Podcasts about Moderation

Politische Debatten finden heute nicht nur im Parlament, sondern auch online statt – und gerade Frauen sehen sich dort massiver Gewalt ausgesetzt. Beleidigungen, Drohungen und Hasskampagnen sind keine Randerscheinungen, sondern ein gezieltes Mittel, um Stimmen im digitalen Diskurs zum Schweigen zu bringen. In dieser Folge von Ganz Offen Gesagt spricht Anna-Lisa Bier mit der Digitalexpertin und Autorin Ingrid Brodnig darüber, wie digitale Gewalt funktioniert, warum Politikerinnen häufig intensiver und gezielter attackiert werden als Männer, warum jene Angriffe sexualisiert und entwertend sind und welche Folgen das für den digitalen Umgangston, Selbstzensur und politische Beteiligung hat. Dabei geht es auch um die Plattformen selbst, wie Algorithmen Hass verbreiten, warum die Moderation von Hasskommentaren oft scheitert und welche Rolle traditionelle Medien bei der Verstärkung von Empörungswellen spielen. Außerdem wird klar, welche rechtlichen Möglichkeiten es gibt, wo sie an ihre Grenzen stoßen und warum bestehende Regeln oft nicht konsequent umgesetzt werden. Beratungsangebote: Digitale Gewalt ist kein individuelles Problem, und ihr müsst damit nicht allein bleiben. Wenn ihr selbst oder Menschen in eurem Umfeld von digitaler Gewalt betroffen seid, gibt es unter anderem folgende Meldestellen und Beratungsangebote, die Unterstützung bieten: Österreich:Zara (Online-Beratung bei Hass im Netz) Frauenhelpline (Anonyme Beratung) Rat auf Draht (Beratung für Kinder, Jugendliche und junge Erwachsene, auch für digitale Probleme) BanHate (App, bei der man österreichweit Hasskommentare melden kann) Weisser Ring (Hilfsorganisation für Opfer von Straftaten in Österreich) Deutschland: HateAid (Meldestelle für Betroffene als auch Beobachter*innen von digitaler Gewalt) Bundesweites Hilfetelefon "Gewalt Gegen Frauen" (Anonyme Beratung, eingerichtet vom Bundesamt für Familie und zivilgesellschaftliche Aufgaben) Meldestelle REspect! Im Netz  Weiterführende Inhalte:Buch "Feindbild Frau" von Ingrid Brodnig (Thalia) Die Gemeinschaftsstandards von Meta Mehr zum eXit NDR-Recherche zur Incel-Szene: Zerrwelt der Frauenhasser - Wie die "Incel"-Szene an Bedeutung gewinnt und wie gefährlich sie ist Abschlussbericht des Radical Awarness Network zum Incel-Phänomen: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2021-08/ran_cn_incel_phenomenon_20210803_de.pdfSafer Internet Jugend Internet Monitor 2026 Wir würden uns sehr freuen, wenn Du "Ganz offen gesagt" auf einem der folgenden Wege unterstützt:Werde Unterstützer:in auf SteadyKaufe ein Premium-Abo auf AppleKaufe Artikel in unserem FanshopSchalte Werbung in unserem PodcastFeedback bitte an redaktion@ganzoffengesagt.atTranskripte und Fotos zu den Folgen findest Du auf podcastradio.at

Eine Stunde tolle Musik mit Moderation. z.B. Louis Armstrong - Hello Dolly, Lisa Bassange - Keep on the Sunny Side, The Blues Brothers & Ray Charles - Shake A Tail Feather, The Soggy Bottom Boys · I Am A Man Of Constant Sorrow, Jazzkantine - jump und noch viele andere.

Alcohol consumption in the United States is declining. Gallup reports that only 54% of Americans now drink — the lowest level recorded in decades — and nearly half of Americans say they are actively trying to drink less.On the surface, this sounds like clear progress.But in this episode, Molly explores an important question raised by Dr. Adi Jaffe in a recent article: Are we truly becoming more emotionally resilient… or are we simply swapping one escape route for another?As cannabis use rises alongside declining alcohol consumption, it's worth examining whether substitution equals transformation — or whether real change requires something deeper.This episode unpacks the cultural shift away from alcohol, the rise in cannabis use, and the critical distinction between behavioral change and emotional growth.In This Episode, You'll Learn:The latest statistics on declining alcohol consumption in the U.S.Why cannabis use is increasing as alcohol use declinesWhat research says about cannabis use and alcohol reductionThe difference between substitution and emotional resilienceWhy simply replacing alcohol doesn't necessarily change your relationship with discomfortHow psychological dependence operates beneath surface-level behavior changeThe core beliefs that often drive alcohol useA simple self-reflection exercise to assess your own coping patternsKey Statistics Discussed54% of Americans report drinking alcohol (Gallup 2025)Nearly half of Americans are trying to drink less65% of Gen Z plans to cut down or abstain from alcoholApproximately 178,000 alcohol-related deaths occur annually in the U.S.41% of young adults report cannabis use in the past year29% report past-month cannabis use10.8% report daily cannabis useAbout 3 in 10 cannabis users are at risk of Cannabis Use DisorderThe Core QuestionReducing alcohol is meaningful.But emotional resilience is something deeper.This episode challenges you to consider:If alcohol disappeared tomorrow, what would you reach for?Are you choosing relaxation — or needing escape?Have your behaviors changed… or have your beliefs changed?True transformation happens when you dismantle the belief that you need something outside of yourself to manage your internal state.Resources MentionedDr. Adi JaffeThe Abstinence Myth by Dr. Adi JaffeUnhooked by Dr. Adi JaffeSunnyside mindful drinking app (15-day free trial available)Monitoring the Future (University of Michigan)CDC Cannabis Use DataHarvard Health on cannabis vs. alcohol risksBrown University study on cannabis and alcohol consumptionLow risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Harrison Ward, also known as Fell Foodie, drank more than 20 pints a day, smoked like a chimney, battled clinical depression in silence and reached a moment where he believed there were only two ways out. Today I sit down with the man behind the outdoor cooking phenomenon to unpack addiction, withdrawal, mental health and the decision that saved his life. Harrison shares the reality behind addiction, drinking culture and the hidden loneliness of high-masking depression. From working in pubs while drinking heavily to climbing a mountains during withdrawal, this is a raw exploration of what happens when escape stops working and honesty begins.Together they explore why alcohol can feel like medicine before it becomes a prison, how depression can quietly shape behaviour from teenage years onwards, and why many people suffer in silence long before anyone notices. Harrison speaks openly about peer pressure, shame, identity and the fear of speaking honestly about mental health, especially growing up in environments where vulnerability felt impossible.Harrison explains how sobriety allowed him to rediscover purpose through food, nature and creativity, cooking restaurant-quality meals on remote mountainsides and sharing hope with thousands online. Oliver and Harrison also discuss cravings, withdrawal, rebuilding self-worth, going public about sobriety and the practical options available for anyone struggling with alcohol or depression today. If you or someone you love is struggling, this conversation offers honesty without judgement and hope without clichés.Now, over 9 years sober, Harrison has fused his love of food with the healing power of the outdoors. He's hiking the fells of Cumbria and cooking restaurant quality meals on a simple camp stove in the mountains, and sharing his story to show others that recovery is possible.He's been featured on the BBC with Mary Berry, Channel 5's ‘Winter on the Farm', Countryfile Magazine, Men's Fitness, and more. He's a bestselling author, a keynote speaker, and a brand ambassador. Oliver is an ambassador for Alcohol Change UK and you can access support here - https://tinyurl.com/5dt5773e Thank you to Gavin Sisters for sponsoring this episode! Visit -www.gavinsisters.co.uk and use promo code SCHOOLOFROCKBOTTOM for 10% off! T-Shirt from The Recovery Cartel -www.therecoverycartel.co.ukhttps://www.instagram.com/therecoverycartelPodcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you! https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1Or via PayPal - https://www.paypal.me/olivermason1paypal Topics -0:00 Trailer & Intro 3:30 A rock bottom moment 5:20 Using alcohol to escape 7:30 Depression as a teenager 10:30 Mental health was not talked about before 11:45 Drinking 20 pints a day!16:40 Was Harrison a high functioning alcoholic?19:00 Is high functioning addiction worse?22:50 The moment I decided to stop drinking 28:30 Moderation and doing a geographical 36:00 Withdrawal and depression 40:00 Climbing a mountain in withdrawal!45:20 From hurting to healing 47:40 Dealing with cravings & peer pressure 51:45 Finding passion for cooking 54:00 Going public about sobriety 56:45 Options for help to go sober and fighting depression Follow HarrisonWebsite - https://www.fellfoodie.co.ukInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/fellfoodie Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fellfoodie/YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/FellFoodieTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@fellfoodieTwitter - https://twitter.com/FellFoodieFollow OliverInstagram - https://tinyurl.com/2vt29sjvFacebook - https://tinyurl.com/34cwz59rTikTok - https://tinyurl.com/ujw4vxn9LinkedIn - https://tinyurl.com/yuemhnd7Threads - https://tinyurl.com/yk7vdeahX - https://tinyurl.com/3u5mnpds Watch/Listen -YouTube - https://youtu.be/7UW29Hp7rBYSpotify - https://tinyurl.com/djmdvpjrApple - https://tinyurl.com/y3n2chk3 #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #MentalHealth

In this level of Linux Out Loud, Nate takes player‑one controls with Wendy and Matt as co‑op buddies for a run‑and‑gun through data disasters, platform drama, and hopeful Linux gaming news. Matt kicks things off with a catastrophic cold‑storage failure that turns into a hard‑earned reminder about backups and the limits of data‑recovery tools on both Windows and Linux. Wendy then opens a side‑quest about Discord's upcoming age‑verification changes, why that's a problem for community privacy and moderation, and what it might mean for the future home of the Lobby of Loudness. Nate rounds out the host updates with Linux Saloon going fully independent, moving show notes and polls onto CubicleNate.com so he controls the platform and the ad dollars. For the main mission, the crew dives into GOG calling Linux its “next major frontier” for GOG GALAXY and hiring a senior C++ engineer to help make Linux a first‑class gaming citizen instead of an afterthought. Along the way they talk heroic launchers, Proton and Wine, and what a “good citizen” GOG client on Linux should actually look like for home‑labbed and multi‑PC setups. Show Links: GOG job posting – “Senior Software Engineer (C++ GOG GALAXY)”: https://www.gog.com/en/work/senior-software-engineer-c-gog-galaxy Linux Saloon show notes and polls: https://CubicleNate.com/LinuxSaloon https://CubicleNate.com/polls

Get Fitness Lab (20% off for listeners), the #1 coaching app that adapts to YOUR recovery, YOUR schedule, and YOUR body. Build muscle, lose fat, and get stronger with daily personalized guidance. —Why does “just eat in moderation” fail so often? Why do binge eating and emotional eating feel stronger than your willpower? I'm joined by psychologist and former food industry insider Dr. Glenn Livingston to break down what's actually happening in your brain. We unpack the neuroscience of cravings and why a healthy brain can struggle in a hyperpalatable food environment. You'll learn how food cues override hunger signals and quietly sabotage your nutrition and fitness goals. If you want to build muscle, lose fat, or improve body recomp, you need to understand why rigid calorie cutting and relying on willpower almost always backfire. That's why we talk about engineering your environment instead of fighting yourself. We focus on structure, clear food rules, and reducing decision fatigue so you're not negotiating with cravings all day. You'll walk away with evidence-based strategies that make sustainable weight loss possible without constant mental friction.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – What cravings really are6:25 – What causes cravings13:25 – Managing triggers and food cues21:29 – Extinction bursts explained30:45 – Rules vs willpower39:48 – Identity and habit engineering51:50 – Free resources to defeat cravingsEpisode resources:Free Book (and bonuses): Defeat Your Cravings - The Back Door to Weight LossFacebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550719047966LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drglennlivingston YouTube: @DefeatYourCravings 

Please enjoy this InterGalactic Healing Session using the InterGalactics Healing Method Level 5 Frequencies on Mastery. In this third session we use the InterGalactic Moderation Frequency and the InterGalactics Non-Dual Frequency.We first work with pursuing power and grace in a balanced way.  We keep all our subtle bodies, wants, and needs balanced throughout as we use the InterGalactics Moderation Frequency.  We then move on to utilizing the InterGalactic Non-Dual Frequency to understand reality in a deeper manner.  We look into the nature of mind and the nature of who we really are.

In diesem SPRICH:STUTTGART Takeover geht es um Ankommen, Zuhören und die Kraft von Mentoring. Beim vierten Podcast-Marathon im Kulturwerk Stuttgart zeichnet Caren Moirongo von der Bürgerstiftung Stuttgart ihren Weg von Kenia nach Deutschland nach – und spricht von den Herausforderungen beim Thema „Integration“. Es geht um Sprachbarrieren, kulturelle Missverständnisse und die Bedeutung von Menschen, die begleiten statt belehren. Im Mittelpunkt des Podcasts steht das Programm „welcomeMEntor“, das Neuzugewanderten mit engagierten Mentor:innen aus der Stadtgesellschaft zusammenbringt. Das Ziel: Sich für den Einzelnen engagieren, um den gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt zu stärken. Caren schildert: Mentoring ist dabei mehr als „nur“ Hilfe – es ist gelebter Austausch auf Augenhöhe. Hosts dieser Folge sind die Master-Studentin Paula Agarwalla und Maximilian Wöhr, beide Absolvent:innen des Qualifikationsprogramms Moderation am Institut für Moderation (imo) an der Hochschule der Medien Stuttgart. SPRICH:STUTTGART – der Podcast für und über Stuttgart:⁠ www.sprichstuttgart.de⁠ und auf Instagram sprichstuttgart_podcast (aufgezeichnet beim Podcastmarathon am 24.10.2025, online ab 20.02.2026).

Schönbrunn kennt man. Aber nicht so! Wir besichtigen eines der besterhaltenen barocken Gesamtkunstwerke Europas und sprechen mit Claudia Paul, der Abteilungsleiterin der Abteilung Schönbrunn der Burghauptmannschaft. Als UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe ist das Ensemble nicht nur ein kultureller Schatz, sondern auch mit einer besonderen Verpflichtung verbunden: Jede Renovierung muss mit größter Sorgfalt und Rücksicht auf die historische Substanz erfolgen. Wir tauchen ein in die Welt der alten Handwerkstechniken, hören von mysteriösen Legenden und falschen Architekten.  Zur Website der Burghauptmannschaft Österreich: www.burghauptmannschaft.at

In this week's Think Thursday, Molly builds on last week's conversation about overwhelm and takes it one level deeper—into uncertainty and the brain's fundamental need for coherence.Many people say, “I'm overwhelmed by everything.” But often, what they're describing isn't simply busyness. It's destabilization. The pace of technological change, the relentless news cycle, economic uncertainty, global conflict, and cultural instability create a steady stream of input that the human brain was not designed to process.Our brains evolved for village-level information flow—not constant global exposure in real time.The Brain as a Prediction MachineModern neuroscience describes the brain as a prediction engine. Researchers such as Karl Friston (predictive processing theory) suggest that the brain's primary job is not just to react to reality, but to anticipate it.Your brain is constantly generating internal forecasts about what is likely to happen next. It builds models of what is safe, familiar, and probable. When those models align with experience, the brain operates efficiently. Monitoring decreases. Stress drops. Calm increases.But when prediction fails—when the future feels unstable or unclear—the brain increases vigilance. Cortisol rises. The amygdala becomes more reactive. Monitoring intensifies.Uncertainty is not just emotionally uncomfortable. It is neurologically expensive.Research comparing predictable and unpredictable stressors shows that unpredictable stress can create stronger physiological responses than predictable stress—even when the predictable stressor is objectively worse. The brain often prefers a known negative outcome to an unknown one because predictability allows preparation, and preparation reduces perceived threat.Coherence vs. AmbiguityResearchers such as Travis Proulx and Steven Heine have explored how disruptions in meaning and narrative coherence increase anxiety and motivate the brain to restore order. Coherence stabilizes the nervous system. Ambiguity destabilizes it.When someone says, “I'm overwhelmed by everything,” that word everything represents a collapse of hierarchy and narrative. The brain cannot model everything at once. It cannot prioritize everything simultaneously. So it defaults to alarm.Language plays a powerful role here. Molly revisits her recent quote:“Every time you replace ‘I'm overwhelmed' with ‘I need to decide what matters most and go slow,' your brain stops firing alarm signals and starts organizing information again.”While this shift does not immediately shut down the amygdala, research on cognitive reappraisal by psychologist James Gross shows that reframing increases prefrontal cortex activity and decreases amygdala activation over time. Changing language changes the predictive model the brain uses.Molly also revisits a core Alcohol Minimalist concept: thoughts are both descriptive and prescriptive. Repeating “I'm overwhelmed” reinforces a future expectation. The brain uses repeated thoughts as data. Language influences prediction.Why This Feels Amplified NowThe modern nervous system is metabolizing more information than at any point in human history. Our brains evolved to monitor a small social circle, not global crises, economic forecasts, political unrest, and technological revolutions delivered instantly.When input exceeds the brain's capacity to construct stable models:Uncertainty risesScanning increasesStress increasesCognitive flexibility decreasesThis is not fragility. It is neurobiology.And it has direct implications for behavior change.The brain invests effort when it believes the future is navigable. When the future feels chaotic, it shifts toward short-term safety behaviors—scrolling, avoidance, comfort-seeking, and returning to familiar habits—not because discipline has disappeared, but because predictability feels safer than uncertainty. Coherence builds confidence. Confidence supports effort. Effort sustains behavior change.When coherence drops, consistency often drops with it.Five Ways to Restore CoherenceWhile you cannot eliminate global uncertainty, you can restore local coherence. The brain does not require certainty everywhere. It requires stability somewhere.Here are five actionable steps:Narrow the time horizon.Focus on today or tomorrow rather than the entire month or year. Short predictive loops are easier for the brain to manage.Identify what is controllable.Research shows perceived control reduces amygdala activation. Even one controllable action restores agency.Establish one predictable ritual.A consistent morning routine, defined work block, or nightly wind-down creates stability the brain can model.Limit interpretive overload.Too many possible explanations increase cognitive load. Choose the most useful interpretation instead of entertaining every hypothetical scenario.Build one daily evidence loop.Follow through on one manageable commitment each day. Predictable behavior strengthens the brain's trust in its own forecasting.Each of these steps restores hierarchy. Each reduces prediction error. Each sends a stabilizing signal to the nervous system.You are telling your brain: “The world may be uncertain, but my behavior has structure.”The Bottom LineYour brain does not require absolute certainty in order to function well. It requires enough pattern to feel oriented. Enough structure to reduce constant monitoring. Enough stability to believe its predictions will not be continuously disrupted.You cannot calm the entire world. But you can restore order in your immediate sphere.When coherence returns, clarity follows. ★ Support this podcast ★

Die Tage werden langsam wieder länger, die Sonne lässt sich öfter blicken – ciao Winterblues und ewige Erkältung, hallo Frühlingsgefühle! Spätestens jetzt holen viele wieder ihre Dating-Profile aus dem Winterschlaf und suchen nach neuen Bekanntschaften. In #Vienna sprechen wir deshalb über das Abenteuer Online-Dating in Wien: über perfekte Dating-Snacks, romantische Ideen fürs erste Treffen – und, natürlich, über schräge Erfahrungen. Die macht man beim Online-Dating nämlich auf jeden Fall. Zum Beispiel am sogenannten "Tinderstrich". So wird online scherzhaft die Gegend rund um die Zollergasse im 7. Bezirk beschrieben, weil dort so viele Dates stattfinden. Dieser Podcast ist ein Ausschnitt aus der #Vienna-Sendung auf Radio Radieschen vom 19. Februar 2026. Moderation und Gestaltung: Hannah Jutz und Vincent Leb.

How many times have you tried to “just drink less”… only to end up right back where you started? In this episode, I'm talking about the hard but freeing truth behind repeated failed attempts at moderation — and the thinking patterns that keep high-achieving women stuck in the cycle of overdrinking. If you've ever told yourself: • “I'll only drink on weekends.” • “I'll switch to wine.” • “I just need better rules.” • “This time will be different.” …this episode is for you. We're diving into the disordered thinking that protects alcohol instead of protecting you — including moving goalposts, alcohol amnesia, the “just one more try” loop, and the illusion of control that keeps you negotiating instead of deciding. No shame here, just clarity. You'll learn: • How to recognize when moderation isn't working for you • Why your brain keeps convincing you to try again • The difference between perseverance and avoidance • When it might be time to stop managing your drinking and make a clear decision If you're tired of thinking about alcohol all the time…tired of starting over…tired of proving you “should” be able to control it… This Stop Over-drinking and Start Living Podcast episode is a conversation is for women who are sober curious, cutting back on alcohol, taking a break, or exploring a healthier relationship with drinking and with themselves. If you're ready to explore private coaching or attending a Magic House Retreat in Lisbon to transform your relationship with alcohol at a deeper level, you can book a Clarity Call here: https://www.angelamascenik.com/claritycallAnd check out the last 3 spots in the May Magic House Retreat in Lisbon!https://www.angelamascenik.com/magichousefounderscircle

Toxisch, Trauma, Trigger: Solchen Begriffen begegnen wir auf Social Media - und inzwischen auch in Alltagsgesprächen - ständig. Sind das Beschreibungen, die unser Leben erleichtern, oder verhindern sie, unsere Gefühle zu verstehen und zu beschreiben? In dieser Folge des Wissenschaftsradios hören wir dazu Angelika Purkathofer, Psychiaterin und Fachärztin für psychotherapeutische Medizin. Außerdem dabei: Mental Health-Influencerin Vanessa Ebert, besser bekannt als "nessadhs". Dieser Podcast ist ein Ausschnitt aus der Wissenschaftsradio-Sendung auf Radio Radieschen vom 17. Februar 2026. Moderation und Gestaltung: Sarah Roland.

Darum geht's diese Woche im Pendler-Update: Der Verbraucherpreisindex 2026 wird modernisiert – Energie, Lebensmittel, Streaming und Pflege bekommen mehr Gewicht. Die Gewerkschaften fordern höhere Mindestlöhne, faire Arbeitszeiten und sichern das Gesundheitssystem. Außerdem: Die deutschen Grenzkontrollen bleiben bis September bestehen und verlängern die Pendelzeiten. Und bei Luxair häufen sich Flugumleitungen und Sicherheitslandungen – Ärger bei Anschlussflügen und Geschäftsreisen inklusive.­ ­ Schreibt uns eure Fragen und Anregungen gerne an pendler@wort.lu! ­ Der Pendler Club ist ein Podcast vom Luxemburger Wort. Mediahuis Luxembourg sind Teil des internationalen Trust Project, das für transparenten und vertrauenswürdigen Journalismus steht. Weitere Informationen dazu gibt es hier. ­ Moderation und Produktion: Jil Reale Redaktion: Luxemburger WortSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly reflects on what would have been her mother's 95th birthday and the years lost not only at the end of her life, but throughout decades spent in active addiction. With compassion and clarity, she explores the difference between alcohol dependence and alcohol reliance, and why that distinction matters more than most people realize.Drawing from her recent conversation with Dr. Charles Knowles , Molly breaks down the difference between the small percentage of adults who are physically dependent on alcohol and the much larger group who fall into gray area drinking or alcohol reliance. She explains how neuroadaptation occurs over time, how reinforced thought patterns shape behavior, and why learned helplessness can quietly keep people stuck.This episode is not about blame. It is about progression, influence, and the hopeful reality that most people questioning their drinking are not powerless. Through science, reflection, and practical questions, Molly invites listeners to examine the beliefs that may be giving alcohol more authority than it actually has.In This Episode:Reflecting on the years lost to active addictionThe difference between alcohol dependence and alcohol relianceThe 2 to 3 percent statistic on physical dependenceThe 20 percent gray area drinking categoryHow neuroadaptation and tolerance develop over timeDopamine as a learning signal, not just a pleasure chemicalCue conditioning and incentive salienceThe psychology of learned helplessnessWhy belief shapes behavior and behavior reinforces beliefAlcohol's health risks, including cancer and sleep disruptionWhy low risk drinking guidelines reduce harm, not riskThe importance of examining your belief system around alcoholKey Takeaways:Physical dependence develops gradually through repeated reinforcement and neuroadaptation.Most people questioning their drinking are not physically dependent but are operating in reinforced patterns.Alcohol influences the brain but does not automatically remove agency unless long term dependence has shifted the baseline.Beliefs such as “Once I start, I can't stop” can strengthen neural expectation and reduce effort.Small cognitive shifts precede behavioral shifts, and repeated behavior reshapes the brain.Questions to Reflect On This Week:What belief about alcohol might you be carrying that deserves closer examination?Is there a sentence you repeat internally such as “I need it to relax” or “It helps me connect” that feels solid and unquestioned?What might happen if you approached that belief with curiosity rather than judgment?What is one small step you can take this week to observe rather than act automatically?Resources Mentioned:Molly's interview with Dr. Charles Knowles Alcohol Truths: How Much Is Too Much?If you are questioning your relationship with alcohol, remember that awareness is the first step. Change does not require a dramatic declaration. It begins with curiosity, clarity, and small shifts practiced steadily over time.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

In Los Angeles hat ein Prozess gegen die grossen Social-Media-Firmen Meta, Google und Snapchat begonnen. Die Klägerin wirft den Firmen vor, ihre Jugend durch gezielte Suchtmechanismen ruiniert zu haben. Depressionen, Essstörungen und Suizidgedanken – die Vorwürfe wiegen schwer und betreffen eine ganze Generation. Korrespondentin Marie-Astrid Langer erklärt, warum dieser Prozess eine neue Ära einläutet. Es geht nicht mehr nur um die Moderation von Inhalten, sondern um das Design der Plattformen selbst. Interne Dokumente legen nahe, dass sich Mitarbeiter bei Facebook und Instagram ihrer Rolle durchaus bewusst waren. Doch wie stehen die Chancen, dass die Kläger tatsächlich gegen die Tech-Giganten gewinnen? Gast: Marie-Astrid Langer, USA-Korrespondentin Host: Simon Schaffer Den Hintergrund zu diesen Prozessen findest du [hier](https://www.nzz.ch/technologie/der-tabak-moment-von-social-media-junge-erwachsene-beschuldigen-instagram-tiktok-und-co-sie-suechtig-gemacht-zu-haben-ld.1923401). Für ein Probeabo der NZZ gehts [hierlang](https://abo.nzz.ch/25077808-2).

Algorithmus des Teufels (Kriminalroman) – Georg Brun im Gespräch mit Uwe Kullnick(Hördauer ca. 13 Minuten) Lesung, (Hördauer ca. 60 Minuten) GesprächEin Toter am Bodensee, erhängt an einem Baum. Selbstmord? Der Fall scheint klar, doch Emil, der Bruder des Toten, glaubt das nicht. Er geht der Sache auf den Grund und sät bei der jungen Kommissarin Jennifer Häfele Zweifel. Sie ermittelt auf eigene Faust und stößt auf ein mysteriöses Computerprogramm.Mord in einer öffentlichen Tiefgarage in München. Der letzte Fall für Hauptkommissar August Wutz zeigt sich kompliziert. Die Mörderin ist tot. Die offiziellen Ermittlungen werden eingestellt. Aber August vermutet einen Auftragsmord und gräbt tiefer. Eine heiße Spur führt ins Internet.Jennifer und August schalten das Landeskriminalamt ein. Unheimliche Parallelen tun sich auf. Steckt hinter beiden Todesfällen eine teuflische Künstliche Intelligenz? Ein rasantes Katz-und-Maus-Spiel beginnt.„Algorithmus des Teufels“ ist ein hochaktueller Thriller zum Thema „Künstliche Intelligenz“ mit aberwitzigen Wendungen.Georg Brun - Vergehen und Verbrechen aus interessanten Bereichen des Lebens garantieren spannende Unterhaltung. Seit drei Jahren schreibt er Krimis. Als früherer Kriminalbeamter und später jahrelang im Wissenschaftsbereich tätiger Jurist weiß er, wovon er schreibt. Ob in der Olga-Reihe sanfte Krimis oder mit dem pensionierten Hauptkommissar Nathan Weiß knallharte Thrills: Seine handfesten Charaktere wissen zu fesseln, die aktuellen Themen packen. Krimis mit Herz und Verstand.vielleicht mögen Sie auch diese Sendung Kommen Sie doch auch einfach mal zu unseren Live-Aufzeichnungen nach SchwabingTechnik und Schnitt: Jupp Stepprath, Moderation, Redaktion und Realisation Uwe Kullnick

Auf den Färöern leben 55.000 Menschen. Seit Jahrzehnten streben viele von ihnen die komplette Loslösung von Dänemark an. Als Donald Trump seine Fühler nach Grönland ausstreckt, bessert sich die Verhandlungsposition der Färöer. Zumindest in der Theorie. Moderation? Kevin Schulte Sie haben Fragen? Schreiben Sie eine E-Mail an podcasts@ntv.de Sie möchten "Wieder was gelernt" unterstützen? Dann bewerten Sie den Podcast gerne bei Apple Podcasts oder Spotify. Dieser Podcast wird vermarktet von Julep Media: sales@julep.de

Many people are saying the same thing lately: “I'm overwhelmed by everything.”In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores what overwhelm actually is from a neuroscience perspective. Is it just busyness? Or is something deeper happening in the brain?Drawing from research on the amygdala, stress hormones, working memory, and executive function, Molly explains how overwhelm is not about volume alone. It is about perceived overload and a loss of prioritization. When the brain detects too many competing demands and not enough resources, it shifts from organizing to alarming.This episode also revisits a recent WisdomWednesday quote about replacing “I'm overwhelmed” with “I need to decide what matters most and go slow.” Molly clarifies why that statement is directionally true but not neurologically instant. She explains how language influences prediction, prediction shapes physiology, and physiology drives behavior.What You'll LearnWhy overwhelm is a perception of overload, not simply busynessHow the amygdala flags cognitive threatWhat happens to the prefrontal cortex under stressWhy everything feels urgent when executive function is compromisedThe difference between descriptive and prescriptive thoughtsHow repeating “I'm overwhelmed” reinforces neural prediction loopsWhy prioritization restores cognitive flexibilityHow cognitive reappraisal shifts neural activity over timeKey Concepts ExplainedPerceived Overload Overwhelm occurs when the brain interprets demands as exceeding available resources.Amygdala Activation When ambiguity, uncertainty, and competing priorities rise, the amygdala signals threat, increasing stress hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine.Executive Function The prefrontal cortex is responsible for planning, sequencing, prioritizing, and organizing. Under stress, its efficiency decreases.Descriptive vs Prescriptive Thinking Some thoughts label experience. Others shape future experience. Repeating “I'm overwhelmed” reinforces prediction patterns that sustain the feeling.Cognitive Reappraisal Research shows that reinterpreting a situation increases prefrontal cortex activity and decreases amygdala activation over time.Why Language MattersWhen you repeatedly say “I'm overwhelmed,” your brain begins scanning for confirming evidence. Increased vigilance raises stress. Stress reduces clarity. Reduced clarity reinforces overwhelm.Replacing that statement with a prioritizing phrase does not instantly shut down the alarm system. However, it recruits executive function and begins shifting neural activity toward organization and task-based thinking.Language guides prediction. Prediction guides physiology. Physiology guides behavior.Practical ReframeInstead of:“I'm overwhelmed.”Try:What matters most today?What is the next smallest step?What can wait?This is not positive thinking. It is restoring organizing capacity.Overwhelm signals that prioritization has collapsed. Prioritization is a skill that can be strengthened.Behavior Change ConnectionPeople often abandon habits when they feel overwhelmed, not because they lack discipline, but because executive function is compromised.You cannot build new neural pathways from a chronically alarmed state.Restoring order supports follow-through. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week's roundup of the latest news in online speech, content moderation and internet regulation, Ben is joined by Dr Blake Hallinan, Professor of Platform Studies in the Department of Media & Journalism Studies at Aarhus University. Together, they discuss:On Section 230's 30th Birthday, A Look Back At Why It's Such A Good Law And Why Messing With It Would Be Bad (Techdirt)An 18-Million-Subscriber YouTuber Just Explained Section 230 Better Than Every Politician In Washington (Techdirt)Discord Launches Teen-by-Default Settings Globally (Discord)Media Literacy Parent's study (GOV.UK)EU says TikTok must disable ‘addictive' features like infinite scroll, fix its recommendation engine (Techcrunch)We Didn't Ask for This Internet with Tim Wu and Cory Doctorow (The New York Times)Despite Meta's ban, Fidesz candidates successfully posted 162 political ads on Facebook in January 9 (Lakmusz.hu)Claude's Constitution Needs a Bill of Rights and Oversight (Oversight Board)Account Closed Without Notice: Debanking Adult Industry Workers in Canada (ResearchGate)Play along with Ctrl-Alt-Speech's 2026 Bingo Card and get in touch if you win! Ctrl-Alt-Speech is a weekly podcast from Techdirt and Everything in Moderation. Send us your feedback at podcast@ctrlaltspeech.com and sponsorship enquiries to sponsorship@ctrlaltspeech.com. Thanks for listening.

Seit Jahren streitet Großbritannien mit Mauritius über eine winzige Inselgruppe im Indischen Ozean - und neuerdings auch mit Donald Trump. Der britische Premier Starmer kündigt einen Deal an, den der US-Präsident erst gut, dann schlecht und jetzt wieder gut findet. Es geht um den Chagos-Archipel mit der Hauptinsel Diego Garcia. Winzig wie Norderney, aber militärstrategisch enorm wichtig für die USA. Moderation? Kevin Schulte Sie haben Fragen? Schreiben Sie eine E-Mail an podcasts@ntv.de Sie möchten uns unterstützen? Dann bewerten Sie den Podcast gerne bei Apple Podcasts oder Spotify. Sie haben Fragen? Schreiben Sie eine E-Mail an podcasts@ntv.de Sie möchten "Wieder was gelernt" unterstützen? Dann bewerten Sie den Podcast gerne bei Apple Podcasts oder Spotify. Dieser Podcast wird vermarktet von Julep Media: sales@julep.de

The Bowhunter Chronicles Podcast - Episode 388: Digital Deer Camp - Walter Lee - Welcome to the Fire In this episode of The Bowhunter Chronicles, Adam Miller and Walt Lee IV sit down to reflect on the past hunting season and explore what it truly means to be an intentional hunter. From battling cold weather in the whitetail woods to simplifying gear and expectations, the conversation digs into practical lessons learned through real time in the field. Adam and Walt discuss cold weather bowhunting strategies, mindset over gear, and how preparation, experience, and presence matter more than the latest equipment. They also examine how social media and modern marketing have shaped the hunting industry, often creating unrealistic expectations that clash with the realities of public land and everyday hunters. The episode goes deeper into the balance between control and luck in hunting, the importance of setting realistic goals, and why many hunters choose to pass deer others would gladly shoot. Beyond tags filled, the conversation highlights the adventure of hunting and fishing, personal growth through time outdoors, and the value of building a supportive hunting community. The discussion wraps with a look at Digital Deer Camp and its mission to create a positive, respectful space where hunters can learn, connect, and grow together—keeping the focus on enjoying the outdoors and making the most of local hunting opportunities. Topics Covered: Cold weather bowhunting tips and gear considerations Hunting mindset vs. equipment obsession Setting realistic goals and managing expectations The role of luck, control, and preparation in hunting success Social media's impact on the hunting industry Building community through Digital Deer Camp Finding fulfillment beyond the kill Chapters00:00 The Podcast Journey Begins 02:19 Weathering the Cold: Tips and Tricks 05:10 Reflections on the Hunting Season 07:37 Cold Weather Gear: What Works 10:07 Simplifying Hunting Gear and Strategies 12:59 The Mindset of Successful Hunters 15:29 The Balance of Gear and Experience 18:33 Intentional Hunting vs. Aspirational Hunting 33:22 Intentionality vs. Aspiration in Hunting 39:26 The Tale of Two Brothers: Different Hunting Goals 45:21 Reflections on the Hunting Season 54:42 Evolution of Mindset in the Hunting Industry 59:42 The Role of Control and Luck in Hunting 01:04:50 Understanding the Nuances of Hunting Success 01:10:12 Setting Realistic Goals in Hunting 01:16:25 Pursuing a Balanced Outdoor Lifestyle 01:25:54 Building a Positive Hunting Community 01:33:46 Building a Community: The Digital Deer Camp Vision 01:36:49 Moderation and Self-Policing in Digital Spaces 01:39:02 Membership Tiers and Community Engagement 01:42:33 Future Aspirations and Growth of Digital Deer Camp 01:45:10 Marketing Strategies and Word of Mouth 01:47:05 Personal Connections and Hunting Experiences https://www.paintedarrow.com - BHC15 for 15% off https://www.spartanforge.ai (https://www.spartanforge.ai/)  - save 25% with code bowhunter   https://www.latitudeoutdoors.com (https://www.latitudeoutdoors.com/) s https://www.zingerfletches.com (https://www.zingerfletches.com/) https://huntworthgear.com/ https://www.lucky-buck.com (https://www.lucky-buck.com/) https://www.bigshottargets.com (https://www.bigshottargets.com/)   https://genesis3dprinting.com (https://genesis3dprinting.com/) https://vitalizeseed.com (https://vitalizeseed.com/) http://bit.ly/BHCPatreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hadley Sorensen didn't stop drinking four years ago because everything fell apart. She quit because something felt off, even though from the outside, her drinking looked completely normal. That intuitive hit led her to do what only 1% of people ever do – write the book she couldn't find: The Dirty Truth on Social Drinking: "Everything in Moderation" and Other BS. Hadley talks about how she is dismantling the toxic narratives around "mommy wine juice culture" which can keep you stuck in shame, and the belief that you need a dramatic reason to quit. You don't need to keep doing something that makes you feel like crap just because everyone else is.   IN THIS EPISODE: Why moderate alcohol use can leave you feeling out of alignment and stuck in shame The surprising discoveries Hadley made about her friendships since ditching alcohol Why Hadley lost followers when she stopped being the "wine-loving fitness mom"  Why she wrote the book she desperately needed and couldn't find anywhere  How mommy wine juice culture is evolving from sippy cups to perimenopause jokes   LINKS/RESOURCES MENTIONED Learn more about Hadley Sorensen's book, The Dirty Truth on Social Drinking. Euphoric the Club is the club where successful women who don't drink (and the women who are becoming them) grow together. Get access to all of my alcohol-free programs and methodology for only $62.  If you know you're meant to help other people change their relationship with alcohol and create a profitable online brand, get on the waitlist for the Empowered AF Coach 5x Certification – and get 5x certified as a world class alcohol-free empowerment coach, mindset coach, success coach, NLP practitioner, and hypnosis practitioner. Join during the month of February and get the early bird rate. Awarded the most empowering book in the sober curious genre, be sure to get your copy of Euphoric: Ditch Alcohol and Gain a Happier, More Confident You today and leave a review. Follow @euphoric.af on Instagram. And as always, rate, review, and subscribe so we can continue spreading our message far and wide.

Learning never ends , refuse to be a sheep, question those unwilling to explain. Hypocrisy works one way. Truth will always set us free   Platonic, the studio, has anyone seen Megan 2.0? Code 3, uncharted, the machine, the unholy trinity, valiant one, hand maidens tale sequel.   What's in lunch meat ? Moderation makes eating easier, water fasting, brocolli chicken pasta. Weeknight butter chicken, cesar supreme salad.   Happy Tuesday stars

summaryIn this episode of Vitality Made Simple, Dr. Debbie Ozment discusses the importance of viewing health through a biblical lens, emphasizing vitality over mere longevity. She explores the benefits of garlic, particularly in its raw and fermented forms, highlighting its medicinal properties and impact on gut health. The conversation also touches on practical strategies for enhancing vitality through simple, natural remedies, and the importance of moderation in consumption.takeawaysVitality encompasses spirit, soul, and body.Health should be viewed through a biblical perspective.It's essential to focus on basic health strategies.Garlic has been used for centuries for its health benefits.Fermented garlic is easier on the stomach than raw garlic.Garlic can improve heart health and lipid profiles.Garlic has antimicrobial properties and can boost immunity.Fermented honey garlic is a delicious and beneficial remedy.Garlic enhances gut health by increasing beneficial bacteria.Moderation is key when consuming garlic and other health foods.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical or dental advice. Any mention of products, services, tests, or supplements is not an endorsement and may include affiliate links. Guest views are their own and may not reflect the views of Dr. Debbie Ozment or this podcast. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice specific to your situation.Visit my website DrDebbieOzment.com for valuable free downloads. Additionally, you will find shopping links which I have curated on the website. Please follow me on instagram at drdebbieozment.

In this special bonus for Ctrl-Alt-Speech listeners, we're cross-posting an episode from the Future Around And Find Out podcast hosted by Dan Blumberg with guest Kwaku Aning.This week Dan and Kwaku dig into: The uncanny valley that is AI agents and Moltbook—the "Reddit" that agents built for themselves to complain about humans, create a religion, and behave in ways that freak humans out Anthropic takes aim at OpenAI with a Super Bowl ad that's spicy (for cubs and cougars alike) We read Claude's "Constitution" and ask: Should AI do what you ask it to do—or what it thinks you really want long-term? Why Dan switched from OpenAI to Claude (and what he learned about tone, capability, and custom projects) OpenAI scrambles; the market stumbles; Jensen Huang acts like Sam Altman is "just someone I used to know" How AEO (AI Engine Optimization) becomes critical in an AI-agent world—and what that means for brand, marketing, and search Why social media is already past (dark social won) Elon's pivot to humanoid robots, data centers in space, and other cool things we definitely need Are we setting higher ethical standards for machines than for tech leaders? Subscribe to FAFO wherever you get your podcasts, or at futurearound.com Ctrl-Alt-Speech is a weekly podcast from Techdirt and Everything in Moderation. Send us your feedback at podcast@ctrlaltspeech.com and sponsorship enquiries to sponsorship@ctrlaltspeech.com. Thanks for listening.

Today we have Lewis. He is 39 years old from Burlington, VT and he took his last rink of alcohol on June 12th, 2025.   This episode is brought to you by:   Sign up and get 10% off: Better Help   August 12th – 16th: Get ready to elevate your alcohol-free life in Big Sky Country. Join RE in Bozeman, Montana for our annual sober summer retreat. Registration opens April 1st. This isn't your typical retreat. We're talking adventure, laughter and deep bonds with people who get it. This retreat will remind you why choosing freedom over booze was the best decision you ever made.   [01:52] Thoughts from Paul:   This week, Paul talks about something that doesn't get discussed enough in recovery: patience and preparation.   Getting sober takes time. Preparing for your new life takes time. Some people are able to spontaneously quit drinking and never look back, but most have to slowly build momentum before trust falling into an alcohol-free life.   Some of you may have been listening to this podcast for years and feeling guilty for still drinking – DON'T. Maybe you think you are failing because you haven't quit yet. You're NOT. You are in preparation mode and intentional preparation is sacred work.   Every time you question whether alcohol is worth it, you're gathering intelligence. Every moment you imagine life without drinking; you're building the mental map you'll need for the actual journey.   This week, give yourself permission to be exactly where you are. If you're still drinking and listening, you're right where you need to be. It doesn't matter if you quit yesterday, last month or several years ago, you're right where you need to be.   [06:46] Paul introduces Lewis:   Lewis is 39 years old and grew up in Australia but now lives in Burlington, VT.  He runs a business. For fun, Lewis likes run and being outdoors snowboarding, surfing, eat good food and hang out with friends.   Lewis grew up with two brothers, who he is still close with, and says they had a great childhood living in a remote area in Western Australia. He tried alcohol for the first time when he was 14 and loved it immediately.   Lewis' drinking took off while attending university in Perth where the social life mainly revolved around alcohol. He didn't realize at the time that he was drinking more than others. He completed his studies in Canada where his drinking escalated because he was away from family and responsibilities. The drinking became a daily habit when he began his career as a bartender while in Greece.   Lewis moved back to Australia and began working in a brewery. He enjoyed that fact that there were less people there judging him. He knew his drinking was problematic when more and more negative things started happening, but he wasn't ready to confront it. There were many attempts to moderate, and he was able to take breaks, but never got it completely under control.   In 2020, Lewis realized he was powerless over alcohol but wasn't ready to accept it. Moderation attempts continued and Lewis moved to Vermont hoping the geographical cure would help him. He was a binge drinker, so daily drinking wasn't a concern for him, but he began having falls and missing work due to his binges.   On his last binge, it finally occurred to him that if he kept going, he was going to lose everything or die. He woke up last June and made the decision to finally stop drinking.   Lewis joined AA and found a great community within it. He started out going to at least five meetings a week and found a sponsor in a friend he had previously met at the gym while he was still drinking. Lewis is very open about his recovery and has found that most people have been very supportive.    Tools that are helpful to Lewis include podcasts, quit-lit, The Phoenix (sober workout community), his higher power and AA. Lewis is learning he can make plans, have goals and follow through with them.   Recovery Elevator You took the elevator down You gotta take the stairs back up. We can do this!       RE Instagram Sobriety Tracker iTunes  RE YouTube Café RE      

Last time we spoke about The Battle of Suixian–Zaoyang-Shatow. Following the brutal 1938 capture of Wuhan, Japanese forces aimed to solidify their hold by launching an offensive against Chinese troops in the 5th War Zone, a rugged natural fortress in northern Hubei and southern Henan. Under General Yasuji Okamura, the 11th Army deployed three divisions and cavalry in a pincer assault starting May 1, 1939, targeting Suixian and Zaoyang to crush Nationalist resistance and secure flanks. Chinese commander Li Zongren, leveraging terrain like the Dabie and Tongbai Mountains, orchestrated defenses with over 200,000 troops, including Tang Enbo's 31st Army Group. By May 23, they recaptured Suixian and Zaoyang, forcing a Japanese withdrawal with heavy losses, over 13,000 Japanese casualties versus 25,000 Chinese, restoring pre-battle lines. Shifting south, Japan targeted Shantou in Guangdong to sever supply lines from Hong Kong. In a massive June 21 amphibious assault, the 21st Army overwhelmed thin Chinese defenses, capturing the port and Chao'an despite guerrilla resistance led by Zhang Fakui. Though losses mounted, Japan tightened its blockade, straining China's war effort amid ongoing attrition.   #188 From Changkufeng to Nomonhan Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. Well hello again, and yes you all have probably guessed we are taking another detour. Do not worry I hope to shorten this one a bit more so than what became a sort of mini series on the battle of Changkufeng or Battle of Lake Khasan. What we are about to jump into is known in the west as the battle of khalkin Gol, by the Japanese the Nomohan incident. But first I need to sort of set the table up so to say. So back on August 10th, 1938 the Litvinov-Shigemitsu agreement established a joint border commission tasked with redemarcating the disputed boundary between the Soviet Union and Japanese-controlled Manchukuo. However, this commission never achieved a mutually agreeable definition of the border in the contested area. In reality, the outcome was decided well before the group's inaugural meeting. Mere hours after the cease-fire took effect on the afternoon of August 11, General Grigory Shtern convened with a regimental commander from Japan's 19th Division to coordinate the disengagement of forces. With the conflict deemed "honorably" concluded, Japan's Imperial General Headquarters mandated the swift withdrawal of all Japanese troops to the west bank of the Tumen River. By the night of August 13, as the final Japanese soldier crossed the river, it effectively became the de facto border. Soviet forces promptly reoccupied Changkufeng Hill and the adjacent heights—a move that would carry unexpected and profound repercussions. Authoritative Japanese military analyses suggest that if negotiations in Moscow had dragged on for just one more day, the 19th Division would likely have been dislodged from Changkufeng and its surrounding elevations. Undoubtedly, General Shtern's infantry breathed a sigh of relief as the bloodshed ceased. Yet, one can't help but question why Moscow opted for a cease-fire at a juncture when Soviet troops were on the cusp of total battlefield triumph. Perhaps Kremlin leaders deemed it wiser to settle for a substantial gain, roughly three-quarters of their objectives, rather than risk everything. After all, Japan had mobilized threatening forces in eastern Manchuria, and the Imperial Army had a history of impulsive, unpredictable aggression. Moreover, amid the escalating crisis over Czechoslovakia, Moscow may have been wary of provoking a broader Asian conflict. Another theory posits that Soviet high command was misinformed about the ground situation. Reports of capturing a small segment of Changkufeng's crest might have been misinterpreted as control over the entire ridge, or an imminent full takeover before midnight on August 10. The unexpected phone call from Foreign Minister Maxim Litvinov to the Japanese embassy that night—proposing a one-kilometer Japanese retreat in exchange for a cease-fire along existing lines—hints at communication breakdowns between Shtern's headquarters and the Kremlin. Ironically, such lapses may have preserved Japanese military honor, allowing the 19th Division's evacuation through diplomacy rather than defeat. Both sides endured severe losses. Initial Japanese press reports claimed 158 killed and 740 wounded. However, the 19th Division's medical logs reveal a grimmer toll: 526 dead and 914 injured, totaling 1,440 casualties. The true figure may have climbed higher, possibly to 1,500–2,000. Following the armistice, the Soviet news agency TASS reported 236 Red Army fatalities and 611 wounded. Given Shtern's uphill assaults across open terrain against entrenched positions, these numbers seem understated. Attackers in such scenarios typically suffered two to three times the defenders' losses, suggesting Soviet casualties ranged from 3,000 to 5,000. This aligns with a Soviet Military Council investigation on August 31, 1938, which documented 408 killed and 2,807 wounded. Japanese estimates placed Soviet losses even higher, at 4,500–7,000. Not all victims perished in combat. Marshal Vasily Blyukher, a decorated Soviet commander, former warlord of the Far East, and Central Committee candidate, was summoned to Moscow in August 1938. Relieved of duty in September and arrested with his family in October, he faced charges of inadequate preparation against Japanese aggression and harboring "enemies of the people" within his ranks. On November 9, 1938, Blyukher died during interrogation a euphemism for torture-induced death.Other innocents suffered as well. In the wake of the fighting, Soviet authorities deported hundreds of thousands of Korean rice farmers from the Ussuri region to Kazakhstan, aiming to eradicate Korean settlements that Japanese spies had allegedly exploited. The Changkufeng clash indirectly hampered Japan's Wuhan offensive, a massive push to subdue China. The influx of troops and supplies for this campaign was briefly disrupted by the border flare-up. Notably, Kwantung Army's 2nd Air Group, slated for Wuhan, was retained due to the Soviet threat. Chiang Kai-shek's drastic measure, breaching the Yellow River dikes to flood Japanese advance routes—further delayed the assault. By October 25, 1938, when Japanese forces captured Hankow, Chiang had relocated his capital to distant Chungking. Paradoxically, Wuhan's fall cut rail links from Canton inland, heightening Chiang's reliance on Soviet aid routed overland and by air from Central Asia. Japan secured a tactical win but missed the decisive blow; Chinese resistance persisted, pinning down a million Japanese troops in occupation duties. What was the true significance of Changkufeng? For General Koiso Suetaka and the 19th Division, it evoked a mix of bitterness and pride. Those eager for combat got their share, though not on their terms. To veterans mourning fallen comrades on those desolate slopes, it might have felt like senseless tragedy. Yet, they fought valiantly under dire conditions, holding firm until a retreat that blended humiliation with imperial praise, a bittersweet inheritance. For the Red Army, it marked a crucial trial of resolve amid Stalin's purges. While Shtern's forces didn't shine brilliantly, they acquitted themselves well in adversity. The U.S. military attaché in Moscow observed that any purge-related inefficiencies had been surmounted, praising the Red Army's valor, reliability, and equipment. His counterpart in China, Colonel Joseph Stilwell, put it bluntly: the Soviets "appeared to advantage," urging skeptics to rethink notions of a weakened Red Army. Yet, by World War II's eve, many British, French, German, and Japanese leaders still dismissed it as a "paper tiger." Soviet leaders appeared content, promoting Shtern to command the Transbaikal Military District and colonel general by 1940, while honoring "Heroes of Lake Khasan" with medals. In a fiery November 7, 1938, speech, Marshal Kliment Voroshilov warned that future incursions would prompt strikes deep into enemy territory. Tokyo's views diverged sharply. Many in the military and government saw it as a stain on Imperial Army prestige, especially Kwantung Army, humiliated on Manchukuo soil it swore to protect. Colonel Masanobu Tsuji Inada, however, framed it as a successful reconnaissance, confirming Soviet border defense without broader aggression, allowing the Wuhan push to proceed safely. Critics, including Major General Gun Hashimoto and historians, questioned this. They argued IGHQ lacked contingency plans for a massive Soviet response, especially with Wuhan preparations underway since June. One expert warned Japan had "played with fire," risking Manchuria and Korea if escalation occurred. Yet, Japanese commanders gleaned few lessons, downplaying Soviet materiel superiority and maintaining disdain for Red Army prowess. The 19th Division's stand against outnumbered odds reinforced this hubris, as did tolerance for local insubordination—attitudes that would prove costly. The Kremlin, conversely, learned Japan remained unpredictable despite its China quagmire. But for Emperor Hirohito's intervention, the conflict might have ballooned. Amid purges and the Czech crisis, Stalin likely viewed it as a reminder of eastern vulnerabilities, especially with Munich advancing German threats westward. Both sides toyed with peril. Moderation won in Tokyo, but Kwantung Army seethed. On August 11, Premier Fumimaro Konoye noted the need for caution. Kwantung, however, pushed for and secured control of the disputed salient from Chosen Army by October 8, 1938. Even winter's chill couldn't quench their vengeful fire, setting the stage for future confrontations. A quick look at the regional map reveals how Manchukuo and the Mongolian People's Republic each jut into the other's territory like protruding salients. These bulges could be seen as aggressive thrusts into enemy land, yet they also risked encirclement and absorption by the opposing empire. A northward push from western Manchuria through Mongolia could sever the MPR and Soviet Far East from the USSR's heartland. Conversely, a pincer movement from Mongolia and the Soviet Maritime Province might envelop and isolate Manchukuo. This dynamic highlights the frontier's strategic volatility in the 1930s. One particularly tense sector was the broad Mongolian salient extending about 150 miles eastward into west-central Manchukuo. There, in mid-1939, Soviet-Japanese tensions erupted into major combat. Known to the Japanese as the Nomonhan Incident and to the Soviets and Mongolians as the Battle of Khalkhin Gol, this clash dwarfed the earlier Changkufeng affair in scale, duration, and impact. Spanning four months and claiming 30,000 to 50,000 casualties, it amounted to a small undeclared war, the modern era's first limited conflict between great powers. The Mongolian salient features vast, semiarid plains of sandy grassland, gently rolling terrain dotted with sparse scrub pines and low shrubs. The climate is unforgivingly continental: May brings hot days and freezing nights, while July and August see daytime highs exceeding 38°C (100°F in American units), with cool evenings. Swarms of mosquitoes and massive horseflies necessitate netting in summer. Rainfall is scarce, but dense morning fogs are common in August. Come September, temperatures plummet, with heavy snows by October and midwinter lows dipping to –34°C. This blend of North African aridity and North Dakotan winters supports only sparse populations, mainly two related but distinct Mongol tribes. The Buriat (or Barga) Mongols migrated into the Nomonhan area from the northwest in the late 17th to early 18th centuries, likely fleeing Russian expansion after the 1689 Treaty of Nerchinsk. Organized by Manchu emperors between 1732 and 1735, they settled east of the river they called Khalkhin Gol (Mongolian for "river"), in lands that would later become Manchukuo. The Khalkha Mongols, named for the word meaning "barrier" or "shield," traditionally guarded the Mongol Empire's northern frontiers. Their territories lay west of the Buriats, in what would become the MPR. For centuries, these tribes herded livestock across sands, river crossings, and desert paths, largely oblivious to any formal borders. For hundreds of years, the line dividing the Mongolian salient from western Manchuria was a hazy administrative divide within the Qing Empire. In the 20th century, Russia's detachment of Outer Mongolia and Japan's seizure of Manchuria transformed this vague boundary into a frontline between rival powers. The Nomonhan Incident ignited over this contested border. Near the salient's northeastern edge, the river, called Khalkhin Gol by Mongols and Soviets, and Halha by Manchurians and Japanese, flows northwest into Lake Buir Nor. The core dispute: Was the river, as Japan asserted, the historic boundary between Manchukuo and the MPR? Soviet and MPR officials insisted the line ran parallel to and 10–12 miles east of the river, claiming the intervening strip. Japan cited no fewer than 18 maps, from Chinese and Japanese sources, to support the river as the border, a logical choice in such barren terrain, where it served as the sole natural divider. Yet, Soviets and Mongolians countered with evidence like a 1919 Chinese postal atlas and maps from Japanese and Manchukuoan agencies (1919–1934). Unbeknownst to combatants, in July 1939, China's military attaché in Moscow shared a 1934 General Staff map with his American counterpart, showing the border east of the river. Postwar Japanese studies of 18th-century Chinese records confirm that in 1734, the Qing emperor set a boundary between Buriat and Khalkha Mongols east of the river, passing through the hamlet of Nomonhan—as the Soviets claimed. However, Kwantung Army Headquarters dismissed this as non-binding, viewing it as an internal Qing affair without Russian involvement. Two former Kwantung Army officers offer a pragmatic explanation: From 1931 to 1935, when Soviet forces in the Far East were weak, Japanese and Manchukuoan authorities imposed the river as the de facto border, with MPR acquiescence. By the mid- to late 1930s, as Soviet strength grew, Japan refused to yield, while Mongolians and Soviets rejected the river line, sparking clashes. In 1935, Kwantung Army revised its maps to align with the river claim. From late that year, the Lake Buir Nor–Halha sector saw frequent skirmishes between Manchukuoan and MPR patrols. Until mid-1938, frontier defense in northwestern Manchukuo fell to the 8th Border Garrison Unit , based near Hailar. This 7,000-man force, spread thin, lacked mobility, training, and, in Kwantung Army's eyes, combat readiness. That summer, the newly formed 23rd Division, under Kwantung Army, took station at Hailar, absorbing the 8th BGU under its command, led by Lieutenant General Michitaro Komatsubara. At 52, Komatsubara was a premier Russian specialist in the Imperial Army, with stints as military attaché in the USSR and head of Kwantung's Special Services Agency in Harbin. Standing 5'7" with a sturdy build, glasses, and a small mustache, he was detail-oriented, keeping meticulous diaries, writing lengthy letters, and composing poetry, though he lacked combat experience. Before departing Tokyo in July 1938, Komatsubara received briefings from Colonel Masazumi Inada, AGS Operations Section chief. Amid planning for Changkufeng, Inada urged calm on the Manchukuo-MPR border given China's ongoing campaigns. Guidelines: Ignore minor incidents, prioritize intelligence on Soviet forces east of Lake Baikal, and study operations against the Soviet Far East's western sector. Familiar with the region from his Harbin days, Komatsubara adopted a low-key approach. Neither impulsive nor aggressive, he kept the green 23rd Division near Hailar, delegating patrols to the 8th BGU. An autumn incident underscores his restraint. On November 1, 1938, an 8th BGU patrol was ambushed by MPR forces. Per Japanese accounts, the three-man team, led by a lieutenant, strayed too close to the border and was attacked 50 meters inside Manchukuo. The lieutenant escaped, but his men died. Komatsubara sent an infantry company to secure the site but forbade retaliation. He pursued body recovery diplomatically, protested to MPR and Soviet officials, and disciplined his officers: garrison leaders got five days' confinement for poor troop training, the lieutenant thirty days. Despite this caution, pressures at AGS and KwAHQ were mounting, poised to thrust the 23rd Division into fierce battle. Modern militaries routinely develop contingency plans against potential adversaries, and the mere existence of such strategies doesn't inherently signal aggressive intentions. That said, shifts in Japan's operational planning vis-à-vis the Soviet Union may have inadvertently fueled the Nomonhan Incident. From 1934 to 1938, Japanese war scenarios emphasized a massive surprise assault in the Ussuri River region, paired with defensive holding actions in northwestern Manchuria. However, between mid-1938 and early 1939, a clandestine joint task force from the Army General Staff  and Kwantung Army's Operations Departments crafted a bold new blueprint. This revised strategy proposed containing Soviet forces in the east and north while unleashing a full-scale offensive from Hailar, advancing west-northwest toward Chita and ultimately Lake Baikal. The goal: sever the Transbaikal Soviet Far East from the USSR's core. Dubbed Plan Eight-B, it gained Kwantung Army's endorsement in March 1939. Key architects—Colonels Takushiro Hattori and Masao Terada, along with Major Takeharu Shimanuki—were reassigned from AGS to Kwantung Army Headquarters to oversee implementation. The plan anticipated a five-year buildup before execution, with Hattori assuming the role of chief operations staff officer.  A map review exposes a glaring vulnerability in Plan Eight-B: the Japanese advance would leave its southern flank exposed to Soviet counterstrikes from the Mongolian salient. By spring 1939, KwAHQ likely began perceiving this protrusion as a strategic liability. Notably, at the outbreak of Nomonhan hostilities, no detailed operational contingencies for the area had been formalized. Concurrently, Japan initiated plans for a vital railroad linking Harlun Arshan to Hailar. While its direct tie to Plan Eight-B remains unclear, the route skirted perilously close to the Halha River, potentially heightening KwAHQ's focus on the disputed Mongolian salient. In early 1939, the 23rd Division intensified reconnaissance patrols near the river. Around this time, General Grigory Shtern, freshly appointed commander of Soviet Far Eastern forces, issued a public warning that Japan was gearing up for an assault on the Mongolian People's Republic. As Plan Eight-B took shape and railroad proposals advanced, KwAHQ issued a strikingly confrontational set of guidelines for frontier troops. These directives are often cited as a catalyst for the Nomonhan clash, forging a chain linking the 1937 Amur River incident, the 1938 Changkufeng debacle, and the 1939 conflict.Resentment had festered at KwAHQ over perceived AGS meddling during the Amur affair, which curtailed their command autonomy. This frustration intensified at Changkufeng, where General Kamezo Suetaka's 19th Division endured heavy losses, only for the contested Manchukuoan territory to be effectively ceded. Kwantung Army lobbied successfully to wrest oversight of the Changkufeng salient from Chosen Army. In November 1938, Major Masanobu Tsuji of KwAHQ's Operations Section was sent to survey the site. The audacious officer was dismayed: Soviet forces dominated the land from the disputed ridge to the Tumen River. Tsuji undertook several winter reconnaissance missions. His final outing in March 1939 involved leading 40 men to Changkufeng's base. With rifles slung non-threateningly, they ascended to within 200 yards of Soviet lines, formed a line, and urinated in unison, eliciting amused reactions from the enemy. They then picnicked with obentos and sake, sang army tunes, and left gifts of canned meat, chocolates, and whiskey. This theatrical stunt concealed Tsuji's real aim: covert photography proving Soviet fortifications encroached on Manchukuoan soil. Tsuji was a singular figure. Born of modest means, he embodied a modern samurai ethos, channeling a sharp intellect into a frail, often ailing body through feats of extraordinary daring. A creative tactician, he thrived in intelligence ops, political scheming, aerial scouting, planning, and frontline command—excelling across a tumultuous career. Yet, flaws marred his brilliance: narrow bigotry, virulent racism, and capacity for cruelty. Ever the ambitious outsider, Tsuji wielded outsized influence via gekokujo—Japan's tradition of subordinates steering policy from below. In 1939, he was a major, but his pivotal role at Nomonhan stemmed from this dynamic. Back in Hsinking after his Changkufeng escapade, Tsuji drafted a response plan: negotiate border "rectification" with the Soviets; if talks failed, launch an attack to expel intruders. Kwantung Army adopted it. Deputy Chief of Staff Major General Otozaburo Yano flew to Tokyo with Tsuji's photos, seeking AGS approval. There, he was rebuffed—Changkufeng was deemed settled, and minor violations should be overlooked amid Tokyo's aversion to Soviet conflict. Yano's plea that leniency would invite aggression was countered by notes on Europe's tensions restraining Moscow. Yano's return sparked outrage at KwAHQ, seen as AGS thwarting their imperial duty to safeguard Manchukuo. Fury peaked in the Operations Section, setting the stage for Tsuji's drafting of stringent new frontier guidelines: "Principles for the Settlement of Soviet-Manchukuoan Border Disputes." The core tenet: "If Soviet troops transgress the Manchukuoan frontiers, Kwantung Army will nip their ambitions in the bud by completely destroying them." Specific directives for local commanders included: "If the enemy crosses the frontiers … annihilate him without delay, employing strength carefully built up beforehand. To accomplish our mission, it is permissible to enter Soviet territory, or to trap or lure Soviet troops into Manchukuoan territory and allow them to remain there for some time… . Where boundary lines are not clearly defined, area defense commanders will, upon their own initiative, establish boundaries and indicate them to the forward elements… . In the event of an armed clash, fight until victory is won, regardless of relative strengths or of the location of the boundaries. If the enemy violates the borders, friendly units must challenge him courageously and endeavor to triumph in their zone of action without concerning themselves about the consequences, which will be the responsibility of higher headquarters." Major Tsuji Masanobu later justified the new guidelines by pointing to the "contradictory orders" that had hamstrung frontier commanders under the old rules. They were tasked with upholding Manchukuo's territorial integrity yet forbidden from actions that might spark conflict. This, Tsuji argued, bred hesitation, as officers feared repercussions for decisive responses to incursions. The updated directives aimed to alleviate this "anxiety," empowering local leaders to act boldly without personal liability. In truth, Tsuji's "Principles for the Settlement of Soviet-Manchukuoan Border Disputes" were more incendiary than conciliatory. They introduced provocative measures: authorizing commanders to unilaterally define unclear boundaries, enforce them with immediate force "shoot first, ask questions later", permit pursuits into enemy territory, and even encourage luring adversaries across the line. Such tactics flouted both government policy and official army doctrine, prioritizing escalation over restraint. The proposals sparked intense debate within Kwantung Army's Operations Section. Section chief Colonel Takushiro Hattori and Colonel Masao Terada outranked Tsuji, as did Major Takeharu Shimanuki, all recent transfers from the Army General Staff. Tsuji, however, boasted longer tenure at Kwantung Army Headquarters since April 1936 and in Operations since November 1937, making him the de facto veteran. Hattori and Terada hesitated to challenge the assertive major, whose reputation for intellect, persuasion, and deep knowledge of Manchuria commanded respect. In a 1960 interview, Shimanuki recalled Tsuji's dominance in discussions, where his proactive ideas often swayed the group. Unified, the section forwarded Tsuji's plan to Kwantung Army Command. Commander Lieutenant General Kenkichi Ueda consulted Chief of Staff General Rensuke Isogai and Vice Chief General Otozaburo Yano, seasoned leaders who should have spotted the guidelines' volatility. Yet, lingering grudges from AGS "interference" in past incidents like the Amur River and Changkufeng clouded their judgment. Ueda, Isogai, and Tsuji shared history from the 1932 Shanghai Incident: Tsuji, then a captain, led a company in the 7th Regiment under Colonel Isogai, with Yano as staff officer and Ueda commanding the 9th Division. Tsuji was wounded there, forging bonds of camaraderie. This "clique," which grew to include Hattori, Terada, and Shimanuki, amplified Tsuji's influence. Despite Isogai's initial reservations as the group's moderate voice, the guidelines won approval. Ueda issued them as Kwantung Army Operations Order 1488 on April 25, 1939, during a division commanders' conference at KwAHQ. A routine copy reached AGS in Tokyo, but no formal reply came. Preoccupied with the China War and alliance talks with Germany, AGS may have overlooked border matters. Colonel Masazumi Inada, AGS Operations head, later noted basic acceptance of Order 1488, with an informal expectation—relayed to Hattori and Terada—of prior consultation on violations. KwAHQ dismissed this as another Tokyo intrusion on their autonomy. Some Japanese analysts contend a stern AGS rejection might have prevented Nomonhan's catastrophe, though quelling Kwantung's defiance could have required mass staff reassignments, a disruptive step AGS avoided. Tsuji countered that permitting forceful action at Changkufeng would have deterred Nomonhan altogether, underscoring the interconnectedness of these clashes while implicitly critiquing the 1939 battle's location. Undeniably, Order 1488's issuance on April 25 paved the way for conflict three weeks later. Japanese records confirm that Khalkha Mongols and MPR patrols routinely crossed the Halha River—viewed by them as internal territory, 10 miles from the true border. Such crossings passed uneventfully in March and April 1939. Post-Order 1488, however, 23rd Division commander General Michitaro Komatsubara responded aggressively, setting the stage for escalation. The Nomonhan Incident ignited with a border clash on May 11–12, 1939, that rapidly spiraled into a major conflict. Over a dozen "authoritative" accounts exist, varying in viewpoint, focus, and specifics. After cross-referencing these sources, a coherent timeline emerges. On the night of May 10–11, a 20-man Mongolian People's Republic border patrol crossed eastward over the Halha River (known as Khalkhin Gol to Mongols and Soviets). About 10 miles east, atop a 150-foot sandy hill, lay the tiny hamlet of Nomonhan, a cluster of crude huts housing a few Mongol families. Just south flowed the Holsten River, merging westward into the broader Halha. By morning on May 11, Manchukuoan forces spotted the MPR patrol north of the Holsten and west of Nomonhan. In the MPR/Soviet perspective, Nomonhan Hill marked the Mongolia-Manchuria border. To Manchukuoans and Japanese, it sat 10 miles inside Manchukuo, well east of the Halha. A 40-man Manchukuoan cavalry unit repelled the Mongolians back across the river, inflicting initial casualties on both sides—the Manchukuoans drawing first blood. The MPR patrol leader exaggerated the attackers as 200 strong. The next day, May 12, a 60-man MPR force under Major P. Chogdan evicted the Manchukuoans from the disputed zone, reestablishing positions between the Halha and Nomonhan. The Manchukuoans, in turn, reported facing 700 enemies. Sporadic skirmishes and maneuvering persisted through the week. On May 13, two days post-clash, the local Manchukuoan commander alerted General Michitaro Komatsubara's 23rd Division headquarters in Hailar. Simultaneously, Major Chogdan reported to Soviet military command in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's capital. What began as a Mongolian-Manchukuoan spat was poised to draw in Soviet and Japanese patrons. Attributing the May 10–11 violation hinges on border interpretations: both sides claimed the Halha-Nomonhan strip. Yet, most accounts concur that Manchukuoan forces initiated the fighting. Post-May 13 notifications to Moscow and Tokyo clarify the record thereafter. Midday on May 13, Komatsubara was leading a staff conference on the newly issued Kwantung Army Operations Order 1488—Major Tsuji Masanobu's aggressive border guidelines. Ironically, the first Nomonhan combat report arrived mid-discussion. Officers present recall Komatsubara deciding instantly to "destroy the invading Outer Mongolian forces" per Order 1488. That afternoon, he informed Kwantung Army Headquarters of the incident and his intent to eradicate the intruders, requesting air support and trucks. General Kenkichi Ueda, Kwantung commander, approved Komatsubara's "positive attitude," dispatching six scout planes, 40 fighters, 10 light bombers, two anti-aircraft batteries, and two motorized transport companies. Ueda added a caveat: exercise "extreme caution" to prevent escalation—a paradoxical blend of destruction and restraint, reflective of KwAHQ's fervent mood. Ueda relayed the details to Tokyo's Army General Staff, which responded that Kwantung should handle it "appropriately." Despite Kwantung's impulsive reputation, Tokyo deferred, perhaps trusting the northern strategic imbalance, eight Japanese divisions versus 30 Soviet ones from Lake Baikal to Vladivostok, would enforce prudence. This faith proved misguided. On May 14, Major Tsuji flew from KwAHQ for aerial reconnaissance over Nomonhan, spotting 20 horses but no troops. Upon landing, a fresh bullet hole in his plane confirmed lingering MPR presence east of the Halha. Tsuji briefed 23rd Division staff and reported to Ueda that the incident seemed minor. Aligning with Order 1488's spirit, Komatsubara deployed a force under Lieutenant Colonel Yaozo Azuma: an armored car company, two infantry companies, and a cavalry troop. Arriving at Nomonhan on May 15, Azuma learned most MPR forces had retreated westward across the Halha the prior night, with only token elements remaining, and those withdrawing. Undeterred, he pursued. The advance met scant resistance, as foes had crossed the river. However, Japanese light bombers struck a small MPR concentration on the west bank, Outpost Number 7, killing two and wounding 15 per MPR reports; Japanese claimed 30–40 kills. All agree: the raid targeted undisputed MPR territory. Hearing of May 15's events, Komatsubara deemed the Mongolians sufficiently rebuked and recalled Azuma to Hailar on May 16. KwAHQ concurred, closing the matter. Soviet leaders, however, saw it differently. Mid-May prompted Soviet support for the MPR under their 1936 Mutual Defense Pact. The Red Army's 57th Corps, stationed in Mongolia, faced initial disarray: Commander Nikolai Feklenko was hunting, Chief of Staff A. M. Kushchev in Ulan Ude with his ill wife. Moscow learned of clashes via international press from Japanese sources, sparking Chief of Staff Boris Shaposhnikov's furious inquiry. Feklenko and Kushchev rushed back to Ulaanbaatar, dispatching a mixed force—a battalion from the 149th Infantry Regiment (36th Division), plus light armor and artillery from the 11th Tank Brigade—to Tamsag Bulak, 80 miles west of the Halha. Led by Major A. E. Bykov, it bolstered the MPR's 6th Cavalry Division. Bykov and Cavalry Commander Colonel Shoaaiibuu inspected the site on May 15, post-Azum's departure. The cavalry arrived two days later, backed by Bykov (ordered to remain west of the river and avoid combat if possible). Some MPR troops recrossed, occupying the disputed zone. Clashes with Manchukuoan cavalry resumed and intensified. Notified of renewed hostilities, Komatsubara viewed it as defiance, a personal affront. Emboldened by Order 1488, he aimed not just to repel but to encircle and annihilate. The incident was on the verge of major expansion. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. The ghosts of the Changufeng incident have come back to haunt both the USSR and Japan. Those like Tsuji Masanobu instigated yet another border clash that would erupt into a full blown battle that would set a precedent for both nations until the very end of WW2. 

Last week marked World Cancer Day, and in this episode, Molly revisits an important—and often misunderstood—topic: the relationship between alcohol and cancer.This is not a new conversation, and it's not a reaction to headlines. Instead, it's part of an ongoing commitment to helping you understand the science well enough to make informed, intentional choices about alcohol—without fear, shame, or all-or-nothing thinking.One reason this topic continues to matter is a striking gap in awareness: while nearly 90% of adults recognize smoking as a cancer risk, fewer than half realize that alcohol is also classified as a carcinogen Project 1 (50). That lack of awareness makes informed choice difficult—and that's what this episode aims to address.In this episode, you'll learn:Why alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, and what that designation actually meansThe seven types of cancer that are clearly linked to alcohol use, including breast cancerHow alcohol increases cancer risk at a biological level (acetaldehyde, inflammation, hormones, and nutrient disruption)Why alcohol research in humans is mostly observational, and what that means for how we interpret the dataThe critical difference between relative risk and absolute risk—and why this distinction mattersWhat experts mean when they say there is “no safe level” of alcohol for cancer riskHow to think about cancer risk through an Alcohol Minimalist, harm-reduction lensKey takeaways:Alcohol does increase cancer risk, but risk is dose-dependent and cumulative, not absolute or immediateRelative risk headlines often sound scarier than the actual, absolute numbersYou do not need perfection—or abstinence—to meaningfully reduce riskReducing frequency, quantity, and duration of drinking patterns mattersAlcohol Minimalism is about reducing unnecessary exposure, not eliminating all riskThis episode is about clarity, not commands. Science isn't here to scare you—it's here to inform you.If you've ever felt overwhelmed by alcohol and health messaging, this episode offers a calmer, more grounded way to understand the risks and decide what feels right for you.As always, choose peace.Resources mentioned:TIME Magazine article on alcohol and cancer riskCDC information on alcohol-related cancersAlcohol Minimalist framework for informed, harm-reduction decision makingIf this episode was helpful, consider sharing it with someone who would appreciate a thoughtful, non-alarmist conversation about alcohol and health.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Jiunn, Seth, John and Aaron discuss their review experience with the Stoic Equanimity Moderation https://developingpalates.com/reviews/cigar-reviews/team-cigar-review-stoic-equanimity-moderation/

Today's episode is about foods that may be dangerous when not consumed properly. Many everyday foods that seem harmless—or even healthy—can pose real risks when mishandled, overconsumed, or prepared improperly. I'm not here to spread fear, but rather to promote sensible awareness so you can enjoy them safely. We already recognize that frequent junk food like greasy cheeseburgers or high-calorie donuts harms our diet over time. Similarly, several everyday items we eat regularly carry potential downsides if we're not mindful.I'll begin with Wild mushrooms as a prime example. Foraging for mushrooms in your backyard or accepting them from a well-meaning friend might feel natural and organic, but wild varieties contain deadly toxins. They often closely resemble safe, supermarket-bought ones, yet harbor poisonous compounds that can lead to severe illness or fatality. Reliable data shows that mushroom poisonings cause a small number of deaths annually in the US—typically around 3 per year on average—though global estimates sometimes suggest higher figures in certain regions, and severe cases requiring hospitalization are more common. The key risk comes from misidentification, so unless you're an expert mycologist, it's far safer to stick with commercially cultivated varieties.Number 2: Elderberries. Often praised in natural remedies for their immune-supporting potential, require careful preparation. When raw, underripe, or improperly cooked, they contain compounds (including cyanogenic glycosides) that can release cyanide in the body, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, dizziness, or, in larger amounts, even worse. Always cook elderberries thoroughly—such as in jams, syrups, or teas—and avoid including stems, leaves, or unripe berries, which are more toxic. Commercial products are generally processed safely, but homemade versions demand extra caution.Number 3 is Nutmeg, a beloved spice in both sweet treats and savory dishes like cream sauces, which is delightful in small pinches. However, consuming larger quantities—such as 2–3 teaspoons or more (around 5–10 grams or higher)—can trigger serious effects due to myristicin. This compound metabolizes into substances causing hallucinations, dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and, in extreme cases, seizures or prolonged distress. While fatalities are extremely rare and usually involve massive overdoses or combinations with other substances, nutmeg intoxication has sent people to emergency rooms, especially from misguided attempts to use it recreationally. Stick to typical culinary amounts for flavor without worry.Number 4 is tuna, which certainly offers excellent protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Still, it accumulates methylmercury, a neurotoxin that can harm the kidneys, nervous system, and developing brains over time. Larger predatory species, such as albacore (white tuna) or bigeye, have higher levels than skipjack or canned light varieties. Health authorities like the FDA recommend moderation: for most adults, a few servings per week are fine, with pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and young children limiting intake further, perhaps 8 to 12 ounces of lower-mercury seafood weekly, with albacore capped slightly lower. Choose "best choice" options like canned light tuna more often and vary your seafood to minimize exposure.Read the full content hereSubscribe-free to our NewsletterProduced by SimVal Media Group, USA

F**k, ey... Was für eine Woche. Horst Steffen gefeuert, Spekulationen en masse über seine Nachfolge, eine sportliche Leitung, die in der Moderation des Chaos' zuweilen überfordert wirkte... Und am Ende steht ein Trainer, der eifrig betont, welche Ehre es für ihn sei, an der Seitenlinie im Weserstadion zu stehen. Das alles zwischen einem ernüchternden Spiel gegen Gladbach und einer schwierigen Aufgabe in Freiburg. Grund genug für Thomas und Jan alles ein wenig zu sortieren... und dabei auch die eigenen Emotionen der letzten Tage n bisschen zu verarbeiten. Es gab schon leichtere Phasen - für Werder UND den Worum Podcast. Enjoy!

In this Think Thursday episode, we explore how the human brain evolved to use discomfort as information—and what happens when modern life removes nearly all friction, effort, and delay.Our brains weren't designed for constant comfort. Discomfort once served as critical feedback, helping guide behavior, attention, rest, and problem-solving. But in today's world of instant gratification and instant relief, discomfort is often treated as a problem to eliminate rather than a signal to interpret.This episode unpacks why that shift matters for brain health, motivation, resilience, and long-term satisfaction—and how intentional discomfort can support a hedonic reset.In this episode, we discuss:Why discomfort evolved as a key feedback mechanism in the human brainHow instant relief interrupts the brain's ability to learn from discomfortThe difference between regulation and comfort from a neuroscience perspectiveHow highly concentrated, low-effort rewards shape motivation and satisfactionThe concept of hedonic adaptation and why “enough” keeps movingWhat a hedonic reset actually is (and what it isn't)How intentional discomfort supports nervous system regulationThe role of dopamine, effort, and delay in sustaining motivationWhy distress tolerance is a foundational skill for behavior changeHow identity shifts through repeated, slightly uncomfortable choicesExpert perspectives referenced:Dr. Anna Lembke, author of Dopamine Nation, on pleasure–pain balance and modern reward concentrationDr. Andrew Huberman on dopamine signaling, effort, and motivationJames Clear on identity following behaviorInspiration from a conversation on the Mel Robbins Podcast with Dr. LembkeOne gentle experiment to try this week:Choose one moment per day when you notice mild discomfort—boredom, restlessness, or the urge to distract—and pause instead of fixing it.Examples:Standing in line without reaching for your phoneSitting with boredom for 60–90 secondsLetting an urge rise and fall without reactingNotice:Where you feel the sensation in your bodyWhat thoughts show upWhether the feeling changes on its ownThis isn't about forcing discomfort or pushing through distress. It's about teaching your nervous system that discomfort is tolerable and temporary—and that awareness alone can create change.Key takeaway:Discomfort isn't a problem to solve. It's information to work with.In a culture built around instant relief and effortless reward, intentional discomfort can be a powerful way to restore balance, protect motivation, and support long-term brain health. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week's round-up of the latest news in online speech, content moderation and internet regulation, Mike and Ben cover:House Judiciary Releases EU X Fine Details (House Judiciary X Account)New Report Exposes European Commission Decade-Long Campaign to Censor American Speech (House Judiciary Committee)X offices raided in France as UK opens fresh investigation into Grok (BBC)Hey Gavin Newsom! Investigating TikTok's Moderation Is Just As Unconstitutional As When Texas & Florida Tried It (Techdirt)Spain Aims to Ban Social Media for Children Under 16, Prime Minister Says (NY Times)TikTok Keyword Analysis (LinkedIn)Why newsrooms are taking comments seriously again (New_ Public)Whoops, Websites Realize That Killing Their Comment Sections Was A Mistake (Techdirt)Play along with Ctrl-Alt-Speech's 2026 Bingo Card! Ctrl-Alt-Speech is a weekly podcast from Techdirt and Everything in Moderation. Send us your feedback at podcast@ctrlaltspeech.com and sponsorship enquiries to sponsorship@ctrlaltspeech.com. Thanks for listening.

For the video of this episode, go to https://youtu.be/TmH4h0QPNB0. In this episode, Judy and I talk about Lauren Hall's concept of Radical Moderation, and why I find the parallels between her ideas and my ideas about couples work so exciting. Our podcast interview with Lauren is at https://youtu.be/ftqRVeBptqs. Lauren Halls' Substack, The Radical Moderate's Guide to Life, is at https://substack.com/@radicalmoderatesguide. Information about the video course I mention in the episode is at https://tppcourse.brucechalmer.com. Do you have ideas for topics or guests for our podcast? Go to https://ctin7.com and send us a message. And you can also sign up for Dr. Chalmer's newsletter right from our homepage. Judy's book is The Blue Tent: Erotic Tales from the Bible by Laria Zylber. Find out more at https://lariazylber.com.   #couplestherapyinsevenwords #ctin7 #stability #intimacy #ThePassionParadox #DrBruceChalmer #JudyAlexander #RadicalModeration #LaurenHall

Donald Trump setzt auf Finnland. Mit seinem Amtskollegen Alexander Stubb versteht sich der US-Präsident blendend. Kein Wunder, schließlich ist Trump auf Finnland angewiesen. Das nordeuropäische Land kann etwas, dass die Amerikaner nicht können. Moderation? Kevin Schulte Sie haben Fragen? Schreiben Sie eine E-Mail an podcasts@ntv.de Sie möchten "Wieder was gelernt" unterstützen? Dann bewerten Sie den Podcast gerne bei Apple Podcasts oder Spotify. Dieser Podcast wird vermarktet von Julep Media: sales@julep.de

A vegan diet nearly cost him his life, leading to severe anorexia and chronic Lyme disease. On episode 855 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes sits down with Frank Bohne to hear his unbelievable story. Frank shares the truth about his 10 weeks of forced treatment for his eating disorder, how his testosterone plummeted, and his eventual recovery through a raw carnivore diet. This conversation covers his health journey, from malnourishment to butchering and eating his own raw meat.Ready to build a strong and healthy body with a proven method? Join Robert's FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass to learn the exact steps for optimizing your health and physique. Sign up here: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Follow Frank on IG: https://www.instagram.com/instafrank95/Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 - How a Vegan Diet Led to Anorexia & Lyme Disease 0:38 - Guest Intro: Frank Bohne's Radical Transformation 2:55 - What Convinced Him to Go Vegan? 4:09 - His Shocking Weight at 6'1" on a Vegan Diet 6:15 - Was He Binging and Purging or Just Malnourished? 6:41 - The Moment He Realized His Health Was Collapsing 8:13 - Inside the "Psychological Warfare" of Anorexia Treatment 9:56 - His Testosterone Levels Were in the Double Digits 12:00 - The Controversial "Everything in Moderation" Treatment Method 15:09 - What Was His Family Life Like During His Decline? 16:29 - How Do They Measure "Progress" in Treatment? 18:15 - Did He Quit Veganism After Leaving the Hospital? 21:00 - What Kind of "Food" Do They Serve in Treatment? 22:39 - From Veganism to a Keto-Carnivore Diet 24:41 - How Did He Get Chronic Lyme Disease? 26:32 - The Joe Rogan Episode That Changed His Life 28:34 - A Word From Our Host: No Ads, Just Value 30:16 - Why He Started Eating Raw Sheep Eyes 32:48 - Does He Eat Primarily Sheep or Beef? 34:36 - Why Lamb is One of the Best Keto-Carnivore Foods 37:00 - How Long Does One Sheep Last Him? 38:25 - How He Stores a Whole Lamb in His Toyota Prius 39:18 - Does He Prefer a Certain Taste or Texture? 42:55 - Is This Lifestyle Another Form of Eating Disorder? 45:32 - How the Vegan Community Reacts to Him Now 48:20 - His Plan to Create More Butchering Content 49:23 - How Much Does It Cost to Buy and Butcher a Whole Sheep? 52:40 - What's the Future Hold for Frank? 55:57 - How Does He Vet Farmers to Avoid Parasites in Raw Meat? 58:09 - Where to Find More From Frank Bohne

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly sits down with Dr. Charles Knowles, professor of surgery at Queen Mary University of London and author of Why We Drink Too Much.This is a deep, science-forward conversation about why humans drink alcohol, why some people lose control while others don't, and how culture, biology, psychology, and learning all intersect in our relationship with alcohol.Dr. Knowles shares his personal journey through alcohol dependence, recovery, and ultimately peace—alongside the neuroscience, history, and behavioral science that explain why alcohol can quietly shift from pleasure to reliance.If you've ever wondered “Why me?”, questioned your own drinking without fitting neatly into a label, or felt stuck in the gray area between “fine” and “not fine,” this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and perspective.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy problematic drinking is not a moral failure or lack of willpowerThe difference between reward drinking and relief drinking—and why that shift mattersWhy consumption alone is a poor measure of alcohol's impactThe Three C's of Drinking: Consumption, Consequences, and ControlWhat “alcohol reliance” means—and why so many people live in this gray areaWhy sobriety, abstinence, and neutrality are not the same thingHow emotional sobriety and peace are built after (or alongside) behavior changeWhy understanding the brain can help some people change—and why action still mattersThe role of culture, normalization, and storytelling in how we relate to alcoholWhy a period of alcohol-free time can be valuable, regardless of long-term goalsKey Concepts DiscussedAlcohol as a learned behavior, not a character flawPsychological dependence vs. physical dependenceCognitive dissonance in gray-area drinkingNeuroplasticity and habit reinforcementEmotional sobriety as a state of mind, not a rule setIdentity, agency, and discovering who you are without alcohol driving the storyNotable Quote“Peace is an incredibly important thing—and it's not until you find it that you realize you never had it.”About the GuestDr. Charles Knowles is a professor of surgery at Queen Mary University of London, a consultant colorectal surgeon, and the author of over 300 peer-reviewed scientific publications. Why We Drink Too Much is his first popular science book, combining rigorous research with lived experience to challenge how we think about alcohol, addiction, and recovery.Recommended ResourceWhy We Drink Too Much: The Impact of Alcohol on Our Bodies and Culture by Dr. Charles KnowlesFinal TakeawayChanging your relationship with alcohol isn't about labels, perfection, or deprivation. It's about understanding what's driving your behavior, questioning old narratives, and creating enough space to build peace—mentally, emotionally, and physically.This episode is an invitation to look at alcohol with curiosity instead of judgment—and to remember that meaningful change is always possible.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Keine Einigung in der Koalition auf ein neues Heizungsgesetz, Landesweite Proteste in den USA gegen das brutale Vorgehen der Einwanderungspolizei ICE in Minneapolis, Proteste in Israel gegen Diskriminierung von arabisch-palästinenischen Bürger, Abkommen zwischen Übergangsregierung und Kurden soll Syrien Frieden bringen, Der Sport, Das Wetter Hinweis: Die Beiträge zu den Themen Fußball-Bundesliga und Handball-EM dürfen aus rechtlichen Gründen nicht auf tagesschau.de gezeigt werden. Korrektur: Diese Sendung wurde nachträglich bearbeitet. In den tagesthemen vom 31.01.2026 wurde in der Moderation zu den Protesten in Israel Tel Aviv irrtümlich als Hauptstadt Israels bezeichnet. Das haben wir geändert.

What if the future of wellness marketing is simply… not trying so hard? In this episode, the hosts explore how mission-driven CPG brands are moving beyond preachy messaging and into a new era of modern moderation, one rooted in balance, authenticity, and consumer trust.  Plus, we sit down with beverage industry veteran Kevin Klock, who's back in the game as the co-founder and CEO of moringa-infused brand Orange Toucan, and Keegan Fong, the founder of Woon, a culture-forward pantry brand inspired by a family's beloved Chinese restaurants. Show notes: 0:25: MIA. Done Dry. Don't Lecture Me. A Good "Bully." Pop The Top. Too Much Tallow? Boop Me. – The team promotes an upcoming Miami meetup on February 18th at Casa La Rubia, encouraging founders to bring product samples. They also discuss how consumer attitudes around Dry January and wellness marketing are shifting away from rigid "all-or-nothing" messaging toward balance, moderation, and authenticity. The hosts shift to product samplings, including a new line of spirit-free canned cocktails, a brand of coffee beans with explosive packaging, beef tallow tortilla chips, BFY instant soups, protein shots, and corn snacks flavored with Vietnamese coffee. 19:58: Interview: Kevin Klock, Co-Founder & CEO, Orange Toucan – Kevin Klock shares the origins of Orange Toucan and his partnership with co-founders Rob Snell and Sandy Wheeler, creator of Bowflex. He explains how the moringa-infused beverages, blended with ginger and turmeric, are designed to support inflammation reduction and blood sugar management, highlighting Wheeler's own experience with the products. Klock also discusses the brand's approach to consumer education through online channels and trusted influencers. 28:11: Interview: Keegan Fong, Founder, Woon – Keegan explains the meaning of "Woon" and how the brand took shape during the COVID pandemic. He discusses Woon's growth to more than 500 stores nationwide, with products like Mama's Way hot sauce, a versatile stir-fry sauce, and other pantry staples. Keegan also shares how building an online following helped fuel retail expansion and create a full-circle brand experience connecting the restaurant and packaged goods. Brands in this episode: Recess, Athletic Brewing, Zevia, Red Bull, Bully Boy Distillers, Pretentious Coffee, Blue Bottle, Manchas, Long Weekend, The Cumin Club, Green & Sunny, Shooka Sauce, Boop, Chilly Water, Like Air, Copper Cow  

In this final Think Thursday of Mostly Dry January, Molly delivers an empowering message for anyone questioning whether their efforts this month "counted." If you've found yourself wondering why change feels so slow, or why your results don't match your effort, this episode is for you.She explains why progress in behavior change is often invisible at first — especially when it comes to changing deeply ingrained habits like drinking. Backed by neuroscience, Molly reveals how your brain rewires itself through small wins, micro-pauses, and increased awareness, even if those changes aren't yet reflected in your habits or outcomes.Key Topics CoveredWhy behavior change often doesn't look like progress at firstThe role of neuroplasticity in rewiring your brain through repetitionWhat researchers call latent change — and why it mattersThe difference between outcomes and indicators in habit changeSubtle but powerful signs of invisible progressHow identity and self-talk begin shifting before results show upScience Concepts MentionedNeuroplasticity: Your brain is shaped by repetition, attention, and intentionAmygdala down-regulation and dopamine recalibration during early behavior changeLatent change: Internal shifts that occur before external behaviors visibly improveInvisible Wins to Look ForPausing more often before acting on a cravingFeeling curious instead of critical when things go off-planMore compassionate self-talkA stronger desire to re-engage, even after misstepsGrowing awareness of what drives your decisionsWeekly Reflection PromptWhat kind of progress have you made this month that no one else can see — but you can feel?Wrap-Up MessageYou don't need to be perfect. You don't need to be done. You just need to keep noticing.Progress is often invisible — until it's not. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week's roundup of the latest news in online speech, content moderation and internet regulation, Mike is joined by Konstantinos Komaitis, Senior Resident Fellow for Global and Democratic Governance at the Digital Forensics Research Lab (DFRLab) at the Atlantic Council. Together, they discuss:Who Owns TikTok in the U.S. Now? (NY Times)TikTok is investigating why some users can't write 'Epstein' in messages (NPR)TikTok users freak out over app's ‘immigration status' collection — here's what it means (TechCrunch)TikTok Is Now Collecting Even More Data About Its Users. Here Are the 3 Biggest Changes (Wired)Social network UpScrolled sees surge in downloads following TikTok's US takeover (TechCrunch)Europe votes to tackle deep dependence on US tech in sovereignty drive (Computerworld)Meta hides followers and following lists for users based in Iran (Iran International)Iran's internet blackout may become permanent, with access for elites only (Rest of World)The ‘Social Media Addiction' Narrative May Be More Harmful Than Social Media Itself (Techdirt)Payment processors were against CSAM until Grok started making it (The Verge) Ctrl-Alt-Speech is a weekly podcast from Techdirt and Everything in Moderation. Send us your feedback at podcast@ctrlaltspeech.com and sponsorship enquiries to sponsorship@ctrlaltspeech.com. Thanks for listening.

This week Mother Natalia shares a recent conviction she had about being silent during periods of silence. She uses that to give suggestions on what we can do for the Great Fast, moderate things instead of grand gestures.References:The Philokalia, Volume 2Great Lent: Journey to Pascha by Alexander SchmemannFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

https://codyfields.substack.com/p/moderation-is-not-the-virtue-you

In this episode, Molly explores one of the most emotionally charged moments in any behavior change journey: going off plan. Whether you're trying to drink less, eat healthier, or shift any long-standing habit, that moment of “I said I wouldn't, but I did” can feel like failure.But what if it's not?Molly shares how deeply rooted perfectionist narratives — especially around alcohol — make us believe that if we slip, we must be broken, or incapable of moderation. Drawing from neuroscience and psychology, she explains how our brains create conditioned responses and how off-plan drinking isn't a diagnosis, it's data.You'll learn why changing your relationship with alcohol (or any habit) doesn't require perfection — it requires compassion, curiosity, and a willingness to keep going. And you'll be introduced to the Off-Plan Plan, which is a tool  she teaches in her programs. What You'll LearnWhy culturally conditioned narratives frame abstinence as the “only” answerHow your lower brain creates automatic responses to stress and emotionThe science behind why intention alone doesn't drive behaviorWhat perfectionism is really about — and why it shuts down progressHow compassion and curiosity fuel lasting changeA powerful mindset reframe: Off-plan moments aren't failure — they're feedbackKey Quote from the Episode“Off-plan drinking is not a diagnosis. It's not proof that you can't do it. It's information. It's data. It's your brain telling you that something about that moment overwhelmed the tools you had available.”Weekly ReflectionWhen I drink off plan, what story do I immediately tell myself about who I am?And what would change if I treated that moment as information instead of evidence?Resources & MentionsSunnyside mindful drinking appPrevious episodes in the January arc:Fresh Start Effect (Jan 1)Mostly Dry is Enough (Jan 5)Neuroscience of Follow-Through (Jan 8)From Restraint to Reward (Jan 12)Identity Lag (Jan 15)Emotional Freedom (Jan 19)Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Think Thursday episode, Molly breaks down a powerful concept at the heart of sustainable habit change: micro-yeses. These are the small, often overlooked decisions that align with your long-term goals—even if they feel too minor to matter.Whether you're working on behavior change related to exercise, diet, spending, screen time, or any other habit, micro-yeses are the building blocks of momentum. This episode explores how these tiny choices affect the brain, create identity shifts, and lead to real progress over time.Key Topics CoveredWhat a "micro-yes" is and why it mattersHow small decisions activate the prefrontal cortex and build new neural pathwaysWhy repetition, not perfection, drives real behavior changeThe role of self-recognition in maintaining motivationWhat behavior scientists like BJ Fogg say about starting smallScience and InsightsMicro-yeses interrupt automatic behavior loops by engaging intentional brain regions like the prefrontal cortexThrough consistent action, these moments create synaptic plasticity, helping rewire the brain for new habitsAs Stanford researcher BJ Fogg notes:“Tiny actions, repeated consistently, change identity.”Reflection Prompt:Where have you said yes to yourself this week, even in a small or imperfect way?Recognize it. Count it. It matters.Related Episodes to ExploreThe Fresh Start Effect (January 1)Neuroscience of Follow-Through (January 8)Identity Lag: Why Your Brain Hasn't Caught Up Yet (January 15) ★ Support this podcast ★

What do you do when your kids constantly ask for sugar, and you don't want to swing between indulgence and restriction? In this episode, Elizabeth Urbanowicz shares a simple, biblical framework to help parents guide children when good things begin to take too important a place. Using sugar and media as examples, you'll learn how to teach gratitude, set wise boundaries, and help your kids recognize when something good is drifting toward idolatry.

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Tanya to talk about what it really looks like to get sober and stay sober when your journey isn't linear.   Tanya shares how she grew up with a stable home and little exposure to alcohol—but still struggled with insecurity, belonging, and wanting to feel “cool,” which made alcohol feel like the solution. What started as binge drinking and partying progressed into DUIs, escalating consequences, and the painful truth many people discover: once the addiction wiring is there, moderation feels like torture. This conversation goes deep into relapse, grief, identity, relationships, resentment, and recovery—plus the power of community, AA, faith, service work, and learning to build self-worth from the inside out. Tanya also shares how she stayed sober through devastating loss and what helped her reach one year sober. If you're sober curious, trying to quit drinking, rebuilding after relapse, or looking for real tools to protect your sobriety long-term, this episode will hit home. ------------- Just Between Us Podcast Sign Up: app.helloaudio.fm/feed/07bfba32-e173-41c6-973e-ceee488187c7/signup Sober Motivation 30 Day Free Trial: https://sobermotivation.mn.co

In this reflective episode, Molly explores the concept of emotional freedom—what it is, what it isn't, and how it's connected to both her personal story and the Alcohol Minimalist approach.Recorded on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the day after what would have been her father's 98th birthday, Molly connects the legacies of two powerful men who shaped her understanding of what true strength looks like: calm, steady, and intentional.You'll learn how emotional regulation plays a critical role in creating lasting change with alcohol habits, and why your ability to pause between feeling and acting is key to sustainable freedom. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and her own lived experience, Molly unpacks the subtle but powerful shift from automatic drinking to intentional living.Topics DiscussedWhy emotional freedom isn't about never feeling uncomfortableThe Viktor Frankl quote that changed Molly's approach to habit changeHow emotional avoidance and low distress tolerance fuel drinking patternsThe role of the basal ganglia in automatic habits and how to rewire itHer father's example of strength without reactivityHow to use the PB&J tool (Pause, Breathe, Just Ten Minutes) to interrupt urgesA deeper look into the “Figuring Out Your Feelings” chapter from Breaking the Bottle LegacyKey Quotes“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” — Viktor Frankl “You can tell the size of a man by the size of the thing that makes him mad.” — Adlai Stevenson, as taught to Molly by her fatherResources MentionedBreaking the Bottle Legacy by Molly Watts – especially the chapter “Figuring Out Your Feelings”Drink-Less Success: A 30-day self-paced program based in neuroscience and habit psychology Includes the audiobook version of Breaking the Bottle Legacy Learn more at: mollywatts.com/drink-less-successWeekly Reflection PromptWhat does emotional freedom mean to me right now? Not in theory. Not for the future. But right now.Ask yourself:Where am I reactive?Where could I create more space?What would it look like to respond instead of escape?Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

If you're stuck in what I call ‘moderation hell' then this episode is for you. We have all been sold the myth that moderation is the ‘normal' way to drink. If you can't achieve it? Then you have a problem. This is a myth! It could not be further from the truth. Today I'll walk you through chapter 3 of my book The Sober Shift where we dispel the myth of moderation in pursuit of getting you to where you really want to be - freedom. Community makes all the difference. Join The Sober Mom Life Cafe for 5+ Peer Support meetings each week and a private Facebook group to connect with sober and sober-curious women. Get Your Copy of my book! The Sober Shift Follow on Instagram @thesobermomlifeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.