Podcasts about Laughter

Connect with Mel Connect with Coach MikkiWhat if “unlucky” is just a story we inherited, and we're free to rewrite it? We kick things off with Friday the 13th and follow the thread through Norse myths, the Last Supper, and the Knights Templar to see how fear gathers power over time. Then we flip the script with Galentine's Day, turning a date with a bad reputation into a bright spot for friendship, humor, and everyday love that doesn't wait for a calendar prompt.From there, we lose it in laughter talking about  the rituals we learned as kids, honking through tunnels, lifting our feet over railroad tracks, counting cows until a cemetery reset, still echo in how we chase luck and ward off jitters. We share the nostalgia of vintage toys and board games (yes, Operation's terrifying buzz and Monopoly debt at age 10), plus the handmade Barbie outfits that prove fashion really does come back around—hello again, shoulder pads. These memories aren't just cute; they're a map of how culture changes and how we choose what to keep.We also open up about what we're building now. Mel's crafting seasonal word search books, sketching cozy mysteries, and launching a stock photo portfolio. Mickey's fresh off a keynote on why comfort zones kill success and is racing to finish a new book before a small East Coast signing tour. Creativity becomes our counterspell to superstition: show up, make something, share it. That's how we make our own luck.If you've ever wondered why 13 feels spooky, whether numerology helps or hinders, or how a sitcom joke turned into a global celebration of women's friendship, you'll feel right at home here. Come for the folklore and stay for the heart, the laughs, and the reminder that joy lands best when it's shared. If this conversation made you smile, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review, what superstition are you still carrying? We look forward to seeing you succeed! - www.KeepOnSharing.com - Code - KOSSupport the showJoin my guests on my YouTube Channel

Lunchbox shared what long standing tradition he thinks is creepy and needs to go away. Eddie gets vulnerable with us and shares that he is auditioning for a voice acting job. We listen to his audition audio that he sent in to try and get the job. A caller requests a segment that we haven't done in over 5 years. He wants to hear us do 30 seconds of non-stop laughter. Can we pull it off because it's harder than you think! We also debated Valentine's Day gifts and how they are different for women and men. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mel Brooks documentary, "The 99-Year-Old Man!" holds a lot of wisdom for cartoonists. Speaking of wisdom, it doesn't take much to avoid these common Kickstarter scams.Today's ShowWhat can cartoonists learn from Mel Brooks?KickstarterSummaryIn this episode of ComicLab, cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the challenges and joys of creativity, drawing inspiration from Mel Brooks' documentary. They explore themes of fear, kindness, and the importance of perseverance in artistic careers. The conversation also touches on the realities of navigating Kickstarter campaigns, including the rise of scams targeting creators. Throughout, the hosts emphasize the power of laughter and the need for support in the creative community.TakeawaysFear is a recurring theme in creativity.The fear of not trying is greater than the fear of failure.Kindness can have a profound impact on artists.Perseverance doesn't mean sticking to what's not working.You can reinvent yourself as an artist at any stage.Kickstarter scams are on the rise; be cautious.Laughter is a powerful tool for change.Support from friends is crucial in creative journeys.It's important to recognize the struggles behind success.Creativity often requires stepping out of comfort zones.   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

In honor of All In This Together, Jack, Anne Lamott, and Tami Simon continue their heart-opening conversation on story, tenderness, and remembering who you areJack's new book is out now!: All in This Together: Stories and Teachings for Loving Each Other and Our WorldToday's podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/heartwisdom and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode, Jack, Anne, and Tami mindfully explore:Anne Lamott's 12-Step cruise ship seminar wisdomHow to tell or write a heart-opening storyGetting to the emotional center of it allRemembering who you really areIlluminating our common humanityLaughter as carbonated holiness and sacred groundWhat's between the telling and the listeningHow to trade our exhaustion for peace and restMicro-dosing love and understandingThe healing power of true romantic, soul-mate loveBeing loved just as you areStories on hopeOperating from the heart caveJack's recent visit with His Holiness the Dalai LamaStories of conflict resolutionThis conversation originally took place in Nov 2025 for Sounds True's celebration of Jack's All In This Together book release. Stay up to date with Jack's upcoming livestreams and events here.About Anne Lamott:Anne Lamott is the New York Times best-selling author of many books, including collections of essays, novels, and long-form non-fiction, including the classic writing manual Bird by Bird and child-rearing memoir Operating Instructions. In addition to being a novelist and nonfiction writer, Lamott is also a progressive political activist, public speaker, and writing teacher. Keep up with Anne on Instagram.“Laughter is carbonated holiness, and when we're laughing together we're on sacred ground.” –Anne LamottAbout Tami Simon:Tami Simon is the founder of Sounds True, a multimedia company that has produced over 3,000 titles and been nominated twice for the Inc. 500 list of the fastest-growing companies. Tami also hosts the popular Sounds True podcast, Insights at the Edge, with more than 15 million downloads. Tami has been instrumental in the creation of the Inner MBA Program: a nine-month interactive program featuring esteemed CEOs and conscious business and mindfulness leaders created by Sounds True, LinkedIn and Wisdom 2.0.About Jack Kornfield:Jack Kornfield trained as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India, and Burma, studying as a monk under the Buddhist master Ven. Ajahn Chah, as well as the Ven. Mahasi Sayadaw. He has taught meditation internationally since 1974 and is one of the key teachers to introduce Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West. Jack co-founded the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, with fellow meditation teachers Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein and the Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. His books have been translated into 20 languages and sold more than a million copies.Jack is currently offering a wonderful array of transformational online courses diving into crucial topics like Mindfulness Meditation Fundamentals, Walking the Eightfold Path, Opening the Heart of Forgiveness, Living Beautifully, Transforming Your Life Through Powerful Stories, and so much more. Sign up for an All Access Pass to explore Jack's entire course library. If you would like a year's worth of online meetups with Jack and fellow community, join The Year of Awakening: A Monthly Journey with Jack Kornfield.“I want to tell stories that soften your heart, make you weep or laugh, help you remember who you are, and illuminate our common humanity.” –Jack KornfieldStay up to date with Jack and his stream of fresh dharma offerings by visiting JackKornfield.com and signing up for his email teachings.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marina Franklin host a brand new Friends Like Us with Jenny Saldaña and Kimberly Clark!  We spill hilarious and heartfelt dating stories, just in time for Valentine's Day! Jenny Saldaña is a writer, actress, and stand-up comedian and a Breast Cancer Rock STAR and all around hotness. She wrote, produced and starred in Happy Cancer Chick, a web series inspired by her own battle with breast cancer. She recently appeared in HBO's High Maintenance. Her video series, The Little Brown Girl Show can be found on Youtube and Facebook Live. She will be appearing as part of the Black Women In Comedy Laff Festival  live show at the Grisly Pear, Desperate Digital Dating Diary Kimberly Clark: Originally from Syracuse, NY. She's been seen on Netflix's Tiffany Haddish presents: They Ready, The Late Late Show with James Corden, and Last Comic Standing. She was named one of Time Out L.A.'s Comics To Watch. Always hosted by Marina Franklin - One Hour Comedy Special: Single Black Female ( Amazon Prime, CW Network), TBS's The Last O.G, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Hysterical on FX, The Movie Trainwreck, Louie Season V, The Jim Gaffigan Show, Conan O'Brien, Stephen Colbert, HBO's Crashing, and The Breaks with Michelle Wolf. Writer for HBO's 'Divorce' and the new Tracy Morgan show on Paramount Plus: 'Crutch    

Laughter, mockery or jealousy? Adam, David, Neil and Steve chat the latest in 2026 MotoGP – the championship launch - and then also work through a slew of hot takes sent into the show after the Sepang test. Pic by MotoGP.com Adam's piece on the MotoGP launch in Kuala Lumpur: https://race19.substack.com/p/perspective-motogp-opens-2026-with Thanks to Renthal Street for supporting the podcast. Head to the Renthal website for handlebars, sprockets, chains, and more, using the Fit Your Bike tool. www.renthal.com/road/ Sign up for for exclusive content from the MotoGP and WorldSBK paddocks https://patreon.com/paddockpasspodcast We have merch! Get your t-shirts, caps, hoodies and more here: https://paddockpasspodcast.com/shop

Host: Allan NewsomeRunning time: 0:31:14 Even in a town where the biggest crime might be a misplaced pickle jar, love found its way into Mayberry's gentle rhythms. From puppy crushes to long-term romances, the show wove sweetness into its most memorable plots. One of the earliest and most charming arcs of affection comes from young […]

Send a textHello Friends! Welcome back to your favorite Wednesday morning podcast! This time Robbie had another floor hockey altercation, Jordan didn't really want the tea and they both discuss the Super Bowl and the Halftime Show! Thanks for stopping by!Support the showEmail us @ tidbitzwiththeboyz@gmail.com Tik Tok Instagram Facebook Check out Robbie's YouTube Fitness journey!

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Arctic Valentine's Adventure: Snowmen, Bears & Laughter Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-02-11-23-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Nel vasto silenzio dell'Artico, il sole d'inverno splendeva sul bianco deserto di neve.En: In the vast silence of the Arctic, the winter sun shone on the white desert of snow.It: Luca, con un cuore pieno di romanticismo e speranza, aveva una missione: costruire il perfetto pupazzo di neve per San Valentino.En: Luca, with a heart full of romance and hope, had a mission: to build the perfect snowman for Valentine's Day.It: Chiara e Alessandro, i suoi fedeli compagni, lo accompagnavano in questa impresa.En: Chiara and Alessandro, his faithful companions, were accompanying him on this endeavor.It: "Guarda quant'è bella questa distesa," disse Chiara, scettica ma entusiasta di supportare Luca.En: "Look at how beautiful this expanse is," said Chiara, skeptical but enthusiastic about supporting Luca.It: "Sì, sì, la neve è bella," scherzò Alessandro, sgranando gli occhi.En: "Yes, yes, the snow is beautiful," joked Alessandro, widening his eyes.It: "Ma è troppo soffice, sembra zucchero a velo!"En: "But it's too soft, it looks like powdered sugar!"It: Luca annuì, deciso.En: Luca nodded, determined.It: Nonostante la neve fosse troppo polverosa per formare un pupazzo di neve adeguato, la sua determinazione non vacillava.En: Despite the snow being too powdery to form an adequate snowman, his determination did not waver.It: Cominciarono a lavorare, ma ogni tentativo falliva miseramente.En: They began to work, but every attempt failed miserably.It: La neve si sgretolava tra le loro mani.En: The snow crumbled in their hands.It: All'improvviso, un suono insolito.En: Suddenly, an unusual sound.It: Un orso polare, curioso e senza timore, apparve a pochi metri da loro.En: A polar bear, curious and fearless, appeared just a few meters from them.It: Alessandro si mise subito a scherzare, facendo finta di conversare con l'orso.En: Alessandro immediately started joking, pretending to converse with the bear.It: "Amico peloso," esclamò, "cerchiamo di fare un pupazzo, non hai visto niente di speciale!"En: "Furry friend," he exclaimed, "we're trying to make a snowman, you haven't seen anything special!"It: Luca guardava preoccupato, ma Chiara sapeva che Alessandro stava solo cercando di alleggerire la tensione.En: Luca watched worriedly, but Chiara knew that Alessandro was just trying to lighten the tension.It: "Luca, proviamo a prendere un po' di neve lì, sotto quello sporgenza," suggerì Chiara, indicando un'area più riparata.En: "Luca, let's try to get some snow over there, under that ledge," suggested Chiara, pointing to a more sheltered area.It: Mentre Alessandro divertiva l'orso con movimenti strani e vocalizzi ridicoli, Luca e Chiara raccolsero la neve più umida e cominciarono a formare, pezzo per pezzo, il pupazzo traballante.En: While Alessandro entertained the bear with strange movements and ridiculous vocalizations, Luca and Chiara gathered the more humid snow and began to form, piece by piece, the wobbly snowman.It: Finalmente, dopo pochi minuti di lavoro intenso, Luca riuscì a completare il suo progetto.En: Finally, after a few minutes of intense work, Luca managed to complete his project.It: Ma proprio nel momento in cui sembrava che ce l'avessero fatta, il curioso orso spinse il pupazzo come se volesse partecipare al gioco.En: But just at the moment when it seemed they had succeeded, the curious bear nudged the snowman as if wanting to join in the game.It: Il pupazzo crollò su se stesso, sfaldato dalla leggera ma decisa spinta dell'orso.En: The snowman collapsed on itself, dismantled by the bear's gentle yet decisive push.It: Invece di arrabbiarsi, Luca scoppiò a ridere insieme a Chiara e Alessandro.En: Instead of getting angry, Luca burst out laughing along with Chiara and Alessandro.It: Luca capì allora che la perfezione non era tutto.En: Luca realized then that perfection wasn't everything.It: L'importante era stato il sorriso di Chiara e il divertimento con Alessandro, e questo San Valentino sarebbe stato indimenticabile.En: The important thing had been Chiara's smile and the fun with Alessandro, and this Valentine's Day would be unforgettable.It: Scattarono una foto insieme al caos della neve e con il curioso orso sullo sfondo, un ricordo perfetto di un giorno speciale.En: They took a photo together with the snow chaos and the curious bear in the background, a perfect memory of a special day.It: Con il cuore leggero e il sorriso stampato sul viso, Luca realizzò che l'imperfezione, l'amicizia e le risate erano molto più preziosi del pupazzo di neve ideale.En: With a light heart and a smile on his face, Luca realized that imperfection, friendship, and laughter were much more precious than the ideal snowman.It: E questo, pensava, era il regalo perfetto per Chiara in quel luogo gelido e magico.En: And this, he thought, was the perfect gift for Chiara in that cold and magical place. Vocabulary Words:vast: vastosilence: silenziodesert: desertoromance: romanticismomission: missioneendeavor: impresaskeptical: scetticadetermined: decisoadequate: adeguatocrumble: sgretolavaunusual: insolitocurious: curiosofearless: senza timoreto entertain: divertireledge: sporgenzahumid: umidawobbly: traballantecollapse: crollaredismantled: sfaldatogentle: leggeraprecious: preziosiideal: idealeimperfection: imperfezionefriendship: amicizialaughter: risatebackground: sfondomemory: ricordolight heart: cuore leggerogift: regalomagical: magico

Due to factors it's another ride on the remote record train as the Bucks-Hulme-Palace trifecta is enacted once again. But fear not, for geographical limitation does not lead to content limitation, and the show's exemplary badinage level is kept high.The trifecta briefly becomes a quadfecta through the addition of comedian and protocol penner, Pierre Novellie. Yes, the man who made it his business to codify the essence of Cymru Connecting stops by to adjudicate a live connection attempt. But not before taking questions on the Boer War and explaining what the Dutch have to do with all of this.Then it's onto an old classic Made Up Game that reveals slightly too much information about its players…Do you have contributions that will help us maintain industry leading levels of badinage? Send them into elisandjohn@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp them to 07974 293 022.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Unexpected Laughter: A Spontaneous Valentin-nap Adventure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2026-02-10-08-38-20-hu Story Transcript:Hu: Valentin-nap reggelén Zoltán és Borbála készen álltak egy különleges kalandra.En: On the morning of Valentin-nap, Zoltán and Borbála were ready for a special adventure.Hu: A hideg tél ellenére a gyógyfürdőbe indultak, hogy elmeneküljenek a budapesti városi élet zajától.En: Despite the cold winter, they set off for the spa, to escape the noise of city life in Budapest.Hu: Zoltán azt tervezte, hogy a hőforrások bölcsességével és nyugalmával kápráztatja el Borbálát.En: Zoltán planned to dazzle Borbála with the wisdom and tranquility of the hot springs.Hu: Ahogy beléptek a termálfürdő mesébe illő területére, a hely misztikuma szinte magával ragadta őket.En: As they entered the fairy-tale-like area of the thermal bath, the mystique of the place almost captivated them.Hu: A levegőben gőz úszott, ami táncolt a fényben, és a víz ásványi anyagainak illata töltötte be a teret.En: Steam floated in the air, dancing in the light, and the scent of the water's minerals filled the space.Hu: Zoltán büszkén vezetett Borbálát a fürdők között, próbálva helyi szakértőként tetszelegni.En: Zoltán proudly guided Borbála between the baths, trying to pose as a local expert.Hu: Borbála mosolya azt jelezte, hogy élvezi az élményt.En: Borbála's smile indicated that she was enjoying the experience.Hu: Ahogy elértek az egyik medencéhez, egy csoport idős ember nyújtózkodott és mosolygott egymásra.En: When they reached one of the pools, a group of elderly people stretched and smiled at each other.Hu: Zoltán biztos volt benne, hogy ez a tökéletes hely a pihenésre, így bátorítóan intett Borbálának, és beléptek a meleg vízbe.En: Zoltán was sure this was the perfect place to relax, so he encouragingly waved Borbála over, and they entered the warm water.Hu: Azonban hamarosan rájöttek, hogy egy senior aqua aerobic órába csöppentek, de Zoltán elővette a legjobb színészi képességeit és úgy tett, mintha ez a része lett volna az eredeti tervnek.En: However, they soon realized they had stumbled into a senior aqua aerobics class, but Zoltán drew on his best acting skills and pretended this was part of the original plan.Hu: Az oktató, Marika néni, energikusan kezdte az órát.En: The instructor, Marika néni, energetically started the class.Hu: Zoltán szerette volna követni a mozgást, de alig tudta tartani a lépést.En: Zoltán wanted to follow the movements but could hardly keep up.Hu: A helyzet még mókásabbá vált, amikor Marika néni Zoltánt kérte fel egy bemutatóra.En: The situation became even more amusing when Marika néni asked Zoltán to demonstrate.Hu: Zoltán, aki igyekezett hősiesen helyt állni, ügyetlenkedve próbált meg két úszókötelet egyensúlyozni, ami nevetésbe fulladt az egész csoport részéről, Borbálát is beleértve.En: Striving to be a hero, Zoltán clumsily tried to balance two swim noodles, which plunged the entire group, including Borbála, into laughter.Hu: A vízből csorgó nevetés olyan fertőző volt, hogy Zoltán maga is elnevette magát.En: The laughter flowing from the water was so infectious that Zoltán himself started to laugh.Hu: Végül feladta a látszatot, és olyan őszintén nevetett, amilyen csak egy baklövés után lehet.En: Eventually, he gave up the pretense and laughed as honestly as one can after a blunder.Hu: Marika néni tapsolt, és az egész csoport követte példáját.En: Marika néni clapped, and the whole group followed her example.Hu: Az idős néni sokatmondó tekintettel bólintott, mintha azt mondaná: „Emlékezz, a legjobb tervek a véletlenekből születnek.En: The elderly lady nodded knowingly, as if to say: "Remember, the best plans are born from accidents."Hu: ”A óra végén Zoltán félénken bevallotta Borbálának a hibáját.En: At the end of the class, Zoltán shyly confessed his mistake to Borbála.Hu: Borbála hajolt hozzá, és mosolyogva azt mondta: "Néha a legjobb Valentin-napi ajándék a spontán szórakozás.En: Leaning towards him, Borbála smiled and said, "Sometimes the best Valentin-nap gift is spontaneous fun."Hu: " Zoltán ekkor megértette, hogy nem kell mindig tökéletesnek lennie, és Borbála, humorával, segített neki lazítani.En: Zoltán then realized that he didn't always need to be perfect, and Borbála, with her humor, helped him to relax.Hu: Ez a Valentin-nap különleges emlék maradt számukra.En: This Valentin-nap remained a special memory for them.Hu: A termálfürdő, a gőz és a nevetés hangja egy örökre szóló ajándék lett.En: The thermal bath, the steam, and the sound of laughter became a gift that would last a lifetime. Vocabulary Words:despite: ellenéretranquility: nyugalomdazzle: kápráztatmystique: misztikumcaptivated: magával ragadtaminerals: ásványi anyagokpose: tetszelegnielderly: időspretended: úgy tettenergetically: energikusanbalance: egyensúlyozniinfectious: fertőzőblunder: baklövésclapped: tapsoltspontaneous: spontánconfessed: bevallottapretense: látszathero: hősiwarm: melegbroadly: szélesenwisdom: bölcsességlocal expert: helyi szakértőguided: vezetettstretched: nyújtózkodottencouragingly: bátorítóancarefree: gondtalanamusing: mókásdemonstrate: bemutatónodded: bólintottleaning: hajolt

The deal isn't closed by force; it's closed by clarity. Most of you are white-knuckling the steering wheel of your career, praying the upholstery doesn't rip before you hit your Q4 numbers. You're treating your discovery calls like a tactical extraction and your nervous system like a rented mule. It's high-friction, low-resonance, and frankly, it's a waste of your biological bandwidth. We sat down with Kevin Hubschmann, the founder of Laugh Dot Events, to discuss why your "professional" persona is actually a bottleneck for your ROI. Kevin transitioned from selling enterprise SaaS to what he calls "LaaS" (Laughter as a Service). But this isn't about telling jokes in the breakroom. This is about Human Physics. It's about using the mechanics of improv to regulate your state, navigate high-stakes environments, and stop being a "JV" version of yourself. When you operate with less internal friction, the market responds. Key Insights for the Coherent Leader: "F*** Your Good Idea": In improv and enterprise sales, your attachment to your own "brilliant" next line is a parasite. It eats your capacity to listen. Kevin highlights that true leverage comes from abandoning your script to meet the resonance of the room. Stop interrupting the flow to deliver a pitch the client didn't ask for. The Identity Tax: Most professionals suffer from a split-personality deficit—a "9-to-5" robot and a "5-to-9" human. This internal dissonance is a massive energy leak. Kevin's "unlock" happened when a mentor gave him permission to stop being a "Salesman" and start being himself. Authenticity isn't a soft skill; it's a regulation strategy. The Corporate Simulation: We all use the same twenty buzzwords—"circle back," "synergy," "alignment"—to mask the fact that we're stressed. Acknowledging the absurdity of the corporate vernacular reduces the collective pressure in the room. Laughter is the fastest way to reset a dysregulated team and restore cognitive bandwidth. Strategic Empathy as Leverage: Enterprise deals aren't won by "crushing" the opposition. They are won by making your champion a rockstar. Kevin's approach focuses on finding the right budget—shifting from a "tactical" spend to a "strategic" investment—by reading the human physics of the organization. The Shift: Stop trying to override your biology with more caffeine and louder presentations. Regulation is the new competitive advantage. Kevin's work proves that when you lean into levity and presence, you aren't just "having fun"—you are increasing your capacity to handle complexity. You are becoming the eye of the storm. If your team is currently vibrating at a frequency of pure anxiety, it's time to recalibrate. Operate with less friction. The results will follow the resonance. If your team is vibrating with unnecessary friction, Kevin is the eye of the storm you need. Get your offsite sorted before the wheels fall off. Navigate over to https://laughrx.laugh.events and fix your culture before it breaks you.

Life is filled with both celebration and sorrow — laughter and tears. In Genesis 21, we see how God uses every season to shape our faith and prepare us for what's ahead. This chapter shows us that joy doesn't cancel hardship, and hardship doesn't mean God has left us. Through fulfilled promises, painful decisions, wilderness […]

Welcome to the interview podcast providing an inside scoop on comedy scenes across the globe. We are dedicated to speaking with the true mavericks of the comedy world.In this episode, join acclaimed comedian Dane Baptiste for an unfiltered look at his journey, from his humble beginnings to conquering the Edinburgh Fringe. Dane dives deep into the harsh realities of the comedy industry, the hurdles of creating a Black sitcom, and the nuances of racism in the UK versus the USA.From navigating "cancel culture" to the raw truth about fame and ego, Baptiste explores why comedy remains the ultimate tool for explaining culture and speaking truth to power.Episode Timestamps:[[01:28]] My humble beginnings in comedy [[07:04]][[04:46]] TikTok culture and its impact on society [[07:00]][[10:11]] The challenges of starting a comedy journey [[13:53]][[14:10]] Creating a Black sitcom on a micro-budget [[19:59]][[19:59]] Conquering the Edinburgh Fringe with limited resources [[25:32]][[25:32]] Ego and the comedy industry [[27:05]][[27:09]] The truth about comedy promoters and critics [[29:19]][[35:12]] Validation and navigating "BS" in the comedy space [[40:11]][[41:37]] Comparing racism in the UK and the USA [[46:31]][[47:00]] Cheap race jokes and the "blame game" [[01:01:20]][[01:02:37]] The power of comedy [[01:04:05]][[01:08:00]] Why most people don't want to tell the truth to rock the boat [[01:15:00]][[01:15:37]] My role as an observational comedian [[01:17:17]][[01:17:27]] Life advice, cancellation, and the rarity of being heard [[01:20:00]][[01:22:00]] Survival advice for being "cancelled" [[01:30:00]]Connect with Dane Baptiste:Official Website: danebaptiste.co.ukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaneBaptisteComedyLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DaneBaptistePodcast: https://shorturl.at/SWnXeComing Soon: Citizen DaneFollow & Support This Podcast:YouTube: https://bit.ly/41LWDAqSpotify: spoti.fiSpotify:https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts: https://apple.co/3LEkr3ESupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise#danebaptiste #comedypodcast #cancelculture #standupcomedy #britishcomedy #edinburghfringe #blackbritishcomedy #comedyindustry #socialcommentary #ukvsusa #thecomediansparadise #podcastinterview

 Episode 201 hits as we launch into the stratosphere of elite podcasts with another Cocktale Hour throwdown. Education this time as we instruct our listeners on the best ways to make easy money in today's economy. Enjoy! 

Do you wonder about your past lives and how they might be impacting your life today? That's what the Akashic Records are all about and my guest, Mary Madeiras explains everything beautifully. Mary is an Advanced Akashic Records Practitioner, author, and three-time Emmy award-winning television director. Yes, that combination is as interesting as it sounds. Her background provides a rare way of translating big spiritual ideas into language that makes sense. What Are the Akashic Records? Mary explains the Akashic Records in a way that people immediately get. They're not some distant cosmic filing system reserved for mystics. The Records are a source of insight connected to your soul and higher awareness. Everything you have done in the past, are doing today, and possibly may do in the future can be found in one place. Don't go to the Akashic Records to collect past-life trivia or dramatic stories to entertain yourself. This information or resource is meant for understanding patterns, gaining clarity on issues happening now, and most of all, remembering who you are. What surprises many people is how practical working with the Records can be. Clear answers are often found about questions regarding relationships, work, creativity, or your direction in life. These are all ideal queries for the Akashic Library. For Mary, accessing the Records feels less like a solemn ritual. Her experience shows up more like stepping into a curious, open conversation with a wiser part of herself. She's encountered many wonderful revelations for her clients as well. How the Records Appear People often expect the Akashic Records to appear as a grand inner vision. You might see an ancient massive library filled with an endless sea of books. That image works beautifully for me and many others. However, Mary's experience is very different. In fact, she doesn't see a library at all. Instead, the information she receives comes through as a strong sense of knowing. Mary calls these impressions quantum visuals, meaning they aren't pictures so much as complete ideas that arrive fully formed. Imagine a block of information downloading to your intuitive brain. Officially, this is called claircognizance or knowing. Mary doesn't access her imagination or memory. The knowledge appears clear and direct in her mind, like it was brought there all at once. Over time, Mary learned to trust her intuition. She uses all of the “clairs” including listening, sensing, feeling, and knowing. This broader intuitive process allows the records to communicate in whatever way works best for each practitioner. It's a relief for many people to hear that there's no single right way to work with the Akashic. You don't need dramatic inner movies or to hear voices to do this intuitive work. The message always matters more than the method of delivery. Past Lives Without the Drama The Akashic Records can reveal past lives, but not always the way you might expect. These stories aren't about the details of a life, but more about context. Past-life information tends to surface when it helps explain something puzzling that's happening now. Clients can learn about roles they once held, themes that keep repeating, or relationships that feel strangely familiar. I asked Mary if it was like the soap operas and we laughed! However, the valuable insights aren't in the story itself. The information helps people understand their current choices, fears, and strengths. When viewed this way, past lives stop feeling abstract or like a curiosity. Your previous incarnations become a tool for insight, healing, and personal growth. Get the Ego Out of the Way One of the most important parts of Mary's work is learning how to step aside mentally and emotionally. She does this by consciously setting her ego aside before opening the records. Imagine that she tells her ego to take a seat in the corner and be quiet. This matters because opinions, assumptions, and personal filters can easily distort intuitive information. By releasing the need to interpret or judge what comes through, Mary allows the guidance to remain clear. She becomes temporarily incapable of having an opinion during sessions, which is exactly what makes the information so valuable for clients. Fascinating Past Life Stories Some of the most memorable moments in Mary's work come from retelling clues from the Records. One client who is an artist, had visited France and would always cry as she was leaving. She couldn't understand what this was about. Through the Records, Mary discovered a past life in which the client had been apprenticed to a lesser-known painter, who she worked for and then married. She would finish his work for him as part of her job. What made the experience powerful was that it tied her travel to France with being an artist in this life. After doing some research, she figured out which painter she'd been married to. The Akashic reminded her of something old and familiar and connected them to make more sense. The Records Are Within One of Mary's core teachings is that the Akashic Records are within you. You're not separate from them, and the information isn't hidden behind spiritual barriers. Turns out all of this data is part of your own energetic makeup. Across cultures and time periods, different traditions have pointed to this same idea. Edgar Cayce spoke about the records. The Bible refer to a Book of Life. Modern physics talks about fields of information and possibility. These are different languages, but all the same concept. Everything is connected, and your lessons are never truly lost. When you see the Akashic Records this way, they stop feeling mysterious or unreachable. They become something you can trust and access in your own way. A Lighter Way As our conversation came to a close, Mary shared a message that felt especially important and reassuring. Despite how chaotic the world seems right now, you are likely doing better than you think. There's a tendency to believe you need fixing or that you are missing something essential. The records consistently suggest otherwise. Mary encourages people to notice what brings ease and enjoyment into their daily lives. Small moments of pleasure matter. Laughter matters. Feeling connected matters as well as doing what you love. These aren't distractions from spiritual growth – they're a big part of it! Live With Curiosity and Trust live with curiosity and trust The purpose of exploring the Akashic Records is to better understand your life and the lessons you’re learning. When you approach your personal development and spiritual growth with curiosity, your own insights and choices become easier. Decisions feel less pressurized. Mary's work reminds you that wisdom doesn't have to be heavy or dramatic. Sometimes it's simple and even fun. Often, it's waiting for you to stop striving and take the time to simply listen. You can get a Free chapter of Mary’s new book The Akashic Way here. I loved this book! And get the complete book right here! BIO – Mary Madeiras Mary Madeiras is an Advanced Akashic Records Practitioner, author, and three-time Emmy Award-winning television director whose career bridges the worlds of spiritual transformation and broadcast storytelling. She has opened the Akashic Records for individuals and corporations worldwide, offering soul-level guidance, healing, and divine remembrance. Her book, The Akashic Way – Living Through the Lens of the Akashic Records, shares direct transmissions from the Records as a sacred offering for humanity's evolution. Mary's celebrated directing career spans news, talk shows, sports, and seven top-rated daytime dramas—including General Hospital and Another World—earning her three Emmy Awards and a Directors Guild of America Award. Her creative life and spiritual practice now exist in a living collaboration, where divine wisdom informs every story she tells. Website, Social Media, Amazon Website: https://theakashicway.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.madeiras/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAkashicWay/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-madeiras-8b7003b/ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Akashic-Way-Living-Through-Records/dp/B0FYMWBTMM The post The Akashic Records – Get Ready for Deep Truth appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

Send a textHello Friends! Welcome back to your favorite Wednesday morning podcast! This time Robbie has started a movement , Jordan is in his feelings? i think? and they both are excited for the Olympics! Thanks for stopping by!Check out Robbie's YouTube Fitness journey!Support the showEmail us @ tidbitzwiththeboyz@gmail.com Tik Tok Instagram Facebook Check out Robbie's YouTube Fitness journey!

Laura Richards spent 33 years married to a narcissist before realizing she was being emotionally abused. Now nine months post-divorce and thriving, Laura shares the painful truth about what emotional abuse looks like from the inside—and why it took so long to recognize. Discover the subtle manipulation tactics that kept her trapped: constant devaluation, gaslighting, lack of empathy during family deaths, and the shocking discovery that her husband was likely grooming her best friend (who he's now engaged to). But more importantly, learn the exact strategies Laura used to heal: journaling, therapy, vulnerability, and finding a tribe of friends who truly support you. This episode breaks down the difference between high confidence and narcissism, explains why narcissists are often "people-pleasers," and offers hope to anyone still trapped in an emotionally abusive relationship. Topics covered: Red flags you might miss in a narcissistic relationship Gaslighting, devaluation, and emotional manipulation tactics Why narcissists lack empathy (especially during grief) The people-pleaser narcissist vs. overt narcissism How to identify healthy vs. unhealthy friendships Journaling as a healing tool Therapy and professional help Using humor to cope and survive Breaking the silence: why community matters Moving forward with hope after divorce High confidence vs. narcissism: understanding the difference Resources mentioned: Laura's Podcast: "That's Where I'm At Podcast" Website: ThatIsWhereImAt.com Amazon Journals: Divorce journals, gratitude journals, and more Available on all podcast platforms and social media Keywords: narcissistic marriage, emotional abuse, gaslighting, narcissist red flags, divorce recovery, narcissistic personality disorder, covert narcissist, emotional manipulation, healing from abuse, toxic relationships, narcissist awareness     Transcript:     

What happens when your child's mental health crisis becomes your entire world and you quietly lose yourself in the process? In this debut episode of Return to Her, a new monthly series on Pleasure in the Pause, host Gabriella Espinosa sits down with lifestyle host and midlife influencer Lizzie Bermudez for an honest conversation about walking through over three years of her daughter's mental health struggles while putting her own life completely on hold.Lizzie shares what it felt like to be her daughter's primary caretaker in survival mode, how she navigated the isolation and stigma surrounding mental health, and the turning point when she finally realized the best thing she could do for her daughter was take care of herself. This is a powerful story about caregiving, crisis, and the slow, messy, beautiful journey of coming home to yourself again.Lizzie is a lifestyle host, podcaster and midlife influencer. She helps women embrace the "middle ages" by sharing tips, tricks, and interviews about looking and feeling your best when it comes to midlife, menopause and empty nesting. Lizzie B's audience knows she doesn't take herself too seriously, and viewers love following her entertaining behind-the-scenes stories on Instagram and TikTok.  Lizzie also spent 20-plus years as an Emmy award-winning broadcast journalist and host. During that time, she interviewed everyone from celebrities to CEOs to presidents and developed the skills of storytelling and engaging viewers.  If you ask Lizzie her favorite thing about switching from traditional media to digital, she'll proudly tell you she can say just about whatever the eff she wants and no longer needs a full face of makeup to go on camera.Highlights from our discussion include:When your child struggles with mental health, the isolation is overwhelming. People don't know what to say, so they say nothing.DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) gave her family tools and a shared language to navigate emotional regulation and crisis.Learning that two things can be true at once expanded her capacity to hold conflicting emotions without judgment.Coming home to herself feels like lightness. Waking up smiling again, cortisol releasing, opening to friendships after years of isolation.Laughter was medicine. Even in the darkest days, finding one thing to laugh about each day became a survival tool.If you're in the thick of caregiving and losing yourself, if you're slowly coming back, or if you're still figuring it out—this conversation reminds you that returning to yourself is always possible. Listen now and discover that even after the most intense seasons, lightness and joy can return.CONNECT WITH LIZZIE BERMUDEZ:TikTokInstagramCONNECT WITH GABRIELLA ESPINOSA:InstagramLinkedInWork with Gabriella!  Celebrate Valentine's Week with the Oooh Palm Massager giveaway from OBO, created for midlife bodies. Leave a review for Pleasure in the Pause, screenshot it, and DM @gabriellaespinosa on Instagram to enter. Full episodes on YouTube. The information shared on Pleasure in the Pause is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health or treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or Pleasure in the Pause.

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Sunflowers and Laughter: A Kite's Lesson on Friendship Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2026-02-04-23-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El cel era d'un blau cruixent aquell matí d'hivern, esquitxat només here i allà per petits núvols com flocs de cotó.En: The sky was a crisp blue that winter morning, speckled here and there with small clouds like cotton tufts.Ca: Els gira-sols, tot i que apagats pel fred, s'alçaven majestuosament a la campanya catalana, creant un paisatge ple de serenitat.En: The sunflowers, though wilted by the cold, stood majestically in the campanya catalana, creating a landscape full of serenity.Ca: Jordí, amb un entusiasme que surava sobre les gelades terres, estava a punt de fer una demostració memorable per als seus amics, Marta i Pere.En: Jordi, with enthusiasm that drifted over the frosty land, was about to put on a memorable demonstration for his friends, Marta and Pere.Ca: "Avui veureu un gran espectacle!", va proclamar Jordi amb orgull, mostrant-los la seva cometa casolana feta de diaris vells i cordill.En: "Today you'll see a great show!" proclaimed Jordi proudly, showing them his homemade kite made from old newspapers and string.Ca: Marta li va somriure, encantada pel seu esperit optimista, mentre Pere aixecava una cella escèptica.En: Marta smiled at him, charmed by his optimistic spirit, while Pere raised a skeptical eyebrow.Ca: "És cometa això?", va dir Pere, mirant les puntes desiguals del paper.En: "Is that a kite?" asked Pere, looking at the uneven edges of the paper.Ca: "T'has passat tot el matí fent-la?". Jordi va assentir amb un somriure ferm que no es deixava desanimar.En: "Did you spend all morning making it?" Jordi nodded with a steady smile that wouldn't be discouraged.Ca: Va ser així com els tres amics es van endinsar camp a través, ignorant la frescor que els feia enrogir les galtes.En: And so, the three friends set off across the field, ignoring the chill that made their cheeks blush.Ca: Jordi va estirar el cordill i, amb un gest dramàtic, va deixar anar la cometa.En: Jordi pulled on the string and, with a dramatic gesture, let the kite go.Ca: Per un moment, els diaris es van enlairar amb una gràcia inusual, sostenint-se al aire.En: For a moment, the newspapers lifted with unusual grace, holding in the air.Ca: Però poc després, el vent capritxós va començar a girar-la en cercles descontrolats.En: But soon after, the fickle wind began to spin it in uncontrollable circles.Ca: Marta va començar a riure, amb la rialla ressonant per tot el camp.En: Marta started to laugh, her laughter echoing throughout the field.Ca: Pere, que en un principi estava a punt de dir "ja ho sabia", va acabar rient-se també, encomanat per la diversió sense malicia de la seva amiga.En: Pere, who was initially about to say "I knew it," ended up laughing as well, infected by his friend's harmless amusement.Ca: Jordi, veient la cometa ballar sense rumb, va unir-se a les rialles.En: Jordi, seeing the kite dance aimlessly, joined in the laughter.Ca: La cometa, finalment, va perdre guerra contra el vent, aterrant suaument entre els gira-sols.En: The kite finally lost its battle against the wind, landing gently among the sunflowers.Ca: Jordi va córrer a buscar-la, sense deixar de somriure.En: Jordi ran to retrieve it, still smiling.Ca: "Bé, potser no volava gaire bé, però encara és útil", va dir.En: "Well, maybe it didn't fly so well, but it's still useful," he said.Ca: Amb aquest pensament, van col·locar-la com a fons per a un impromptu pícnic.En: With this thought, they set it up as a backdrop for an impromptu picnic.Ca: Els tres companys es van seure sobre les flors seques, gaudint del so del vent entre els gira-sols i el caliu de l'amistat.En: The three friends sat on the dry flowers, enjoying the sound of the wind through the sunflowers and the warmth of friendship.Ca: Jordi es va adonar que, a vegades, era més important el viatge i amb qui el feia, que no pas la destinació final.En: Jordi realized that sometimes, the journey and who you made it with were more important than the final destination.Ca: I així, encara que la cometa no havia sigut perfectament aerodinàmica, havia aconseguit fer-los riure, que era, en el fons, el millor èxit possible.En: And so, even though the kite hadn't been perfectly aerodynamic, it had succeeded in making them laugh, which was, ultimately, the best success possible.Ca: I com el sol anava baixant, Jordi va entendre que impressionar als amics no sempre necessitava de perfecció, sinó simplement de moments compartits, rics en rialles i compassió.En: As the sun began to set, Jordi understood that impressing friends didn't always require perfection, just shared moments, rich in laughter and compassion. Vocabulary Words:the sky: el celcrisp: cruixentto speckle: esquitxarcotton tuft: floc de cotówilted: apagatthe landscape: el paisatgeserenity: serenitatenthusiasm: entusiasmeto drift: surarfrosty: geladathe demonstration: la demostracióhomemade: casolanaskeptical: escèpticuneven: desigualto blush: enrogira gesture: un gestgrace: gràciafickle: capritxósto spin: girarto echo: ressonarharmless: sense malíciaaimlessly: sense rumbthe battle: la guerrathe backdrop: el fonsthe impromptu: l'impromptuwarmth: caliuaerodynamic: aerodinàmicto impress: impressionarperfection: perfecciócompassion: compassió

For decades, Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s music went virtually unnoticed. Beginning in 1970, he released records that crossed folk, R&B, electronic music, and other genres, always seeking new territory. That changed in 2017, when his 1986 album Keyboard Fantasies was rediscovered, ushering in renewed interest in his work. Since then, Glenn—who came out as a trans man in 2002—has toured and released new music for a growing, devoted audience. In 2024, however, he was diagnosed with dementia. While at first they thought this would be the end of his performing career, Glenn and his wife, Elizabeth Copeland, are returning to play a short run of Canadian dates and releasing a new album, Laughter in Summer, on Feb. 6 via Transgressive Records. KEXP’s Dusty Henry speaks with the couple about returning to music in the face of Glenn’s diagnosis, the purpose and power of their work, and the love that binds them together. “I always considered that the music that I ‘wrote’ was sent to me from a higher source,” Glenn says. “You can't do that if you don't work at your craft, whatever it is. But if you do, and there's something special about what you're doing, then you're going to get sent some amazing stuff.” Photo credit: Wade MuirSupport the show: https://www.kexp.org/sound/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kevin Hubschmann from Laugh.Events joins us this week to explore the power of laughter in the workplace. He works with organizations to bring professional performers and facilitators into corporate settings to support professional development, team building, active listening, communication, and more. Together, Dave and Kevin discuss how humor can strengthen culture, boost engagement, and help teams connect more authentically at work.

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Wine, Books & Authentic Laughter on a Winter's Night Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2026-02-03-23-34-02-hu Story Transcript:Hu: A város peremén, a hó finoman esett a háztetőkre, miközben a kandalló melegsége kifelé ívelő füstcsíkokat eregetett.En: On the outskirts of the city, snow gently fell on the rooftops, while the warmth of the fireplace sent wisps of smoke curling outward.Hu: Béla, Enikő, és Tamás épp egy különleges estére készültek.En: Béla, Enikő, and Tamás were preparing for a special evening.Hu: Béla lelkesedése határtalan volt – azt mondta, egy bor kóstolóra mennek.En: Béla's enthusiasm was boundless – he said they were going to a wine tasting.Hu: Az utóbbi hetekben valami újat akart mutatni barátainak, valamit, amiről sosem hallottak.En: In recent weeks, he wanted to show his friends something new, something they had never heard of.Hu: Ahogy megérkeztek, a ház ajtaja kitárult, és barátságos nevetés fogadta őket.En: As they arrived, the house door swung open, and friendly laughter greeted them.Hu: Bent kellemes félhomály, a sarokban egy asztal, könyvekkel és egy üveg vörösborral.En: Inside, there was a pleasant dim light, a table in the corner with books and a bottle of red wine.Hu: Béla a szemöldökét ráncolta, de mosolygott, majd halkan megjegyezte: „Ez különleges est lesz.En: Béla raised his eyebrows but smiled, then quietly remarked, "This will be a special evening."Hu: ”Beültek a körbe, és az est folyamán az emberek elkezdték megvitatni az épp olvasott regényt.En: They sat in the circle, and throughout the evening, people began to discuss the novel they were currently reading.Hu: Enikő rápillantott Bélára, aki bólintott, azt suttogta, csak játszanak együtt, mintha tudnák, miről van szó.En: Enikő glanced at Béla, who nodded, whispering to just play along as if they knew what it was about.Hu: Tamás kicsit aggódott, de a többiek nyugodt bizalma meggyőzte őt.En: Tamás was slightly worried, but the calm confidence of the others reassured him.Hu: A beszélgetés egyre hevesebb lett.En: The conversation got more intense.Hu: Béla próbálta hozzászólni a könyv témáihoz, de csak egy borleírás jutott eszébe: „Ez az évjárat igazán… telt és gyümölcsös.En: Béla tried to contribute to the book's themes, but only a wine description came to mind: "This vintage is truly... full-bodied and fruity."Hu: ” Egy pillanatra csend lett, majd mindenki felnevetett.En: For a moment, there was silence, then everyone burst into laughter.Hu: A klub tagjai hamar rájöttek, hogy Béla, Enikő, és Tamás nem irodalmi mesterművek miatt jöttek.En: The club members quickly realized that Béla, Enikő, and Tamás did not come for literary masterpieces.Hu: De egy cseppet sem bánták.En: But they didn't mind one bit.Hu: Sőt, a helyzet hamarosan egy könnyed bor kóstoláshoz fordult, ahogy egyikük a sarokban porosodó, valódi borkóstoló anyagait elővette.En: In fact, the situation soon turned into a lighthearted wine tasting as one of them brought out real wine tasting materials that had been collecting dust in the corner.Hu: Béla megtanulta, hogy nem mindig kell mesterkedni mások lenyűgözésére.En: Béla learned that there's no need to contrive to impress others.Hu: Néha egyszerűen csak magunkat kell adni.En: Sometimes you just need to be yourself.Hu: De ez az este végül valami különlegeset is bebizonyított számára – új barátokat lehet szerezni, ha elég bátrak vagyunk önmagunk lenni.En: But that evening also proved something special to him – you can make new friends if you're brave enough to be yourself.Hu: És így, a bor és könyvek különös egyvelegével, összetalálkoztak mindannyian, a tél leghidegebb estéjén, egy meleg szobában.En: And so, with the peculiar combination of wine and books, they all came together on the coldest night of winter, in a warm room. Vocabulary Words:outskirts: pereméngently: finomanrooftops: háztetőkreenthusiasm: lelkesedéseboundless: határtalanpeculiar: különöscontrive: mesterkedniliterary: irodalmimasterpieces: mesterművekburst: felnevetettlighthearted: könnyedconviction: meggyőződéseexclaimed: megjegyeztereassured: meggyőzteinsight: bepillantástcontribute: hozzászólniranciled: ráncoltagrinned: mosolygottglanced: rápillantottremarked: megjegyeztewhispered: suttogtaintensity: hevesebbvintage: évjáratfull-bodied: teltfruity: gyümölcsösgathered: összetalálkoztakespoused: bemutatottengagement: részvételporous: porosodóembarked: indultak

Are healthcare clowns closer to artists — or to healthcare assistants? This week, we take a closer look at the work of ČERVENÝ NOS Clowndoctors, a professional organization bringing humor, empathy, and human connection into hospitals and care facilities across Slovakia. In 2025 alone, the organization carried out nearly 3,000 healthcare clown visits nationwide. Executive Director Milan Šagát explains how a wide range of specialized programs supports children, seniors, families, and medical staff — and why laughter, when taken seriously, can play a meaningful role in the healing process. In the latest episode of Slovak Sound Check, Veronika and Lubna open the calendar and guide you through days, weeks, months, and years — all the way to forming full dates in Slovak.

How has the relentless pursuit of efficiency, aided by tools like remote work, Zoom, Slack, and AI, affected our human connections? In this episode, we're exploring the cost of optimized workflows on our humanity. We delve into personal anecdotes and discuss the ramifications of isolation in the workplace and the loss of shared experiences. We also contemplate the importance of reintroducing human interactions to ensure a balanced, connected, and more fulfilled work environment.Resources:Startup Therapy Podcasthttps://www.startups.com/community/startup-therapyWebsitehttps://www.startups.com/beginLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/startups-co/Join our Network of Top FoundersWil Schroterhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/wilschroter/Ryan Rutanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-rutan/What to listen for:00:31 The Loneliness of Optimized Efficiency01:48 The Impact of Remote Work on Human Connection04:14 The Rise of AI and the Decline of Human Interaction12:41 The Evolution of Remote Work Culture17:20 The Dystopian Reality of AI Conversations20:22 The Importance of Laughter and Human Interaction21:23 Leveraging GPT for Problem Solving22:18 The Downside of Relying on AI23:45 The Value of Human Interaction in the Workplace25:09 The Impact of AI on Team Dynamics27:04 Balancing Efficiency and Human Connection29:05 The Future of Startups and Human Connection30:33 The Need for Human-Centric Work Cultures32:06 Conclusion: Embracing Humanity in the Age of AI

Fluent Fiction - Norwegian: Love, Laughter, and Potluck Magic: A Valentine's Day Surprise Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/no/episode/2026-02-02-23-34-02-no Story Transcript:No: På et lite og travelt studenthjem, der snøen falt mykt utenfor vinduene, var det Valentinsdagen.En: In a small and busy student dorm, where the snow fell softly outside the windows, it was Valentine's Day.No: Lars, en entusiastisk og håpløs romantiker, hadde storstilte planer.En: Lars, an enthusiastic and hopeless romantic, had grand plans.No: Han ønsket å imponere Solveig, den praktiske jenta med det skeptiske blikket, med et hjemmelaget måltid.En: He wanted to impress Solveig, the practical girl with the skeptical glance, with a homemade meal.No: Men Lars hadde likevel en liten utfordring: Han var ikke særlig flink på kjøkkenet.En: But Lars had a little challenge: he wasn't particularly skilled in the kitchen.No: "Mikkel, dette må virke," sa Lars nervøst, mens han leste oppskriften for tredje gang.En: "Mikkel, this has to work," said Lars nervously, as he read the recipe for the third time.No: Mikkel, hans romkamerat, stod ved siden av med et smil.En: Mikkel, his roommate, stood beside him with a smile.No: Han mente alltid vel, men likte også litt kaos.En: He always meant well, but also enjoyed a bit of chaos.No: "Slapp av, Lars.En: "Relax, Lars.No: Dette skal nok gå bra," beroliget Mikkel.En: This will probably go well," reassured Mikkel.No: Lars startet med å kutte grønnsaker.En: Lars started chopping vegetables.No: Han var så oppslukt i sine egne tanker om hvordan Solveig ville reagere, at han mistet kontrollen over stekepannen.En: He was so engrossed in his own thoughts about how Solveig would react that he lost control of the frying pan.No: Plutselig begynte røyk å fylle kjøkkenet.En: Suddenly, smoke began to fill the kitchen.No: "Alarmen!En: "The alarm!"No: " ropte Mikkel, men det var for sent.En: shouted Mikkel, but it was too late.No: Den skingrende lyden av brannalarmen fikk hele bygningen til å våkne til live.En: The shrill sound of the fire alarm brought the whole building to life.No: Studenter, pakket i pysjamas og vinterjakker, hastet mot utgangene, mens de ga Lars og hans svartsvidde middag meningsfulle blikk.En: Students, bundled in pajamas and winter jackets, hurried towards the exits, while they gave Lars and his charred dinner meaningful looks.No: Ute i kulden samlet studentene seg sammen.En: Out in the cold, the students gathered together.No: Lars stod der, skamfull, men fast bestemt på å ikke gi opp.En: Lars stood there, ashamed but determined not to give up.No: Han så på Solveig fra avstand.En: He looked at Solveig from a distance.No: Hun smilte svakt, noe som ga ham et snev av håp.En: She smiled faintly, which gave him a glimmer of hope.No: Han gikk tilbake inn i bygningen så snart brannmennene hadde bekreftet at det ikke var noen fare.En: He went back inside the building as soon as the firefighters confirmed there was no danger.No: Lars ryddet raskt opp og bestemte seg for å tenke raskt.En: Lars quickly cleaned up and decided to think on his feet.No: Han ropte ut til folkemengden.En: He called out to the crowd.No: "Hei alle sammen!En: "Hey everyone!No: Hva med et spontant potluck måltid?En: How about a spontaneous potluck meal?No: Ta med noe enkelt dere har på rommene, så kan vi ha en liten feiring likevel!En: Bring something simple you have in your rooms, and we can have a small celebration anyway!"No: "Folkemengden svarte entusiastisk, en etter en dro de frem snacks og enkle retter fra rommene sine.En: The crowd responded enthusiastically; one by one, they brought out snacks and simple dishes from their rooms.No: Stemningen ble snart varm og hyggelig.En: The atmosphere soon became warm and pleasant.No: Det lille kjøkkenet gikk fra smelling av røyk til lukten av ulike hjemmelagde retter og latter.En: The little kitchen went from smelling of smoke to the scent of various homemade dishes and laughter.No: Solveig gikk bort til Lars, med et overbærende smil.En: Solveig walked over to Lars, with an indulgent smile.No: "Jeg liker dette bedre enn et fancy måltid, Lars.En: "I like this better than a fancy meal, Lars.No: Du vet hvordan du kan lage et godt kaos.En: You know how to create good chaos."No: "Lars lo lettet, mens han så rundt på menneskene som koste seg.En: Lars laughed with relief, as he looked around at the people enjoying themselves.No: "Teamarbeid, ikke sant?En: "Teamwork, right?"No: "Kvelden ble en uventet suksess, takket være Lars's evne til å improvisere og litt hjelp fra hans venner i studenthjemmet.En: The evening became an unexpected success, thanks to Lars's ability to improvise and a little help from his friends in the dorm.No: Gjennom snøens stille fall utenfor vinduene, forstod Lars at det var det ekte forsøket og fellesskapet som gjorde dagen spesiell, ikke perfeksjon.En: Through the quiet fall of snow outside the windows, Lars realized that it was the genuine effort and community that made the day special, not perfection. Vocabulary Words:dorm: studenthjementusiastic: entusiastiskhopeless: håpløsimpress: imponerepractical: praktisksceptical: skeptiskehomemade: hjemmelagetskill: flinkrecipe: oppskriftnervously: nervøstchaotic: kaosengrossed: oppsluktcontrol: kontrollalarm: alarmshrill: skingrendecharred: svartsviddegathered: samletashamed: skamfulldetermined: fast bestemtfaintly: svaktglimmer: snevfirefighters: brannmennenespontaneous: spontantenthusiastically: entusiastiskwarm: varmpleasant: hyggeligindulgent: overbærendeimprovise: improviseregenuine: ektecommunity: fellesskap

What if wellbeing isn't something you achieve, but instead something you practice?In this guest episode of The Secret Formula of Femininity, Dr. Nicole Monteiro is joined by former mentor, Dr. Siddharth Ashvin Shah, MD, MPH | Founder & President of Greenleaf Integrative (greenleafintegrative.com), for a rich, grounded conversation on laughter and joy as intentional wellbeing practices, not fleeting emotions or personality traits.Together, they explore how wellbeing can be operationalized through daily competencies — including emotional flexibility, nervous system regulation, and the capacity for joy, especially in high-stress, high-responsibility lives.In this conversation, we discuss:Why laughter is a regulatory practice, not a reactionHow joy supports emotional resilience and stress recoveryThe difference between happiness, pleasure, and embodied joyWhy modern wellbeing frameworks often miss the relational and collective dimensionHow laughter shifts the nervous system out of survival modeSimple ways to practice joy without forcing positivityThis episode is for anyone who:• feels burned out by “doing all the right things”• struggles to feel lightness even when life is good• wants a more embodied, sustainable approach to wellbeingReflection Question:When was the last time you practiced joy — not waited for it?Follow Dr. Shah's work at greenleafintegrative.com------------------------------Links to the breath work demonstrations referenced in the episode:Guided meditations & Yoga nidra by Dr. Shah - https://bio.to/greenleaf-integrativeLaughter yoga led by Nisha Gautam - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYtG-i2TJJY&t=10sABC News features laughter with Dr. Shah - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLrTOBiiwgUProfessional wellbeing consulting by Dr. Shah - https://www.greenleafintegrative.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-secret-formula-of-femininity/exclusive-content

Fluent Fiction - Norwegian: Building Laughter: A Snowman's Tale in Vigelandsparken Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/no/episode/2026-02-01-08-38-20-no Story Transcript:No: I Vigelandsparken i Oslo, en kald vintermorgen, var luften fylt med forventning og små flak av snø.En: In Vigelandsparken in Oslo, on a cold winter morning, the air was filled with anticipation and small flakes of snow.No: Siv var allerede i parken.En: Siv was already in the park.No: Hun var ivrig for snømann-konkurransen.En: She was eager for the snowman competition.No: Ved hennes side var Leif, som alltid med et smil, klar for å tulle.En: By her side was Leif, always with a smile, ready to joke around.No: "Vi bygger verdens mest morsomme snømann!En: "We're building the world's funniest snowman!"No: " sa Leif og lo.En: said Leif, laughing.No: Han kastet en snøball i været, traff nesten Siv.En: He threw a snowball into the air, nearly hitting Siv.No: Siv smilte, men tankene hennes var andre steder.En: Siv smiled, but her thoughts were elsewhere.No: Hun ville vinne konkurransen.En: She wanted to win the competition.No: Mest fordi hun ønsket å imponere Astrid, som var opptatt med å ta bilder av alle deltakere.En: Mostly because she wanted to impress Astrid, who was busy taking pictures of all the participants.No: Astrid så alltid så dypt inn i menneskene hun observerte.En: Astrid always looked so deeply into the people she observed.No: Siv håpet Astrid ville se dypt inn i henne.En: Siv hoped Astrid would see deeply into her.No: Parken var vakker med trær dekket av hvit snø, og folk som bygde snømenn i ulike former.En: The park was beautiful with trees covered in white snow, and people building snowmen in various shapes.No: Siv følte presset.En: Siv felt the pressure.No: Hun måtte lage noe spesielt.En: She had to create something special.No: Leif fortsatte å tøyse.En: Leif continued to joke.No: "Hva med en snømann med tre hoder?En: "What about a snowman with three heads?"No: " ropte han og begynte å stable snøballer.En: he shouted, beginning to stack snowballs.No: Plutselig ble stillheten brutt av folk som ropte i ekstase.En: Suddenly, the silence was broken by people shouting in excitement.No: En kjent turist, en berømt skuespiller, hadde sluttet seg til folkemengden.En: A famous tourist, a well-known actor, had joined the crowd.No: Alt ble kaos, folk samlet seg rundt kjendisens snømann.En: Everything turned chaotic as people gathered around the celebrity's snowman.No: Siv så at Astrid tok bilder av det som skjedde.En: Siv saw Astrid taking pictures of what was happening.No: Siv sukket.En: Siv sighed.No: Hun måtte tenke annerledes.En: She needed to think differently.No: Hva om hun samarbeidet med Leif og brukte hans humor til noe positivt?En: What if she collaborated with Leif and used his humor for something positive?No: "Leif!En: "Leif!"No: " sa hun, med ny energi.En: she said, with new energy.No: "Vi lager en snømann med et morsomt uttrykk.En: "Let's make a snowman with a funny expression.No: En så morsom snømann at den blir uforglemmelig.En: A snowman so funny that it becomes unforgettable."No: "Sammen kastet de seg over snøen.En: Together they threw themselves into the snow.No: Leif kom med de sprøeste forslag, og Siv fant måter å virkeliggjøre dem på.En: Leif came up with the craziest ideas, and Siv found ways to bring them to life.No: Resultatet var en snømann med et stort smil, en lue på snei og et skjerf knyttet på en artig måte.En: The result was a snowman with a big smile, a hat tilted to the side, and a scarf tied in a funny way.No: Akkurat da var det stjernen, turisten, som snublet og tok med seg snømannen til de andre deltakerne.En: Just then, the star, the tourist, stumbled and took down their snowman along with the other participants'.No: Kollapsen var et faktum.En: The collapse was a fact.No: Hva som fulgte var overraskende.En: What followed was surprising.No: Alle lo, og begynte å bygge opp igjen snømannen, inkludert Astrid.En: Everyone laughed and began rebuilding the snowman, including Astrid.No: Hun så på Siv og sa, "Du har en flott sans for humor.En: She looked at Siv and said, "You have a great sense of humor."No: "Siv skjønte noe viktig.En: Siv realized something important.No: Det var ikke konkurransen, men gleden og latteren sammen med venner som talte mest.En: It wasn't the competition, but the joy and laughter shared with friends that mattered most.No: Denne dagen i Vigelandsparken, ble et minne fylt med latter, og en ny start ikke bare for snømenn, men for vennskaper.En: This day in Vigelandsparken, became a memory filled with laughter, and a new start not just for snowmen, but for friendships.No: Siv så Astrid i øynene og følte varmen fra de små snøflakene som falt rundt dem.En: Siv looked into Astrid's eyes and felt the warmth from the small snowflakes falling around them.No: I det øyeblikket, fant hun en ny ro i bare å være til stede.En: In that moment, she found a new peace in just being present. Vocabulary Words:anticipation: forventningflourishing: blomstrecollaborate: samarbeidetimpending: foreståendeexpression: uttrykkstumbled: snubletchaotic: kaospresence: tilstedeværelsepressure: pressetobserve: observertecompetition: konkurransencollapse: kollapsenecstasy: ekstaseemerged: dukke opphumor: humorimpress: imponereunforgettable: uforglemmeligsurprising: overraskendecrucial: viktigpotential: potensialnotorious: berømtexcitement: spenninginclined: skrådetermination: besluttsomhetnostalgic: nostalgiskenthusiasm: entusiasmeremarkable: bemerkelsesverdigmemorable: minneverdigobservation: observasjonsincere: oppriktig

42, not 67, is still the answer. We begin the end of a 20-year run today. SPaMCAST 884 will mark the planned end of new interview content. There are several pieces of content that we still have to publish. Still to come: An audio play written by David Herron and me. The SPaMCAST players provided the voice talent! A review of several podcasts that changed my professional life. A retrospective. Anthony's Bio Anthony coaches and trains Agile Leaders to help them understand Agile and Scrum and how to create an environment where people come first, productivity is high and teamwork is effective and enjoyable. He is also the author of two books, Agile Project Management and Emotional Intelligence for Project Managers. Website: https://www.vitalitychicago.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonymersino/ Mastering Work Intake sponsors SPaMCAST! Starting Everything Means Finishing Nothing One big thing: Poor work entry means delivering less. Why it matters: Work Intake controls what a team works on and when they work on it. Overloaded teams deliver less value. Poor prioritization leads to delivering the wrong work. Chaotic work intake costs organizations money and time. Zoom in: Mastering Work Intake by Jeremy Willets and Tom Cagley provides the reader with ideas, principles, actionable advice, worksheets, and examples to deliver more value. Buy a copy! JRoss Publishing: https://bit.ly/474ul6G Amazon: https://amzn.to/4236013 Next! We will have a short hiatus, 2 or 3 weeks, before the audio drama lands!

 Yep. We recorded our first episode on January 31, 2019 and we are in the top 2.74% of all podcasts in terms of our longevity. Thanks for sticking with us and enjoy more dick jokes!

Season 3 Episode 2 of the pod is here and we're using our Patreon funded upgraded sound software! Thank you to all who support us! The quality is better from here on because of you! This week Audree, L, and Christie discuss "The Kids Are Alright" and "Bad Day at Black Rock." Also, we have to thank our listeners for the sound quality and editing process of this podcast being upgraded! As of this episode, S03E02, Patreon has allowed us to upgrade our Zoom and make recording and editing much easier, and has allowed more equipment for sound recording to be improved. THANK YOU!!! Check out the episode links for this one because there are a TON. Don't forget to check out the visuals for this episode on Instagram, drop comments of your thoughts on our takes, and rate/like and subscribe! Episode Links: Full episode of Are You Afraid of the Dark: “The Tale of the Laughter in the Dark” “Down Bad” by Taylor Swift “True to Your Heart” by 98 Degrees Kylo Ren “MORE” meme Our host, Audree, got engaged.  Friday the 13th (2009) Christmas Cottage (2008) Ed and Lorraine Warren Annabelle going on tour across America The 5 Second Foreshadowing Trope Michael Masse and the tragedy of The Crow Like/Rate/Review & Subscribe to the show on: Apple Spotify Youtube Patreon And anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Email us at: samgirlretrospectivepod@gmail.com Follow us on IG for visuals and updates. Follow us on Tiktok for clips and memes. Images from Supernatural Archive.

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Connor Little discuss a variety of topics related to hunting culture in Texas, including the impact of weather on outdoor activities, the role of social media in mental health, and the differences in hunting practices across the state. They delve into the economics of hunting, the ethics of baiting, and the diversity of landscapes that influence deer hunting experiences. Connor shares his personal journey in hunting and the upcoming launch of his new podcast, 'Deep in the Hunt of Texas. Takeaways Texas is experiencing unusual weather with ice storms affecting outdoor activities. Laughter can be a powerful motivator during workouts, as shared by Connor. Doom scrolling on social media can negatively impact mental health. The culture of hunting in Texas varies significantly across regions. Baiting practices in Texas are common and often necessary for attracting deer. The economics of hunting in Texas has shifted towards a corporate model with high fence ranches. The rut for whitetails varies across Texas, affecting hunting strategies. Texas Parks and Wildlife manages deer populations with specific regulations for different counties. The ethics of feeding and baiting deer is a topic of debate among hunters. Connor's new podcast will explore the rich history and culture of hunting in Texas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Connor Little discuss a variety of topics related to hunting culture in Texas, including the impact of weather on outdoor activities, the role of social media in mental health, and the differences in hunting practices across the state. They delve into the economics of hunting, the ethics of baiting, and the diversity of landscapes that influence deer hunting experiences. Connor shares his personal journey in hunting and the upcoming launch of his new podcast, 'Deep in the Hunt of Texas. Takeaways Texas is experiencing unusual weather with ice storms affecting outdoor activities. Laughter can be a powerful motivator during workouts, as shared by Connor. Doom scrolling on social media can negatively impact mental health. The culture of hunting in Texas varies significantly across regions. Baiting practices in Texas are common and often necessary for attracting deer. The economics of hunting in Texas has shifted towards a corporate model with high fence ranches. The rut for whitetails varies across Texas, affecting hunting strategies. Texas Parks and Wildlife manages deer populations with specific regulations for different counties. The ethics of feeding and baiting deer is a topic of debate among hunters. Connor's new podcast will explore the rich history and culture of hunting in Texas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textWhat if laughter wasn't just a reaction—but a daily practice for better health, clarity, and connection?In this uplifting episode of Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations, Joey Pinz sits down with Cathy Nesbitt, internationally recognized as the Laughter Ambassador, to explore how intentional laughter can shift your body, mind, and energy—fast.Cathy breaks down laughter yoga, a practice rooted in science and breathwork that helps the body release dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins—what she calls being “in charge of your own pharma.” Together, they discuss how laughter improves oxygen flow to the brain, reduces stress, boosts immunity, and even helps people cope with pain, trauma, and burnout.The conversation goes deep into why joy is always available, how routine and intention shape our wellbeing, and why laughter works even when life feels heavy. Cathy also leads a short, live laughter exercise—proving you don't need jokes, props, or a reason to laugh… just permission.If you're looking for a practical, human, and powerful way to feel better—this episode will leave you lighter, clearer, and smiling.

Send us a textHello Friends! Welcome back to your favorite Wednesday morning podcast! This time Robbie is struggling, Jordan loves animals and they both went to a murder mystery dinner this past weekend! Thanks for stopping by!Support the showEmail us @ tidbitzwiththeboyz@gmail.com Tik Tok Instagram Facebook

Welcome back to Beats Vines & Life! In this episode, hosts MJ Towler and Rob S introduce us to the vibrant world of Schermeister Audio, featuring the dynamic winemaking duo Laura S and Rob S. Get ready for an unfiltered and wildly entertaining conversation that blurs the lines between wine, music, and living life to the fullest.From tales of Idaho roots to tattoo regrets, bold love stories, and the art of crafting wines that are as memorable as they are delicious, this episode peels back the curtain on what it really takes to make it in the wine industry—and have a little fun along the way. The trio dive into why wine is so much more than what's in the glass: it's a social lubricant, a marker of life's big moments, a creative journey, and yes, sometimes it's "tits in a glass."So pour yourself something bold and get ready for laughs, revelations, and a behind-the-scenes look at a Sonoma couple rewriting the rules of wine, love, and lifestyle. This is the episode where high art, irreverence, and heartfelt storytelling meet. Cheers!For more information about Schermeister Wineryclick the link!Follow Schermeister Winery on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine ReviewsGo to the-vines.com and use code BLACKWINEGUY to unlock member pricing and join their community for just $395, plus get a case of wines they make with their partners. (U.S. addresses only.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In October 1982, journalist Lester Kinsolving asked the White House press secretary about a mysterious disease that had already killed hundreds of Americans. The response? Laughter. For years, as the death toll climbed into the tens of thousands, President Ronald Reagan said nothing. His administration did less. This is the story of what happens when a government decides some lives don't matter—and the activists, doctors, and ordinary people who refused to let their community die in silence.

"Among those I admire, I find no common denominator. But among those I love, I can; they all make me laugh!" (W.H. Auden)

Join Rabbi Joey Rosenfeld as he guides us through the world and major works of Kabbalah, Hasidic masters, and Jewish philosophy, shedding light on the inner life of the soul. To learn more, visit InwardTorah.org

Laughter Isn't Just Medicine... It's The Solution Most People Are Missing

Patrick shares how being a grandfather to 32 (and counting) shapes his understanding of the important bond between grandparents and grandchildren, weaving in personal traditions, childhood memories, and practical snack secrets involving Slim Jims and fruit snacks. He responds to callers’ stories about discipline, letting adult children develop their own parenting methods, and the surprises that come with family caregiving, while addressing everything from Mass translations to keeping faith traditions alive. Laughter, honesty, even a few debates spark throughout, as Patrick moves between heartfelt advice and the everyday realities of grandparent life. Children who have strong, consistent relationships with their grandparents often experience better emotional wellbeing (01:01) Mary - Have you ever had to correct your grandkids? For example, if they are going to hit another kid. (17:25) Steve – We, as Grandparents, cut down a Christmas tree every year and make walking sticks out of the trunk and use it for the Walk to Mary. (22:47) Cindy – It gets complicated when the grandparent is raising a grandchild. (25:25) Kathy - Why did the name of Churches in my area change? (27:43) Jessica (email) - How do you handle fights between grandchildren? (35:22) Timothy - Before a priest became a priest, is it okay if he had a girlfriend or is that a mortal sin? (36:56) Bill - Why did the Patriarchs of the Church in Jerusalem issue that statement about Christian Zionists? (42:01) Robert - You were talking about Latin translations into English. I translate the Spanish into English. (46:35)

Did Trump embarrass America at Davos — or did he do exactly what world leaders fear most?

When she was 14, Krystal Evans survived a lethal house fire. Years later, to come to terms with what she'd experienced, she turned it into a stand-up show. The women in Krystal's family have always been funny, she says; her mother was no exception. But as well as being hilarious she also struggled with mental illness, and life in Krystal's childhood was chaotic. With very little money, the family would move from place to place, Krystal would miss months of school and often be left to take care of her younger sister alone. When Krystal was 14, chaos turned to tragedy when a fire engulfed their mobile home in Washington State. Not everyone survived. Krystal buried the experience and tried to move on with her life, but years later, while working as a comedian, she decided to confront her memories of the fire – by turning them into a hit stand-up show: The Hottest Girl at Burn Camp.Presenter: Jo Fidgen Producers: Caroline Ferguson and Zoe GelberLives Less Ordinary is a podcast from the BBC World Service that brings you the most incredible true stories from around the world. Each episode a guest shares their most dramatic, moving, personal story. Listen for unbelievable twists, mysteries uncovered, and inspiring journeys - spanning the entire human experience. Step into someone else's life and expect the unexpected.   Got a story to tell? Send an email to liveslessordinary@bbc.co.uk or message us via WhatsApp: 0044 330 678 2784   You can read our privacy notice here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/5YD3hBqmw26B8WMHt6GkQxG/lives-less-ordinary-privacy-notice

Full Show Notes: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/lnleland/ From the science behind sunlight, circadian lighting, and EMFs to practical tips on breathwork, cold exposure, and personalized nutrition, this wide-ranging conversation is packed with actionable insights. You'll learn why optimizing your external environment—light, air, water, and even mindset—is just as vital as what you eat, plus discover how environmental factors can impact everything from immune health to sleep quality. Whether you're a health enthusiast or just curious about leveling up your wellbeing, this episode delivers a blend of cutting-edge science and real-world strategies that will inspire you to rethink your daily routine. Dr. Leland Stillman is one interesting doctor and a man after my own heart - meaning he's interested in everything from how polar bears use cold thermogenesis and hibernation to enhance longevity to how your environment drastically shapes your health no matter how hard you exercise or how perfectly you eat. He became interested in natural and integrative medicine at an early age. After majoring in environmental health at Connecticut College and earning his medical doctorate from the University of Virginia School of Medicine, Dr. Stillman completed his training in internal medicine at Maine Medical Center. Board-certified in internal medicine and specializing in integrative medicine, he has a passion for doing whatever it takes to discover the root cause of his patients' medical problems through advanced laboratory testing and then addressing those imbalances with dietary or lifestyle interventions. Dr. Stillman focuses not only on the patient but on all aspects of the environment they live in. Some of Dr. Stillman's professional interests include phototherapy (photobiomodulation), nutrition, toxicology, and the immune system. Episode Sponsors: Troscriptions: Explore Troscriptions' revolutionary buccal troche delivery system that bypasses digestion to deliver pharmaceutical-grade, physician-formulated health optimization compounds directly through your cheek mucosa for faster onset and higher bioavailability than traditional supplements. Discover a completely new way to optimize your health at troscriptions.com/BEN or enter BEN at checkout for 10% off your first order. LVLUP Health: I trust and recommend LVLUP Health for your peptide needs as they third-party test every single batch of their peptides to ensure you’re getting exactly what you pay for and the results you’re after! Head over to lvluphealth.com/BGL and use code BEN15 for a special discount on their game-changing range of products. Qualia: Support better aging with Qualia Senolytic and boost brain health with Qualia Mind—two of my favorites! Visit qualialife.com/boundless and use code BOUNDLESS for 15% off your order. Ultimate Longevity: Ready to hack your sleep and stay grounded while recovering? Head to ultimatelongevity.com/ben to get your hands on grounding mats for your mattress, pillow, blankets, and other valuable tools to help you bring down your inflammation and jumps start your healing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We kick things off with the existential dread of FOLLOW UP and the absolute joy of jury duty. While xAI's Grok is busy getting banned in Malaysia and Indonesia for its CSAM-generating "features," the Senate is unanimously passing the DEFIANCE Act to give us some legal teeth against the deepfake machine. Meta is busy nuking 550,000 Australian accounts to appease regulators, while Roblox's age verification is so broken that a drawing of stubble or a photo of Kurt Cobain can get you into the adult lounge. Moving IN THE NEWS, Meta is trading its $70 billion Metaverse graveyard for a Reality Labs layoff and a pivot to AI hardware, fueled by an "AI infrastructure" buildout that's hiring former Trump advisors. Bandcamp is heroically banning AI "slop," Matthew McConaughey is trademarking his own face to fend off the bots, and ICE's AI hiring tool is such a disaster it's accidentally fast-tracking mall security as "officers." Between self-help gurus charging $99 for chatbot "advice," GM finally settling its driver-spying suit with the FTC, and NASA prepping for a February moon shot while China plans to launch 200,000 satellites into our already crowded orbit, the future looks exactly as messy as we expected.For MEDIA CANDY, we've got Lord of the Rings marathons, the diner-bridge of Starfleet Academy, and the usual joy of streaming price hikes hitting our "Premium" plans. We're tracking the 2025 "In Memoriam" and Gabriel Pagan's exhaustive movie list before sliding into APPS & DOODADS. Jony Ive and Sam Altman are reportedly building an hearing aide called "Sweetpea" to kill your AirPods, Siri is officially Google Gemini's new puppet, and Apple is finally bundling its creative apps into a "Creator Studio" subscription trap. Tesla is making Full Self-Driving a subscription-only Valentine's gift (good luck with that), Ring is rebranding surveillance as a "fire-watching" assistant, and a Chinese app called "Are You Dead?" is the new must-have for the lonely. To cap it off, the internet proved its maturity by using "Words.zip"—an infinite word-search grid—to draw a giant phallus, because of course they did.AT THE LIBRARY features the Anthony Bourdain Reader, the return of Bob in the new Laundry Files book, and Jimmy Carr's guide to happiness, which is apparently cheaper than therapy. Then we descend into THE DARK SIDE WITH DAVE, where the dishwasher-installing, ham-radio-lunching Dave Bittner reveals Disney World has job openings for those of us who spent high school in the AV club. Lucasfilm is finally entering a new era as Kathleen Kennedy steps down, just as Galaxy's Edge admits the original trilogy exists, and we wrap it all up with lock-picking kits and the terrifying realization that Seymour from H.R. Pufnstuf is the ultimate Gen-X fursona.Sponsors:DeleteMe - Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use promo code GOG at checkout.Gusto - Try Gusto today at gusto.com/grumpy, and get three months free when you run your first payroll.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/729Watch on YouTube! https://youtu.be/1Y1jnRDw7g0FOLLOW UPMalaysia and Indonesia are the first to block Grok following CSAM scandalSenate passes Defiance Act for a second time to address Grok deepfakesMeta closes 550,000 accounts to comply with Australia's kids social media banRoblox's age verification system is reportedly a trainwreckIN THE NEWSMeta refocuses on AI hardware as metaverse layoffs beginMeta's Layoffs Leave Supernatural Fitness Users in MourningMeta Creates High-Powered Team to Oversee AI Infrastructure BuildoutBandcamp prohibits music made ‘wholly or in substantial part' by AIMatthew McConaughey fights unauthorized AI likenesses by trademarking himselfICE's AI Tool Has Been a Complete DisasterSelf-Help Ghouls Are Charging People Absurd Prices to Talk to Impersonator ChatbotsThe FTC's data-sharing order against GM is finally settledNASA is ending Crew-11 astronauts' mission a month earlyNASA makes final preparations for its first crewed moon mission in over 50 yearsAs SpaceX Works Toward 50K Starlink Satellites, China Eyes Deploying 200KMEDIA CANDYBeast Games Season 2Star Trek: Starfleet AcademyGrumpy Old ListThe Ongoing History of New Music, episode 1069: 2025 in MemoriamDepeche Mode: MAPPS & DOODADSJony Ive and Sam Altman's First AI Gadget May Try to Kill AirPodsApple's Siri AI will be powered by GeminiApple's Mac and iPad creative apps get bundled into “Creator Studio” subscriptionTesla's Full Self-Driving is switching to a subscription-only serviceRing founder details the camera company's 'intelligent assistant' eraAre You Dead?: The viral Chinese app for young people living aloneGive the Internet an Infinite Word Search and the Internet Will Draw a Dick on ItAT THE LIBRARYThe Anthony Bourdain Reader: New, Classic, and Rediscovered Writing by Anthony BourdainObvious Adams: The Story of a Successful Businessman by Robert UpdegraffBefore & Laughter by Jimmy CarrThe Regicide Report (Laundry Files, 14) by Charles StrossTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingHow to Read a Book: A Novel by Monica WoodWalt Disney World Resort is looking for Entertainment Stage TechniciansGalaxy's Edge Will Soon Cover All Eras of ‘Star Wars'Kathleen Kennedy steps down as Lucasfilm president, marking a new era for the Star Wars franchiseSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When children grow up and look back on their childhood, what do they remember most about their parents? It turns out it's not what many parents assume. This episode begins with research revealing which parenting behaviors leave the strongest, longest-lasting impressions — and how they shape adult relationships. https://time.com/4097995/parenting-kids-remember/ Some emotions can completely hijack your day. Anger, anxiety, frustration, and stress often feel automatic — as if you have no control once they show up. But that's not actually true. Dr. Ryan Martin explains science-backed ways to regulate emotions both before they spiral and in the moment. Ryan is Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, and author of several books on emotions, including Emotion Hacks: 50 Ways to Feel Better Fast (https://amzn.to/4qrv9fj). Laughter feels good — but why do we do it? And why do humans laugh so much more than other animals? Is laughter actually good for your health, or is it just enjoyable? And what makes something funny in the first place? Christopher Duffy joins me to unpack the science and psychology of laughter. He's a comedian, television writer, host of the TED podcast How to Be a Better Human, and author of Humor Me: How Laughing More Can Make You Present, Creative, Connected, and Happy (https://amzn.to/3LjKOyi). And finally, you've probably heard you should never let your gas tank drop below a quarter full — but is that really true? We wrap up by separating myth from reality and explaining when low fuel actually matters and when it doesn't. https://www.carparts.com/blog/fact-or-myth-driving-with-less-than-a-quarter-of-a-tank-of-fuel-is-bad-for-your-car/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices