Podcast appearances and mentions of mary ellen

In this Midweek Mini, Mary Ellen wraps up her incredible European adventure with a family of five, taking us through Belgium, including Antwerp, Bruges, and Brussels. From navigating train travel with kids to indulging in Belgian chocolate, waffles, and exploring Mini Europe and the Atomium, she shares the highs, the chaos, and the lessons learned along the way.Mary Ellen highlights how points and miles made this trip possible, from booking flights on points with Capital One to scoring nearly free hotels, all while keeping the family's out-of-pocket costs remarkably low. She also shares real-life travel hacks, like pre-ordering allergy-friendly airline meals, finding the best playgrounds, and creative ways to make a European vacation work for families on a budget.Whether you're planning your first family trip abroad or looking to stretch your travel budget further, this episode is packed with practical tips, inspiration, and a few wild stories that every parent can relate to.Episode SponsorFlipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!)Mentioned in this episode:Europe Trip Part 1 (England)Part 2 (France)Part 3 (the Netherlands)Find Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Comfrt.com 15% OFFChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Tis the season indeed! We are working our hell week this week. The normal busy week for locals is the week between Christmas and New years but for Kelly, its the week before! We found time to do the Lighted Jeep Ride and the famous Mary Ellen's Vibrator Races - Hilarious BTWAlso we are ramping up for Mile 0 Fest!! Get your tickets at the link below to support us! Prices are the same either way, clicking that link just supports your favorite podcast!!!⁠⁠https://go.mile0fest.com/theconciergegirl⁠

Celebrate the magic of Christmas travel done smartly in this festive midweek mini episode of Wonderland on Points. Mary Ellen shares how she pulled off a dreamy, budget-friendly Christmas Eve getaway to New York City with her preschooler using points and miles, from scoring affordable Amtrak tickets to booking a Times Square hotel that would have cost over $1,000 per night for just 29,000 Hyatt points. You'll hear practical tips for Amtrak booking and upgrades, smart seat selection for kid-friendly Broadway-style shows like the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular, and how Hyatt's Brand Explorer “Hyatt Bingo” can unlock valuable free night certificates. Along the way, the episode highlights simple joys like New York pizza in bed, a magical Disney Store moment, and the power of solo parent-child trips made possible through points and miles. Perfect for families looking to travel more, spend less, and create meaningful holiday memories, this episode is packed with real-world strategies and Christmas cheer.Episode SponsorFlipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!)Find Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogHoliday Gift Ideas for Travel LoversAffiliate Links:Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

The Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce moves next month from Harbor Place on Merrimack Street to a storied Washington Street storefront.Greater Haverhill Chamber President and CEO Katie Cook appeared on WHAV's “Win for Breakfast” program Monday and said the business organization moves to the city's retail heart about the middle of January.“The Chamber should be storefront, down, usually accessible for individuals to pop in and ask questions about businesses. We're excited for the opportunity,” she said.In fact, the 29 Washington St. location once housed Kaleidoscope Gallery, a pottery shop founded in 1976 by urban pioneer Raymond F. Eason and his and his wife Mary-Ellen. They were among the first to see the potential rebirth of the street from manufacturing to retail uses.The building was recently renovated by developer Jonathan Cody's Atlantis Investments.It's the latest move for the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce that last moved in 2018 into two offices on the third-floor incubator space at Harbor Place. Then-Chamber President and CEO Dougan Sherwood brought the Chamber from the second floor at 80 Merrimack St., to help support the then-UMass Lowell Innovation Hub. Prior to Merrimack Street, the Chamber's longtime home was 87 Winter St., where poet John Greenleaf Whittier went to high school when the brick building served as Haverhill Academy.The new offices are between The Hill Downtown Tavern, just formerly known G's, and Kwik Stop Convenience on the north side of Washington Street. Cook told WHAV, the Chamber will need a couple of weeks to get the location ready.“Don't judge us when we first get in there. We got to take some time to decorate and re-arrange our furniture, but we‘ll get it figured out.”Cook also emphasized the “greater” in the Chamber's name, noting surrounding towns are also very much part of the organization. She recently launched the Methuen Business Alliance and plans similar groups for Georgetown and Groveland.“I've been trying to think of a way to let each community feel seen and connect to their business communities. I think we do a really great job here in Haverhill, but the rest of the communities feel a little ignored,” she explained.Now, for example, the Methuen Business Alliance will launch Methuen Restaurant Week during the last week of January. Much like Haverhill's Restaurant Week, it will showcase Methuen's dining establishments with about 15 restaurants signup so far.Support the show

This is a short episode to celebrate 3 years of My Mourning Routine Podcast, launched on Winter Solstice 2022, as well as honor the recent 10th Anniversary of Lauren's mother's death.  Here, she shares a letter that she wrote to her mother, Mary Ellen, on December 17, 2025 during a reflective morning of remembrance. *TIME SENSITIVE:  Lauren opened the doors today 12/21/25 to work with her 1:1 in the New Year.  She is only accepting FIVE new clients to go on a 3-month journey into the heart with, beginning the week of January 5, 2026.  DEADLINE to sign up: December 28, 2025!  Contact Lauren @lauren.samay or through  www.laurensamay.com for an application & more information. ----------- Get Lauren's 10-Min Meditation for Grief to support you on your journey! This meditation is for you if you're looking to: Lower Stress, Increase your Peace, Connect to your Heart, and Give your energy back to Joy You can connect with Lauren on Instagram via @lauren.samay and @mymourningroutinepodcast, on Facebook @lauren.samay.coaching or through www.laurensamay.com If you are tuning in and finding value in these episodes, please take a moment to rate and review My Mourning Routine on Apple Podcasts-- it means so much and helps make a bigger, connecting splash in the podcasting pond!  

Do you feel someone or something stands in the way of your joy? Have you ever felt you were chasing joy but never quite catching it? Does it seem others are more deserving of joy than you? Listen as Mary Ellen shares an important message and reminder that joy is your birthright and awaits your acceptance of it.Support the show

From a childhood shaped by “do your best” to pioneering flight simulators, leading at IBM, founding a mobile software company, and creating IEEE's MOVE disaster-relief and STEM outreach program, her journey spans math, mentorship and mission-driven technology. This conversation dives into the pivotal moments, bold career shifts, and global impact of a leader using engineering to serve humanity.00:09- About Mary Ellen RandallMary Ellen Randall is the Founder and CEO of Ascot Technologies and a former IBM leader with decades of experience spanning flight simulator software, chip and systems development, operating systems, networking, and enterprise mobile solutions.A long-time IEEE volunteer and global leader, she has served as Region Director, Treasurer, President-Elect and now President, and is the creator of the IEEE MOVE program, combining disaster relief, STEM outreach, and “technology for the benefit of humanity” on a global scale.

How do you define peace and where do you find peace in your life? Is it possible that peace is wherever you find yourself?  Listen as Mary Ellen shares some thoughts about the starting point of peace. She also shared one of her favorite poems,  I AM There by James Dillet Freeman (published by Unity.)"Do you need Me?I am there. You cannot see Me, yet I am the light you see by.You cannot hear Me, yet I speak through your voice.You cannot feel Me, yet I am the power at work in your hands. I am at work, though you do not understand My ways. I am at work, though you do not recognize My works. I am not strange visions. I am not mysteries."Only in absolute stillness, beyond self, can you know Me as I am, and then but as a feeling and a faith.Yet I am there. Yet I hear. Yet I answer. When you need Me, I am there. Even if you deny Me, I am there. Even when you feel most alone, I am there.Even in your fears, I am there.Even in your pain, I am there."I am there when you pray and when you do not pray.I am in you, and you are in Me. Only in your mind can you feel separate from Me, for only in your mind are the mists of “yours” and “mine.”Yet only with your mind can you know Me and experience Me. Empty your heart of empty fears. When you get yourself out of the way, I am there."You can of yourself do nothing, but I can do all.And I am in all. Though you may not see the good, good is there, for I am there.I am there because I have to be, because I am. Only in Me does the world have meaning; only out of Me does the world take form; only because of Me does the world go forward."I am the law on which the movement of the stars and the growth of living cells are founded. I am the love that is the law's fulfilling. I am assurance. I am peace. I am oneness. I am the law that you can live by. I am the love that you can cling to. I am your assurance. I am your peace. I am one with you. I am."Though you fail to find Me, I do not fail you. Though your faith in Me is unsure, My faith in you never wavers, because I know you, because I love you.Beloved, I am there."Support the show

*TRIGGER WARNINGThis episode discusses sensitive topics including loss through miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. Certain portions of the episode might prove too graphic for some listeners.ShownotesIn this week's episode, Jennifer has a conversation with bereavement doula and sociologist, Dr. Abby Jorgensen to discuss the challenges faced by both lay people and the Church when it comes to discussing this difficult topic. She also provides clarity on an end of life doula vs. grief doula (loss of child) and what it is like to accompany someone in the grief work she does through her ministry, Haven Bereavement Doulas. Our GuestDr. Abby Jorgensen is a Catholic sociologist, doula, and assistant professor at Saint Louis University, where she specializes in the intersections of pregnancy, grief, and faith. She is the author of A Catholic Guide to Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Loss (Ave Maria Press, 2024), a compassionate and practical resource rooted in faith and informed by both research and lived experience. In addition to her academic work, she is a certified birth and bereavement doula and the founder of Haven Bereavement Doulas. Find more about the work of Dr. Abby Jorgensen at: https://catholicbereavementdoula.com, or on social media at Abby the Sociologist Doula.ScripturePsalm 34:18John 19:34LinksHaven Bereavement DoulasSt. Gianna Beretta Molla St. Raymond NonnatusDouble effect - St. Thomas' theologyPrayer for the souls of Mandy, Mary Ellen, Sister Mary Sharon, Dick, and JackJournaling QuestionsWhat stood out to you from this episode or resonated strongly with you? Take some time to reflect on the scripture verse Abby mentioned, Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” How does it make you feel, thinking about the idea that the Lord is close to us when we are brokenhearted? Does it bring you comfort? Was there anything you found yourself relating to in terms of the responses you've received from others, including clergy, as it relates to your loss?Have you ever sought out someone to help you on your grief journey? Did you have trouble finding someone?What is something that surprised you to learn about the work of a grief doula?Abby spoke about the misconceptions she had about St. Gianna Beretta Molla and how, after gaining a better understanding of her journey to sainthood, St, Gianna has become a friend to her. Are there any saints who you have found who bring you comfort and you ask to intercede on your behalf?What is your mourning glory?We hope you enjoy this episode of the Mourning Glory Podcast and share it with others who are on a journey through grief. You can find links to all of our episodes including a link to our brand new private online community on our website at www.mourningglorypodcast.com. 

Send us a textNavigating the holidays as a motherless daughter can be a mix of emotions. There's an expectation of a Norman Rockwell-style family celebration that just doesn't live up to expectations for so many grieving a loss or dealing with a strained relationship. Loved ones of a motherless daughter struggle to understand how she feels or find the right words to say. Today, we are sharing some thoughts and advice from our Founder, Dr. Mary Ellen Collins, on approaching condolences and talking to a motherless daughter this time of year.                                                         Resources                                                                             What We Offer:                       https://www.motherlessdaughtersministry.com/services/Podcast Episode highlights a blog by Mary Ellen: https://www.motherlessdaughtersministry.com/2025/11/19/offering-condolences-over-the-holidays-to-a-motherless-daughter/Donate to our ministry:          https://www.motherlessdaughtersministry.com/giving/Get involved in our ministry:   https://www.motherlessdaughtersministry.com/giving/volunteer/Motherless Daughters Ministry is a 501(c) (3) non-profit that depends on the generous support of donations from listeners like you.  To donate or sign up for our newsletter and more resources, visit our website at www.motherlessdaughtesministry.com  Support the showThanks for listening! Find our podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart, Pandora, Amazon Music, and Audible. Also, find and follow the Motherless Daughters Ministry on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube.

Dateline New Haven: Sister Mary Ellen Burns by WNHH Community Radio

 Probably the earliest official mention of Advent practices comes out of the Council of Sargossa that met in Spain (AD 380) which among other things, encouraged daily church attendance for 21 days December. Today traditions vary but Advent is celebrated by many during the four weeks leading up to Christmas, the celebration of Jesus' birth. But, what good is Advent anyway? Listen as Mary Ellen shares thoughts about making Advent relevant today in your life.  Support the show

Tis the season indeed! We are working our hell week this week. The normal busy week for locals is the week between Christmas and New years but for Kelly, its the week before! We found time to do the Lighted Jeep Ride and the famous Mary Ellen's Vibrator Races - Hilarious BTWAlso we are ramping up for Mile 0 Fest!! Get your tickets at the link below to support us! Prices are the same either way, clicking that link just supports your favorite podcast!!!https://go.mile0fest.com/theconciergegirl​

To celebrate 20 years of Design Matters, Debbie Millman revisits standout moments from past conversations with photographers Catherine Opie, Albert Watson, Pete Souza, Lynn Goldsmith, and Mary Ellen Matthews. These excerpts explore how they approach craft, capture truth, and use the camera to tell the stories that define us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen as Mary Ellen shares some thoughts about Thanksgiving as a holiday with outer activities, plans and expectations versus thanksgiving as a choice and attitude that lead to a life of joy every day. Support the show

Join WRBI News Director Tom Snape, and the rest of the WRBI Crew, for enlightening conversations with fascinating people in Southeastern Indiana. Brew up your favorite beverage, relax, and listen every weekday morning at 9:30.

It's not just social media-reset what your're seeing in life!

It's not just social media-reset what your're seeing in life!

Join WRBI News Director Tom Snape, and the rest of the WRBI Crew, for enlightening conversations with fascinating people in Southeastern Indiana. Brew up your favorite beverage, relax, and listen every weekday morning at 9:30.

Building Community

Building Community

Building Community

Building Community

In the 18th chapter of Luke there is a parable of Jesus which illustrated the importance of being persistent and consistent in prayer. “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.' For some time he refused but finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don't fear God or care what people think, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice...."  Listen as Mary Ellen shares a practical message about persistence and consistence in our prayer practice. Support the show

Brandon Taylor is the author of the novels Minor Black Figures (Riverhead, 2025), The Late Americans and Real Life, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize and the National Book Critics Circle John Leonard Prize, and named a New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice and a Science + Literature Selected Title by the National Book Foundation. His collection Filthy Animals, a national bestseller, was awarded The Story Prize and shortlisted for the Dylan Thomas Prize. He is the 2022-2023 Mary Ellen von der Heyden Fellow at the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center for Scholars and Writers. Recommended Books: Jordan Castro, Muscle Man Grace Byron, Herculine Edith Warton, Ethan Frome Emile Zola, Germinal The History of Sound (Film) Chris Holmes is Chair of Literatures in English and Professor at Ithaca College. He writes criticism on contemporary global literatures. His book, Kazuo Ishiguro Against World Literature, is published with Bloomsbury Publishing. He is the co-director of The New Voices Festival, a celebration of work in poetry, prose, and playwriting by up-and-coming young writers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brandon Taylor is the author of the novels Minor Black Figures (Riverhead, 2025), The Late Americans and Real Life, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize and the National Book Critics Circle John Leonard Prize, and named a New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice and a Science + Literature Selected Title by the National Book Foundation. His collection Filthy Animals, a national bestseller, was awarded The Story Prize and shortlisted for the Dylan Thomas Prize. He is the 2022-2023 Mary Ellen von der Heyden Fellow at the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center for Scholars and Writers. Recommended Books: Jordan Castro, Muscle Man Grace Byron, Herculine Edith Warton, Ethan Frome Emile Zola, Germinal The History of Sound (Film) Chris Holmes is Chair of Literatures in English and Professor at Ithaca College. He writes criticism on contemporary global literatures. His book, Kazuo Ishiguro Against World Literature, is published with Bloomsbury Publishing. He is the co-director of The New Voices Festival, a celebration of work in poetry, prose, and playwriting by up-and-coming young writers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Brandon Taylor is the author of the novels Minor Black Figures (Riverhead, 2025), The Late Americans and Real Life, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize and the National Book Critics Circle John Leonard Prize, and named a New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice and a Science + Literature Selected Title by the National Book Foundation. His collection Filthy Animals, a national bestseller, was awarded The Story Prize and shortlisted for the Dylan Thomas Prize. He is the 2022-2023 Mary Ellen von der Heyden Fellow at the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center for Scholars and Writers. Recommended Books: Jordan Castro, Muscle Man Grace Byron, Herculine Edith Warton, Ethan Frome Emile Zola, Germinal The History of Sound (Film) Chris Holmes is Chair of Literatures in English and Professor at Ithaca College. He writes criticism on contemporary global literatures. His book, Kazuo Ishiguro Against World Literature, is published with Bloomsbury Publishing. He is the co-director of The New Voices Festival, a celebration of work in poetry, prose, and playwriting by up-and-coming young writers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/literature

Join WRBI News Director Tom Snape, and the rest of the WRBI Crew, for enlightening conversations with fascinating people in Southeastern Indiana. Brew up your favorite beverage, relax, and listen every weekday morning at 9:30.

In this midweek mini, Mary Ellen continues her Netherlands adventure with a day trip to Utrecht and the stunning Castle de Haar. She shares the story behind this “modern-meets-medieval” castle, the beautiful gardens and moat, and even a family canoe ride through the canals. Along the way, she offers tips for traveling with kids, packing for picture-perfect moments, and making the most of less-crowded Dutch destinations.Find Us On OnlineMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogMentioned in this EpisodeAffiliate LinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card Links30% off the CardPointers subscription!FlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsComfrt Hoodie 15% OFF!Our Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Patrick returns to the mic and responds to a series of heartfelt listener calls: Macy’s concerns about parenting in the Church amid public same-sex relationships, Nathan’s struggle between finishing an engineering degree or pursuing missionary work, Mary Ellen’s anxiety over confession, Diane’s questions about Catholic school policy for children of same-sex couples, and Sandra’s challenge explaining Mary’s Immaculate Conception to Protestants. He addresses these situations with a mix of honest counsel, humor, and direct references to Catholic teaching, offering both spiritual reassurance and practical advice. Through it all, Patrick’s warmth and clarity stir real engagement with issues of faith, family, and conscience. Macy – There are two women at our church who are in a same sex relationship and one of them received Communion. Should I leave this Church? (01:08) Nathan - I am about to drop out of engineering school to do missionary work. Is it worth getting a college degree if I want to work in the Church? (08:38) Richard - How graphic do I need to be with the priest in Confession? (19:36) Diane – What if a gay couple wants to put their kids in a Catholic school? (32:40) Sandra – Is it true that if Mary is without sin, then she doesn't need Jesus? (40:11) Maggie - I am concerned about my daughter's ex-husband wanting to introduce his girlfriend to their children and grand-children? (47:30)

Mary Ellen's Europe trip continues! In this Midweek Mini, we dive into the first half of her family's adventures in Amsterdam. From late-night train arrivals to Hyatt stays with Club Access, to Dutch chocolate surprises and the reality of navigating Amsterdam's overwhelming bike culture—this one has plenty of laughs and lessons.We chat about the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam and how points strategy paired with club access made the stay smoother for the kids. Mary Ellen shares what it was really like trying to bike through downtown Amsterdam compared to the calm of Vondelpark, and why Amsterdam's reputation as a biking paradise can feel very different when you've got children in tow.Find Us On OnlineMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links30% off the CardPointers subscription!Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsComfrt Hoodie 15% OFF!Our Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

In the book of Genesis there a story of twins, Jacob and Esau. There was great animosity when Jacob tricked Esau out of his inheritance! They went their separate ways and after time passed they joyously reunited. Listen as Mary Ellen shares a practical message that solves the mystery of how you (Jacob) and you (Esau) separated and how you reunited. For those who are interested in metaphysical meanings within Genesis we recommend Mysteries of Genesis by Charles Fillmore, published by Unity Books.Follow the link below if you are guided to share a donation.Support the show

In this powerful three-way conversation, Will sits down with venture capitalist Rick Segal and Mary Ellen Beliveau, former CEO of Knowledge to Practice, a health-tech startup that raised millions in funding before ultimately going bankrupt.Mary Ellen opens up about the highs and lows of leading a fast-growing company, the pressure that comes with raising significant capital, and the tough realities of managing growth, investors, and team expectations. She shares the hard-won lessons she learned from the collapse—and how failure can become a foundation for future success.Alongside Rick Segal's investor perspective and Will's entrepreneurial insights, this episode offers an unfiltered look into what it really takes to build—and sometimes lose—a company. Whether you're a founder, investor, or dreamer, you'll walk away with wisdom on resilience, leadership, and the hidden truths of the startup world.

Penny was drinking in dive bars and alone at home mostly, but after being pulled off the field at a softball game, she called AA "for a friend." She tells Don and Sam how she was told to approach the first woman she saw at the meeting and tell her she's a newcomer. Instead, she approached a woman crying, and woman said, "oh, you're a newcomer." The three also talk about the early days of online meetings. There's Listener Feedback on politics in AA from Dan, John, Don, Cindy and Mary Ellen, and on religion and AA from Joe. Snow shares her love for the Grapevine, and there's a bonus section at the end with letters from Nathan, Paz and Mick.While we provide the podcast at no charge, we do have expenses. Grapevine is the only AA entity that does not accept direct contributions, so to support the AA Grapevine Podcast, please subscribe to Grapevine Magazine in print, online, or on the Grapevine app. You can also provide a subscription to someone in need through our "Carry the Message" program or purchase books or other items at aagrapevine.org/storeYou can email us at podcast@aagrapevine.org. To record an Ask-It-Basket question or a recovery-related joke, call 212-870-3418 or email a voice recording to podcast@aagrapevine.org

What's it really like to explore Paris, Bayeux and Normandy on points with three kids in tow? In this episode, Mary Ellen picks up the next chapter of her European adventure and shares the highlights (and surprises!) from her family's time in France. From climbing to a free Parisian viewpoint with stunning Eiffel Tower views to staying in a charming chateau in Bayeux booked with her Venture X credit, this leg of the trip was unforgettable.We dive into her day trip to the beaches of Normandy, including Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery, with a guided tour that brought history to life. Mary Ellen opens up about the emotional impact of visiting these sites, why it was worth the splurge, and how she made it work with kids — even with a toddler in tow.If Paris, Bayeux, or a D-Day tour has ever been on your bucket list, this episode will give you practical tips, inspiration, and a peek behind the scenes of family travel on points.EPISODE SPONSOR30% off the CardPointers subscription!Find Us On OnlineMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate LinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsComfrt Hoodie 15% OFF!Our Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

In the the gospel of Matthew we find when Jesus was asked what is the greatest commandment. His answer is to love God and to love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:36-40)  Listen as Mary Ellen speaks about connecting with the power of love and healing for ourselves and others.If you are guided to share a gift of appreciation for our podcasts please follow the link below.Support the show

Building tomorrow's workforce starts with more than just technical skills—it requires access, mentorship, and leaders willing to invest in students long before they enter the job market.In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Mary Ellen Stanek, Co-Founder and CIO Emeritus of Baird Asset Management, shares how one of the nation's most respected investment firms thinks about talent, education, and inclusion. She reflects on being the first woman to chair a major civic leadership group, the creation of the award that now bears her name for advancing diversity in corporate governance, and how internships are shaping the next generation of professionals.Mary Ellen also unpacks how AI is changing finance while elevating the need for human judgment, and why Baird invests millions into education initiatives that expand opportunity—programs like Cristo Rey's work-study model, All-In Milwaukee's 90% college graduation rate, Aug Prep's innovative K-12 approach, and major scholarship funds at Marquette.For educators, employers, and community leaders, this conversation is a roadmap for how business and education can work together to prepare students for meaningful careers and stronger communities anywhere.Listen to learn:How Baird selects 300 interns out of 32,000 applicants each yearWhat it meant to be the first woman to chair the Greater Milwaukee CommitteeThe story behind the Mary Ellen Stanek Award for Diversity in Corporate GovernanceWhy AI boosts productivity in finance but can't replace human judgmentHow All-In Milwaukee achieves a 90% graduation rate with 84% of students debt-free3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:1. Internships are one of the most effective ways to build a talent pipeline. Baird received over 32,000 applications for internships this year and hired just 1%, bringing in 300 students across the firm. About 40% of those rising seniors secure full-time roles, proving the long-term workforce impact of investing in student opportunities.2. Inclusion in leadership transforms organizations and opens doors for others. Mary Ellen began her career as one of the only women in the room, later becoming the first woman to chair the Greater Milwaukee Committee. Today, Baird counts nearly 100 female managing directors, and the Mary Ellen Stanek Award continues to honor leaders driving diversity in corporate governance.3. Education investments create measurable results for students and communities. All-In Milwaukee reports a 90% six-year college graduation rate, with 84% of scholars leaving school debt-free and 91% employed or in graduate programs. Similar investments in Cristo Rey, Aug Prep, and Marquette scholarships demonstrate how targeted support leads to stronger career pathways and local economic growth.Resources:Learn more about Mary Ellen StanekInternships at BairdCristo Rey Jesuit High SchoolSt. Augustine Preparatory AcademyAll-in MilwaukeeBoys aWe want to hear from you! Send us a text.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

According to scripture (John 5:17) when challenged to justify healing on the Sabbath, Jesus said "My Father is always working, and so am I."  Perhaps this was a reminder that observing the Sabbath did not mean there is a cessation of the activity of God. And, because of our connection with God, there is a continuous activity or working that is taking place in us, through us and as us. Listen as Mary Ellen shares this message about the spiritual meaning of work and how to work with God and with our good. If you are guided to share a gift for our podcasts, please follow the link below.Support the show

There's a brand-new premium travel credit card making waves, and it's tied to one of the most consistently top-ranked airline loyalty programs in the U.S. — Alaska Airlines. In this Midweek Mini, Mary Ellen teams up with special guest Betsey from Become Travel Rich (formally Her Alaska Travels) to unpack the launch of the Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Card, a high-end addition to Alaska's lineup that comes with a massive welcome bonus and some surprising perks.Together they dive into what makes this card different, including the new Global Companion Award, how it stacks up against Alaska's existing cards, and which travelers will benefit most. They also cover details like earning categories, lounge access, fee waivers, and the quirks around status points and companion fares. Whether you're loyal to Alaska, fly American as part of the OneWorld alliance, or just want to maximize miles on international trips, this conversation is packed with insights you won't want to missFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoAffiliate LinksCapitalOne Venture and Venture X LinksChase Sapphire Preferred LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Today we are joined by Mark and Mary Ellen Arnold, the Coordinators for Totus Tuus in the diocese. In between shenanigans between Fr. Chad and Mark, we share memorable stories from our time with Totus Tuus, discuss how it promotes the diocesan culture of vocations, and learn about the term "heart sparkle."

Ready to level up your hotel game? This week, Joanna and Mary Ellen are joined by Jenn from @Travel.More.Momma to dive deep into the IHG Rewards program — including the underrated perks that make it worth a spot in your wallet. From the fourth-night-free benefit to creative uses for free night certificates, we cover why even the no-annual-fee IHG card can unlock serious value.Jenn also shares her luxe kids-free getaway to the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa in Grand Cayman, complete with quirky Kimpton touches, poolside flags for cocktail service, and a little-known “secret password” for extra perks. Plus, we compare the Kimpton with another nearby budget-friendly alternative.If you've been sleeping on IHG, this episode will change how you think about free nights, point redemptions, and where to plan your next island escape.Facebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoAffiliate LinksCapitalOne Venture and Venture X LinksChase Sapphire Preferred LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

MaryEllen Lundy has thought of everything, it seems, with An Eco-Organized Approach downsizing! It's inspiring to hear her talk about how circular her system is, from cleaning out to rehoming belongings, and everything in between. She shares a few stories that show just how much thought and care goes into her projects, which makes sense, considering she is entering someone's home and personal space, and helping them let go of things they've held tight to- it takes a very special personality to handle the deep emotional ties that some folks have to their belongings (I'm one of those people - things hold memories for me because my brain doesn't recall well without help), and gently assisting with the removal, or cleanout. MaryEllen has already put a ton of thought into a project before removing anything from the home, like what types of items can be fixed up. or repurposed, donated to a school, community program or a retirement home, or as an absolute last option is landfill. She works so hard to not have landfill be that optionWhen I asked MaryEllen about a message she hopes you'll remember, she said this: "Did you know every item in your home, in your life really…has its own lifetime? Its own beginning, middle, and - thanks to an Eco Organized Approach,  end."You can find all things MaryEllen and An Eco-Organized Approach here: https://anecoorganizedapproach.com/She's on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/anecoorganizedapproach/And on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/AnEcoOrganizedApproachSend me a message!Support the showPlease follow Grounded In Maine podcast on Instagram here YouTube channel link is here You can DM me there or email me at amysgardenjam@gmail.com Website for Amy's Garden Jam is https://amysgardenjam.com/ (podcast has its own tab on this site!) Amy's email newsletter: https://amy-fagan.kit.com/499688fe6a How Do I Get There From Here by Jane Bolduc - listen to more at https://www.janebolduc.com/Podcast cover by Becca Kofron- follow here on Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/cute_but_loud/ and check out her awesome art projects. Grounded in Maine Podcast is hosted by Buzzsprout, the easiest podcast hosting platform with the best customer service! Learn more at https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1851361 You can support this podcast one time (or many) with the Buy me a coffee/Hot Chocolate link here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/groundedinmaine Grounded in Maine Podcast is sponsored by ESG Review. Learn more about the good they're doing at https://esgreview.net/

Mary Ellen's back from London with three kids, a stack of memories, and a jaw-dropping redemption: five tickets to London for just 43,000 points and $0 OUT OF POCKET. In this episode, she shares exactly how she did it — plus the seat map trick that scored her extra legroom for free.We swap stories from our very different London adventures, from royal parks to hidden foodie gems, and even the small missteps that turned into unexpected wins. You'll hear why economy might be the smartest play (even for long-haul), how to keep kids engaged without blowing the budget, and what not to miss if you're planning your own UK trip.Whether you're plotting your first trip to London or looking for fresh ways to stretch your points, this episode is packed with strategies, laughs, and plenty of inspiration.Facebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoEpisode SponsorFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Mentioned in this EpisodeCapitalOne Venture and Venture X LinksAero Lopa Seat MapsLondon PART 1 EpisodeMary Ellen's London AirbnbOther Links30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

(Disclaimer: Click 'more' to see ad disclosure) Geobreeze Travel is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as MileValue.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.  ➤ Free points 101 course (includes hotel upgrade email template)https://geobreezetravel.com/freecourse  ➤ Free credit card consultations https://airtable.com/apparEqFGYkas0LHl/shrYFpUr2zutt5515 ➤ Seats.Aero: https://geobreezetravel.com/seatsaero ➤ Request a free personalized award search tutorial: https://go.geobreezetravel.com/ast-form If you are interested in supporting this show when you apply for your next card, check out https://geobreezetravel.com/cards and if you're not sure what card is right for you, I offer free credit card consultations athttps://geobreezetravel.com/consultations!Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Mary Ellen and The Wonderland on Points Podcast03:35 First redemptions and early mistakes booking via portals04:30 Switzerland trip that convinced her husband of points value08:00 Flights overview – Air France business class with Amex MR09:25 Return flights – Iberia business class via Madrid + transfer bonus10:45 Layover in Madrid and surprising their son with a soccer jersey11:45 Using positioning flights within Europe with no extra points12:45 Why Air France is family-friendly13:30 Hotel 1: Lausanne Palace via Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts14:55 Hotel 2: Interlaken hotel with Capital One credit15:55 Hotel 3: Paid using Hotels.com gift cards via Fetch16:20 Hotel 4: Mount Pilatus mountaintop splurge 17:35 Hotel 5: Zurich Hyatt Place using Chase points17:55 Using maxfhr.com and strategy for choosing $200/night 19:25 Capital One Travel portal tips & 10x point earnings21:45 Upcoming France trip booked with Capital One Travel22:15 How she earned $200+ in Hotels.com gift cards via Fetch23:00 Fetch strategies – referrals, receipts, game hacks24:00 Fetch = free Starbucks or long-term savings for travel25:45 How they avoid budget blowouts by prepping menus and prices26:45 Using Swiss Travel Pass to cover transport and museums27:45 Saving on rainy day activities with free museum access28:25 Budgeting for big excursions like paragliding29:20 Paragliding Interlaken – why they picked a reputable company30:30 Don't skimp on safety with skydiving, LASIK, or paragliding31:15 Visiting Crash Landing on You K-drama filming locations32:45 How the show created a tourism boom in Switzerland33:30 K-drama favorites: Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Vincenzo, Good Boy34:20 Final tip: pick a dream trip to guide your points strategy35:00 Where to find Mary Ellen online and request her Switzerland itinerary35:45 Closing reflection and full-circle podcast momentYou can find Julia at: ➤ Free course: https://julia-s-school-9209.thinkific.com/courses/your-first-points-redemption➤ Website: https://geobreezetravel.com/ ➤ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geobreezetravel/ ➤ Credit card links: https://www.geobreezetravel.com/cards ➤ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/geobreezetravelYou can find the Wonderland on Points Podcast at:➤ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WonderlandonPointsPodcast Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. The content of this video is accurate as of the posting date. Some of the offers mentioned may no longer be available.

I just spent three hours watching Hunter Biden, and I have a lot of thoughts. The interview, done by Andrew Callahan for Channel 5, is something like a confessional crossed with a stand-up set crossed with a Twitter thread that never ends. It's raw, it's chaotic, and weirdly, it's compelling. If you're a politics junkie, a media analyst, or just curious about the human side of scandal, there's a lot to pick apart.First off, the man is online. Not just vaguely aware of what's being said about him — he's terminally online. He knows the jokes, the subtext, the usernames. I'm convinced he has burner accounts. He's tracking how people talk about him in real time, and it bleeds through every answer. He's got a list — Tapper, the Pod Save crew, Alex Jones, Stephen Miller, and on and on. He names names, and he torches them. It's Seth Rollins with a flamethrower.But what's interesting is how seriously he talks about addiction, sobriety, and crack — yes, crack specifically. He draws lines between drugs, dives into the stigma, and explains how being labeled a “crack addict” shaped public perception of him. These are by far the most honest and lucid parts of the interview. And they reveal someone who's done the work of recovery — while still slipping into the old reflexes of deflection when the political heat turns up.He has this quote about “an evil symbiosis between money and power” — and I couldn't help but think, does he hear himself? He's talking about systems he's literally a product of. And yet, he stays focused on everyone else's money. When he brings someone up, it's almost always first by how rich they are. Soros, Tapper, Bannon — doesn't matter who it is, the cash comes first. There's this constant undercurrent of scorekeeping.He also confirms, in his way, that the laptop is real — then turns around and champions the “hallmarks of Russian disinfo” letter like it was gospel. The tension never resolves. He owns up to some things, skirts others, and delivers just enough contradiction to keep everyone debating. Even when he talks about Burisma, he says the quiet part out loud: “I had connections.” That's the trick, the real reason he was on that board. And he knows it.What stuck with me, though, was his resentment. Not anger — that's expected — but a deep, lingering bitterness toward the people he feels used him, abandoned him, or dismissed him. It gives the whole interview a kind of edge that goes beyond politics. When he talks about the media, about Democrats who've distanced themselves, or even about his father, there's a tension. Like he's still waiting for someone to publicly say they screwed him over. He wants vindication as much as he wants attention.And that's where it lands. This wasn't an attempt to reset the narrative — it was a live demo of the very chaos people accuse him of embodying. He wants to be understood, but not too clearly. He wants to admit things, but only on his terms. He wants to lash out, but still come off sympathetic. It's maddening, self-aware, and oddly human. If anything, the interview shows us who Hunter Biden is — and exactly why nobody in the Democratic Party knows what to do with him.Chapters00:00:00 - Intro00:01:09 - Epstein00:05:56 - Hunter Biden00:32:18 - Update00:33:34 - NC Senate Race00:36:40 - Wisconsin Gov. Seat00:38:19 - Florida Redistricting00:39:08 - Interview with Mary Ellen Klas01:17:30 - Wrap-up This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.politicspoliticspolitics.com/subscribe

In 2008, Tom Vander Woude died saving the life of his youngest son. But this radical self-gift was really the culmination of a quiet life of daily virtue with a heart of faith. Chris Vander Woude, the fifth of Tom and Mary Ellen's seven sons, now carries the story of his father's life and death across the country, as well as sharing the process towards canonization that began this year with the assignment of a postulator in Rome. Chris joins us today to speak about fatherhood and the extraordinary man who exemplified it for him. Chris invites you to reach out to him at 5thvwson@gmail.com or info@tvwguild.org. Chapters: 00:04:50 The life of Tom Vander Woude 00:07:34 His sacrificial death 00:17:17 His character 00:23:23 Physical strength: one's readiness for action 00:28:52 Faith: one's trust and mission 00:39:18 Fatherhood and Down syndrome 00:50:52 Father of seven sons: tandem work 01:00:10 Tom's discipline: priorities and good humor 01:04:39 Hosting and friend culture 01:07:44 Tom as a husband 01:13:03 Balancing family and community 01:17:22 Towards canonization 01:28:44 “Man fully alive” Links: Tom Vander Woude Guild, website A Father's Sacrifice, video interviews with the Vander Woude family The Father: 30 Meditations to Draw You into the Heart of God by Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, featuring Tom Vander Woude's story Tragedy at Rattlesnake Falls: Opus Dei Mourns the Drowning of Three of Its Members, National Catholic Register, 3 July 2025 Also on the Forum: Forming Families, Forming Saints featuring Fr. Carter Griffin To the Glory of God and the Memory of Emil Beer by Mark Grannis Featured opportunities: Convivium for Teaching Men at The Heights School (November 13-15, 2025)

Mary Ellen Lundy is the founder and organization pro at An Eco • Organized Approach. Having held a previous career in special education, Mary Ellen is uniquely equipped to support her clients no matter their mindset, lifestyle, or quirks. She is passionate about creating organizational solutions that are sustainable for the long-haul, give back to the local community, and reduce the waste that ends up in landfills. When she's not organizing, Mary Ellen enjoys spending time with her family in Stoughton, Massachusetts.—Episode SummaryIn this episode, Liz Theresa welcomes Mary Ellen Lundy, the dynamic founder behind An Eco Organized Approach—a company that helps homes and businesses declutter while ensuring unwanted items find new life within the local community. Mary Ellen shares how her eco-conscious organizing service goes beyond traditional decluttering by responsibly redistributing, recycling, and repurposing items to benefit others and reduce landfill waste.Download Episode TranscriptKey Topics DiscussedThe Origin Story:Mary Ellen launched her business to solve clutter challenges in her own 1,400-square-foot home with five people. Facing the stress of excess stuff, she was inspired to develop community-based solutions to recycling and donating.Eco-Friendly Decluttering:Unlike many organizers, Mary Ellen prioritizes giving unwanted items a second home—connecting with local schools, shelters, libraries, and art teachers to maximize reuse and support those in need. The business even recycles the unrecyclable, from textiles and shoes to license plates and art supplies.Mental Load & Women Entrepreneurs:The conversation highlights how clutter creates decision fatigue (with Liz noting women make around 36,000 decisions a day!) and how organizing support can relieve mental stress and create space for growth.No Judgment, Only Help:Mary Ellen assures listeners that her services are for everyone—no matter the size of the mess—and that it's always okay to seek help. She also discusses how every home and business accumulates excess, and that decluttering leads to less anxiety and more balance.Sustainable, Personalized Solutions:From binding love letters to recycling textiles and finding new homes for LEGO sets, Mary Ellen provides creative, personalized solutions. She underscores that everything brought into a home has a lifecycle, and her mission is to extend it meaningfully.Impact on Community:An Eco Organized Approach not only helps individuals, but also strengthens the community by supporting underfunded programs and those in need, creating win-win scenarios for both donors and recipients.Notable Quotes“Change is hard, no matter what you're doing in your personal or professional business. It's OK to get help.”“Most people want to do the right thing—they just don't have the time or resources to do it themselves.”“Everything we create has a lifecycle, even physical things, and it's beautiful to think about contributing to that cycle.”Connect with Mary Ellen LundyWebsite: anecoorganizedapproach.comInstagram & Facebook: @anecoorganizedapproachSpecial MentionsWomen's Business League:Liz is sponsoring their annual Summer Soiree (August 21st, Portsmouth, NH). Use code URAVIP for a VIP ticket discount at liztheresa.com/wbl.Free Copywriting Training:Liz offers a free training at freecopyvideo.com.Final ThoughtsIf your stuff is weighing you down, you don't have to tackle it alone. Whether you're facing move-in stress, big life changes, or just need to make space for what matters, Mary Ellen encourages anyone (especially entrepreneurs who carry the weight of a thousand decisions) to embrace help with compassion and without judgment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Live From New York, it's Saturday Night!” That single sentence has become a catchphrase for devotees of comedy and popular culture over the past 50 years—generations of fans who willingly turn their attentions from the height of weekend revelry to the televised antics of Saturday Night Live. Week in, week out for more than two decades, a single photographer has conjured visual magic behind the scenes, creating inventive and irreverent portraits that air for three seconds each as so-called “bumpers” that transition to and from the show's commercial breaks. In this week's podcast, SNL's photographer in residence Mary Ellen Matthews regales us with details about what's undoubtedly the world's best photo gig—a position she's held for 25 years. From the fateful phone call she got in 1993, inviting her to assist the show's founding photographer, Mary Ellen offers candid insights into her journey from mentee to team leader. Along the way, we pull back the curtain on the creation of some iconic images and learn what it takes to be “in the driver's seat [with] a whole busload of very important people to take care of.” “My job is to make this easy and fast,” she notes. “And I don't want anyone to be overthinking anything because they've got enough to worry about with all the sketches and all the pre-tapes and their responsibilities to the rest of the show, which is the most important thing.” Guest: Mary Ellen Matthews   Episode Timeline: 2:58: Living the dream as SNL's resident photographer while being creative under stressful deadline pressure. 4:50: Mary Ellen's early immersion in photography, at the side of her hobbyist father. 7:02: Arriving in NYC, early work for a record label, and the call to assist SNL's founding photographer in residence, Edie Baskin. 12:02: SNL's transition from film to digital, plus the cameras Mary Ellen shoots with today. 15:46: Conceptualizing the weekly portrait shoots and collaborating with subjects. 20:16: Behind-the-scenes of a dicey photo shoot, plus SNL's weekly production timeline. 27:35: Episode Break 28:22: Beyond portraits, the images Mary Ellen shoots as props for SNL sketches—sometimes with a 4x5. 33:20: The scheduling of SNL portrait shoots and getting portrait subjects to have fun. 36:44: Testing for shoots, the atmosphere on-set, and flying by the seat of your pants. 40:15: Communicating with a celebrity's team to get everyone on the same page about shoots and concepts. 42:40: The general workflow of SNL portrait sessions: from shoot preparation to editing and post-production. 45:17: Advice for emerging photographers looking for work or applying for an internship.   Guest Bio: As a top entertainment portrait photographer, Mary Ellen Matthews is specialized in creating iconic images of well-known personalities—from pop stars to sports legends to rock gods. Since 1999, she has been photographer in residence at Saturday Night Live, where she's responsible for creating the distinctive look of the show's still images. Through her exuberant presence that puts subjects at ease, her creative and playful styling on set and intensive fine-tuning in post, Matthews produces unique and recognizable portraits under the manic deadlines of live TV. What's more, in 2010, she began directing SNL's video clips, including the show's opening title sequence. Recent clients include Peacock, Hulu, Netflix, Paramount Pictures, 20th Century Studios, and Prime Video, as well as publications such as Variety, Rolling Stone, Marie Claire, and the Spanish edition of Harper's Bazaar. Most notably, in March 2025, Matthews's first book, The Art of the SNL Portrait, was released to mark the 50th anniversary of this revolution in late night TV.    Stay Connected: Instagram: Saturday Night Live Instagram: Saturday Night Live on YouTube: -------- Host: Derek Fahsbender Senior Creative Producer: Jill Waterman Senior Technical Producer: Mike Weinstein Executive Producer: Richard Stevens