Podcasts about Loud

On this week's Spectator Out Loud: Cosmo Landesman says life is too short to watch boring shows; Alex Diggins reports back from the Bukhara art biennial; Lucy Dunn provides her notes on BuzzBallz – which featured at the Spectator's Christmas party; and, Richard Bratby reviews L'amour des trois oranges at the Royal Northern College of Music and Ariodante at the Royal Opera House. Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2026 starts the only way it should — LOUD.Episode 405 kicks off a brand-new year of RadioBypass with fresh, fire-breathing rock and roll from bands who are keeping the spirit alive and kicking down doors. This is not background noise. This is music that demands your attention.This week's new rock and roll music that DESERVES to be heard comes fromNight Terror, Dangerous Toys, Helix, Tailgunner, John Corabi, Carmine, Engines Of Ruin, Wasted Wizards, Novakain, and Return To Dust.Veterans, rising forces, and underground killers — all delivering riffs, hooks, and attitude the way it's supposed to be done.And because RadioBypass never forgets where it came from, we balance the new blood with firepower fromThe FA, Racer X, Ozzy Osbourne, and Aerosmith — proof that true rock and roll doesn't age, it just gets louder in your memory.Episode 405 isn't about trends.It's about guitars turned up, choruses that hit you in the chest, and the kind of rock that makes you remember why you fell in love with this music in the first place.New year. Same mission.Rock and roll music that DESERVES to be heard.Crank it up and welcome to 2026 — RadioBypass style.

Please follow/subscribe! Click here for more: https://sleep.whitenoiseplaylist.com/snooze  10 hours of brown noise for deep sleep. Perfect for adults, kids, or babies to sleep through the night or during nap time. Brown noise is a type of sound that is similar to white noise, but with a lower frequency. Some people find that listening to brown noise before going to sleep can help them fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep longer. This is because brown noise can help to mask other sounds that might be present in the environment, such as traffic or a partner's snoring, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. In addition to masking background noise, brown noise may also help to slow down brain activity, which can promote relaxation and make it easier to fall asleep. The lower frequency of brown noise is also thought to be closer to the natural frequency of the human brain, which can make it more calming and soothing than other types of noise. Some people may find other types of noise, such as white noise or pink noise, sounds more soothing. It's always good idea to try different type of noise to see what works best for you. Other gentle sounds, such as nature sounds, can also be helpful for sleep. These sounds can be calming and help create a relaxing atmosphere, making it easier to wind down and get a good night's rest. So, if you're having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, try incorporating our brown noise or other gentle sounds into your bedtime routine. It could make all the difference in getting a good night's rest. Sweet dreams! DISCLAIMER: Do not turn the volume up so high that you are unable to have a regular conversation. Loud sounds can potentially damage your hearing. While listening, make sure the sound is at a reasonable volume. Do not place speakers next to a child's ears. If you have difficulty hearing or hear ringing in your ears, please immediately discontinue listening and consult an audiologist or physician.

Am I the Jerk? is the show where you can confess your deepest darkest secrets and be part of the conversation.

Amiga, it's a season of Reigniting Your Inner Spark! Join us for an evening of inspiration and connecting with like-minded women. Happening Thursday, Jan 8th at 7 pm cst. Best of all, it's virtual. Click here to RSVP Amiga… you are NOT your unmet expectations!Not the timeline. Not the plan that didn't happen. Not the version of life you thought you'd be living by now, or where you thought your creative projects would be by now. If self-doubt has been LOUD for you this season, grab your cafecito and a notebook because this episode is a reminder that who you are in God's eyes has never depended on an outcome. This Cafecito chat is for the Mujer, who keeps wondering if she's behind. We're releasing the timelines, the labels, and the pressure to be “further by now.” Make sure to share this episode with your Amigas, together we shine brighter! Follow The Fearless Mujer Podcast on IG @thefearlessmujerpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Week 17 is in the books and the playoff picture is LOUD.We break down the AFC + NFC standings going into Week 17, run through the key Week 17 results, then lay out the Week 18 playoff scenarios—including:NFC South “do or die” (Bucs/Panthers/Falcons/Saints outcomes)NFC West battle for the #1 seed (Seattle vs San Francisco)AFC South division race (Jags vs Texans)AFC North winner-take-all (Steelers vs Ravens)Seeding fights in the NFC North / NFC EastDrop your picks in the comments: Who gets the #1 seeds? Who wins the NFC South mess?#NFL #Playoffs #Week17 #Week18 #AFC #NFC

Olivia Dean has been everywhere in 2025 - critical praise, charting singles, award show buzz, and co-signs from the industry's biggest names. But does her highly anticipated sophomore album "The Art of Loving" actually deliver?In this episode, Chris and Chantel Nicole go track by track through the full project, discussing the vocals, lyrics, production, and pacing. From standout moments like "Nice to Each Other" and "Man I Need" to songs that left us wanting more, we break down whether the album matches the artistry everyone sees in her - or if the hype got ahead of the music.Join us on Patreon!: https://www.patreon.com/CCTVPOPSFollow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cctvpops0:00 - Intro0:59 - "The Art of Loving" Album Info2:09 - Album Cover3:47 - "The Art of Loving (Intro)"5:47 - "Nice To Each Other"12:58 - "Lady Lady"19:17 - "Close Up"24:08 - "So Easy (To Fall In Love)"31:31 - "Let Alone The One You Love"37:14 - "Man I Need"46:43 - "Something Inbetween"50:27 - "Loud"56:35 - "Baby Steps"1:00:07 - "A Couple Minutes"1:06:19 - "I've Seen It"1:11:39 - Cut or Keep1:14:05 - Overall Thoughts & Final RatingReferences:“Nice To Each Other” MV https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VI0NDsh2b8k&pp=ygUebmljZSB0byBlYWNoIG90aGVyIG9saXZpYSBkZWFu “Lady Lady” MV https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JN_Vyg_wURY&pp=ygUVbGFkeSBsYWR5IG9saXZpYSBkZWFu “Close Up” Live at bed Ina's Nacht https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoyu1ZgtCpY&pp=ygUUb2xpdmlhIGRlYW4gY2xvc2UgdXDSBwkJTQoBhyohjO8%3D “So Easy (To Fall In Love) MV https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sur4BmjQt8&pp=ygUTc28gZWFzeSBvbGl2aWEgZGVhbtIHCQlNCgGHKiGM7w%3D%3D “Man I Need” MV https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIv_Y2RPQ_A&pp=ygUWbWFuIGkgbmVlZCBvbGl2aWEgZGVhbg%3D%3D Recording “Loud” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyHJFP4kRjI&pp=ygUQb2xpdmlhIGRlYW4gbG91ZA%3D%3D “A Couple Minutes” (A COLORS SHOW) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euYe6W7d-rI&pp=ygUcb2xpdmlhIGRlYW4gYSBjb3VwbGUgbWludXRlcw%3D%3D

Amazon ‘Fiction': Part 1 The adventure begins. Based on a post by Farmer Jill, in 3 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. It all started with one woman's desire to prove that Amazons existed. Yes, that's right those legendary female warriors. Her name was Sylvia Riesling, the heiress to the Riesling billions. She was completely obsessed with the Amazons. Sylvia had commissioned a big international conference on the Amazons in Frankfurt Germany. I, Nelson James, was the keynote speaker. I am a professor of Anthropology at an Ivy League university. I was nothing special, just another academic in an obscure field toiling away to feed my wife and three sons. My area of interest was the Amazon River basin and the primitive people still living there. Sure, I had heard rumors of Amazon's, but never really was that interested until that blockbuster movie Amazon World came out. Sheer genius it was, a story of how the legendary women warriors got fed up with the patriarchal world and emerged from their self-seclusion to overthrow it. Plenty of women wanted to see it because it had a good plot, of course the defeat of all the male governments. (This was a movie so there were zero female world governments at the time to overthrow) and the lead actresses were all A-list. Men went with their wives and girlfriends because of all the Amazon warriors in their skimpy battledress were former Playboy bunnies or cheerleaders. Another attraction for many was the first-rate special effects. Let's face it action movies with babes sell. I heard about the movie when it started production and knew what I had to do. I was in the running for a full professorship, and this could be my way in. I knew my obscure area of study would have a brief time in the limelight and I had to take full advantage. Immediately I researched an academic paper on the Amazons. It would be published in the usual dull Anthropology Journal. That would provide me with the material to write an article in regular English for the New York Times and any other media outlet that wanted to pick it up. This would get me promoted. One theologian of the nineteenth century proffered a hypothetical from the biblical text of Genesis. He cited a Garden of Eden, but separated from the ‘civilized world' by a global flood. A flood caused by a traumatic shift of the polar rotation, causing seasons, a depletion of hydro shielding of the atmosphere, and a resulting penetration increase in ultraviolet radiation. The major plates of the earth radically broke apart, causing a large ocean between the South American and African plates. The theologian believes it plausible that the Garden of Eden is the Amazon and Ecuadorian South Pacific region. He cites the Galapagos irregularities and species of Tortoises that have perhaps 3 times the lifespan of humans. Could all life forms excel greater, and live longer; in the ‘garden region'? Then the theologian sites the Nephilim giants, offspring of when spirit beings mating with human women. The text of Genesis 6: 4; 4 The Nephilim giants were on the earth in those days, and also afterward; when the spirit beings went to the human women. They seduced the women and had children by them. The offspring became powerful. They were the heroes of old, men of renown human folklore. The biblical references are several, but European civilizations have not seen evidence in many centuries, thus the idea has been discredited as superstition.  The theologian speculates that these mythical Amazons are perhaps superior in body and mind, and irreverent to the creator's order. The original Spirit beings designed to set up a civilization where women perverted the creator's order, and made human males into slaves of women. Whereas in other civilizations the offspring men conquered and terrified the world, in the Amazon regions, their superior intellect and science was used to alter genetics in favor of the females. The offspring females were genetically capable of longer life, superior intellect, and godlike in physical attributes. Male offspring, however; were genetically cursed to the limitations of all other humankind. Academia condemned the theologian's speculations, and it was not allowed to be taught at any credible university. Only bible colleges even entertained it as plausible.  For my academic career's sake, I went with the consensus theories of the leading universities and published a secular research. I called it Amazons: Fact or Fiction. The Times was interested, and I retained the syndication rights after they had the first exclusive release. In order to write the paper though, I had to get access to the journal of Francois Canard. He was the famous 19th century explorer whose journal documented his discovery of the Amazons. Unfortunately, no one believed Francois at the time, and they declared him mad and institutionalized him. He was known to the Amazon crowd as Bizarre Canard. His family detested that name, and what happened to him. They were always trying to rehabilitate his name and this movie, Amazon World, would bring his name to the forefront. I contacted the family and flew to France to meet with the heir, Jean Paul Canard. I promised to set the record straight on Francois. They would have right to reject anything I wrote before publication, and I would give them a portion of any profits I made, to pay legal fees to have the official record changed. ln exchange, I would have full access to his journal and any other records the family held. For some reason, Jean Paul felt I was trustworthy and agreed to my offer. The movie came out and broke records on its first weekend. My article came out on the Saturday of that weekend and on Monday was reprinted and reposted all around the world. The university loved the publicity, and I was given the full professorship. Moreover, the syndication money was greatly appreciated by my wife Connie. She was great at making our money stretch, but it always was tight. This is where Sylvia came in. With all the hype about the Amazons, she held her conference. Since I was acknowledged as a "world renowned Amazon "expert" I was selected keynote speaker. No expense was spared. Sylvia even paid for Connie and the boys to accompany me. We made a holiday of it and Sylvia had one of her staff tour guide us around Germany for a week. It wasn't all altruistic though. She wanted me to go to the Amazon River basin on an expedition she was funding. Again, no expense would be spared, in the quest to prove the existence of the Amazons. However, there was a problem with me going on the expedition. I had promised Connie no more trips to the Amazon until the boys were through their teen years. Connie had not complained about my previous trips when they were younger; when I was building my career but now she now she wanted my help at home. I had the professorship, so I was pretty secure, and I liked staying home. I loved Connie and being a father. Sylvia was tenacious however, at our first meal together before the conference she had mentioned the expedition and my role in it. I had explained that I had made a promise to Connie but would be glad to help with the preparations. Connie was very happy with my response and showed me her appreciation that night. Sylvia however was relentless, and by the end of our trip in Germany Connie had not only released me from my promise but was encouraging me to go! That conversation would replay over and over again in my mind, over the next year. I suspect it haunted Connie as well. Connie had it all figured out, "Nelson I know you made a promise to me, and you keep your promises. You are a great husband and father; I love being married to you. You are a great provider, working hard to give us what we need, and more. Sylvia has offered you an amazing sum to go on this expedition, This is your reward for all your years of hard work. If it is successful you will receive an even larger bonus. This would make us set for life. Sylvia thinks you will be gone a month, maybe two at the outside. I will be fine for that long; both of our parents will help. I really think you should go." I would have stuck to my promise but also I did want to go, it would cement my reputation and place at the university. The money was a stupid amount, one million dollars. I did also want to stay with my family. I could stay home and still milk my expert status at the same time. Yet Connie was pushing me to go so I agreed. Sylvia had no time to waste, a group was assembled and outfitted in a month. The leader of the expedition would be Lori Becker a self-made millionaire. She came from the wrong side of the tracks and had never failed at anything she had tried. Of course, our leader had to be a woman so she could speak on equal terms with the Amazons we hopefully would meet. Francois had mentioned this in his journal. His expedition included some women, and he made one of them the "leader," since the Amazons would not speak to him. Then there was the two security women, Alesha Murray, and Estelle Rodrigues. They were former special forces and from what I could see, the two women were the real deal. There were plenty of primitive locals, robber barons, and other assorted bad guys in the Amazon River basin so we needed protection. Again, women warriors made sense for the obvious reasons. Then there was Paulo and Mateus and their river boat. They would provide the grunt labor for the group as well as run the boat. They both were very handy and knew parts of the river. They also knew many of the main characters, among the legitimate and illegitimate goings on in this part of the basin. Finally, there was me, the expert advisor, and hopefully with the help of Bizarre Canard's journal the navigator. From my previous experience, this was a good size group for an Amazon river exploration. Small enough to be effective, but not too big to be unwieldy and attract too much unwanted attention from anyone. The three women and I would fly into Iquitos and meet up with Mateus and Paulo. We then would head down the river toward Ecuador, as outlined by Canard in his journal. The first few days were uneventful but soon enough we had left the vestiges of civilization behind. We kept a sharp eye out for the indigenous peoples, and others who didn't like outsiders on their turf. It was a beautiful part of creation, with so many vibrant colors and exotic plants and animals. We continued down the river and had the feeling that we were being watched. This increased with every mile. Estelle was convinced attack was imminent. Alesha not so much, the attack was coming but not yet. We were almost into the mountains, and she was sure it would occur then. There was no doubt in anyone's mind however, that we were being watched and that the watchers had changed. Originally it had been the indigenous who were watching us. They were great at camouflage and concealment, but the high-tech gadgets of Estelle and Alesha could pick out their heat signatures among other things. Now someone else was watching us. The high-tech equipment couldn't pick them up and neither could the naked eye. These people were masters of the hunt. Yet Alesha and Estelle were convinced we were still being watched. When we entered the mountains the river increased in speed but decreased in depth and width. We knew that we would soon have to leave the boat and move forward on foot. Then we saw the arch mentioned in Bizarre Cunard's journal. Everyone was excited that we seemed to be on the right path. Soon after that we stopped for the night at what we thought was a secure location. It was a sand bar with the river on one side and sheer mountain walls on the other side. While we set up camp, Estelle was on guard duty, and she was sharp noticing the stranger first. The person was dressed in a wet suit complete with a mask and carried what looked like a bow in their hand. The person had seemingly appeared out of nowhere, but must have come out of the river. Estelle ordered the person to stop moving and identify themselves. It was at this moment I knew that the expedition had succeeded, but would we live to tell the tale? The stranger spoke, "It is you who should not move; any movement will be met with deadly force. You shall identify yourselves and your purpose here immediately." I could not place the voice. It clearly was translated by a machine. I couldn't see the face of the person who had spoken, but I was sure that the translation did not convey the menace of the threat implied. Estelle started to raise her gun, but an arrow flashed out of nowhere and Estelle went down. After a moment to process what just happened, Lori Becker spoke for us, "We have come in peace; we are on an expedition to find the legendary Amazon warriors." Captives The person in the wet suit did not reply immediately. The silence was painful, Estelle was bleeding out from the arrow in her chest. It looked like it had pierced her heart, and she wasn't moving. I think all of us were holding our breaths waiting for a reply. Then we were stunned when it came. "You have found what you are looking for. Now listen very closely, any deviation from these instructions will result in your death." I hoped everyone else took that to heart, after Estelle I certainly did. As she spoke, a door opened up in the sheer mountain. She continued, "Very slowly you will strip naked, then you will enter the mountain, taking nothing with you." Soon enough the five of us were naked and travelling on foot through a mountain tunnel. I never looked back to see if we were being followed by the person in the wet suit. I did hear the door close. I could see light ahead of us and we all just walked toward the light. Once we reached it we could see a valley before us. There also was a woman warrior standing in front of us. She had on a breast plate of some kind of metal, forearm guards and a skirt that also looked like armor. There were sandals on her feet. There was some kind of sword on her hip. She did not look very welcoming. "Stop, look down and you will see some amulets. Put them on, they will allow us to communicate." We picked them up and put them around our necks, Lori was quick to try her's out. "I am Lori Becker, leader of this expedition." Lori's speech was cut off at the knees, "Silence, you are nothing until we decide what you are! Anyone who speaks again without being asked, will die. Follow me." The woman was not wearing an amulet but had raised her left arm to speak into her arm guard. We would learn later that these vambraces were a highly sophisticated smart phone, supercomputer, and weapons system, all in one. She then turned and started walking. Now we had lesson number two, and while processing that we followed her. Loud and clear, do what they say without question and remain silent. After an hour of walking, we entered farmland. There were men working in the fields. The men had on loincloths and sandals, nothing else. No one looked at us and our guide did not speak to anyone. Then we approached a village with a wall around it. There was a guard at an opening in the wall. She was dressed identically to our guide. They nodded a greeting to one another, and we moved into the village. She led us to a nondescript building that look like it was made of some kind of spray concrete. There was what looked like a toilet and sink in one corner. The floor was some kind of flexible material. There were two windows in addition to the opening. There was nothing else in the room. I estimated that it measured about 20 by 30. She stopped in the center of the room and looked us over. "You will remain here until you are summoned." Then she left. As she went through the opening a door materialized. We all looked at one another. Mateus was the first to speak. "I guess we found your Amazons, Nelson. Not a very friendly bunch." Paulo snorted at that and went to use the toilet. Alesha slowly circled the room seemingly taking in every detail. She looked out the windows but touched nothing. Lori put on a brave face and addressed us, "I'm not sure what we are facing here, however they seem to be a people of violence and few words. We just have to hang on and see what happens, eventually they will have to let us speak to them and explain ourselves." I wasn't so sure about that, but I had nothing to add so after also using the toilet I just lay down on the floor to rest. The others did the same and were soon lost in our own thoughts about the predicament we were in. We were surprised when the opening appeared, and two men came in carrying trays of food. They put them down inside the opening and left. No one dared speak to them and they said nary a word. The food was good and once we had eaten, and the sun had gone down outside. I did my Tia Chi forms. This was something I did every day. My parents had met through Tia Chi and all of us kids had grown up doing it. It certainly helped me stay calm and focused. As well it kept me in shape and flexible. Then I went to sleep. Paulo and Mateus sat together speaking in Portuguese before they also went to sleep. Alesha did some stretches and then also went to sleep. Lori just sat there looking forlorn. She had always been in control and now she was lost for what to do. I hoped she would get some rest. I awoke as the sun came through the windows. Alesha, Mateus, and Paulo were already awake. Lori looked like she hadn't moved an inch or slept a wink since last night. We didn't have to wait long for our warrior from the previous day to arrive. She strode into the room, "Follow me." Definitely a people of few words. We followed her to another building made of the same materials. Once inside it was obvious it was a medical building. We were led to a room with two large men and one woman in a lab coat. The men had on the same type of loincloths as the men we saw working in the fields yesterday. The two men advanced on Mateus and grabbed his right arm. The woman then took a blood sample. I immediately just raised my right arm as the men grabbed Paulo. Alesha and Lori did the same as me and the men didn't touch us as our samples were collected. The woman then took the five samples and left. The men also left. We were afraid to move but we didn't have long to wait, and our "doctor" reappeared with the men. The men were pushing a bed that looked like an operating table. They picked up Paulo and strapped him to the table. The doctor sprayed something on his groin. She then used a scapple to cut open his scrotum and remove his testicles. Paulo screamed through the entire process. I suspected that the spray was for healing and to avoid infection. These women seemed to enjoy inflicting pain. Once Paulo was a eunuch she sprayed the incision with something else. The wound never bled and appeared closed, healed even. Paulo was then released from the table. He collapsed to the floor, covered in sweat. Mateus and I also were sweating. Who was next? I didn't see any way to escape this and neither did he, we were stuck awaiting our fate. Mateus was next. It went exactly the same except Mateus tried not to cry out. That didn't make the operation any less brutal and Mateus passed out from the pain. Then it was my turn, and I was forced onto the table. The doctor did something different this time. She sprayed where my incision was for my vasectomy. After our third boy was born Connie and I decided we were done having kids and I had the snip. Well, the doctor proceeded to reverse that operation. I didn't know for sure but that's what it seemed like to me. It hurt like hell, and I also tried not to cry out. After she had finished the operation she sprayed the area she worked on. Then she produced a needle and injected it into my leg. That hurt like hell too. Then she was done, and I was removed from the table. Our guide then took us back to our prison. When we arrived, there was another meal awaiting us. Once we had finished eating, two men appeared to take away the dishes and they gave me what was obviously a sample jar. It was bigger than the one I had been given after my vasectomy. It was pretty obvious they wanted a sample. We had been naked around one another for a day now, and their was no privacy in the room. We were not allowed to speak so the four of them wordlessly turned their backs on me so I could produce the sample. I wondered if I could get it up but as soon as I touched my penis it became hard. It seemed harder then it ever had been, I figured it was just because I hadn't had sex for the last 2 weeks. When I ejaculated into the jar I filled it up. Wow, I never had cum so much in my life. I found out much later the injection I was given was a fast-acting, long-lasting sexual stimulant. It meant I would get hard fast the first and subsequent times as required. I also would produce much more sperm than normal. It even contained fertility drugs to facilitate impregnation. These Amazons sure had some advanced medical technology! The men left and within what seemed like an hour our guide was back. She ordered us to follow her. We ended up in the middle of the village. I immediately recognized the set up. It was prepared for a slave auction. There was a raised platform in the center of the open space with a woman warrior standing on it. There were many other women dressed identically, arriving from the rest of the village. Soon the five of us were all beside the platform waiting as the last of the women warriors arrived. I figured that all the Amazons, a few hundred in the village, were now present. Mateus was prodded onto the platform and the Amazon already on it spoke, "Fresh from the outside, we have a laborer. It is gifted with old mechanical technology knowledge and a strong body. Unsuitable for breeding but useful for service." I guess my blood sample showed I was suitable as a breeder and Mateus and Paulo's were not. I learned late that they like men who had had vasectomy's. As long as there were no hereditary issues the men who'd been snipped made good proven breeders and with their advanced technology it was easy to reverse the operation. Then the bidding began. Soon enough Mateus was bought by one of the Amazon's in the square. The auctioneer then pointed her right arm at Mateus and a laser came out of the vambrace to brand him on the right butt cheek. Mateus was given to his new owner, and Paulo was moved onto the platform. "Also fresh from the outside, another similar type for service. This one is younger but otherwise the same." Paulo was sold, branded, and given to his new owner. Clearly these Amazons were into object lessons. The auctioneer then left the platform, and two men placed a throne on it. What I could only image was the leader of the Amazon's then sat on the throne. She was dressed the same as the others except while the other's armor was silver her's was gold. The two men then used hoes to make a circle in front of the platform. Once they were done the leader addressed Alesha and Lori. "I am queen Zenoba and now we shall see if you two things are warrior women or not." Lori was then prodded into the circle. From the other side of the circle came one of the Amazons. She had removed her breastplate and was now bare chested. Seeing her proud firm breasts had me immediately hard. It was pretty clear to me that Lori was expected to fight this woman to see if she was suitable Amazon material. I wasn't sure how this would go. Lori was a strong confident woman, but I was unsure about her fitness level or of her fighting skills. The woman advance on Lori and threw a fake punch, followed by a leg sweep. Lori went down hard. I heard some of the other Amazon's in the crowd say "one." Lori got up slowly and I think it had now dawned on her that she was in the fight of her life or more aptly the fight for her life. Lori tried to assume a fighting stance. The Amazon advanced on her again going in for a grapple. I wanted to shout out for her not to engage, but we were told to be silent. Lori engaged in the grapple. They locked hands and the Amazon soon had Lori on her knees grimacing in pain and then kicked her square in the chest, knocking her back. I heard the "twos" from the crowd and silently prayed Lori would do better. The Amazon advance again, Lori tried to rush her, and the Amazon side stepped and grabbed Lori's arm. Lori cried out as the Amazon applied pressure. As more pressure was applied Lori started to beg for mercy. The queen then spoke, "Enough." The Amazon immediately let go of Lori's arm and Lori collapsed to the ground. Her shoulder was probably dislocated, and Lori was moaning in pain. A knife was then handed to the Amazon fighter who grabbed Lori by the hair, pulled her head back exposing her neck and slit her throat. More lessons for us. Fight hard to win and don't show pain. The two men dragged the body out of the circle. It now was Alesha's turn. A new Amazon entered the circle also bare chested. Alesha let the Amazon get close and when she tried a feint with a fake punch Alesha stepped into it. She caught the Amazon's fist with her left arm and then brought up her right knee slamming it into the Amazon's thigh. Alesha followed up with a brutal kidney punch. Alesha then let go of the arm and the Amazon went down on one knee. Her eyes narrowed and her face flushed. Alesha had embarrassed her, and hate emanated off of the Amazon. Alesha stepped back and said "one." This caused the crowd to murmur and the Amazon to charge forward at Alesha. Alesha turned to present a smaller target, but the Amazon jumped at her. Alesha was not expecting that move and the Amazon had amazing agility. She flew into Alesha's chest knocking her back. Alesha knew she was going down on her back and reached out for the Amazon's hair. As they hit the ground Alesha pulled the Amazon's hair as hard as she could. She followed up with a punch to the throat as the Amazon pulled her head back. Alesha then rolled away and stood up. Her chest and back was hurting from the landing but the Amazon was in worse shape. Rubbing her throat the Amazon was now so enraged when Alesha said "two" she launched herself again at Alesha. They grappled briefly but Alesha's special forces training was superior to the Amazon's skills and Alesha now had the Amazon in an arm bar. Alesha did not hold back and felt the arm dislocate before looking at the queen. Alesha then applied more pressure to the point of almost breaking the Amazon's arm. "Enough." Alesha let go of the Amazon as the queen spoke. The Amazon had never cried out or even moaned and never fell to the ground either. She stood up and faced her Queen lowering herself to a kneeling position. I thought for sure she was getting her throat slit. However, I was wrong, as I would learn these Amazons respected effort and the ability to tolerate pain. The Queen left her in that position for what seemed an eternity. The defeated Amazon was clearly in pain and discomfort but tried her best not to show it. "Rise Reyana, you fought a warrior and lost. Yet you never gave up or showed weakness. The warrior you fought is clearly a skilled fighter, and now our sister. Learn from her and your loss." Then the queen looked at Alesha who had assumed the same position as the woman she had defeated. "What is your name noble warrior?" "My name is Alesha; how may I be of service?" Although you had to be quick to see it a ghost of a smile appeared on the Queen's face. Clearly Alesha had impressed her. The Queen regarded Alesha as if seeing her for the first time. "Alesha, you have earned the right to be one of us, the Amazons of Fire Valley, do you pledged undying allegiance to your Queen?" Alesha was no dummy. She was quickly figuring out how to survive here. "Yes my Queen, I pledge my undying allegiance to the Queen of the Amazon's of Fire Valley." Then rise my new warrior, go with Reyana, and learn our ways. Then the Queen got up and left the platform. The crowd dispersed, leaving me and my original guide. She gave me a searing look. I was getting the hang of these people too and I did not flinch. I just looked back at her with the blandest look I could muster. After a minute or two she smirked at me, "I'm sure you can find your own way back to your accommodations." I'm sure this was another test, and I wanted to live so I walked the most direct route back to my prison. No one paid any attention to me. As I stared straight ahead I tried to also take in what was happening around the village. Basically, I saw a few men working at various tasks. I also saw a few Amazons, but they were doing nothing of significance. Everything was clean and tidy. When I entered my prison I noticed in the middle of the room was now an operating room table just like back in the medical building. It was complete with plenty of restraints. I could by now begin to guess what it was for. Yet there was no sense in worrying about it and instead I went through my Tai Chi forms. Lunch was brought to me by two large men and once I was done eating they pointed at the table. I climbed onto it laying on my back. They secured me in what I learned was called the Amazon position. I had my knees bent and pulled into my chest. One of them then jabbed me with a needle, another injection. My thoughts went to Connie and the boys. In particular I reflected on Connie and my conversation about joining this expedition. I wonder if Connie would still want me to go if she had of known I would become a sperm donor to a bunch of Amazons. Clearly, they were going to breed themselves on this table. The two men left and one of the Amazons entered my prison. She deftly stripped off her armor and clothing. She looked amazing, if you like athletic women. Firm perky tits and long-toned legs. Her vulva had a trim patch of hair on it that did nothing to hide the fact she was aroused. My arousal was also evident as my cock was hard as granite and she wasted little time impaling herself on it. She then used me for her satisfaction. She must have cum twice before I unloaded into her womb. She then go off and dressed. A few minutes after she left another Amazon entered the room. The exact same thing happened. For the next month or so I would be used by about 100 of these Amazon women. I'm pretty sure it was about one third of the total who lived in the village that took their turn. Obviously, they couldn't all get pregnant, some had to be able to defend the tribe. Neither Alesha nor the Queen came and used me. The routine was the same every day. The two men would arrive with breakfast, when I was done they then secured me to the table and gave me the injection. Amazons would come and go riding me until I came into their wombs. Some were pretty rough about it; none were even remotely loving. I learned later that they came as they entered their fertile times. With the fertility drugs and increased amount of sperm, the odds of pregnancy increased dramatically. If what I learned later was true I impregnated between two thirds and three forths of the Amazons who used me. I wonder what my sons would think of the fact that they would soon have 60 to 75 siblings, mostly girls. Apparently, they had mostly figured how to effect the gender outcome too, but it didn't always work. I knew the day's breeding was over when the men would reappear and release me from the table. They would also bring me another meal. The rest of the time was my own, but I couldn't leave the prison. The door appeared and disappeared for the male servants and the Amazons but not me. I would do my Tai Chi forms and sleep. Then came the day when I was taken out of my prison and brought back to the central square. The Queen was sitting on her throne on the platform, all of the other Amazons were standing around another circle before her. I was placed in the circle. One of the Amazons entered the circle from the other side. She was bare chested but otherwise dressed just like the warriors Alesha and Lori had fought. I was still naked. I had not worn any clothes since the day I was captured. It was pretty clear that I was going to have to fight for my continued existence. I had served my purpose, and I figured this was a test, for what I didn't really know. I was certain however I needed to win to avoid dying. I also knew I was at a serious disadvantage, not only were my balls exposed and vulnerable, but I had received my injection that day and my cock was hard. The Amazon warrior before me I definitely remembered from when she used me. She had been rough, biting, and scratching me. After I had cum in her she had spit in my face. This was not going to be easy. I remembered Alesha's words to me back while we were still free. "Tai Chi is nice, but it has become a sport with rules and traditions. Fights are real but they are not do or die. If you ever get in a fight in this jungle, no rules, no etiquette, fight to win. Do whatever it takes to win. And most of all, all this goes double if you are up against a woman." The Amazon warrior began to advance on me, and I adopted the ready position. She had a look of arrogance about her, I wondered if she ever lost? She advanced on me, and we traded blows. The Tai Chi helped me put up a great defense. I was mostly on the defensive and tried to see if I could get an opening at some point. I also had to protect my vulnerabilities. After a few minutes of sparing, she slightly lost her footing and that was all I needed. I swept her legs out from under her, and she completely lost her balance, but she didn't land hard. She was fit and flexible and recovered in a crouch. I moved back hoping to hear the word "one." It was music to my ears when I heard it from the crowd. Obviously, my opponent was infuriated and charged at me, we traded blows again and it was all I could do to keep her blocked. I made a mistake, and she moved in at that point to grab my balls but luckily I was sweating so hard she couldn't quite get a grip. It gave me an opening to knee her in the crotch. I hit her as hard as possible, and it stunned her. I followed up with a couple of jabs to her breasts. This caused her to lower her defenses for just a moment at this and I punched her hard in the head. She staggered back and I took two formal steps back praying to hear a "two." I almost smiled when I heard it from the crowd. I also heard the murmurs of the crowd; it encouraged me as much as it further enraged my opponent. She pressed in for the attack and she was relentless. I decided to stop trading blows and get mobile moving away from her. Around the circle, we went, her looking for an opening and me trying to survive. Then I made a mistake, I moved too close to the edge of the circle. One of the Amazons in the crowd gave me a shove towards my opponent. She bared her teeth in delight and moved to crush me. I did the only thing I could think of, I used my momentum to drop and roll. The Amazon dodged out of the way and then leapt to pin me on the ground. As I rolled I grabbed a handful of dirt and threw it into her face, hoping to hit her eyes. It worked, and while she was distracted I was able to jump back to my feet. She recovered with almost unbelievable speed and moved in to grab me. I used the opportunity to ram my forehead into her nose. Blood sprayed everywhere as her nose shattered. Yet there was no time to lose, I took her to the ground in a full nelson and pressed my knee into her back. It was an uncomfortable position for me, but it was brutal for her. She tried to get out of it, but I increased the pressure, I fully intended to keep going until I incapacitated her or killed her but then the Queen stopped the match. "Enough." I immediately let go and moved away from the Amazon who struggled to her feet. She then moved in front of the platform and knelt before the queen. I moved into the same position behind and to the right of the Amazon. I guessed that it was the right thing to do but wasn't sure. The Queen made us wait and sweat just like after Alesha's fight. "Deianira, you lost to a man, you have failed your name (Deianira means man destroyer) and your Queen. You are no longer one of us." The Amazon called Deianira was then pulled to her feet by two of the Amazons. Her clothing was stripped from her, and she was led away. I would learn later that she was then banished from the tribe. Expelled from the valley naked and vulnerable likely to die. That left me wondering what was going to happen to me. The Queen let me wait some more before ordering that I be taken to her room. I guess I earned the right to breed the Queen, but it was not quite that easy. Lucky for me the two male slaves that took me to her quarters risked the rath of the Amazons to warn me. In a whisper the one on the left said, "Thank you for beating Deianira, she was evil to us all. To survive mating with the Queen you must fight." Great, out of the frying pan and into the fire! The Queen's bed chamber of all things had a bed in it. Crazy that. After sleeping on the floor for a month a bed would be nice, but something told me that if I survived there would be no sleeping in this bed. There would be no snuggles and a second round in the morning either. I almost laughed out loud at my predicament. Then I remembered my conversation back in Germany with Connie. I wondered if this was the reward that Connie was thinking about when she encouraged me to leave? All thoughts left my mind as the Queen entered the room. She was naked and clearly in amazing shape. Below her proud firm breasts was a six pack any body builder would envy. She had toned thighs and walked with the grace of a panther. The slaves said I had to fight; this woman was going to tear me in half! I wondered if it was like honeybees, the Queen mates with you and then kills you. Oh well I thought at least I will try to give a good showing. The Queen advanced on me, and I assumed the ready position. Again, I was at a disadvantage. My cock was rock hard and my balls were unprotected. I decided to gamble on a move she probably wasn't expecting. It looked like she wanted to grapple so I stepped in, put my arms around her and pulled her face toward mine. She might not have been expecting it, but she reacted like lightning. Instantly her two arms shot up and broke my hold on her head, her knee came up to hit me in the balls. I was anticipating this and twisted my waist to take the blow on my thigh while darting my face forward to give her a kiss. She was clearly surprised by my move and allowed the kiss but at the same time wrapped her arms around me and flung me onto the bed. I rolled to my knees as she dove after me. We grappled and soon she had me pinned to the bed. I could not believe how strong she was. Without releasing my hands that were held by her own she maneuvered herself onto my cock and began to ride me. I did not resist and waited for my chance. As her first orgasm hit her I quickly broke her grip on me and rolled her onto her back. I grabbed her throat with both hands and began pounding into her as my cock had not slipped out during my roll. She hit the side of my head with a right and then the other side with a left. It hurt like hell, and I feared a concussion, but I held on tighter. She then pushed her two hands between my arms and literally ripped them from her throat. I once again could not believe her strength. She then rolled me back over onto my back and grabbed my nipples as she impaled herself on me. The pain was intense, but I quickly reached in and grabbed her nipples. I literally tried to rip them off her tits as I could feel the blood start to flow from her nails digging into the flesh on my chest. As all of this was happening she continued to slam herself down on my cock. It was a battle of wills and as I also drew blood from one breast I could feel my climax building. The Queen increased the amount of force she was using, and it felt like I was going to black out from the pain. I fought the darkness and reached deep down for my own renewed strength and her other nipple started to bleed. At this point we were sweating and grunting. Then she had an orgasm with the force of a tsunami! The Queen's vagina clamped down on my cock as she came and this in turn cause me to erupt. I never knew I was into pain but the orgasm that hit me took my breath away. It seemed to have the same effect on her. We both relaxed our grips on each other's nipples as we rode out the orgasmic ecstasy. I seized the opportunity to pull her down for another kiss. I bit her lip and then snaked my tongue into her mouth. She sent her tongue to meet mine and wrestle it into submission. I used the kiss as a distraction to once again roll her over, so I was on top. My cock was still hard as diamonds, so I slammed it back into her. I had never felt a vagina like hers and the sensations were incredible. However, I was so wrapped up in the moment that I started to lose focus on the fight. She seized the opportunity to then roll me back onto my back and pinned me into the Amazon position. She then rode me hard through two more of her own climaxes before I came again filling her womb. At this point I was exhausted but I knew it wasn't over, so I rolled out from under her and got off the bed. I then went down on one knee and bowed my head. I didn't know what to expect next but what I didn't expect at all was that the Queen would laugh. "Go back to your accommodation worthless man I am done with you." I had survived. I didn't know why she laughed until much later when one of the Amazons explained it to me. Only women were required to assume the position of submission before the Queen. By definition men were only servants so submission was assumed. She had laughed at my attempt to be a woman. I made it back to my prison and found a meal waiting. I ate and then did my forms. I couldn't help but wonder what would happen next. I had finished my meal and was reflecting on two things. Firstly, the immense pain in my chest from Queen Zenoba abusing my nipples. I hoped she was feeling the same discomfort, but I imagine she had some magic spray available to her. It was probably already all healed. Secondly, I was wondering what they were going to do with me. I had been forced to breed about a third of the woman warriors and the Queen. Was I going to be made a eunuch and sold to one of the women, or something else? No sense worrying about it. To take my mind off of the pain I did my Tai Chi forms. My previous instructors might not have been happy with my performance in my fight with Deianeira, but I didn't care. I had won and I thanked my parents for getting me into Tai Chi. Certainly the flexibility and balance had served me well. Obviously, my style had been more Tai Chi/brawler but thanks to Alesha's advice it had won me victory. That was the important part and there was no way I was going to forget it. This made me think about Alesha and the fact I had not seen her since she had won her fight and become an Amazon warrior herself. Then my prison door opened, and a man entered, I assumed to take away the supper dishes. He was there for that, but he also had a can of spray magic and aimed it at my bloody nipples and sore chest. By the time he had gathered up the dishes and left the wounds were healed and the pain was gone. Amazing stuff! The sun had gone down, and I was tired out from the day's exertions, so I lay down and went to sleep. I was awakened early by a man with my breakfast. When I was done one of the Amazons I had not met yet entered my prison. She ordered me to follow her. She led me to the opening in the wall around the village. At the opening we met another Amazon who had what looked like a lap top bag with her. She fell in behind me and the three of us walked down the trail that I figured was to the west. At first we passed farms but soon we left them and the village behind. We walked all day through the rainforest and then we stopped for the night. I was given some travel food. It looked like the rations you get in the army. Yet it was the perfect temperature and tasted delicious. No one had said anything all day. It was no different after our meal. One of the Amazons was clearly on sentry duty and the other one lay down to rest. I followed suit and soon was asleep. It was a quite night and in the morning was shaken awake by one of the Amazons. After another meal and my injection, we were back on the trail. Judging from the sun it was about noon when we apparently reached our destination. It was a large open field carved out of the rainforest. It seemed about the same size as a football field. We were on one of the long ends and there was a post in the ground that they tied me too. I was tied only around my waist with my hands and feet free. Diagonally across from me on the other side was a similar post. Minutes after I was secured, 3 people emerged from the forest on the other side. 2 were clearly Amazons, the only difference in attire from the Amazons with me was a blazing sun on their breastplates. The other person was a man, naked like me and soon tied to the post. One of the Amazons then walked 10 paces from the post to the right and stopped. The other one started walking to toward me. My two Amazon's did the same thing. One walked 10 paces from the post to the left and stopped. The other walked toward the naked man. The Amazons walking toward the tied men had the small bags with them. Once the Amazon with the blazing sun arrived in front of me she produced a needle from the bag and took a blood sample. She then opened the bag up revealing some kind of machine. The blood sample needle was inserted into the side, and she injected the blood into the machine. I could not see any screen or light to show a result, but after a moment she stood up and handed me a sample jar. It was all becoming clear to me what was going on. If I passed the medical tests I was to be traded for the other guy undergoing the same tests. This was a simple swapping of bulls or studs. The injection served it's purpose because I became instantly hard when I touched my cock. I then filled the container. The Amazon took the container and poured the contents into another opening in the machine. After a moment she drew a knife from her belt and turned to face the other side of the field. The Amazon on the other side of the field finished what I assumed was the same process with the other man. She also drew a knife and faced us. At this point, both of the Amazons turned and cut the bindings of the man on the pole in front of them. I didn't need to be told what to do I just followed the blazing sun Amazon back across the field. We met at almost exactly the halfway point of the field, but no greetings were shared. This was obviously a highly ritualized process that I had not read about in Canard's journal. In Canard's journal there had been only one group or tribe of Amazons occupying four valleys. Something definitely had changed. I suspected the four valleys now were occupied by competing factions. This didn't mean Canard was wrong, Canard had been here over 150 years before, it just meant things had changed. So far Canard had been accurate about the arch by the river, as well as the dress of the Amazons we had met. Canard also had reported on the sophistication of the Amazon's technology and that clearly was still true. To be continued in part 2. Based on a post by Farmer Jill, in 3 parts, for Literotica.

As the clock winds down on the year, we're closing things out with fireworks — both literal and political.

Betsy Hamm, MBA, is the former CEO of Duck Donuts, where she led the brand's expansion from 20 locations in 2016 to nearly 200 by 2025. Under her leadership, the company grew across the United States and expanded internationally into nine countries, including locations in the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Asia. Before serving as CEO, Betsy held key roles at Duck Donuts, including Chief Operating Officer and Director of Marketing. She brought more than 15 years of marketing and leadership experience, including serving as Marketing Director for Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, a premier hospitality company known for its iconic attractions, resorts, and venues in Hershey, Pennsylvania.   In her latest venture, Betsy Hamm Lifted Studio, she partners with founders and executives to accelerate growth, streamline operations, and build strong, scalable brands and leadership teams. Betsy also hosts Loud & Lifted, a women-in-leadership podcast blending real talk with practical tools on confidence, executive presence, and career growth. She serves on the board of Central Penn College and holds a B.A. in Communications and an MBA from Shippensburg University.   Summary: In this episode, host Lyndsay Dowd sits down with Betsy Hamm, the former CEO of Duck Donuts who helped scale the beloved brand from 20 local shops to nearly 200 global locations. Betsy shares her journey from a marketing career at Hershey Entertainment to navigating the chaotic startup environment of Duck Donuts as employee number 12. She discusses the critical operational strategies required to scale a franchise without losing its soul, the delicate art of giving founders honest feedback (or "calling the baby ugly"), and why consistency is the hardest part of growth. Now an advisor for emerging brands, Betsy also opens up about the importance of personal branding for leaders and her passion for empowering women to be louder, braver, and more supportive of one another through her own podcast, Loud and Lifted.   Key Takeaways: - Scaling Requires Standards - The Art of "Calling the Baby Ugly - Build Your Personal Brand - Women Supporting Women

If you like hard rock and heavy metal, you love Bullet. The band's newest album, Kickstarter is available January 9th, wherever you get your records. For more information, check out the band's website.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico TechnologyWatch Full Video EpisodeEpisode summaryMatt Fanslow pulls a lesson from an unexpected place: a Parkway Drive studio story involving Killswitch Engage's Adam D. The band tried to force a new sound—clean vocals mixed with screams—and it just wasn't working. The fix? Stop trying to be a different band and lean into what already fits.Matt ties that directly into shop life: not every shop needs to work on every vehicle type or take every job, and not every person needs to be great at every kind of work. Whether it's building around strong mechanical specialists, strong technical specialists, or choosing a narrower service lane, specializing on purpose can be the difference between surviving and thriving.What you'll hear in this episodeWhy the “do everything” mindset can quietly punish shops (and people)A real example of pivoting back to core strengths (and winning bigger because of it)The difference between mechanical specialists and technical specialists—and why both are hard to findWhy “I can buy the tools” doesn't automatically equal “we can do the work well”Checking ego at the door: success doesn't require being everything to everyoneA nod to “reverse benchmarking”: build your identity around what others don't do wellKey takeaways (shop + career)Specialization isn't weakness. It can be the most rational way to deliver consistent quality.Tools and information don't replace capability. They support it—if the people and processes are there.Staffing reality matters. If you don't have the right mechanical specialist or technical specialist, forcing the work in-house can be painful.You can evolve later. Being “not that shop” today doesn't mean “never”—it can mean “not yet.”Identity beats imitation. Trying to match someone else's “genre” can pull you away from what you're actually great at.Bands / people / references mentionedParkway Drive (story + recommendation)Killswitch Engage (Matt's favorite band)Adam D (KSE) and his influence in the studio momentHoward Jones / Jesse Leach (KSE vocalist history)Slipknot (clean vs scream evolution reference)Tour mentions: Summer of Loud (as described), plus bands like The Devil Wears Prada, I Prevail, Beartooth (as mentioned)Sports analogy: Tampa Bay Buccaneers run-heavy approach (and leaning into...

Well, it's been a hell of a year hasn't it? There were days when a lot of us lost our faith in humanity. Then there were the days when we gained faith in humanity. The one thing that never changed thought...That was you. Yes, you! The fans. If it wasn't for you we wouldn't have … Continue reading Rock, Paper, Metal: Still Loud After All ThIS →

This is The Zone of Disruption! This is the I AM RAPAPORT: STEREO PODCAST! His name is Michael Rapaport aka The Gringo Mandingo aka aka The People's Pickle aka The Jewish Brad Pitt aka Captain Colitis aka The Disruptive Warrior and he is here to discuss: Podcasting from parts unknown Winning The Money League Fantasy Football Champion Running For Mayor of NYC 2026 Year In Review Loud & Proud Goals For The New Year & a whole lotta mo'. This episode is not to be missed! CaptainPicks To Win In Sports Betting: https://www.winible.com/checkout/1357777109057032537?store_url=/captainpicks&c=kickoff Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Send questions & concerns to: iamrapaportpodcast@gmail.com Subscribe to Rapaport's Reality Feeds: iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/867-rapaports-reality-with-keb-171162927/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rapaports-reality-with-kebe-michael-rapaport/id1744160673 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3a9ArixCtWRhfpfo1Tz7MR Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/rapaports-reality-with-kebe-michael-rapaport/PC:1001087456 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a776919e-ad8c-4b4b-90c6-f28e41fe1d40/rapaports-reality-with-kebe-michael-rapaport Stand Up Comedy Tickets on sale at: MichaelRapaportComedy.com If you are interested in NCAA, MLB, NBA, NFL & UFC Picks/Parlays Follow @CaptainPicksWins on Instagram & subscribe to packages at www.CaptainPicks.com www.dbpodcasts.com Produced by DBPodcasts.comFollow @dbpodcasts, @iamrapaport, @michaelrapaport on TikTok, Twitter & InstagramMusic by Jansport J (Follow @JansportJ) www.JansportJMusic.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of #LatinosOutLoud, #RachelLaLoca chats with star of Beetlejuice on Broadway, Colombian-American singer and actress from San Jose, CA, Isabella Esler. At just 18 years old, she joined the cast of the first national tour of Beetlejuice as fan favorite Lydia Deetz. After two years with the touring company and over 500 shows she made her way to BROADWAY for her DEBUT! The show returned for a third time to Broadway and runs through January 3rd at The Palace Theatre. MORE ABOUT ISABELLA Most recently, Isabella appeared in Toronto as Alice Carter in Britta Johnson's new musical Life After, a limited engagement that earned her a Dora Mavor Moore Award nomination for Outstanding Individual Performance. Currently based in New York City, Isabella is emerging as a dynamic stage talent known for her expressive musical theater work and magnetic presence. She's happy to be doing what she loves most and bringing happiness to people by performing on stage. ⁠https://www.isabellaesler.com/⁠ Follow Rachel Follow Isabella Follow LOL #LatinosOutLoud #Podcast #Comedy #LatinoStories #Loud #BettleJuice

Send us a textIn this episode, we unpack a truth society avoids: a Mother's shout is rarely about anger. It's about exhaustion, emotional overload, invisibility, and carrying everyone else's needs in silence. From unrealistic expectations of “quiet, patient motherhood” to invisible labor and dismissed burnout, we explore why Mothers are pushed to their breaking point and then blamed for reaching it.This is not a justification of shouting, but a deeper conversation about why it happens, what fails Mothers before their voices rise, and why understanding a Mother's scream requires shared responsibility and empathy.Because a Mother's shout is not the problem—it's the symptom. And the real question isn't “Why did she scream?” It's “Why did she have to?”Request all of you to listen to this show and share your views or if you have any topics or any thoughts about my podcast write to me at somathakur@gmail.com and follow me on Instagram @somathakur.mothercoach for more updates. Support the showSoma ThakurMotherhood Coach, Lifestyle Educator & Mentorwww.somathakur.com

By now, everyone should acknowledge the truth. Donald Trump is on Russia's side. He works for Putin. As mind boggling as that is to acknowledge, we must acknowledge it so we fully understand what we're dealing with. The leader of the free world is not on the side of the free world. He's taking his marching orders from Putin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's a holiday throwback, baby, and I'm gifting you something hard to resist

In this episode we get LOUD about the natural waves of seasons in our lives. As we approach the new year I wanted to remind you about how everything in life has it's summer and winter seasons. Times of high energy, wins, and blooming, and times of rest, struggle, and regrouping but one thing we can always count on is summer, and winter, always come back around. Hope you enjoy this conversations as you start your New Year's resolutions and see you in 2026 :)Watch the audio version of this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TjzJhRi7_WsBible Verses Mentioned:Ecclesiastes 3: A Time for Everything1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:2 a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot,3 a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build,4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, 5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,6 a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away,7 a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak,8 a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peaceGalatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.James 5:7 Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.Shop real skin. real results: https://nine2fiveskin.com/Audio versions:Catch LTWL on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/loudtalk-with-lavi/id1664975601Catch LTWL on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3lXkBxqJOYzwu3g15fCmCM?si=e33b945687874d0f&nd=1For Podcast highlights and updates follow:LTWL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loudtalkwithlavi/?hl=enLTWL TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loudtalkwithlavi?lang=enMore Lavi:Lavinia Rusanda YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaviniaRusanda/videosLavinia Rusanda TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laviniarusanda?lang=enLavinia Rusanda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laviniarusanda/?hl=enJoin Content Creator and engineering and business student Lavinia Rusanda as she uncovers the secrets of the beauty industry, breaks down the walls of beauty standards, and teaches you to learn self-love and become confident in your skin while bringing awareness to acne and real unfiltered skin.

Quaranteam - Dave In Dallas: Part 8 Intruders! Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels. October 26, 2020. Monday afternoon, Reena took lunch duties. Lunch was often individual or in small groups, but she really wanted a crack at cooking for everyone. She said it could be 'come and go' to still facilitate varied schedules around the house. Her idea was ramen. But, it wasn't just basic out of the package. Well, it was, but with a variety of add-ons. You could pick your flavor of ramen, then she'd prepared chopped carrots, nori, sesame oil, diced onion, spam, eggs (fried up for each bowl individually) and Korean red pepper powder that Jan had gotten added to the spice rack. Oh, Reena still cooked it up, but each bowl was individual, and made on request. When Jan came in for lunch, she laughed warmly. Beaming, Reena asked hopefully, "Just like mom would make?" Jan placed a reassuring hand on the girl's shoulder. "Not exactly dear. This is ore like what my Caucasian aunt would make when she tried to be authentic." Reena's face and shoulders seemed to suddenly melt. Jan stepped in beside the teen, wrapping her arms around her. "And the one time I made fun of my aunt for it in my mother's hearing was the last. She pulled me aside and scolded me for being insensitive, and ungrateful. Mom said that ramen was always about making something tasty, with love and what ever ingredients were available." Jan made a point of looking over the prepped ingredients arrayed on the counter. "And this is exactly what you have done." She kissed Reena on her cheek. "Thank you. Thank you for the meal, and thank you for reminding me of two lovely, caring women in my life." Reena hugged her. Then she got the specifics of what Jan wanted and got busy making it. Dave stepped out of his office and got two steps down the hallway when Lupie found him. "Dave, could I use your office and computer for a bit? It's kind of urgent. I was in the middle of some trades and my laptop died." "Again?" Dave chuckled. Lupie looked chagrined and rolled her eyes. "Good thing you have your software installed in there already. Just log me off and do what you gotta do. How long do you need me to stay out?" "Rest of the afternoon?" "Okay." Dave started to walk away but Lupie snagged him by the shirtfront and tugged him towards her. They kissed softly. They didn't hear the small footsteps approaching. "Oh gag me with a tamale." Both adults laughed too hard to maintain the kiss. "I do need to get in there," Lupie said. A quick peck and she scampered into the office. Dave knelt down and wrapped Esme in a hug. "And you, rascal, need to give it a rest. We keep a lot out of your sight because; well because it should be out of your viewing. So give us a break on the kissing once in a while, huh?" "Yessir" her tone sounded reluctant, but the grin was hard to suppress. She took four quick steps away from him before turning. "Dave?" "Yes, sweetie?" "Thanks for making mom happy." "Never have I ever; used a pay phone," Reena said with a wicked grin. Shawna and all the ladies over thirty took a drink. Dave first reached into his pocket, pulled his hand back out, and tossed a quarter at Reena. Then he took a drink. Liv busted out laughing. "One of Dad's favorite songs!" she cried as she cackled loudly and leaned a bit too far over into Mel. They'd been going for over half an hour. And she and Mel had pre-gamed. "Song?" Reena asked. "Pay phones used to cost a quarter to make a call. Early nineties, there was a country breakup song called 'Here's a Quarter, Call Someone Who Cares'," Dave filled in. Reena pouted, then stuck out her tongue. "Okay, Lupie, your turn," Jan prompted. 'Never have I ever; done the splits." Reena threw one back. Liv joined her, while Dave laughed. "That laugh suggests a story," Nessa observed. "Yeah, yeah," Liv replied. "I was; oh, about ten or so?" "Eleven," Dave corrected. "Right. Anyway, the girlie girl types were saying I was not really a girl if I couldn't do the splits. So I did." Dave cleared his throat. Liv blushed. "On top of the monkey bars." All the older ladies burst out laughing. "Well, that showed them!" Shawna rejoined. "And I believe it's Dave's turn now." "Alright, never have I ever; taken a nude or semi-nude selfie." Reena's eyes bugged out. She reached for her drink, threw back a slug, then covered her face with her hand. Mel, Liv, and Nessa followed suit. That was no shock to anyone. Jan doing so caught a few looks. "Nope, not gonna talk about it." Jan's face was as red as Melanie's hair. "Okay, moving on; " "Not yet. Someone hasn't drunk." Dave said. He looked at Becca, clearing his throat. "What?! I've never sent nude selfies. You're the first guy I ever got naked for!" "I believe you." Then Dave held up his phone and waggled it. Becca's eyes got wide. "Oh, crap, I forgot about that!" The young blonde blushed about six shades of red before reaching for her drink. "Oh, this I gotta hear." Melanie breathed. Becca hid her face in her hands, peeking between two fingers. Lupie laughed loudly. "Okay, you busted me out, so spill." Becca looked pleadingly at Dave, then shrugged her shoulders, giving him a nod. "Loops, you remember that very first day, when the vax guy came around?" Lupie nodded in reply. "And you wondered why Becca was acting all embarrassed after I told you I'd accepted you both?" "Yes?; oh!" "I told you she'd be the one to say it was okay to tell you what happened? She just did." Lupie just nodded in reply. "Uh, care to fill the rest of us in?" Mel asked. "So the CDC guy came around mid-September. He got to Lupie's house first. She sent him over here with a letter asking that I request her and Becca, giving her reasons why I should say yes. After setting things up with Arthur, I texted both of them that I would make the request. Becca replied with a selfie. With her shirt and bra pulled up. Still have it by the way." Dave winked at Becca. "Shit, we shoulda thought of that! Right after the video call!" Liv groused, nudging Mel. "Another missed first." "Becca was weeks before that call, so still first. Well, first amongst this group, not first ever." "Oh, yeah?" Dave dodged. "Old girlfriend, long time ago. So, who's turn is it next?" Thankfully, they let it slide. October 27, 2020. Dave descended the stairs to see Olivia, Becca and Reena watching a 90's movie. The two teens were making a concerted effort to take in as much of the movies and songs that Dave had grown up with, particularly the ones he had physical copies of. Reena had taken some adjusting to the idea of watching without streaming. Not that they didn't stream at all. Last night, Dave had discovered several of his partners, including Reena, hadn't yet seen Hamilton. That required immediate correction. "Wow, really? It's a great story, well executed, and it's historical. I mean, yeah, they take some liberties, but Miranda was pretty true to the essence of the characters." "But history?" Reena whined. "It's just a bunch of old white guys." Dave looked askance at her. "You're sleeping with an old white guy." Reena's face fell, and Dave's heart with it. In a soft voice, she said, "You're not just an old white guy to me." Her head wasn't exactly hanging, but she didn't meet his eyes. Fuck, emotional landmine triggered. Splash damage accumulating. Dave got up swiftly, without rushing, to stand in front of her and take her in his arms. He kissed the crown of her head as her face nestled in his chest. "I'm sorry honey, I didn't mean to sound so disparaging." Reena slipped her arms around Dave and took him in a hug. Several others joined in, circling the pair in their arms. "Reena, honey?" Shawna prompted. "The guy who wrote it had a vision to make the story more interesting than 'just a bunch of old white guys. Give it a try. I think you'll like it." As often happened, Shawna was spot-on. This morning though, the trio were watching Dave's blu-ray of Twister. "You know, we'll have to watch this in April. Before or during the first severe thunderstorm warning." Dave said as he rounded the back corner to pass them without blocking their view. All three girls chuckled lightly and accepted the kisses Dave planted on them as he passed behind them on his way to the library. Entering, he found Vanessa lounging with a book. He took a seat in easy speaking distance without crowding her. "So, how are you settling in?" "Pretty well. It's; so peaceful here. I really expected a house with this many people in it to be more chaotic. I mean, there's a fun energy here, and a lot of life, but it's; so soothing here. Thank you, David. For accepting me, for just; being here to match with." "I'm enjoying having you here. Beyond the obvious, I mean." Nessa snickered at that. "You've slipped rather smoothly into the family and already I couldn't imagine this place, or us, without you." "That's so sweet, thank you." "Maybe once the whole state's vaccinated, we'll get some normalcy and get out to do the usual family things together." "When we get some normalcy again, you ought to marry Lupie." "I should marry all of you." "No. No, I don't feel that way. Lupie does. Olivia does. And maybe Janice. Shawna too, she has it bad for you. Becca is still young and sorting it all out. Same goes for Reena and Mel. I don't share that depth of bond. I wouldn't want to cheapen what they have with you by sharing a marriage ceremony when I don't have that connection. I damn well better be one of the bridesmaids though" A wry smile crossed Vanessa's face. "I care for you. I love you. I love this family. I am not in love with you." "If it weren't for this damn serum, you would be free to find someone to have that bond with." Vanessa's eyes watered. "Don't ever say that again." There was steel in every syllable. "I may not be in love with you, but this is one of the best relationships I've ever had. I have more joy; not mere happiness; joy in my life now than I have had in a very long time. If the serum caused this, then Thank God and bring it on. I wouldn't change what I have right now for anything. I know you care for me. I can feel it. I feel it from each of the others. What we have is special and I don't ever want to let it go." Dave stood and walked towards Vanessa. From one eye, a tear rolled down her cheek. "I haven't felt this safe and accepted since I was a little girl that didn't know what emotional pain was." She closed her eyes, surrendering, hopeful, to what he might do next. Dave bent down, bringing his face to hers. He kissed each eye gently. He kissed each tear streak. He kissed her gently on the nose, eliciting a small giggle. He kissed her lips, softly at first, growing firmer as she responded. She broke the kiss and opened her eyes in time to see his eyes opening. She could see the tears watering them. "You're going to make me fall in love with you aren't you?" "No. I'm going to give you every reason to, and let you decide." Dave reached underneath Vanessa and lifted her. She wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him as he carried her. Olivia noticed them coming out of the library. With a small grin she began singing in a soft voice "Who; knows what to-morrow brings; in a world; few hearts survive ;” Dave tried scowling at her, but he couldn't get the grin off his face. As they neared the base of the stairs, Vanessa ceased her slow circuit of kissing Dave's cheek, neck and lips. "I think you better let me walk from here stud." Dave chuckled and lowered her feet to the floor. They rose up the stairs, side-by-side joined at the hips, shoulders, and lips. From below, they heard Olivia mutter "God that's hot." Reena Umm-hmmed her agreement. "My nipples are freaking diamonds right now." Entering the bedroom, Dave and Vanessa began removing each other's clothes, quickly, but without frenzy. They stood naked, at the end of the bed, kissing, holding and softly groping each other. Dave pressed in close and gripped Vanessa under the curve of her ass. He lifted her and tossed her into the middle of the bed. She squealed happily as she flew. Dave slowly crawled up the bed, kissing Vanessa as he went. He started by kissing the big toe of her left foot and proceeded down the top of her foot to her ankle. Then he switched to her right foot. When he reached her ankle, he continued laying soft, gentle kisses up her shin. Then again up her left shin. He avoided the backs of her calves, her kneecap and the inside of her knee. These spots were very ticklish for Vanessa. Becca loved the loss of control when Dave tickled her. Becca and Janice loved the counter play of tickling and sexual stimulation. Vanessa would mule-kick him through a wall if he tickled her. And be out of the mood. And be pissed for a few days. So no tickle-y He kissed his way up the tops and outsides of each leg. He kissed a wandering path around her abdomen, taking time at her belly button like a caravan merchant at an oasis. Vanessa moaned. Her belly button was one of her favorite places for Dave to play with. Dave began working his way upward again, kissing in a straight line that ran up from her navel between her tits. He looked up as he rose, seeing her eyes locked on him, hungry and happy. Pure joy radiated from her face. He reached the hollow of her neck and alternated kissing with light nibbling. Vanessa moaned again and shifted beneath him. This was another of her favorite spots. He kissed up to her jaw, across her jawline, to her lips. "Umm" Vanessa hummed as Dave settled in, his body pressing firmly against hers. He rested his weight on his elbows and knees (outside of hers) and took her hands in his, out to the sides of her head, their fingers interlaced. It was more sensual than sexual. After several minutes, Dave slipped his hands loose and moved lower for the next step. He broke the kiss. Vanessa whimpered and opened her eyes. She bit back a complaint about the end of the kiss, because she knew what was coming would be better. Dave kissed her chin, then her shoulder. He stroked the outside of each tit with his fingertips. He kissed from her shoulder down to the top of her tit. He kissed around her tit, never touching the areola. Then he placed tiny, soft kisses just at the border of her areola without brushing her nipple. Vanessa whimpered. His hand played with her other tit, likewise avoiding the areola. Vanessa squeaked as he took her nipple and areola in his mouth and suckled, flicking his tongue against her nipple. "Yes; ;” she clutched the sheets and writhed beneath him. It was delicious torture. He had her worked up and ready, but kept the foreplay going rather than enter her. One finger of his hand lightly brushed across her other nipple. Back and forth. Back and forth. Light pinch. "Oh, David, please baby." Dave chuckled. He met her eyes as he descended down her body again, taking less time than when he rose. He kissed her hip, then across her pelvis and down. He kissed her mound of Venus and descended with his mouth hovering over her labia, but not touching. He let his breath brush over her entrance. Then he pulled back further and kissed her inner thigh. He heard a strangled whine from above. He nibbled. He switched thighs. More shifting and squirming. Dave latched his mouth onto Vanessa's labia and suckled like a newborn. "Yes!" Her body lifted off the bed for several seconds. He flicked his tongue against her entrance before easing it inside of her. She let out a contented moan. He slid his hands along her sides and thighs. Dave lifted his eyes to look at Vanessa. Her eyes were closed in bliss. He moved marginally forward and took her clitoris into his mouth, massaging it with his lips and tongue. "Oh God!" her eyes flew open. Hands gripped sheets and pulled hard. Her feet lifted. Dave backed off, giving her a moment. He started crawling up the bed, over top of her. Vanessa pouted and locked eyes with him. Desire and need echoed back and forth between their eyes. Dave inserted himself into her wet, relaxed passage and slid forward purposefully. Vanessa issued a sound that was both a sigh and a moan signaling her satisfaction. Once again, Dave interlaced his fingers with hers. With his hands on top of hers, and all four hands beside Nessa's ears, Dave began to rock his body overtop of her. He held himself just low enough that his chest and ribs softly grazed over her erect nipples. With slow, gentle strokes, he raised the two of them towards ecstasy. Kissing softly, they communicated without words, just sighs, moans, and hums. Time stopped and the world fell away. Just two lovers wrapped in gauzy layers of lovemaking. Nessa's body trembled with anticipation for what felt like an eternity as Dave caressed and stimulated her, hitting all her pleasure spots just so, raising her gently to one delicious climax. He buried himself to the root within her as the dam burst forth. Her erotic writhing alternatively pushed him away and strove to swallow him within her. The oscillations of her wet passage seized his organ and sent him cascading over the cliff with her. Struck by the serum induced orgasm, Nessa clutched him tightly and howled her pleasure. When Nessa's grasp loosened, Dave slipped to lie beside her, holding her close. Drifting back into the conscious world, Nessa snuggled in close, draping an arm over him. "Hmm, so that's what the girls have been calling 'the full Dave', huh? I like it." Shawna's rotating early shift was today, allowing all of us to sit down as a family and finish discussing housing preferences. Mel came in from the kitchen once Shawna arrived. "We didn't quite get there last time, but with 12 or more people, we need a bigger kitchen." Lupie said emphatically. "Preferably with a double oven and a cooktop with five burners and a grill. Four burners and no grill is still okay. And gas, not electric." "Anything else for the kitchen?" "Well, an island, preferably with power to it, but with a cutting board top, and large enough for rolling out dough." Lupie paused, looking pensive. "Did I go too far?" "Not at all, that sounds great. Especially if I actually get to use it." Dave grinned back. Lupie smirked and rolled her eyes. "Oh, and one other condition; a nice big batch of tamales after we move in." Lupie's eyes danced. "Absolutely." "I was thinking," Reena said, "how about a backyard deck?" Dave interjected "Not really necessary. It would be good to have, but I can build a reliable deck. Especially with Livy involved. You can help too if you want." "If you can do renno, I may have work for you." Vanessa smirked. Dave laughed. "I still have a day job. Our house sure, but I'm not looking to make it a job. Oh, and what ever we get needs plenty of electrical outlets. If it's really necessary, I could run a few new breakers and circuits, but seriously, I'd rather stay away from that." Shawna looked alarmed. "Baby, I believe you when you say you've got skills, but I don't want you around one-ten, or worse, two-twenty." Dave returned with a scowling laugh, "That's why you turn it off at the box, dear." "Just be careful honey." "Yes, Peaches." That earned a laugh all around, as Shawna blew a kiss at him. Nessa looked at her. "Are you from Georgia?" "No, but my parents met there in college. Mom's from Georgia, Dad was just there for school. They raised me and my brother in St. Louis." "And you went there for your degree?" "Oh no. I knew I wanted to be a meteorologist since I was a young teen. I went to O U. With the National Weather Service center right there, I got experiences I could never have gotten elsewhere. Spent a good chunk of my upper-class and grad years chasing storms." "Sounds like a lot of fun." "Oh yeah." Nessa grinned with Shawna, then turned to Dave. "I have been asked to press the idea of the towers one more time. Not so much our immediate supervisor here, but the folks back in DC. Their argument is that it's more efficient." "Unbelievable." Dave managed to avoid grumbling. "You do realize that the same people that want to shove us into a shoebox are the same little hypocrites that scream their heads off when a CEO lays off workers to make his company more efficient. Both of them are promoting the math of what they want, ignoring what they don't, and neither actually gives a shit about the people they are using like pawns." Shawna, seated beside him, stroked his arm, a slight grin on her face. "Yeah, okay, I'll climb down off my soap box. But no, I do not want to live in an apartment tower. A neighborhood, sure. A diverse neighborhood sounds great. I'm not a fan of monochrome anyway." "Clearly," Nessa said. "Just looking around the room proves that." "I'm sorry, but the whole 'I know better than you' crowd pisses me off, whether it's the church variety, the lefty variety, or the old money variety." "Okay, okay," Nessa replied light heartedly. "I had to bring it up again. I've done so, and you've been quite clear. I'll get on the search tomorrow. It may take a bit, but I'm sure we can find something that meets our requirements." The conversation turned to other subjects, and the family splintered into little knots of discussions. Mel slipped back out to check on the meal she was making. Dave didn't know what it was, but it smelled really good. Well, he knew it was something with chicken. He decided to join Mel in the kitchen. "Hey, Mel, how's it goin'?" "Almost done." Mel turned her face to his and received the offered kiss. "Smells really good. Chicken soup?" "Chicken and dumplings. From scratch. I boiled the chicken earlier this afternoon. It's about time for me to mix the dumplings. After that, it'll be ready to eat in twenty minutes." Dave wrapped his arms around her, holding her close from behind as she watched the pot. "Perfect choice for a dreary day like today. And, I haven't had chicken and dumplings in a long time." "Well, I hope you like mine." "Oh, Mel," Dave said as he nuzzled his head against hers, "you know I like your dumplings." He traced the middle finger of each hand up her sides, pulling away before reaching her tits. She cackled, turning to face him. With a light smack on his shoulder she said, "You're an old lech," she stepped in for a kiss. "But you're my old lech." She waggled her eyebrows. Dave chuckled, resting his forehead against hers. Then the doorbell rang. "Go, I need to get on the dumplings anyway." Mel swatted him on the ass as he walked away. Jan was already at the door when Dave arrived. The soldier was just handing over the clipboard. Beside her stood a young black woman with her hair in several tight braids. She stood about 5'6", with eyes that appeared to prefer laughing, but bore the potential to penetrate obfuscation, a cute button nose and a bright red lipstick on her perfectly sized mouth. Large golden hoop earrings in her ears and tight black jeans on her legs were the only attire visible other than her thick coat. Given the near-freezing temperatures and drizzle that had gone on all day long, Dave could hardly blame her. The black handle and ribbing stood out starkly from the vivid, deep pink of her umbrella canopy. It looked thoroughly functional, and infinitely girlie; maybe a bit more Wednesday Addams than cheerleader, but that didn't bother Dave in the slightest. Jan handed the clipboard back to the soldier, who departed immediately. "Hello, my name is Janice, though I prefer Jan." She held out her hand, which was taken without trepidation. "And this is Dave." He likewise reached out and shook the lady's hand. "Come on inside. We were just about to sit down for dinner." "About twenty minutes," Dave supplied. "Mel; Melanie; is making chicken and dumplings." "Oh, that sounds really good. Especially with this weather." She pulled her roller case through the foyer and parked it just inside the living room. The ladies approached her, no more than three at once, and the early few drew her towards the center of the room as they greeted her and introduced themselves. Mel, having not taken a seat yet, exited to the kitchen again, reappearing barely a minute later. "It'll be about ten more minutes," she replied to the expectant faces that turned her way. Becca and Olivia immediately stood, heading to the kitchen. Apparently, it was their turn to set the table. The light conversations and sharing continued through the meal, interrupted only by nearly everyone asking for a second bowl (Dave had four, but made sure everyone else was done eating before the last two.) Of course, each family member took multiple opportunities to praise Mel for the quality of the meal, and the excellent choice for the dreary conditions. Dave listened in on the conversations around him, paying special attention to the ones involving the new arrival, Niki. Between his own conversations with her, he learned her full name was Nicole Lassiter, and she worked as the network administrator and network security administrator for a bank headquartered in Dallas. With all the losses, she was now over all computer issues that were not customer facing. Her little brother was still in college, hunkering down in the UGA dorms. Niki, her mom, and her dad each called him at least once a week both for their own peace of mind and to keep his spirits up. Niki's parents were recently vaccinated. Her mother had styled her hair before 'her baby girl' left for the Vax Center. The tight braids she wore were called a Senegalese twist. Since her mother was a hairdresser (not that she was seeing customers at the moment) she had extensions on hand to do her daughter up right. Niki's dad had just retired from road construction work, looking to open up a barbecue restaurant; right before the lockdowns hit. Dave also noticed a slight unsteadiness on occasion when Niki walked. It made him concerned for her well-being, but he wasn't sure how to bring it up without being rude. As the evening wore on, he noticed Niki making furtive glances his way. The next time she did, he made eye contact, lifting one eyebrow. She bit her lip and nodded. Dave rose from his seat and strode to her side. A few eyes followed them as he took her hand and led her upstairs. Dave guided her to the master bedroom. Niki quickly took a seat on the bed. "You know, I didn't ask you earlier: do you want to do this here, or in a separate room? Here, you're going to wind up with several other women in the bed as well. We still have a room you could wake up in with some privacy. Shawna and I use it sometimes to spend time together when she gets home from work, and she stores clothes in there so she can dress and not disturb anyone when she has an early morning shift, but nobody uses the bed in there." "No, here's fine, thank you." Looked pensive for a moment. And a little pained. "Are you okay? If you don't want to do this; " "No, no I'm fine, really. Well, I'm not fine, but you aren't the problem, not by a long shot. I pushed myself too hard this evening. I should have spent less time standing." Dave waited while she ordered her thoughts. "I haven't been completely honest with you, Dave. I only recently got to a point where I can walk without a cane. Over a year ago, I was t-boned by a drunk driver. Shattered my legs. It'd be a good bet that half the metal in this room, is in my bones right now." She let out an annoyed snort. "I used to run track. Even got a partial scholarship that helped me get my degree. I spent months in a wheelchair, and then a walker. After that, I moved up to those forearm crutches. During lockdown, I couldn't go to the doctor, so when I felt annoyed enough with the crutches I shifted to a simple cane. And now I've been walking without any aid for over a month, but it hurts like hell; and it's tiring." "You are one tough cookie." Dave said from the spot he'd taken beside her as she spoke. "I don't feel so tough. I feel beat up and worn out." Dave hugged her. "You want me to tuck you in and let you rest? We could do the imprinting tomorrow." "No, no I want to do this with you Dave. I just may need you to go easy. And probably help me undress." "Just to be clear, you're asking me to strip your clothes off, handle your body gently, and blow a load inside you?" Dave said with a hint of sarcasm. Niki giggled. "You seem man enough to handle the job." Dave answered her with a kiss, full on the lips, pressing firmly but with moderation. His hands drifted behind her shoulder blades. Niki responded, humming into the kiss and parting her lips. When Dave's tongue probed undemandingly, hers welcomed the visitor. Dave's hands roamed slowly, taking the first steps in learning the body of his newest lover. He enjoyed the feel of her in his hands. There was a looseness, as would be expected for an athlete that had been benched. Beneath that slight layer, there was a firm core. She was; exciting. And excited. Whatever she wanted in a man, she seemed to think Dave had it. Well, that and the serum had her amped up. Dave was finally getting past feeling guilty about that. Mostly. Dave started consciously directing his hands, seeking the buttons or clasps or zipper to loosen the neck of the tight black top she was wearing. Solid black panels with a black lace overlay stitched in at regular intervals. Finding the short zipper took no time at all. He next dropped his hands, seeking the hem of her shirt under her jeans waist. There was no hem. As his hands quested, he found bare hip, with cloth from the top still diving down her front and back. Just like a swimsuit. Then it struck him. He came up for air and play scowled at her. "You could have just said it was a bodysuit." She snickered. "Aw, where's the fun in that?" Dave kissed her. Then he gently shoved her backwards onto the bed. Her torso lay flat on the bed, her legs dangling off. Dave stood and faced her. Reaching down, he unbuttoned her jeans and lowered her zipper. Niki's eyes twinkled as Dave took hold of the cuff of her jeans and pulled them off. He missed the worried look in her eyes as the scars on her legs were exposed. That's because his eyes were locked on her trim brown legs. They stayed fixated on those lovely legs as he kneeled between them and began kissing her legs, first one then the other. All over her thighs, then, gently lifting, careful not to lift too high, he kissed her calves and shins. He lavished every inch of her legs with his lips and tongue. Niki moaned. Then she sniffled. Alerted, Dave brought his head up, locking his eyes on hers. Tears watered the bottom of her almond shaped sockets. "You make me feel beautiful again." "You always were." He kept his eyes on her as he kissed the inside of her knee. The kiss extended into suckling. He gave the spot a little nip, then moved his position by a few inches and giving the same attention, adding in a few strokes of his tongue tip. Niki's chest heaved. Dave could hear sobs amongst the moans as he switched to her other knee. He would have been alarmed except for the clearly cathartic tone. "Umm, David, please, I need you up here." With a grin, Dave worked his way, unhurried but not dawdling, up her leg, kissing and huffing hot breath on her exposed skin as he went. Reaching her fragrant core, Dave brought his fingers softly to the three little snaps holding the gusset of her bodysuit together. A gentle flick separated the two soaked flaps of cloth and revealed that Niki wore nothing underneath. The engorged, richly black outer labia of her nethers drenched in her arousal. Her inner labia petaled outward, yielding a peek at the pink interior. Dave blew one long, slow hot breath over her bare, quivering sex before latching his mouth on her. He suckled her lower lips as her back arched. Niki keened her pleasure while her arms beat a tattoo on the bed. "David, now, please, now." Dave shucked his shoes and quickly slipped his cargo shorts and boxers to the floor. In a flash, Dave was over top of her, dragging her up the bed like a leopard securing his prey in a tree. Niki's breath caught as he took charge of her body. The fire in her eyes was unmistakable. He kissed her deeply, then pulled away. With his eyes locked on hers, he moved himself to her entrance and pressed his cockhead just barely inside. The fluids leaked all over his throbbing cock touched her most sensitive places and set off a riot only attributable to the serum. Dave anchored her motions with his knees, pressed against her rear, but not enough to force her legs too far apart. "Fuck that was good." She paused for a deep breath. "Hmm, I'm all yours now Dave. Send me off to neverland, lover." Dave worked within her, slowly and gently at first, picking up pace slightly and a little more force when she signaled it was needed and acceptable. Her hums and moans continuously reminding him his actions were still mutually desired. His peak arrived and he shot hot ropes of cum with his cock buried deep in her, his cockhead brushing her cervix. Immediately, she shuddered, racked with the serum induced pleasure that forever locked her life with his. Dave held her in her throes until she went limp muttering "Imprinting; imprinting; imprinting ;” He rose, going to the bathroom to clean himself before returning with a wet washcloth and a hand towel to clean Niki. Once she was cleaned and dry, he snapped her body suit closed again and arranged her comfortably on the bed, beneath the covers. He placed a soft kiss on her forehead before heading downstairs to spend social time with the rest of his family. As he descended the staircase into the mild buzz of the other eight women happily sharing his life, his home, and his bed, Dave marveled at how amazing his life was. Chapter 10; Storm Winds. October 28, 2020 4:18am David's hand was halfway to the palmprint secured gun safe on the back side of his headboard before he realized he was even awake. With the vertical placement, and the; activity frequently occurring in the bed, he'd installed two Velcro loops to hold the pistol and magazine inside. He released the pistol and placed it on his chest before reaching back for the clip. Fortunately, only two hands and a part of one leg were draped over him at the moment. The four younger girls were in their rooms, leaving Lupie, Jan, Shawna, Vanessa, and his newest partner Nicole to share his bed. Nicole was one of the hands, and the partial leg. By consensus, the ladies decided she should get to curl up next to Dave for her imprinting sleep. Gingerly, Dave slipped free of his partners' limbs and slid down the bed onto the floor. Only then did he insert the magazine and work the slide. Flipping the safety on, he padded softly but quickly to the closet to grab a pair of shorts. He decided not to wear slippers this time. He might need the extra footing. Keeping close to the wall, he approached the bedroom door. With the door still shut, he took the safety off, but kept his finger out of the trigger well for the moment. Slowly, Dave eased the door open. Slipping through, he noticed a shape in the hallway, against the wall, at the top of the stairs. Too dark to identify an individual, the figure made the 'Join Me' signal his friend Carter had taught him long ago. He did not raise his weapon. Sliding along the wall silently, just the way he'd practiced at least once every year, Dave approached. Proximity gave the reassurance the lighting denied at a distance. Liv crouched in the hallway, pistol in hand, wearing only a light nightgown that reached most of the way to her knees. With a quick series of hand signals, Dave told Liv to follow at a distance as he prepared to descend the stairs as quietly as possible. Liv signaled back that she should lead, but apparently had no signal for why. Dave negated the suggestion, and started down the stairs. He reached the lower landing with no incident. His nerves had been raw as he got halfway down and the solid wall gave way to railing. Now he crouched on one knee, Liv a few steps up from the landing, but with good vision on the living room area, both of them listening. The nighttime chirping of mockingbirds was absent. No flutter of wings or rustle of raccoons, possums, or skunks. Out here on the wild edge of the metroplex, there was always something moving at night. Dave signaled for Liv to post up on the landing and then moved along the wall of the stairs, in front of the media center to the corner of the living room where the downstairs hallway started. He was now directly below the spot Liv had occupied when he first emerged from the bedroom. And just two steps from his secured gun closet recessed under the stairs and hidden behind a normal looking panel. Dave had only one twelve round magazine. Liv had purchased a larger safe and had a spare ten round magazine in addition to the one in her weapon. It was a bit awkward carrying it since she had no pockets, but Carter had taught a variety of firing stances, one of which allowed carrying something in the non-dominant hand. By the absence of natural sounds, somebody was outside. He did not know how many, or how they were armed, but he was sure they weren't here in the oh-my-god-it's-early hours for a friendly visit. He slid the cover for the pin pad open so he could punch in the unlock code. Dave heard a crashing thump at the door followed by cursing. The security door worked just fine. He didn't get a chance to smile though. The glass door at the back of the living room shattered from several rounds. Dave squared his body with the opening just as two men stepped through. The first man fell as Dave brought his weapon up. The second went down just as his head turned to his right to see Liv's position flanking their breach. Dave heard a tinkling sound from the entry. Someone was breaking the window in the front parlor. Now he was worried. The thick pillar at the free corner of the landing would give Liv scant protection against a firearm. Dave stayed low, stepping away from his corner. It gave him protection against someone firing from the sliding door breach, but he had no angle to fire into the entryway. With the furniture screening him from the glass door breach, he approached the arch between the entry and living room. Loud whispers drifted in from his right. The remaining attackers on the deck seemed to be hesitant about testing themselves against the defenses. He was straining to pick out words when a head began to resolve itself in the entry. Dave fired two rounds. The body fell. He held his position, weapon ready. Out back he heard an angry growl, "Hey, one of those women is my sister!" The reply was too low to understand the words, but the snideness came through clearly. As did the answering gunshot. What the hell is going on? They're shooting each other now? Hey, they don't need to be on my property for that! The fallen body in front of Dave slid backwards. Hands appeared from the foyer and the broken glass door, but they were empty. The hands gripped a pair of ankles of one downed man each and yanked them back to where the hands came from. This repeated for the second body near the glass door. Wet sickening sounds ensued, backed up by an occasional retching noise. Murmurs were heard. Someone said something about a marker and a bag. "David?!" Shawna's voice called from up the stairs. That wasn't the only sound from upstairs. Roscoe was barking his head off. Furtive whispers indicated some of his family were at the top of the stairs with Shawna. "Keep everyone up there. Open up the armory in the main closet and distribute weapons to the adults. Everything Lt. Malcolm Reed gave us is in there. Arm up and take defensive positions upstairs." That was a bluff. Hopefully enough of one to drive the attackers away. Dave was sure Shawna would recognize the name of the armory officer from Enterprise and catch on. The sounds from the foyer and back deck took on a hurried pace before Dave heard footsteps rushing away. Dave and Olivia exchanged glances, and then immediately darted their eyes back to the penetration points. This happened a few more times over the next several minutes. "Looks like we're clear." "Yeah, just stay on your toes." "I know. I grew up under the same guy that trained you, remember?" "Vividly." Cautious footsteps descended the stairs. "David, Olivia, it's Shawna. I'm coming down." Slowly, Shawna came into view, feet first on the exposed portion of the staircase. Her pink satin nightgown falling just past her knees gave her some coverage, but made Dave aware of the cold, damp air pouring in from both breaches. "Are you two okay? Is it safe?" "For now. We've got two big holes in the house, so maybe keep everybody up there where it's warm unless they're needed down here." Dave paused for a second. "Ask Nessa and Mel to look out the upstairs windows. See if they can spot these guys leaving, or lying in wait." Shawna disappeared upstairs, then came back down after a brief verbal exchange. Shawna came down to the lower landing and spoke briefly with Livy, giving her a hug. Then she came to Dave. She hugged him fiercely. Her voice shook as she said thickly, "For a little bit there, I thought I was going to lose you." "We held." Dave managed to keep most of the nervous tension and post-adrenaline shake out of his voice. By the look in her eye, Shawna wasn't fooled a bit. Dave led her to the beginning of the hallway, the cubby under the stairs. He whispered the passcode in her ear so she could unlock it. That had been the galling thing during the attack. His full stash of weapons had been right beside his shoulder, but he couldn't spare the attention to unlock it. Clearly, he needed to rethink his arrangements. Shawna handed out a thigh holster for him, which he only saw peripherally as he kept watch. The weight told him immediately she'd placed two pre-filled magazines in there for him. He pulled one out for a quick check. No use him having Livy's mags. "I go to the pistol range about every other month. Nothing fancy, but I'm a decent shot and I know the difference between ten mil and nine mil. What? It's a very satisfying skill to have, and a great way to blow off some stress." Dave chuckled and turned his head, with a quick lean to her and gave her a peck on the cheek. Then he stepped back out to his post. He felt Shawna walking out, so he moved to the other side of the hallway so she could make her way to Livy with the other thigh holster without crossing Dave's line of sight. She paused at his shoulder. "Dave, do you want the other weapons in there?" Dave thought for a minute. He knew which ones Shawna had to mean. He sighed, "Yeah. A tac vest and one of the MP5's. Tac vests should already have six loaded magazines in the pockets. Get two and give the other vest and weapon to Liv. Then find out if anyone upstairs has any weapons training. You said you shoot, how good are you?" Shawna handed out a vest first, which Dave quickly donned. "With silhouette targets, I can put four out of five rounds through the heart. Now, I haven't gotten to shoot since the lockdowns, but I was pretty regular before." She handed him one of the MP5's which Dave quickly slung over his head and shoulder, inserted a magazine he'd pulled from the vest and chambered a round, then safed the weapon. "Are those; ?" "Semiauto. Carter went to a lot of work to make sure we had everything we could legally have, but never anything illegal. They do have the integral noise suppressor. It was expensive as hell and took forever plus a mountain of paperwork, but it's all legal. At least in Texas." "God Bless Texas," she said with a gleam in her eye. Shawna gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before sauntering over to Livy, a thigh holster clutched in one hand, a tac vest in the other, and an MP5 slung over her neck. A second thigh holster, with a nine millimeter and magazines was strapped to her sleek, powerful thigh. Shawna handed off the gear to Olivia, then swiftly moved back to the concealed weapons closet. She was in there for quite a while before emerging. "There was only one more pre-loaded nine mil mag, so I had to load a few or just walk around with one. The second choice didn't sound viable." "Agreed." Dave grasped Shawna's bicep and pulled her in for a quick kiss on the cheek. She beamed at him after returning the kiss, then headed upstairs. Dave heard Liv saying something to Shawna as she passed by. An eternity and a short time later, two sets of footsteps descended the staircase. Melanie followed behind Shawna. "Carter and Liv both took me to the range several times. I even went to a tactical course once my aim was; acceptable. But only with pistol. I've never shot anything else." "Good enough. There's another thigh holster and pistol inside. What did Carter train you on? "Nine millimeter. He said it was so common it made a good starting point. Once with Liv, we rented shotguns at an outdoor range and I was decent with it." "Pistol will do fine. Shawna, help her get some magazines loaded. Has anyone called for police?" Mel swallowed nervously. "I didn't see anyone waiting in the back yard, but the deck;” "Yes?" "It's; disturbing. Dave, be careful." Dave nodded, as did Liv. Shawna spoke up as she followed Mel in. It was tight with two adults in there, but doable. At three it would have been cramped. "Lupie called. They didn't know how long before someone responds. They're stretched thin and the night shift is the least staffed." Wordlessly, she handed over a t-shirt she'd grabbed while she was upstairs. Dave slipped the tac vest off, donned the shirt, then the tac vest again. While he dressed, he spoke with his partners. "Fuck. Okay, here's what's gonna happen. You two take defensive positions on the stairs. One of you take the lower landing, one further up, just below the ceiling line. Then Liv and I will go out through the deck, and check the exterior all the way around." "I'll take the landing," Mel said. "I've had training with Carter, I should be the one exposed." "You sure?" Shawna prodded. "Yeah." "Okay, take your positions then." Dave kissed each one on the cheek before they walked away. When both had taken their places, Liv came over to him. Dave had one more instruction for Shawna. "Oh, and tell Lupie to call the police again, let them know we are clearing the grounds so they don't just shoot us on sight." Shawna nodded and crept upwards. Jan came down the stairs, bearing a pair of shoes for Dave and Liv, a pair of socks stuck into one shoe for each of them. After handing over the shoes, Jan headed back upstairs. They shod themselves quietly. "So, me on point?" Liv asked as she finished. "No, I'll take point, you cover me." "Dave, if anything happens to you, we're all in big trouble." "That's why you're watching my back. Otherwise, I'd go out there solo and leave you in charge here." "Like hell you would. I ain't some; " "I know you are capable, but I'm still going to shield you from as much risk as I can." Liv rolled her eyes. "Gee, I feel safe and offended all at once." Dave stared at her stony. "Are we done here? Ready to go?" "Shit, Dad really rubbed off on you. Yeah, let's do this." Olivia fell in behind Dave as he headed straight for the glass door breach. Both held their weapons ready, jutting forward with the strap taut around their necks and backs. Dave paused at the breach. "Off safe." "Roger." Dave examined the scene visible through the broken glass and the flapping curtain. Blood trails led out the breach from the various points where the bodies of the invaders had landed. He could see the legs of a few of them still on the deck. He turned his head to catch first Shawna's then Mel's eyes, nodded, and proceeded cautiously but swiftly out the breach. He swiveled right going out, knowing Liv would go left, just as her father had taught them for years. Each stopped at the furthest extension of the deck in their direction, scanning the deck and yard in a full semicircle, their backs to the house. There was no damage to the fence, and no apparent damage to the greenhouse or anything else in the backyard. The deck however; well, it wasn't damaged. The bodies on it were. Each had the pants and underwear pulled down and a huge bloody mess where the genitals once were. Blood continued to ooze out of the wounds, though clearly it had poured out initially. Dave signaled his intent to clear the greenhouse. Liv followed him. It didn't take long to clear. They emerged quickly, rescanning the backyard as they did. With Liv trailing, Dave exited the backyard through the side gate. The side yard showed no disturbance. In the front yard, they found the same gruesome sight as the back deck. Here though, they found an empty plastic baggie with blood spatter. And a few bloody fingerprints. The bag snagged under the heel of the corpse, ensuring the light wind was insufficient to blow it away. Dave and Liv finished the sweep, checking the other side yard, which showed no signs of disturbance. "I think we're safe, for now. These guys bugged out." "Yeah, but why did they cut their buddies' junk off?" Dave shivered, and not from the crummy weather. Well, maybe a little from the weather. He was barely dressed after all. "Let's get inside." Since the front door was still locked, they traipsed back through the side yard to the gate and came in through the broken glass door. "Coming in." Dave called before entering. "No sign of anyone out there." The relief on Mel and Shawna's faces was evident. Their shoulders relaxed slightly. "Can you two keep watch here? I'm gonna talk to the others, then we'll both get dressed, and then I'll call the police again." At the top of the stairs, four of Dave's partners wrapped him in hugs muttering their relief that he was still in one piece. He could see Lupie gazing at him, beseechingly as she held Esme close, soothing her. A loud bang against a door at the end of the hall reminded Dave of other necessities. "You better go let Roscoe out so he can see that we're all intact," Dave chuckled. As Olivia opened the door, Roscoe bolted from the room, turning only when she bellowed "Roscoe, Heel." That cut through his canine brain fog of 'defense mode'. He turned to her, sniffing as if checking on her condition. Liv knelt in front of him. She placed her hands on either side of his face and began stroking his neck and back while speaking softly, in calm tones. After a few whimpers, he started aggressively licking her face and putting his paws on her shoulders. Addressing his family, Dave said, "Liv and I need to get dressed. We need to call the police again, and we need to get those holes sealed." "Holes?" Jan asked. "Yeah, they busted in the sliding door and a window in the parlor. It's not quite as cold and miserable downstairs as it is outside, but it's close enough. For now, stay upstairs unless you have something you need to do down there. You can still run down to grab a book, or make meals or snacks. For tv, use the spare room that Shawna uses when she has morning shifts." "We could just use our laptops for streaming, Dave. We'll be fine." Reena added. She looked a bit bleary. To be fair, everyone seemed caught in some whipsaw state of alert and drowsy. Not surprising, given what they'd just been through. Dave patted her on the shoulder and kissed the crown of her head in appreciation. Releasing Reena, Dave knelt in front of Esme, who was showing clear signs of worry and strain. He enveloped her in his arms and held her close. "It's okay now, baby girl. We're all okay now." He held her, stroking her hair and back soothingly. After several minutes had passed, he loosened his grip and began to stand. Esme's arms immediately came up, wrapping Dave in a vise-grip hug. She didn't say anything, she didn't cry or whimper. She just clutched him tightly. Dave eyed Lupie, but she just looked back at him imploringly. He reached a hand out to her and she grabbed on immediately. He looked around at the others and saw the need for reassurance was still there. Olivia had already slipped into her room with Roscoe to get dressed. Becca, Reena, Jan, Nessa and Lupie all rushed to surround him the moment he waved his hand to 'bring it in'. Esme was wedged between Dave and Lupie. She finally relaxed her grip on Dave, and switched over to her mother. With a silent chuckle, Dave kissed Lupie on the cheek and slipped off to the master bedroom. Jan followed after him. "I thought I'd call the police and put it on speaker so you could talk to them while getting dressed." Dave nodded, then wrapped her in a hug and gave her a closed mouth kiss that was no less affectionate for its chasteness. Reluctantly, he released her and headed into the closet to collect some clothes. Jan dialed 911 as soon as Dave emerged. Police staffing was so low, all calls went through the emergency center. Long held habits are hard to break, though. Especially when those habits are codified in a manual. That's what they call 'procedure'. "911, what's your emergency?" "We called earlier about a break in. The people trying to break in have left, except the ones we shot," Dave called out in clear, even tones for the speaker. "Is anyone injured?" The operator droned, as if she been on duty too long, too many days in a row. "No, ma'am," Dave said. "No one in my family was hit, and the ones we shot are dead." "Are you sure they're dead?" "Yes ma'am. The guy that taught me how to shoot didn't teach me to miss. Besides, before they left, the invaders; mutilated the bodies. If they hadn't died from the gunshots, they'd have died from the blood loss." Dave was watching Jan's face when he mentioned the mutilation. Not the best choice, since he nearly fell over pulling on his cargo pants. It did allow him to see the flinch that briefly flitted across her face before she reasserted control. "Did you say mutilated, sir?" The tones were even, obviously someone that had worked 911 for years. Still, there were notes of 'oh shit' blended with 'what fucking else?' "I did." "Would you please specify the nature of the mutilation?" "The genitals of the deceased were removed." A short silence reigned on the line. "Could you repeat that sir?" The operator's voice sounded slightly more alert. Dave pulled his pre-tied sneakers on as he said, "the scrotum was removed from each of the corpses." This conversation was now added to the thick stack of reasons to be very glad of the distance between the master bedroom and Esme's bedroom. Lupie and the others had taken her there when Dave walked away. Between the walk-in closet and Dave's office, there was little chance sounds from the bedroom penetrated that far. "Are you certain the perpetrators have left?" "Yes ma'am, one of my partners and I swept the area; our yard anyway; and found no one remaining. All we found were the bodies that the survivors had drug back out of the house and carved up." "So the shooting happened inside the house?" "Correct." "I'm noting all this in the file sir. I'm appending this report to the prior calls your partner made requesting assistance. Since you are no longer in immediate danger, I am diverting the patrol response. They will get to you to you after attending to higher level calls." Even as she spoke, the woman's voice grew more exhausted, like a Walmart employee on Black Friday at about 3pm. "It's been almost an hour since the initial break in. Why has it taken so long?" "Sir, I'm not at liberty to discuss that, but I do apologize. I have no control over response times. I will dispatch a detective to investigate as well. Until then, please leave the scene undisturbed." "How long will that take? Can you give me an estimate?" "Probably a few hours, sir. There are very few detectives working night shift, so they'll likely hand this over to the dayshift investigators." "Hours? These guys busted in my sliding door and broke a large window in the parlor. It's making for quite a chilly cross breeze. And that's not even counting the blood stains and blood trails in my living room and entryway." Dave's voice had begun to rise. "Sorry, I'm trying to maintain a level tone here, but that's a bit difficult given what's happened and what you're telling me." The voice on the other end reached its most hollow state. "I'm sorry sir, I can't change those realities. Please understand that it will be three hours minimum before a detective would reach you. More likely it will be three hours before a detective is assigned to your case. Patrol won't take that long, but it won't be immediate." Dave took a deep, cleansing breath. It was only marginally useful, but it helped him keep his tone level. "And what is the longest likely time before a detective gets out here?" "Possibly six to eight hours sir." "That's; " Dave caught himself. And formed a plan immediately. "Fine. We'll be ready when the detective arrives." He hung up. Dave took a deep breath, staring intently at the far wall, fully aware of Jan quietly and patiently waiting off to his right. He rubbed his face, then snatched up his t-shirt and pulled it on. "Okay, let's meet with everyone else. I have a plan, and we can deal with this." Dave said as he stood. With a concerned look to Niki's slumbering form, he strapped the thigh holster in place and fastened the tac vest as he walked. The MP5 he slung over his neck and shoulder, then pulled around to his back. To be continued in part 9, Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts, for Literotica.

Please follow/subscribe! Click here for more: https://sleep.whitenoiseplaylist.com/snooze 8 hours of rain for deep sleep. Perfect for adults, kids, or babies to sleep through the night - the sound of rain can be remarkably beneficial for enhancing sleep quality and promoting relaxation. Rainfall produces a natural, rhythmic white noise that has a calming effect on the mind and body, making it an excellent tool for aiding sleep. The gentle patter of raindrops creates a consistent and predictable auditory environment, masking disruptive sounds from the surroundings and reducing the likelihood of disturbances that might otherwise interrupt sleep. This continuous sound helps to create a sense of familiarity and security, allowing the brain to disengage from stressors and worries, ultimately leading to a more peaceful and restful slumber. Additionally, the sound of rain triggers a psychological response that is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history. Human beings have evolved in environments where rainfall was a regular occurrence, signifying safety and abundance. As a result, the sound of rain taps into our primal instincts, subconsciously signaling to the brain that it's a time for rest and restoration. This innate connection to the rain's sound can help lower the body's stress hormone levels, such as cortisol, while simultaneously promoting the release of relaxation-inducing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Consequently, the act of listening to rain becomes more than just an auditory experience; it becomes a powerful method for aligning the body with its natural circadian rhythms, ultimately facilitating a deeper and more rejuvenating sleep. In a world characterized by constant stimulation and digital distractions, the simple act of immersing oneself in the sound of rain offers a tranquil escape. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of raindrops creates a meditative ambiance that encourages the mind to unwind and wander, gradually leading to a state of relaxation conducive to falling asleep. Unlike jarring noises or sudden disruptions, the sound of rain is consistent and non-intrusive, allowing the brain to gradually drift into a state of tranquility. This process is akin to mindfulness meditation, where the focus on a single, soothing stimulus—like rain—dissolves racing thoughts and encourages a sense of presence. By creating this mental space, listening to rain becomes a powerful tool for unwinding the mind, releasing tension, and inviting a deep and fulfilling sleep experience. Sweet dreams! DISCLAIMER: Do not turn the volume up so high that you are unable to have a regular conversation. Loud sounds can potentially damage your hearing. While listening, make sure the sound is at a reasonable volume. Do not place speakers next to a child's ears. If you have difficulty hearing or hear ringing in your ears, please immediately discontinue listening and consult an audiologist or physician.

HAPPY LOL-IDAYS! On this episode of Latinos Out Loud, Rachel gets a visit from San Antonio culture curator, founder of Puro Pinche and long-time friend, Stephanie Guerra, during her visit to the big apple. The two catch up and chat all about what Stephanie has been up to, including her new role as Marketing Director for San Antonio Sports and Brand Ambassador for chain store, H.E.B. Find out just how far back their friendship goes, and hear stories on their adventures when Rachel's previous career took to San Antonio. Follow Stephanie Follow Rachel Follow Latinos Out Loud #PuroPinche #LatinosOutLoud #Podcast #Comedy #LatinoStories #Latinos #Loudcomedy #UrbanLifestyle #Texas #LatinoCulture #LaughOutLoud

If you're AuDHD (autism + ADHD), life can feel like a constant contradiction: craving routine but rebelling against it, needing stimulation but getting overwhelmed, wanting connection but burning out socially. In this episode, Carmen breaks down what neurodivergence actually means (not a personality test), explains ADHD vs autism vs AuDHD, and gives practical, nervous-system-friendly strategies to build a life that fits your brain.Timestamped Chapters (approx)* 0:00 — Cold open: the AuDHD paradox in one breath* 1:30 — Neurodivergence: what it is (and what it isn't) Autistic Self Advocacy Network+1* 6:00 — ADHD explained: executive function + attention regulation CDC+1* 9:30 — Brain networks + “default mode interference” (why focus leaks) PMC+1* 11:30 — Autism explained: social communication + restricted/repetitive patterns CDC+1* 13:30 — Sensory processing differences + prediction models PMC+2PMC+2* 15:00 — AuDHD: why it's missed + DSM-5 history PMC+1* 18:00 — Co-occurrence and what it means (you're not “rare” or “weird”) PMC+1* 23:00 — The AuDHD Paradox Show: real-life examples* 32:00 — Tools & strategies: rails not cages, rotation menus, sensory-first, scripts* 39:30 — Closing: your brain is patterned + gentle next stepsKey Takeaways* Neurodiversity = natural variation in brains; neurodivergent is a nonmedical identity term. Autistic Self Advocacy Network+1* ADHD centers on executive functioning and attention regulation, not intelligence or effort. CDC+1* Autism centers on social communication differences + restricted/repetitive patterns, often including sensory differences. CDC+1* AuDHD can look contradictory because traits can mask each other; dual diagnosis became formally allowable in DSM-5. PMC+1* Sustainable support = “rails not cages,” rotation menus, sensory regulation, and externalizing executive function.Resources Mentioned* CDC: ADHD diagnosis overview CDC* CDC: ASD clinical diagnostic criteria overview CDC* ASAN neurodiversity explanation Autistic Self Advocacy Network* AuDHD comorbidity review (open access) PMCPredictive processing + prediction differences in autism (review/empirical)PMC+1SCRIPT:Hey there! Welcome or welcome back to another episode of authentically ADHD. I am not going to lie, this year has been hard and im so glad if you have stuck along with me, because the rest of the school year is going to be even busier. So thank you for your patience, and grace as I work through this year and let out episodes when I can. I had some inspo for this one because of the new year coming up, and ive talked about this before but not so much in depth. As I go through this episode, i want to share that ive recently self diagnosed myself as AuDHD, a person who has both ADHD and Autism. What does that mean? Well, lets talk about it!Okay, quick check-in: have you ever felt like your brain is two different people sharing one body— one who's like, “Please, for the love of God, routine. Predictability. Same mug. Same route. Same show on repeat.” and the other who's like, “If I do the same thing twice I will evaporate into dust like a vampire in daylight.”If yes… hi. Welcome. You're in the right place.Today's episode is called: “Your Brain Isn't Broken — It's Patterned.” Because I need you to hear this like it's a bass line in your chest:Your brain is not morally failing. Your brain is not lazy. Your brain is not “too much.”This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Your brain is patterned. And if you're AuDHD—autism + ADHD—your pattern can feel like a paradox factory that runs 24/7 with no off switch and a slightly rude customer service department.So… let's talk about what neurodivergence actually is, how ADHD and autism overlap, where they differ, and why AuDHD can feel like living inside a contradiction—and then I'm gonna give you real strategies that don't feel like being yelled at by a productivity guru who thinks “just try harder” is a nervous system plan.[tiny pause]Are you ready? Let's get started.Substack adOkay, tiny intermission—because if this podcast is helping your brain feel a little more understood, I want you to know there's a whole extra layer of support waiting for you on my Substack.That's where I publish Authentically ADHD, and you can usually get the podcast there first—but it's not just a podcast drop. I've started writing blogs there too, which means you get deeper dives, the “ohhh THAT'S what's happening in my brain” explanations, plus practical tools you can actually use when your executive function is doing that thing where it simply… leaves the chat.And here's why I'm obsessed with it: Substack is neurodivergent-friendly by design. You can read posts when you want to skim, you can listen when reading is too much, and I include graphics most of the time because we deserve information in formats that don't require suffering.So here's your invitation: come subscribe on Substack. It's free to join, and if you decide to become a paid member, you'll get even more—bonus resources, extra content, and additional supports I'm building specifically for AuDHD/ADHD brains. Subscribe free… or go paid if you want the “director's cut” plus the toolbox. Either way, I'm really glad you're here.Neurodivergence: What it isSo lets talk about neurodivergence & how it is not a personality test. It's not “Which quirky brain are you?” It's not “I'm such an Aquarius so obviously I can't do laundry.”And I say that as a person who loves a good identity moment.Neurodiversity is the idea that human brains vary—like biodiversity, but for minds. There isn't one “correct” way a brain must work to be worthy. Neurodivergent is a non-medical term people use when their brain develops or functions differently from what society calls “typical.”Now—this matters— Saying “it's a difference” does not erase disability. Some people are deeply disabled by ADHD or autism. Some need significant supports. Some don't. Many fluctuate across seasons of life. But the point is: difference isn't the same thing as defect.A patterned brain can be brilliant and still struggle. Because a lot of suffering isn't just “the brain,” it's the brain + the environment.If the world is built for one nervous system style, and you're running a different operating system, you're going to feel like you're constantly doing life on hard mode.[pause]And if you've spent your whole life trying to “fix” yourself into the version of you that makes other people comfortable— I just want to say: I see you. That's exhausting. That's not personal weakness. That's chronic mismatch.6:00–15:00 — ADHD vs Autism: Overlap and differences (clear, non-weird)Let's do ADHD vs autism without turning it into a simplistic “either/or” checklist, because real humans are not BuzzFeed quizzes.ADHD (core pattern)ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition where the core struggles involve attention regulation, impulsivity, and executive functioning—planning, starting, stopping, shifting, organizing, time sense, working memory… the invisible stuff that makes life run. Important: ADHD is not “can't pay attention.” It's can't consistently regulate attention—especially when bored, stressed, overwhelmed, under-stimulated, or over-stimulated.One research-heavy way people talk about ADHD is the “default mode interference” idea—basically, brain networks involved in internal thought can intrude when you're trying to stay on task. It's not the only model, but it helps explain why focus can feel like trying to hold water in your hands.Real-life ADHD examples:* You can focus for hours on something you care about… and cannot start the thing you care about that also feels hard.* You lose time like it's a hobby.* You forget what you're doing while you're doing it.* You can be highly intelligent and still struggle with basic tasks because executive function isn't IQAutism (core pattern)Autism is also neurodevelopmental. Clinically, it involves:* differences in social communication and interaction across contexts* and restricted/repetitive patterns (routines, sameness, focused interests, stimming, etc.) Also—and this is big—many autistic people experience sensory processing differences: the world can be too loud, too bright, too unpredictable… or sometimes not enough and you seek sensation.Researchers also explore prediction-based models—how the brain learns patterns and predicts what's next, and how differences in prediction/updating may relate to autistic experience. It's nuanced (and not every study supports every claim), but it's a helpful lens for why uncertainty can feel physically stressful.Real-life autism examples:* Social rules can feel like invisible ink.* You may crave clarity and directness and feel drained by ambiguity.* Transitions can hit like a wall.* You might have deep, intense interests that feel regulating and grounding. So then, hers the overlap, why it's confusing. ADHD and autism can both include:* sensory sensitivity* emotional overwhelm* social exhaustion* executive dysfunction* hyperfocus* stimming/fidgeting* burnoutSo yes, overlap is real. Which brings us to the main character of today's episode…Patreon & focused adAuDHD: The overlap, the “double bind,” and why it's missedAuDHD is shorthand for being both autistic and ADHD. It's not a separate DSM diagnosis label, but it's a very real lived experience.And historically, here's why many adults didn't get recognized: Before DSM-5 (2013), autism could prevent someone from also being diagnosed with ADHD—even though many people clearly had both. DSM-5 changed that, acknowledging the reality of co-occurrence. PMC+1Co-occurrence is common enough that researchers and clinicians have been studying it heavily; some reviews discuss high overlap rates (numbers vary by study and method), but the key point is: this isn't rare. PMC+1Now the AuDHD “double bind” can look like:* ADHD traits can mask autism traits (you seem spontaneous and social… until you crash).* Autism traits can mask ADHD traits (you seem organized because you built rigid systems… until the system breaks and chaos floods the house).* You can be sensory avoidant and sensory seeking.* You can crave routine and crave novelty.AuDHD often feels like living in a brain that says:“I need sameness.” “I need dopamine.” “I need quiet.” “I need stimulation.” “I need certainty.” “I need freedom.”…and they're all yelling at once. [small laugh]So when people say, “But you don't seem autistic,” or “You don't seem ADHD,” sometimes what they're actually noticing is: your traits are playing tug-of-war.23:00–32:00 — The AuDHD Paradox Show (real-life examples)Paradox #1: Routine vs noveltyAutism: “Same breakfast. Same spoon.” ADHD: “If I eat the same breakfast again I will emotionally file for divorce.”Real life: You create the perfect morning routine. It works for four days. On day five your brain wakes up and goes: “Actually, we hate that now.”Not because you're flaky. Because the need for predictability and the need for stimulation are both legitimate.Paradox #2: Social craving vs social costADHD can crave social stimulation. Autism can find social processing costly.Real life: You make plans and feel excited. Then the day arrives and your body feels like you're trying to attend a party wearing jeans made of sandpaper.So you cancel, then feel guilty, then feel lonely, then feel annoyed that humans require maintenance. [pause] Relatable.Paradox #3: Sensory seeking vs sensory painReal life: Loud music helps you focus… until one more sound happens and suddenly you're like, “I live in a cave now.”You can want pressure and weight and deep sensory input while also being destroyed by light touch or fluorescent lights.Paradox #4: Hyperfocus vs shutdownReal life: You can research a niche topic for six hours and forget you have a body… but you cannot reply to a two-sentence text.Because replying requires:* context switching* social interpretation* decision making* emotional energy* working memoryAnd your brain is like, “That's 12 tasks. No thanks.”Paradox #5: Justice sensitivity + impulsivityReal life: You notice something unfair. Your body becomes a courtroom. ADHD makes you say it immediately. Autism makes you say it precisely. And suddenly everyone is uncomfortable and you're like, “What? I brought facts.”Paradox #6: The “I'm fine” lieA lot of AuDHD adults become world-class at looking “fine.” Not because it's fine—because it's practiced.Real life: You hold it together all day. Then you get home and collapse like a puppet whose strings got cut.That is not you being dramatic. That is nervous system math.Strategies: “Rails not cages” + tools that actually workAlright. Let's talk tools—AuDHD-friendly, reality-based, and not built on shame.Rule #1: Build rails, not cagesA cage is a rigid routine that breaks the second you miss a step. Rails are guiding tracks that keep you moving even on messy days.Do this: Create three anchors, not a full schedule.* Anchor 1: Start — water + meds + protein OR any “first 5 minutes” ritual* Anchor 2: Midday reset — sensory check + movement + hydration* Anchor 3: Land — dim lights + predictable wind-down cueIf you miss an anchor, you don't throw away the day. You grab the next rail.Rule #2: Rotate instead of “routine”AuDHD often needs predictability in category and novelty in options.So instead of one rigid breakfast, do a Breakfast Rotation Menu:* 5 safe breakfasts* 3 “no-cook” defaults* 2 “my brain is fried” emergency optionsSame for outfits. Same for playlists. Same for chores.It's not indecision. It's accommodating the paradox.Rule #3: Sensory first, then strategyIf your nervous system is in siren mode, no planner hack will work.2-minute reset:* change input: step away / dim light / earplugs* add steady sensation: pressure, cold sip, gum, textured object* long exhale (longer out than in)You're not “calming down.” You're changing states.Rule #4: Externalize executive function (because willpower isn't storage)Executive function can tank under stress in ADHD and autism. So stop trying to “remember harder.”Externalize:* visual timers* one-step checklists* “landing pads” (keys, meds, bag)* pre-decisions (“If it's Tuesday, I do X”)If it has to live only in your head, it will get evicted.Rule #5: Transition protocol (gentle, not militant)Transitions can be brutal because they require stopping, switching, sensory changes, and decision-making.5-minute bridge:* “Close” the old task: write one sentence: “Next I start by ____.”* body bridge: stand, water, stretch* 2-minute micro-start on the new task (so it's not a cliff)Rule #6: Scripts are accessibility toolsScripts aren't fake. They're scaffolding.Steal these:* “I want to, but my brain can't today. Can we reschedule?”* “What's the plan and how long are we staying?”* “I'm going quiet to regulate, not because I'm mad.”* “I need a minute to process before I answer.”Rule #7: Stop treating burnout like a personal failureBurnout often comes from masking, chronic mismatch, sensory load, and executive demand. You don't fix burnout with hustle. You fix it with less demand and more support.Quick audit:* What drains me that I keep calling “normal”?* Where am I denying myself accommodations because I want to look “easy”?* What would sustainability look like—literally, this week?So here's what I want you to take with you:Your brain isn't broken. It's patterned. And patterned brains don't need shame. They need fit. They need support. They need design.If this episode hit you in the chest a little—breathe. You're not behind. You're not defective. You're learning your pattern. And that's not a small thing. That's a homecoming.If you want, share this episode with the friend who keeps calling themselves “too much.”And if you're new here—welcome. You're safe. You're seen.And as always: this is educational, not medical advice. If you're seeking diagnosis or support, a qualified clinician can help you sort what's AuDHD and what's trauma, anxiety, sleep, hormones, or burnout wearing a trench coat. Until nextt time, stay authentic my friend, & we will talk soon.SubStack Page: Get full access to carmen_authenticallyadhd at carmenauthenticallyadhd.substack.com/subscribe

Send a text for comments or topics ideas!  

For this special Spectator Out Loud, Sarah Perry reads her short story Slipshod, from the Spectator's Christmas issue. The story follows an academic tasked with reconstructing a disturbing incident involving two long-standing colleagues whose close friendship unravels under the weight of envy, illness – and something harder to explain. What emerges from the investigation is a chilling reflection on rivalry, resentment and how buried histories can resurface with devastating consequences.Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

(Presented by ThreatLocker (https://threatlocker.com/threebuddyproblem): Allow what you need. Block everything else by default, including ransomware and rogue code.) Three Buddy Problem - Episode 78: We close out the year with a no-budget, no-permission awards show, spotlighting the cybersecurity stories that actually mattered. Plus, a bizarre polygraph scandal at CISA, Chinese APT research dumps, ransomware pre-notification hiccups, foreign drone bans, and the growing gap between cyber theater and real operational value. Cast: Juan Andres Guerrero-Saade (https://twitter.com/juanandres_gs), Ryan Naraine (https://twitter.com/ryanaraine) and Costin Raiu (https://twitter.com/craiu).

WE'RE LOUD FEST IS A NOMADIC EVENT, HELD IN A DIFFERENT COUNTRY EVERY YEAR. PAST EDITIONS HAVE BEEN HELD IN GREECE, TURKEY, ITALY, PUERTO RICO, MEXICO, VIETNAM, THE USA, AND FOR 2025 WE HAVE CHOSEN KENYA. WE'RE LOUD FEST TRAVELS WITH US TO OUR FAVORITE PLACES ON THE PLANET. TO UNLIKELY PLACES, WHERE FESTIVALS OF THIS TYPE DON'T HAPPEN OFTEN (IF EVER).

There was a time when the holidays didn't feel peaceful at all. They felt heavy. Loud. Forced. Smiles on the outside, chaos on the inside.This year feels different. Not perfect – but peaceful. And what I've realized is… Peace hits different when you've learned it.Not when life is easy. Not when everything goes your way. But when you've done the work. When you've healed what you've avoided. When you stopped chasing things that were costing you your sanity.This episode isn't about pretending life is great. It's about recognizing growth. You didn't even know you were building. And if you're ending this year, feeling calmer – but not loud about it – this one's for you.

ADHD IS NO JOKE! It's a serious neurodevelopmental condition... so serious in fact, that we need some comic relief! My husband Big and I hope you enjoy this slightly longer and EXTRA RIDICULOUS Boxing Day Special! The Most ADHD Thing episodes turn tragedy into comedy; laughing at the things that would usually make us cry.  Eradicating shame, whilst uniting the ADHD adult community and raising crucial ADHD awareness. We are all in this together!Trigger Warning:  contains swearing, gallows humour(!) sexual references, LOUD laughter and mentions of grief and bereavement, alchohol, accidental injury, menty b's,  the odd squeal, general too-muchness and some terrible accents! If you are struggling, lo siento. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Please reach out for help⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ENORMOUS THANKS to you all for submitting your entries and to Big; the real hero of all things ADHDAF! The Leopard Print Army Salute you! You can:- Read the new ADHDAF+ Charity Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- Register Interest in ADHDAF+ Charity's FREE Peer Support Groups to get email reminders ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- Apply to Volunteer to start your own local ADHDAF+ Support Group, Volunteer your time or become an Ambassador ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - shop neurodivergent at ADHDAF Emporium ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠- Watch the ADHDAF Christmas Tour '23 Live Recording Charity Fundraiser ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠If you would like to join the Patreon Community of ADHDAF Podcast listeners to join us for our Xmas morning Zoom and to lean on and learn from literally like-minded legends in an online space that has been going strong for THREE WHOLE YEARS of invaluable Peer support, you can do so ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠You can follow all things ADHDAF on Socials:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@adhdafpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@adhdafplus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@adhdafemporium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauraisadhdaf⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you SO MUCH for listening! Please share and leave a comment/review/hit those stars so that others can be signposted to support and know that they're not alone at this challenging time of year. Hope you have had a lovely Xmas and brilliant boxing day and that we made you laugh with our ridiculousness. THANK YOU so much for all of your support throughout this equally tragic and triumphant year like no other. BIG LOVE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Laura⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ x

It's the best-of the Lori & Julia Still Loud podcast, featuring the insufferable Gwyneth Paltrow's role in Marty Supreme, why Heated Rivalry on HBO has everyone talking, Lori's umbilical cord discovery, and the luxury skincare moment you didn't know you needed. Happy Holidays—and STAY LOUD!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Full Show Notes: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/lneniko In today's episode with Dr. Eniko Loud, Dr. Ghazal Sophia Taghavi, and Catherine Staffeldt, esteemed practitioners in the field of bioesthetic dentistry, you'll get to explore the ins and outs of holistic oral care, from proper brushing and flossing techniques to the integration of Ayurvedic practices in dental health. You'll also discover the importance of maintaining a balanced oral microbiome, the benefits of crunchy foods for jaw development, and the lesser-known impacts of dental practices on overall health, including sleep quality and systemic conditions. Plus, we'll delve into innovative treatments like tongue scraping, myofunctional therapy, and bioesthetic dentistry's role in restoring natural mouth function, and much more (like the innovative treatments and care I've been receiving from the Whole Health Dentistry Team out in Scottsdale, Arizona!). Episode Sponsors: Our Place: Upgrade to Our Place today and say goodbye to forever chemicals in your kitchen. Go to fromourplace.com and enter my code BEN at checkout to receive 10% off sitewide. Pique: Pique Teas is where plants and science intersect to produce teas and supplements of unrivaled efficacy, purity, and convenience. Go to Piquelife.com/Ben to get 20% off for life, plus a free starter kit with a rechargeable frother and glass beaker to elevate your ritual. Apollo: Apollo is a safe and non-invasive wearable that actively improves your sleep. Head over to apolloneuro.com/bengreenfield and use code BENGREENFIELD for $90 off. ZBiotics Pre-Alcohol Probiotic: The world's first genetically engineered probiotic that helps break down the toxic byproduct of alcohol, Zbiotics Pre-Alcohol allows you to enjoy your night out and feel great the next day. Order with the confidence of a 100% money-back guarantee and 15% off your first order at zbiotics.com/BEN15. BON CHARGE: BON CHARGE is a holistic wellness brand with a wide range of products that naturally address the issues of modern life. Their products can help you sleep better, perform better, recover faster, balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and so much more. Go to boncharge.com/GREENFIELD and use coupon code GREENFIELD to save 15%.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you all! This episode features Chit and Quae  with many friends of the show getting together to exchange drinks and more. Enjoy!

“You know, there's a man who lives in those clouds. Usually, he sleeps. But when he does wake up, he will open his eyes and do something between a grimace and a smile. When he does that, lightning will flash out from his large front tooth.”                                                               ----------------Today's stories are told by Dawn Spoon, former AFM career missionary on the Palawano Project in the Philippines, and John Kent, former AFM career missionary on the Iwam Project in Papua New Guinea. Subscribe and leave us a review if you enjoyed listening to today's stories!

The podcast 'Loud and Clear' hosted by Francisco Cardenas features Faith Vernick, Executive Vice President and Head of Media Partnerships at Burson. Faith discusses her illustrious career in advertising, highlighting her work on iconic campaigns for brands like Oreo and Nissan. She elaborates on the challenges and strategies behind global marketing, emphasizing the importance of cultural nuances and storytelling. Faith also explores the evolving landscape of advertising, the integration of AI, and the future of media and agency structures. Her insights offer a comprehensive look at blending content creation, media buying, and technology to create impactful campaigns.Guest: Faith Vernick, Executive Vice President and Head of Media Partnerships at BursonProducers:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Victor Cornejo Tell Me More Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠Pranav Kumar at LERMA/⁠⁠⁠Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Francisco Cardenas, Principal of Digital Strategy & Integration at LERMA/⁠⁠⁠

Today’s caller dreads the spotlight but still needs clients. We’ll outline three low-noise, high-trust tactics that bring work to you without daily dancing on social media. Side Hustle School features a new episode EVERY DAY, featuring detailed case studies of people who earn extra money without quitting their job. This year, the show includes free guided lessons and listener Q&A several days each week. Show notes: SideHustleSchool.com Email: team@sidehustleschool.com Be on the show: SideHustleSchool.com/questions Connect on Instagram: @193countries Visit Chris's main site: ChrisGuillebeau.com Read A Year of Mental Health: yearofmentalhealth.com If you're enjoying the show, please pass it along! It's free and has been published every single day since January 1, 2017. We're also very grateful for your five-star ratings—it shows that people are listening and looking forward to new episodes.

A lot changed in B2B this year — new tools, new formats, and new expectations for how brands show up. In this wrap-up episode, Chris and Sylvie revisit the 2025 Talking Too Loud moments hat sparked debate, rewired assumptions, and stuck with them long after the recording ended, including:What the rise of AI revealed about meaning, taste, and human judgmentWhy fear fades once you “look under the bed”How brand is built through memory, permission, and trust — not tacticsWhy audience understanding beats posting cadence every timeThe danger of random acts of marketing — and how to make better betsWhy decisions (even in B2B) are emotionalThe one storytelling principle that shapes every great narrative: transformationLinks to Learn More:Follow Savage on LinkedInFollow Sylvie on LinkedInSubscribe to Talking Too Loud on WistiaWatch on YouTubeFollow Talking Too Loud on InstagramFollow Talking Too Loud on TikTokLove what you heard? Leave us a review!On AppleOn Spotify

Welcome to Day 2 of the 12 Days of Divorce Christmas...also known as the 12 Days of Becoming Her Again.Today we're talking about something no one prepares you for after divorce: when the house is too quiet.Not peaceful quiet.Not restful quiet.The kind of quiet that feels heavy, deafening, and impossible to sit in.When the house feels too quiet, most of us instinctively want to:distractdissociateget busyscrolleatspendnumbAnything to avoid being alone with the silence.But today, Joy and I offer a third option...one that doesn't involve running away or forcing yourself to sit still and “process.”We talk about why:Silence after divorce can dysregulate your nervous systemStillness isn't always calming when you're grievingMany women forget how to play, make noise, and take up space when they're aloneAnd then we invite you into something different.This episode is about:Using sound, volume, and movement as nervous system medicineReclaiming your right to be loud in your own homeReleasing stored emotion through music, voice, and playReconnecting to parts of you that were silenced — as a child, as a wife, as a womanThis is not about being productive. It's not about doing healing “right.”It's about aliveness.If the quiet has been breaking you, this episode will help you meet it differently — with energy, humor, and permission to be big.

In this episode, I'm joined by voice and visibility coach Vasavi Kumar for a powerful conversation about overcoming fear of visibility in business. We dive deep into the neuroscience of saying things out loud, nervous system regulation strategies that actually work, and why mirror work might be your secret weapon for confidence on camera. Vasavi shares her personal journey from therapy to entrepreneurship, including her experience with addiction recovery and how it shaped her approach to authentic visibility. If you've ever hesitated to hit publish, get on camera, or share your real thoughts in business, this conversation will give you the practical tools and mindset shifts you need to show up boldly. We also tackle money mindset, pricing psychology, and why simplifying your business might be the key to scaling it. Connect with Vasvi - Instagram Website   *********************************** ✅Work with me to scale - https://www.suzchadwick.com/amplify ✅1:1 Coaching - https://www.suzchadwick.com/bc ✅Build your coaching & consulting business masterclass - https://www.suzchadwick.com/coach ✅Messy to Magnetic Masterclass - get your biz foundation in place - https://www.suzchadwick.com/messy

Send us a text As mankind deteriorates, The Shining has amused itself with the craft of music. Wretched human filth gather in dark, smoke-filled bars throughout Chicago land lured by the promise of a rock show. With the stage set, the music kicks in and the Shining is on. Loud, grinding guitars; gut-thumping drums; and a driving bass power these electric minstrels. Surrender yourself to the hard and heavy melodic pleasures. Overwhelmed by the experience, you will seek freedom by the admission that you are undeniably part of the Shining. Support the showPodcast edited by Paul Martin.Theme song courtesy of M&R Rush.www.rocknrollchicagopodcast.com

Summary What's it really like growing up in a big family?   In this special Hernon kids takeover podcast, Mike and Alicia's children gather around the mic to tell the honest, funny, and heartfelt story of their upbringing. From loud dinner tables and sibling fights to deep bonds, meaningful traditions, and moments of feeling unseen, the Hernon siblings share what shaped them—for better and for worse.   They talk openly about the challenges of a large family, how sibling relationships filled the gaps when parents were stretched thin, and why intentional traditions mattered more than perfection. Along the way, they relive unforgettable childhood stories (including melted crayons, camping disasters, and a legendary vomiting incident), reflect on personality differences, and offer wisdom for parents raising kids today.   This episode is a gift to parents wondering if they're "doing enough"—and a reminder that love multiplies, even when life is messy.   Key Takeways: 1. Big Families Are Hard—And That's Not a Bad Thing Most of the siblings admitted they didn't always love growing up in a large family—especially as teenagers. But looking back, they see how it built character, resilience, and lifelong relationships. 2. Parents Won't Always Get It Perfect Several siblings shared moments when they felt overlooked or unseen. Yet the overwhelming takeaway was this: they knew they were loved, even when time and energy were limited. 3. Siblings Matter More Than We Realize In a big family, siblings often become secondary parents, confidants, and companions. Those relationships became one of the greatest gifts of their upbringing. 4. Traditions Shape Identity From Christmas breakfasts and dinner games to family retreats and service visits, traditions created a shared story and sense of belonging that lasted into adulthood. 5. Conflict Isn't Failure—It's Formation Fighting, disagreements, and personality clashes were part of the family culture. Learning forgiveness, conflict resolution, and reconciliation turned those struggles into growth. 6. Intentionality Beats Perfection What stood out most wasn't flawless parenting—but parents who cared, listened, showed interest, and tried to be present whenever possible.   Couple Discussion Questions: How do sibling relationships function in your family right now? How might you help strengthen them? How do you currently handle conflict in your home—and what might forgiveness look like more intentionally? What kind of family culture do you hope your children will talk about someday?  

On this episode of #LatinosOutLoud, Rachel La Loca is on location at the Boden Agency headquarters in Miami, FL. She chats with Visual Merchandiser, Fashion Expert and dear friend, Josue Diaz. Josue has over 25 years of developing elevated customer brand experiences and customer-centric environments for brand, luxury, multi-channel, and direct-to-consumer retail of women's and men's ready-to-wear, beauty, jewelry, accessories, and home. The two reminisce on their days working at Televisa and the amazing friendship that came of it. Josue also shares info on his come up in the fashion world, working at major brands like Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vuitton and now BŌKEN KIN. Tune in for his advice on how to break into, and remain in the luxury retail biz. Follow Josue Follow Rachel #LatinosOutLoud #Podcast #Comedy #Fashion #RachelLaLoca

The Latinos Out Loud mics and its mamí were in Miami for a few days, and on this episode #RachelLaLoca chats with content creator and culture shifter Karen Comas. Karen is Victoria's mommy, co-host of the Motherish podcast, the former Culture Marketing Director of the Miami Marlins, and also worked as the Creator Partnerships Manager at Meta for nearly ten years. Today she is founder of boutique management and consulting agency, Sol Haven, built to nurture creators and amplify purpose-driven brands. She's from Peruvian parents and was born and raised in Miami. For more info: https://www.solhavenco.com/ The two gals talk about motherhood (the good, the bad and the ugly), podcasthood, the importance of being authentically YOU and much more. Her instagram handle is quite impressive. You can find her @Karen. Follow Rachel #LatinosOutLoud #Podcast #KarenComas #Karen #Motherish #LatinoStories #Comedy #Motherhood

In this episode of The Lo Life, Lo is joined by one of his closest friends and creative soulmates—Hayley Orrantia, a true multi-hyphenate powerhouse: producer, writer, singer, director, and actress. What unfolds is an unfiltered, wildly entertaining conversation that feels like sitting at the kitchen table with two best friends who are equal parts thoughtful, funny, and just a little feral.The episode kicks off with a deep dive into the P. Diddy documentary produced by 50 Cent, currently trending worldwide. Lo and Hayley unpack their reactions, share unfiltered takes, and explore the cultural ripple effects of a documentary everyone seems to be talking about—but few are brave enough to dissect honestly.From there, the conversation takes a sharp (and hilarious) turn into petty grievances and hot takes—specifically, what we are collectively leaving behind in 2025. Nothing is off-limits. From people who sneeze excessively, mysterious “unnecessary” allergies, and line cutters, to house guests who don't remove their shoes or forget how to act when invited into someone's home—Lo and Hayley say what everyone else is thinking but won't say out loud.The opinions are bold. The energy is chaotic in the best way. The vibe? Straight. No. Chaser.It's unapologetic, a little unhinged, unexpectedly heartwarming, and laugh-out-loud funny—exactly why Lo Lifers keep coming back.So buckle up, press play, and get ready for a candid, hilarious, and deeply relatable conversation that proves sometimes the best therapy is telling the truth with your best friend.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're still digging in the LOL podcast crates and we're taking it back to when Rachel La Loca was on location in Florida. On this episode, she's in the hot seat at Headz Up Barber Shop in Miami Gardens Florida chatting with owner, Hugo "Juice" Tandron. "Juice" is the Official Barber of the Miami Marlins . He's been cutting hair for over thirty years, and operates the first in-stadium barber shop at Loan Depot Park; home of the Miami Marlins. In this conversation, Juice shares a lot about his past, which wasn't always an easy cut. He had it rough, but cutting hair saved his life. He grew up watching his beautician mother hard at work, and eventually started cutting his friends' hair. His talent for the craft shined and now, Juice is all the buzz of the MLB... If you're in the Miami area, head over to The Headz Up Barber Shop @16529 NW 57th Ave, Miami Lakes, FL 33014 Follow Rachel Follow Juice #LatinosOutLoud #Podcast #Comedy #JuiceTheBarber #LatinoStories #RachelLaLoca

Nick Reiner's defense attorney Alan Jackson told reporters there are "very complex and serious issues" in this case and urged the public not to rush to judgment. That's not a throwaway line — it's a signal. But a signal of what? In this interview, defense attorney and former prosecutor Eric Faddis breaks down the defense strategies most likely being developed right now behind closed doors. Nick Reiner has a documented, decades-long history of severe drug addiction. He entered rehab at 15. By 22, he'd been through 17 treatment programs. He's spoken publicly about methamphetamine, heroin, homelessness, and violent episodes while using — including destroying everything in his parents' guest house during a drug-fueled breakdown. His father Rob Reiner directed a semi-autobiographical film about Nick's addiction called "Being Charlie." In interviews promoting the film, Rob said he told his son: "I'd rather you hate me than be dead in the street." The family's struggle with Nick's addiction was painfully public for years. So how does the defense use that history without appearing to blame the victims? Can a documented pattern of addiction and mental health crises reduce first-degree murder to second-degree — or even manslaughter? What does it mean that Nick wasn't medically cleared to appear at his initial arraignment? We also examine what happens if prosecutors pursue the death penalty. What mitigating factors will the defense present? And how effective are addiction and mental illness arguments in California capital cases? This is Part 2 of a two-part series. Watch Part 1: The Prosecution's Case for the full picture. #NickReiner #RobReiner #ReinerCase #TrueCrime #CriminalDefense #MentalHealth #Addiction #CaliforniaLaw #MurderTrial #BreakingNews Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

If you had "unhinged presidential address" on your bingo card, congratulations—you're as exhausted as we are. Stephanie Miller is back to dissect the latest rhetorical rollercoaster, from the bewildering claims to the even more bewildering reactions. It's an episode of intelligent mockery, deep-dive analysis, and a much-needed reality check. Grab a drink and let's laugh so we don't cry. With guests Karl Frisch & Allison Gill!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump yells and blames Biden during his Presidential address. Republicans are not happy with Trump's address. Mike Johnson has completely lost control of the House. The FCC chair admits he's just Trump's lackey. Polling shows AOC beating JD Vance in a hypothetical match-up.  Host: John Iadarola (@johniadarola) Co-Host: Michael Shure (@michaelshure) ***** SUBSCRIBE on YOUTUBE TIKTOK  ☞        https://www.tiktok.com/@thedamagereport INSTAGRAM  ☞   https://www.instagram.com/thedamagereport TWITTER  ☞         https://twitter.com/TheDamageReport FACEBOOK  ☞     https://www.facebook.com/TheDamageReportTYT

In today's episode, I talk about why frequency drives every choice I make and how purpose becomes the filter for everything from my work to my relationships. I share why consistency always outperforms sporadic effort and how the extra mile traps so many people in short bursts of motivation. I explain the power of small daily commitments, the way energy accelerates and compounds over time, and what it feels like to live in the empty mile where few people are willing to show up. I also open up about my work with the Unstoppable Foundation and why service anchors everything I do.

On today's show, Pat, Darius Butler, and the boys are joined by 3x Super Bowl Champion, and former Head Coach of the Arizona Cardinals and Tampa Bay Bucs, Bruce Arians to recap last night's Monday Night Football game as the Steelers beat the hell out of the Dolphins in the cold in Pittsburgh, and eliminated them from the playoffs. Joining the progrum to recap last night's MNF game and look ahead to some of the bigger news stories of the week is ESPN NFL Insider/analyst/host and host of the Schrager Hour, Peter Schrager. Next, 12 year NFL veteran at QB, ESPN NFL analyst/QB guru, Dan Orlovsky joins the show to chat about the Steelers offense, the issues plaguing Tua and the Dolphins, what his biggest takeaway's from week 15 were, what he thinks Phil Rivers will do next week, and more. Later, co-found and CEO of Big Loud, Seth England joins the show to chat about his career in the music industry, some of the best artists that he's worked with, the culture he's established at Big Loud, and much much more. Make sure to subscribe to youtube.com/thepatmcafeeshow or watch on ESPN (12-2 EDT), ESPN's Youtube (12-3 EDT), or ESPN+. We appreciate the hell out of all of you, we'll see you tomorrow. Cheers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

0:00 Intro 0:07 Defense 3:13 Fiances boss 5:06 Loud music 6:30 Cutting 7:41 Scam 9:05 Driveway 11:18 Pens 12:21 Spice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices