Podcasts about Medium

Old Man Squad Fantasy Basketball

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 36:54

Police in a Riot: An Officer Speaks. Special Episode. Riots are something most people only see through the lens of a television screen or a viral clip on social media. Flames in the background. Police lines in riot gear. Shouting crowds. What rarely makes it into the headlines is what it feels like to stand in the middle of that chaos, especially when you're a young police officer with only weeks of experience on the street. This special episode is streaming for free on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform In this special episode, former Charlotte, North Carolina police officer Bill Broadway takes listeners inside the harsh realities of policing during violent riots. His account is raw, detailed, and deeply unsettling, not because it's political, but because it's personal. Look for The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. Thrown Into the Fire Bill Broadway was just weeks out of field training when he was suddenly called into action to help control violent riots in Charlotte. Like many young officers, he expected to learn policing step by step, traffic stops, calls for service, building rapport with the community. Instead, he found himself facing crowds that were no longer protesting, but actively engaging in violence. Police in a Riot: An Officer Speaks. Special Episode. Supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . “These weren't peaceful demonstrations,” Bill explains. “This was chaos.” From the moment he arrived, it was clear this was something different. Police vehicles were targeted and removed. Officers were surrounded. Projectiles were thrown. Every decision carried the risk of serious injury, or worse. Police in a Riot: An Officer Speaks. Special Episode. Protest vs. Riot: A Critical Distinction Much of the public conversation blurs the line between protest and riot, but legally and practically, the difference matters. Generally speaking, a protest is an organized public demonstration of disapproval, often protected under the First Amendment. A riot, by contrast, is defined as a violent disturbance of the peace involving multiple people acting together in a way that threatens public safety. Police in a Riot: An Officer Speaks. Special Episode. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms. Federal law, under the Anti-Riot Act of 1968, defines a riot as a public disturbance involving acts of violence by an assemblage of three or more people that create a clear and present danger to people or property. Many states, including North Carolina, enforce similar statutes through laws addressing arson, looting, assault, unlawful assembly, and destruction of property. As Bill describes it, the moment objects started flying and officers became targets, the situation crossed that line. “When violence starts, it's no longer a protest,” he says. “It's something else entirely.” Injuries, Fear, and Constant Threats Bill walks listeners through every phase of the riot, from his initial arrival, to the loss of police vehicles, to the injuries sustained by officers on the line. What stands out most is the constant psychological pressure. Police in a Riot: An Officer Speaks. Special Episode. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. “You don't just worry about what's in front of you,” Bill explains. “You're watching rooftops, alleys, shadows. You're wondering if the next hit is coming from behind.” The stress didn't end when the shift was over. Officers went home bruised, exhausted, and emotionally drained, knowing they could be called back at any moment. For many, sleep was elusive. The adrenaline lingered. The fear stayed close. Optics vs. Officer Safety One of the most controversial topics addressed is the allegation that department leadership and city officials were more concerned with optics and public opinion than with the truth, or the safety of their officers. This is not a new accusation in American policing, and it remains a deeply divisive issue. Critics argue that police departments often prioritize public relations to manage perception, reduce backlash, and limit legal exposure. The use of Public Information Officers and carefully worded statements can sometimes feel, to officers on the ground, like a disconnect from reality. Police in a Riot: An Officer Speaks. Special Episode. The special episode can be found on The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and across most podcast platforms where listeners will find authentic law enforcement stories. On the other hand, law enforcement leaders emphasize the importance of public trust. Studies consistently show that effective policing depends on community cooperation. Transparency, communication, and accountability are essential, but difficult to balance during fast-moving, volatile events. “The people making decisions weren't the ones standing there,” Bill says. “That's what made it hard.” A Divided Public Public opinion on policing during riots is sharply divided, often along political, racial, and ideological lines. Some see restraint as weakness. Others see enforcement as oppression. Officers in the middle are left navigating not just physical danger, but a cultural battlefield. Bill doesn't claim to have all the answers. What he offers instead is perspective, what it's like to be young, inexperienced, and suddenly responsible for holding a line while the world watches. You Decide Today, Bill Broadway works for a different agency, carrying with him the lessons and scars of those nights in Charlotte. His story raises difficult questions about leadership, accountability, public safety, and the human cost of civil unrest. Police in a Riot: An Officer Speaks. Special Episode. The full podcast episode is streaming now on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Were the riots handled correctly by department leadership and city officials? Was the balance between optics and officer safety struck appropriately? Bill shares his experience from the front lines. You decide. Listen to this special episode on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and most major podcast platforms. Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. Be sure to check out our website . Be sure to follow us on X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. Listeners can tune in on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform and follow updates on Facebook, Instagram, and other major News outlets. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. Background song Hurricane is used with permission from the band Dark Horse Flyer. You can contact John J. “Jay” Wiley by email at Jay@letradio.com , or learn more about him on their website . Stay connected with updates and future episodes by following the show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, their website and other Social Media Platforms. Police in a Riot: An Officer Speaks. Special Episode. Attributions: Brittanica.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2 Brand Spanking New Medium Term ADDS to SMASH | Lakers Embarrassed on Fantasy Tuesday

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 24:18

Tobias Harris getting hurt wouldn't normally be a big deal, but unleashing Isaiah Stewart might be! Jake LaRavia is on a steals binge with Rui Hachimura out, and suddenly a Tuesday that seemed quiet enough churned out a pair of sexy new adds! The Old Man Squad has a PATREON now. It's $1 and doesn't get a single benefit. It is entirely to support the mission here but won't change anything we do. https://www.patreon.com/cw/oldmansquad Follow Dan Besbris on Twitter: https://x.com/danbesbris Find Dan on the brand new BlueSky social network: https://bit.ly/3Vo5M0N Check out Dan's Google Sheet with Ranks, Weekly Streaming Schedule Charts & Injury Replacement Adds FREE! https://bit.ly/3XrAdEW Listen and subscribe on iTunes: https://apple.co/3XiUzQK Listen and subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ACCHYe Float on over to the new Old Man Squad Sports Network YouTube page to watch videos from the network's top talent: https://bit.ly/46Z6fvb Join the Old Man Squad Discord to chat with Dan and all the other hosts: https://t.co/aY9cqDrgRY Follow Old Man Squad Fantasy on Instagram for all our short videos: https://bit.ly/3ZQbxrt Podcast logo by https://twitter.com/freekeepoints Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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Conversations That Moved Us Forward in 2025: Best of the Going Forward Podcast

Adcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 38:32

Every year leaves behind a trail of ideas worth returning to. In this Best of 2025 episode, we've gathered the moments that carried us forward throughout the year. We had exceptional guests whose conversations sparked clarity, challenged comfort zones, and pushed us to think bigger and act more intentionally in our own communities and beyond. These are the lessons that defined the year for us, and the ones we'll be carrying into what comes next in 2026.Connect w/ Eric Elliott:Website: ⁠https://ericelliott.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-elliott-45704745/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ericmelliott/⁠Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/ericmelliott⁠Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/ericmelliott⁠Email: ⁠Eric@EricElliott.com⁠Text: ⁠843-279-5843⁠Supercharge your online advertising campaigns with Optmyzr!Streamline management, optimize performance, and boost your ROI. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://hs.optmyzr.com/hs/vip⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to discover how Optmyzr can revolutionize your digital marketing.Also, as a special treat for our listeners, sign up with the code GOINGFORWARD20 and enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on your first year with Trainual! Seize this opportunity to supercharge your operations and propel your business forward!Eric Elliott is a self-made entrepreneur and marketing expert with extensive experience crafting impactful brand narratives for clients across industries. He is the founder of VIP Marketing and Craft Creative. In 2009, Mr. Elliott started VIP Marketing with almost no resources. VIP now has a global team and is recognized as one of the top branding agencies in the USA by ⁠Clutch.co⁠. He founded Craft Creative in 2015, a full-service video production company providing premium services to clients across the US. Eric is also the host of Going Forward, a podcast moving conversations with entrepreneurs and leaders that inspire, motivate, and challenge you to embrace possibility and make a difference. Mr. Elliott is the author of numerous articles and an active contributor to Entrepreneur Magazine, Forbes, and Medium. Recognized as a pillar of his community, the city of North Charleston established Eric Elliott Day to honor his name and legacy to inspire others.Going Forward is brought to you by ⁠VIP Marketing⁠.VIP Marketing is a law firm marketing agency based in Charleston, SC. Our mission is to partner with our clients to make them the choice in their market, not just a choice. We're focused on helping them thrive in the digital age by providing a comprehensive suite of services specifically tailored to their needs including: digital marketing services such as SEO and PPC; brand strategy and identity design; website design and development; and premium video production. At VIP Marketing, we elevate the marketing presence of law firms, helping them stand out in competitive markets.

Ep.202 Harold / Caretaker (Throwback)

UFO Chronicles Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 67:23 Transcription Available

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Meditación para el TDAH: entrenar la atención

Meditaciones Mindfulness

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 12:03

El déficit atencional trae varios desafíos, y también el riesgo de patologicemos lo que vivimos. Las distracciones ocurren, son parte de la experiencia, y aprender a relacionarnos con estos idas y vueltas de la atención puede aliviar mucho estrés (que es el que afecta a su vez nuestra atención).En esta meditación veremos que está bien irnos por momentos; lo importante es volver con gentileza.

247 - Danke

pink spirit talk - Spiritualität für Jedermann

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 8:09

In der heutigen Folge von pink spirit talk möchte sich Annette bei Dir bedanken, denn ohne Dich gebe es pink spirt talk nicht. Und ein kurzer Ausblick auf Anfang 2026. Mehr Informationen über Annette und pink spirit findet ihr unter: www.pink-spirit.de.

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Quaranteam - Dave In Dallas: Part 10

ExplicitNovels

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025

Quaranteam - Dave In Dallas: Part 10 Dave & Olivia use skills meant for a last resort.Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels. Let's review the list of characters: David Belsus – 46, physics & astronomy professor at Eastfield college, a community college in the Dallas area. Prepper, survivalist, has a greenhouse in his backyard and lives in an outer ring suburb. Six foot, fit, short cropped hair. Lupie Ramos – 32, former financial advisor, Dave's neighbor, got caught out of state when the lockdowns started. She spent two frantic weeks trying to get back to her daughter. Lupie has been in love with Dave for over a year. Long, dark brown hair, medium build, and a lovely smile. Esme – 9, daughter of Lupie, prone to the occasional snarky comment. Adores Dave. Becca; 18, Lupie's babysitter, was watching Esme when lockdowns occurred. Her refusal to abandon Esme, as her mother insisted, likely saved Becca's life, since her extended family ignored precautions and died of Duo. Esme, Lupie, and Dave are all Becca has left in the world. Short, medium build, small tits, with short blond hair and a smile that is shy with strangers and beams with family and friends. Janice Wheeler; 33, Dave's first partner to arrive, a librarian at Cedar Valley, another community college member of DCCCD. Slender build and medium height, Janice is 3/4 Korean, her paternal grandfather is Anglo. Medium length black hair often pulled back in a bun for work or ponytail at home. Shawna Cooper; 36, senior meteorologist at WFAA, Master's degree in meteorology from O U, worked at NSSL and spent time as a storm chaser. Whole hog sci-fi nut, beginning with Start Trek TNG. 5' 10", large tits, medium brown skin, dark brown eyes, shoulder length black hair styled like a frizzy weeping willow. Olivia Tyler (Liv); 21, senior studying horticulture at Tarleton State University, near Dallas. Daughter of Carter and Janelle, Dave's best friends since college. Had a well-known crush on Dave throughout her teen years. Since her dad was former SF and a survivalist, Liv is skilled with several firearms as well as bladed weapons. Never failed to take a deer any season she's hunted. 5'10" long, dark brown hair, large tits, lightly tanned, brown eyes, and a wide smile. Melanie Ustanich; 22, graduate student in IT at Tarleton, Liv's roommate, recently found a passion for cooking. Spent most of her life in foster homes, Liv's parents accepted her like family the first time she went with Liv on Thanksgiving Break. 5'8" medium length auburn hair, green eyes, small mouth with a ready, mischievous smile. The ladies came through, leaving one mug beside the detective and swiftly exiting with the pot, several mugs, a milk jug, and a small container that may have just been repurposed as a sugar dish. Verratti pushed her mask up to her nose to take a sip, holding the mug like a sacred talisman, her eyes closed and a look of bliss dawning on her face. It was a short day. She opened her eyes and the distance they contained sent the brief appearance of joy below the horizon once again. Laying her mug back on the table, she pulled her mask back into place. "The man that was with you that day at the range?" "Yes, my friend Carter. He was the one that arranged the time on the range." "And how did he manage that? Didn't you say a few times he was a security guy?" "He runs physical and digital security checks for sites his company guards. He and his guys also get hired out by insurance companies to check out their client's security plans as well." For a moment, Dave allowed himself to forget the pain and use the present tense. "I think you mentioned a few times before class that he was in special forces?" "Yep. He likes to say his civilian job is kinda similar to his work in the army, just with paintball or laser tag gear." "Good." She motioned him to sit close, so she could speak lower. "You've stumbled into something no one seems to be working hard to solve." Dave's eyebrows stitched together. Her tone was more ominous than her words. "Nine weeks ago, a truck carrying seven vaccinated women was attacked. It was on its way to some rich neighborhood to deliver partners to the McMansion set. The attackers covered their tracks reasonably well, so we never caught them. Two weeks ago, a shipment of vaccine got hit between Grand Prairie and the Vax Center. They didn't even try to take the whole shipment, just grabbed a bunch and ran like hell. The chopper that was following them didn't have infrared on it, so they lost track of them in the trees in the dark." Dave stayed silent as she paused to gather her thoughts. "Look, I shouldn't have said any of this, but nobody's doing anything. Your friend has the skills to deal with the problem. And the way you've always presented yourself, if he's your friend, then he'll want to apply his skills to right a great big fucking wrong that's being ignored. There's an Air Force liaison office in the station right now. They're supposed to coordinate a military response to big attacks, but they've been blasé about both attacks." "Wait? Military to take out crooks? I mean, even big deal shit like this? Shouldn't that be done by SWAT or ATF?" She stared at him. If he had to guess, her lips were tightly pressed together under her mask. Her words were tightly spoken as she continued. "The fact your attackers cut their fallen buddies' nuts off suggests they had bonded female partners. That means either the hijacked transport, or the vaccine attack. Maybe both. And that means they may have been coming here to abduct your partners and bind them to themselves." "But that would kill them!" Dave started out as a loud interjection, but at her look, and as his own self-control kicked in, he dropped to a strenuous whisper. "There; is a way. But only if the man is dead. There was an ER nurse on the first transport. She would have known about the procedure, at least in broad terms." She pulled a map from her valise. Unfolding it, she pointed to two locations. The attacks happened here, and here." "Yeah, that stretch of I-20 is a bit empty, even being in the middle of urban sprawl." "Because of that attack, they moved the flights to Love Field." "No rural hideouts along the way." "Exactly. Now look, here's where the chopper last was sure they had an eye on them." Her finger indicated a spot southeast of Athens. "What I'm asking you is to get a hold of your friend. See if he and some of his team are willing to investigate; and maybe rescue some of these women. No one else is doing anything about this. And they are escalating." "Do you think they'll try again here?" "I don't know. Not anytime soon, you gave them plenty of reasons to give this place a wide berth. I can't swear to that, but I'd say they'll at least leave you alone for a while." Which means they may be coming for my family again. Whenever they feel like trying again. No point in telling her about Carter. I'll have to do this myself, but I'm not telling her that. A trained, former special forces operative that still does security testing is a reasonable person to ask to do this. A community college professor that's been trained by his prepper buddy doesn't sound nearly as reassuring. Fuck Carter, why the hell did you have to die? "How sure are you on that last sighting?" She flipped her notebook back several pages. After consulting her notes, she carefully laid her finger again on the map. "Right there." Dave stared at the indicated location, noting nearby major road intersections and the distances from each to the tip of her finger. Mainly, he looked at the roads that formed a boundary around the area. The raiders may not be inside that space, but it was a place to begin. "Be very careful. There's suspicion that some army deserters are with these guys." She took a deep breath. "It's like pulling teeth getting anything out of the Air Force woman about this. Please professor, talk to your friend. I'll contact you in a day or so to see if he's responded." "Why don't I just call you?" "I'd rather have that discussion when I'm not at the station or around other officers." "Okay. You need anything else from me detective?" "No. No, I should be going. I'll call in a few days." "I'll be ready." Hope I've found them by then . Dave walked her to the door and locked up behind her. He slipped over to the parlor to check the window patch for any air leaks. Dave ran his hand around the edges, slowly, but felt no movement, not cold streams. Some of the family had come downstairs, now that the weather was once again outside. Dave sat in a chair, staring off into space while the others red or talked. This may take more than a day, just to find these guys. And once I do, I'll need time to observe, and then time to plan. Food, water, ammunition. I'll need something long-range. My best bet will probably be picking them off one at a time at first. I've got silencers for the MP5's, but no subsonic ammo. It's still going to be obvious when I shoot. Carter has all the subsonic ammo. Imagine the look on the face of whoever finds his armory. Fuck, what if they just bulldoze the place? Yeah, Liv and I need to try and get his weapons and equipment. Wait, I have subsonic.22LR. I could use that for the first few. Fuck, I'm really doing this. That means I'll be gone for a few days. It's already been two days for Rebecca, and she's on such a short fuse. We really ought to ask the vaccine experts why that is. Gee, what a call to make. "Hey, vaccine guys? Yeah, look, I've got this eighteen year old cutie that just insists on having sex every four days. Like, she's climbing the walls by day five. What's up with that?" I'm sure they'll have all kinds of sympathy. Well, I have my first thing I've got to do before I go. Dave found Becca in the room she and Reena shared. The one they'd previously used as a 'hotel room' the night the ladies put together for prom. Reena was not around. "Hey, sexy nerd girl, what're you up to?" Becca rolled on to her back from her book reading. Her face was glowing, though she was also blushing from her scalp to, well, lower than her shirt collar. She very cutely bit her lower lip. Dave chuckled. "You are so damn cute, ya know that?" Her face twisted a little. "Demotion huh? I've gone from sexy to cute in less than a minute." "One does not preclude the other. There is an intersection of the two. In my opinion, you exist within that intersection." "God, you know how weirdly sexy it is that you can talk math about sex?" "You know how great it is that you're one of two partners I can talk to that way? Most of the others either won't get it, or will be turned off by it." The radiant look Becca got from the compliment was exactly what Dave was going for. She wasn't just a teen hottie, or gamer girl, or some other check box. She was his younger nerd partner that he got to introduce to so many things he loved that were new to her. Or, things she'd heard about, but not yet experienced. And she was fun in bed. Becca's hand slipped to the hem of her t-shirt. Dave stepped swiftly up to her bed and grabbed her hands. He pulled her around so her ass hung off the edge of the bed and her head was braced against the wall. She and Dave were still experimenting with different ways to have sex. She'd recently mentioned that quickies sounded kinda hot. Dave figured now would be a good time to try. He grabbed her shorts and panties at the hips and pulled both down to her calves, bringing her legs straight up in the same motion. Dave leaned against her, her ankles on one of his shoulders, as he unbuttoned his pants and shoved pants and boxers to mid-thigh. The aroma of Becca's arousal reached Dave's nostrils, matching the signal that her panting breath and lust-filled eyes were sending. Truth to be told, he was fairly revved as well. The little gasp she gave as he hand-fed his mostly hard cock into her saturated pussy was delicious. Dave leaned in closer, folding her legs back onto her body, her ankles on either side of his head, her shorts against his collarbone. He drilled her fast and hard. This wasn't love making, wasn't a tantric exercise, and was not 'the full Dave'. A quickie was just that; hard, fast, and get 'er done. Becca's cute little huffs and grunts urged him to keep going, her moist, rippling channel gripping his shaft and egging him on. In due time, Dave felt that familiar tingle in his balls rising up through his cock and he began firing his hot seed into her eager passage. Becca shuddered and convulsed the same as if Dave had taken most of an hour lifting her to ecstatic heights. Dave leaned a bit further in to kiss Becca tenderly on the lips. Becca giggled. "That was fun." "Good, we can add that to the repertoire," Dave said, buckling his pants. He leaned in for another kiss, this one with just a moment of lingering, before walking away. Becca's eyes shone brightly as they followed him. Now I wait. Dave spent the rest of the evening sitting with his ladies, sometimes talking, mostly listening. Lupie called everyone to the dinner table. A nice warm casserole that soothed the insides after most of the day with the inside matching the weather outside. Downstairs anyway. Mostly what Dave remembered from the evening was looking around the table at his family as they chatted and moved on from the events of the morning. Mostly. Every once in a while, someone's attention wavered, or they flinched from a sound. That's why I have to do this. Dinner was late enough that some began their night time routine once it was over. It had been a draining day, even for those that had huddled upstairs. The emotional impact, the fear and anxiety they'd gone through took a physical toll. "Hey, Shawna, let's meet in my office in a few minutes, okay? I'll find Liv and Mel and have them join us." "Sure. Night security?" "Yeah. The detective was reasonably sure there wouldn't be a repeat tonight, but let's be safe." "Okay." Shawna hugged him tightly. Dave went off to find the other two, then made his way to his office. Even though they'd just finished dinner, he felt a bit munchie. He pulled a half-eaten pint of blueberries out of his fridge and snacked slowly. Each woman smirked as they entered. Shawna started imitating the guitar intro of a certain song by Black Sabbath. Dave just shook his head with a rueful smile. Then he popped a few more berries in his mouth. "We need to maintain a watch tonight," he informed them once he'd cleared his mouth. "The threat is perceived to be low, but I'd rather not take a chance. I'll take first watch, then wake Shawna to relieve me. She can wake Liv, and when Liv's shift is over, she can wake Mel." The way Olivia stared at Dave made him wonder if she suspected his real plan, but she said nothing. "We'll post guard here in Shawna's morning room with the door open. It's right at the top of the stairs, so anyone would have to come past the guard to get to any of us. I'll drag the chair from that room to the door, far back enough that anyone looking in will see darkness, but near enough the guard can see the head of the stairs and part of the hallway in each direction." "That's it. Get some sleep. When it's time to switch over, get up and get moving. We'll have one pistol out and transfer that over. Don't go to bed until your relief is in place." Shawna came in for a kiss before she left. A long, slow kiss with no tongue. She looked meaningfully into his eyes before she walked out, saying nothing. Dave waited over an hour for all the activity in his house to settle and everyone to fall asleep. He slowly and quietly rose from his seat. He slipped in to the master bedroom to find Shawna on the outer edge of the bed. Of course she'd thought ahead so she wouldn't disturb the others. Dave lightly tapped her foot, and she stirred awake. Dave went back to his post while she dressed. Once she got there, he handed over the pistol. "You're going after them aren't you?" she whispered low and urgent. "Yes. It's the only way to ensure everyone's safety. These guys are a danger to us, and others. The detective was so frustrated with the inaction, she told me other events that have happened, but no response from the police." "Other houses have been attacked?" "No, the other attacks haven't been on houses, but they look related." "How far away are they?" "I don't know for sure. She gave me some information on the last place they were seen." "Then how long will you be gone?!" She kept her voice low to not disturb anyone, but there was a 'shouting' tone to her whisper. "I don't know. I'm taking food and water in addition to the rest of the gear." "David, please be careful. All our lives depend on you." He wrapped his arms around her for a tight hug. "I know. I'm doing this for your safety. No more middle of the night break ins." He paused for a moment. "Carter took me through a few scenarios that apply. We had to use paintball guns for those trainings, but I've spent plenty of time on the range with all of these weapons. I won't be as good as Carter, but I'm good enough to pull this off. I'm coming back to you babe." He pulled back so they could look each other in the eyes. "You are plenty of reason to come back." "Me and eight others," she said with a teasing grin. "Anyone of you alone is enough to go fight this fight and get my ass back here in one piece. I finally understand Carter now. Somethings you have to fight for." He slipped away from her and went to the master bedroom closet. In a box tucked away in a corner, he pulled out a set of lightly used 90's era BDU that Carter'd urged him to get from an Army-Navy store. It was not the only set, but he wasn't going to be gone that long. Hell, his partners would all be screaming for doses by then. After dressing, and donning his combat boots, he walked silently out of the bedroom. That he had to pause and prep his mind for. Carter had shown him how to walk quietly in these boots, it just took practice and care. It had been a long time, so he ran through the lessons and practices in his head for a minute after he had them on. He trod gently down the stairs to the gun closet. He typed in the code and swung open the door. That's when the darkness at the end of the unlit hall moved. "Go to bed Olivia." His voice was flat. "You are not going after these guys alone." Dave flipped on the light in the small space. The illumination spilling into the hallway revealed Olivia in a matching pair of BDU. "How the hell?" "I mailed myself a box to this address before I reported to the vaccine center. Mostly other stuff, but one set of woodlands and my best broken-in boots." "Livy, you need to stay here and watch the others." "I need to watch over your ass and bring you home so you can keep fucking all these women that are addicted to your cum." Dave felt a wave of shame at the comment. That he was risking himself, some, but their safety required he take out this threat. That he was; unfaithful to any of these women, because none of them were the only one. Yes, he could personally enumerate all the reasons why, but that didn't change the visceral reaction of a man that never wanted a lot of women, just one that he could be devoted to, and vice versa. "Liv ;” "I'm not trying to talk you out of this. I'm certainly not condemning you for having multiple partners, David. On behalf of myself, and all your partners, I insist I go with you and provide overwatch. You know I'm a better sniper than you. You're better at CQB. We do this together." A cold hand gripped Dave's chest. "Olivia, I already dragged you into one gunfight. I won't do it again." "You didn't drag me into anything. The world sucks and some people are assholes. The same guy that taught you raised me not to just stand idly by. I'm going with you." She came in close, molding her hand to his jawline. "You didn't cause the attack this morning. You stood in the gap, and I stood with you. What you're about to do is needed. And I'm standing with you again." Without another word, she slipped around him and started gathering her gear. Dave joined her. Within half an hour, they loaded tactical gear, ammo, weapons, water jugs, canteens, and field rations in Liv's pickup and got on the road. They were completely in sync, though neither spoke a word. Chapter 12; A Walk on the Chaotic Good Side. October 29, 2020 12:30am The hum of the heater fan on its lowest setting combined with the warm air coming off the windshield were not helping Dave maintain alertness. Livy drove while he checked their route against what he'd seen on the detective's map. So far, it was just a matter of 'drive towards Athens'. Dave snuck the window down a little, inviting some cool air to help him stay fresh. Not too far, though. Occasionally, they'd run into an isolated cloud still giving up a pittance of drizzle, remnants of what passed over their house yesterday morning. Mostly it was just cold. "I miss the little triangle windows that pivoted open on Dad's old beater pickup." Dave chuckled. "Yeah, those were useful. Guess somebody decided to save money and make them fixed instead of movable." Olivia humphed in response. When she said nothing for a few minutes, he reached into the bag on the seat between them and pulled out an apple. She didn't notice until he took his first crackling bite. "Damn. Again?" she laughed. "Fill up too much and you'll bust out that stab shirt. Sorry, it's just;” "I'm eating way more often than the rest of you, and not gaining any weight. Yeah, I know. They said this serum shit has weird side effects. Seems for me it's kicked my metabolism into the stratosphere." "Oh, big words like 'stratosphere' huh? Hmm, ya know, the higher metabolism would explain why you're outrunning me." Dave turned his head towards her, a mock annoyed expression on his face. "I've been faster than you for years. For a bit there in your teens you gave me a good challenge." Liv giggled. "I got faster so you'd have to look at my ass." "I worked harder to stay ahead of you so I wasn't looking at a sixteen-year-old's ass." Out of the corner of his eye, Dave noted Livy giving him a rueful look. With a quiet voice; and one eye on the road; she asked, "Is this the only way we could have been together?" His heart skipped a beat. His voice was deepened with loss when he replied, "I don't know, Olivia. I just don't know. The two of us together would have been a very unusual pairing in other circumstances. No law would have stopped us being together but a lot of custom and tradition would interfere." He reached his hand out and she took it. "So it was either this, or an asteroid hitting the Earth for me to get you?" Dave laughed. "Maybe not quite that dramatic." Their joined hands lay on the seat between them for a time, enjoying the union of their lives as the cold, damp miles passed. Half an hour later, signs proclaimed a junction ahead as they neared their first waypoint. "Want me to stay on 175 and go east around Athens?" "No, west on 7. When we get to the southside of town, we'll take 19 south." Dave waited before asking, "You need to switch out. We've both had long days." "I'm good. Just hand me another Dr. Pepper." Dave knee-stood in the seat, reaching back to the cooler with water, soda and reusable freezer packs. Ice would have been too loud loading at the house, and going to an automated ice station was more deviation than he was willing to take. The drinks weren't ice-cold this way, but they were at least cool. Between the caffeinated soda, and the No-Doz bottle in the glove box, they could fight off the drowsiness the road hum threatened to induce. Weirdly, the squeeze from the compression shirt for the stab plates helped keep him awake, though it did make it tougher to twist around for things. Maybe if he wore it more often, he'd know how to move better in it. With the late hour, and pandemic rules in effect, they hadn't seen another vehicle since pulling out of their own driveway. They crossed three overpasses for major roads out of town before exiting to southbound 19 / Palestine St. The creepy feeling intensified as they took their exit. The north side of the road held a hospital with what was undoubtedly the only ER for thirty miles around. In some directions, even further than that. And there was no activity at all. The lights were on. But no signs of human movement. A few miles down the road they passed the middle school, completely abandoned since March. Liv's hand slipped back to the middle of the bench seat. Dave added his to hers, holding her gently but firmly. Ten minutes later, with their headlights boring holes into the pitch black, Dave's phone buzzed. He pulled it out, noting the time was now approaching 2am. -There's been another attack, this time on a very rich man's estate. Bodyguards dead, left laying there. -Rich man dead, carried off, along with most of his partners. -Last seen southbound on 45, suspect they are taking that to 287 until Palestine. No intelligence beyond that. Please ask your friend to decide quickly. Dave quietly fumed. Another attack meant more suffering that he hadn't prevented. That was the whole point of this crazy scheme wasn't it? Immediately, he recalled a story Carter had told only once, after they'd been roommates for more than a year. It was a 'Boy's Night In' with two pizzas and a tsunami of beer, and some typical action flicks playing. Dave's friend related a time when they'd been too late to protect a local villager that had cooperated with the Special Forces team. The local government goons had not been kind to the collaborator. Or his family. "We found out too late, got there too late, not a fucking thing we could do. Not one fucking thing. Except," he raised his head so his bloodshot eyes were revealed, "we tracked the fuckers and took them out before they got back to their base. It was beyond our mandate. We were supposed to train only, not engage directly. We did it, and never talked about it." Track the fuckers down and take them out. Little wonder why that particular memory surfaced now. "Something wrong?" "Text from the detective. They hit another house. Successfully this time." "Oh shit. What are we going to do?" "What an old friend once told me was the only real option. Track the fuckers down and kill them." "Dad was such an eloquent man." Dave barked a laugh as he texted back. -We're already enroute. -We'll locate them on the run and track them to their base. -Thank God. -And thank your friend for me. Dave still saw no reason to inform her of his omission. Well, he felt a little guilty, but she'd get over it. Lupie on the other hand, might just tie him to the bed and spoon feed him between each woman's 'dosing' turn. Shawna might or might not help Lupie, but she was not going to help Dave avoid Lupie. Hell, by the time he got back, Lupie might be so worked up she'd chew him out exclusively in Spanish for over an hour. In between kisses and hugs because his dumb ass came home in one piece. Getting his mind back on the present, Dave pulled up a map on his phone. "This may make it easier to find their base. They're coming down 287. Previous attempts tracked them as far as Palestine. We'll intersect with 287 just outside Palestine, so we'll pick a good spot when we get there and wait. I suspect they will be an hour or half hour behind us." "K." Dave zoomed and scrolled on his map for several minutes. "There's a community college north of the intersection. It has a parking lot that will give us a good view, but far enough away we could miss something. There's also a gas station and a convenience store on the south of the intersection, on the west side that would give better views, but higher risk of detection. It's probably closed. If we're the only car there, it's going to be awfully suspicious; especially if we pull out right after they pass." "Don't worry, Dad gave me a few lessons on shaking a tail, and on tailing. Just before I went off to college, he even had me drive back country roads with no lights; on the road or car. If we can avoid getting noticed when we first pull out; by waiting 'til we can just see their tail lights; we should be fine." "Let's go for the convenience store first. If it looks too dicey, we'll move off to the college parking lot." Liv nodded her agreement. The silence that followed persisted until the intersection loomed. The community college parking lot had all of its lights on, as did the Exxon just south of it. The Valero on the west side and south of the intersection had its awning lights on, but no more. No lights were on around the convenience store south of the highway confluence. Even better, there were two vehicles parked in the lot. Liv pulled into a space near one of the other vehicles. But not too close. She killed the lights, lowered the windows halfway, and turned off the ignition. Both occupants of the truck surveyed first the near vehicle, then the more distant one, looking for any sign of occupancy. If these guys were good, they might have a lookout posted to watch for a tail. During the forty-five minute wait, neither their eyes nor ears detected any sign of another person in the parking lot. For that matter, there was no sign of anyone around the college, or in the gas station south of them. The station across the way probably had an attendant inside. A low rumble coming from the northwest initially alerted Dave and Liv to their approaching quarry. Without exchanging words, they each hunched down in their seats. Both were on full alert. Hunter versus hunter was a dangerous game. Of course, if one hunter doesn't know the other is around, so much the better. For the other at least. Five S U V, varying from mid-size to huge, rolled swiftly through the interchange. They slowed from far in excess of highway speeds, down to something reasonable for the possibility of merging; if one had incredibly sparse traffic to handle. Which worked just fine, since there was absolutely zero traffic to merge with. As the engine sounds began to fade, Livy sat up and started the engine. She quickly doused the lights that automatically lit up before backing out from behind the vehicle two parking spaces over. Hopefully, it shielded them from the target's notice. Well, that and the fact the targets were headed away from them, and presumably keeping hostages in check. With swift, smooth motions, Olivia got the pickup on the highway following the distant trail of tail lights. Noting the woodlands on both sides of the highway limiting visibility around the curves, Livy began rapidly closing the distance. Balancing that were the few streetlamps and the need to not show up in the last vehicle's rearview mirror. The train of S U V passed under one, went dark again except for the taillight; which brightened briefly; then were illuminated again for a flash before disappearing. "Shit," she muttered. "It's gotta be the underpass for the loop. That's why they went left and cut off. They went behind the embankment. Just take the loop to the left and keep pressing. We'll catch them. Just be careful of more street lamps. I'm not sure if this loop they're hopping on is limited access. If they hit stoplights, we'll need to be very careful to avoid notice." "Right." There were a few traffic lights to negotiate, but both were solid green the entire time the runners and the pursuers were in view. The greater concern was the street lights near the intersections. Increasing their following distance once a traffic light became visible bought them some grace. They also took the risk of allowing the convoy to get out of view over a small rise while they waited just outside the pool of light before making the left at Park Ave. That was followed by mild panic until they could catch up with their quarry. A sweeping left turn awaited just over the crest. Dave spotted tail lights turning right as they finally hit a straight section. It turned out to be another curve in the road. This road had just enough curves to allow Livy to close the distance and remain unobserved. As the pursuing duo came around one curve, the convoy ahead was disappearing around the next. Just as they cleared a shallow 's' turn, Dave spotted tail lights disappearing to their right. "Ease up, I think we're going off onto a narrower road." By the time they reached the turn, Liv had them at an appropriate speed. No sign of the convoy ahead, and greater darkness with the trees closer in, she had to go slower. Fortunately, the road was winding through a few tight turns which caused the convoy to go even slower. They managed to catch sight of taillights and hear engine noises through the trees before they got close enough to be noticed. The asphalt took a gradual rightward curve, but a faint red glow inside the dust cloud ahead signaled the convoy had plunged ahead onto the dirt road. Hunter and unwitting prey slowed again, but the frequent braking and the scattering effect of the dust kept Dave and Liv well aware of their quarry's position. Liv coasted and maintained distance so she never had to touch the brake. To do so would reveal their pursuit. The convoy slowed further and Liv allowed the truck to coast to a stop. "Let's find a place to park this thing and dismount." Dave pointed off to a small pocket beside the road where the trees curved away from the dirt track. Each opened their door gingerly, sliding quietly to the wet grass. Liv and Dave first checked their own gear, then each other's. Satisfied they wore or carried everything they thought they would need, they eased the doors closed, latching them softly. "One benefit of this weather; the gators will be hibernating, and maybe the snakes too," Dave said in a whisper. "Brumating. And probably yes on both counts. The gators will be in the water, but the snakes will find a burrow or hollow log. So stay away from likely hidey holes." "Yes, professor." Dave's wry grin was both smart ass and respectful. Liv's nature knowledge far exceeded his own. Her reply smile was appreciative. Then both faces went blank as the two focused on their mission. Using every technique Carter had taught him, Dave slipped stealthily through the trees. Crouching, he moved swiftly from bole to bole, taking care to avoid rock piles and downed logs. The red glow in the distance was diminishing. He noticed sets of tail lights lining up side-by-side before extinguishing. They were parking. That was a good thing, because Dave and Liv were already on foot. That also meant the possibility of guards on the perimeter. Dave paused a bit longer in his position, searching for any sign of patrols or stationary sentinels. Seeing none, he dashed forward to a new location and watched again for any sign of an observer. Liv moved from her prior spot to the place Dave had just vacated. Morning twilight was in full swing, so the pair had good lighting. Periodically, Dave observed men moving to each vehicle, removing a woman, and leading her to one of the buildings. A few men guarded the vehicles, but their focus was on the occupants, not someone outside. All the better. Dave and Liv found themselves places within whisper distance a few feet back from the tree line. Unobstructed views with low probability of getting spotted. In better circumstances, they would observe for hours, from multiple positions around the clearing, gathering information and striking in the wee hours, or at first light tomorrow. But; those women being taken inside compelled faster action. Whatever these assholes were doing needed to be stopped. At the same time, they couldn't just rush in, or they'd lose, Dave would be dead, and Liv would be dead or worse. And not long after, the rest of his family would be in very dire straits. So don't fuck up, asshole . This had to be what Carter meant about walking the razor's edge. One thing was clear; these guys had no security posted. The pre-dawn twilight was sufficiently bright that someone looking out the window would spot them if they got stupid. The trees opened up into a large clearing. Within the open space sat the parked S U V, two large buildings, and several smaller ones. The two large buildings were corner adjacent and perpendicular on their long axes. They were somewhat longer than they were wide. The large building stretched wide across their eyeline seemed to be where everyone was gathered. That's the building the women had been taken into. Several others converged on that location not long after. About half an hour after the last man disappeared into the big building, Dave and Liv spotted someone leaving. He had someone over his shoulder. He headed for one of the smaller buildings. About five minutes later, it happened again. Time to communicate. He pulled out his phone, already set to silent, no vibration. Fortunately, he had a few bars. -Compound located. Track my location. Stuffing his phone in his pocket without waiting for a reply, Dave slid closer to his partner. "I'm going in closer. I'll get under the windows and listen in." Liv's face was unconvinced. "Is that wise?" "We need to know more before we do anything. I've got to get close enough to hear them. Get your rifle ready to snipe. Keep me covered. I'll pass on the outside of the first building," he pointed to the one that lay along their line of sight and perpendicular to the target building, "and then cross along the near wall of the one they're in. You'll be able to see me for most of that time, and you can see either end. You'll know if someone's about to come around and spot me." "We need Dad's low watt tactical radios." "If wishes were horses, hun." He gave her a quick kiss, then silently backed further into the trees. This allowed him to move more quickly without detection, though he still remained on alert for any sentries out here in the trees. There were none. Approaching the tree line again, he scanned thoroughly with eyes and ears, for any sign of someone that would spot him emerging. With still no sign, Dave dashed from the trees to the near wall of the likely empty large building. There he waited, listening for any sound suggesting he'd been seen. His heart was pounding. He worked to calm himself so he could hear anything over the roar of the blood in his ears. Of course, that could just be the contrast. This rural fall morning was incredibly quiet thus far. Satisfied he was as yet undetected, Dave moved stealthily to the far corner of the building. He put a hand on the wall, feeling the rough brick exterior. It was distinctly not new, but not decrepit either. A few short steps brought him to the building's corner. Using the 'slicing the pie' tactic Carter taught him so long ago; and re-taught over and over and over; Dave passed around the corner to find no one there. Hugging the wall, he crept by, pausing at each of the two doors, listening for any sign of occupancy. By the time he reached the end of the building near the occupied building, the sun was not yet up, but the sky was well-lit. As was the compound. With more on the line, Dave took more time with his pie-slicing cornering technique. The rest of the compound, then the side wall of the other building, and then the back wall of the target building came slowly into view, all devoid of other humans. He slid carefully along the sidewall of the empty building until he was near the corner closest to his target. With his head only he once more rounded the corner, verifying no one had entered the small area bounded by the two buildings on two sides in the time he'd been behind the first one. Sure that he was clear, he crossed the gap to the second building. He watched his footfalls carefully since the area conjoining the two buildings had been cemented in a rectangular shape. Postholes along the edges suggested this might be some sort of outdoor area with an awning during warmer times. A broom at the corner Dave was heading for suggested someone took the time to keep it clear of debris. At least he didn't have to worry about stepping on a twig. Dave heard a door open, then close. Footsteps in grass reached his ears but receded. He swiftly slid along the wall to the front of the building and took a cautious peek. Once again, a man was walking toward one of the smaller buildings, this time carrying a woman in his arms rather than over his shoulder. Dave eased himself away from that corner and back to the corner proximate to the back wall. He had to step carefully around the broom again as he came around to the semi-enclosed courtyard. Dave eased his way carefully along the back wall. At least now he had the benefit of knowing Liv could watch the area around him and cover him as needed. He crept carefully, listening for sounds through the wall. Primarily though, he knew his best chances were under the three windows, two of which were close together, more than halfway down the building's length. As he approached an exterior vent for a dryer, he paused. For a moment the thought flashed through his mind that this would be the ideal place for a snake to hide. Then his rational brain took over, reminding him that the intermittent nature was likely insufficient to help a snake survive through the winter. They were more likely off in the woods somewhere or hiding in the walls of one of the houses. The first window was just past the vent. Dave paused. He waited for a few minutes, but heard nothing. He edged up, his face upturned, his nose turned away from the building. Edging upward, he allowed his peripheral vision a first glimpse in the window. It was dark. He turned his head slowly, seeking greater detail. A few shadows and a small light on the back wall limned out an empty kitchen space for a community. Efficient, but a little too regimented for Dave's taste. A little too zombie group think. Dave moved forward. This time he skirted around a pile of small diameter metal pipes. Must be for a future irrigation project or outdoor faucet. The next window was only a few feet past the pile. Dave had to be careful how far out he went. He crouched and quickly got back to the wall once past the pipes. He could already hear voices. Someone was angry. "I said sit the fuck back down. You dumbasses cost us three men with your half-assed raid. No, you don't get a shot at any of the women from this raid. You're lucky we let you fucking live. One more fucking word out of your fucking mouth and I will shit-can all your asses. And you, big mouth, you'll go last; after I ass fuck your sister without a new dose! You can watch her melt like somebody poured battery acid in her shithole, then I'll kill you, with the memory of her screams in your fucking ears!" Dave went cold. His mind called up one of the videos about the dangers for a woman exposed to the semen of any man other than her partner. Anger welled up in him, but he tamped it down. A berserker rage banged against the walls of Dave's discipline. He held his focus, knowing he would only accomplish his goal with cold efficiency. All the things Carter said over the years, words that had been whirling in his ears since the moment of the break-in, all settled into cold clarity. Yeah, they were gonna die. In due time. He crept closer. Again taking care to avoid detection, Dave saw a woman select a syringe full of a vibrant green substance. She moved over to; a dead body on the floor? What the hell? Why is she injecting the dead guy? Wait, now it's purple inside? Maybe he just misidentified the earlier color? The woman with the syringe stood. A man dragged a blonde woman over to a table near the lady with the syringe. Dave heard her whimpering once she was close. A second man took the woman's other arm. The two men held her pinned, face down, against the table as her whimpering turned to active cries. Dave's stomach turned over. A third man pulled the woman's pajama pants down. She wore no panties. The woman with the syringe approached. The way she walked, and the look on her face, gave the impression she was walking to the gallows. Dave swore she mouthed the word 'Sorry' to the pinned woman before injecting her with the purple contents of her syringe. Immediately, the woman jerked and thrashed. The man behind her dropped his pants. Dave dropped low, not needing to see anymore. Hell, he'd seen far more than he ever wanted to. The cries and sounds he heard had a certain resonance with the priming and later imprinting orgasms of his partners. But overlaid with a guttural, raw emotionality. Then there was no more sound from the woman. A few low conversations between the men, and then Dave heard the door on the other side of the building open. Dave duck-walked away from the window and around the pipes. Once against the wall again he raised up a bit and paused. He needed to collect his thoughts. What to do was clear. Kill every man here. Given what they were doing, there were no innocents. The only questions revolved around how to do what needed to be done. Ideas formed in his head, but he needed to confer with Olivia. At the very least, she needed to know his intentions. Teamwork would be vital. He also trusted her judgment. Her input could prove useful. It often did. Something more about Olivia was rattling around the back of his head. A thought jumping up and down, demanding attention, but not coming forward. Like a word sitting on the tip of your tongue you just can't say. Something he knew, but wasn't fully acknowledging. It didn't seem related to the immediate task, so Dave moved his attention elsewhere. The number of trips from the large building to the smaller ones was very nearly the number of trips from the cars to the big building earlier. That meant soon the men would no longer be occupied with; what they had been doing. Since some had recently come back from a raid, they were likely to bed down soon. That would be a good time to strike. Time to move and communicate. The door had cycled twice more during Dave's thinking. As he rounded the corner of the empty building, free to move unobserved, he heard the door slam open. He froze in place, a few steps past the corner, where he could listen without being detected. Multiple footsteps approached, and sharp mutterings between two men. The footfalls changed as they crossed from the grass onto the concrete. Their voices became clearer too. "Why drag her all the way out here? It's fucking cold and wet." "'Cuz I don't wanna clean up the fucking mess when the old bitch slags, that's why! Grass will just eat it up and get nice and green next summer. Inside, the carpet and the fucking pad have to be replaced." Dave's blood boiled. He tamped it down for immediate purposes. He also started moving back the way he came. Weapon at the ready, he rounded the corner again. Three figures were just crossing off the concrete pad and back into the grass. Two males in hunter camo and a naked blonde woman sobbing as they dragged her between them. They stopped several steps off the pad. One man was out of view, the empty building blocking Dave's line of sight to him. Liv surely had a good shot on him, but she might not yet know enough to take it. She'd know soon enough though. The man Dave could see was turned away from Dave, with the woman collapsed, on her knees in front of him, looking away from Dave also. By their orientations, the man that was out of sight was probably facing the corner and would see Dave the instant he came around it. Fortune favors the brave . One of Carter's favorite phrases. Dave slipped the MP5 back behind him, on safe, he pulled the.22 pistol from his holster, and the silencer from his cargo pocket, mated them gently, and carefully began screwing the silencer in place. The woman cried out, pleading for mercy. Unseen by Dave, the second man slapped her, the sound unmistakable. Dave was moving as the slap echoed. His face etched in stone. No anger in his visage, no mercy in his eyes. His weapon came up smoothly as his feet accelerated him along the wall towards the man in his vision. Dave was now a fire and maneuver platform for the pistol. Just before he cleared the corner, he fired three rounds, all into the man's upper left back. His shot group was as perfect as the practices with Carter over the years. At least one of the rounds went through the man's heart. The suppressor dulled the sound of firing, and the subsonic ammunition avoided the supersonic crack of the rounds that would surely draw attention. The stricken man fell even as Dave came around the corner, rounding on the next target. That man was just beginning to look towards the corner with a curious expression. Dave fired again. Three rounds, just as Carter had trained him. He also dropped with no further resistance or sound. The first target was on the ground and the second descending, knees buckling beneath a falling torso, when the shuddering blonde woman registered the changes. She began to rise and turn around. Dave reached her at that same moment, grabbing her bicep and hauling her to her feet. To forestall undesirable attention, he shifted his hand from her arm to her mouth, clamping it shut. He got there just in time. The woman stared at him, terror in her wide-open eyes. He held his pistol low and to the side, but her eyes ping-ponged several times from it to his face. As frightened as she was, her eyes settled, then roved over his face. Within seconds her terror was held in check. Not gone but shoved aside. Like she was ready to believe something less evil than that of the other men's plans was now upon her. "Stay quiet, I need to get you out of here." She nodded. Wariness was present, but also a willingness to believe in; something. Grabbing her hand, Dave led her across the concrete pad and around the corner of the empty building. He didn't stop until they'd passed the length of the building, now leaning against the short wall, in full sight of Olivia. In pausing, Dave was reminded consciously of what his subconscious had of course noted; the woman wore not a stitch of clothing. He quickly averted his eyes, but not before registering her phenomenal figure. Granted, the condition of her skin on her face and her body indicated a woman with more than just a few decades of experience on this little ball of rock, but she was none the worse for wear by any means. Fit was an entirely apt description. Her tits had a natural sag, but still bore a certain firmness as well as a modest heft. And her eyes. Her eyes were captivating. Penetrating even. They stared at him from a gently rectangular face. Modestly arched eyebrows topped those gazing deep green orbs, and model perfect cheekbones provided a pedestal for those eyes to rest upon. Shapely, proportionate lips still trembled slightly beneath a nose that was not quite angular, and more than a button. Her face would fit in on a magazine cover or a boardroom. A face that could launch a thousand simps. "Let's get into the trees. My partner, Olivia, is waiting for us. Once we get away from prying eyes, we can give you something to cover up with. What's your name?"" Her face warmed briefly even as her arms instinctively moved to shield her tits. "Natasha." Her voice was unsteady, but not weak. "That way, Natasha." Dave pointed to a small gap between two young trees. Nothing he'd seen suggested she was a plant or any other kind of trap, but with only himself and Liv, he realized there was no room for fuck-ups. He spent much of his time walking sideways, keeping an eye to their rear. They entered the trees easily and without getting spotted. Natasha immediately slowed, picking her places to step more carefully with her bare feet on the woodland surface. They proceeded straight back from the buildings, in reverse of Dave's approach. He caught her arm when they reached the point to turn left towards Liv. Pointing quietly, Dave directed her on the new course. She nodded and kept moving. A few steps later, things started getting exciting. "Oh, holy Shit!" Even before his head turned, he knew the speaker was in the same vicinity as the two bodies he'd left behind. Through the intervening trees, Dave spotted a man standing in the gap between buildings. He safed the pistol and started unscrewing the silencer. There was no angle in stealth anymore. Once separated, the pistol went back in the holster and the silencer in his cargo pocket. He brought his MP5 back around. The man circled the two bodies slowly. Dave quietly moved closer to Liv, until they could see each other. With her attention on him, Dave drew his hand across his neck, then pointed at the man still examining the space where his friends had fallen. He heard the report of the rifle at nearly the same instant the back of the man's head sprouted a jet of blood and tissue. Dave hustled the last several steps to Liv's position. Liv gave him a wry smile as she looked behind him. "Recruiting more ladies, David?" As Dave began to object, her smile dropped. "I saw the whole thing. I didn't hear what was said, but they had it coming, that's for sure." "Yeah well, we need to get her warm and clothed. And still deal with these guys." "I've got spare clothes in the truck. Let her hide inside. At least get her out of the elements." Two men appeared, one on either end of the occupied building. Dave, Liv, and their charge were too deep in the trees for the men to spot. Besides, they were focused on the three bodies they could see. "Okay, I'm going to get her in sight of the truck, and then head down the backside of that building," Dave pointed to the empty building. "Got it. So, do I let these guys go back inside?" Do I tell her to take the shot? We're already all in here . Something in Dave went cold. "Once they turn back, take the shot." Liv merely nodded, her attention, earlier divided between her scope and Dave, was now fully downrange. Dave ushered Natasha along a tiny foot path, giving her some ease in foot placement. He tried to keep his eyes off her naked form, but when she jumped at Liv's first shot, the jostling of her tits was magnetic. He turned his eyes away quickly. Fortunately, he was able to spot the truck at this range. "We're going to have to work quickly to shut these guys down. Can you see that white patch through the trees?" Dave pointed in the direction he wanted her to look. Natasha nodded. "That's our truck. The door is unlocked. Get in there and get out of the wind. That will help you warm up some. Liv says she has a change of clothes behind the seat. Take a quick look to see if you can find a shirt or something. Then stay low, stay out of sight." The woman nodded again. "You are leaving me?" "I have to stop all of them before they hurt anyone else." Another shot rang out. She lunged at Dave, wrapping her arms around his neck. He was alarmed for just a moment, but he felt the shaking of her silent cries. She jolted again with the next shot. He gave her several seconds, then peeled her arms off of him. "I have to go." With that, he turned and hustled to a spot along the tree line proximate to the edge of the empty building. He was still covered by trees when he spotted a man moving toward him along the building. He's trying to flank Liv . Dave took up a firing position braced against a tree. Then he fired three rounds. The man dropped without a sound, though the shots echoed through the compound. Another crack from Liv's rifle announced her continued engagement with their opponents. If Dave didn't get engaged soon, they could overwhelm her. He sprinted across the gap and raced down the building's length. Another shot rang out. Dave reached the corner of the building, breathing hard, heart pounding. He heard feet slapping concrete and then go quiet. Swiftly turning the corner, he saw two men sprinting away, through the gap between buildings, and one more passing the other end of the building in the distance. Then another came around the corner near him, the follow-on to the two with their backs to him. He noticed Dave as Dave's SMG reached chest height. Dave's trigger finger pulled three times, smoothly, in quick succession. Three widely spaced red spots erupted on the man's chest. He fell against the wall and slid down. The man's weapon clattered to the concrete pad. Immediately, Dave shifted to the men headed away. One was beginning to turn. Dave fired on him first, this time with his weapon fully raised, taking aim and grouping his shots. Dave shifted to the second man that hadn't yet keyed on Dave's position behind him. With three rounds in his upper chest while running full tilt, the man tumbled to the ground. While Dave was taking out his targets, he'd registered two shots from Liv's rifle. That meant ten men in total they'd killed. But how many were there? At least ten, since the S U V had two men each. What Dave didn't know was how many were left behind to hold down the fort while the attackers were out. As he mulled over the issue, he dealt with two more immediate concerns. His weapon locked open on his last shot. He triggered the magazine release with his right, catching and removing the spent magazine with his left. Quickly, he stuffed the empty mag in his cargo pocket before pulling a fresh magazine from his tacvest. With a fresh magazine in place, he pressed the bolt release, driving a new round home. To be continued in part 11, Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts, for Literotica.

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Amanda Hall Psychic - December 30, 2025

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Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 27:50

Feeling It, Healing It - A Diary of Recovery: Entry #137 "December Reflections-Part 4 - Twas The Covid Before Christmas

Hollow9ine Network - The 9ine Line

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 68:41

The Hollow9ine Network returns with a special and experimental new program...For the past two years, Podcaster and Content Creator Dave "The Klone" Maresca has been missing in action - in a deep and complicated recovery from a traumatic life experience......after spending nearly 21 months navigating CPTSD and rebuilding his life in the aftermath of an abusive relationship - one that has left him in social and financial ruin and with a future of uncertainty, marred by constant anxiety and depression, his healing process has led to the creation of this living journal, as a means of chronicling his experiences......this program is created in hopes that the life lessons Dave is discovering can be a beacon to those who find themselves similarly lost at sea, in search of a light in the darkness...in search of the hope he, himself, has been searching for...Warning: This program contains true-life recollections of an actual person, that may involve content that some listeners may find disturbing or triggering. If you or someone you know is in need of professional medical and/or mental health assistance, The Hollow9ine Network implores you to seek out such assistance, and has provided links to resources that may be helpful here:CDC Mental Health Tools and Resources Index: https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/tools-resources/index.htmNational Suicide Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988Disclaimer: Dave "The Klone" Maresca is not a trained medical professional, psychologist, psychiatrist, or a licensed professional trained in providing therapeutic mental health care. This podcast is an account of his life experiences and meant to be just that. Any advice or suggestions made in the extemporaneous dialogue of the podcast is not intended to be medical or legal advice. If such advice is what you are seeking, you are encouraged to seek out the services of a licensed professional. The Hollow9ine Network and Dave Maresca assume no liability or responsibility for the information provided in these episodes. Support us on RedBubble:https://www.redbubble.com/people/Hollow9ine/shop?asc=u Follow us at... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hollow9ineNetwork/ Twitter: @Hollow9ineCast Instagram: @the_hollow9ine_network YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuwT8IxWRRI9I8hu2difvhg Email: hollow9inepodcast@gmail.comRead Dave's Blog on Medium: https://medium.com/@davetheklone

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Meditación para el TDAH: entrenar la atención

Meditaciones Mindfulness

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 12:03

#732 - Her Shamanic Awakening Will Change You! With Linda Star Wolf

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Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 61:33

EVEN MORE about this episode!Step into a powerful, mystical journey as Julie Ryan sits down with visionary elder and shamanic teacher Linda Star Wolf to explore how ancient shamanic wisdom can ignite profound transformation in your modern life. Linda shares riveting stories from her life path—her initiation into shamanic traditions, the teachings of her beloved mentor Grandmother Twila, and the life-changing experiences that shaped her creation of Shamanic Breathwork.You'll witness a moving ceremony led by Linda as she explains how breathwork, spiritual guides, and shamanic tools help us stay aligned, grounded, and connected to our soul's purpose. This episode invites you to remember your ancestral roots, awaken the shaman within, and experience the deep healing available when you reconnect with the Earth and your own inner wisdom.Guest Biography:Linda Star Wolf is a visionary teacher and shamanic guide who has spent more than 35 years helping others release dysfunctional patterns, awaken their inner visionary, and transform their lives. Beginning her career in mental health and addictions counseling, she draws from her own recovery journey as well as decades of training in shamanic and psychospiritual practices. She is the creator of Shamanic Breathwork®, co-creator of the Shamanic Healing Initiatory Process (SHIP), and founder of both the Venus Rising Association for Transformation and Venus Rising University for Shamanic Psychospiritual Studies. A prolific author and co-founder of Shamanic Mystery Tours, she leads seekers to sacred sites around the world while championing sacred activism and visionary leadership through the Shamanic Ministers Global Network. Inspired by mentors such as Stan Grof, Jacquelyn Small, and Seneca Wolf Clan elder Grandmother Twylah Nitsch—who adopted her as a Spiritual Granddaughter—Star Wolf has been widely featured in national media and continues to guide thousands through profound spiritual awakening and embodied transformation.Episode Chapters:01:02 Meet Linda Star Wolf: Visionary Elder01:50 Ceremony with Star Wolf09:08 Star Wolf's Journey and Teachings14:04 Understanding Shamanism17:02 The Concept of the Aquarian Shaman19:14 Star Wolf's Grandmother and Wolf Pack22:37 The Encounter with Grandmother Twila29:17 Breath Work and Spiritual Visions31:45 A Life-Changing Meditation Experience32:40 A Psychic Encounter and Sobriety Journey34:09 Introduction to Breath Work35:00 The Influence of Leonard Orr and Rebirthing36:20 A Mystical Journey to Egypt38:53 Channeling ISIS and Spiritual Awakening47:24 Building a Spiritual Community in North Carolina51:12 Daily Practices for Spiritual Alignment56:57 The Purpose of Incarnation➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Español YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Português YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Deutsch YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Français YouTube✏️Ask Julie a Question!

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Preview | NM Talkcore: Jay Springett on "Slop Machines of Loving Grace" (2025)

New Models Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 19:01

You've heard us reference the work of Jay Springett (aka @thejaymo) on nearly every pod this year — so with his new book Slop Machines of Loving Grace near completion, we invited Jay on the show to chat through some of its themes. The book takes 2008 as a breaking point, a moment where the late-20th century financial system imploded and, in its place, society was given a new operating system: one optimized for exocapitalism and shaped by “smartness,” a forceful symbiosis of finance and software. On the ep, we discuss the rise of American “code-spaces” (e.g., apps, platforms, etc) and hyper-fragmented “data subjects” taking the place of the modern “individual.” "What happens,” Lil Internet asks, “when AI agents become not just tools but inhabitants of the world of human culture? Chat with an Oct 2025 draft Jay's book's here: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-68d150abe8008191b27383697808eed9-slop-machines Follow/subscribe/listen to more of Jay's work at https://thejaymo.net See also: NM85 | Jay Springett on “Worlds” as Medium (2024)

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134: Lost at White Wolf - The Disappearance of Peter Jackson

Off the Trails

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 46:06 Transcription Available

Yosemite is a place people go to disappear into nature. Granite walls, endless forests, and trails that seem to stretch forever. But for some, disappearing quickly changes to missing. And in September of 2016, that's what happened to one hiker. A remote campground. A solo hike. And no answers. This is the story of Peter Fancher Jackson.Sources:NamUs, NPS, Charley Project, Your Central Valley, Reddit, Medium, More Than Just Parks, YouTube - Northern Crimes, YouTube - The Missing EnigmaSupport us on Patreon for as little as $1 a month, with benefits starting at the $3 tier!Follow us on Instagram at offthetrailspodcastFollow us on Facebook at Off the Trails PodcastIf you have your own outdoor misadventure (or adventure) story that you'd like us to include in a listener episode, send it to us at offthetrailspodcast@gmail.com Please take a moment to rate and review our show, and a big thanks if you already have!**We do our own research and try our best to cross-reference reliable sources to present the most accurate information we can. Please reach out to us if you believe we have mispresented any information during this episode, and we will be happy to correct ourselves in a future episode.

Guided Whispers - December 30, 2025

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Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 13:45

Beyond The Loss - December 30, 2025

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 29:02

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Oracle Buffet - December 30, 2025

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 13:48

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Has Lightning Quietly Succeeded? with Nate (Beeforbacon) | SLP708

Stephan Livera Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 80:07

In this conversation, I discuss with Nate the current state and future prospects of the Lightning Network as of December 2025. They explore various aspects such as payment success rates, public perception versus practitioner insights, routing fees, centrality in nodes, yield opportunities, privacy considerations, and the overall adoption of the Lightning Network. The discussion highlights the improvements made over the years, the economic incentives for node operators, and the importance of community-driven initiatives in shaping the future of the Lightning Network.=Takeaways:

Amboss, the Lightning Network And Bitcoin Becoming A Medium Of Exchange. - Jesse Shrader. #584

Once BITten!

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 64:39

What is the future of the Bitcoin Lighning Network? $ BTC 87,731 Block Height 929,852 Today's guest on the show is Jesse Shrader, co-founder of Amboss. Buh, buh, who will build the roads? What government job did Jesse do before finding Bitcoin? How has he navigated the growth of the Lightning Network, the Layer 2 fud of last year and what is the future for Amboss? Why is it inevitable that bitcoin will become a medium of exchange? Key Topics: Lightning Network functionality and potential Layer 2 solutions and their impact on Bitcoin Amboss' role in the Lightning Network ecosystem Bitcoin as a medium of exchange The challenges and debates surrounding Bitcoin development Thank you to Jesse for coming on the show and wishing everyone a happy 2026! Find Jesse here: X - @Jestopher_BTC NOSTR - npub19tcpurtt6xulhw0r6sc404j9jraj0h8me2lzs7z2tqewz7l0hpas59nlea Check out my book ‘Choose Life' - https://bitcoinbook.shop/search?q=prince Pleb Service Announcements: Join 19 thousand Bitcoiners on @cluborange https://signup.cluborange.org/co/princey Support the pod via @fountain_app -https://fountain.fm/show/2oJTnUm5VKs3xmSVdf5n CONFERENCES: BTC PRAGUE - 11th - 13th June 2026 http://btcprg.me/BITTEN - Use code BITTEN for - 10% Shills and Mench's: RELAI - STACK SATS - www.relai.me/Bitten Use Code BITTEN BITBOX - SELF CUSTODY YOUR BITCOIN - www.bitbox.swiss/bitten Use Code BITTEN PAY WITH FLASH. Accept Bitcoin on your website or platform with no-code and low-code integrations. https://paywithflash.com/ SWAN BITCOIN - www.swan.com/bitten GEYSER - fund bitcoin projects you love - https://geyser.fund/ PLEBEIAN MARKET - BUY AND SELL STUFF FOR SATS; https://plebeian.market/ @PlebeianMarket ZAPRITE - https://zaprite.com/bitten - Invoicing and accounting for Bitcoiners - Save $40 KONSENSUS NETWORK - Buy bitcoin books in different languages. Use code BITTEN for 10% discount - https://bitcoinbook.shop?ref=bitten SEEDOR STEEL PLATE BACK-UP - @seedor_io use the code BITTEN for a 5% discount. www.seedor.io/BITTEN SATSBACK - Shop online and earn back sats! https://satsback.com/register/5AxjyPRZV8PNJGlM HEATBIT - Home Bitcoin mining - https://www.heatbit.com/?ref=DANIELPRINCE - Use code BITTEN. CRYPTOTAG STEEL PLATE BACK-UP https://cryptotag.io - USE CODE BITTEN for 10% discount. ALL FURTHER LINKS HERE - FOR DISCOUNTS AND OFFERS - https://vida.page/princey - https://linktr.ee/princey21m

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Choose Love Now - Real Connection with Nicholas Adkins

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 32:22

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Nicholas Adkins, founder of Pink Socks Life, to unpack a simple but high impact idea. Show up with love and kindness in each now. Nick shares how a pair of knee high pink socks turned into an organic global kindness movement. From healthcare conferences to everyday moments on a bus or in a grocery line, the core message stays the same. Real connection beats nonstop connectivity. You will also hear a practical reset for caregivers and high performers who pour into everyone else. Start with self love. Then use small human moments to build the muscle of compassion, presence, and empathy. About the Guest: Nicholas Adkins is the founder of Pink Socks Life, a nonprofit based in Portland, Oregon. He is also the author of Pink Socks. How a Pair of Socks Became a Symbol of Love and Connection. Over 300,000 pairs of pink socks have been gifted worldwide as a signal for belonging, kindness, and human connection. Key Takeaways: Pink Socks Life started as a simple conference strategy. Gift fun pink socks. Start conversations. Build real relationships that scale into community. The “movement” became organic when strangers in places like the Netherlands and Wales sourced pink socks to support health causes and connection. “Heartspeak” is what happens when you slow down, look someone in the eyes, and make space for their story with empathy and no judgment. Connection is different from connectivity. Phones, apps, and social platforms are tools. Real connection is presence, listening, and shared humanity. Kindness is not soft. It is operational leadership. One sincere conversation can shift a room, a workplace culture, or a hospital hallway. Love and fear show up in every moment. You choose. Love looks like compassion, patience, forgiveness, and cooperation. Fear looks like anger and shame. The real gift is not the socks. The real gift is holding space for another human, especially when they are carrying grief or struggle. If you are great at caring for others but bad at caring for yourself, start with one micro habit. Give yourself grace. Then practice love in low stakes moments. End of day reflection builds self awareness. Where did I choose love today. Where did I miss it. What will I try in the next now. How Listeners Can Connect With the Guest: Website and book: https://pinksocks.life/ TED talk: Available on the pinksocks.life homepage Instagram: PinkSocks Life LinkedIn: Nicholas Adkins (A D K I N S) Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty. storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate. this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on: Mental Health & Emotional Well-being Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth Holistic Healing & Conscious Living Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters. Subscribe and be part of this healing journey. Contact Brand: Healthy Mind By Avik™ Email: www.healthymindbyavik.com Based in: India & USA Open to collaborations, guest appearances, coaching, and strategic partnerships. Let's connect to create a ripple effect of positivity. CHECK PODCAST SHOWS & BE A GUEST: Listen our 17 Podcast Shows Here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Be a guest on our other shows: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/beaguest Video Testimonial: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/testimonials Join Our Guest & Listener Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ OUR SERVICES Business Podcast Management - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/corporatepodcasting/ Individual Podcast Management - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/Podcasting/ Share Your Story With World - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/shareyourstory STAY TUNED AND FOLLOW US! Medium - https://medium.com/@contentbyavik YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymindbyavik Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind Linkedin Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthymindbyavik LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/podhealthclub Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/Avikpodhealth/ SHARE YOUR REVIEW Share your Google Review - https://www.podpage.com/bizblend/reviews/new/ Share a video Testimonial and it will be displayed on our website -https://famewall.healthymindbyavik.com/ Because every story matters and yours could be the one that lights the way! #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #HealthyMindByAvik #MentalHealthAwareness #comedypodcast #truecrimepodcast #historypodcast, #startupspodcast #podcasthost #podcasttips, #podcaststudio #podcastseries #podcastformentalhealth #podcastforentrepreneurs, #podcastformoms #femalepodcasters, #podcastcommunity #podcastgoals #podcastrecommendations #bestpodcast, #podcastlovers, #podcastersofinstagram #newpodcastalert #podcast #podcasting #podcastlife #podcasts #spotifypodcast #applepodcasts #podbean #podcastcommunity #podcastgoals #bestpodcast #podcastlovers #podcasthost #podcastseries #podcastforspeakers #StorytellingAsMedicine #PodcastLife #PersonalDevelopment #ConsciousLiving #GrowthMindset #MindfulnessMatters #VoicesOfUnity #InspirationDaily #podcast #podcasting #podcaster #podcastlife #podcastlove #podcastshow #podcastcommunity #newpodcast #podcastaddict #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastinglife #podrecommendation #wellnesspodcast #healthpodcast #mentalhealthpodcast #wellbeing #selfcare #mentalhealth #mindfulness #healthandwellness #wellnessjourney #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #healthandwellnesspodcast #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #viral #trending #tiktok #tiktokviral #explore #trendingvideo #youtube #motivation #inspiration #positivity #mindset #selflove #success

If You're Alive, Your Mission Isn't Finished: Vital Aging with Purpose with David McNally

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 25:38

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with bestselling author and keynote speaker David McNally to explore what it truly means to age with vitality. David reframes “successful aging” away from surface markers like money or staying busy, and toward something deeper: rich life experiences, meaningful contribution, and a compelling reason to get up each morning. He shares how many people feel lost after retirement because their sense of relevance was validated externally—through meetings, emails, and titles—until it suddenly disappears. The remedy, he explains, is finding relevance from within by rediscovering mission, gifts, and service. David offers grounded, practical ways to reconnect with purpose: reflect on what inspires you, who inspires you, and what fulfills you, then choose where your talents can add value. He also challenges the “too old” mindset, emphasizing that creativity expires only when we do—and that the brain and imagination can keep expanding. Finally, he highlights acceptance and peace of mind as essential to aging well, and recommends simple daily habits like journaling, reading something uplifting, and doing one small act to improve someone else's day. About the Guest: David McNally is a bestselling author (Even Eagles Need a Push, Be Your Own Brand, and If You Are Alive, Your Mission on Earth Isn't Finished), award-winning documentary producer, and Speaker's Hall of Fame member. His work focuses on purpose, resilience, and human potential, shaped by profound personal loss and his own health journey. Key Takeaways: Measure success by experiences, meaning, and relationships—not just achievements. Purpose is a “reason to get up,” especially after work life ends. Retirement can trigger a relevance gap; rebuild relevance from the inside out. Ask: What inspires me? Who inspires me? What fulfills me? Creativity doesn't expire with age—growth is still available. Acceptance creates peace of mind: control what you can, release what you can't. Daily habits: journal/reflect, read uplifting material, move toward a goal, help someone. How Listeners Can Connect With the Guest: Website: https://www.davidmcnally.com/ Books: EVEN EAGLES NEED A PUSH, THE EAGLE'S SECRET and BE YOUR OWN BRAND (available on Amazon.com)Socials: Instagram Linkedin YouTube Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty. storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate. this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on: • Mental Health & Emotional Well-being • Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth • Holistic Healing & Conscious Living • Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 6000+ episodes and 200K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

Police Shot By A Mass Murderer, She Survived.

Kaleidoscope of Possibilities

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 36:09

Police Shot by a Mass Murderer: She Survived and the City's Response Shocked Her. Special Episode. The phrase line of duty often feels abstract, until a single moment changes everything. For former Richmond, Virginia police officer Cheryl Ann Nici-O'Connell, that moment came in October of 1984, when a routine off-duty assignment turned into a life-altering ambush by a fugitive mass murderer. Look for The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. Now, decades later, her story is being shared in a special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available across Facebook, Instagram, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, and most major podcast platforms. It's not just as a story of survival, but as a powerful account of resilience, recovery, and a troubling response from the very city she served. Supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . An Ordinary Shift That Became a Nightmare At just 24 years old, Officer Cheryl Nici-O'Connell was working an off-duty uniformed job at the Richmond Marriott Hotel on a Friday night, hoping to earn some extra income. At the same time, law enforcement across the Richmond area was urgently searching for a suspect wanted in a triple murder and the attempted murder of a sheriff's deputy. Police Shot by a Mass Murderer: She Survived and the City's Response Shocked Her. Special Episode. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms. Unknowingly, Nici-O'Connell came face-to-face with that very fugitive. “I was ambush attacked and shot in the head from three-to-five feet away by a total stranger,” she recalled. The gunman aimed directly at her temple, firing a .357 Magnum loaded with a .38-caliber round. The bullet entered her face, tore through her mouth, and lodged just an eighth of an inch from her carotid artery. Doctors did not expect her to survive the night. “It Looked Like Red Paint Was Being Poured Over Everything” The moments after the shooting are forever etched into her memory. “The next thing I know, I heard a loud explosion,” she said. “I looked toward Broad Street, and everything was blurry. It looked like someone was pouring red paint over a picture of Broad Street.” Police Shot by a Mass Murderer: She Survived and the City's Response Shocked Her. Special Episode. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. Against all odds, she lived. Her survival, she says, was not hers alone. “I'm here to tell you if it was not for the support of the police officers I worked with, and also the Richmond community, I would not be here today.” That support, from fellow officers and everyday citizens, stood in stark contrast to what followed. The Aftermath: Survival Was Only the Beginning While Cheryl Nici-O'Connell fought through a long and painful recovery, she also faced what she describes as shocking treatment by city government after the shooting. In the podcast interview, she speaks candidly about the challenges that came not from the gunshot wound, but from navigating a system that failed to fully support a wounded officer. Police Shot by a Mass Murderer: She Survived and the City's Response Shocked Her. Special Episode. The special episode can be found on The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and across most podcast platforms where listeners will find authentic law enforcement stories. Her attacker was eventually arrested, tried, and sentenced to multiple life terms. Yet the trauma never truly ended. In 2002, and nearly every year since, Nici-O'Connell has been required to relive the attack during parole hearings. “I wish I could forget,” she said quietly. Turning Pain Into Purpose Today, Cheryl Nici-O'Connell is retired from law enforcement but far from finished serving. She is actively involved with Richmond United for Law Enforcement, an organization founded on January 2, 2015, dedicated to bringing together law enforcement and the Metro Richmond and Tri-Cities communities of Virginia. Police Shot by a Mass Murderer: She Survived and the City's Response Shocked Her. Special Episode. The full podcast episode is streaming now on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Her story, shared through interviews, public speaking, and now this special podcast episode, stands as a reminder of the real human cost behind the badge, and the responsibility cities have to care for those who put their lives on the line. “I still work to help others,” she says, a testament to a resilience forged in unimaginable circumstances. A Story That Still Matters Cheryl Nici-O'Connell's journey is not just about surviving a bullet fired by a mass murderer. It is about accountability, compassion, and the long road officers walk after the headlines fade. Police Shot by a Mass Murderer: She Survived and the City's Response Shocked Her. Special Episode. Her full story can be heard on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, streaming now on Facebook, Instagram, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube and most major podcast platforms. It's a special episode that confronts the realities of service, sacrifice, and survival head-on. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. Be sure to follow us on X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. Listeners can tune in on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform and follow updates on Facebook, Instagram, and other major News outlets. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. You can help contribute money to make the Gunrunner Movie . The film that Hollywood won't touch. It is about a now Retired Police Officer that was shot 6 times while investigating Gunrunning. He died 3 times during Medical treatment and was resuscitated. You can join the fight by giving a monetary “gift” to help ensure the making of his film at agunrunnerfilm.com . Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. Be sure to check out our website . Police Shot by a Mass Murderer: She Survived and the City's Response Shocked Her. Special Episode. Attributions WRIC WWBT WFXR TV Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

spotify hollywood apple news doctors police medical medium pinterest richmond imdb law enforcement survived magnum simplecast unknowingly broad street blogspot tri cities mass murderers gunrunning metro richmond

EP 123 – The Somatic Path to Forgiveness with Sharon Laflamme

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 46:38

To watch the video of this episode, please go to: https://youtu.be/u34-haBpeKM How does childhood trauma get stuck in our nervous system and manifest as physical illness? Is it possible to truly forgive and let go without bypassing the pain or condoning the behavior? What simple, body-based tools can we use to regulate our emotions and find peace in a chaotic world? Join Dr. Adriana Popescu in another empowering episode of Kaleidoscope of Possibilities: Alternative Perspectives on Mental Health. In this episode, Dr. Adriana sits down with Sharon Laflamme, a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Yoga Teacher, and founder of Creating Serenity Now. Sharon shares her powerful personal journey of healing from childhood trauma and chronic health issues, revealing how she moved from merely surviving to thriving. Together, they dive deep into the mechanics of the nervous system, the importance of somatic awareness, and Sharon's unique approach to forgiveness as a path to ultimate freedom and self-love. In this episode: Trauma and the Body: Understanding that trauma is not in the event itself, but in how it gets locked in the nervous system Somatic Experiencing: How this modality helps "complete" the fight-or-flight cycle and restore balance to the body The Empath's Journey: Navigating the world when you feel everyone else's emotions and learning to differentiate "mine" from “theirs" Polyvagal Theory Simplified: A look at the vagus nerve and practical ways to move out of "freeze" states into connection and safety The Art of Forgiveness: Why forgiveness is often misunderstood and how Sharon's course, "Making Friends with Forgiveness," reframes it as an act of self-liberation Gut-Brain Connection: Exploring the link between early trauma, nervous system dysregulation, and digestive health Practical Tools: Breathing techniques and simple exercises to self-regulate and create internal serenity now Resources Mentioned: Sharon's Website: CreatingSerenityNow.com Online Course: MakingFriendsWithForgiveness.com Sharon's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SharonLaflamme Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748 About Sharon: Meet Sharon Laflamme. Facilitator/founder of Creating Serenity Now LLC. She has taken her life's passions of human behavior, health, nutrition, yoga, meditation and incorporated them into creating an internal space for healing. Healing herself and others has been a lifelong passion. Her journey through childhood trauma created a need to heal, and as an empath, that meant everyone she was in contact with. She became a certified Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner, where she helps transform pain into peace, where trauma symptoms resolve, and clients feel integrated and whole. Vitality is restored, clients finally feel at home in their bodies. She works with people with childhood trauma, resolving the many health issues that present, due to the nervous system's dysregulation. She is a seeker of knowledge & evolution, a certified Kripalu yoga teacher, with a Associates Degree in Chemical Dependency, Online course creator: Making Friends With Forgiveness; The Art of Letting Go, member of the Polyvagal Institute, Ayurvedic/Functional medicine advocate, a summit presenter, YouTube creator, podcast guest speaker and she is on the board of LoveMakers Foundation. “Forgiveness is the highest form of self-love. It's about cutting the cord that drains your energy.” – Sharon Would you like to continue this conversation and connect with other people who are interested in exploring these topics? Please join us on our Facebook group! (https://www.facebook.com/groups/kaleidoscopeofpossibilitiespodcast/) About your host: Dr. Adriana Popescu is a clinical psychologist, addiction and trauma specialist, author, speaker and empowerment coach who is based in San Francisco, California and practices worldwide. She is the author of the book, What If You're Not As F***ed Up As You Think You Are? For more information on Dr. Adriana, her sessions and classes, please visit: https://adrianapopescu.org/ To find the book please visit: https://whatifyourenot.com/ To learn about her trauma treatment center Firebird Healing, please visit the website: https://www.firebird-healing.com/ You can also follow her on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAdrianaPopescu/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dradrianapopescu/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriana-popescu-ph-d-03793 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCflL0zScRAZI3mEnzb6viVA TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dradrianapopescu? Medium: https://medium.com/@dradrianapopescu Disclaimer: This podcast represents the opinions of Dr. Adriana Popescu and her guests. The content expressed therein should not be taken as psychological or medical advice. The content here is for informational or entertainment purposes only. Please consult your healthcare professional for any medical or treatment questions. This website or podcast is not to be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in any legal sense or as a basis for legal proceedings or expert witness testimony. Listening, reading, emailing, or interacting on social media with our content in no way establishes a client-therapist relationship.

#731 - Heal Ancestral Patterns You Didn't Know You Had! With Phillip Mountrose

spirituality humanity heal medium awakening patterns psychic self improvement everyday life santa barbara ancestral spiritual healing comand ancestral healing julie ryan

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2025 56:38

EVEN MORE about this episode!What if tuning into your soul could transform the way you move through the world? In this inspiring conversation, holistic healing pioneer Phillip Mountrose joins Julie to reveal how spiritual wisdom can become a practical, everyday superpower. From simple techniques for people who struggle with meditation to recognizing subtle intuitive cues, Phillip offers accessible pathways for awakening your inner guidance—no matter your learning style.Julie shares a powerful story from a Santa Barbara retreat, where an ordinary deck of oracle cards sparked deep self-reflection and unexpected insight. Together, they explore how staying curious, playful, and open allows life's “small moments” to become profound turning points on your spiritual journey.Finally, step into the transformative realms of spiritual and ancestral healing. Phillip explains how tools like muscle testing, spiritual kinesiology, and epigenetic awareness help uncover hidden beliefs and patterns rooted in generations past. You'll also get an inside look at the Awakenings Institute and its holistic programs designed to support soul-level growth. This episode invites you to expand your intuition, heal your lineage, and discover how spiritual practices can elevate your everyday life.Guest Biography:Phillip Mountrose and his wife Jane are pioneers in spiritual growth, holistic healing, and energy medicine, known for their transformative coaching, trainings, and numerous books—including their newest release, Awakening to Your Magnificence: Your Journey Into the Next New Frontier for Humanity. Through Awakenings Institute, their non-profit organization, they champion a mission of honoring each individual's unique gifts and helping them blossom into their highest potential. Through their deep spiritual coaching, healing sessions, and practical tools for awakening, Phillip and Jane empower people to become their own spiritual guides and create lives filled with purpose, intuition, and conscious connection.Episode Chapters:(0:00:01) - Spiritual Wisdom Made Practical(0:10:57) - Embracing Wonders in Everyday Life(0:18:16) - Exploring Spiritual Healing With Oracles(0:26:35) - Exploring Beliefs and Ancestral Healing(0:34:04) - Awakening to Elemental Wisdom(0:44:58) - Healing Through Pure Potential(0:49:58) - Spiritual Healing and Divinity Degrees➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Español YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Português YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Deutsch YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Français YouTube✏️Ask Julie a Question!

Trauma Healing Science vs Wellness Myths with Dr. Christal Badour

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2025 21:03

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sayan sits down with Dr. Christal L. Badour to cut through the internet noise around trauma healing. They break down what actually happens in the brain and body during trauma. Why memory can show up as vivid snapshots with gaps. And why that is a survival feature, not a personal defect. Dr. Badour also explains how to spot credible healing information in a world full of “pretty but flimsy” wellness content. She points listeners to research-backed sources like global and national trauma organizations, then adds a grounded take on generative AI. It can help you find reputable resources, but it is not a replacement for real clinical care or human connection. The conversation closes with a practical shift. Trauma-informed environments change everything. Families, workplaces, and communities can support recovery by moving from “what's wrong with you” to “what happened to you” and “what do you need.” About the Guest: Dr. Christal L. Badour is a licensed clinical psychologist, researcher, and founder of Science for Survivors. She has led federally funded research on PTSD and substance use, trains clinicians, and translates paywalled research into real-world language survivors and communities can use. Key Takeaways: Trauma responses start during the event. Your brain's #1 KPI is survival, not comfort. The limbic system ramps up fast. The amygdala helps drive threat detection and intense emotions. Trauma memories can store as sharp snapshots with gaps. That is common and not “proof” you are broken. Confusion after trauma is often the brain reviewing threat data, not weakness or failure. Online healing content can look credible because production quality is not evidence. Packaging is not peer review. Start with research-grounded hubs like the World Health Organization and major trauma education networks. Evidence-based tools and spiritual reflection can coexist. Real humans do not heal in tidy categories. Generative AI can act like an advanced search engine for credible sources. It should not replace therapists or care teams. Trauma and substance use often intersect. Coping via substances is not a moral failing, but it can become harmful over time. Trauma-informed workplaces improve outcomes. Shift from blame to support and psychological safety. How Listeners Can Connect With the Guest Website: http://www.scienceforsurvivors.com/ Explore Dr. Badour's blog on trauma recovery science. You can also find details on her services and professional work there. Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM . Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty. storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate. this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on: • Mental Health & Emotional Well-being • Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth • Holistic Healing & Conscious Living • Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

Police Husband was Killed in a Helicopter Crash.

The Unforget Yourself Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2025 38:53

Police Husband was Killed in a Helicopter Crash. Special Episode. The life of a police family is built on service, sacrifice, and an unspoken understanding that every shift carries risk.For Keira Knox, that reality became devastatingly real on May 2, 2020, when her police officer husband, Jason Knox, was killed in a police helicopter crash in Texas. What followed was not just the loss of a husband, but the beginning of a journey that would redefine her life and ultimately inspire her to help countless other first responder families. This special episode is streaming for free on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform Jason Knox served with the Houston Police Department as a helicopter tactical flight officer. Aviation units are often called into the most complex and dangerous situations, providing eyes in the sky during critical incidents. On that day, the helicopter unit was requested to assist in a search for two bodies believed to be located in the area. It was a mission that, like so many others, seemed routine to those trained to respond. Look for The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. During the operation, the helicopter developed a mechanical issue. Despite the experience and professionalism of the crew, the aircraft went down. The crash claimed Jason Knox's life in the line of duty, instantly altering the lives of his family, colleagues, and the entire law enforcement community. Supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . For Keira Knox, the moments after the crash are etched into her memory. The notification, that no police spouse ever wants to experience, marked the dividing line between life before and life after. “You don't realize how final everything becomes in that moment,” she has shared. “Nothing prepares you for being told the person you love isn't coming home.” Police Husband was Killed in a Helicopter Crash. Special Episode In the days that followed, Keira found herself navigating shock, grief, and a flood of questions, all while trying to process the magnitude of her loss. The funeral brought its own weight, honor guards, uniforms, bagpipes, and a sea of blue that represented respect, tradition, and sacrifice. While the ceremony honored Jason's service, it also underscored the permanence of his absence. Like many families of fallen officers, Keira quickly discovered that while departments are trained for emergencies, families are often left to navigate unfamiliar territory alone once the initial support fades. Paperwork, benefits, decisions, emotional trauma, and the expectations of “being strong” arrive all at once. “There is no handbook handed to you when your police husband is killed,” Keira has said. “You're expected to figure it out while you're barely able to breathe.” Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms. As time passed, grief evolved. The raw pain softened into a deeper realization: the system was not designed with families in mind. Keira began to see gaps, not just emotionally, but practically, in how first responder families are supported after a line-of-duty death. That awareness became the catalyst for her next chapter. Rather than allowing loss to define her solely as a widow, Keira chose to transform her pain into purpose. Drawing directly from her own experience, she became involved in writing The Guide for first responder families and departments. The resource was created to provide clarity during chaos, offering guidance on what families may face immediately after a tragedy and in the months and years that follow. Police Husband was Killed in a Helicopter Crash. Special Episode. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. The guide addresses topics many families don't even know to ask about: notification procedures, funeral planning, navigating benefits, managing media attention, coping with trauma, and preparing departments to better support surviving spouses and children. “If I had something like this when Jason died, it would have made an impossible situation slightly more manageable,” Keira explained. Her advocacy did not stop there. Keira also became deeply involved with the Blue Bow Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting first responder families. The foundation's mission aligns closely with her own, ensuring that families are not forgotten once the headlines fade and the uniforms are put away. Through her work with the Blue Bow Foundation, Keira has connected with families across Texas and beyond who share similar stories of sudden loss. Each conversation reinforces why this work matters. “Every family's story is different,” she says, “but the pain, confusion, and isolation are often the same.” The special episode can be found on The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and across most podcast platforms where listeners will find authentic law enforcement stories. Keira Knox has also chosen to share her journey publicly, using Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms to raise awareness and build community. Her openness has resonated with people far beyond the law enforcement world, offering insight into the realities faced by first responder families. Her story has been featured in the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast available on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and other podcast platforms. By speaking openly, Keira helps humanize the statistics and remind audiences that behind every line-of-duty death is a family left to rebuild their life. Police Husband was Killed in a Helicopter Crash. Special Episode. The full podcast episode is streaming now on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Throughout her journey, Keira continues to honor Jason Knox's legacy. She speaks not only as a widow, but as a wife who loved deeply, a mother navigating life after loss, and an advocate determined to make sure other families are better supported than she was. “Jason believed in service and protecting others,” Keira has shared. “The work I do now is my way of continuing that mission.” Her journey is a powerful reminder that while a police helicopter crash ended Jason Knox's life, it did not end the impact he would have on others. Through Keira's strength, vulnerability, and commitment to change, his legacy lives on, offering guidance, hope, and support to first responder families who never expected to need it, but now desperately do. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. In sharing her story, Keira Knox ensures that the conversation does not stop at tragedy. Instead, it becomes a call to action, to prepare, to support, and to stand by the families who stand behind those who serve. Be sure to check out our website . Be sure to follow us on X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. Listeners can tune in on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform and follow updates on Facebook, Instagram, and other major News outlets. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. You can help contribute money to make the Gunrunner Movie . The film that Hollywood won't touch. It is about a now Retired Police Officer that was shot 6 times while investigating Gunrunning. He died 3 times during Medical treatment and was resuscitated. You can join the fight by giving a monetary “gift” to help ensure the making of his film at agunrunnerfilm.com . Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. Police Husband was Killed in a Helicopter Crash. Special Episode. Attributions ODMP City of Houston Guidestar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Quaranteam - Dave In Dallas: Part 7

ExplicitNovels

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2025

Quaranteam - Dave In Dallas: Part 7 What the hell was that? Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels. The ladies all mingled quietly as they awaited the appearance of the teens. Lupie of course, made extras of the appetizers, plus a few extra finger foods, so the rest of the family wasn't held up for a meal, but Lupie and Mel didn't have to make 'prom dinner' for everyone. At last, they heard footsteps descending the stairs. When the sounds reached the point the stairs peeked beyond the partial wall in the back of the living room, the first thing they spotted was shimmering metallic medium blue cloth that nearly reached the step the foot rested on. Becca's nerd-pale feet and ankles clad in low-heeled strappy sandals was enough to identify her, if they hadn't already known the order the girls were arriving. A bit more intriguing was the amount of her right leg, on the opposite side of her body from the adults, was visible. As she descended, more leg was in view. Each step down exposed more leggy flesh. By the time Rebecca's torso could be seen, it was obvious the skirt of her dress had been slit all the way to her hip. She turned at the last landing before the final three steps. Her short height meant she was fully visible to all as she paused. The dress was very flattering. Spaghetti straps over her shoulders held up the top, and a plunging neckline left no opportunity for a bra. Yet, some miracle of undergarment managed to give her small tits just a hint of cleavage; enough to enhance the femininity of her look on this special night. Small diamond stud earrings completed her ensemble. Becca had been letting her hair grow longer, after learning Dave leaned toward long hair. Her naturally blonde hair reached a few inches past her shoulders when straight. It was a bit shorter than that at the moment as bands of joined hair strands fell in loose curls from her head. As Dave suspected on Becca's descent, the skirt gathered just above Becca's right hip, leaving her entire right leg exposed. "I think someone got the memo that Dave is a leg man." Liv muttered. There was light laughter following the comment, but Dave only had eyes and ears for his date. The first of his dates to arrive. He walked steadily, and slightly spellbound, to meet Becca at the base of the stairs and gave her a gentle kiss on the cheek. Becca was beaming before and after the kiss, though the slight apprehension seemed to disappear during. Dave led her over to the others, clustered around the small bar area Janice had setup. Lupie slipped away to the kitchen after giving Becca a hug and beaming like a proud mother. Well, older sister. Mel handed them each a 'mocktail' before Dave conducted Becca to her seat on one side of his, at the head of the table. He gave her another kiss once she was seated. Then he caught Mel putting away her phone as she cleared her throat. With a quick pat on Becca's hand, Dave slipped away to observe Reena's entrance. Kareena's feet first appeared, clad in white, open-toed wedge heels bearing a black line design on the upper. As she descended, a flowing, forest green skirt came into view, bearing a design done in gold thread. Her midriff was exposed. Her top was made in matching green to her skirt, also bearing tracery in gold thread along its bottom edge and the hem of the quarter sleeves. A green drape, again with designs in gold thread, lay across her shoulders. Medium-sized gold hoop earrings hung from her ears, but her head piece nailed the appearance she was after. One golden chain, bearing alternating clear and red crystals ran down her middle part, with two unadorned gold chains lying to each side. A pendant the size of a silver dollar, made of pearls and red gems fixed in gold dangled from the central chain, resting on her forehead, centered between her eyes and between her hairline and brow line. Her face was supremely confident and demure in equal measure. Dave met her at the base of the stairs, taking her hand gently and kissing her cheek. Then he led her to the cluster of ladies observing the festivities. "That dress is lovely, Reena, dear." Vanessa said. "It's traditional is it not?" "It is. The entire outfit and the skirt are called a lehenga, while the top is a choli, and the drape is a dupatta." The ladies cooed over the garment a bit before Dave escorted Reena to her seat on the other side of the head. After a quick conversation with each lady, he made two small plates with a few appetizers each and placed them in front of his dates. He made a quick plate of his own and took his place at the head, Becca on his right and Reena on his left. Reena's dark hair gathered in a thick braid down her back contrasted with Becca's blonde curls cascading onto her shoulders. Both girls were bubbling over with excitement. The others took turns circulating past and joining the trio's conversation while holding a small paper plate with an appetizer or two, emulating a real prom. When Lupie called Mel in to help plate up the dinner, the rest of the family filed out, after delivering a few hugs. The two cooks brought in the warm plates, each bearing a small steak, mashed potatoes, and a vegetable medley. Lupie gave Becca a quick hug from behind, whispering something in her ear. Whatever it was, it made Becca smile and blush. Mel did the same for Reena, though without the blushing aspect. Dave ate one-handed, though not the same hand the whole time. The girls switched off holding his hand. They generously gave him time to slice up his steak into strips every few minutes. The talk was light, catching up on unshared activities of the past week, mulling desired amenities to be discussed with Vanessa and the rest of the family, 80's and 90's songs the girls had picked up from MTV's renewed format, and so on. Of course, Dave took a few opportunities to complement each of his dates on their hairstyle, the outfits they'd picked out and how it accented some feature or other. The girls were glowing. Keeping his compliments specific was apparently the way to go. Eventually, the three arose, having finished eating several minutes prior. Dave escorted them both, simultaneously, one on each arm, to a couch against one wall of the living room. Initially, they continued their conversation. Janice and Olivia slipped in to clean up the dishes. Mel started up the next playlist, labeled 'Mood Setting'. The songs were chosen to get the celebrants relaxed and enjoying each other's company. The last few songs ramped up the beat. Recognizing a song she'd chosen, Reena leapt to her feet, turned to grab Dave's hand, and drug him out on the 'dance floor'. For the next three songs she danced and hopped, her hands spending most of their time above her shoulders, unless they were draped over Dave's shoulders while she rocked her hips and stared into his eyes. Her braid flipped about as she cavorted. The next song was a slow one. Reena let out a sigh, hugging Dave, her head against his chest. "This is Becca's song. Can you walk me back, and ask her on to the floor? She's getting more confident being here, but you'll need to ask her to dance." Dave kissed her full on the lips, more than a quick peck, but less than a steamy passionate lip-lock. Then he walked her back to the couch where her best friend, his young blonde lover waited. Becca's eyes shone with anticipation as she watched her friend and her man approach, walking casually, loosely, with Reena occasionally leaning in to bounce her shoulder off Dave's arm. He pulled her in for one more kiss, before releasing her to take her seat. Then he took Becca's hand, asking her, "May I have this dance?" Becca giggled. "Of course!" She leapt to her feet, squealing happily when Dave pulled her in for a kiss before leading her out to the open space. Becca's chosen songs were slower, which allowed her to cling to Dave, and gave Dave the kind of dance he was fully prepared for; shuffling his feet and swaying. His lack of skill at rug cutting didn't faze his lovely blonde nerd girl in the least. Holding him close and shuffling fit her needs just fine. He could feel her contentment in the way she held him. In this moment, her world was peaceful and perfect. Becca looked up to stare into Dave's eyes. "Thank you, David. For so much. Everything you've done." Her eyes watered. "I never would have gotten through those first weeks without your help." She swallowed. "Then again through the long months, the three of us together, in two houses. And after; " her voice became too thick to talk. Dave kissed her. She calmed as he held her. "You gave me a new life David. You gave me love. I would never have gone to prom before, but with you, I want all of this." A few songs later, an energetic tune began. Becca looked up to Dave. "Her turn." She gave him a kiss just as Reena tapped Dave on the shoulder. "May I have this dance?" "Certainly." Dave stepped back from Becca and offered her hand he held to Reena. Both teens laughed heartily at the joke. Then Reena stepped in and started dancing with Becca. The young blonde looked a bit surprised, but game to play along on this happy night. The girls danced half the song together, before turning to Dave, who had stepped a short distance away, and pulled him in. The three person dance worked for the remainder of the song but just barely. As that song ended, Dave walked Becca back to the couch before returning to his dark haired lover on the dance floor. Her moves over the next several songs got more daring. A few moves in which her ass was rubbing on his thigh; including the one time she twerked; Dave noticed an odd firmness between Reena's cheeks. For her last song, she'd picked a slow dance. She confirmed to him that this was her last song, not Becca's first. Reena clung to him tightly, partly from exertion, partly for the feel of him against her. "David, I need to be honest with you," Reena said sometime after her breathing steadied. "This dress, the lehenga, it's a special dress. It's not for every party, just special ones, like prom; or a wedding." Dave looked into her eyes as she continued. "Most Indian brides wear red, but my family is from Decca. We wear green for our wedding lehenga. This is the one my mother had made for me. I made sure to bring it when I came here. I'm; I'm not saying you have to marry me, but; this is my declaration. This is where I want to be, for the rest of my life, David. Here, in your arms, sharing life with you." Dave's head spun with the revelation. I mean, damn, this young woman had just pledged herself to him for a lifetime. Granted, the serum made that a reality already, but; damn. "Reena, I; I don't know what to say. I know we've only known each other for a few weeks, but you are deeply embedded in my heart already. I; worry about you and Becca, and Mel and Olivia; bound to me for the rest of your lives; or at least the rest of mine, and then what happens to you? I am glad you are in my life. You bring your own special light to this house, this family. I can't say that I'm in love with you, but I am taken with you; you , not just your body; and I feel that I am moving towards love." Kareena's eyes watered softly as he spoke. When Dave finished, she moved in, offering her lips to him. Dave kissed her slowly and passionately. It took a moment for them to realize the music had stopped. Mel had paused the playlist because Reena's last song had finished, but the two lovers were not yet done. Dave walked Reena back to the couch one last time, and brought Becca out to dance again. Hers were slow dances, but the pace seemed to pick up as they progressed through the set. The last song was of the high energy type that Reena leaned towards. Becca writhed all over him like a stripper on a pole. She was blushing and biting her lip the entire time. She was also smiling; a smile that grew wider when she brushed her ass across Dave's crotch and felt his fully engorged cock straining to get out. She got bolder with that affirmation. Fortunately, the song ended before she escalated to dry humping. "You are wild, and crazy, and wonderful, Rebecca Sampson." Dave kissed her full on the lips, long and slow. There was a definite hunger in her eyes when they broke the kiss. With Becca on one arm, Dave approached Reena. He offered her his other hand and she rose. A beautiful lady on either side, Dave waved to the rest of the family and went upstairs. A few catcalls followed them. Liv even called out "Don't do anything I wouldn't do!" Reena snapped back, laughing "Short list!" All the women laughed at that, with Liv clapping as she joined in. Dave and his young lovers ascended the stairs, turning down the hallway to the 'hotel room'. He opened the door, standing back to let the ladies enter first. He was relieved at what he saw. Or rather, what he didn't see. He'd been a bit worried that Liv would do up the room like a cheesy bachelorette party, with sex themed decorations, and um 'accoutrements'. No such thing was in sight. A foot and a half (half a meter) to the left as he entered was the foot of a full size bed, with its upper left corner nestled in the corner of the room. A small rectangular table just slightly taller than the bed sat against the same wall as the head of the bed, with a second full size bed beyond that, fitting neatly into the corner of the room diagonal from the door. The room was clean and spare, and slightly cozy. Just like a hotel room. Both girls turned to him, hungry and excited. Becca pressed herself against Dave as she pulled his head down for a long, slow kiss that promised a lot more to come. Her hands wandered over his chest, back, and butt, encouraging him to do the same. Dave started with his hands on her shoulders, rubbing down her arms and back up. Then he progressed to her shoulder blades, and her back, tracing his fingertips lightly up and down her spine. Settling his hands at her waist, he slowly brought them around to her front, his thumbs making circles as they lead the way onto her tummy. Becca was neither athletic, nor out of shape. Her tummy was soft and yielding. It was also sensitive, as were her sides. With a twinkle in his eye, Dave let a few strokes land just the way he knew would stimulate her tickle reflex. Becca leapt backwards, letting out a shriek and a giggle. "Must be my turn now." Reena purred. Dave was already erect with the inducements he'd received thus far. The young woman's sultry tones made his cock ache. She pulled herself to him, planting her soft lips on his, darting her tongue briefly into his mouth as an invitation before holding her own lips lightly parted for him. Her full tits pressed firmly into Dave' lower chest as she undulated her hips against him. Then she broke the kiss, sighing. "Hmm, I'd love to keep going, but I did agree to the plan." "Plan?" "Umm-hmm. I got to dance first, she gets to get naked first." Dave turned back to Becca, who was advancing on him again. She rose up to kiss him hungrily, while sliding her hands under his dark brown suitcoat and shoving it off his arms. Not hearing it fall to the ground, or feel it against his legs, Dave surmised Reena had caught it and was putting it somewhere out of the way. Taking his cue, Dave slipped his hands around behind Becca's back, seeking out the zipper on the back of her dress. He found the line of it, and located the pull just as Becca finished unfastening the black buttons of his satiny purple shirt and began pulling the tails out of his pants. He pulled her tight, slowing her actions, as he lowered her zipper unhurriedly. The flash of color on her face told Dave she knew he was stretching this out on purpose. Her look only got more determined as she pulled his shirt down his arms. Dave helped her cause, lowering his arms and folding his thumbs in so the cuffs fell free. He'd already gotten the zipper to its base anyway. Becca stared at him, bit her lip, and shrugged the straps of her shoulders. The dress fell smoothly and quickly to the floor. On her chest, at the sides of her tits, leaving her medium brown areolas and firm nipples exposed, were two foam pads, that adhered to her curves and pushed her modest tits together, forming the bit of cleavage Dave had been admiring all night. "Well ain't technology wonderful?" Dave drawled. Becca giggled. "Wanna take them off?" she said before nibbling her lower lip. "Slowly, please." Dave stepped close, picked her up, and kissed her as he placed her across the bed, on her back. He kissed his way to her jaw as the fingers of his right hand found the top corner of the foam. As he nibbled on the corner of her jaw, he pulled gently, persistently on the pad. It came free with only two flinches on Becca's face. Each one faded as Dave moved the assault of his lips to sensitive parts of Becca's neck. He kept up the distraction of his lips as he removed the foam piece on the left. That one came of easier. Dave moved down to kiss her tits. His kisses and licks brought only moans, so the pad removal seemed to have no ill effects. Dave continued down Becca's body, kissing and suckling as he made his way to her panties. There; wasn't much there. Smaller than a G-string, and the string forming the waist of the panties sat high, obviously, to stay out of view of the slit. The tiny piece of cloth running between her legs just barely managed to cover her privates. If Becca'd left any hair on her pubis, none of it would be under the cloth. Her clit must have been ducking all night just to stay covered. Dave looked up her body to see Becca bushing furiously; and grinning wildly. With his eyes locked on hers, he brought his lips to her gusset and kissed firmly. He felt light moisture as he made contact. Her back arched as he tongued her through the cloth. The panties became sopping wet in short order. Dave slipped his fingers into the string and pulled them down her legs. Becca now lay on the bed crosswise, her hips hanging just off the edge, her toes touching the floor. She lifted her head, and with a lift of her eyebrow and jerk of her head urged Dave to switch his notice to her friend. He kissed the inside of her knee before moving on. Dave took a beaming Reena in his arms. The two lovers fell into a passionate kiss. Dave allowed his hands to roam for a little while, then brought them to her back. He found the ends of the string and pulled slowly on them, untying the knot securing her top. With the tension released from the string in the back, her weighty tits lowered slightly. Reena looked up at Dave adoringly as he lifted her top and freed her tits. She raised her arms as he continued the motion upward. A moment later, she was bare from her navel up. She wrapped her arms behind his neck and kissed him, pressing her lush chest against his firm torso. Dave held her steady as she kicked off her shoes, then did the same himself. When her hands reached for his belt buckle, his sought out the zipper he expected to find at the back of her skirt. It wasn't there. Reena giggled and wiggled her hips. Picking up her cue, Dave sent one hand to each hip, finding a zipper on her right one. The placement made sense as it aided in the taper of the skirt fitting snuggly to her lower torso. He felt his zipper lower and his pants dropped. Her skirt followed shortly thereafter. Her hands went straight to his boxers, pulling them off his hips and shoving them downward. He slipped a finger into each side string of her panties and slowly lowered them. He paused as his arms reached their lowest extent, her panties dangling from his fingers. Reena stood essentially nude before him, though they were too close for him to fully appreciate the sight. Two weeks since her arrival, he had seen it all, but he hoped it never got old, with any of them. Them. Dear God, he had multiple women willing sleeping with him, in full knowledge of the others. And these two. Two teen girls, in some ways so very different, but both just starting down the path of life. And both emphatically dedicated to him. Dave felt the weight of his responsibility to them as thoroughly as he felt elation at their enthusiastic company. And tonight was for celebration, and enthusiasm. He dropped Reena's panties and knelt in front of her. As he leaned in, drawing a breath to fill his nose with her scent, she tapped him on the head. When he looked up, she pointed to Becca, lying on the bed. Right. The plan. He stood and led Reena to the bed, guiding her to lay down beside her friend. Like Becca, Reena lay crosswise, her hips just past the edge of the bed, her feet brushing the floor. Dave knelt before Becca. He placed her legs over his shoulder, grinning at her sharp intake of breath. He kissed her inner thighs, alternating legs and slowly advancing towards her already soaked and flowered open; pussy. Dave took her lower lips in his, suckling on her sex, drawing her juices into his mouth and reveling in her excited squirming. The low, drawn out groan issuing from her throat played soundtrack as he gave her his devotion. When her pleasure plateaued, he switched his attention, driving his tongue into her passage, lapping at her fluids and massaging her walls. His hands held her hips firmly as she bucked, her back bowing, her hands grasping the comforter. Then he moved up, taking her nub between his lips, flicking the end with his tongue and suckling firmly. Becca exploded in ecstasy. Dave noticed signs of arousal from Reena throughout the oral session. Reasonable, given the visual display and the certainty she would soon receive the same attention. He was not prepared for the raven haired Indian teen to curl into a ball and wail her pleasure in unison with the nerdy blonde he was lashing with his tongue. He came up grinning wildly. "Wow, two orgasms with one tongue, that's new." Reena looked at him, startled, confused, a wild look of hunger and pleasure in her eyes. Dave knew how to deal with that. He gently lay Becca's legs onto the bed, leaving her curled in a loose fetal position. Then he slipped over in front of Reena. Settling between her legs, the small black protruding knob peeking out between her butt cheeks confirmed what he'd felt while dancing. As he kissed the inside of her knee, she moaned. "No, no David, no more foreplay. Please get inside me." Dave looked up to see her earnest face and rapacious eyes. He stood, still holding her legs. He held her legs lightly parted, ankles resting on his shoulders. As her approving eyes watched, he stepped in closer, then leaned forward. Dave lined his organ up with Reena's excited sex and pressed forward steadily, his length and girth filling her at a measured pace. "Ho, God, David, Yes! Yes, baby, fuck me, fuck me so good!" Dave stroked in and out of her, slowly at first, then building to the faster, demanding pace he'd come to understand she enjoyed. As his energy built, he moved his hands to the back of her knees. He pushed them forward, pinning them to the bed just below her armpits. The sensation of additional pressure from the plug in her ass was odd, but her pleasure rose rapidly as he nailed her to the mattress, just like she liked it. She sang her approval in howling cries that accompanied the riotous actions of her passage a few minutes later. Becca crested with her. That; Dave could not explain. Granted, his specialty was in the physical sciences, not biological, but this little conundrum was way outside anything he understood about biology. Then again, so was the serum. Could they be linked? After a few minutes of panting recovery, Reena placed a hand on Dave's chest. "David, I know you've noticed; what I've prepared. It's time now. I did some research. I've had two orgasms now, you still haven't climaxed yet. It's perfect timing." "Reena ;” Dave started, hesitantly. Tearfully, she said, "Please David, this is something I want to do. I'm a little surprised at myself, but I want this. I want to feel you back there. I want to give you what I would otherwise be afraid of someone insisting on. I want to be fully and unreservedly yours." "I have no experience with anal. I've looked it up a few times in the past month or so. It's something I'd like to try, eventually. I figured at some point in the future, I'd bring it up with one of you. But it's a new thing for me." Reena's face suddenly glowed. "The future is now, David. We can explore it together." She planted a big kiss on him as she undulated her body against him. Dave slipped one hand down to grope her firm ass, kneading the yielding flesh possessively. Reena's breathing picked up again. "There's a bottle of special lube for anal in the drawer of the nightstand. I asked Janice to put some there, after swearing her to secrecy. She helped me learn what I needed to know for this. Seems librarians know how to find any information you could want." "Especially the naughty ones," Dave quipped. Reena giggled in response. Dave checked the drawer of the table, finding a small lube bottle with labeling declaring it was made thicker than normal to facilitate anal sex. Dave slathered a bit on his cock as he moved back to Reena. With smooth, patient pressure, Dave pulled the plug out of her ass. He applied a bit more lube to the slowly shrinking ring of her gaping anus before setting the capped bottle aside. Dave pressed the head of his cock against her open hole pressing forward. He gradually increased the applied pressure until his head slipped inside. The resulting thrust buried another inch of his cock up her backside before he met resistance. "Huh." Reena voice was guttural. Dave waited for her to adapt. To call for him to back off or continue. "Nice and steady Dave." Dave moved as she asked, adding maybe two inches up her ass every minute as he made small thrusts that were slightly more ins than outs. "Oh, David. It's weird and good. It's a little scary and a little bit of hurt. Please keep going. Steady, just like you're doing." "Should I get more lube?" "No, no, not more lube. Just; slow and steady. It's so different, but I want it. Keep going." Dave continued working himself into her rear entrance until his pelvis compressed her ass cheeks. He held himself there, making small motions, tiny thrusts, small circles, anything he could think of. Reena breathed steadily, giving him short encouragements. Becca turned over to watch. Taking his cues from Reena's reactions, Dave pulled back out slowly, but continuously. When only his head remained within her, he moved forward again. Slow and steady, Dave sawed his cock in and out of Kareena's lovely, tight teen ass. After a few minutes, She called for more lube. Dave added it to both her ring and his cock while he was mostly out of her. A few measured thrusts distributed the lube everywhere it needed to be. "Oh my God. Oh wow, that; that feels good. Fuck, David, I just wanted to give you something special. This, this feels good. Uh. Pick up the pace, lover." Dave began a moderately paced drilling of Reena's forbidden hole. Not enough to make her grunt, but each impact of his hips on her cheeks elicited an exhale from the girl. Initially overwhelmed with concern for her, Dave was getting into it now. His cock was in her ass. It was so tight, so warm, so taboo. Holy shit, this girl was giving him her ass! Unbidden, he picked up his pace. The guttural groan from his lover signaled her approval. Dave slipped one hand from her hip, around her waist, seeking out her sensitive nub. The moment he made contact, a shudder washed through Reena's body, not quite an orgasm, but her accompanying moan was gratifying. Two more small shudders later, and her whole body spasmed, her arms collapsing and her ass clamping down on Dave's half-inserted cock so hard it arrested him mid thrust. Dave held still, waiting for her to ride it out. He rested both hands on her butt, just waiting. And watching. Not just Reena. Becca had again curled herself tighter, shaking and moaning. Reena's fluids dripped from his sack, having squirted on her climax. Becca's wide eyes and the wet spot behind her curled hips indicated she had as well. This was; weird. Maybe he should talk to someone about this? Who though? How would that call go? "Yeah, Vaccine Expert Guy? Look, I'm having sex with one girl and get her to climax, but her friend beside her, that neither of us is touching, also gets one. Any clues how that happened? What's that? You're sending someone to pick me up? Okay, just make sure they bring that lovely white jacket with all the pretty little straps and buckles." In his musing, Dave completely missed Reena's recovery. He snapped back to reality when she grabbed his hand. He caught her eyes, alive with joy, pleasure, and excitement. "Hey stud, let's finish this." "You just came with a cock in your ass. I think we hit peak ass-fucking, girl." Reena and Becca laughed. "No, we haven't, I'm taking a load of your cum right up my back door. Fuck me David, fuck me hard. I am so completely yours." The emotions rippling across her face freed Dave of his renewing worries for her. Dave took hold of Reena's hips, pulling her close as he drove himself to the hilt inside her warm, tight anus. She groaned her approval. He started slow. "Harder, David. Faster. Fuck me like an animal." David picked up the pace, energized by her words and Becca's heavy breathing. The little blonde's nipples were erect, the areolas bumpy with arousal. Taking Reena at her word, Dave got an idea. He reached his right hand up her body, grasping her braid between its center and the base of her skull. Using it like a rein, he pulled her up and into him as he accelerated his thrusting, hammering her ass with savage thrusts. "Hah, Yes," was the last intelligible speech she let out before devolving into grunts, forced exhales, and subvocals of pleasure and arousal. Becca watched, wide-eyed and rubbing herself. Dave felt his peak arriving with the subtlety of a freight train doing 60. He shoved himself deep inside, compressing her ass cheeks just as he erupted. He howled in primal triumph. He was too distracted by his own climax to see Becca shuddering through one as well. Reena he could feel clamping down on his cock again as he fired rope after rope of hot cream deep in her asshole. Reena went limp after her orgasm subsided. Dave lowered her gently to the bed before collapsing to her side. "That was intense." Becca said softly from the other side of Reena. Without the energy to lift his head, Dave looked in the direction of Becca's voice, seeing only Reena's back as he replied. "Yup." Dryly, Becca added "You're gonna have to wash that before touching me with it." Dave and Reena busted out laughing. They all lay there, panting and recovering until Dave levered himself up, heading for the door. "Where are you going?" Reena asked. "Wash my cock. Becca hasn't gotten any yet." "There's wipes in the drawer where the lube was." Dave looked askance. "Is that enough though?" Both girls nodded. After cleaning Reena and himself with the wipes, Dave slumped to the bed between his lovers. The girls had moved to lie 'properly' on the bed. Now all three lay awake, cuddled together, basking in each other's proximity. Presently, Becca rolled closer to Dave, kissing him softly with a hand on his chest. When he only responded with his lips, she took his hand and placed it on her tit. He grinned into the kiss as he fondled her softness. Shortly thereafter, his other hand began stroking her side. He also felt soft kisses on his neck from behind. Signaling Reena to scoot over a bit, Becca rolled Dave onto his back and slipped herself on top of him. Grinning broadly, she rocked her body on top of his as she hovered above him, her small tits dragging along his chest. At the top of each stroke she planted a quick kiss on his lips. The desired effect; his erection; was not long in coming. Becca felt it bump against her backside on her down strokes. She raised herself up, reaching back to grasp his organ and lining him up. Becca sighed contentedly as she impale her sopping wet and very relaxed sex on Dave's stiff meat pole. Then she started riding him. Slowly, eyes fixed on his, shining. This one wasn't a wild fuck. This was making love. Slow, luxurious, wondrous. Reena's kisses moved down Dave's shoulder to his bicep, then across to his pecs. Becca reached a hand to ruffle Reena's hair playfully. Reena moved her kissing target slowly down Dave's side. Then she reached Becca's thigh. Dave watched with anticipation as Becca stiffened slightly when Reena kissed the top of her thigh. The kisses crept up Becca's leg, some on top, some on the inside, as the young blonde's breathing grew rapid. As Reena reached Becca's torso, the nerdy girl leaned back, accommodating the attention she was receiving. She let out a soft moan, telling Dave Reena had reached Becca's navel. She loved getting kissed and tongued on her belly button. Then the Indian teen's head changed angles. Becca's eye flew wide in recognition. She also leaned back further as she kept rocking on Dave's cock. "Oh David, Oh David! She's, she's oh she's going to; Oh! She's On My Clit!" moments later, Becca's inner muscles ran riot on Dave's cock. Reena reached an arm up to keep her blonde friend from toppling backwards. Reena pulled her head out of the way and Becca collapsed on Dave. The dusky skinned girl curled in tight beside Dave and the three passed out. Chapter 9; The Full Dave. October 24, 2020. Dave and his prom dates slept in Saturday morning. As light crawled across their bodies from between the window curtains, the ray of warmth eventually caught Dave's attention, dragging him from Hypnos' arms and back to the waking world. Becca and Reena were both curled tightly against him, one under each arm, their heads resting on his shoulders. All three were nude. Dave felt Becca's modest rises on one side and the lushness of Reena's full tits on the other. In superficial ways, these girls had a lot of differences. Yet both had made a mature decision when faced with little time and an alarming change in the way of the world. Dave really needed to get over his anxieties and honor the commitment the young women had made. That they had reiterated last night. The whole family had pulled together to make last night as special as possible. It was; amazing. As a socially awkward nerd through high school and college, Dave never really expected to attend a dance. And even though he was the only guy present, and it was in; their living room, the whole evening was, well, magical. The attestations of his two youngest partners certainly made the evening special. And then there was the after. What the hell was that? Though, without the weird orgasm wave that happened to his lovers, the sex last night was a-mazing. Anal with Reena. And then Reena went down on Becca; while Becca was riding him! Dave was beginning to think he should be writing some of this down. "Dear Playboy, you'll never believe what happened last night ;” Becca stirred next to him. Not for long. Having been awake for a few minutes now, certain morning needs were making themselves known. Becca snuggling tighter against him signaled he was not going to easily extricate himself anytime soon. He had the choice of easy, and later, or now, but not easy. His bladder was making a decisive argument for now. It took some careful wiggling, but Dave managed to slip out, though both girls were on the verge of waking from his disturbances. Becca was half awake already. Dave found a pair of shorts in his bag, staged there by Jan and Liv, maintaining the appearance the three had checked into a hotel room. He pulled on the shorts and t-shirt and made his way to the bathroom quietly. He was just stepping inside when he heard a voice behind him. "Hey, magic man." Dave turned to see Olivia and Melanie standing in the hallway. Olivia smirking, Mel looking; uncertain. "There's a song about that. One of your mother's favorites, actually. A bit before our time really, but she loved to sing it while staring straight at your dad." "Gross. And don't try to change the subject." "Which is?" "How did you manage to induce orgasms in a woman that wasn't even in the same room with you." Dave stared at her blankly, then blinked. "Uh, once more with clarity?" Mel blushed, fidgeting. "I, uh; I was downstairs in the gym last night. After the dance was over. I was working off; excess energy. All of a sudden, I'm losing my grip on the rowing handle, and my legs feel like water. Now, I like a good workout, but I've never cum from one." Dave just stared for several heartbeats. "You felt that?!" He drew a breath. "Shit, it was weird enough watching both of them climax when I was only touching one." He stepped backwards, swinging the door shut. "I'm willing to finish this conversation, after I attend to business." When he came back out, Mel and Livy were no longer in the hallway. He slipped back into the room to find Becca waiting, mostly awake, and Reena stirring. Dave gave each young lady soft kisses to ease their introduction to the day. Smiles and stretches greeted his efforts. Reena wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him in for a longer kiss. Then she relaxed her grip, opening the distance between them to gaze into his eyes. "I love you, David." Dave was shocked. Becca, similarly shocked, recovered faster. "Oh shit," she said. "You beat me to it." Dave looked at his young blonde lover. "It's not a competition, Rebecca. You are dear to me, and I know you feel the same." He turned his attention back to the young lady currently pressing her sizable tits against his stomach. He stared into her liquid brown eyes, shining with emotion and certainty. "Kareena; I've rushed into saying those words before. I; " "I'm not asking you to say those words back to me, David. I can see it in your eyes, and feel it in your arms around me. That's what I need. You give me what I need, and that's why I feel safe saying those words." No words came to Dave that were equal to the moment, so he held her close, resting his cheek on top of her head as she nuzzled into his chest. Until her stomach growled; and then his replied in kind. The teens dressed, Dave watching and appreciating the show. Reena noticed first and threw a little extra something in her movements. Becca caught on quickly, wiggling her ass as she pulled a pair of green cotton shorts over her pale blue thong. Dressed, they left the room and headed downstairs to meet the rest of the family gathering around the dining room table, laying out breakfast. This being a Saturday, everyone was home. Reena and Becca split up, each working their way around the room, giving each woman a tight, meaningful hug that lasted more than just a quick grasp. There were a few quiet statements of "You're welcome, dear." Jan, beaming brought a plate from the stove over to Dave. "Over medium, just like you like them." There was a slight nervousness in her smile. "Thank you, Jan." Dave received the plate with a grateful smile and motioned her closer. He gave her a firm, lingering kiss. Jan blushed, then turned to get her own plate. Dave piled a big helping of hashbrowns on his plate beside the eggs before adding bacon. He dug in with gusto, listening to the light-hearted conversations passing amongst his partners. Smiles and happy tones wafted about the table. As the meal wound down, Dave spoke up. "Esme, please take Roscoe out back and play with him for a while. He needs a bit of exercise." "Are you calling my dog fat?" Liv asked mockingly. "He's going to get antsy cooped up in the house all day and as social as he is, he ought to have company." "It's fine, Aunt Livy," Esme said. "I like playing with Roscoe. He's fun." "Thank you, Esme," Dave said. As she passed by his chair, he pulled her close and kissed her forehead. After Esme headed upstairs to find the large canine and his leash, Dave addressed the rest of the family. "Let's all gather in the living room, please." "Okay," Lupie said cautiously, "can we get the kitchen and dining room cleaned up first or is it urgent?" "Depends," Dave rejoined cheekily, "on if I get to participate in the cleanup." Lupie narrowed her eyes and stared at him. Dave relented first. "Okay, okay, no point in letting food harden on the dishes, it's not that urgent." Dave chuckled as he acquiesced. Jan and Lupie, having made breakfast, were exempted from cleaning and joined Dave in the living room immediately. Shawna and Nessa waved the younger four off and took care of the morning cleanup. Six women made their way to seats in the living room, along with Dave. They shared perfunctory conversations about their plans for the day. Aside from the Belsus Grand Prix, of course. That was due to start shortly after lunch. "Okay, Dave, what's up?" Shawna asked as she and Nessa joined the others. Suddenly, Dave looked uncomfortable again. "Well, first, I just want to convey my gratitude to each of you for last night. Ya'll did an amazing job. I enjoyed the evening, and I'm sure Becca and Reena did as well." "Hmm," Shawna began with a wicked grin, "I'm sure the young ladies' enjoyment had more to do with events we were not a party to." The others snickering elevated to a few guffaws when Reena and Becca blushed. Then Becca spoke up. "No, seriously, last night was wonderful and I want to thank all of you for putting it on. You are each so special to me, and for you to do all of that; I can't thank you enough." Reena hugged her bestie and nodded. "I haven't been here as long as the others, but for myself, it was a treat to be able to give you that special night." Vanessa said. The nods of the others added their agreement. "Well, the thing is; uh, wow, I swore I wasn't going to discuss details about each of you with each other, but this is kind of a unique circumstance. And well, I probably should be the one to describe it, since I was the only one; external to the situation." "I was there, you were not external." Reena's rejoinder garnered another round of giggling. Dave blushed, then closed his eyes, shaking his head. "Look, here's the thing, while we were; intimate, uh, I mean, I would be; giving attention to Becca, and as she; climaxed, so did Reena; and I wasn't touching Reena." "Let your fingers do the walkin' did ya?" Nessa teased. "Actually, no, I was enjoying just watching," Reena said quietly. That got the other's attention. "And it kept happening all night. Every time I brought one to climax, both of them peaked." "Yep, even when Dave was in my butt, Becca hit the high notes with me when I got there; which I didn't even expect to happen." "Well, they said whenever the guy cums, we would too, no matter where he was," Nessa offered. "No, I mean; sure yeah, that happened too; but I wasn't expecting to actually enjoy it. I just wanted to give Dave something special. I didn't think it would feel so good." "Neither did I," Becca added. All of the ladies looked pensive for a bit. Shawna was the first to speak. "You're saying that the girls climaxed together, no matter who you were touching?" Dave just nodded. "Lemme tell ya, it was one heck of a bonding experience," Reena added. "I'll bet." Quiet reigned again. "You gave him your ass?" Olivia grumped. Reena nodded, hesitantly. "Damn it, they beat us to it," Liv said, looking at Mel. "Guess that just leaves threesome as the only remaining first." When Becca looked at Reena side-eyed and Reena looked at the ceiling with a suppressed grin and a slight reddening of her cheeks, Liv's eyes flared. "Oh hell no, you little sluts did that too?" "I'll gladly be Dave's little slut," Becca replied. Reena inhaled, puffing out her chest. "The smell of your jealousy is delicious." Liv threw a pillow. Vanessa and Shawna laughed. "Now hold on, the two of them in the same room taking turns with him ain't the same as a threesome." "Oh, we know." Reena replied. Even with her darker skin, the blush in her cheeks was notable. Dave sat there with a wry grin on his face, not saying a word. "Are we embarrassing you Dave?" "Nope. I was there when it happened and this conversation still makes me feel like I fell into the Twilight Zone," Dave chuckled. "My brain keeps trying to make sense of everything that's happened, while my cock keeps saying 'Dude, shut up! Hot women are happily fucking us!'" That earned several chuckles. Then, the women shared looks, a certain gleam in their eyes. Almost as one, the women rose from their seats and approached Dave. It could have engendered a sense of foreboding, but he knew these women too well to think they had any ill intent. They encircled Dave, taking turns slowly kissing him. Lips on his, more lips on his ears, yet more on his shirt covered chest. Hands stroked his body, avoiding his cock; barely. Fingers played in his hair. Soft moans from Dave and each of the ladies of his house lightly covered over the heavy breathing. A loud bark from Roscoe, just outside the door, threw a bucket of cold water on the proceedings. Chagrined, the women drifted back to their seats. Dave took a shuddering breath and adjusted himself. "We need to keep the Esme rule in mind," Dave said levelly. "No one mounted you, and you were in a recliner, not on the couch," Mel replied. "The letter of the rule might not have been violated, but the spirit got shot so full of holes it'd whistle in a good wind. In four-part harmony, with reverb." "I was as much a part of instigating that as anyone," Lupie interjected. "But yes, we need to be careful. There's so much sexual innuendo everywhere these days, we don't need to give her a live demo." "With her own mother in a starring role." Lupie blanched at Dave's reply. "Getting back to the topic at hand; it was strange enough that Reena and Becca were climaxing sympathetically. At least they could see what was happening, they were in the same room together. This morning; Mel, why don't you take this part?" "Yeah, uh, as I was telling Dave this morning that, um, last night, I was working out in the gym room. On the rower. Well, all of the sudden I; had an orgasm. Mid-stroke. I had no idea what was going on, but I nearly fell off the rower. It was weird enough that I called it quits for the night and cleaned up the gym, heading to bed. On my way up the stairs, another one hit. I caught myself with my hands, so I didn't stumble too hard, but that was; really weird. Since the gym is almost directly below the room they were in, and the stairs run up right beside it, and given what happened in the room, they have to be linked." Silence settled on the room again. "Wow, so, some kind of shared orgasm, with a broadcast range?" Nessa asked. "Looks like it. I have no idea how, but that's what appears to have happened." "We didn't feel anything like that in the master bedroom. This is something we should report David." Shawna was in full on science mode. "They may already know about it, and can tell us why, or maybe they don't and the researchers need to find out what caused this. Either way, it has to be the serum doing it." "Agreed. It didn't happen to us before, so let's work through possible variables before we call." "Okay," Shawna said, staring into space and beginning to count off on her fingers, "One; your first partner arrived roughly seven weeks ago. Two; you've just reached eight partners. Three; it was a special night, so maybe something about the hormones of being that happy?" "All those sound reasonable. It was also the first threesome." Dave replied. "Anybody else?" "You two are the scientists," Lupie commented. "And both of us specialize in the physical sciences, not squishy stuff," Dave replied. "Don't sell yourself short baby," Shawna rebounded, "you're quite good with our squishy stuff." The women all laughed as Dave blushed again, his eyes wide and his mouth scrunched tight. With a grin. "Okay, so I'll call the Vax Center to tell them what happened. Assuming they don't haul me away in a padded van, we'll do the Mario Kart tournament this afternoon." "And movies afterward!" Reena exclaimed. "Sounds good to me," Shawna replied. "What are we watchin'?" The person at the Vax Center sounded like Dave's report was the first time they'd heard of this happening. They also sounded like they were no longer surprised by weird effects of the vaccine. So no padded van. Dave made it to the semifinal rounds but got knocked out by Olivia. She shot him with a spread of green shells right before the finish line and crossed ahead of him to seal her spot in the finals. In a playful whine he cried out "I thought you loved me!" His pouty lip drew laughter from the rest of the house, but only a tongue sticking out from his college age paramour. "All's fair in love and Mario Kart!" Livy proudly proclaimed. Dave managed to notice the extra, conciliatory bounce she gave to her tits as she laughed. Watching those big pec pillows jostling under her shirt did have an ameliorating effect. Doubly so since he had gotten intimately familiar with said fun bags. Dave took a moment to savor the mental image of Livy's lush, full tits, free of her bra, jostling back and forth, her medium brown areolas and thick nipples hopping like the bouncing ball in a sing along video while he pounded into her rapidly as they neared a mutual climax. Well, double for her, as Dave generally worked to get the lady there for real at least once before he allowed himself to let loose. And that was for quickies. If they had more time he never let himself release before she'd gotten three. Granted, that was getting a bit more difficult when he was juggling the needs of eight women. Dave shook himself back to reality. A couple of the ladies were smirking. Others were studiously looking away. Reena offered a high-five to Olivia. "Daydream score!" Reena cried out as the college girl accepted the congratulations of the recent high school grad. Both busty ladies laughed. A bit of shuffling ensued as everyone made space for Liv, Mel, Esme, and Shawna to take prime playing spots for the final game round. Spacing had gotten easier over the past few rounds as Lupie and Jan were eliminated and headed to the kitchen to start a movie night friendly meal. They hadn't told anyone what they were making, but no one had asked either. The smells were getting yummy though. Nessa decided to slip away to see if she could offer any help. Esme once again played Liv and Mel against each other. For one lap. Then all three noticed Shawna was well ahead of all of them. Then an all-out slaughter ensued as the three jostled each other, trying to surge ahead and battle with Shawna. Each one prayed for a blue shell, but none manifested. Esme finally got a lightning bolt, but miniaturized Princess Peach sailed across the finish line with room to spare. "How did you do that?" Reena cried incredulously. "I mean, you're this put together professional woman. How'd you get so good at Mario Kart?" "Professional scientist," Shawna replied. "How's that not set off your nerd alert? I was playing Mario Kart when it was 16 bit," she ended with a smirk. "Okay, hipster." Reena giggled back. Dave stepped close to Shawna, singing "This is how we do it ;” Together they started dancing, though Shawna clearly knew how, and Dave; not so much. He danced more like a caricature of a middle aged man breaking out old 90's moves in a dance club. The dance quickly morphed into a kiss that bounded between chaste and passionate. "Aw, it's so cute watching nerds in love." The two lovers laughed, breaking the kiss, and rested their foreheads together. "The table is all set," Lupie announced. "Make your plates and find a spot for the movie." There was a slight waver in her voice on the last part. Lupie was still adjusting to folks eating in the living room. Something she never allowed in her house, though when she went over to a family member's house for a big gathering, they all did it. She was making baby steps. They had plenty of evening and night left, and probably two movies before it was reasonable to send Esme to bed. First up was Inside Out, which Esme hadn't yet watched, and loved. Dave put away the disc after the movie ended. Reena took the lull to speak up. "How about we watch something streaming next? Maybe, The Babysitter?" "Are you nuts girl?" Shawna asked. "How 'bout we watch something that won't keep Esme from sleeping for a month?" Lupie, unfamiliar with the movie, took on a worried look. "That bad?" "Bad enough I'm not even going to describe it with her around. And She would never look at Becca the same again." Reena snorted. "To be fair, Becca is in a sort of cult now, with a much different sacrificial totem!" "Ha. Ha, ha. ha." Dave replied. Jan, seated beside Dave because it was her turn, chuckled while clutching his bicep and nestling her head on his shoulder. "Oh! How about The Mummy? The Brendan Fraser one, not Tom Cruise," Becca said from her seat on the floor between Dave's legs. Not doing anything frisky, that was understood, but often Becca or Reena; and occasionally Livy; sat there for family movie time. "Hmm, good movie, not sure if we should with Esme out here. Lupie?" "She's probably old enough now." Esme loved the movie. Almost as much as she loved Becca imitating the "I; am a librarian!" line, complete with a flop into Jan's lap. Everyone got a good laugh out of it; including Jan, who rolled her eyes as she did. October 25, 2020. Dave joined Lupie in the library for the Bible study she hosted for Becca and Reena. Originally, it was just Lupie by herself, but Becca had once shared a church with Lupie, and quickly asked to sit in with her. Recalling that Reena had mentioned church attendance in the past, Becca invited her to come as well. With his appearance this week, Dave made four. Lupie started with a prayer of invocation. When she finished, she gave Dave a shy smile. "We usually sing a few songs next." She bit her lip. "Just, please don't judge." Dave scowled, "Of course not." Then he softened his look. "That would be doubly inappropriate. People who give others grief for singing badly in church forgot the point of singing in church. And then there's the whole 'building your partner up' being violated like crazy if I gave you grief about your singing. I seem to recall there are a few verses in the Bible that have something to say against that." That earned another shy grin from Lupie, who then nodded to Becca. She and Reena launched into a song, obviously, they had planned ahead. As the first lyrics ushered forth, Dave recognized it and joined in. He closed his eyes and felt the meaning of the song, adding his own voice to the harmony. I will not forget you, you are my God, my King and with a thankful heart I bring my offering and my sacrifice is, not what you can give but what I alone can give to you! Dave finally re-opened his eyes, primarily to catch the cue for when the girls would start the second verse. He noted the eyes on him. Not exactly impressed, but surprised. Maybe they had expected him to just add a mumbling bass, but Dave had never been that guy. After two more songs, Lupie delivered her prepared lesson. They closed with another prayer. As each picked up their Bible to leave, Lupie tapped Dave on the shoulder. "The girls and I have talked about rotating who would give the lesson. They both agreed in principle, but didn't feel quite ready to actually do it. I think they feel uncomfortable taking the position of a moral authority. Do you think you could take the next lesson?" Dave caught his breath. It was one hell of an 'Oh by the way request'. It was also entirely reasonable. And honestly, it was his duty to either take on the role, or at least share it. "Sure. Maybe I can come up with something that will ease them in the right direction; or nudge them. I'm not quite sure which is more appropriate at the moment." To be continued in part 8, Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts, for Literotica.

From Burnout to Brilliance: The Sacred Power of Midlife with Minda Pacheco

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2025 33:46

Minda Pacheco, founder of Minda the Medium, a soul-led mentoring and healing practice that helps women reclaim their worth, awaken inner wisdom, and live with deep presence and sovereignty.Through intuitive mentoring, sound healing sessions, and spiritually grounded guidance, Minda creates safe, nurturing spaces for women in transition to release, heal, and remember who they truly are.Now, Minda's own journey of leaving behind careers that looked successful on the outside to follow her soul's true calling demonstrates the power of starting fresh in midlife with authenticity and courage.And while balancing vulnerability with deep wisdom, she is building a business that honours healing on every level - body, mind, and soul - guiding others through their own sacred becoming.Here's where to find more:https://www.mindathemedium.com________________________________________________Welcome to The Unforget Yourself Show where we use the power of woo and the proof of science to help you identify your blind spots, and get over your own bullshit so that you can do the fucking thing you ACTUALLY want to do!We're Mark and Katie, the founders of Unforget Yourself and the creators of the Unforget Yourself System and on this podcast, we're here to share REAL conversations about what goes on inside the heart and minds of those brave and crazy enough to start their own business. From the accidental entrepreneur to the laser-focused CEO, we find out how they got to where they are today, not by hearing the go-to story of their success, but talking about how we all have our own BS to deal with and it's through facing ourselves that we find a way to do the fucking thing.Along the way, we hope to show you that YOU are the most important asset in your business (and your life - duh!). Being a business owner is tough! With vulnerability and humor, we get to the real story behind their success and show you that you're not alone._____________________Find all our links to all the things like the socials, how to work with us and how to apply to be on the podcast here: https://linktr.ee/unforgetyourself

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Write Your Book With Confidence with Suzanne Doyle-Ingram

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2025 24:09

If you've been saying “I have a book inside me” and then immediately talking yourself out of it. This episode is your reality check and your roadmap. On Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Suzanne Doyle-Ingram, bestselling author and founder of the Expert Author Program, to break down what actually gets a nonfiction book finished and published without turning it into a five-year guilt project. Suzanne shares how she went from panic-mode during the 2008 crash to writing a surprise bestseller. Then she reveals the bigger truth. The win isn't book sales, it's building a book that sells your expertise, attracts clients, and opens speaking and visibility opportunities. You'll learn why most aspiring authors get stuck. No outline, no reader clarity, and no protected time. This conversation is part mindset, part practical execution. Perfect for coaches, consultants, entrepreneurs, and professionals ready to publish a business book that builds authority. About the Guest: Suzanne Doyle-Ingram is a bestselling author who has written and co-written 20+ books. She coaches business professionals to write, publish, and leverage nonfiction books for authority, clients, and speaking opportunities. Her team has supported 1,000+ experts through the book creation process. Key Takeaways: If you're “waiting until you're ready” to write. That's usually self-sabotage dressed as productivity. Write for your ideal reader, not your ego. A reader should feel “this was written for me.” Your ideal client and ideal reader are often the same person. Get crystal clear on their problems, fears, and goals. Outlines are non-negotiable. No outline means you're dragging readers through a forest with no path. Trending-topic books can make quick money but can burn you out fast. Passion plus strategy wins long-term. A book can be “not a bestseller” and still be a business asset that lands contracts, partnerships, and credibility. Protect your writing time like a meeting with your biggest client. Put it on your calendar and defend it. People-pleasing delays books. Learning to say “no” speeds up publishing more than any writing hack. Editors polish words. An outline protects structure, clarity, and trust. Your gift feels easy to you. That's exactly why it's valuable to others and worth turning into a book. Connect With The Guest: LinkedIn and Facebook: Search Suzanne Doyle-Ingram Website: Prominencepublishing.com Secret podcast: publishwithprominence.com/secret Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty—storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate—this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on: • Mental Health & Emotional Well-being • Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth • Holistic Healing & Conscious Living • Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

Podcasts That Are Different: How The Law Enforcement Talk Podcast Reaches Millions for Free.

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2025 11:35

Podcasts That Are Different: How The Law Enforcement Talk Podcast Reaches Millions for Free. Podcasting has officially entered the mainstream. What was once a niche medium for early adopters is now a dominant force across news, entertainment, and social media, reaching audiences on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and beyond. Look for The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. Today, 85% of people in the United States are familiar with the term “podcast,” a figure that represents a 10% increase since 2020. Familiarity does not necessarily mean regular listening, but it does signal cultural awareness. As podcasts are referenced more frequently on radio, television, and online platforms, they continue to move out of the “podcaster bubble” and into everyday conversation. This special episode is streaming for free on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform. By 2025, well over four in five Americans recognize the term podcast, a clear indicator that the medium has become part of the national media landscape. Supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . Awareness Is One Thing, Listening Is Another Listening habits reveal just how powerful podcasting has become. In mid-2023, Edison Research reported a major shift in media consumption: on-demand audio, including podcasts and streaming music, surpassed traditional AM/FM radio in total listening time across the United States. Podcasts That Are Different: How The Law Enforcement Talk Podcast Reaches Millions for Free. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms. That trend has only accelerated. According to Infinite Dial data released in early 2025, 70% of Americans have listened to a podcast at least once, up from 55% in 2020. While listening dipped briefly in 2022 as pandemic routines normalized, both monthly and weekly consumption rebounded strongly in 2023 and has continued to grow. Podcasting, it is now clear, is no longer an experiment. It is a mainstream medium. A Podcast That Breaks the Mold Among the thousands of shows competing for attention, some podcasts stand out by doing things differently. One of those is the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, a program built around police, crime, trauma, and real-life stories, delivered without cost and without filters. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. “It's 100 percent free,” the show's creator often emphasizes. “No subscriptions, no credit cards, and no paywalls. It never has been paid content, and it never will be.” That commitment to free access has helped the show grow into a nationally syndicated weekly talk radio program, now airing on 148 AM and FM commercial radio stations. Each week, the show is broadcast to an estimated 48 million people across the United States, in addition to its global podcast audience. Podcasts That Are Different: How The Law Enforcement Talk Podcast Reaches Millions for Free. Equally important is the show's tone. “This isn't a lecture, and it's never a sales pitch,” the host explains. “It's about personal experience. People telling their own stories, in their own words.” There are no scripted questions, no product promotions, and no partisan politics... ever, by design. The special episode can be found on The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and across most podcast platforms where listeners will find authentic law enforcement stories. More Than a Police Podcast Despite its title, the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast is not created solely for police officers. In fact, the audience is far broader. With more than 780 free episodes available, and new episodes released every Wednesday and Sunday, the show offers an expansive library of stories that resonate well beyond one profession. Each episode is a conversation, not an interview. Guests are encouraged to speak openly, allowing their experiences to unfold naturally. Podcasts That Are Different: How The Law Enforcement Talk Podcast Reaches Millions for Free. Approximately 75% of the episodes focus on trauma-related stories, often connected to crime. Guests include law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, military members, victims of violent crime, survivors, and family members. These conversations explore the impact of trauma, not only on the individual, but on families, relationships, and long-term purpose. The full podcast episode is streaming now on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. “The trauma doesn't end when the incident does,” one guest explains during an episode. “It follows you home, into your family, into your future.” The remaining 25% of episodes focus on crime investigations, presenting the realities of police work as they truly are, far removed from Hollywood dramatizations. A Familiar Format With a Broad Audience The show's structure mirrors popular television programs, in an audio format, such as The Homicide Hunter and Murder Chose Me. Those shows are not designed exclusively for detectives; they are meant for the general public, offering real stories told by those who lived them. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. The same philosophy applies here. “Many of the guests are current or former police officers,” the host notes, “but the stories aren't just for police. They're for everyone.” Proven Reach and Industry Recognition The show's impact is supported by industry rankings and listener feedback. Podcasts That Are Different: How The Law Enforcement Talk Podcast Reaches Millions for Free. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast is: Ranked #1 Law Enforcement Podcast in the United States by Million Podcasts Ranked Top 45 Law Enforcement Podcasts by Feedspot, currently at #3 Ranked #19 on the Top 100 Indie News Commentary (All-Time) chart by Goodpods Ranked #2 Top Law Enforcement Podcast by Goodpods Ranked #2 Indie Law Enforcement Podcast by Goodpods. What began as a podcast-only project eventually attracted the attention of traditional radio, leading to full national syndication. Today, the show is available via radio, radio satellite, radio internet feeds, and most all major podcast platforms. This Special Episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast available for free on their website, also on Platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most major podcast platforms. His story is also being shared across their Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and other Social Media and News outlets. Beyond Audio: Social Media and Digital Reach The show's presence extends well beyond audio. Supporting articles and features appear on Medium, Blogspot, LinkedIn, IMDb, and Google Business Profiles, alongside daily engagement across Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other social media platforms. The official Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show Facebook page alone has more than 139,000 followers, growing by approximately 2,000 new followers each week. Page insights consistently show a social media reach that continues to expand at a remarkable pace. Why It Matters As podcasting continues to grow, listeners are increasingly drawn to content that is authentic, unscripted, and meaningful. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast fills that space by offering real stories about police, crime, trauma, and resilience, without agendas and without barriers. Podcasts That Are Different: How The Law Enforcement Talk Podcast Reaches Millions for Free. For those looking for podcasts that are different, stories that entertain, inform, educate, challenge, and connect, the show offers one of the largest free libraries of its kind. The full podcast episode is streaming now on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Listeners can follow and listen for free at LETRadio.com, and connect through the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show on Facebook and other social media platforms. In an increasingly crowded podcast landscape, this show continues to stand out by doing something simple, and rare: telling the truth. Background song Hurricane is used with permission from the band Dark Horse Flyer. You can contact John J. “Jay” Wiley by email at Jay@letradio.com , or learn more about him on their website . Stay connected with updates and future episodes by following the show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, their website and other Social Media Platforms. Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. Be sure to check out our website . Be sure to follow us on X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. Listeners can tune in on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform and follow updates on Facebook, Instagram, and other major News outlets. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. You can help contribute money to make the Gunrunner Movie . The film that Hollywood won't touch. It is about a now Retired Police Officer that was shot 6 times while investigating Gunrunning. He died 3 times during Medical treatment and was resuscitated. You can join the fight by giving a monetary “gift” to help ensure the making of his film at agunrunnerfilm.com . Podcasts That Are Different: How The Law Enforcement Talk Podcast Reaches Millions for Free. Attributions: Edison Research Edison Research The Infinite Dial Million Podcasts Feedspot Goodpods Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

S 10 Ep 3: Cosmic Awareness Meets Embodiment with Sharon Hudson

Beyond the Illusion

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2025 60:04

Happy Holidays! ❄️

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Meditación para fin de año: gratitud por lo que ha sido el año

Meditaciones Mindfulness

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2025 12:49

El futuro puede ser incierto, y proponernos metas puede ayudar a que nuestro cerebro lo viva con un poco más de calma

Police Addicted to Drugs And His Amazing Recovery

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2025 38:30

Police Addicted to Drugs And His Amazing Recovery, Special Episode. Police Officer Attacked, Multiple Surgeries, Forced Retirement, Addiction, and an Inspiring Recovery. This special episode is streaming for free on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform Brock Bevell never imagined that a single violent moment would change the entire trajectory of his life. A retired Mesa, Arizona police officer, Brock dedicated his career to public service, until a targeted act of violence ended his time on the job and set him on a painful, unexpected journey through addiction and recovery. Look for The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. “She threw the truck into reverse and hit me,” Brock recalls. “In an instant, everything changed.” Supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . A Career Cut Short by Violence While serving with the Mesa Police Department, Brock was seriously injured during a violent incident involving a vehicle. The attack caused devastating, career-ending injuries and required multiple surgeries. What followed was a long and grueling rehabilitation process, one familiar to many injured officers across the country. Police Addicted to Drugs And His Amazing Recovery, Special Episode. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms. To manage the intense pain, Brock was prescribed opioid pain medication. Like countless patients recovering from serious injuries, he trusted the prescriptions meant to help him heal. Instead, they quietly became the beginning of a much deeper struggle. From Recovery to Addiction During months of surgeries and physical therapy, Brock developed a severe dependence on opioid painkillers. What started as medically prescribed relief slowly evolved into addiction. “I didn't recognize myself anymore,” Brock says. “My world became smaller and darker. I was surviving, not living.” Brock openly shares how addiction affected every part of his life, his relationships, his identity, and his sense of purpose after forced retirement from policing. His story reflects a reality many first responders face but few openly discuss. Police Addicted to Drugs And His Amazing Recovery, Special Episode. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. The Science Behind the Crisis Research underscores just how common Brock's experience is. A major study published in JAMA Internal Medicine by researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine found that patients undergoing 11 common surgeries faced an increased risk of becoming chronic opioid users. Lead author Eric Sun, MD, PhD, explained: “For a lot of surgeries, there is a higher chance of getting hooked on painkillers.” The study defined chronic opioid use as filling 10 or more prescriptions or receiving more than a 120-day supply within a year after surgery. Patients undergoing knee surgery faced the highest risk, nearly five times that of nonsurgical patients, followed by gallbladder surgery. Importantly, the study did not suggest avoiding surgery, but emphasized the need for careful monitoring and alternative pain management strategies. Police Addicted to Drugs And His Amazing Recovery, Special Episode. The interview can be found on The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and across most podcast platforms where listeners will find authentic law enforcement stories. Trauma, Policing, and Substance Use Law enforcement officers face unique occupational hazards, including repeated exposure to trauma. Studies show that substance use disorders, including alcohol and drug dependence, occur at higher rates among officers, particularly those experiencing psychological distress. In nationally representative data, more than half of men with lifetime PTSD also had a history of alcohol abuse or dependence. For police officers, these risks are compounded by work stress, injuries, and the cultural stigma surrounding mental health and asking for help. “We wear the uniform, but we're human,” Brock says. “And sometimes the damage doesn't show until it's almost too late.” The full podcast episode is streaming now on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hitting Bottom and Choosing Recovery Brock's turning point came when he realized addiction had taken everything it could from him. With professional help, support, and unwavering determination, he entered recovery and committed to sobriety. “Recovery didn't give me my old life back,” he says. “It gave me a new one, one with purpose.” Police Addicted to Drugs And His Amazing Recovery, Special Episode. Today, Brock uses his experience to help others struggling with addiction, trauma, and life after law enforcement. His message is clear: recovery is possible, even after profound loss. Healing Beyond the Badge In the aftermath of violence and trauma, communities often look to police officers as symbols of strength. Yet officers themselves must also heal. Proactive wellness programs, mental health resources, and open conversations about addiction are critical, not just for officers, but for the communities they serve. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. Mesa, located just east of Phoenix, is known for its deep history, from the ancient Hohokam culture to the modern city Brock once patrolled. It is also where his story originated, one of resilience, accountability, and hope. Listen to Brock's Story Brock Bevell's journey is featured in this Special Episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast available for free on their website, also on Platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most major podcast platforms. His story is also being shared across their Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and other Social Media and News outlets. Listen to Brock's inspiring account of what happened, how prescribed opioids led to addiction, and how recovery helped him rebuild his life, and helps others do the same. Police Addicted to Drugs And His Amazing Recovery, Special Episode. Because sometimes, the most powerful stories of policing aren't about arrests or badges, but about survival, healing, and redemption. You can help contribute money to make the Gunrunner Movie . The film that Hollywood won't touch. It is about a now Retired Police Officer that was shot 6 times while investigating Gunrunning. He died 3 times during Medical treatment and was resuscitated. You can join the fight by giving a monetary “gift” to help ensure the making of his film at agunrunnerfilm.com . Background song Hurricane is used with permission from the band Dark Horse Flyer. You can contact John J. “Jay” Wiley by email at Jay@letradio.com , or learn more about him on their website . Stay connected with updates and future episodes by following the show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, their website and other Social Media Platforms. Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. Be sure to check out our website . Be sure to follow us on X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. Listeners can tune in on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform and follow updates on Facebook, Instagram, and other major News outlets. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. Police Addicted to Drugs And His Amazing Recovery, Special Episode. Attributions Stanford Medical IACP NIH Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#730 - The Hidden Spiritual History of Christmas! With Gerry Bowler, PhD

moving started medium upgrade function mcdaniel eliminated amas premium episodes

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 25, 2025 59:35

EVEN MORE about this episode!Step into the magic of Christmas with psychic and medical intuitive Julie Ryan and renowned historian Dr. Gerry Bowler as they uncover the hidden spiritual origins and captivating history behind the world's most beloved holiday. From ancient winter rituals and medieval nativity traditions to the evolution of Santa Claus himself, this episode reveals the powerful symbols—angels, light, miracles, and more—that have shaped Christmas across centuries. If you've ever wondered why we celebrate the way we do—or simply want to feel the wonder of the season on a deeper level—this enchanting Christmas special is the perfect holiday treat. Guest Biography:Dr. Gerry Bowler, a historian from Saskatoon with degrees from the University of Saskatchewan and a Ph.D. from King's College London, has spent his career exploring the intersection of religion and popular culture after beginning as a scholar of Medieval and Early-Modern Europe. His wide-ranging work spans studies on The Simpsons, Aristotle and professional wrestling, Wayne Gretzky, and Bloody Mary, though he is best known for his extensive research on the history of Christmas. The author of numerous books—including The World Encyclopedia of Christmas, Santa Claus: A Biography, God and The Simpsons, and Christmas in the Crosshairs—Gerry has also contributed countless articles, encyclopedia entries, op-eds, and edited volumes, with his works translated into multiple languages worldwide. When not writing or teaching, he serves as a Senior Fellow at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, where he humorously “shakes a fist at modern society and tells it to get off his lawn.”Episode Chapters:01:04 Exploring Christmas Traditions with Dr. Gerry Bowler02:13 Medieval Beliefs and Christmas04:25 The Emotional Impact of Christmas08:36 The Evolution of Christmas Traditions11:00 The Role of St. Nicholas and the Reformation14:03 The Reinvention of Christmas in the 19th Century19:09 Personal Reflections on Christmas21:41 Blending Winter Rituals with Christian Traditions24:39 The Star of Bethlehem and the Wise Men29:05 Christmas Markets and Modern Celebrations30:39 Canadian Christmas Inventions32:49 The Evolution of Santa Claus35:48 Rudolph and Commercialism37:26 Nativity Scenes and Their History41:11 Angels in Christmas Lore43:49 Symbolism of Light in Christmas48:11 Midnight Mass and Traditions49:55 Magical Christmas Superstitions51:40 Personal Reflections on Christmas➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Español YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Português YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Deutsch YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Français YouTube✏️Ask Julie a Question!

Video Rewind: Cassie McDaniel: How Medium eliminated its PM function and started moving faster

Design Better Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 27:00

We're taking a holiday break, so we're rewinding to one of our favorite episodes this year with Cassie McDaniel, Medium's head of design. We're also including video from the episode, which you can watch here or on our YouTube channel at dbtr.co/youtube. We hope you have a lovely holiday season with your family, friends, and loved ones. —Eli & Aarron *** Cassie McDaniel, Medium's head of design, is someone with a clear vision for how a design team should work. She believes team members should have a breadth of skills, craft should be the foundation of product design, and experimentation is important in both work and workflow. To that end, Cassie and the leadership team at Medium recently made what some might see as a controversial decision: They eliminated product management. The result? They are moving faster than ever. We chat with Cassie about what led to this decision—and why it might not work for all teams, how she thinks about balancing Medium's legacy of thoughtful design while moving the product forward, and how writing can help you advance your design career. *** Premium Episodes on Design Better This ad-supported episode is available to everyone. If you'd like to hear it ad-free, upgrade to our premium subscription, where you'll get an additional 2 ad-free episodes per month (4 total). Premium subscribers also get access to the documentary Design Disruptors and our growing library of books: You'll also get access to our monthly AMAs with former guests, ad-free episodes, discounts and early access to workshops, and our monthly newsletter The Brief that compiles salient insights, quotes, readings, and creative processes uncovered in the show. And subscribers at the annual level now get access to the Design Better Toolkit, which gets you major discounts and free access to tools and courses that will help you unlock new skills, make your workflow more efficient, and take your creativity further. Upgrade to paid

Grow Leaders From Within, Break Self Limits with Rich Ashton

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 17:19

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Rich Ashton to unpack the real reason small businesses stall. Leadership gaps. Rich shares what he learned across a 45-year career acquiring and turning around small businesses. Hiring “experienced” leaders from outside often fails because they miss the realities of small business and they can break trust with internal teams. Promoting great employees can fail too when people get a title without training. Rich explains how self-imposed limitations show up in frontline employees. From emotional baggage and self-doubt to the belief that “I'm just a technician.” He also lays out what actually works. Practical support, direct feedback, consistent leadership conversations, and a culture rooted in shared values. If you want to build leaders who can run the business without you, this is the blueprint. About the Guest: Rich Ashton is a longtime entrepreneur and operator who developed an internal leadership training program after repeatedly seeing outside hires fail and internal promotions struggle. He is the author of “Growing Your Own. Common Sense Advice for Developing Leaders in Small Business.” Key Takeaways: Outside hires can flop in small businesses because they do not understand the pace, constraints, and culture. Internal promotions fail when people are expected to lead without training and real coaching. Self-imposed limitations often sound like “I'm not leadership material” or show up as emotional reactivity and low confidence. Some employees never saw leadership modeled at home or at work. That shapes what they believe is possible for them. Leadership growth works best as a step-by-step process. Not a one-time workshop. Make development mentally safer by pairing support with clear accountability. Kind but direct beats vague and “nice.” Connection comes first. Leaders get better results when they understand what makes people tick. A simple operating rhythm matters. Rich used bi-weekly leadership blogs and then forced discussion in meetings. That unlocked real behavior change. If you are a business owner you are not automatically a leader. Build your own leadership skills or get help fast. Shared values like integrity, customer service, and employee empowerment create culture alignment and reduce leadership friction. Connect With The Guest: Website and course info: https://www.growingyourown.net/ Email: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty. storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate. this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on: • Mental Health & Emotional Well-being • Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth • Holistic Healing & Conscious Living • Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

High Functioning to Healthy Nervous System Reset with Dr. Melanie Gray

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 23:29

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Dr. Melanie Gray to talk about the hidden cost of being “fine on paper.” High performers. Caregivers. Leaders. People everyone leans on. The big idea is simple. If your nervous system is stuck in survival mode then your success starts feeling like burnout. Dr. Melanie breaks down how trauma responses can disguise themselves as personality traits like perfectionism, people pleasing, shutdown, and overcontrol. You will also hear her STOP-IT framework for moving from reaction to regulation. It is practical. It is leadership-ready. It is built for real life, not wellness fantasy. If you are trying to “fix everything” at once, this conversation will help you zoom out, scan what is working, tell yourself the truth, and make a clean pivot toward sustainable performance, better relationships, and calmer decision-making. About the Guest: Dr. Melanie Gray is a registered nurse, educator, and wellness strategist with 20+ years in healthcare leadership and higher education. She is known for her work in trauma-informed leadership, burnout prevention, and workplace wellness. She is the founder of Melanie Gray Solutions and the author of Regulate First, Lead Second: Master Your Biology, Transform Your Leadership. Key Takeaways: High functioning is not the same as healthy. If you are snapping at people, skipping family time, or feeling constant gut-level stress, your nervous system is waving a red flag. Separate identity from survival. Some behaviors helped you rise, but you still get to choose when to put the brakes on and pivot. Use the STOP-IT framework. Scan your whole life. Tell yourself the truth. Own your yes and no. Prioritize the pivot. Be intentional. Commit to transformation. In a stressful moment, regulate first. Breathe. Unclench. Move your body. Buy time. You do not owe instant responses to emails or people. Boundaries are leadership. You teach people how to treat you by what you tolerate and how quickly you react. Inventory beats hustle. Write down what stress is costing you in relationships, health, energy, and integrity. Then decide what you want to be known for. Empower your team. Stop being the bottleneck. Let smart people be smart. Collaboration reduces overwhelm and upgrades culture. Trauma-informed self-leadership at work means empathy, inclusion, and making space for quieter voices. Quiet does not mean less capable. A 7-day reset works. One STOP-IT moment daily. One small keystone habit. Consistency over perfection. How Listeners Can Connect With Dr. Melanie Gray: Website : https://www.drmelaniegraytheconfidencecoach.com/ Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM . Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty. storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate. This channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on: • Mental Health & Emotional Well-being • Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth • Holistic Healing & Conscious Living • Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters. Subscribe and be part of this healing journey. Contact Brand: Healthy Mind By Avik™ Email: www.healthymindbyavik.com Based in: India & USA Open to collaborations, guest appearances, coaching, and strategic partnerships. Let's connect to create a ripple effect of positivity. CHECK PODCAST SHOWS & BE A GUEST: Listen our 17 Podcast Shows Here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Be a guest on our other shows: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/beaguest Video Testimonial: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/testimonials Join Our Guest & Listener Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ OUR SERVICES Business Podcast Management . https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/corporatepodcasting/ Individual Podcast Management . https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/Podcasting/ Share Your Story With World . https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/shareyourstory STAY TUNED AND FOLLOW US! 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Working Undercover for the ATF

Reknr hosts: The MMT Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 38:49

Working Undercover for the ATF: His Journey, Special Episode. Working undercover for the ATF is not just a job, it is a life lived in shadows, deception, and constant danger. For Lou Valoze, a retired federal agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, that life became his reality for nearly a decade as he infiltrated some of the most violent criminal organizations in the United States. Look for The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. His journey through police work at the federal level reveals the true cost of confronting violent crime head-on, while quietly removing thousands of illegal guns from the streets. This special episode is streaming for free on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform A Life Lived Undercover Lou Valoze's career stands apart even within federal law enforcement circles. As a long-term undercover ATF agent, he specialized in “storefront stings”, covert operations where agents create fake businesses to attract criminals involved in gun trafficking, drugs, and organized crime. Supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . “These criminals believed I was one of them,” Valoze explains. “That was the only way to get close enough to stop them.” By posing as a gun runner, Valoze gained the trust of violent offenders, gang members, and organized crime groups. Over time, those relationships led to the seizure of more than a thousand illegal firearms and the arrest of countless dangerous individuals. Working Undercover for the ATF: His Journey, Special Episode. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms. From Business to Federal Law Enforcement Valoze's path to undercover work was far from typical. With a background in economics and business, he initially pursued a career in banking. Everything changed after a chance conversation with an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration agent. “That single conversation flipped my entire future,” Valoze recalls. “I realized I wanted to serve, to make a real difference.” That decision led him to the Department of Justice and eventually to a 25-year career with the ATF, where his expertise reshaped undercover operations nationwide. Storefront Stings and Violent Crime Storefront stings became Valoze's signature. These operations allowed ATF agents to dismantle criminal networks from the inside, identifying gun traffickers who fueled violent crime by supplying weapons to prohibited persons, gangs, and drug dealers. Working Undercover for the ATF: His Journey, Special Episode. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. “Storefronts gave us something traditional policing couldn't,” Valoze says. “Time, access, and insight into how these groups really operated.” From 2006 to 2014, Valoze's fictitious businesses served as magnets for criminal activity, resulting in thousands of guns seized and millions of dollars' worth of drugs removed from circulation. The Toll of a Double Life While the successes were significant, the personal toll was heavy. Living undercover meant maintaining a constant dual identity, blurring the line between law enforcement and criminal persona. The interview can be found on The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and across most podcast platforms where listeners will find authentic law enforcement stories. “There were moments when it became hard to tell where the undercover role ended and where I began,” Valoze admits. That psychological strain, combined with the ever-present threat of exposure, became one of the most challenging aspects of his career. These experiences are documented in his book, Storefront Sting: An ATF Agent's Life Undercover, co-authored with Brian Whitney. Working Undercover for the ATF: His Journey, Special Episode. Telling the Story: Book, Podcast, and Documentary Published in 2022, Storefront Sting offers an insider's look at one of the most dangerous and successful undercover operations in ATF history. The book chronicles how small-time fencing schemes evolved into deep infiltrations of major criminal organizations. “This story needed to be told,” Valoze says. “Not for me, but so people understand what it takes to take violent criminals off the streets.” His work has since expanded beyond the book. Valoze now shares his journey through speaking engagements, podcast appearances on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast available for free on their website, plus Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and most major podcast platforms. It is also featured across their Facebook, Instagram, and major news platforms like their Medium and Blogspot pages. The full podcast episode is streaming now on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. His operations are also highlighted in the Discovery Channel series Operation Undercover: Guns & Drugs in Carolina, streaming on Discovery, HBO Max, and Investigation Discovery. The documentary provides a rare, in-depth look at the risks, strategy, and human cost of federal undercover work. Protecting Communities Through Federal Policing The ATF's mission is central to Valoze's story. As a federal agency under the Department of Justice, the ATF confronts violent crime involving firearms, explosives, arson, and illegal trafficking. Through advanced crime gun intelligence and partnerships with state and local police, the agency works to dismantle the networks that fuel violence. Working Undercover for the ATF: His Journey, Special Episode. “Every gun we took off the street meant fewer chances for someone to get hurt,” Valoze reflects. A Legacy of Service Today, Lou Valoze is recognized not only as a retired ATF agent, but as an author, speaker, and voice for those who have worked in silence to protect American communities. His journey offers a rare glimpse into the realities of working undercover for the ATF, and the sacrifices required to confront violent crime at its source. “This wasn't about glory,” Valoze says. “It was about doing the job, even when no one could know who you really were.” This Special Episode explores the unseen world of federal undercover policing, where trust is weaponized, danger is constant, and the fight against violent crime happens far from the spotlight. Listeners can tune in on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform and follow updates on Facebook, Instagram, and other major News outlets. You can find the show on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. You can help contribute money to make the Gunrunner Movie . The film that Hollywood won't touch. It is about a now Retired Police Officer that was shot 6 times while investigating Gunrunning. He died 3 times during Medical treatment and was resuscitated. You can join the fight by giving a monetary “gift” to help ensure the making of his film at agunrunnerfilm.com . Background song Hurricane is used with permission from the band Dark Horse Flyer. You can contact John J. “Jay” Wiley by email at Jay@letradio.com , or learn more about him on their website . Stay connected with updates and future episodes by following the show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, their website and other Social Media Platforms. Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. Be sure to check out our website . Be sure to follow us on X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. Working Undercover for the ATF: His Journey, Special Episode. Attributions Amazon.com Lou Valoze ATF.Gov Wikipedia Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#205 Economics At The Movies with Sam Levey

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 92:16

Patricia & Christian talk to economist Dr Sam Levey about films set in the world of finance, including Trading Places, The Big Short, The Wolf Of Wall Street, Boiler Room and Inside Job. (Conversation recorded in 2023). Please help sustain this podcast! Patrons get early access to all episodes and patron-only episodes: https://www.patreon.com/MMTpodcast LIVE EVENT! THE FAUXBEL PRIZE IN ECONOMICS 2026

#729 - Oprah's Producer Reveals Her Spiritual Awakening! With Sheri Salata