because if it's different, if your opinion of yourself is higher than that of what other people are thinking and your work ethic and what you're bringing to the to the table, then then you need to do some self-reflection. And I again, I got back to my career as a fighter pilot, which was perfect for politics. You know, you got to learn to work as a team. You have people debriefing you, and there's critical thoughts on your actions, of how you perform. But I think any leader, it needs to first have the grit to be able to stick with it. It's not always the best person that gets the job, but I can promise you, the person who keeps seeking that job and has that drive, they're going to get there. That has been the story of my life and self-reflection, to go What's stopping me from getting there is probably the key, as long as you have that grit, that self-reflection, to have some clarity for whatever goal you want to achieve. That's my humble opinion of what I would tell myself 15 years ago. Naviere Walkewicz 41:00 Wow. And I think that does kind of give us a moment to just sit in it and think about that as we are, you know, trying to be our best selves and to continue to evolve as leaders. What a great way to do that, right? Just reflect some self-reflection. I want to make sure we have an opportunity. If there's anything that I didn't ask you, that you feel is really important to share with our listeners. What would that be? Rep. August Pfluger 41:24 Well, there were a couple of things. No. 1, I was trying to think back — because your Class of '99 and I'm Class of 2000 — on whether or not I had to get in the front-leaning rest and recite John Stuart Mill's poem, or not. I can't remember that, so maybe I snuck by.   Naviere Walkewicz 41:45 Definitely a front-leaning rest kind of gal. I have pretty strong abs. I can handle that.   Rep. August Pfluger 41:51 You know, I just, I want to go back to what how important our institution is, because we're in that other dimension. We're in the air, in the space domain. We're solving problems in our professional career that I mean, think about where we've come since the Wright Brothers demonstrated we could fly and now, you know all the things that we're doing in air and space, and that's because of our graduates. And you know, I just, I really want to have a call out to our graduates that your leadership in a variety of ways is needed. It's needed in the business community, in Fortune 500 companies. It's needed in your local communities. It's needed at the national level of politics; there are several candidates for Congress right now who are graduates. I'm helping them, and I will help anybody. I don't care what party you are, of course, I have my favorite, but I will help any person who is looking to run for something like this. This is what I know now. But we really do need your leadership in order to bring the temperature down, to unite our country, to make sure that we're going to be successful. It's not if it's a matter of when we're going to face that next big, truly existential threat and challenge to our country. And guess what? I trust the people that were right there next to be in the front, winning rest, reciting all of those quotes and having to do a little bit harder of a standard in our four years of education than other institutions. And so I trust our graduates, but we need you, and we really need you to take that opportunity and serve in any possible way that you can. Naviere Walkewicz 43:45 Wow. Thank you for sharing that. I think that that is a perfect way a call to action, so to speak, for all of us you know the service after the service, so this has been incredible. Congressman Pfluger, thank you for your time today. Rep. August Pfluger 43:57 Well, Naviere, thank you for reaching so many graduates and looking forward to a Bitton Army and Navy again next year. Naviere Walkewicz 44:04 That's right next year. Well, you know, as I reflect on this conversation, you know, one theme really rises above others, courage, the grit, you know, not just the courage we often associate with the battlefield or moments of crises, but the quiet, steady courage that it takes to lead with conviction every day, Congressman Pfluger reminded us that true leadership means standing firm in your values even when the path may be uncertain or the stakes may be high, it's the kind of courage that doesn't seek comfort, but instead answers to responsibility. So as you think about your own leadership journey, ask yourself, Where is courage calling you? Where is that grit gonna take you? Whether it's in the workplace, in your community or your personal life, lean into those moments, because courage, real, principled, humble, courage is what transforms good leaders into great ones. Thank you for listening to this edition of Long Blue Leadership. If you know someone who needs encouraging words in their leadership journey, please share this podcast with them as well. I'm Naviere Walkewicz. Until next time.   KEYWORDS August Pfluger, Long Blue Leadership Podcast, U.S. Air Force Academy, leadership lessons, congressional service, fighter pilot, national security, grit and resilience, service after service, Air Force Board of Visitors, faith and family leadership, career transition, public service, humble credible approachable, air and space power.       The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation    

Send us a textYvonne and Rafael take time to reflect on Season 5, their accomplishments, and the time they spent with guests. They also discuss new features of Deconstructing Comp, including the launch of the Work Comp Changemaker Awards, a new website, a monthly newsletter, a YouTube channel, and so much more! Grab your headphones, your favorite beverage, and let's go have a chat!¡Muchas Gracias! Thank you for listening. We would appreciate you sharing our podcast with your friends on social media. Find Yvonne and Rafael on Linked In or follow us on Twitter @deconstructcomp

We are deep in the holiday season and moms are BUSY. Between trying to create magical memories and not completely losing our minds, December can feel like an extreme sport. This week, Sarah shares fun, easy, low-effort ways to sprinkle extra holiday magic into your month — no burnout required. Plus, we're tackling the great Elf-on-the-Shelf divide (Elf Moms vs. Non-Elf Moms), hating on The Little Drummer Boy, and so much more. Let's survive December together.

In this episode, Jason and Tehran dive into a wide-ranging, no-filter comedy podcast conversation that blends humor, culture, politics, and personal stories. What starts with Tehran wearing sunglasses indoors and a Versace bathrobe quickly turns into jokes about offense, identity, race, and social commentary purely for laughs. From there, the two revisit old memories, including a mutual crush from years ago, a legendary white party, and Tehran's unique family background with a Black Egyptian Jewish mother and an Iranian father. Tehran also shares his experience as a barred attorney who chose a different path. The conversation jumps from absurd to provocative as they riff on geopolitics, the CIA's role in Iran, Israel-Iran conflict, October 7th, and the idea that nations themselves are constructs, all through a satirical and comedic lens. They also touch on 9/11, conspiracy culture, and the strange details people still debate decades later. Pop culture makes its way into the mix with jokes and commentary on Kanye West, hip hop culture, celebrity controversy, Winnie the Pooh, P. Diddy, Kevin Hart, Dave Chappelle, and Nick Cannon. Legal chaos is not spared either, with humorous takes on high-profile lawsuits, the Epstein list, the O.J. Simpson trial, and the Alec Baldwin case. The episode wraps with a wild high school story where Tehran fought the school board and won the right to wear his own branded hat and a bathrobe while taking the SATs. Unfiltered, irreverent, and intentionally ridiculous, this is a stand-up comedy style podcast episode filled with satire, dark humor, free speech jokes, and cultural commentary. Nothing is off limits and nothing is taken too seriously.

Amy and Dale's favorite segment on Bless Your ‘Hardt has always been #AskAmy because they get to hear from you, the listeners! You never know where the questions or conversations will lead. We had a lot of hilarious moments during #AskAmy, so we compiled some of the best questions, funniest responses, and silliest debates to create The Best of Ask Amy. From naming the Dale and Amy rom-com movie to proposal and parenting advice, and everything in between, #AskAmy had it all this year!FanDuel: Must be 21+ and present in select states (for Kansas, in affiliation with Kansas Star Casino) or 18+ and present in D.C. First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit required. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bets which expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat in Connecticut, or visit mdgamblinghelp.org in Maryland. Hope is here. Visit GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support in Massachusetts or call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY in New York. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welllllcome everybody to, yes, you are reading that correctly, a new 2025 episode of The SomethingSomethingcast. Look, if we didn’t come here and talk about this on microphones to the internet, we would just be talking about it to ourselves and we figured you might need a laugh too. A long time ago there was a show that lived and breathed nostalgia. References long forgotten. Nerdery around every corner. Obscure nods to fringe pop culture. Well, that show has decided to come back to do a special pair of episodes to celebrate the finale of Stranger Things. So load up that RSS feed on your Zune – because the Somethings have yet again reunited for the holiday season to flip-trip-upsidedown yet again for Stranger Things Season Five – Pt. 1 Ok, here it is… wait, how’d that go? Full Episode

Sources tell me Britney Spears burst into laughter after seeing her ex-husband’s new Playboy cover, brushing off the images as “nothing to write home about.” Meanwhile, Tom Cruise’s once–must-have holiday coconut Bundt cake is losing its sparkle in Hollywood, where stars are now gravitating toward Taylor Swift–themed treats instead. And in Aspen circles, insiders whisper that Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell are experiencing a subtle but noticeable strain over political differences — a rare crack in one of Hollywood’s most famously steady couples. Don't forget to vote in today's poll on Twitter at @naughtynicerob or in our Facebook group.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Nate Thurston and Charles 'Chuck' Thompson for another lively episode of Good Morning Liberty as they discuss the 'Dumb Bleep of the Week,' highlighting the most absurd moments in politics. From Congress's union debates to discussions on Trump's pardoning powers, New Jersey's plastic utensil ban, and a controversial jury decision, they've got it all covered. Plus, they bring you a hilarious campaign announcement from Jasmine Crockett and a self-own by the US Treasury. Laughs, rants, and insightful commentary abound in this must-watch episode! 00:00 Intro 02:08 Unions 11:05 Presidential Pardons 15:19 Big Pharma Bailouts 19:10 Netflix and Warner Brothers 31:09 Elon Musk and Wealth Inequality 42:19 Energy Drinks and Parenting Responsibility 47:20 New Jersey's Plastic Fork Ban 53:22 The Swastika Incident 57:05 Jury Nullification and the N-Word 01:05:20 Jasmine Crockett's Senate Campaign 01:09:41 US Treasury's Self-Own on Bond Market Returns  

In this heartfelt episode, Stephanie Miller pays tribute to the late Jim Ward, an Emmy award-winning voice talent and beloved member of the show, who is known for voicing Captain Qwark from Ratchet & Clank, Chet Ubetcha from The Fairly OddParents. As she shares cherished memories and classic bits, listeners are invited to reflect on Jim's comedic genius and the impact of Alzheimer's disease. Join her in celebrating a life filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. With guest author Dr. Irwin Redlener!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer attempted to strong-arm Secretary of War Pete Hegseth into coughing up sensitive military information on Tuesday regarding a months-old strike on narco-terrorists in the Caribbean and ended up embarrassed afterward. Hegseth laughed in his face as they now seek to impeach him! And President Trump has ramped up his feud with Ilhan Omar -- she is in a total meltdown.Sponsor:My PillowWww.MyPillow.com/johnSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Every married couple argues, fights, and can even act straight-up childish sometimes — but honestly, that's totally normal, and it doesn't mean your marriage is in trouble! Sadie Robertson Huff, Christian Huff, 2Mama, and 2Papa (aka Sadie's grandparents) are all hanging out together, spilling the tea on the biggest, dumbest, silliest arguments they've had in their marriages. Then, they react to clips from podcast guests who're sharing their own cringe-worthy marriage fights and the laughs just keep rolling. This Episode is Sponsored By: Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/WHOA. Promo Code WHOA https://samaritanspurse.org/occ — Share God's love with a child in need this holiday season. Join Sadie and pack a shoebox online for Operation Christmas Child this year! Upgrade your sleep—or give the gift of better rest! Go to https://trymiracle.com/WHOA and use the code WHOA to claim your FREE 3 PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF. - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are officially in the thick of the holiday season... blink twice if you're OK! This week, Sarah sits down with Developmental Scientist, Leading Child Psychologist and Co-Author of Einstein Never Used Flashcards, Kathy Hirsh-Pasek! After 40 YEARS of developmental research, she is on a mission to bring back PLAY and make parenting more joyful, fun and a whole lot less stressful. YES PLEASE! We chat: