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Woman Propaganda Hayden McDougall Slapped in New York City Our Reaction

Michigan Weather and Women: Part 1 Love, bastards, and what we leave behind. Based on a post by CleverGenericName, in 4 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Connected. The Plumber, The Painter, and the Wind off the Lake Prologue I have never been much for following instructions or doing what I'm told. In eighth grade, we were assigned to make a volcano in science class. I figured that if the eruption looked good with a couple of tablespoons of baking soda, then it would look even better with the whole container! And what better place for a natural disaster than the teacher's desk at the front of the class. I was right; the whole container of baking soda produced an impressive explosion. What I didn't count on, however, was it producing a week-long suspension from school and a beating from my mother. In high school, we had to take an art class to graduate. Our teacher loved still life drawing and would ramble endlessly about how it revealed the beauty that is in the everyday objects that surround us. I guess he wanted us to reveal the beauty in the bowl of fruit that he had put in the middle of the classroom, but the most beautiful things that I could see were Brittany Johnson's D-cups which filled out her sweater gloriously. At the end of the class, there were 29 drawings of a bowl of fruit and one drawing of a beautiful girl's smile (amongst other details). Although I was suspended for two days, I got a date with Brittany who loved my drawing, so I feel like I came out ahead on that one. In my last year of school, the final mathematics exam asked the following question: Determine the points of intersection between the following parabolas and lines. Illustrate fully. While the other students slaved away to solve the listed problems in the allotted time, I fully illustrated a drawing of our math teacher, Mr. Aaronson, dancing a slow waltz in a field of sunflowers with Mrs. Stevens, the geography teacher. It was the worst-kept secret in the school that our two shyest teachers had massive crushes on each other, and after four years of watching them pine away, I thought they could use a little push. I failed the test, but Mr. Aaronson showed my drawing to Mrs. Stevens during a particularly dull staff meeting, and when it made her blush and smile, he finally got up the courage to ask her out. They are now married and have a little girl who is as cute as a button. At the end of the year, Mr. Aaronson asked me if I planned to pursue math in the future, and when I assured him that I did not, he gave me a passing grade. So, what was my problem, you might ask? Was I just one of those kids who didn't give a shit and was destined for mediocrity or failure in life? Like many things, the answer is more complicated than it might first appear, but I am getting ahead of myself. Our story starts on an unusually cold and blustery afternoon in late October, on the north-eastern shore of Lake Michigan about a half hour's drive north of Petoskey, just outside a village called Good Hart. Chapter 1. It had been a busy day. The perfect storm of an early season snap freeze, strong winds, and lake-effect snow meant that there was a couple of inches of snow on the still soggy ground, along with a number of leaky or burst pipes, malfunctioning valves, and boiler issues as people cranked their heating systems up to full for the first time that year. As a plumber, though, I didn't mind. It just meant more work for me, which was always a good thing. At only 25 years of age, and despite being a master plumber, I was generally the last choice for folks to call, even in an emergency. Anyone with money chose one of the larger and more established plumbing contractors, leaving me with the jobs that they didn't feel were worth their time or effort. That's how I found myself pulling into the laneway of an older house, just off Lamkin Road down by the lake, late that Friday afternoon. It was my last job of the day, but I would be working over the weekend to catch up on my backlog, so I wanted to get it done. The house looked like it hadn't been updated since it was built, likely in the late fifties or early sixties, other than a couple of coats of paint and a new roof when the original finally gave up the ghost. The front gardens were neatly tended, however, and the property itself was stunning, with panoramic views in three directions out over the lake. The sun was just beginning to dip toward the western horizon as I drove up, so the trees cast long shadows across the laneway. The house was owned by Mrs. Wilma C. Anderson, who had called me earlier in the day to say that some of her radiators weren't working and that her boiler was making one hell of a racket when she turned it on. I told her to shut the system down and that I would look at it by the end of the day. She sounded quite elderly, and I didn't like the idea of her going without heat for a night during a cold snap. I rang the doorbell and waited until a tiny wisp of a woman answered. She couldn't have been more than five feet tall and looked older than the hills, but her face was full of life, and her eyes had a twinkle that spoke of humor and mischief. "Hi, Mrs. Anderson, I'm Davis Crawford. You called earlier about some issues with your boiler and heating system. How can I help?" Mrs. Anderson gave me an appraising look. "I wasn't expecting you to be such a handsome young man. If I were fifty years younger, I would tell you exactly how you could help me, and then I'd teach you a trick or two I learned over the years. But I am too old for that kind of foolishness these days, so I will just have to make use of your plumbing expertise instead. And please, call me Wilma." I couldn't help but laugh and blush at Wilma's surprisingly raunchy sense of humor. I liked her immediately. "Let's try that again. What seems to be the problem?" "Well, the biggest problem is that I am 91 years old and dying of cancer. The doctors give me less than a year to live. But aside from that, I really can't complain. I have had a good run of it." I cocked my head to one side and gave her a bemused look. "Oh, you were wondering what the problem is with my heating system. Well, I turned it on this morning when I got up, and the boiler sounded like there was someone trapped inside of it trying to hammer their way out. There was a worrisome hissing from some of the radiators, as well, and they weren't heating up worth a damn. "My husband, Phillip, used to take care of those things for us, but he has been gone for almost five years now, so I hate to think what you will find when you look around." "I'm sure I can help you, Mrs. Anderson,;" "Wilma, please." "Sorry, Wilma. Why don't you show me to the basement, and I will try to figure out what's wrong. Then I can get started on fixing it." On the way to the basement stairs, Wilma led me through her crowded but orderly living room. I couldn't help but notice the paintings on just about every surface of its walls. "You have a real eye for art, Wilma. Those paintings are beautiful." Wilma smiled wistfully at me and got a faraway look in her eyes as she replied. "Phillip and I were artists. I guess I still am, but I haven't felt much like painting since he passed on. Phillip painted portraits. He made a surprisingly good living at it; you would be amazed at what rich people will pay to see their lives immortalized in oil on canvas. I never had the knack. Phillip could make even the most corpulent and corrupt industrialist appear regal and wise. I could only ever capture what I actually saw in them, and I quickly discovered that they did not enjoy, or pay for, that kind of introspection. "So, I painted landscapes, and there is always a market for those. But I kept some of my favorite pieces, over the years, as you can see." As Wilma spoke, I took a closer look at the paintings. One, in particular, was striking; a portrait of a beautiful young woman, in her late teens or early twenties, with a stethoscope around her neck and her blonde hair pulled back into a tight ponytail. She was wearing a loose hoodie and was curled up in an Adirondack chair, reading a book. It was not what you would expect from a formal portrait, but it seemed to capture her essence in a way that no photograph could match. I must have stopped moving as I was drawn into the image, so Wilma gave me a minute before she continued. "That's the last painting that Phillip worked on before he passed. He didn't get the chance to finish it, but I still think it's his finest work." I couldn't help but agree. "Who's the model? She's beautiful." "That's my granddaughter, Erin. You can't tell from the portrait, but she's a real firecracker. As a grandparent, you're not supposed to play favorites, but she was very special to Phillip, and it hit her hard when he passed. There is more love in that one painting than in all the other portraits that he painted over his lifetime. Except for his first, of course, of me." "Where are Phillips' other works? Surely, they weren't all commissions that are now locked away in some dusty millionaire's palace." Wilma's expression turned bleak as she contemplated her response. "All of his other paintings were sold after he died. The kids said they would fetch a better price while there was an upswing of interest in his work after his death, so they insisted that they all go to auction as quickly as possible. They were probably right, I guess, although I loved his art more than I needed the money. But how do you argue with your kids when they have just lost their father?" "Do any of your children live nearby?" "They all moved far away. Phillip and I chose a wonderful spot to live and make our art, but a challenging place to raise a family. It's not so bad now, what with the internet, highways, and the like, but when we first moved here sixty-some years ago, it was very isolated. We were young and selfish, and our selfishness cost us dearly. "We thought that our children would grow to love this area over time, like we did. But they never did, and they left as soon as they could get away. My daughter, Samantha, is a retired lawyer and she and her third husband split their time between their loft in Manhattan and their beach house in the Bahamas. My son, Robert, is an oil executive down in Texas. Neither of them has been here in more than a decade, except for Phillip's funeral. "My baby, Max, passed away more than twenty years ago now of cancer. Erin is his granddaughter. She is a pediatrician, and she splits her time between the hospital in Petoskey and the children's hospital down in Grand Rapids. She comes to see me when she can, but she is very busy. My other relatives all live busy lives far away from here. We chose to live here, though, so I can't be too upset that the rest of the family chose to live far away. "But enough about me. What about you, Mr. Crawford? Do you have any children?" "It's just me and my siblings, I'm afraid, and it's been that way for quite some time. My oldest sister, Alison, is 20, and she goes to college at North Central Michigan, in Petoskey. She is planning to become a nurse practitioner. The rest of the gang still lives at home with me. Sharon is 17 now, so she kind of runs the show while I am working; Mary is 15 but going on 30, if you know what I mean; and Lane is the baby of the family at 12." "Where are your parents?" "I don't honestly know. We each have a different father, or at least we think we do. Sharon, Lane, and I have no idea who our fathers are, so there's a chance that we might be full siblings, but I doubt it. My mother never kept the same man around for long. Alison's father has been in and out of jail since before she was born and is currently serving a stint in federal prison. But Mary has it the worst of all of us. "My mother met Mary's dad on a weekend bender in Vegas, and he is a pretty big deal. Rich, famous, the kind of guy you see on TV and the cover of magazines. A real family man, except when it comes to Mary, whom he refuses to even acknowledge. He bought my mom's silence with a lump sum payment and a non-disclosure agreement. That money was supposed to be put in a trust for Mary, but my mom snorted and injected it all in less than a year. Mary has written to her father dozens of times and reached out to him on social media countless more, but he wants nothing to do with his bastard daughter. "As for my mom, she went away for the weekend almost seven years ago now and left me in charge. And I am still in charge, I guess. So, no time for dating or romance for me, and I think that I will be just about done with raising kids by the time that Lane goes off to college." Wilma gave me a look filled with more empathy than I had felt in a long time, maybe ever. "Anyway, I should take a look at your boiler and see what I can do about getting you some heat." I would have called the boiler in Wilma's basement old, but that wouldn't have done it justice. Frankly, it wouldn't have seemed out of place in a museum of heating and plumbing, and it was hanging on to life by the barest of threads. With only a year to live, however, I wasn't going to recommend to Wilma that she replace the whole system with something more modern and efficient. "I think I can fix your boiler so that it will hold on for another year or two, and I can patch a couple of leaks in the lines to the main radiators as well. One line to a radiator at the back of the house is completely shot, so I will shut that one off and be back to replace it later this week." "What's all that going to cost?" "It's free of charge, Ma'am. You've got enough to look after with your health and all, without having to worry about your heating system. I never had a grandma to spoil, at least not one that I know of, so it would be my pleasure to do this for you." "Please, it's Wilma. And it's a grandmother's prerogative to spoil her grandchildren, and not the other way around. But your kindness is mighty appreciated, Davis." It took me a couple of hours to shore up the boiler and repair the lines that were still in reasonable condition before I was finished for the day. As I got ready to leave, I found Wilma sitting alone in the living room reading an old paperback. "I'll call you later this week, once the replacement line for your radiator comes in." Wilma got a mischievous smile on her face. "Why, Davis, are you getting fresh with me?" "If I were older and more experienced, I would in an instant. But I hardly think I can compete with the memory of your Phillip." "Too true, too true. Alright young man, well thank you for taking the time to look after a foolish old woman on a cold October night." "I hardly think you're foolish, Wilma, but it's been my pleasure." I didn't get home from Wilma's until well after nine that night, and by the time I pulled into our gravel driveway, I was beat. The dilapidated old yard light mounted on the roof of the garage shone weakly down on the sloppy mix of gravel and mud that was our yard, and I could hear the excited barks of Munchkin, our rescue puppy. He was a mix of German Shepherd and Cane Corso, with some variety of northern dog thrown in, and he was mighty pleased to see me. I'm glad that someone was. I came into our small three-bedroom rental to find Sharon and Lane sitting at the dining room table working on his math homework. I wish that they reacted like Munchkin when they saw me, but Lane just grunted a hello, while Sharon looked up at me with a mixture of sadness and worry. "Mary is out with the McDougal brothers again. They showed up here a half hour ago, I told her not to go with them, but she wouldn't listen." "The McDougal brothers are assholes," was Lane's addition to the conversation, without even looking up from the table. He wasn't wrong. The oldest McDougall brother, Calum, was a couple of years ahead of me at school and was a bully and a braggart. Two of his three brothers had followed in his esteemed footsteps, while the jury was still out on the youngest, James. "I'm going to go get her. Next time that those boys turn up in our yard, let Munchkin lose on them." "Alright, dinner will be in the oven when you get back. Given 'em hell, Bro." The McDougal brothers lived just outside Pellston in the closest thing to a mansion that you could find in our neck of the woods. Their family owned the largest construction and maintenance company in the area and had most of the Public Works contracts sown up, along with a not inconsiderable portion of the private construction in our region as well. Their parents spent most of their time in Sarasota, Florida, though, and the brothers had free rein while they were gone. As I drove up their long, paved driveway, automatic floodlights came on, illuminating the ostentatious columns that flanked the entrance to their house. I parked in front of the nearest bay of their four-car attached garage while noting that there was another three-car garage further off to the right. I idly wondered who got to park in which garage. Rich people problems, I guess. I walked to the front door and let myself in. From the foyer, I could hear the loud thump of music coming from the back of the house, so I headed that way. As I passed through the kitchen, I nearly bumped into James, who was holding a couple of empty serving bowls. He stopped dead when he saw me, looking nervous, clearly not expecting anyone else to be in their house. Certainly not me, anyway. "Hey James, I am here to get my sister. Where is she?" He hesitated a moment before pointing toward the back of the house. "She's in the game room playing pool with the guys. We didn't force her to come here or anything, if that's what you're worried about." "Maybe that's true, James. But you know she is still a minor, and I am her guardian, so I'm going to fetch her and bring her home." James didn't like the sound of that, but I turned my back on him and followed the music to a large, sunken room at the back of the house, which had an expensive-looking pool table in the middle. The remaining McDougal brothers were either playing pool or smoking up on one of the couches that were scattered around the outside of the room. Calum was presiding over the festivities, while the Pistons game was playing on a wall-mounted TV that was bigger than some movie screens. Despite his family's blue-collar roots, Calum looked like an overgrown frat boy, with his preppy clothes and fifty-dollar haircut. Mary was sitting in the middle of one of the couches, with a McDougal brother on one side and one of their hangers-on on the other. She looked somewhere between uncomfortable and scared, but she gave me a defiant scowl. The music stopped, and everyone looked to Calum and then back at me. There was a nervous tension in the air. "Hi Calum, I'm here for my sister." Calum was now in a bit of a spot; he couldn't just let me come into his home and give him orders without losing face with his brothers and their cronies. But he also knew, or at least suspected, that my sister was underage. And then there was always the Pipe Wrench Incident. That always made people nervous to be around me. "That's not my problem. She told my brother that she wanted to party, so she's here to party. No one forced her to come, and she seems to be having a good time." I wondered if all of Calum's dates looked as scared and uncomfortable as Mary did at that moment when they were having a 'good time'. "Well, since she is still a minor and I'm her guardian, it's a bit of a problem. Or it could be. But I don't want to put a damper on your evening, so I'll just bring Mary home with me and we'll call it a night." Calum looked toward James who had just come back into the room with bowls now filled with potato chips. "Is that true, Limp dick? Did you bring an underage girl home to party with us?" James began to sputter before Calum shook his head in disgust. He pointed over at Mary. "Get the fuck out of here, and don't come back until you're sixteen," he said before turning back to me. "And you. Just get the fuck out of our house." It was a silent drive home. Mary refused to even look at me, staring out the window instead. When we pulled into our yard, Munchkin came running up to greet us, and Mary finally spoke. "You didn't need to embarrass me like that. I'm old enough to make my own choices, you know." "The law says you're still a minor. And you'll always be my sister. Those guys are no good, Mary. You know that." "James is different. He isn't like the rest of them." "Maybe that's true, or maybe not. But you don't hang out in a nest of rattlesnakes, just because there is a garter snake in there with them that you think is cute." After a pause and some continued barking from Munchkin, Mary finally looked over at me. "You're not my dad, you know. You can't tell me what to do." And there it was. It always came down to the same thing with Mary; her father's rejection of her. Over the years, it had undermined her self-esteem and destroyed her self-worth to the point where I wondered if they would ever recover. Unfortunately, I was just smart enough to see the problem, but I had no idea how to fix it. A brother's love can only go so far, I guess. "I know, Mary. I know. But I love you, and I am so proud of you, and I just wish that was enough." We sat in silence for another minute before she replied. "I wish it was too." Chapter 2. It took a couple of days for Mrs. Anderson's new radiator line to arrive, and I gave her a call when I went to pick it up. "Hi, Mrs. And; Wilma. I was just picking up the replacement line for your radiator, and I was wondering if you needed anything else from town, while I'm here. I was going to come by and install the line later this afternoon if that works for you." "That's very kind of you, Davis. Would you mind picking up a few groceries for me? I can send the store a list, so they will be ready for you when you get there." A couple of my calls that day took longer than expected, so it was late in the afternoon again by the time I made it to Wilma's place. The early season snow had mostly melted away, and her yard was now a combination of gravel and thick soupy mud that could swallow a tire as easily as it could swallow a boot. "Thank you for picking the groceries up for me, you're too kind." "It was no trouble at all, especially since I was coming out this way anyway. If you don't mind me asking, how do you usually get them?" "I used to have a young man up the way who would help me with groceries and yard work, and other small things, but now I am pretty much on my own." "What happened to him? Did he move away?" "No, he still lives in the same place that he always has, but I am pretty sure that my family paid him more not to help me than I was paying for his assistance." "What? That seems like a crappy thing for them to do to you." Wilma gave a resigned sigh and then offered me a coffee while she told me her story. "I think I told you the last time you were here, that most of my family has moved on from this place, except my granddaughter Erin. The rest of them already have an agreement in place with a developer, the McDougals, to turn this property into a high-end resort for the Fudgies, so they have someplace to spend their money after visiting Mackinac Island." "Fudgies," was what the locals called the tourists from down south who descended on the upper peninsula in the summer. "If you don't mind me asking, just how much land do you own?" "Well, Phillip and I didn't have much to spend our money on over the years, so we bought up many of the nearby properties when they went up for sale. We ended up with at least a quarter mile of land that fronts onto the lake, without even really trying." I let out a low whistle. "That must be worth a small fortune. I can understand your family's interest." "At first, they didn't care if I stayed in the house after Phillip died. They figured that I would follow soon enough. After a few years, however, they started to get impatient, and it's fair to say that they are now actively encouraging me to leave, by foot, by car, or in a box. They have generously offered to put me out to pasture in a warehouse for the old and infirm, though, to await my impending doom. "With my cancer, their wish is finally going to come true. By this time next year, I will be sipping coffee with Phillip in whatever afterlife we atheists get to enjoy. Actually, who am I kidding? If there is an afterlife for Phillip and me, the first thing I'm going to do when I get there is get on my knees, undo his belt buckle, and then show him just how much I've missed him these past five years. Wilma looked a bit startled as if she had just remembered that I was still there. "I'm sorry, Davis. You probably didn't need to hear that last part. I just miss him so much. I still see him in the trees and along the shore, and I sometimes hear his voice in the wind off the lake." "It's all good, Wilma. I just hope that my brother and sisters get to experience the kind of love that you and Phillip had someday." "What about you, Davis? Don't you deserve to experience that kind of love as well?" "Maybe I deserve it, Wilma, but I don't think I am going to find it. It's been tough; real tough, looking after my family all these years. I have done things that I am not proud of, but that needed to be done. I don't regret them; I would do anything to protect the people I love. But I doubt that anyone would be able to love me, once they found out what I've done." "I think you are selling yourself short, Davis. We are all artists, and we are all worthy of love." With that, Wilma offered to top up my coffee before I started replacing the broken line. As the evening's shadows deepened, I saw her watching me with compassion and concern in her eyes. Once I was finished, I felt her hand on my shoulder, and she gave it an empathetic squeeze. "A penny for your thoughts?" I stopped what I was doing and turned to look at her. "It's my sister, Mary. I am losing her. She is so hurt and angry that she is beginning to make bad choices, and I don't know how to help her. I've tried to be her brother, parent, and friend, but I'm failing at all three." Wilma offered no judgment, good or bad. She just listened, and when I finished, she spoke. "Bring her over this Sunday around noon. Tell her to wear some old clothes that she doesn't mind getting dirty. You can come too if you would like and bring your little brother to do some fishing, but Mary will be spending her time with me." It wasn't easy convincing Mary to come to Wilma's. If you have spent time dealing with teenage girls, you know that they can be as stubborn as late-season ice on the lake. In the end, I resorted to threats and bribery to get her onboard, but she assured me that she would hate every minute she was there. Lane came with us as well, with the promise that we could spend the afternoon fishing off the end of Wilma's dock. By the time we arrived, Mary was sullenly glued to the passenger seat and wouldn't look up from her phone. Wilma waited a few minutes for Mary, but she stubbornly refused to leave the truck. Eventually, Wilma pulled on her rubber boots and walked over to the truck. She looked up at Mary and started speaking. "There are three things that I know are true. "The first, I've already shared with your brother. We are all artists because we are all worthy of love. But many of us lose our way. We are hurt and abandoned, and we are buried in shame. I was like that for many years. But my husband, Phillip, found me and taught me what it is to be loved. Not just the physical act; although he taught me about that as well; but the certainty that I was seen, known, and cherished. He showed me that I am an artist. You are an artist too. "Second, I am old, I have cancer, and I will die. Not today, and hopefully not tomorrow, but soon. And that is okay; we all die. I have lived a good life. And when I do, I hope that Phillip will be waiting for me with a glass of chilled white wine and his beautiful smile. My art may linger for a while once I am gone but, eventually, it too will be lost. "Third, the world is full of bastards. Your brother tells me that you and he are both bastards. I will tell you a secret that I have shared with very few people; I am a bastard too. "My mother was beautiful but poor. Her parents lost everything during the Great Depression, and she worked as a housemaid for a rich and powerful man to support her family. When she fell pregnant, he put her out on the street and refused to recognize her child, his daughter; me. Because of his rejection, I spent too many years steeped in shame and self-loathing. But eventually, I learned a hard truth; my father was a bastard by choice, while I was a bastard by birth. And those of us who are bastards by birth must never let the bastards by choice win. "Come inside when you're ready. I'm too old and it's too cold for me to stand here waiting for you." With that, Wilma turned and slowly made her way back to the house. Surprisingly, after a minute, Mary followed. When they reached the door, Wilma turned to look back at me. "It's time for you boys to go fishing. There is a warm breeze off the lake that will bring you good luck." Lane and I made our way down the hill to the dock in silence, our fishing rods, ice chest, and tackle box in hand. Unlike a seasonal dock that would be taken out of the lake each fall, Wilma's dock could be used year-round and was built with heavy timbers and steel bracing, so it could withstand the crushing force of the winter's ice. When we reached the dock, we felt the warm wind that Wilma had promised, and we chose our lures and began to cast. After a half hour of fishing, Lane broke the silence. "Do you think it's my fault?" "Do I think what's your fault, Bud?" "That mom left us. That she never came back. Do you think it's my fault?" I sighed as I thought about my answer. "No. It's not your fault. It's no one's fault, really, maybe not even hers. It's funny though, she brought some amazing people into this world. I wish she could have seen how incredible you and your sisters have turned out. But she made her choice, and that's on her, not you." Lane thought about my answer before he continued. "But you would be better off without me. Sharon would have more time to study for the scholarship she will need to get away from here. I try to be nice to Mary, to make her feel better, but I just seem to make things worse for her as well. And I see how hard you work to keep our family together. I feel like you would all be better off without me. If I weren't here, maybe Mom would come back home." I took a deep breath and tried to push down the anger that threatened to overwhelm me; anger at my mother for abandoning us, anger at myself for never being enough, and anger at a world that would leave my brother feeling like it would be better off if he didn't exist. I felt the wind off the lake as it blew across my face, drying my unshed tears before they were formed. As I was wondering how to unbreak my brother's heart, a particularly strong gust of wind blew through and Lane's fishing rod bent into a deep arc, the tip dancing wildly as a fish fought against the line. "Dad! Help;" The drag clicked furiously as the fish pulled line, as Lane fought to keep his rod tip up. I quickly set my rod aside and braced him, my hands held loosely beside his as he fought to reel in his catch. We worked together for what seemed like an eternity before he finally fought his fish to the side of the dock. I grabbed the net and saw that he had hooked a steelhead trout that was easily two feet long and must have weighed at least eight pounds if not more. It was a wonder the drag held steady, and his line didn't break during the fight. As I scooped up his catch, the steelhead's silver sides shimmered like polished chrome in the fading light, and it was so big that it took up over half the ice chest I had brought along to store our catch. Lane was flushed with excitement at landing such an impressive fish, and I was so proud of him that my heart almost ached. "Nice work, Son." He just looked up at me for a moment before throwing his arms around me in a hug. In the time since our mother left, he had never called me by anything other than my name. I never tried to be his dad; I didn't think I was qualified, but I guess that all of us need someone in our lives who will love us without conditions or end. "Never think that you're a burden on me or the family. Maybe you need a bit more from us right now than you can give back, but that's alright. Because sixty years from now, when I am old and can't wipe my ass anymore, you are going to be paying me back in spades, alright?" With that, we went back to fishing in companionable silence. I pulled in a few smaller ones, but nothing to match Lane's steelhead. A few hours later, the wind had picked up and it was getting colder, so we packed up our equipment and made our way back toward the house. Halfway down the dock, however, a huge gust of wind swept through, and I heard a cry followed by a loud splash. Turning back, I saw that Lane's foot had slipped through a broken slat, and he had fallen off the dock. Without thinking, I dropped the ice box and rods and jumped into the water to help him. When I got him to shore, he couldn't put any weight on his ankle, and any efforts to do so were met with cries of pain. I quickly collected our discarded fishing gear and set it to one side, before helping him to slowly make his way back up the hill. The November chill quickly took hold of us as we walked, plastering our damp clothing to our skin, and we were shivering uncontrollably by the time we reached the house. I knocked but it took a minute for Wilma and Mary to come out from the studio at the back of the house. "I am sorry to cut things short, but Lane had an accident down at the dock and he sprained or maybe even broke his ankle. I am going to have to take him to the hospital in Petoskey to get it looked at before it swells up any further." Wilma looked at me with concern. "Maybe you should hold off at least for a little while. My granddaughter, Erin, the pediatrician, is coming for dinner tonight and should be here any minute. Why don't we let her take a look at it before you head into town? And let's get you out of those clothes; you must be freezing. I still have some of Phillip's things in the closet that might fit you." A few minutes later, I had changed into a pair of comfortable but slightly musty-smelling pants, with a warm sweater over a well-worn collared shirt. I was both taller and wider than Phillip had been, at least in the twilight of his years, so the pants were a bit short, while the sweater was tight across my shoulders. While I changed, Mary and Wilma had set Lane up on the couch with his ankle elevated on some pillows. I helped him change out of his wet clothing and into an old sweatshirt and shorts that fit over his swollen ankle. Once Lane was settled, Wilma and I talked quietly in the kitchen. "It's getting late, and you must be getting hungry, but I don't think I have enough to feed everyone." I thought for a moment. "We may be in luck. Lane caught the biggest steelhead I have ever seen earlier this afternoon, but I left it down by the dock after the accident. If you have a few potatoes and maybe a veg or two, I am sure I can whip something up that would feed us all." Wilma looked at me with a sly smile. "He cooks, he plumbs, and he cares for his family, all while cutting a dashing figure in my late husband's favorite sweater. You, Mr. Crawford, are a catch." "I am not sure about that, Wilma," I replied with a laugh, "But either way, this catch had better go and get our earlier catch, so I can get started on dinner." It took me almost half an hour to collect our fishing gear and bring it back up to the truck. By the time I was done, an older SUV was parked behind my truck, which meant that Erin had arrived. After I loaded the gear, I used the fishing knife and stained plastic cutting board that I kept in a bin under the back seat to clean and filet the steelhead before heading inside. From the doorway, I could see a head of sandy-blonde hair pulled back into a loose ponytail sticking up from the far side of the couch, and I heard a calm and melodic voice talking to Lane while Wilma and Mary looked on. I was so lost in that voice that I almost jumped when the latch on the door caught behind me. The head of sandy-blonde hair looked up at the sound, revealing a pair of amber, almost golden eyes. "You must be the father," said that same melodic voice, as those eyes bore their way into my soul. "It's Davis Crawford, and I'm the older brother." "Erin Anderson, nice to meet you. Can you get hold of your parents? We might need to take Lane to the hospital for some X-rays." "No," I replied more harshly than I intended. "No," I tried again, more gently but with an edge to my voice. "Our parents aren't around; I am as close as you're going to get. I am Lane's legal guardian if that helps." There was a slight pause as her amber eyes shifted from surprise to curiosity. "That helps a lot. Why don't you give me 15 minutes or so to take a look at this brave dude's ankle, then we can talk over some options, once I have a better sense of what's going on." "That okay with you, Bud?" I asked as I walked over to the couch. "Yeah, that should be fine," he replied, but his eyes were wide, and his cheeks were flushed. For a moment, I was worried that he might be running a fever, but then I got my first look at Erin, and I understood. Maybe she wasn't classically beautiful like a movie star or swimsuit model, but she was lean and fit, and from what I could see, had more than enough curves in all the right places. It was her face, however, that captured me. She had delicate features accentuated by her high cheekbones, and there was a softness to her expression that spoke of empathy and kindness. Her eyes, though intense, had a warmth that put me instantly at ease. I realized much too late that I had been staring at Erin for an uncomfortably long time while holding the bag of steelhead filets out like some kind of sacrificial offering. While I stood frozen, the look in Erin's beautiful eyes had shifted from curiosity to amusement; I would assume at the fish-carrying simpleton standing in front of her. "Thanks, Dr. Anderson; err, Erin. I appreciate your taking a look at him and; I am going to go cook us up some fish before I make an even bigger ass of myself." Wilma joined me in the kitchen, while Erin continued to assess Lane's injured ankle. We spent the next few minutes dicing the potatoes and veggies and tossing them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper before sprinkling the filets of steelhead with a mixture of herbs. I topped the fish with some slices of a less-than-fresh, but still edible, lemon I found in the fridge, before putting the whole thing in the oven. To be continued in part 2. Based on a post by CleverGenericName, in 4 parts, for Literotica.

Michigan Weather and Women: Part 1 Love, bastards, and what we leave behind. Based on a post by CleverGenericName, in 4 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Connected. The Plumber, The Painter, and the Wind off the Lake Prologue I have never been much for following instructions or doing what I'm told. In eighth grade, we were assigned to make a volcano in science class. I figured that if the eruption looked good with a couple of tablespoons of baking soda, then it would look even better with the whole container! And what better place for a natural disaster than the teacher's desk at the front of the class. I was right; the whole container of baking soda produced an impressive explosion. What I didn't count on, however, was it producing a week-long suspension from school and a beating from my mother. In high school, we had to take an art class to graduate. Our teacher loved still life drawing and would ramble endlessly about how it revealed the beauty that is in the everyday objects that surround us. I guess he wanted us to reveal the beauty in the bowl of fruit that he had put in the middle of the classroom, but the most beautiful things that I could see were Brittany Johnson's D-cups which filled out her sweater gloriously. At the end of the class, there were 29 drawings of a bowl of fruit and one drawing of a beautiful girl's smile (amongst other details). Although I was suspended for two days, I got a date with Brittany who loved my drawing, so I feel like I came out ahead on that one. In my last year of school, the final mathematics exam asked the following question: Determine the points of intersection between the following parabolas and lines. Illustrate fully. While the other students slaved away to solve the listed problems in the allotted time, I fully illustrated a drawing of our math teacher, Mr. Aaronson, dancing a slow waltz in a field of sunflowers with Mrs. Stevens, the geography teacher. It was the worst-kept secret in the school that our two shyest teachers had massive crushes on each other, and after four years of watching them pine away, I thought they could use a little push. I failed the test, but Mr. Aaronson showed my drawing to Mrs. Stevens during a particularly dull staff meeting, and when it made her blush and smile, he finally got up the courage to ask her out. They are now married and have a little girl who is as cute as a button. At the end of the year, Mr. Aaronson asked me if I planned to pursue math in the future, and when I assured him that I did not, he gave me a passing grade. So, what was my problem, you might ask? Was I just one of those kids who didn't give a shit and was destined for mediocrity or failure in life? Like many things, the answer is more complicated than it might first appear, but I am getting ahead of myself. Our story starts on an unusually cold and blustery afternoon in late October, on the north-eastern shore of Lake Michigan about a half hour's drive north of Petoskey, just outside a village called Good Hart. Chapter 1. It had been a busy day. The perfect storm of an early season snap freeze, strong winds, and lake-effect snow meant that there was a couple of inches of snow on the still soggy ground, along with a number of leaky or burst pipes, malfunctioning valves, and boiler issues as people cranked their heating systems up to full for the first time that year. As a plumber, though, I didn't mind. It just meant more work for me, which was always a good thing. At only 25 years of age, and despite being a master plumber, I was generally the last choice for folks to call, even in an emergency. Anyone with money chose one of the larger and more established plumbing contractors, leaving me with the jobs that they didn't feel were worth their time or effort. That's how I found myself pulling into the laneway of an older house, just off Lamkin Road down by the lake, late that Friday afternoon. It was my last job of the day, but I would be working over the weekend to catch up on my backlog, so I wanted to get it done. The house looked like it hadn't been updated since it was built, likely in the late fifties or early sixties, other than a couple of coats of paint and a new roof when the original finally gave up the ghost. The front gardens were neatly tended, however, and the property itself was stunning, with panoramic views in three directions out over the lake. The sun was just beginning to dip toward the western horizon as I drove up, so the trees cast long shadows across the laneway. The house was owned by Mrs. Wilma C. Anderson, who had called me earlier in the day to say that some of her radiators weren't working and that her boiler was making one hell of a racket when she turned it on. I told her to shut the system down and that I would look at it by the end of the day. She sounded quite elderly, and I didn't like the idea of her going without heat for a night during a cold snap. I rang the doorbell and waited until a tiny wisp of a woman answered. She couldn't have been more than five feet tall and looked older than the hills, but her face was full of life, and her eyes had a twinkle that spoke of humor and mischief. "Hi, Mrs. Anderson, I'm Davis Crawford. You called earlier about some issues with your boiler and heating system. How can I help?" Mrs. Anderson gave me an appraising look. "I wasn't expecting you to be such a handsome young man. If I were fifty years younger, I would tell you exactly how you could help me, and then I'd teach you a trick or two I learned over the years. But I am too old for that kind of foolishness these days, so I will just have to make use of your plumbing expertise instead. And please, call me Wilma." I couldn't help but laugh and blush at Wilma's surprisingly raunchy sense of humor. I liked her immediately. "Let's try that again. What seems to be the problem?" "Well, the biggest problem is that I am 91 years old and dying of cancer. The doctors give me less than a year to live. But aside from that, I really can't complain. I have had a good run of it." I cocked my head to one side and gave her a bemused look. "Oh, you were wondering what the problem is with my heating system. Well, I turned it on this morning when I got up, and the boiler sounded like there was someone trapped inside of it trying to hammer their way out. There was a worrisome hissing from some of the radiators, as well, and they weren't heating up worth a damn. "My husband, Phillip, used to take care of those things for us, but he has been gone for almost five years now, so I hate to think what you will find when you look around." "I'm sure I can help you, Mrs. Anderson,;" "Wilma, please." "Sorry, Wilma. Why don't you show me to the basement, and I will try to figure out what's wrong. Then I can get started on fixing it." On the way to the basement stairs, Wilma led me through her crowded but orderly living room. I couldn't help but notice the paintings on just about every surface of its walls. "You have a real eye for art, Wilma. Those paintings are beautiful." Wilma smiled wistfully at me and got a faraway look in her eyes as she replied. "Phillip and I were artists. I guess I still am, but I haven't felt much like painting since he passed on. Phillip painted portraits. He made a surprisingly good living at it; you would be amazed at what rich people will pay to see their lives immortalized in oil on canvas. I never had the knack. Phillip could make even the most corpulent and corrupt industrialist appear regal and wise. I could only ever capture what I actually saw in them, and I quickly discovered that they did not enjoy, or pay for, that kind of introspection. "So, I painted landscapes, and there is always a market for those. But I kept some of my favorite pieces, over the years, as you can see." As Wilma spoke, I took a closer look at the paintings. One, in particular, was striking; a portrait of a beautiful young woman, in her late teens or early twenties, with a stethoscope around her neck and her blonde hair pulled back into a tight ponytail. She was wearing a loose hoodie and was curled up in an Adirondack chair, reading a book. It was not what you would expect from a formal portrait, but it seemed to capture her essence in a way that no photograph could match. I must have stopped moving as I was drawn into the image, so Wilma gave me a minute before she continued. "That's the last painting that Phillip worked on before he passed. He didn't get the chance to finish it, but I still think it's his finest work." I couldn't help but agree. "Who's the model? She's beautiful." "That's my granddaughter, Erin. You can't tell from the portrait, but she's a real firecracker. As a grandparent, you're not supposed to play favorites, but she was very special to Phillip, and it hit her hard when he passed. There is more love in that one painting than in all the other portraits that he painted over his lifetime. Except for his first, of course, of me." "Where are Phillips' other works? Surely, they weren't all commissions that are now locked away in some dusty millionaire's palace." Wilma's expression turned bleak as she contemplated her response. "All of his other paintings were sold after he died. The kids said they would fetch a better price while there was an upswing of interest in his work after his death, so they insisted that they all go to auction as quickly as possible. They were probably right, I guess, although I loved his art more than I needed the money. But how do you argue with your kids when they have just lost their father?" "Do any of your children live nearby?" "They all moved far away. Phillip and I chose a wonderful spot to live and make our art, but a challenging place to raise a family. It's not so bad now, what with the internet, highways, and the like, but when we first moved here sixty-some years ago, it was very isolated. We were young and selfish, and our selfishness cost us dearly. "We thought that our children would grow to love this area over time, like we did. But they never did, and they left as soon as they could get away. My daughter, Samantha, is a retired lawyer and she and her third husband split their time between their loft in Manhattan and their beach house in the Bahamas. My son, Robert, is an oil executive down in Texas. Neither of them has been here in more than a decade, except for Phillip's funeral. "My baby, Max, passed away more than twenty years ago now of cancer. Erin is his granddaughter. She is a pediatrician, and she splits her time between the hospital in Petoskey and the children's hospital down in Grand Rapids. She comes to see me when she can, but she is very busy. My other relatives all live busy lives far away from here. We chose to live here, though, so I can't be too upset that the rest of the family chose to live far away. "But enough about me. What about you, Mr. Crawford? Do you have any children?" "It's just me and my siblings, I'm afraid, and it's been that way for quite some time. My oldest sister, Alison, is 20, and she goes to college at North Central Michigan, in Petoskey. She is planning to become a nurse practitioner. The rest of the gang still lives at home with me. Sharon is 17 now, so she kind of runs the show while I am working; Mary is 15 but going on 30, if you know what I mean; and Lane is the baby of the family at 12." "Where are your parents?" "I don't honestly know. We each have a different father, or at least we think we do. Sharon, Lane, and I have no idea who our fathers are, so there's a chance that we might be full siblings, but I doubt it. My mother never kept the same man around for long. Alison's father has been in and out of jail since before she was born and is currently serving a stint in federal prison. But Mary has it the worst of all of us. "My mother met Mary's dad on a weekend bender in Vegas, and he is a pretty big deal. Rich, famous, the kind of guy you see on TV and the cover of magazines. A real family man, except when it comes to Mary, whom he refuses to even acknowledge. He bought my mom's silence with a lump sum payment and a non-disclosure agreement. That money was supposed to be put in a trust for Mary, but my mom snorted and injected it all in less than a year. Mary has written to her father dozens of times and reached out to him on social media countless more, but he wants nothing to do with his bastard daughter. "As for my mom, she went away for the weekend almost seven years ago now and left me in charge. And I am still in charge, I guess. So, no time for dating or romance for me, and I think that I will be just about done with raising kids by the time that Lane goes off to college." Wilma gave me a look filled with more empathy than I had felt in a long time, maybe ever. "Anyway, I should take a look at your boiler and see what I can do about getting you some heat." I would have called the boiler in Wilma's basement old, but that wouldn't have done it justice. Frankly, it wouldn't have seemed out of place in a museum of heating and plumbing, and it was hanging on to life by the barest of threads. With only a year to live, however, I wasn't going to recommend to Wilma that she replace the whole system with something more modern and efficient. "I think I can fix your boiler so that it will hold on for another year or two, and I can patch a couple of leaks in the lines to the main radiators as well. One line to a radiator at the back of the house is completely shot, so I will shut that one off and be back to replace it later this week." "What's all that going to cost?" "It's free of charge, Ma'am. You've got enough to look after with your health and all, without having to worry about your heating system. I never had a grandma to spoil, at least not one that I know of, so it would be my pleasure to do this for you." "Please, it's Wilma. And it's a grandmother's prerogative to spoil her grandchildren, and not the other way around. But your kindness is mighty appreciated, Davis." It took me a couple of hours to shore up the boiler and repair the lines that were still in reasonable condition before I was finished for the day. As I got ready to leave, I found Wilma sitting alone in the living room reading an old paperback. "I'll call you later this week, once the replacement line for your radiator comes in." Wilma got a mischievous smile on her face. "Why, Davis, are you getting fresh with me?" "If I were older and more experienced, I would in an instant. But I hardly think I can compete with the memory of your Phillip." "Too true, too true. Alright young man, well thank you for taking the time to look after a foolish old woman on a cold October night." "I hardly think you're foolish, Wilma, but it's been my pleasure." I didn't get home from Wilma's until well after nine that night, and by the time I pulled into our gravel driveway, I was beat. The dilapidated old yard light mounted on the roof of the garage shone weakly down on the sloppy mix of gravel and mud that was our yard, and I could hear the excited barks of Munchkin, our rescue puppy. He was a mix of German Shepherd and Cane Corso, with some variety of northern dog thrown in, and he was mighty pleased to see me. I'm glad that someone was. I came into our small three-bedroom rental to find Sharon and Lane sitting at the dining room table working on his math homework. I wish that they reacted like Munchkin when they saw me, but Lane just grunted a hello, while Sharon looked up at me with a mixture of sadness and worry. "Mary is out with the McDougal brothers again. They showed up here a half hour ago, I told her not to go with them, but she wouldn't listen." "The McDougal brothers are assholes," was Lane's addition to the conversation, without even looking up from the table. He wasn't wrong. The oldest McDougall brother, Calum, was a couple of years ahead of me at school and was a bully and a braggart. Two of his three brothers had followed in his esteemed footsteps, while the jury was still out on the youngest, James. "I'm going to go get her. Next time that those boys turn up in our yard, let Munchkin lose on them." "Alright, dinner will be in the oven when you get back. Given 'em hell, Bro." The McDougal brothers lived just outside Pellston in the closest thing to a mansion that you could find in our neck of the woods. Their family owned the largest construction and maintenance company in the area and had most of the Public Works contracts sown up, along with a not inconsiderable portion of the private construction in our region as well. Their parents spent most of their time in Sarasota, Florida, though, and the brothers had free rein while they were gone. As I drove up their long, paved driveway, automatic floodlights came on, illuminating the ostentatious columns that flanked the entrance to their house. I parked in front of the nearest bay of their four-car attached garage while noting that there was another three-car garage further off to the right. I idly wondered who got to park in which garage. Rich people problems, I guess. I walked to the front door and let myself in. From the foyer, I could hear the loud thump of music coming from the back of the house, so I headed that way. As I passed through the kitchen, I nearly bumped into James, who was holding a couple of empty serving bowls. He stopped dead when he saw me, looking nervous, clearly not expecting anyone else to be in their house. Certainly not me, anyway. "Hey James, I am here to get my sister. Where is she?" He hesitated a moment before pointing toward the back of the house. "She's in the game room playing pool with the guys. We didn't force her to come here or anything, if that's what you're worried about." "Maybe that's true, James. But you know she is still a minor, and I am her guardian, so I'm going to fetch her and bring her home." James didn't like the sound of that, but I turned my back on him and followed the music to a large, sunken room at the back of the house, which had an expensive-looking pool table in the middle. The remaining McDougal brothers were either playing pool or smoking up on one of the couches that were scattered around the outside of the room. Calum was presiding over the festivities, while the Pistons game was playing on a wall-mounted TV that was bigger than some movie screens. Despite his family's blue-collar roots, Calum looked like an overgrown frat boy, with his preppy clothes and fifty-dollar haircut. Mary was sitting in the middle of one of the couches, with a McDougal brother on one side and one of their hangers-on on the other. She looked somewhere between uncomfortable and scared, but she gave me a defiant scowl. The music stopped, and everyone looked to Calum and then back at me. There was a nervous tension in the air. "Hi Calum, I'm here for my sister." Calum was now in a bit of a spot; he couldn't just let me come into his home and give him orders without losing face with his brothers and their cronies. But he also knew, or at least suspected, that my sister was underage. And then there was always the Pipe Wrench Incident. That always made people nervous to be around me. "That's not my problem. She told my brother that she wanted to party, so she's here to party. No one forced her to come, and she seems to be having a good time." I wondered if all of Calum's dates looked as scared and uncomfortable as Mary did at that moment when they were having a 'good time'. "Well, since she is still a minor and I'm her guardian, it's a bit of a problem. Or it could be. But I don't want to put a damper on your evening, so I'll just bring Mary home with me and we'll call it a night." Calum looked toward James who had just come back into the room with bowls now filled with potato chips. "Is that true, Limp dick? Did you bring an underage girl home to party with us?" James began to sputter before Calum shook his head in disgust. He pointed over at Mary. "Get the fuck out of here, and don't come back until you're sixteen," he said before turning back to me. "And you. Just get the fuck out of our house." It was a silent drive home. Mary refused to even look at me, staring out the window instead. When we pulled into our yard, Munchkin came running up to greet us, and Mary finally spoke. "You didn't need to embarrass me like that. I'm old enough to make my own choices, you know." "The law says you're still a minor. And you'll always be my sister. Those guys are no good, Mary. You know that." "James is different. He isn't like the rest of them." "Maybe that's true, or maybe not. But you don't hang out in a nest of rattlesnakes, just because there is a garter snake in there with them that you think is cute." After a pause and some continued barking from Munchkin, Mary finally looked over at me. "You're not my dad, you know. You can't tell me what to do." And there it was. It always came down to the same thing with Mary; her father's rejection of her. Over the years, it had undermined her self-esteem and destroyed her self-worth to the point where I wondered if they would ever recover. Unfortunately, I was just smart enough to see the problem, but I had no idea how to fix it. A brother's love can only go so far, I guess. "I know, Mary. I know. But I love you, and I am so proud of you, and I just wish that was enough." We sat in silence for another minute before she replied. "I wish it was too." Chapter 2. It took a couple of days for Mrs. Anderson's new radiator line to arrive, and I gave her a call when I went to pick it up. "Hi, Mrs. And; Wilma. I was just picking up the replacement line for your radiator, and I was wondering if you needed anything else from town, while I'm here. I was going to come by and install the line later this afternoon if that works for you." "That's very kind of you, Davis. Would you mind picking up a few groceries for me? I can send the store a list, so they will be ready for you when you get there." A couple of my calls that day took longer than expected, so it was late in the afternoon again by the time I made it to Wilma's place. The early season snow had mostly melted away, and her yard was now a combination of gravel and thick soupy mud that could swallow a tire as easily as it could swallow a boot. "Thank you for picking the groceries up for me, you're too kind." "It was no trouble at all, especially since I was coming out this way anyway. If you don't mind me asking, how do you usually get them?" "I used to have a young man up the way who would help me with groceries and yard work, and other small things, but now I am pretty much on my own." "What happened to him? Did he move away?" "No, he still lives in the same place that he always has, but I am pretty sure that my family paid him more not to help me than I was paying for his assistance." "What? That seems like a crappy thing for them to do to you." Wilma gave a resigned sigh and then offered me a coffee while she told me her story. "I think I told you the last time you were here, that most of my family has moved on from this place, except my granddaughter Erin. The rest of them already have an agreement in place with a developer, the McDougals, to turn this property into a high-end resort for the Fudgies, so they have someplace to spend their money after visiting Mackinac Island." "Fudgies," was what the locals called the tourists from down south who descended on the upper peninsula in the summer. "If you don't mind me asking, just how much land do you own?" "Well, Phillip and I didn't have much to spend our money on over the years, so we bought up many of the nearby properties when they went up for sale. We ended up with at least a quarter mile of land that fronts onto the lake, without even really trying." I let out a low whistle. "That must be worth a small fortune. I can understand your family's interest." "At first, they didn't care if I stayed in the house after Phillip died. They figured that I would follow soon enough. After a few years, however, they started to get impatient, and it's fair to say that they are now actively encouraging me to leave, by foot, by car, or in a box. They have generously offered to put me out to pasture in a warehouse for the old and infirm, though, to await my impending doom. "With my cancer, their wish is finally going to come true. By this time next year, I will be sipping coffee with Phillip in whatever afterlife we atheists get to enjoy. Actually, who am I kidding? If there is an afterlife for Phillip and me, the first thing I'm going to do when I get there is get on my knees, undo his belt buckle, and then show him just how much I've missed him these past five years. Wilma looked a bit startled as if she had just remembered that I was still there. "I'm sorry, Davis. You probably didn't need to hear that last part. I just miss him so much. I still see him in the trees and along the shore, and I sometimes hear his voice in the wind off the lake." "It's all good, Wilma. I just hope that my brother and sisters get to experience the kind of love that you and Phillip had someday." "What about you, Davis? Don't you deserve to experience that kind of love as well?" "Maybe I deserve it, Wilma, but I don't think I am going to find it. It's been tough; real tough, looking after my family all these years. I have done things that I am not proud of, but that needed to be done. I don't regret them; I would do anything to protect the people I love. But I doubt that anyone would be able to love me, once they found out what I've done." "I think you are selling yourself short, Davis. We are all artists, and we are all worthy of love." With that, Wilma offered to top up my coffee before I started replacing the broken line. As the evening's shadows deepened, I saw her watching me with compassion and concern in her eyes. Once I was finished, I felt her hand on my shoulder, and she gave it an empathetic squeeze. "A penny for your thoughts?" I stopped what I was doing and turned to look at her. "It's my sister, Mary. I am losing her. She is so hurt and angry that she is beginning to make bad choices, and I don't know how to help her. I've tried to be her brother, parent, and friend, but I'm failing at all three." Wilma offered no judgment, good or bad. She just listened, and when I finished, she spoke. "Bring her over this Sunday around noon. Tell her to wear some old clothes that she doesn't mind getting dirty. You can come too if you would like and bring your little brother to do some fishing, but Mary will be spending her time with me." It wasn't easy convincing Mary to come to Wilma's. If you have spent time dealing with teenage girls, you know that they can be as stubborn as late-season ice on the lake. In the end, I resorted to threats and bribery to get her onboard, but she assured me that she would hate every minute she was there. Lane came with us as well, with the promise that we could spend the afternoon fishing off the end of Wilma's dock. By the time we arrived, Mary was sullenly glued to the passenger seat and wouldn't look up from her phone. Wilma waited a few minutes for Mary, but she stubbornly refused to leave the truck. Eventually, Wilma pulled on her rubber boots and walked over to the truck. She looked up at Mary and started speaking. "There are three things that I know are true. "The first, I've already shared with your brother. We are all artists because we are all worthy of love. But many of us lose our way. We are hurt and abandoned, and we are buried in shame. I was like that for many years. But my husband, Phillip, found me and taught me what it is to be loved. Not just the physical act; although he taught me about that as well; but the certainty that I was seen, known, and cherished. He showed me that I am an artist. You are an artist too. "Second, I am old, I have cancer, and I will die. Not today, and hopefully not tomorrow, but soon. And that is okay; we all die. I have lived a good life. And when I do, I hope that Phillip will be waiting for me with a glass of chilled white wine and his beautiful smile. My art may linger for a while once I am gone but, eventually, it too will be lost. "Third, the world is full of bastards. Your brother tells me that you and he are both bastards. I will tell you a secret that I have shared with very few people; I am a bastard too. "My mother was beautiful but poor. Her parents lost everything during the Great Depression, and she worked as a housemaid for a rich and powerful man to support her family. When she fell pregnant, he put her out on the street and refused to recognize her child, his daughter; me. Because of his rejection, I spent too many years steeped in shame and self-loathing. But eventually, I learned a hard truth; my father was a bastard by choice, while I was a bastard by birth. And those of us who are bastards by birth must never let the bastards by choice win. "Come inside when you're ready. I'm too old and it's too cold for me to stand here waiting for you." With that, Wilma turned and slowly made her way back to the house. Surprisingly, after a minute, Mary followed. When they reached the door, Wilma turned to look back at me. "It's time for you boys to go fishing. There is a warm breeze off the lake that will bring you good luck." Lane and I made our way down the hill to the dock in silence, our fishing rods, ice chest, and tackle box in hand. Unlike a seasonal dock that would be taken out of the lake each fall, Wilma's dock could be used year-round and was built with heavy timbers and steel bracing, so it could withstand the crushing force of the winter's ice. When we reached the dock, we felt the warm wind that Wilma had promised, and we chose our lures and began to cast. After a half hour of fishing, Lane broke the silence. "Do you think it's my fault?" "Do I think what's your fault, Bud?" "That mom left us. That she never came back. Do you think it's my fault?" I sighed as I thought about my answer. "No. It's not your fault. It's no one's fault, really, maybe not even hers. It's funny though, she brought some amazing people into this world. I wish she could have seen how incredible you and your sisters have turned out. But she made her choice, and that's on her, not you." Lane thought about my answer before he continued. "But you would be better off without me. Sharon would have more time to study for the scholarship she will need to get away from here. I try to be nice to Mary, to make her feel better, but I just seem to make things worse for her as well. And I see how hard you work to keep our family together. I feel like you would all be better off without me. If I weren't here, maybe Mom would come back home." I took a deep breath and tried to push down the anger that threatened to overwhelm me; anger at my mother for abandoning us, anger at myself for never being enough, and anger at a world that would leave my brother feeling like it would be better off if he didn't exist. I felt the wind off the lake as it blew across my face, drying my unshed tears before they were formed. As I was wondering how to unbreak my brother's heart, a particularly strong gust of wind blew through and Lane's fishing rod bent into a deep arc, the tip dancing wildly as a fish fought against the line. "Dad! Help;" The drag clicked furiously as the fish pulled line, as Lane fought to keep his rod tip up. I quickly set my rod aside and braced him, my hands held loosely beside his as he fought to reel in his catch. We worked together for what seemed like an eternity before he finally fought his fish to the side of the dock. I grabbed the net and saw that he had hooked a steelhead trout that was easily two feet long and must have weighed at least eight pounds if not more. It was a wonder the drag held steady, and his line didn't break during the fight. As I scooped up his catch, the steelhead's silver sides shimmered like polished chrome in the fading light, and it was so big that it took up over half the ice chest I had brought along to store our catch. Lane was flushed with excitement at landing such an impressive fish, and I was so proud of him that my heart almost ached. "Nice work, Son." He just looked up at me for a moment before throwing his arms around me in a hug. In the time since our mother left, he had never called me by anything other than my name. I never tried to be his dad; I didn't think I was qualified, but I guess that all of us need someone in our lives who will love us without conditions or end. "Never think that you're a burden on me or the family. Maybe you need a bit more from us right now than you can give back, but that's alright. Because sixty years from now, when I am old and can't wipe my ass anymore, you are going to be paying me back in spades, alright?" With that, we went back to fishing in companionable silence. I pulled in a few smaller ones, but nothing to match Lane's steelhead. A few hours later, the wind had picked up and it was getting colder, so we packed up our equipment and made our way back toward the house. Halfway down the dock, however, a huge gust of wind swept through, and I heard a cry followed by a loud splash. Turning back, I saw that Lane's foot had slipped through a broken slat, and he had fallen off the dock. Without thinking, I dropped the ice box and rods and jumped into the water to help him. When I got him to shore, he couldn't put any weight on his ankle, and any efforts to do so were met with cries of pain. I quickly collected our discarded fishing gear and set it to one side, before helping him to slowly make his way back up the hill. The November chill quickly took hold of us as we walked, plastering our damp clothing to our skin, and we were shivering uncontrollably by the time we reached the house. I knocked but it took a minute for Wilma and Mary to come out from the studio at the back of the house. "I am sorry to cut things short, but Lane had an accident down at the dock and he sprained or maybe even broke his ankle. I am going to have to take him to the hospital in Petoskey to get it looked at before it swells up any further." Wilma looked at me with concern. "Maybe you should hold off at least for a little while. My granddaughter, Erin, the pediatrician, is coming for dinner tonight and should be here any minute. Why don't we let her take a look at it before you head into town? And let's get you out of those clothes; you must be freezing. I still have some of Phillip's things in the closet that might fit you." A few minutes later, I had changed into a pair of comfortable but slightly musty-smelling pants, with a warm sweater over a well-worn collared shirt. I was both taller and wider than Phillip had been, at least in the twilight of his years, so the pants were a bit short, while the sweater was tight across my shoulders. While I changed, Mary and Wilma had set Lane up on the couch with his ankle elevated on some pillows. I helped him change out of his wet clothing and into an old sweatshirt and shorts that fit over his swollen ankle. Once Lane was settled, Wilma and I talked quietly in the kitchen. "It's getting late, and you must be getting hungry, but I don't think I have enough to feed everyone." I thought for a moment. "We may be in luck. Lane caught the biggest steelhead I have ever seen earlier this afternoon, but I left it down by the dock after the accident. If you have a few potatoes and maybe a veg or two, I am sure I can whip something up that would feed us all." Wilma looked at me with a sly smile. "He cooks, he plumbs, and he cares for his family, all while cutting a dashing figure in my late husband's favorite sweater. You, Mr. Crawford, are a catch." "I am not sure about that, Wilma," I replied with a laugh, "But either way, this catch had better go and get our earlier catch, so I can get started on dinner." It took me almost half an hour to collect our fishing gear and bring it back up to the truck. By the time I was done, an older SUV was parked behind my truck, which meant that Erin had arrived. After I loaded the gear, I used the fishing knife and stained plastic cutting board that I kept in a bin under the back seat to clean and filet the steelhead before heading inside. From the doorway, I could see a head of sandy-blonde hair pulled back into a loose ponytail sticking up from the far side of the couch, and I heard a calm and melodic voice talking to Lane while Wilma and Mary looked on. I was so lost in that voice that I almost jumped when the latch on the door caught behind me. The head of sandy-blonde hair looked up at the sound, revealing a pair of amber, almost golden eyes. "You must be the father," said that same melodic voice, as those eyes bore their way into my soul. "It's Davis Crawford, and I'm the older brother." "Erin Anderson, nice to meet you. Can you get hold of your parents? We might need to take Lane to the hospital for some X-rays." "No," I replied more harshly than I intended. "No," I tried again, more gently but with an edge to my voice. "Our parents aren't around; I am as close as you're going to get. I am Lane's legal guardian if that helps." There was a slight pause as her amber eyes shifted from surprise to curiosity. "That helps a lot. Why don't you give me 15 minutes or so to take a look at this brave dude's ankle, then we can talk over some options, once I have a better sense of what's going on." "That okay with you, Bud?" I asked as I walked over to the couch. "Yeah, that should be fine," he replied, but his eyes were wide, and his cheeks were flushed. For a moment, I was worried that he might be running a fever, but then I got my first look at Erin, and I understood. Maybe she wasn't classically beautiful like a movie star or swimsuit model, but she was lean and fit, and from what I could see, had more than enough curves in all the right places. It was her face, however, that captured me. She had delicate features accentuated by her high cheekbones, and there was a softness to her expression that spoke of empathy and kindness. Her eyes, though intense, had a warmth that put me instantly at ease. I realized much too late that I had been staring at Erin for an uncomfortably long time while holding the bag of steelhead filets out like some kind of sacrificial offering. While I stood frozen, the look in Erin's beautiful eyes had shifted from curiosity to amusement; I would assume at the fish-carrying simpleton standing in front of her. "Thanks, Dr. Anderson; err, Erin. I appreciate your taking a look at him and; I am going to go cook us up some fish before I make an even bigger ass of myself." Wilma joined me in the kitchen, while Erin continued to assess Lane's injured ankle. We spent the next few minutes dicing the potatoes and veggies and tossing them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper before sprinkling the filets of steelhead with a mixture of herbs. I topped the fish with some slices of a less-than-fresh, but still edible, lemon I found in the fridge, before putting the whole thing in the oven. To be continued in part 2. Based on a post by CleverGenericName, in 4 parts, for Literotica.

Topics covered include:- Favorite new artists- Bondi Beach- Trump's post about Rob Reiner- The slap heard 'round the world

Send us a textEpisode 40 - Why We Do This Hobby with Special Guest Matt McDougallIn this episode, Matt McDougall from Doogs Studio joins the Insanity to talk about his time in the hobby as well as his Doogs Studios 3D Printing company.  Jeff Herne also sits in on the show while Justin goes on his ghost hunt.  The guys first talk about why they do this hobby and how the hobby gives back to them.  Topic 2 gets a little more hectic calling out those who could be considered trophy "whores" in this hobby, this could offend some, but that is the intention.  This is a great show with some great laughs and content.  So take a listen, enjoy, and have some laughs....Opening and end music by Supernova by Arthur Vyncke https://soundcloud.com/arthurvostMusic promoted by http://www.free-stock-music.comJoin the Podcast on Facebook on The Modeling Insanity Podcast PageEmail the Insanity Crew at modelinginsanitypodcast@gmail.com for any comments or suggestions.

 This is the 236th episode of my podcast, 'Soccernostalgia Talk Podcast'. For this episode, I interview English Author and Professor of History, Dr. Alan McDougall as we discuss his book ‘Dreams and Songs to Sing: A People's History of Liverpool FC from Shankly to Klopp' (2025).  Dr. McDougall, an English Professor of History at University of Guelph (Ontario, Canada) His books include: The People's Game: Football, State and Society in East Germany (2014) Contested Fields: A Global History of Modern Football (2020) Youth Politics in East Germany: The Free German Youth Movement 1946-1968 (2004) Dreams and Songs to Sing: A People's History of Liverpool FC from Shankly to Klopp (to be released August 28, 2025)   For any questions/comments, you may contact us: You may also contact me on this blog, on twitter @sp1873 and on facebook under Soccernostalgia. https://linktr.ee/sp1873  Mr. Paul Whittle, @1888letter on twitter and https://the1888letter.com/contact/ https://linktr.ee/BeforeThePremierLeague  You may also follow the podcast on spotify and Apple podcasts all under ‘Soccernostalgia Talk Podcast' Please leave a review, rate and subscribe if you like the podcast. Dr. McDougall's contact info: Email: amcdouga@uoguelph.ca Links to Mr. McDougall's book: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Songs-Sing-Peoples-Liverpool/dp/1009340239 https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Songs-Sing-Peoples-Liverpool/dp/1009340239?ref_=ast_author_dp  Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/7JssIoKUORNVu4sEWrKSO3?si=LmyjpY8YQzyt6JWAGiq__A&nd=1&dlsi=b262f6b12a6645achttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/soccernostalgia-talk-podcast-episode-236-interview/id1601074369?i=1000739930237Youtube Link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZoYXx7nQsI Blog Link:  https://soccernostalgia.blogspot.com/2025/12/soccernostalgia-talk-podcast-episode_5.htmlSupport the show

Today, on what is a day of Thanksgiving here in the United States, we want to take a few minutes to honor three extraordinary men—Dr. John McDougall, Dr. Baxter Montgomery, and John Robbins—who we've recently lost. These weren't just leaders in the whole food, plant-based movement—they were trailblazers, mentors, and fearless advocates for health and hope.Dr. McDougall taught us that food is medicine and that living your principles matters more than pleasing critics. Dr. Montgomery showed us the power of compassion in medicine and the importance of giving everyone access to real, whole-food nutrition. And John Robbins…he opened hearts and minds, inspiring millions to think deeply about how our choices on the plate affect the world.So today, as we continue their work, let's remember: living plant strong is about courage, consistency, and compassion -and- it's about taking their message and carrying it forward in our own lives and communities.They didn't just teach us about health—they gave us hope. For that, we're thankful.Watch the short tribute on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyTake the Free 7-Day Challenge: https://liveplantstrong.com/free-7-day-challenge/ Learn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrongfoods.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Have you ever held back in your business because you were afraid of being "too much"? In this episode, I talk with Chantal McDougall, the Fairy Godmother of Storytelling, about what happens when you stop shrinking to fit in and start showing up real. Chantal shares how she went from hiding behind perfectionism to building a thriving brand that celebrates authenticity, personality, and heart. We explore what it means to let go of the rules, embrace your quirks, and build a business that actually feels like you. If you've ever struggled with people-pleasing, visibility blocks, or the pressure to look perfect, this conversation will remind you that your uniqueness is your advantage. ☑️ Why showing up real attracts the right clients with ease ☑️ How to shift from perfectionism to confidence in your message ☑️ The mindset that helps you release old stories and own your magic When you build a brand around who you truly are, business becomes lighter, freer, and far more successful. Tune in for practical insight and heartfelt encouragement to create success on your terms. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction and how Debbie met Chantal 02:00 Dropping the mask and embracing authenticity 05:45 The ADHD advantage and turning quirks into strengths 09:30 Releasing perfectionism and rewriting visibility stories 13:20 Building confidence and attracting aligned clients 17:10 Finding freedom in being seen and vulnerable 22:00 Chantal's favorite book and lessons from Debbie 26:30 Final reflections and takeaways More About Chantal Chantal McDougall, the Fairy Godmother of Storytelling and founder of Shine Your Light Online, is an authentic presence activator and catalyst for creatives and coaches. She helps women with ADHD who are tired of shrinking finally spread their wings and build brands that reflect who they truly are—quirks, sparkles, and all. Known for her magnetic energy and unwavering belief in her clients' brilliance, Chantal guides women to rewrite outdated stories, own their uniqueness, and step into confidence, freedom, and authentic impact. She believes the parts of us we were taught don't belong in business are actually our greatest superpowers. Blending marketing strategy with the intuition of a healer and the insight of a psychology graduate, Chantal helps her clients differentiate from the AI noise, speak proudly of their work, and attract the people who are already waiting to connect with them. She's the Fairy Godmother who reminds us that our "once upon a time" begins the moment we decide to own who we are and soar. Send your wish to her website: https://www.shineyourlightonline.ca/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/shineyourlightonline/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shineyourlightonline  

Welcome to the Superstar Communicator podcast with Susan Heaton-Wright! In this powerful episode, Susan returns to the mic after a busy period of running mastermind courses, speaking, and coaching—ready to inspire her audience once again. Today's conversation centers around Black History Month and features award-winning HR professional, speaker, and activist Ije McDougall Together, they dive deep into the meaning and importance of Black History Month, share personal experiences of representation and bias—especially within the UK's healthcare sector—and discuss both the challenges and opportunities facing allies. You'll hear honest stories, insightful perspectives, and practical takeaways on how to celebrate, enjoy, and engage meaningfully with Black History Month. This episode is all about amplifying voices, embracing humanity, and reminding us how representation and allyship can spark real change. Get ready for a conversation that's equal parts thought-provoking and uplifting!   About Ije McDougall: Ije McDougall's story begins in Nigeria, where growing up surrounded by fellow black Nigerians meant concepts like Black History Month were virtually nonexistent—there was no need for it in a society where blackness was the norm. It wasn't until McDougall moved to the UK as an adult that the existence of Black History Month sparked confusion and curiosity. "Why was it necessary?" was the question that lingered. After sixteen years of living in the UK, McDougall's perspective has evolved. Now, Black History Month is seen as a vital space—an opportunity for black voices to be amplified and heard without interruption. Through personal experience and reflection, McDougall's journey highlights the importance of celebrating black history in contexts where it's often marginalized, and how understanding grows with time and experience. You can contact Ije at IJETALKS.COM     Key points from the interview (bold) Ije McDougall 00:04:09 - 00:04:25 Why Black History Month Matters in the UK: "black history Month, from my perspective, is an opportunity for black people to speak uninterrupted is an opportunity for our voices to be amplified." Ije McDougall 00:04:33 - 00:04:59 The Continued Importance of Black History Month: "But the reason that we need Black History Month and for our voices to be amplified and for us to be able to speak uninterrupted is because at the moment that is not the case. It is because at the moment our lived experience and our history seems to be disregarded, belittled, or just completely erased." Ije McDougall 00:07:47 - 00:07:51 Viral Topic: Challenging the Default Status Quo Quote: "the narrative is still that the status quo, the default position, the norm is white male... but that does not necessarily mean that that is true or that is real" Ije McDougall 00:10:54 - 00:11:24 Premature Births and Parental Anxiety: "my first child, she was born at 27 weeks, so she was very, very premature. But the build up to that is things such as, you know, being told it's my first child. So I'm excited, as you can imagine, turning up to the scan with your bladder full because they tell you your bladder has to be full. So I turn up and I am bursting, but nowhere doing this scan. And I'm sitting there and we've ticked all the boxes because we want to know some measurements in regards to." Ije McDougall 00:17:20 - 00:17:58 Viral Topic: The Impact of Representation in Media: "every princess, there was no princess that looked like me. There was no good policeman that looked like me. There was no hero that looked like my brother. There was no good teacher, good policeman, wholesome family. They just never look like me. So that is the represent, the lack of representation that I grew up with. However, if we were represented, we were misrepresented as thugs, as criminals, as gang members, we were represented as the one that's not so clever, the comedian of the class, the one who is disposable." Ije McDougall 00:18:49 - 00:19:01 Viral Topic: Diversity in Media Representation "It's not that there has been a significant rise that is true in, you know, black and brown people on tv, but it is not to the detriment of anybody else." Ije McDougall 00:19:16 - 00:19:34 Representation in Advertising: "if we have a few months where there are no white people on tv, it still would not, it still would not tip it to the detriment of white people because everybody else grew up without representation or with misrepresentation." Ije McDougall 00:20:47 - 00:21:05 The Reality of Allyship Online: "I'm not seeing enough people stand up. I'm not seeing enough. You know, allyship is such a buzzword and it's such a useful term because it tells you who people are. But I'm not seeing as many as I wish I was seeing." Ije McDougall 00:22:25 - 00:22:43 Viral Topic: Authentic Allyship "You need to understand the issues as a human being. First of all, you do need to gain proximity. Try and get your head around it. And if you, from a human level, you see that, no, that's not fair because another human being shouldn't have to do this, then by all means, it's time to, you know, stand up in your standing up." Ije McDougall 00:23:31 - 00:23:41 Viral Topic: The Power of Authenticity Online: "She's not aggressive, she's not fighting anybody, she's not in any debates or arguments. But she just clearly states who she is, what she stands for. And people know."     Download the transcript of the interview  SuperStar Communicator Here at SuperStar Communicator HQ Susan and Nick love sharing great content. If you like our podcast why not buy us a coffee SuperStar Communicator Is a multi award winning international company empowering emerging leaders to speak and communicate with clarity, confidence, credibility and influence. We deliver: ·       masterclasses, ·       facilitate workshops, ·       deliver speeches – ·       face to face and virtually ·       Mastermind and programmes ·       coach individuals. More information on our services HERE Our focus is on emerging leaders to ensure they progress in their careers. If you would like more details of our work email hello@superstarcommunicator.com look at our website http://superstarcommunicator.com or why not book a call Find out more about Susan Heaton-Wright – our host: https://offers.superstarcommunicator.com/susan-heaton-wright  Check out our SuperStar Communicator Store: https://offers.superstarcommunicator.com/superstar-communicator-store Purchase a copy of the SuperStar Communicator 30 Day Plan here We have a lovely gift for you: Grab your Career Accelerator Checklist here Thank you for listening!  https://podfollow.com/superstar-communicator-podcast/episode/1bb753ffe0d4b92f8968fdb34b9b08ddc413f6a0/edit  

 The Bored Sysadmin Who Chose PHP Over .NET a young Linux sysadmin whose job involves kicking the mail server once a week and spending the rest of the time playing Call of Duty. Steve watched the dev team actually creating things and decided to join them. JavaScript looked “kind of cool,” PHP “made sense,” […] The post PHP Alive And Kicking: Episode 7 – Steve McDougall appeared first on PHP Architect.

Transforming your health is more fun with friends! Join Chef AJ's Exclusive Plant-Based Community. Become part of the inner circle and start simplifying plant-based living - with easy recipes and expert health guidance. Find out more by visiting: https://community.chefaj.com/ ORDER MY NEW BOOK SWEET INDULGENCE!!! https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248 or https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/book/1144514092?ean=9781570674242 GET MY FREE INSTANT POT COOKBOOK: https://www.chefaj.com/instant-pot-download MY BEST SELLING WEIGHT LOSS BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1570674086?tag=onamzchefajsh-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=1570674086&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.1GNPDCAG4A86S Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes. About Kathy: Kathy Hester is passionate about making healthy eating accessible and delicious. Her recipes are whole food plant-based and contain no oil, plus she can help you with your dietary restrictions or allergies with recipe alternatives. She runs the food blogs https://plantbasedinstantpot.com and https://healthyslowcooking.com. You can watch her videos and even cook along with her on her YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/KathyHesterVeganRecipes You may have already watched Kathy Hester and Cheryl Purser with Dr. McDougall on our show after they completed the 12-day Program last July. Watch here if you missed it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsYGTN6ACdk Follow Kathy and Cheryl's Starch Solution Journey on their YT channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KathyHesterVeganRecipes/ Subscribe, Like, and Share! Follow Kathy Hester on your favorite platform below Subscribe to Kathy Hester's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KathyHesterVeganRecipes/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathyhestercooks/ Free HeartBeat Group - with Free Class when you sign up: https://bit.ly/HeartbeatMain FREE! Get 4 of Kathy's most popular spice blends - including Chef AJ's favorite BBQ seasoning here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/61be8fc5d2fc90968d6f4448 #ChefAJ #PlantBasedCooking #Vegan #WhatsPlantBasedCooking #VeganHealthBundle #VeganCooking #VeganRecipes #HealthyEating #Plantbased #KathyHester Kathy Hester Join my FREE Heartbeat Community Kathy's Favorites: Kitchen Appliances, Ingredients, & Books My blogs: HealthySlowCooking.com PlantBasedInstantPot.com Community: https://programs.chefaj.com/

In 2007, four people vanished from the remote town of Nannup, Australia, Simon Kadwell, an online cult leader whose real identity was uncovered only after his disappearance, his partner Chantelle, their 6 year old daughter Leela and their family friend Tony Popic. A note was left behind “Gone to Brazil.” The next few days there were signs that either Simon or Tony may still have been active, but no one knows what happened to them.Contact us at: weeknightmysteries@gmail.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/weeknightmysteriesTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@weeknightmysteries

Episode #195 – The New Pickleball of Winter Sports: Stick Curling with Harry McDougall This week on Motivate to Move, we welcome Harry McDougall, who's bringing fresh energy back to Saint John's curling scene. After returning home, Harry found the old curling club nearly shut down and lifeless. Instead of letting it fade away, he helped breathe new life into the rink by launching a stick curling league. Now, Friday nights are buzzing with action, and the club proudly hosts the largest stick curling league in Canada. Harry shares how this version of curling makes the game more accessible, fun, and social — and why he believes stick curling is quickly becoming the “Pickleball of Winter sports.” We dive into how the league came together, why participation is growing so fast, and what makes stick curling the perfect fit for all ages. Whether you're a longtime curler or just looking for a new way to stay active in the colder months, this episode is sure to inspire.

On this episode of The Callover, we speak with outgoing Queensland Human Rights Commissioner Scott McDougall. With a career spanning more than 30 years in community legal advocacy, public policy and social justice, Scott has been a strong and consistent voice for human rights in Queensland. As his term as Commissioner comes to an end this month, we reflect on his journey through the law, his time at the Commission, and what lies ahead for human rights in the state. Transcript to come. To find Georgia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgia-athanasellis-21713715a/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Kyle B. Enfield, MD, FCCM, speaks with Garrett McDougall, MS, MSc, and Ben Forestell, MD, of McMaster University about their recent study, “Direct Laryngoscopy Versus Video Laryngoscopy for Intubation in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Trials,” published in the November 2024 issue of Critical Care Medicine. The study included 20 randomized controlled trials encompassing 4569 patients to investigate whether video laryngoscopy (VL) offers advantages over direct laryngoscopy (DL) for intubation in critically ill patients.  A key finding of the study was that VL probably improves first-pass success rates and reduces the risk of esophageal intubation and dental injury. These benefits extend across the spectrum of operator experience, especially among novice operators but also among seasoned operators.   Drs. McDougall and Forestell discuss findings that surprised them, such as seeing equal benefit for standard VL and hyperangulated VL devices. Additionally, no clear benefits were found for patients who were intubated emergently with VL as compared to those who underwent elective intubation. The discussion covers what could be next for resuscitation and airway research in critically ill patients. There may be more to learn about scenarios involving difficult airways, soiled airways, and emergent versus elective intubation. More research on device characteristics could also provide important insights. To wrap up, the guests underscore the importance of maintaining both VL and DL proficiency since DL can be a more appropriate choice for some patients. Resources referenced in this episode: Direct Laryngoscopy Versus Video Laryngoscopy for Intubation in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Trials (McDougall GG, et al. Crit Care Med. 2024;52:1674-1685).

Stephen Grootes profiles Helen McDougall- CEO at Woodlands Dairy (MARS Inc). Appointed in October 2024, Helen McDougall draws on leadership experience from Mars South Africa and Danone. At Woodlands Dairy, she is driving the company forward through its Choosing Good philosophy, with a focus on integrity, sustainability, inclusivity and innovation. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a long hiatus from interviewing ex cult members on Blackballed, James is sitting down with ex cult member Jenni McDougall, who, like every other ex members, has bad memories from being inside the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sat down with the late Dr. John McDougall, a board-certified internist, nutritional expert, and pioneer of the starch-based diet, to talk about the incredible healing power of food. With over 50 years of experience treating chronic disease through nutrition, Dr. McDougall has helped thousands of people reverse conditions like heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and even autoimmune disorders — simply by changing what they eat. We dive into the history, science, and simplicity of his starch-based approach to eating, which has been followed by healthy populations for millennia. He shares why protein and oil are overrated and even harmful, how the Western diet has made people sick for centuries, and why the future of our planet depends on what we put on our plates. This conversation is a wake-up call to the health and environmental costs of our modern diet — and a reminder that the solution is simpler (and more delicious) than most realize. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why starch (rice, potatoes, corn, beans) is the ideal human food ✅ The truth about protein, oil, and high-protein diets ✅ How the Western diet has caused disease for thousands of years ✅ The environmental destruction of animal agriculture ✅ Why supplements (other than B12) aren't necessary ✅ The moral and societal implications of feeding our children harmful diets ✅ Simple steps you can take today to reverse disease and feel your best Resources & Links Mentioned:

This week on Hull on Estates, Stuart Clark and Grey Tiansheng Wen discuss the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal's recent decision in CPC Networks Corp. v McDougall Gauley LLP, 2023 SKCA 90, a case with significant implications for lawyer file ownership and production obligations.  The decision explores what portions of a lawyer's file belong to the client versus what remains the property of the law firm, and how that distinction impacts disclosure—particularly when former clients request their full legal file or where litigation is ongoing. Stuart and Grey examine the Court's clarification of key legal principles, including: The distinction between documents prepared for the client's benefit and those created solely for internal firm use; The burden on lawyers to identify and justify withheld materials; And the recognition that document ownership does not necessarily determine production obligations in discovery.  CPC Networks Corp. v McDougall Gauley LLP, 2023 SKCA 90 (CanLII), .

This is the 197th episode of my podcast, 'Soccernostalgia Talk Podcast'.For this episode, I interview English Author and Professor of History, Dr. Alan McDougall as we discuss East German Football from 1974 to dissolution in 1990. Dr. McDougall, an English Professor of History at University of Guelph (Ontario, Canada) His books include:The People's Game: Football, State and Society in East Germany (2014)Contested Fields: A Global History of Modern Football (2020)Youth Politics in East Germany: The Free German Youth Movement 1946-1968 (2004)Dreams and Songs to Sing: A People's History of Liverpool FC from Shankly to Klopp (to be released August 28, 2025) Mr. McDougall, previously appeared on the podcast, a few years back, discussing East Germany during the 1974 World Cup.See link:http://soccernostalgia.blogspot.com/2022/03/soccernostalgia-talk-podcast-episode-67.html  contact me on this blog, on twitter @sp1873 and on facebook under Soccernostalgia.https://linktr.ee/sp1873 Mr. Paul Whittle, @1888letter on twitter and https://the1888letter.com/contact/https://linktr.ee/BeforeThePremierLeague You may also follow the podcast on spotify and Apple podcasts  all under ‘Soccernostalgia Talk Podcast'Please leave a review, rate and subscribe if you like the podcast.Dr. McDougall's contact info:Email: amcdouga@uoguelph.caLinks to Mr. McDougall's books:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JXIIEE4/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i1https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084HPBHHQ/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0199276277/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i2https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Songs-Sing-Peoples-Liverpool/dp/1009340239?ref_=ast_author_dp Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/episode/29drx94bYp0qOFykpqbXfE?si=xU8FJGXCT5Kd7h753dtqTA&nd=1&dlsi=53229958c3574dc9https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/soccernostalgia-talk-podcast-episode-197-interview/id1601074369?i=1000717054164Youtube Link:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YI981Ia0D0 Blog Link: https://soccernostalgia.blogspot.com/2025/07/soccernostalgia-talk-podcast-episode_13.htmlSupport the show

Brad Ferland welcomes in Sarah Stromeyer. Her new novel "A Mother Always Knows" is just out.Troy Ramey, singer-songwriter, turned all 4 chairs on 'The Voice', and is performing Thursday night at the Haybarn Theater in Plainfield.Elliott Greenblott has the latest on the local and national scams being used to try to get your money.And Duncan Macdougall talks about Window Dressers, where local volunteers build low-cost window inserts and provide them to neighbors who have cold, drafty houses, often for free or very discounted prices.

Do you know how to protect your kidneys and prevent kidney failure? Learn life-saving insights on kidney health, including how to prevent kidney stones and avoid the risks of kidney failure. Click Here To Watch!

Do you want to transform your health with delicious, culturally inspired WFPB recipes? Join Gustavo as he shares their inspiring weight loss journeys and show you how to make flavorful, plant-based dishes! Click here to watch! Recipes 

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Am I living in the Light--or just near it?Subtitle: Scripture: John 8:12-30Bottom line: Jesus is the Light of the World. To follow Him is to walk in light, know God, and live. To reject Him is to remain in darkness and die in your sin.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION"Have you ever tried going through an obstacle course blindfolded? The smallest obstacles become difficult obstructions. If we are not walking in the light of Christ, the obstacles that should not be a problem are great stumbling blocks to us. But when we have that light, we understand how to make our way through this dark world." -Hughes, p. 234Air Florida Flight ✈️ 90"Arland Williams and five others knew their situation was hopeless.Floating in the icy Potomac River, the six survivors of Air Florida Flight 90 knew there was no way to reach the shore just forty yards away.They could hear the rescuers trying to reach them, but each attempt to cross the icy waters failed. Just as they were giving up hope, they heard the sound of an approaching helicopter. A life ring fell into the hands of one of the survivors, and he was pulled to safety. Next it fell in Arland's hands. He could be saved. But before the helicopter could pull him up, he handed the life ring to someone else. The chopper could only hold two, so it turned toward the shore and sped away. Just a few minutes later it returned. Again the life ring fell into Arland's hands, and again he handed it to someone else. The third time he did the same.There would be no fourth opportunity. By the time the helicopter had returned, Arland had disappeared below the surface.In 2007 an article was written about Arland Williams's sacrifice and appeared in Men's Health magazine. After recounting Williams's story, the author of the article asks,Why would anyone put the lives of strangers ahead of his own?He couldn't even see the faces of the people he was saving, because they were on the opposite side of the wreckage, yet he made a sacrifice for them that their best friends might have refused. (McDougall, "The Hidden Cost of Heroism")The concepts of heroism and self-sacrifice puzzle the writer. Why would someone die for someone he didn't know? He tries to analyze it scientifically and concludes,Extreme heroism springs from something that no scientific theory can fully explain; it's an illogical impulse that flies in the face of biology, psychology, actuarial statistics, and basic common sense. (Ibid.)He even quotes Charles Darwin, who "couldn't figure out how to crowbar heroism into his survival-of-the-fittest theory" (ibid.). Darwin said,He who was ready to sacrifice his life, as many a savage has been, rather than betray his comrades, would often leave no offspring to inherit his noble nature. (Ibid.)After examining the story and different theories, the writer concludes that though the act was heroic, there would be no one to pass down the family name." Carter, pp. 189-190More on crash:https://www.perplexity.ai/search/44ed00c4-9db0-41ca-b62e-70378c94be00#0 OUTLINE (includes some input from ChatGPT)Bottom line: Jesus is the Light of the World. To follow Him is to walk in light, know God, and live. To reject Him is to remain in darkness and die in your sin.Are You Living in the Light—or Just Near It?Illustration: “Lost in the Cave”A few years ago, a soccer team of twelve boys and their coach were trapped deep inside a cave in Thailand. Rising floodwaters had cut off their way out, and they were completely in the dark. One of the greatest challenges rescuers faced wasn't just the physical danger—it was the total absence of light. In complete darkness, there's no sense of direction, no way to move forward, no way to know what's safe or deadly. The first thing rescuers brought them wasn't food or even water—it was light. Only with light could they begin the journey toward life again.In John 8:12, Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” Without Him, we are spiritually trapped—no direction, no hope. But with Him, we not only see clearly—we live.I. Jesus is the Light of the World (v. 12)Following Jesus means walking no longer in darkness.You receive the light of life—truth, clarity, and direction.Light is essential for spiritual life.Application:→ Walk in the light as He is in the light.→ Shine like stars in a dark and crooked world (Philippians 2:15).II. To Know Jesus is to Know God (v. 19)Jesus is one with the Father—there is no knowing God apart from Him.Religion without relationship with Jesus is still darkness.Application:→ Humble yourself and respond to God's call to know Him today.→ Don't settle for proximity to spiritual things—pursue Christ.III. Apart from Jesus, You Will Die in Your Sin(s) (vv. 21–24)Those who reject Jesus remain “of this world,” in rebellion.The consequence is not just spiritual wandering—it's spiritual death.Application:→ Believe that Jesus is who He says He is and will do what He promised.→ Without faith in Him, sin still owns you.IV. Follow Jesus the Way Jesus Followed the Father (vv. 25–30)Jesus lived sent—submissively, sacrificially, and obediently.He didn't act independently but responded to the Father in everything.Application:→ Follow Jesus in the same way: as a mission-minded, obedient light-bearer.→ You are now the light of the world on Jesus' behalf (Matthew 5:14–16).CONCLUSION 'Crazy Love'Francis Chan's mother died giving birth to him. The only affection he can remember receiving from his father lasted about thirty seconds when he was on the way to his stepmother's funeral aged nine. When he was twelve, his father also died. Francis cried, but also felt relieved. Francis is now a pastor. He and his wife, Lisa, have seven children. When his children were born, his own love for his children and his desire for their love was so strong that it opened his eyes to how much God desires and loves *us*. He said, ‘Through this experience, I came to understand that my desire for my children is only a faint echo of God's great love for me and for every person he made… I love my kids so much it hurts.' Calling his first book *Crazy Love*, he wrote, ‘The idea of Crazy Love has to do with our relationship with God. All my life I've heard people say, “God loves you.” It's probably the most insane statement you could make to say that the eternal Creator of this universe is in love with me. There is a response that ought to take place in believers, a crazy reaction to that love. Do you really understand what God has done for you? If so, why is your response so lukewarm?' The word ‘zeal' implies an *intense or passionate desire*. It can be misdirected, but as Paul writes, it is right to be zealous provided that the purpose is good (Galatians 4:18). Elsewhere he says, ‘Never be lacking in zeal' (Romans 12:11). Perhaps a good modern translation of the word ‘zeal' is ‘crazy love'.Bottom line: Jesus is the Light of the World. `To follow Him is to walk in light, know God, and live. To reject Him is to remain in darkness and die in your sin.Who do you trust?"All the time we each decide whom to trust. When we pick up medicine from the pharmacy, we trust our doctor who prescribed it and our pharmacist who prepared it. We also trust the company that developed it and the government that approved it, plus the people who trained the doctor and pharmacist and the many hands at the drug company who prepared and packaged it. When it comes to physical life, we trust our care to a lot of people. When it comes to your spiritual life, whom do you trust? Your authority is either yourself—what you think, how you feel, what you have experienced—or it's God and what he says. Do you really want to trust yourself with your eternal future? You are flesh. You didn't exist until thirty or fifty or eighty years ago. You can't keep yourself from getting sick or hurt. You cannot guarantee you will be alive tomorrow.Do you really think you're the best choice to be the ultimate authority in your life?" -CarterINVITATIONWhat about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESIsaiah 49:6 lightPsalm 27:1 light Exodus 14:19-20 lightMalachi 4:2 lightLuke 1:78-79 light Exodus 13:21–22Ephesians 5:8Matt 5:14; 13:43 Phil 2:15 stars in the skyNumbers 6:24-26 benedictionNumbers 9:15-22 cloud & FireJohn 3:14 lifted upIsaiah 43:11-13 "I am he"Imagine you're in a remote cabin deep in the woods. Night falls quickly, and darkness surrounds you. You fumble for a flashlight or a lantern, and there it is—sitting on the table, fully charged and ready.But instead of turning it on, you leave it sitting there. You try to find your way in the dark—bumping into furniture, stumbling over bags, even hurting yourself. You complain that it's too dark, that you can't see where you're going, that you're scared.And all the while… the light is right there.Jesus is the Light of the World. He's not a philosophy or an idea—He's a living Person who brings truth, clarity, and life. But you have to turn to Him. You have to walk in the light—not just be near it.Don't go home tonight bumping around in the dark when the Light has already come.Historical and Liturgical Background: Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot)Timing:John 7–8 takes place during or just after the Feast of Tabernacles, one of the three major Jewish pilgrimage festivals. It commemorated Israel's 40 years in the wilderness after the Exodus, when God provided water, food, and guidance.The Setting of John 8:12:Jesus says, “I am the light of the world,” likely in the Temple courts (v. 20 specifies “in the temple treasury,” which was in the Court of Women).John 8:28 video link https://youtu.be/CZSlHdEoz40?si=OD54C1Ch0BKCQKc6The Four Giant CandelabrasDuring the Feast of Tabernacles, Jewish tradition says that in the Court of Women, the priests lit four huge candelabras (sometimes described as 75 feet tall) every night:Each had four golden bowls at the top, with strong young priests climbing ladders to fill them with oil and light them.The light was so bright, Jewish writings say, that “there was not a courtyard in Jerusalem that did not reflect the light from the Temple.”This lighting ceremony celebrated God's presence—especially the pillar of fire that guided Israel through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21–22).OUTLINESee aboveQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie Newbigin (TLHC)The Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner (TVW)“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Thru The Bible with J. Vernon McGee (TTB)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT AIGrok AIPerplexity AIGoogle Gemini AI

Recorded by Brandy Nālani McDougall for Poem-a-Day, a series produced by the Academy of American Poets. Published on May 29, 2025. ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.poets.org

If you're curious to explore natural approaches to support menopause health symptoms today's episode is for you. Our guest, Melinda McDougall, is a registered Medical Herbalist specialising in women's health and menopause. She combines the latest scientific research into botanical medicines with the traditional knowledge women have used for centuries to manage their health.Melinda shares a treasure trove of herbal information about how to improve sleep and brain function, reduce stress, and help your body to feel better, as well as how herbal medicine supported her own healing process with erratic and incredibly heavy cycles in the years running up to menopause. One of my favourite parts was when Melinda described how our brains get totally re-shaped and remolded during menopause, as we wake up from the fog of estrogen people-pleasing hormone, drop into a different way of seeing the world, and become less inclined to put everyone else first. We explore:A powerful ayurvedic herb that helps your body adapt to stress and is very supportive for insomnia and sleep disturbances, as well as herbal medicine for night sweats and hot flushes. A variety of useful herbs for mental focus and brain function, if you're experiencing brain fog, or feel like your brain isn't working like it used to, as well as herbs to support you through the intense rage that we can experience during menopause,How to use herbal medicine as a viable alternative to HRT or as a way to support your body alongside HRT, like adaptogenic herbs, and herbs that support gut and liver health and can help to reduce side effects like headaches, weight gain and breakthrough bleeding. ---Order our menopause book - Wise Power: Discover the Liberating Power of Menopause to Awaken Authority, Purpose and Belonging here: https://www.wisepowerbook.com---The Menstruality Podcast is hosted by Red School. We love hearing from you. To contact us, email info@redschool.net---Social media:Red School: @redschool - https://www.instagram.com/red.schoolSophie Jane Hardy: @sophie.jane.hardy - https://www.instagram.com/sophie.jane.hardyMelinda McDougall: @melinda_mcdougall_herbalist - https://www.instagram.com/melinda_mcdougall_herbalist/

Join Dr. John A. McDougall and Dr. Joshua Helman as they expose the real cause of chronic diseases affecting 91% of Americans. Discover why Dr. McDougall asserts that it's the food we eat that's making us sick and how a starch-based diet can reverse most health problems. Learn how compliance with a whole food plant-based diet is crucial for health and longevity.#ChronicDisease #PlantBasedDiet #HealthRevolution

On this episode, we dive into seven tips to help you feel your absolute best this Summer – get ready for a ‘hot mom Summer'! Sonia opens up about her journey with postpartum swelling and highlights the importance of lymph node drainage for new moms, especially after a C-section. We discuss diet and exercise strategies tailored for women in their late thirties and early forties, as inspired by Sonia's Massage Therapist. From exploring alternative eating styles found in several ‘blue zone' countries to embracing the concept of preloading from Dr. McDougall's Maximum Weight Loss Program, we're covering it all! And if you find yourself feeling like none of that is doing the trick… well, there's always fasting or Ozempic! (Just kidding, of course!)

In this episode, Dani and Giacomo sit down to unpack the striking similarities among some of the most well-known vegan doctors out there—think Greger, Esselstyn, Barnard, McDougall, and the like. While their personalities and branding might differ, there's a surprising amount of overlap in their core messages. We're talking about what they all agree on, where they diverge, and how this impacts everyday vegans trying to figure out what the hell to eat. Expect a mix of nerdy nutrition talk, respectful critique, and a few laughs as we break down the science, the hype, and the human side of plant-based health.✨ Helpful Links and Resources:

TODAY ON THE ROBERT SCOTT BELL SHOW: Beljanski Integrative Cancer Conference: Zach Bynum, Better Way Health, Dr, Henry Ealy, Energetic Health Institute, Dr. Beth McDougall, Your Pristine Blueprint, Dr. Hania B. Bednarski, Serenity Surgery and Wellness, ENCORE - Jennifer Sharp, Vaccine injury journey, Political transformation, Film Anecdotals, and More! https://robertscottbell.com/beljanski-integrative-cancer-conference-zach-bynum-better-way-health-dr-henry-ealy-energetic-health-institute-dr-beth-mcdougall-your-pristine-blueprint-dr-hania-b-bednarski-serenity-surger/

  It's a blistery winter night in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. SWAT operator Gary McDougall is sitting in waist high snow right now. He's contemplating his career decisions. As he knows there's negotiators sitting warm and cozy, drinking coffee in a trailer. It's time we learned Gary's transition from SWAT operator to negotiator and hear about his storied career. It's time for another episode of The Crisis Cop Podcast on The 2GuysTalking Podcast Network via WhatCopsWatch.Com...   The Crisis Cop Podcast Podcast Links Bar:  Connect with The Host!     Subscribe to This Podcast Now!   This program is one of the many parts of The WhatCopsWatch.Com Effort! Rate this podcast on Apple Podcasts. the Ultimate success for every podcaster is FEEDBACK! Not an Apple Podcasts user? No problem! Be sure to cherck out any of the other many growing podcast directories online to find this and many other podcasts on The 2GuysTalking Podcast Network!   Housekeeping -- The Editor Corps - Make Your Podcast Soar: There's only one question to ask: Why are YOU still editing your podcast? Reclaim the time you spend on editing (easily at least twice the time you spend on capturing the program) to make more great content by enlisting "The Editor Corps" who will "Make Your Podcast Soar!" http://EditorCorps.Com -- The Voice Farm: Fred Wilkerson, Mike's Father that died in the first few days of 2018, always dreamed of a place that those interested in Voiceover could go to learn more about the industry and experience - without all the BS that goes with it. We build it four and a half years go and it continues to provide new voiceover artists and businesses looking for voiceover talent a place to go and secure great voiceover artists. http://VoiceFarmers.Com   Two Great Ways to Listen/Watch! We are proud to provide you both a dedicated AUDIO and VIDEO presentation for this program! To Listen Now: Hit the play button in the player on this page or hit the Subscribe button on your favorite Podcast Directory to instantly get these episodes when they release! To Watch Now: Visit this program on YouTube, or hit the window located below to see the hosts, guests and light bulb moments that make this program special! https://youtu.be/a9HuAj4thiw The Detailed Shownotes for This Episode of The Crisis Cop Podcast: Looking for the detailed links, information and references used inside this episode? Read on below to find them all and remember to reach out to ask if there's something else you'd like to see from this episode!   Timestamps for This Episode of The Crisis Cop Podcast: 00:00 Gary McDougall's Transition to Conflict Solutions 03:50 Transitioning from SWAT Officer to Negotiator Role 08:28 Listen, Don't Advocate, in Crises " 12:21 The Power of Active Listening Skills 13:09 Active Listening: Cornerstone of Successful Relationships 17:51 Empathy, Rapport, and Crisis Negotiation Outcome 22:40 Crisis Negotiation Teams and Key Roles 23:42 Distinguishing Intelligence from Information in Negotiation 28:34 Expert Negotiators: Veterans and Fresh Perspectives 32:07 Cialdini's Influence: Social Psychology Explained 34:23 Using Google Alerts for Negotiation Updates 36:26 Man Plots Disturbing Revenge Scheme 39:25 Balancing Humor in Delicate Interactions 46:02 Using Empathy in Crisis Conversations 49:11 Negotiation Success Beyond Outcome 50:35 Avoid Witnessing Potential Trauma Scenes 53:01 Experienced Crisis Negotiation Course Speaker   Questions Answers Inside This Episode of Cops and Robbers Talk: What factors led Gary McDougall to transition from a SWAT operator to a crisis negotiator? How did his background in SWAT influence his approach to negotiation? Gary McDougall talks about the importance of lifelong learning in crisis negotiation.

Episode 136 – Other Crews, by Ian McDougall Reading performed by Nick LS Whelan. The original post can be found on Ian's blog, Benign Brown Beast. Help offset our hosting costs with a donation on Ko-Fi! The music is a selection from “Journey of Solitude,” composed and performed by Russel Cox, distributed through OverClocked Remix.

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From a childhood steeped in toxic diet culture and years of yo-yo dieting, to finding peace and purpose through a plant-based lifestyle—today's guest, Jan Brown, shares her powerful story of transformation.It all started with a post in the PLANTSTRONG Community Facebook group. Jan wrote:“I grew up with a mom who was always dieting. I ate everything diet and low calorie, and yet I was the biggest kid in my class. My weight kept climbing once I was out of school, and anxiety and depression took over. I was on a vicious cycle of binge eating and starvation. My last known weight was 320 pounds.”That was more than 23 years ago.Today, Jan is a thriving wife and mother who continues to embrace a plant-abundant lifestyle. In this episode, she opens up about the pivotal moments that changed everything—including a simple book and a heartfelt letter to Dr. McDougall—and how those signs led her to a life of strength, health, and freedom.We dive into:Growing up in diet culture and breaking free from itThe emotional toll of weight gain and disordered eatingFinding freedom through whole food, plant-based eatingDealing with criticism and doubt from othersAcceptance of her new body and celebrating accomplishments and finish linesWhat truly fuels Jan's plant-strong life today - hint: it's tattooed on her hand!This is a story of healing, resilience, and what happens when you finally stop dieting—and start nourishing.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeSPECIAL Food Promo for Podcast Listeners Only!Use code: podcast10 to receive 10% off food orders at plantstrong.com Upcoming Events:Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Black Mountain, NC - Nov 9-14, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/black-mountain-retreat Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyUse Code: KALE20 for $20 off Annual Subscription at https://home.mealplanner.plantstrong.com/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Leave Us a Voicemail QuestionLeave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/plantstrong Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrongfoods.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Evolutionary psychologist, Doug Lisle, PhD discusses listener questions with co-host, Nathan Gershfeld. 0:00 Teaser Clips 0:32 Q1 Nephew is suicidal, but he called to tell me 09:19 The psychology of suicide 30:08 Follow up question from E355 37:20 Q2 My husband is addicted to marijuana – can he change? 53:07 Q3: I'm one month sober – can it last? 1:14:19 Conclusion Q1: What do you do when a family member calls you and tells you that they are suicidal?  Last night I received a phone call from my 35 year old nephew telling me he was suicidal.  Growing up he was my favorite nephew but I haven't seen him for over 20 year because he lives on the other side of the country and I was estranged from his father, my brother, who dies ten years ago. That's when his life fell apart.  Before that he was a very likeable, bright, college graduate, financially successful and an extremely fit and healthy young man.   Now he is obese, severely depressed, has an alcohol and gambling addiction and on multiple psych meds, just waiting to “get his meds right”.  He did read Anatomy of an Epidemic and did a 60 day stint in a rehab and tried AA but felt “he didn't need to be there”.  He was such a great kid so I'm heartbroken that his life has spiraled so out of control that he wants to end it.

Are you struggling with chronic fatigue, brain fog, or lingering symptoms that no one can seem to fix? In this powerhouse episode of the Boss Body Podcast, Dr. Tim Jackson sits down with renowned integrative physician Dr. Beth McDougall to uncover why so many people stay sick—and the cutting-edge therapies that are finally helping them heal. From uncovering hidden causes like mold toxicity and microglial activation to exploring game-changing solutions like SOT therapy, neuroplasticity protocols, mitochondrial support, and energetic healing, Dr. Beth shares over 25 years of breakthrough experience in root-cause medicine. You'll discover: How to identify and treat the real drivers of chronic illness What “blue brain” vs. “red brain” states mean—and how to fix them Why SOT therapy is a game-changer for Lyme and co-infections Tools to calm the nervous system and reboot energy fast How trauma and emotion physically manifest in your biology Peptides, phospholipids, and powerful protocols that actually work   Whether you're a biohacker, health practitioner, or someone who's tried everything and is still looking for answers, this episode is your deep dive into the future of functional and energy medicine.

In this episode of Woo DevChat, hosts discuss UX design and CRO with Marc McDougall, who shares insights on common misconceptions, mistakes, and the evolving role of AI in enhancing user experience.

In this episode of Woo DevChat, hosts discuss UX design and CRO with Marc McDougall, who shares insights on common misconceptions, mistakes, and the evolving role of AI in enhancing user experience.

It's exhausting to pour money into SEO strategies that never seem to pay off while watching competitors dominate search results. Too often, agencies rely on outdated tactics, empty promises, or mass-produced AI content that fails to connect with real customers. The truth is, ranking higher isn't just about keywords—it's about relevance, authority, and delivering genuine value. If your strategy isn't built around understanding your audience and creating content that actually engages them, you're not just wasting money—you're losing trust. In a digital world saturated with noise, standing out requires more than just optimization; it demands authenticity and strategy. John McDougall is a seasoned digital marketing expert with nearly three decades of experience in SEO and content strategy. As the founder and President of McDougall Interactive, he has worked with industries ranging from law firms to banks and home improvement companies. An accomplished author, McDougall has written multiple books, including Content Marketing and SEO for Law Firms and a book on dog bite law. He pioneered the "Talk Marketing" concept and runs a specialized digital marketing agency. Today, he talks about the evolution of SEO, the importance of authentic content marketing, and how businesses can use podcasting and case studies to boost online visibility and search rankings. Stay tuned! Resources Connect with John McDougall on LinkedIn Talk Marketing: Discover how your website, content and SEO can rise above the chaotic flurry of competitors. McDougall Interactive: Our 27-year track record of successful content marketing will help you avoid failed campaigns. Together, we can attract your best customers and grow your brand. Follow John McDougall on Facebook

Your Body's Secret "Source Code" That Big Medicine Doesn't Want You to Access! Dr. Beth McDougall exposes the hidden intelligence within you that conventional doctors miss entirely. After solving thousands of "impossible" health cases over 25+ years, she's uncovered the shocking truth about your body's "pristine blueprint" – an energetic template that could transform how you heal forever.Beth McDougall, MD is contributing to an emerging medical paradigm at the intersection of medicine and contemporary physics and  describes health in the larger context of our relationship to the life force that informs, animates, and connects us all. Thinking about health in this larger context provides solutions for reversing disease, slowing aging, and optimizing our lives.From Defeating Her Own Lyme Disease to Running San Francisco's Most Elite Health Clinic! Get the same actionable strategies Dr. McDougall uses with her high-performance clients. Learn the simple body-listening technique that outperforms expensive medical tests, and unlock your body's natural healing superpowers that could add decades of vibrant health to your life!ℹ️ About the GuestDr. Beth McDougall, pioneering physician and medical detective, joins us today. Follow her @bethmcdougallmd on Instagram where she shares cutting-edge insights on health optimization. Her latest book "Your Pristine Blueprint" reveals how our bodies contain an encoded intelligence that can revolutionize healing when properly accessed. As Chief Medical Officer at JYZEN, she's collaborated with top biophysicists to create what many consider the most comprehensive bio-optimization center in the world.Instagram: @bethmcdougallmdYoutube WebsiteiTunesSpotifyDownload MP3

-Becoming the newest hockey player in the world with the Ravens and getting sponsored by 2 Ales-The anticipation for Joey the Goat Martin's testimonial is through the roof and chippy lane will be ready-Keeping a positive attitude and doing what it takes to get better at the hospital-Preparing to have a dance off with the Welsh Champion in June-Win a Walton 18, 2 Ales & Hockey Tales Jersey to help pay for the flight and a round for the boys in June at Enter Raffle to Win Walton 18 2 Ales Jersey hosted by 2 Ales and Hockey Tales with Wally

In this enlightening video, Dr. John A. McDougall and Dr. Joshua Helman discuss the top predictors of longevity and health. Discover why Dr. McDougall believes compliance to a whole food plant-based diet is the most crucial factor, while Dr. Helman highlights the importance of VO2 Max, hemoglobin A1c, and blood pressure. Learn how these insights can help you achieve good health until the age of 95.#Longevity #WholeFoodPlantBased #HealthPredictors

In this episode, Chris talks to Matt McDougall following Matt's recent blog about Politics and Modelling.  You can read Matt's Blog here: https://doogsmodels.com/2025/03/01/the-public-thing/ You can also follow Matt on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/doogsmodels Chris also talks to Stefab Bridle about his Group Build to support ukraine. You can join the Group Build on facebook here: For Ukraine GB https://www.facebook.com/groups/929469842362979 or on Bluesky by posting #forukraineGB Please support our Sponsors! https://Anyz/io https://ScaleModelChallenge.com Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/theModelPhilosopher email the show at info@insidethearmour.com Chris' business ITA3 is at https://insidethearmour.com

In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with Dr. Beth McDougall, a pioneer in integrative and functional medicine, to discuss the profound impact of hormones on brain health, anxiety, depression, and longevity. They dive deep into how bioidentical hormone therapy (HRT) not only supports cognitive function but also reduces all-cause mortality and improves quality of life. Dr. McDougall shares insights from the latest research on HRT, debunking myths about hormones causing cancer and highlighting their crucial role in aging well. They also discuss practical approaches to hormone balancing, the impact of testosterone and estrogen on muscle mass, and the importance of working with a provider who understands the nuances of hormone therapy. If you've ever been concerned about hormones and their effects, this episode is a must-listen! Key Topics Discussed: ⭐️ The role of hormones in brain health and mental clarity ⭐️The connection between hormone decline and anxiety, depression, and cognitive issues ⭐️ Why bioidentical hormone therapy (HRT) lowers all-cause mortality ⭐️ The latest research debunking the myth that HRT increases cancer risk ⭐️Testosterone and estrogen's role in maintaining muscle mass and longevity ⭐️ The importance of working with a knowledgeable provider for hormone balancing ⭐️ Different forms of hormone replacement: patches, creams, injections, and more ⭐️ The common pitfalls of pellet therapy and why customization matters Products, Tools & Resources Mentioned: Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (HRT) – Discussed as a key factor in longevity and brain health Read more about HRT and longevity Lisa Mosconi's Study on Estrogen and Brain Health – Published in Nature (2024) Lisa Mosconi's study in Nature 10 Million Women Study on HRT & Mortality – Journal of the Menopause Society (May 2024) 10 Million Women Study on HRT & Mortality DHEA & Pregnenolone Supplements – Used for adrenal support and hormone balance Calcium D-Glucarate – Aids in estrogen metabolism Testosterone Therapy for Women – Addressing libido, energy, and cognitive function Article on Testosterone Therapy for Women (Vogue) Dr. Beth McDougall's Book: Your Pristine Blueprint Jyzen Bio-Optimization Center – Where Dr. McDougall practices Connect with Dr. Beth McDougall: Website: Jyzen.com Instagram: @BethMcDougallMD Book: Your Pristine Blueprint  Work with Modern Endocrine: ✅ Now accepting virtual patients in 21 states! Find out if you qualify: Click here ✅ Visit our Oklahoma City clinic for in-person consultations. Enjoyed this episode? ✔️ Share it with a friend who needs to hear this! ✔️ Leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review – it helps spread the word! ✔️ Subscribe to Hormones, Metabolism & You so you never miss an episode!

In this episode of The Great Trials Podcast, hosts Steve Lowery and Yvonne Godfrey welcome guests Tara Sutton and Philip Seiff from Robbins Kaplan LLP. The discussion centers on the significant legal case, McDougal vs. CRC Industries, which resulted in a $7.75 million verdict (later over $10.5 million after post-judgment adjustments).    Remember to rate and review GTP on Apple Podcasts: Click Here to Rate and Review   Case Details: The Robins Kaplan trial team secured a groundbreaking $7.75 million verdict against CRC Industries, Inc., a manufacturer of aerosol dust remover products. This is believed to be the first known case against a dust remover manufacturer that has been tried to a plaintiff verdict. The litigation stemmed from a tragic vehicle crash in 2019 where the client's wife was killed after her car was struck by a driver who was impaired from huffing CRC Duster. Inhaling this product can cause dramatic impairment effects from the chemical used as a propellant.  The case focused on the well-known abuse of aerosol dust remover products, such as CRC Duster, and CRC Industries' responsibility for the foreseeable consequences of their products' misuse. (Source)   Guest Bio: Tara Sutton Tara Sutton, chair of Robins Kaplan's National Mass Tort Group, has built a distinguished career in mass tort litigation and is renowned for her dedicated, unyielding commitment to justice. Her career has been marked by steadfast advocacy, and an unrelenting pursuit for accountability over corporate misconduct. Tara stands out as the embodiment of legal excellence representing individuals, governments, and Tribal Nations harmed by defective products or corporate negligence. Her legal acumen and tenacity is evident as she navigates the complex landscape of mass torts — including cases involving defective products, dangerous pharmaceutical drugs, and faulty medical devices. Read Full Bio Philip Sieff Trial lawyer Phil Sieff battles for justice when wrongdoers cause serious injury or death. Intense and relentless, he helps clients find the courage they need to face those who have hurt them. He has significant experience representing families coping with the wrongful death of a loved one, particularly a child, having handled hundreds of wrongful death cases. He has particular experience in complex and high-profile cases, including: the I-35W Bridge Collapse (lead co-counsel of I-35W Consortium, a group of 17 law firms that provided legal services to over 100 collapse victims); the Red Lake High School Shooting; and the Holidazzle Parade Disaster. Read Full Bio Links: Robins Kaplan on Facebook Tara Sutton on LinkedIn Philip Sieff on LinkedIn Robins Kaplan on X Check out previous episodes and meet the GTP Team: Great Trials Podcast   Show Sponsors: Harris Lowry Manton LLP - hlmlawfirm.com Production Team: Dee Daniels Media Podcast Production Free Resources: Stages Of A Jury Trial - Part 1 Stages Of A Jury Trial - Part 2

Wow, this was an awesome chat. It's not often I talk to a guest for ninety minutes and it feels like it's been thirty. I honestly could have chatted with Leila McDougall (pronounced 'Lee-la') for hours. Her energy, outlook, personality and authenticity make her conversationally intoxicating. She is an amazing woman, doing amazing things, overcoming adversity, inspiring communities and giving help where it's needed most. Amazingly, the girl who couldn't read or write until she was fifteen (due to undiagnosed dyslexia), went on to become an actor, movie producer, script writer, fashion designer, farmer, mum, school teacher, mental health advocate, business woman, Mrs Australia winner, cancer survivor (we didn't even get to that in our chat), former 'Farmer Wants a Wife' participant (is that the right word?), the focus of a recent episode of 'Australian Story' and as the title suggests, high-level problem solver. Enjoy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wow, this was an awesome chat. It's not often I talk to a guest for ninety minutes and it feels like it's been thirty. I honestly could have chatted with Leila McDougall (pronounced 'Lee-la') for hours. Her energy, outlook, personality and authenticity make her conversationally intoxicating. She is an amazing woman, doing amazing things, overcoming adversity, inspiring communities and giving help where it's needed most. Amazingly, the girl who couldn't read or write until she was fifteen (due to undiagnosed dyslexia), went on to become an actor, movie producer, script writer, fashion designer, farmer, mum, school teacher, mental health advocate, business woman, Mrs Australia winner, cancer survivor (we didn't even get to that in our chat), former 'Farmer Wants a Wife' participant (is that the right word?), the focus of a recent episode of 'Australian Story' and as the title suggests, high-level problem solver. Enjoy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Kim Scheuer is a dynamic plant-based telehealth physician and a passionate advocate for lifestyle medicine. Affectionately known as "Dr. Kale" by her patients, she shares her remarkable journey from a traditional family physician to embracing a plant-based lifestyle after navigating her own health challenges and witnessing the impact of nutrition on diseases.In 2011, Dr. Kim Scheuer was a burned out family physician caught in the same grind of many physicians – long hours, diminishing patient care, and running on the hamster wheel of the “healthcare” system. It was also around this time that Kim realized she was just one-year shy of the age her mother was when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Determined not to walk this path, she started doing her research and what she found both astonished and angered her. Of course, she found The China Study, Forks over Knives, and other resources, but how had she not learned any of this information in medical school??! How was she not familiar with the work of Dr. Dean Ornish, Dr. Fuhrman, Dr. McDougall, or Dr. Esselstyn?It didn't take long for this self-proclaimed “Milky Way vegetarian” and food addict to radically overhaul her own lifestyle and, ultimately, her medical practice. Today, she's a plant-based telehealth physician with Love.Life Telehealth and she's also board certified in Lifestyle Medicine. She works with patients in 25 states with general health and wellness, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, blood pressure, cholesterol control, cancer prevention and food addiction. Today, you'll hear about her very personal journey, her passion for growing her own food, her connection to nature and her very personal “why” she needed to be plantstrong.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTube