Podcasts about moments

What happened? IT happened! The twins are talking this week to break down the 78th Annual Tony Awards, hosted by Cynthia Erivo. The highs, lows, glitz, glamour, history-making wins, snubs, and favorite moments are all on the table. The most dramatic, debated, and delicious Best Lead Actress in a Musical race finally has a winner… what did we think? Connor has a hot take on a major category that left Dylan stunned. From Oh, Mary! happiness to balcony bits, there's an endless array of topics to devour. Audra McDonald's Mama Rose and Nicole Scherzinger's Norma Desmond took the stage for solo moments for the history books, while history literally had its eyes on the 10th anniversary reunion performance with the original Broadway cast of Hamilton. Moments from Maybe Happy Ending, Death Becomes Her, Real Women Have Curves, Operation Mincemeat, and MORE are broken down. Was something missing? What are we dreaming of next year? Is Pirate Ramin Karimloo single? Where, oh Where do I get this Tony? Listen now and join Drama+, our bonus content platform at patreon.com/thedramapodcast, for extra episodes and even more drama!Follow DRAMA. on Twitter & Instagram & Tiktok & BlueskyFollow Connor MacDowell on Twitter & InstagramFollow Dylan MacDowell on Twitter & InstagramSubscribe to our show on iHeartRadio Broadway!Support the podcast by subscribing to DRAMA+, which also includes bonus episodes, Instagram Close Friends content, and more!

What happens when one woman dares to challenge centuries of religious tradition, not with protest, but with compassion, wisdom, and an unwavering heart? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Cindy Rasicot on her Nautilus award-winning book This Fresh Existence: Heart Teachings from Bhikkhuni Dhammananda. Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET 1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.comCindy Rasicot is a retired psychotherapist and author of This Fresh Existence: Heart Teachings from Bhikkhuni Dhammananda, a Nautilus Gold and Special Honors: Ordained to Lead: Women's Spiritual Legacy Award. In 2005 she travelled to Thailand with her family where she met Bhikkhuni Dhammananda — an encounter that changed her life forever. In 2020 she wrote the award winning memoir Finding Venerable Mother: A Daughter's Spiritual Quest to Thailand. Her memoir is a soulful story of spiritual healing through her loving connection with Bhikkhuni Dhammananda. The book was a finalist in the international Book awards, The Sarton Awards, and Chanticleer International Book Awards. https://cindyrasicot.comAmazon: https://a.co/d/bIVLwcpFor more show information visit:www.MariannePestana.com

Are you ready to power up your #pickleball game? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, CSSD, on protein packed recipes to keep you energized on the court PLUS a chance to win $5000 and more from Eggland's Best Eggs!  Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate! https://www.kmet1490am.com  Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, CSSD is a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified specialist in sports dietetics. She also has a Certificate of Training in Integrative and Functional Nutrition. She is the author of two books: The Flexitarian Diet, ranked a top plant-based diet by US News & World Report, and her second book, The Superfood Swap. She is a trusted expert appearing regularly in local and national media outlets such as The Today Show and Good Morning America. She starred in (and won!) the primetime reality TV show on ABC called, My Diet Is Better Than Yours. Dawn worked as the head dietitian for the Chicago Cubs for 10 years (yes she does have a World Series ring!), hosted an Emmy-nominated TV show in Chicago for 3 seasons, and won the Media Excellence Award from the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. She owns a nutrition consulting & communications business with a focus on fun, flexible superfood nutrition. https://www.dawnjacksonblatner.comEggland's Best Sweepstakes: https://ebfamilysweeps.com  For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

What if everything you've been through was actually preparing you to become the woman you were always meant to be?  Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Lori Pappas on her Nautilus award-winning book The Magic of Yes: Embrace the Wise Woman Within.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.comLori Pappas was one of the first female computer sales reps in the world in her 20s; an award-winning entrepreneur in her 30s and 40s, and, after failing retirement, founded an international charity and moved to Africa in her 50s. At 67, she met the “love of her life” online, and at 75, Lori launched her next career with her award-winning book, The Magic of Yes: Embrace the Wise Woman Within. Lori leveraged her experience with successful business models to create an innovative D.R.E.A.M. framework, The Magic of Yes includes practical strategies for personal growth and self-care, empowerment tools for leadership and success in business, and most importantly, tips for how you can access your inner wisdom in everyday life.  https://www.loripappas.com The Magic of Yes on Amazon: https://a.co/d/cLJvIJVFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Moments where the NBA and NHL look so different and yet are exactly the same, 32 for 32 and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you do when your mind betrays you, your body shuts down, and your entire identity shatters into a million questions? In this raw and radiant episode of Communication Queen, I sit down with spiritual coach and former electrical engineer Michall J Medina, who traded algorithms for alchemy after anxiety hijacked her life. From religious conformity in Texas to energetic liberation in Israel, Michall takes us on a jaw-dropping journey through social anxiety, suicidal ideation, trauma therapy, failed prescriptions—and the powerful pivot that cracked open her healing. But this isn't just about the pain. It's about the perspective shift that changed everything. Michall breaks down her signature methodology for emotional alchemy—rooted in somatic healing, self-inquiry, and energetic transformation. We dive into the exact moment she stopped seeing herself as broken and started treating her anxiety as a wounded part that needed love, not fixing. You'll learn how to shift your story, stop looping in healing cycles, and embody the future version of you who's already free. Plus, I coach Michall live on how to craft her story for maximum impact, positioning, and podcast guest power. Warning: This episode might just catalyze your next spiritual evolution.

Lisa Kay Solomon sees design everywhere—not just in products, but in conversations, strategies, systems, and futures. As a futurist and strategist, she has spent her career helping leaders and organizations think long-term, navigate uncertainty, and drive meaningful change through intentional design. In this episode, Lisa and Dart talk about how to lead with imagination in uncertain times, why good strategy needs emotional engagement, and how design can be a form of applied hope. They also explore what leaders can learn from scenario planning, the surprising lessons of an early GNC wellness experiment, and how future-readiness starts with asking better questions.Lisa Kay Solomon is a futures and design educator at Stanford University's d.school, where she teaches classes on long-term thinking, systems leadership, and civic imagination. She is the co-author of Moments of Impact and Design a Better Business.In this episode, Dart and Lisa discuss:- Why the best leaders are also designers of the future- The power of imagination in strategy and systems change- What scenario planning can teach us about agency- How emotional connection drives effective strategy- Lessons from civic design and community-led change- And other topics...Lisa Kay Solomon is a futurist, strategist, and Designer in Residence at the Stanford d.school, where she helps leaders and students develop the skills to navigate uncertainty and shape long-term change. She is the co-author of the bestselling books Moments of Impact and Design a Better Business. Named to the Thinkers50 Radar list and recognized by ixDA as a Woman of Design, Lisa is known for blending design, foresight, and civic imagination to prepare people for the future.Resources Mentioned:Moments of Impact: How to Design Strategic Conversations That Accelerate Change, by Lisa Kay Solomon and Chris Ertel: https://www.amazon.com/Moments-Impact-Strategic-Conversations-Accelerate/dp/1451697627Design a Better Business: New Tools, Skills, and Mindset for Strategy and Innovation, by Patrick Van Der Pijl, Justin Lokitz, and Lisa Kay Solomon: https://www.amazon.com/Design-Better-Business-Strategy-Innovation/dp/1119272114Stanford d.school: https://dschool.stanford.eduThe Long Now Foundation: https://longnow.orgConnect with Lisa:Website: https://www.lisakaysolomon.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisakaysolomon/Course: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/leading-like-a-futuristWork with Dart:Dart is the CEO and co-founder of the work design firm 11fold. Build work that makes employees feel alive, connected to their work, and focused on what's most important to the business. Book a call at 11fold.com.

Did you know that according to research provided by the American Cancer Society, more than 2 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in 2025? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Mohit Manrao, Senior Vice President of US Oncology at AstraZeneca, on the rising caner rates among younger adults.  Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET 1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate! https://www.kmet1490am.comMohit Manrao, Senior Vice President and Head of the US Oncology Business Unit at AstraZeneca, is responsible for leading commercial strategy and maximizing performance of their expansive oncology portfolio. Prior to assuming his current role in 2022, Mohit served as Vice President, Global Franchise Head Lung Cancer since 2020. Mohit joined AstraZeneca in 2012, holding various roles at the market, regional, and global-level across geographies, including Head of UK Oncology and Head of Daiichi Sankyo Alliance Europe. Mohit's education includes Bachelor of Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Punjab Technical University and Masters of Business Administration, Indian School of Business. https://www.astrazeneca.comFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

What if the future of fine jewelry isn't just about sparkle, but about access, innovation, and redefining who luxury is really for? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Monil Kothari on the Haus of Brilliance Jewelry Collection.  Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET 1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.comMonil Kothari is the founder and CEO of Haus of Brilliance, a New York City-based fine jewelry brand rooted in the belief that luxury should be accessible to all. With over 13 years of experience, including early training in India and more than a decade leading operations in New York, Monil brings a global perspective and deep industry insight to his work. Since launching the brand, he has grown Haus of Brilliance from a family-rooted business into a major player in modern jewelry retail, with products available through Amazon, QVC, Kohl's, Belk, 1stDibs, and the brand's own e-commerce site. Known for its focus on quality, trend-driven design, and fast delivery, the company continues to expand under Monil's leadership, delivering fine jewelry at value-driven prices to meet the needs of today's consumer. https://www.hausofbrilliance.comFor a Special 20% discount on your order at Haus of Brilliance use code: MOMENTS20For more show information visit:www.MariannePestana.com

A media ministry publication of Grace Bible Church in Elkhart, Indiana. Moments of transforming grace from the Bible.

Have you ever felt like a part of you wants to change, but something keeps holding you back? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Britt Frank on her new book Align Your Mind: Tame Your Inner Critic and Make Peace with Your Shadow Using the Power of Parts Work.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate! Britt Frank, MSW, LSCSW, SEP, is a licensed neuropsychotherapist, keynote speaker, and author. She received her B.A. from Duke University and her MSW from the University of Kansas, where she later became an award-winning adjunct professor. Frank speaks and writes widely about the brain and how to get unstuck from even the most long-standing habits and patterns. Her work has been featured by New York Magazine, The New York Times, Forbes, NPR, The Society for Human Resources Management, Psychology Today, and Esquire. https://www.brittfrank.com For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

What happens when a high-powered engineer walks away from corporate life to follow a dream rooted in ancestral wisdom, music, and the magic of nature? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Jennifer Elwell Comeau on her new books The Inside of ME, and A Moon in All Things. Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate!  Jennifer Elwell Comeau inspires humans to restore our sacred partnership with the rest of the natural world. A certified Forest Therapy Guide, singer-songwriter, and author-speaker, nature is Jennifer's creative muse. Her Nautilus Gold-winning children's book, “The Inside of ME” is a profound reminder of the magic that happens on the inside when we go outside. Her debut novel, A Moon in All Things, has been called “atmospheric and beguiling” by Kirkus Reviews, and her poems and essays are published in four anthologies. She has produced two albums of original music available on all streaming platforms. She partners with OzGREEN, an award-winning non-profit bringing YOUth LEADing The World programs to Australia, Africa, and India.  She resides in Kennebunkport, Maine, where she holds climate buoyancy and writing workshops, hosts sacred circles, and runs a Wild Wonder Forest Bathing business. www.jennifercomeau.com For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

What if the version of yourself you've spent years trying to fix just to blend in, was never broken to begin with? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Sol Smith on his new book The Autistic's Guide to Self-Discovery: Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate!  Sol Smith is an author and of the manager of the Neurospicy Community, which is the largest sup  port network for autistics and ADHDers in the world.  A certified autism specialist who is autistic, dyslexic, and living with ADHD. spent more than two decades as a college professor before shifting his professional focus to coaching other autistic and ADHD people to gain autonomy in their lives. Sol's speaking skills have earned him a following of hundreds of thousands on TikTok and led to educational seminars about neurodiversity with corporations around the world.  http://www.ProfessorSol.comFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

What does it mean to celebrate life in the face of profound loss, and how can that act transform not only grief, but those who witness it? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Myra Sack on her new book Fifty-Seven Fridays: Losing Our Daughter, Finding Our Way.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.comMyra Sack is the author of Nautilus award-winning memoir, "Fifty-Seven Fridays: Losing Our Daughter Finding Our Way," and founder of E-Motion, Inc., a nonprofit organization created to support community, movement and ritual to enhance coping and resilience. Myra's life changed when her older daughter, Havi, died on January 20, 2021 of Tay-Sachs disease. Myra is a certified Compassionate Bereavement Care provider, holds an MBA in Social Impact from Boston University, and graduated with a B.A. cum laude from Dartmouth College. Myra's writing has been featured in the Boston Globe, Kveller, People, Hadassah Magazine, Today and Upworthy. Myra serves on the Board of the Courageous Parents Network and  lives in Boston, MA with her family. https://www.myrasack.com https://www.emotion-mc.orgFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Why does child marriage still exist in nearly every U.S. state, and what can we do to stop it? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Donna Simmons on her new book Ashes to Flame: Transforming Trauma Into Purpose.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate! Donna Simmons is a wife, mother, author, and dedicated advocate for breaking cycles of generational trauma and supporting mental health recovery. Appointed by the Governor to the Kentucky Juvenile Justice Advisory Board, she collaborates with leaders across the state to reduce juvenile system involvement and strengthen protective factors for at-risk youth. A survivor of child abuse and exploitation, Donna's personal journey fuels her mission to help others transform pain into purpose.   Her memoir, Ashes to Flame, chronicles her experience of survival and healing, encouraging others to uncover their own inner resilience. Donna's story has been featured in Good Housekeeping, Glamour, NPR, PBS, and Fox News, among many others. She is a frequent speaker, trainer, and panelist at both national and international conferences, and has testified before legislative committees advocating for systemic change.  https://trauma2purpose.com/For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Can spending time among ancient trees truly awaken creativity, intuition, and even deep healing? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Ellen Dee Davidson on her new books The Miracle Forest: A True Story, Wind, and Sacred Forest Bathing: The Healing Power of Ancient Trees and Wild Places.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET 1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.comAfter graduating from UC Santa Cruz, Ellen Dee Davidson spent years teaching elementary school, creative writing, and piano while raising her two daughters, Jessica and Michelle. She is the author of six published books and several magazine articles, including one on preserving ancient trees. Her works include The Miracle Forest: A True Story (a 2025 Nautilus Silver Award winner), Wind (a 2023 Nautilus Gold Award winner), and Sacred Forest Bathing: The Healing Power of Ancient Trees and Wild Places. Ellen lives among the redwoods in Humboldt County, where nature continues to inspire her writing and way of life. https://www.ellendeedavidson.comFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

On today's episode, Cailee French joins me to talk about Speaking Up for You and Baby: Advocacy at Every Stage.Cailee shares how these powerful tools can be seamlessly integrated into your existing practices. We explore the importance of self-advocacy in pregnancy, how that evolves into advocacy for your children once they're born, and the ways we can empower families to feel confident speaking up in every setting—from medical offices to daily parenting moments.Cailee is the Operations Manager at The Fresh Test, a company revolutionizing the traditional glucose screening experience by offering a cleaner, dye-free alternative to the conventional glucola drink. Their mission is to improve maternal health by creating more informed, supportive, and health-conscious pregnancy care options.Cailee French Website: thefreshtest.com Instagram: @thefreshtest Offerings: A clean, dye-free glucose alternative for pregnancy testing, designed to improve the maternal health experience. Let's Stay Connected!

Bear and Gray make their Money in the Bank picks and discuss what has happened in wrestling over the last month. Thanks to Wes Anderson for Moments in Time, check him out on Twitter @SongsByWes and Wes Anderson Music on Facebook. Thanks to our sponsors: Sparty Steve, All Wear Clothing, Crandall's Quality Landscaping, GrayKey Merch, PaperDenimArt and Datingtransformation.com

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Alistair Bruce-Ball is joined by Julien Laurens, Guillem Balagué and Mina Rzouki. They reflect on PSG winning their first Champions League. What next for Inter after Simone Inzaghi leaves? The panel have their say on the latest transfer moves. Could Crystal Palace's Europa League place be in jeopardy? And the gang give their moments, signings and players of the season.02:25 Champions League Final reflections 18:35 Is Luis Enrique destined for the Premier League? 26:05 Simone Inzaghi has already left Inter 31:55 Could Cesc Fabregas replace him? 36:05 Transfers – Reijnders, Cherki & Luis Díaz 41:00 Crystal Palace European place in jeopardy? 46:55 Moments, signings and players of the seasonBBC Sounds / 5 Live commentaries: Sat 1700 Andorra v England in World Cup Qualifying, Tue 1945 England v Senegal in Friendly.

On today's show: BookTok is engulfed in controversy after an Australian rugby star was seemingly handed a book deal after just a month of posting on BookTok and with no former writing experience or manuscript to his name. We discuss the accusations of white male privilege, the inner workings of influencer publishing and whether we need more ‘literary men' in our age of incel culture. Plus, is Sydney Sweeney selling droplets of her used bath water to male fans genius marketing or normalising objectification? And, following the news of Bella and Gigi Hadid's secret sister, how wise is genealogical testing? Finally our usual film and TV recs (including a very honest And Just Like That review), and a highly revealing update on the Beckham feud. Please do leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or a rating on Spotify – it really does help keep us going xWe love hearing from you, DM us ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@straightuppod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, email at ⁠⁠hello@straightuppodcast.co.uk⁠ and follow us on TikTok @straightuupod too!Huge thanks to our sponsor⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Yonder⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, the incredible lifestyle rewards credit card packed with rewards you'll actually *want* to use. Find out more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yonder.com/straightup⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Borrow responsibly. £15 a month. 18+ and UK only. Rep 66.0% APR var. T&Cs apply.Get 20% off the adaptogenic coffee that changed our lives, London Nootropics, using our code straightup at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠londonnootropics.com⁠⁠⁠Try BookBeat for free for 60 days (w 40 hrs of listening) and stream millions of audio using our code straightup at bookbeat.comRecs/reviewsSydney Sweeney, Dr Squatch ad The Elysian, Elle Griffin, Substack The disappearance of literary men should worry everyone, New York Times Demon Copperhead, Barbara KingsolverThe Principle of Moments, Esmie Jikiemi-PearsonEvenings and Weekends, Oisín McKenna (audiobook on BookBeat)The Gift, BBC Radio 4 podcast You've found a lost relative. Now what? VoxThe Better Sister, Prime Video Long Bright River, c4Overcompensating, Netflix And Just Like That, NOWTVThe Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Disney +Mormon wives on swinging scandals, friendship fallouts and religious backlash, BBC. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bear and Gray return after a month off to cover the NHL and NBA playoffs. We also make our NASCAR and PGA picks and recap what has happened in the last month. Thanks to Wes Anderson for Moments in Time, check him out on Twitter @SongsByWes and Wes Anderson Music on Facebook. Thanks to our sponsors: Sparty Steve, All Wear Clothing, Crandall's Quality Landscaping, GrayKey Merch, PaperDenimArt and Datingtransformation.com

In this solo Coaching Call episode of Masters of Moments, Jake Wurzak breaks down how to create investor reports that people actually want to read. Drawing from his experience in real estate and hospitality, Jake walks through the fundamentals of reporting with clarity, consistency, and purpose. He shares the essential elements of an effective update, including what data to include, how to tailor content based on your relationship with investors, and how frequency and tone play a role in building trust. The episode also covers the importance of visual presentation, storytelling through numbers, and why transparency is key to long-term partnerships, especially when challenges arise. Jake also touches on: Balancing detailed metrics with high-level narratives Common mistakes that turn investors off How to use reports as a strategic communication tool Structuring reports for quarterly, monthly, or ad hoc updates Leveraging reports to reinforce your brand and vision Whether you're raising capital or already managing a portfolio, this episode is a tactical guide to making your investor communication stand out. Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:00:49) - Effective communication with investors (00:02:06) - Quarterly reports and their importance (00:04:20) - Methods of sharing investor reports (00:05:42) - Hybrid approach to investor updates (00:08:33) - Detailed walkthrough of an investor report (00:19:48) - Common mistakes and best practices (00:23:30) - Challenges of investor webinars (00:25:11) - Setting expectations for investor reports (00:28:09) - Scaling the business and team (00:31:14) - Balancing investor relations and personal investments (00:38:35) - Creating effective investor reports (00:40:20) - Evaluating hotel investments (00:46:09) - Conclusion and final thoughts Connect & Invest with Jake: Follow Jake on X: https://x.com/JWurzak 1 on 1 coaching with Jake: https://www.jakewurzak.com/coaching Learn How to Invest with DoveHill: https://bit.ly/3yg8Pwo

Episode 547 - Dorice Horenstein - Choosing to Be A Life Champion - 6 Step Playbook to Making the Right Choice For YouDorice Horenstein – Celebrated Author of Transformational BooksEmpowering Minds and Hearts Through Storytelling and Practical WisdomDorice Horenstein is a celebrated author whose works inspire individuals and organizations to thrive with resilience, positivity, and purpose. Her books, Moments of the Heart and the upcoming Choose to Be Your Own Champion, offer powerful insights on personal growth, leadership, and overcoming challenges. Through her writing, Dorice empowers readers to embrace the four key relationships needed to live wholeheartedly and make decisions that align with their true selves.Coming Soon: Choose to Be Your Own ChampionA 6-Step Playbook to Making the Right Choice for YouIn her powerful upcoming book, Choose to Be Your Own Champion, Dorice Horenstein offers a practical and inspiring guide to living with intention and resilience. Through personal stories, actionable insights, and her signature blend of positivity and wisdom, Dorice invites readers to take charge of their choices and unlock their inner champion. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or leading a team, this book will empower you to show up as your best self.https://doricehorenstein.com/Support the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

Following a whirlwind spring and the successful 5 Moments of Need Summit, we're excited to debut the results from our first-ever State of Workflow Learning Survey. With input from 71 organizations across 15 different industries, this episode covers what L&D teams are actually doing when it comes to implementing workflow learning—and where there's still room to grow. We hope this episode sparks a broader conversation and encourages even more of you to contribute to next year's survey. If you want the full report and to participate in future research, tune in to find out how. Whether you're just getting started with workflow learning or have been leading the charge, this episode is your chance to reflect on where we are—and where we're headed. Give the episode a listen. Share it with your team. Let's keep building the future of performance support—together.   Have questions about this content or another resource on the site? Let us know! Use this form to let us know you're interested in scheduling a call with a member of the team. We're always happy to discuss your current, future, or aspirational initiatives in real-time. For more 5 Moments of Need resources, visit our website, join the conversation, download our ebook, and subscribe to this podcast so as not to miss a single episode. Copyright © 2025 by APPLY Synergies, LLC | All Rights Reserved. 

In this must-listen episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, host Sean V. Bradley, CSP, and co-host LA Williams sit down with Shep Hyken, the internationally renowned customer service and customer experience expert, best-selling author, and keynote speaker, to explore the critical role exceptional customer experience plays in today's automotive industry. "They're not just comparing you to another dealer. They're going to compare you to the best experience they ever had." — Shep Hyken As the market navigates post-pandemic shifts and economic challenges like high interest rates and limited inventory, Shep shares actionable strategies that dealerships can implement right now to stand out. From customer engagement to loyalty-building techniques, Shep dives deep into what it takes to create an unforgettable experience at every customer touchpoint. "You must model the behavior you want others to do toward others." — Shep Hyken Listen in to hear why focusing on existing customers, embracing innovative tools like Podium, and modernizing your approach to customer service can lead to massive revenue growth. Are you prepared to elevate your dealership's customer experience and boost retention in today's competitive market? Tune in to find out how to turn service into a powerful driver of long-term success.   Key Takeaways: ✅ Enhancing customer retention is often more beneficial and cost-effective than solely focusing on acquiring new business. ✅ Leveraging technology and AI, such as Podium, can significantly improve customer interactions and streamline dealership operations. ✅ Maintaining a positive work culture among employees directly influences the quality of customer service delivered. ✅ Leading dealerships prioritize creating a seamless and consistent experience across all customer touchpoints, setting them apart in service delivery. About Shep Hyken ​Shep Hyken is a globally recognized customer service and experience expert, acclaimed keynote speaker, and New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. As the Chief Amazement Officer of Shepard Presentations, he has dedicated his career to helping organizations build loyal relationships with their customers and employees.​ Since founding Shepard Presentations in 1983, Shep has worked with over 1,200 clients, ranging from Fortune 100 companies to small businesses, across various industries including retail, healthcare, technology, and financial services. His client list includes notable organizations such as American Airlines, AAA, Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, Aetna, Abbott Laboratories, and American Express.​  Shep's dynamic presentations are known for their high energy, humor, and practical insights, often incorporating magic to engage audiences. He has been inducted into the National Speakers Association Hall of Fame for lifetime achievement in the speaking profession and holds the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation.​ An accomplished author, Shep has written several bestselling books on customer service and experience, including "Moments of Magic," "The Loyal Customer," "The Cult of the Customer," "The Amazement Revolution," "Amaze Every Customer Every Time," "Be Amazing or Go Home," "The Convenience Revolution," and "I'll Be Back." His articles have been featured in hundreds of publications, and he is a regular contributor to Forbes.​ Shep is also the creator of The Customer Focus™ program, designed to help organizations develop a customer service culture and loyalty mindset. Through his work, he emphasizes that customer service is not just a department but a philosophy that should permeate every aspect of an organization.​   Navigating the Automotive Customer Experience: Embracing AI and Building Loyalty Key Takeaways Customer Satisfaction and Experience are Distinct: Understanding the difference and focusing on both can elevate a dealership from best in class to world class. Leveraging Existing Customer Relationships: Prioritizing current customer engagement and retention is more cost-effective and profitable than focusing solely on new lead acquisition. Artificial Intelligence as a Game-Changer: AI innovations are transforming the dealership landscape by enhancing customer interactions and streamlining operations. Enhancing the Customer Experience in Automotive Retail In the rapidly evolving automotive industry, dealerships must adapt their strategies to exceed customer expectations. Sean V. Bradley and Shep Hyken dive into the intricacies of customer satisfaction and experience, two interrelated yet distinct components that every dealership should master. According to Hyken, "The way that whole thing is handled, is it easy? Is it hassle-free?" Such questions underscore the need for seamless web interfaces and responsive sales teams to create an unparalleled service atmosphere. Customer experience encompasses every interaction a consumer has with a dealership, from visiting the website to consulting with a salesperson. For car dealerships aiming for world-class status, it's crucial to transcend industry standards and look outside the industry for inspiration. As Hyken wisely notes, "They're going to compare you to the best experience they ever had." This calls for analyzing experiences provided by leaders like Amazon and Walmart to ensure dealerships offer frictionless, memorable interactions that build long-term loyalty. Retention vs. Acquisition: The Loyalty Revenue Stream Prioritizing existing customers over acquiring new ones can seem counterintuitive, yet it's a strategic pivot that aligns with both customer retention and profitability. As discussed by Sean V. Bradley, focusing on your current customer base can lead to higher conversion rates and increased revenue. "NADA says that a prior customer is a 65% closing ratio and a much higher gross profit," he remarks, emphasizing a shift towards maintaining strong relationships with your existing clientele. Moreover, service departments play a pivotal role. With a "service customer to your point is seven times as likely to purchase a vehicle if they service a car," embracing service excellence not only ensures immediate customer satisfaction but also strengthens their connection to the brand, making them more likely to return for future purchases. The foundational principle is clear: solidify customer loyalty through consistent, exceptional service, thereby reducing churn and boosting long-term profitability. The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Dealerships Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to reshape traditional dealership models by optimizing customer interactions and operational efficiencies. Shep Hyken highlights AI's potential in generating personalized and high-quality customer interactions. "AI needs to be smart enough to not give the wrong answer," Hyken advocates, outlining the balance between maintaining human oversight and deploying AI for scalable customer service solutions. Podium's AI-powered platforms offer tools that handle after-hours inquiries, schedule test drives, and maintain conversational consistency across multiple platforms, ensuring a seamless transition between digital and in-person interactions. In an age where most touchpoints before a sale are digital, embedding AI in CRM systems elevates customer experiences. As Bradley affirms, "If your AI is integrated with your CRM, if your AI is integrated with your online reputation strategy…it is next level." By streamlining these processes, dealerships can enhance engagement, nurture relationships, and ultimately drive more sales.   The automotive industry stands at a pivotal juncture where transformation is not just necessary but imperative. By understanding the nuances between customer service and experience, fostering robust relationships with existing customers, and embracing cutting-edge technologies like AI, dealerships can not only survive the intricacies of the modern market but truly thrive in it. The insights shared by industry experts provide a roadmap to not only meet but exceed customer expectations, ensuring loyalty and profitability in uncertain times.   Resources: Podium: Discover how Podium's innovative AI technology can unlock unparalleled efficiency and drive your dealership's sales to new heights. Visit www.podium.com/mcs to learn more!   Dealer Synergy & Bradley On Demand: The automotive industry's #1 training, tracking, testing, and certification platform and consulting & accountability firm.   The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group: Join the #1 Mastermind Group in the Automotive Industry! With over 29,000 members, gain access to successful automotive mentors & managers, the best industry practices, & collaborate with automotive professionals from around the WORLD! Join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today!   Win the Game of Googleopoly: Unlocking the secret strategy of search engines.     The Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast is Proudly Sponsored By: Podium: Elevating Dealership Excellence with Intelligent Customer Engagement Solutions. Unlock unparalleled efficiency and drive sales with Podium's innovative AI technology, featured proudly on the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast. Visit www.podium.com/mcs to learn more!   Dealer Synergy: The #1 Automotive Sales Training, Consulting, and Accountability Firm in the industry! With over two decades of experience in building Internet Departments and BDCs, we have developed the most effective automotive Internet Sales, BDC, and CRM solutions. Our expertise in creating phone scripts, rebuttals, CRM action plans, strategies, and templates ensures that your dealership's tools and personnel reach their full potential.   Bradley On Demand: The automotive sales industry's top Interactive Training, Tracking, Testing, and Certification Platform. Featuring LIVE Classes and over 9,000 training modules, our platform equips your dealership with everything needed to sell more cars, more often, and more profitably!

Picture this: You're told to ditch the hat if you want to be taken seriously. Instead, you double down, wear it louder—and your business explodes. In this juicy episode of Communication Queens, Kimberly Spencer sits down with Jamar Jones, founder of FourEva Media, for a no-BS conversation on how owning your vibe is the ultimate visibility strategy. From his hip hop roots to headlining keynote stages (yes, sometimes with a live performance), Jamar breaks down why 1,000 true fans are worth more than a million random likes—and how congruence is the secret sauce to building a magnetic personal brand. Together, they unpack: What “branding from the inside out” really means Why your childhood dreams and cringe moments are branding gold How falling on your ass (literally) can skyrocket your relatability When it's time to hire professionals to elevate your aesthetic The energetic difference between a business brand vs. personal brand Whether you're stepping out from behind the biz curtain or ready to stop blending in, this convo is your permission slip to get louder, weirder, and way more YOU—because the world doesn't need another copycat. It needs your story, your sparkle, and yes… your hat. Grab your mic, Queen. Let's brand from the soul.

SummaryIn this conversation, Tonya Harris Cornileus, Ph.D., explores the importance of listening to, trusting, and following one's inner wisdom. She shares personal experiences and insights on how to reconnect with this inner voice, emphasizing practices like quiet reflection, journaling, and meditation. Quotes from Oprah and philosopher William B. Irvine help to ground this article in the power of Aha! Moments. The discussion highlights the journey of self-trust and the transformative power of acting on inner guidance, ultimately encouraging listeners to create space for their inner voice and take aligned actions in their lives.Keywordsinner wisdom, inner voice, self-trust, personal growth, intuition, life transitions, spiritual guidance, self-awareness, mindfulness, personal development, leadershipTakeawaysYour inner voice speaks to you; will you listen?Listening more closely can reveal powerful insights.Trusting your inner voice is a journey back to self.Your inner wisdom knows what's true before your mind does.Creating space in your life helps you hear your inner voice.Practices like journaling and meditation can enhance self-awareness.Rebuilding trust in yourself is essential for personal growth.Following your inner voice leads to living in alignment.Insight requires action to transform your life.Courage is needed to follow your inner voice.Sound Bites"Trust and believe in yourself.""Insight alone isn't enough.""Create space to hear it, trust it."Chapters00:00 Listening to Your Inner Wisdom05:41 Hearing Your Inner Voice: How to Recognize the Wisdom Within08:32 Trusting Your Inner Voice: Reclaiming Your Inner Authority11:13 Following Your Inner Voice: Living in AlignmentThank you for listening. I truly appreciate you! I invite you to follow Your Aha! Life - The Podcast. Hit the notifications bell so that you're the first to know when a new episode or audio blog is released. Leave a review, comment, or send me an email to let me know what you think of this audio blog or the podcast. XO, Tonya

We talk a lot about loneliness these days, but we don't talk enough about why being alone triggers such deep fear for so many of us. Is it just about relationships? Or is there something deeper, hard-wired into our biology and psychology? Spoiler: it's both. And understanding the roots of this fear is the first step to changing it. If you've ever felt that pit in your stomach at the thought of an empty weekend, or stayed in a relationship far too long just to avoid solitude, you know exactly what I mean. The fear of being alone is deeply human. While part of it is hard-wired for survival, much of it is learned and reinforced by the world around us. The good news? Once we understand the roots of this fear, we can start to unlearn it, and even come to appreciate alone time as a source of strength, not weakness. Today we'll discuss the biology, the psychology, and my top five research-backed action steps to reduce your fear of being alone.____________________________Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/why-were-so-afraid-to-be-alone-and-the-five-steps-to-feel-at-ease-with-yourselfGet the worksheet Create Your Own Script for Moments of Loneliness: https://abbymedcalf.com/lonelinessLearn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbookWant to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won't Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book____________________________Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to  https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you'll find past episodes.Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.comReady to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shopSay hello on social:Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthrivingLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthrivingYouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 92 of the WenDirkCast, Jimbo and Calva are joined by FM legend WorkTheSpace as he reflects on his first full season in MFL! ⚽

Lantsman tears into a Liberal MP during a fiery Question Period exchange over the lack of budget. Moments later, Poilievre drops a BOMBSHELL that leaves a reporter STUNNED putting Liberals on Notice. Go to https://www.groundnews.com/elev8 for a better way to stay informed. Subscribe for 40% off unlimited access to world-wide coverage through my link. Send a one-time contribution to the show - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=XARF5X38AMZULListen to our Podcast on the go: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elev8podcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elev8podcast X: https://twitter.com/TheElev8Podcast0:00 - Intro01:50 - Lantsman Calls out Audacious Spending15:10 - Minster of Finance Dodges Budget Question on CBC19:50 - Poilievre Informs the Conservatives will be Voting Against Carney22:30 - City Declares State of Emergency over Crime Wave

Making changes in our own lives is hard enough. It's even more challenging when we need to lead our teams or organizations to do it. That's why I invited Dan Heath back to the podcast. Dan is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Made to Stick, Switch, and The Power of Moments. This time he's here to talk about his latest book, Reset: How to Change What's Not Working. Dan shares powerful stories of leaders who've helped their teams and organizations make high-impact changes. He discusses the tools they used and leverage points they prioritized. This book takes change management to a whole other level.   Related Links What's the Goal of the Goal? Dan Heath on Innovative Problem Solving (interview) Dan Heath on Creating Moments that Matter (interview) The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.

Fabs continues in our series of Moments with Jesus. In this sermon, we explore the healing power of Jesus' solidarity; especially in entering our sorrow. John 11:17-36 www.thevineaustin.org

Hello Interactors, This week, four strange bird encounters landed in my lap — three in real life, one on my screen. First, a crow tore through the bushes in our yard chasing a frantic nuthatch. Moments later, I spotted two more crows feasting on roadkill just outside our house. Then, while walking with my wife, we watched four ducks in hot pursuit of another, flapping furiously down the street — some kind of aerial turf war. And finally, scrolling through my feed, I stumbled on a paper describing a Cooper's Hawk hacking the city's traffic system to hunt smarter. After all that, I tried seeing cities as a bird might. So I wrote as one.HISS, HUM, HUNTI first sense the city as vibration. Before sun rays even breech the branches, a hiss of car tires emerge; street lamps click off; somewhere a garage door rumbles open. Each resonance strikes the hollow chambers of my bones like sonar. It's a sketch of distance, density, and direction. This all makes perfect sense to me even though I am just a kid. A juvenile Cooper's Hawk — Accipiter cooperii — yet the human-made maze below me is as legible to me as the nest I left barely two winters ago. What follows, in human words, is a recount of one day's hunt. I hope to demonstrate what humans regard as intelligence, innovation, and enterprise exists in a single act of predation.DANCING WITH DATA AT DAWNPerched on a gray mast of the Main and Prospect traffic light, I begin to render the scene. My basemap is no pixel grid glowing on some screen across town; it is a topological organ in my scull. Topology matters when a lamppost sits one maneuver away from the porch roof, which is one glide away from the dumpster rim. My so-called ‘bird brain' calculates dynamic flows of probability. One flip of a traffic light, a garbage truck rolls by, and that gust of wind changes direction. My internal map pulses between “larger” when prey likelihood rises and “smaller” when likelihood falls.As I gaze out above the east-west avenue, a slipstream peels off the 7AM wave of commuters. I spot a sparrow in a vortex that spirals from the garbage truck's wake at 07∶13. That acoustic shadow beneath that florist's van is one place I could pass unseen. But is a sparrow worth it?What I am doing — unknown even to myself — is what spatial scientists call real‑time kernel‑density estimation. At any point on a simple 2D path I can plop a small mathematical bump — a kernel. I can then reason about the density mapped below me by stacking up every bump's contribution at a particular spot. That once scatter of points on a map morphs into a smooth curve that shows where meaningful observations truly cluster. I continuously weight a landscape of pigeons, cyclists, and idling SUVs by situational context rather than simple Euclidean distance.Complexity geographer David O'Sullivan calls this kind of adaptive map a narrative model — a story the system tells itself so it can keep acting. My mental basemap obeys what is adjacent to what on this map. After all, a three‑meter hedge is more impenetrable than thirty meters of empty air; therefore straight‑line distances can lie and deceive. When humans try to simplify distances by saying, ‘as the crow flies', they have no idea what they're leaving out.BRAKES BUILD BARRICADESAt 07∶26 a stainless‑steel button is pressed; I hear the relay's metallic click 3.2 seconds before the little white pedestrian blinks alive. I am perched here because I anticipated this poke by pedestrians on their morning commute. Vehicles will now queue as these bi-peds spill into the cross walk. The stacked metal boxes of steel, rubber, and plastic will form a barricade forty meters long…potentially.Brake‑lights align into a pulsing crimson corridor whose half‑life I have calculated and averaged across nineteen previous dawns. Humans call the coming congestion a nuisance, but I call it camouflage. For twenty‑two seconds the asphalt canyon's turbulence drops below an acceptable range. I can now hover as if among cedars.A scientist has been watching from the opposite curb. They will soon begin recording this trick in their field book as so: a hawk anticipates the signal pattern and times its dives to the red‑phase distribution of brake lights.Because most queues are short, but occasionally very long, I have to be careful to time this properly. If I dive for prey based on the overall mean of the lineup, I will arrive while half the cars were still rolling to a stop — dangerous. So instead, I consider just the top-10% longest lines. Scientists marvel that I learned this algorithm in a single winter. I marvel that they need calculators to compute it.ZEBRA STRIPE SLALOM STRIKEI drop. The scent of hot rubber folds swirls with the cedar‑resin on my breast feathers as the warm air fills my plumage. The slowing bumper of a school bus becomes a landing spot — a moving parapet. Fresh into the dive, the thermoplastic zebra stripes flash white‑white‑white like a stroboscopic speedometer. None of this was made for me, yet every dimension matters for my survival. The curb‑to‑planter setback of 0.9 meters sets my glide angle; the bollard spacing — installed last year to calm e‑scooters — creates a slalom that funnels starlings toward an ornamental plum in a front lawn.Urban design handbooks invoke words like livability and placemaking, as if these geometries were some kind of neutral toolkit. But for me, in the instant before impact, this curb‑to‑planter setback, this bollard slalom, adjudicates more than legal fiction — it means life and death.Urban forms may look passive, yet every angle, radius, and dwell time means someone has won and someone has lost — wide curb radii speed cars through a right-turn but lengthen the crossing exposure for a toddler. Urban geometry is power cast in concrete; it never clocks off, and is both political and ecological: a three‑second refuge for a starling is a three‑second targeting solution for me.FORCE AND FEATHERS FACES FEEDBACKImpact. Feathers erupt like dark gray confetti. The starling crumbles under thirty‑four newtons of closing force — about the weight of a brick slammed into its ribcage. While I mantle the prize, a more philosophical bird might wonder: Who authored this death? Was it my neuromuscular burst alone? Or the person whose fingertip initiated a forty‑second cascade of stopped traffic? Or the traffic engineer who — chasing level‑of‑service targets — extended the red phase by six seconds last fiscal year?Philosophy of science warns against naïve linear causation; urban events rarely run in neat A → B lines. Herbert Simon, writing on complex systems, described cities and organisms as “nearly decomposable hierarchies,” where slow, macro‑scale layers — like signal‑cycle regulations, curb geometries, and commuter habits — set the boundary conditions within which rapid micro‑events unfold. My talon snap and a starling's dodge happen inside those higher‑order constraints, even as countless such micro‑acts, in aggregate, keep the larger structure of life humming along.My strike, therefore, is a city‑scale phenomenon folded into tendon and keratin — street grids, signal cycles, and global supply chains compressed into one ballistic gesture. In the metallic tang of blood this mystery unfolds. I taste data: adipose fat tissue infused with fryer grease, feather sheaths dusted in brake dust, hormone ratios ticking through molt stage like seasonal code. Each swallow becomes a lab assessment — an unwitting biopsy of the urban food web — revealing how corn subsidies, restaurant waste, and airborne microplastics percolate up the trophic ladder. To devour a single starling is to audit the metabolic ledger of the Anthropocene, one protein strand at a time.All of which reminds me that agency, mine, yours, the starling, is relational: the prey's demise is over‑determined by a network whose nodes include asphalt viscosity — how a petrochemical blend modulates surface friction, drainage, and midday heat plumes — and municipal bond ratings that decide whether this intersection receives fresh pavement or another crosswalk. Chemistry, finance, and instinct co‑author every kill I make, and every step you take.FIBERS, FOSSILS, AND FIRMWARE REFRESHDusk now drapes the mast in violet. Streetlamps flicker on; LED headlight arrays begin tinting the roadway cyan. Beneath the darkening asphalt, copper once meant for a clicking telegraphs now pipes broadband; beneath that, bricks baked when canals were high‑tech cradle those cables like red‑clay fossils. Media archaeologist Shannon Mattern argues that cities have always computed — tallying grain on cuneiform tablets, ringing bell‑tower hours to synchronize labor, routing mail through pneumatic tubes — only the substrates keep shifting, from clay and bronze to fiber optics and silicon. And trust me, nature was doing math long before humans claimed to invent it.From my perch, epochs overlay transparently: timber palisades, horse drawn carriage tracks, fiber conduits. My hunting tactic is merely firmware patch v.2025 in a 5,000‑year old operating system. Your protocol tomorrow may be Li‑Fi pulses from a smart pole — a future where streetlamps won't just illuminate, they'll whisper streams of data in rapid-fire flashes — or the hiss of an autonomous shuttle that brakes at frequencies human reflexes never reach.And you'll be impressed with yourself. Meanwhile, I listen, map, and adjust — in my world here, survival goes to whoever learns faster, not whoever hits harder. Every fresh tactic buys a heartbeat of advantage, yet it also tightens the ratchet: the prey adapts, signals change, habits shift. Humans follow the same spiral — each smarter signal controller, each app‑driven reroute, plugs one gap while opening two more, slipping us all a step deeper into the city's endless, restless loop.OF DASHBOARDS AND DAGGER-WINGSHumans may obsess over their dashboards and digital twins, yet a hawk that weighs less than a laptop already runs a live cognitive twin of the urban systems you built. Your impressed with monthly model updates while my model is updated at wingbeat resolution. If Homo sapiens hope to build a resilient future they might start where I perch: by listening for weak signals, mapping contingencies as well as coordinates, and recognizing that every curb, click, and feather participates in these nested conversations of forces.The next time you press that crosswalk button and that electromechanical relay inside the signal‑control box snaps the circuit closed, ask not only whether it is safe to cross but what other intelligences have read that clue before you.Meet us in the hush of those red taillights — inhabit that brief, engine‑silent interstitial where the white pedestrian man shines — then test what flickers in your own peripheral “bird brain”. Listen for the thin rustle of variables you once called noise; trace how a single press of that button ripples through nerves, budgets, buildings and beaks. Hold the silence long enough to notice how even I, a vicious dagger‑winged stalker, leave scraps for ground‑feeders and vacate a block after one clean kill so others may eat. If you can rest in that hush without lunging for your phone or some manically measured meaningless metric, you may begin to practice reciprocity — paring appetite to need, letting leftovers seed the next cycle — while stalking your own assumptions with the same taloned precision I bring to feather and flesh. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit interplace.io

On today's episode, I'm diving into a topic that so many parents ask about: The 30 Minute Nap!Short naps can feel frustrating and confusing—but they're often a completely normal part of your baby's sleep development. In this episode, I walk you through what's happening during these “catnaps,” when to expect longer naps, and gentle strategies that can help stretch nap lengths over time.We also touch on important mindset shifts for navigating this season with more confidence (and less stress), plus when it might be time to reach out for personalized support.Tune in to hear:

What if a broken sacred object set two young boys on a journey that would change not only their lives, but reveal the soul of a land and its people? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Kent Nerburn, PhD, on his new novel Lone Dog Road.  Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate! Kent Nerburn is the author of Lone Dog Road and 15 other books on spirituality and Native American themes.  He has been praised as one of the few American writers who can bridge the gap between Native and non-Native cultures.  Kent has twice won the Minnesota Book Award.  His book, Chief Joseph and the Flight of the Nez Perce, was a New York Times best seller, and his internationally acclaimed Neither Wolf nor Dog, which was the One Book South Dakota selection for 2019, is used in multi-cultural curriculums around the world. Kent is currently serving as cultural liaison to the International Smile Network in their work providing dental and cleft palate surgeries to children on the reservations in South Dakota.  http://www.kentnerburn.comFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

What if the very things we've been praised for, working nonstop, shrinking to fit in, and always showing up strong, are actually costing us our mental health? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Dr. Kristen Guillory on The Power of Pause. Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate! Dr. Kristen Guillory is an acclaimed international speaker, author, coach, and mental health professional known for her transformative, heart-centered approach. Earning her Ph.D. by age 27, and has since delivered over 1,500 talks to audiences totaling more than 500,000 people. Blending humor, storytelling, and deep insight, Dr. Guillory empowers individuals to break free from emotional barriers and live with clarity, purpose, and ease. Her expertise has been featured on NBC, FOX, CBS affiliates, and Forbes. She is the author of Walking Through the Fog and Look, Stop Hiding, and the founder of Candid Conversations for Men — a powerful space for truth-telling and healing. Based in South Florida, she continues to inspire global audiences to live more authentically and joyfully. https://www.kristenguillory.comFor more show information visit:www.MariannePestana.com

What if everything you thought you remembered about your life, your love, or even your own mind wasn't the full truth? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Lisa Loop on her new novel States of Matter. Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate!Lisa Loop (MFA UCR/PD) has published in NBC.com/THINK, The Coachella Review, Kelp, Ballast, Gastropoda, University of Alabama Z Publications, Gunpowder Press, and other places. She is the author of five books, two under the pen name Thora Wolf. A former Hollywood creative executive originally from Seattle, she lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their elderly Aussie Shepherd mix. https://www.lisaloop.comFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

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In the quiet hills outside Edinburgh, a routine drive turned into a night of terror. In August 1992, Garry Wood and Colin Wright were delivering a satellite TV system to a friend when they encountered something that defied explanation — a strange black object hovering above the A70 road. Moments later, they experienced a blinding flash of light... and then, nothing. What should have been a short journey stretched into hours of missing time. Under hypnosis, both men would later recall being taken aboard a craft and subjected to bizarre and disturbing examinations by non-human entities. In this episode, we uncover the eerie details of the A70 alien abduction — one of the UK's most compelling and controversial UFO cases. Was it a shared hallucination, a cover-up, or genuine contact with beings from beyond our world? Strap in as we travel down a dark road of mystery, memory, and the unknown.A70 alien abductionA70 UFO incidentGarry Wood and Colin WrightScottish alien abduction1992 Edinburgh UFOA70 UFO casealien abduction ScotlandUK UFO encountersmissing time alien abduction extraterrestrial encounterUFO sightings UKhypnosis alien abductionalien medical experimentsclose encounter of the fourth kindUFO road encounterunsolved alien casesparanormal Scotlandalien abduction podcastUFO mystery podcastBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beyond-the-shadows--6218555/support.

Trump says Elon Not Leaving White House Save up to 80% off Top MyPillow Prodcuts with our Promo Code KANE at Checkout https://www.mypillow.com/kane Thank you to our Top Patreon Supporters! Andrew and Connie, Cristine, ETW, Chuck, Pamela, Nick, Wesley,  Heather, David, Maria in Texas, Alice, LeeZep, Shawana, George, Brandon, John S, Frank, Dale,David,Laura B, Rob L. SFjr. Support the show and become a Patreon Supporter! https://www.patreon.com/realbriancraigshow https://briancraigshow.com/ The Dark Locket https://a.co/d/5BlApX7 The Flower Story https://seanfeenybooks.square.site https://tacticalvikingbrand.com https://www.lifelovesolutions.com The Vagus Nerve Protocol https://a.co/d/9mNbwKH 225 Moments  https://open.spotify.com/show/2zsQ0SmyEM5vuhZzX5tGEE?si=f9bce418925048b7 LaPorta Roofing  https://www.laportaroofing.com/      

A custody exchange on December 25th turned into a deadly ambush in the parking lot of a Gainesville Walgreens.Amanda Janzen waited in her car with five kids and a loaded gun. Moments later, her ex's girlfriend was dead, and Amanda was leading police on a 100-mph chase—her children crying in the backseat.This is the case of Amanda Janzen, and the murder that unfolded in front of her own children.If you or someone you know is in danger, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7.************************************************************************************************Do you have thoughts about this case, or is there a specific true crime case you'd like to hear about? Let me know with an email or a voice message: https://murderandlove.com/contactFind the sources used in this episode and learn more about how to support Love and Murder: Heartbreak to Homicide and gain access to even more cases, including bonus episodes, ad-free and intro-free cases, case files and more at: https://murderandlove.comMusic:℗ lesfreemusicBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/love-and-murder-heartbreak-to-homicide--4348896/support.

A weekly magazine-style radio show featuring the voices and stories of Asians and Pacific Islanders from all corners of our community. The show is produced by a collective of media makers, deejays, and activists. Happy Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Even though the Trump Administration has eliminated recognizing cultural heritage months, we are still celebrating diversity and inclusion here at APEX Express and KPFA. We believe in lifting up people's voices and tonight on APEX Express the Powerleegirls are focusing on “Asian American Children's book authors”. Powerleegirl hosts Miko Lee and daughter Jalena Keane-Lee speak with: Michele Wong McSween, Gloria Huang, and Andrea Wang   AAPINH Month Children's Books part 1 transcript Opening: [00:00:00] Apex Express Asian Pacific expression. Community and cultural coverage, music and calendar, new visions and voices, coming to you with an Asian Pacific Islander point of view. It's time to get on board the Apex Express.   Ayame Keane-Lee: [00:00:49] Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Even though the Trump administration has eliminated recognizing cultural heritage months, we are still celebrating diversity and inclusion. Here at Apex Express and KPFA, we believe in lifting up people's voices. And tonight on Apex Express, the PowerLeeGirls are focusing on Asian American Children's book authors. PowerLeeGirl hosts Miko Lee and daughter Jalena Keane-Lee. Speak with Michele Wong McSween, Gloria Huang and Andrea Wang. Thanks for joining us tonight on Apex Express. Enjoy the show.   Miko Lee: [00:01:21] Welcome, Michele Wong McSween to Apex Express.    Michele Wong McSween: [00:01:26] Thank you, Miko. It's nice to be here.    Miko Lee: [00:01:28] I'm really happy to talk with you about your whole children's series, Gordon & Li Li, which is absolutely adorable. I wanna start very first with a personal question that I ask all of my guests, which is, who are your people and what legacy do you carry with you?   Michele Wong McSween: [00:01:45] I would say my people are really my family starting with, my great, great grandparents who came here down to my grandparents, my parents, and onto my children because, to me family is. The reason why I created Gordon & Li Li in the first place, it was really to bridge that connection for my children. I didn't grow up feeling that connected with my culture because as a fourth generation Chinese American, I was really in the belief that I'm American. Why do I need to know anything about my culture? Why do I need to speak Chinese? I never learned. As a sidebar to that, I never learned to speak Chinese and it didn't really hit me until I had my own kids that I was really doing a disservice to not only my kids, but to myself. my people are my family. I do this for my kids. I do this to almost apologize to my parents for being so, Disrespectful to my amazing culture and I do it for the families who really want to connect and bridge that gap for their own children and for themselves.    Miko Lee: [00:02:53] And what legacy do you carry with you?    Michele Wong McSween: [00:02:55] Again, my family. My, great grandparents. Really. Started our family's legacy with the hard work and the prejudices and all the things that they endured so that we could have a better life. And I've always felt that it is my responsibility to teach my own kids about the sacrifices that were made and not to make them feel guilty, but to just make them appreciate that we are here. Because of the the blood, sweat, and tears that their ancestors did for them. And so we are, eternally grateful for that. I think it's important for us to continue that legacy of always doing our best, being kind and doing what we can do to further the experience of not just our family, but the people in our community that we connect with and to the greater world.    Miko Lee: [00:03:43] when you were growing up, were your parents speaking with you in Chinese and did you hear about your great grandparents and their legacy? Was that part of your upbringing?    Michele Wong McSween: [00:03:52] I heard about my great grandparents in the stories that my mom told us, but to be quite honest, I wasn't receptive to really digging deep in my cultural understanding of. my great-grandfather and what he went through. I know mom, I know he came over in 19 whatever. I know he brought over all these young sons from his village, but I really didn't fully take it in and. No, I didn't hear Chinese spoken in the house much. The only time my parents spoke it was to each other so that we didn't know what they were talking about. They had like this secret code, language. My experience with my language was not, That positive. we did attempt to go to Chinese school only to be teased by all the other kids because we didn't speak it. It didn't end up well. my mom ended up pulling us out and so no, we were really not connected all that much to the language.   Miko Lee: [00:04:48] I can really relate to what you're saying. As a fifth generation Chinese American, and my parents their ancestors came from different provinces, so their dialects were so different that they even spoke to each other in English. 'cause they couldn't understand each other in Chinese. So it happens so often. Yeah. Yeah. And so I really relate to that. I'm wondering if there was an epiphany in your life or a time where you thought, oh, I. I wish I knew more of those stories about my ancestors or was there some catalyst for you that changed?   Michele Wong McSween: [00:05:17] All of this really kind of happened when I moved to New York. I, you know, raised in Sacramento, went to college in the Bay Area, lived in San Francisco for a while with a job, and then I eventually moved to New York. And it wasn't until I came to New York and I met Asians or Chinese Americans like me that actually spoke Chinese and they knew about cool stuff to do in Chinatown. It really opened my eyes to this new cool world of the Chinese culture because I really experienced Chinatown for the first time when I moved to New York. And it was just so incredible to see all these people, living together in this community. And they all looked the same. But here's the thing, they all spoke Chinese, or the majority of them spoke Chinese. So when I went to Chinatown and they would look at me and speak to me in Chinese and I would give them this blank stare. They would just look at me like, oh my gosh, she doesn't even speak her own language. And it kind of made me feel bad. And this was really the first time that it dawned on me that, oh wow, I, I kind of feel like something's missing. And then it really hit me when I had my kids, because they're half Chinese and I thought, oh my gosh, wait a minute, if I'm their last connection to the Chinese culture and I don't speak the language. They have no chance of learning anything about their language they couldn't go that deep into their culture if I didn't learn about it. So that really sparked this whole, Gordon & Li Li journey of learning and discovering language and culture for my kids.    Miko Lee: [00:06:51] Share more about that. How, what happened actually, what was the inspiration for creating the Children's book series?    Michele Wong McSween: [00:06:58] It was really my children, I really felt that it was my responsibility to teach them about their culture and language and, if I didn't know the language, then I better learn it. So I enrolled all of us in different Mandarin courses. They had this, I found this really cute kids' Mandarin class. I went to adult Mandarin classes and I chose Mandarin because that was the approved official language in China. I am from Taishan, My parents spoke Taishanese, but I thought, well, if Mandarin's the official language, I should choose that one probably so that my kids will have at least a better chance at maybe some better jobs in the future or connecting with, the billion people that speak it. I thought Mandarin would be the way to go. When I started going to these classes and I just realized, wow, this is really hard, not just to learn the language, but to learn Mandarin Chinese, because we're not just talking about learning how to say the four different tones. We're talking about reading these characters that if you look at a Chinese character, you have absolutely no idea what it sounds like if you're, if you're learning Spanish or French or German, you can see the letters and kind of sound it out a little bit. But with Chinese characters. No chance. So I found it extremely difficult and I realized, wow, I really need to support my kids more because if I am going to be the one that's going to be bridging this connection for them, I need to learn more and I need to find some more resources to help us. when we would have bedtime story time, that whole routine. That was always the favorite time of my kids to be really, quiet and they would really absorb what I was saying, or we would talk about our days or just talk about funny things and I realized, wow, these books that they love and we have to read over and over and over again. this is the way that they're going to get the information. And I started searching high and low for these books. back in 2006, they didn't exist. and so I realized if they didn't exist and I really wanted them for my kids, then I needed to create them. That's the impetus, is there was nothing out there and I really wanted it so badly that I had to create it myself.   Miko Lee: [00:09:09] Oh, I love that. And I understand you started out self-publishing. Can you talk a little bit about that journey?    Michele Wong McSween: [00:09:15] I'm glad I didn't know what I know today because it was really hard. luckily I had, A friend who used to work for a toy company, it was all through connections. there was nothing really on Google about it. there was no Amazon print on demand. There were none of these companies that provide these services like today. So I just kept asking questions. Hey, do you know a toy manufacturer in China that maybe prints books? Do you know a company that could help me? get my books to the states. Do you know an illustrator that can help me illustrate my books? Because I had gone to fashion design school, but I had not learned to illustrate characters or things in a book. So asking questions and not being afraid to ask the questions was really how I was able to do it because, Without the help of friends and family, I wouldn't have been able to do this. I had all my friends look at my books, show them to their kids. I had my kids look at them, and I kind of just figured it out as I went along. Ultimately when I did publish my first book, I had so much support from my kids' schools. To read the books there, I had support from a local play space for kids that we would go to. I really leaned on my community to help me, get the books out there, or actually it was just one at the time. Two years later I self-published two more books. So I had three in total. no one tells you that when you self-publish a book, the easy part is actually creating it. The hard part is what comes after that, which is the pr, the marketing, the pounding, the pavement, knocking on the doors to ask people to buy your books, and that was really hard for me. I would just take my books in a bag and I would explain my story to people and I would show them my books. sometimes they would say, okay, I'll take one of each, or Okay, we'll try it out. and slowly but surely they would reorder from me. I just slowly, slowly built up, a whole Roster of bookstores and I kept doing events in New York.    I started doing events in Los Angeles and San Francisco, and through that I gained some following, some fans and people would tell their friends about me. they would give them to their nieces they would give them to their cousin's kids, or, things like that. I knew that I had to do it because my ultimate goal was to have Scholastic be my publisher. That was my ultimate goal. Because they are the publisher that I grew up with, that I love that I connected with, that I was so excited to get their book club, little flyer. I would check off every book that I wanted. And my mom never said no. She always let me get every single book I wanted. I realize now that that's what really Created the love of books for me is just having access to them and, going to the libraries and seeing all these books on the bookshelves and being able to take them out and read them on the spot. And then if I loved them enough, I would check them out and take them home and read them over and over. So it was really, my experience, having that love for books that I thought, oh gosh, it would be a dream. To have Scholastic become my publisher. So after 10 long years of events and community outreach and selling to these bookstores, I finally thought, okay, I've sold, about 17,000, 18,000 books. Maybe, maybe now I can take my series to them. I also had created an app. Maybe I can take this to them and show them what I've done. Maybe they'll be interested in acquiring me. And I got an appointment with the editor and I pitched my books on my app and within a couple of days they offered to acquire my books, which was my dream come true. So anyway, that was a very long story for how self-publishing really is and how ultimately it really helped my dream come true.    Miko Lee: [00:13:08] Now your books are on this Scholastic book, fair Circuit, right?    Michele Wong McSween: [00:13:13] Yes, they are. Well, it's actually just one book. They took the three books, which were everyday Words. Count in Mandarin and learn animals in Mandarin. They took all three books and they put them in one big compilation book, which is called My First Mandarin Words with Gordon & Li Li. So it's a bigger book. It's a bigger board book. Still very, very sturdy and it's a great, starter book for any family because it has those three first themes that were the first themes that I taught my own boys, and I think. It just, it's very natural for kids to want to learn how to count. animals were, and my kids were animal lovers, so I knew that that's what would keep them interested in learning Mandarin because they actually loved the topic. So, yes, my first mandarin words with Gordon & Li Li does live on Scholastics big roster.   Miko Lee: [00:14:01] Fun. Your dream come true. I love it. Yeah. Thanks. And you were speaking earlier about your background in fashion design. Has there been any impact of your fashion design background on your voice as a children's book author?   Michele Wong McSween: [00:14:14] I don't know if my background as a fashion designer has had any impact on my voice. I think it's had an impact on how I imagined my books and how I color my books and how I designed them because of working with, you know, color palettes and, and putting together collections I can visually see and, can anticipate. Because I have that background, I can kind of anticipate what a customer might want. And also, you know, speaking with people at my events and seeing what kids gravitate to, that also helps. But I think there's so much more to being an author than just writing the books. You know, when I go to my events, I have a table display, I have setups, I have props, I have, I actually now have a, a small. Capsule of merchandise because I missed designing clothes. So I have a teeny collection of, you know, sweaters, hoodies, onesies, a tote bag, and plushies   Miko Lee: [00:15:04] they're super cute by the way.    Michele Wong McSween: [00:15:06] Oh, thank you. So, you know, fashion has come in in different ways and I think having that background has really helped. kind of become who they are    Miko Lee: [00:15:17] Can you tell us about the latest book in the series, which is Gordon and Li Li All About Me. Can you tell a little bit about your latest?   Michele Wong McSween: [00:15:25] Gordon & Li Li All About Me is really, it's, to me, it's. I think my most fun interactive book because it really gets kids and parents up and out of their chairs, out of their seats and moving around. And you know, as a parent, I always would think about the kind of books that my kids would gravitate towards. What would they want to read and what as a parent would I want to read with my kids? Because really reading is all about connection with your kids. That's what I loved about books is it gave me a way to connect with my kids. And so a book about body parts to me is just a really fun way to be animated and get up and move around and you can tickle and, and squeeze and shake it around and dance around. And, you know, having three boys, my house was just like a big energy ball. So I knew that this book would be a really fun one for families and I have two nieces and a nephew, and I now, they're my new target market testers, and they just loved it. They had so much fun pointing to their body parts and the book ends with head, shoulders, knees, and toes in English and in Mandarin. And so of course. Every kid knows head, shoulders, knees, and toes in English. So we sing that. We get up, we point to our pottered parts, we shake it around, we dance around. And then the fun part is teaching them head, shoulders, knees, and toes in Mandarin because they're already familiar with the song. It's not scary to learn something in Mandarin. It just kind of naturally happens. And so I think the All About Me book is just a really fun way to connect with kids. I've actually launched it at a couple of events already and the response to the book has been overwhelming. I was at the Brooklyn Children's Museum and even the president of the museum came and did the head shoulders. Knees and toes, songs with us. It was so much fun. Everybody was dancing around and having a great time. So I'm just really, really excited for people to pick up this book and really learn about the body. It's, you know, body positivity, it's body awareness, and it's just a great way to connect with your kids.   Miko Lee: [00:17:31] So fun. I, I saw that you're recently at the Asian American Book Con. Can you talk a little bit about that experience?    Michele Wong McSween: [00:17:38] Oh, that was great. That was the first of its kind and. I led the entire author segment of it. I would say individual authors. There were, there were, publishing companies that brought in their own authors, but I was responsible for bringing in the independent authors. And so I think we had about eight of us. There were Indian, Korean, Chinese, Taiwanese, and we all came together for this one really special day of celebrating our voices and lifting each other up. And there was so much energy and so much positivity in that event, and I. Actually was just thinking about reaching out to the organizers last year and seeing if we could maybe do, part two? So, I'm glad you brought that up. It was a really positive experience.    Miko Lee: [00:18:27] So we're celebrating the end of Asian American Pacific Islander Native Hawaiian month. Can you tell us why this month is important to you?    Michele Wong McSween: [00:18:36] When you have something designated and set aside as, this is the month that we're going to be celebrating Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander heritage all month long, I think it kind of perks up. People's ears and they think, oh wow, this is a great opportunity for me to see what's happening in my community. I think it just brings the awareness to. The broader community and ultimately the world. And I think when we learn about each other and each other's cultures, it brings us closer together and makes us realize that we're really not that different from each other. And I think when there are so many events happening now it peaks the interest of people in the neighborhood that might otherwise not know about it and it can, really bring us closer together as a community.   Miko Lee: [00:19:27] Michelle Wong McSween, thank you so much for joining me on Apex Express. It's great to hear more about you and about your latest book Gordon & Li Li and the entire series. Thank you so much.    Michele Wong McSween: [00:19:39] Thank you, Miko   Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:19:40] Thank you all so much for joining us. I'm here with Gloria l Huang, author of Kaya of the Ocean. Thank you so much for joining us, Gloria.    Gloria Huang: [00:19:48] Oh, thanks so much for having me here.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:19:50] So first off, one question that we're asking all of our guests on our show tonight is, who are your people? However you identify, you know, your community, your ancestors, and what legacy do you carry with you?    Gloria Huang: [00:20:01] Oh, that's such a good question. So I am my heritage is Chinese. My parents were born in China and then grew up in Taiwan. And I myself was actually born in Canada. But then moved the states pretty young and and American Canadian dual citizen and now, but I, my heritage plays a lot into my. Kind of my worldview. It really shaped, how I grew up and how I saw things. And so it features very prominently in my writing and in my stories as you could probably tell from Kaya the ocean.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:20:34] Yes. And I love the book so much. It was such a    Gloria Huang: [00:20:37] thank you,    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:20:38] amazing read. And I'm also half Chinese and love the ocean. Just love the beach so much and have always felt such a connection with the water. I don't wanna give away too much things about the book, but I was wondering if you could talk about your inspiration for writing it and a little bit about, setting and everything.   Gloria Huang: [00:20:56] Of course. So the inspiration for the book actually started I came up with the idea when the world was first emerging from the pandemic and I was seeing a lot of people obviously experiencing a lot of anxiety, but a lot of children very close to me in my life. And they were experiencing it for the first time, which was can be so difficult. I remember when it happened to me and there's just this tendency to. Worry that there's something wrong with you or that you've done something and you feel so alone. And so I remember standing by the ocean one night actually and thinking that I'd really love to write a book about a girl who is struggling with. The anxiety just to be able to send a message to all these kids that there's nothing wrong with them. They're not alone and really all parts of who they are. Even the parts they might not love so much are important parts of these amazing, beautiful, complicated people. They are. So that was the inspiration for that part of the story, the setting. I was very inspired. As you mentioned, the ocean is a huge inspiration to me. It actually comes into my mind, a lot of my stories and someone pointed that out once and I was like, you're right, it does. And I think part of it is that I love the ocean. I love the beach. I love being there, but I'm also so in awe of this powerful thing that, you know, where we know so little about it. It is. There's so much mystery to it. It can look so beautiful on the surface and be so dangerous underneath. I love it as a metaphor. I love it as a part of nature. So I think that was a huge part of why I wanted to incorporate that, especially because I think it also plays well into the metaphor for how some people experience anxiety and you can be calm on the surface, but so much is happening underneath.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:22:29] Absolutely. Yeah. Those interplay with each other and are metaphors for each other in such a beautiful way, mirror the experience. Yeah. I wanted to talk a little bit more about anxiety and particular, as a young Asian American girl the cultural specificity of having anxiety as a young Asian American woman.    Gloria Huang: [00:22:46] Yes I definitely think it's no coincidence. I think that anxiety often goes hand in hand with perfectionism and pressure and I, many people feel that kind of pressure, but certainly a young Asian girl especially with immigrant parents, will feel specific kind of pressure. And so I was really trying to portray that, Somebody once said to me, they were like, oh, I really like how Kaya on the surface seems so put together. She's, got really good grades. She works really hard at school. She's close to her parents, but there's all this going on underneath. And I actually think that's not unusual in terms of that experience for Asian American children of immigrants, and especially if you're female I was really trying to. Tease that out. And then in addition I think there's a tendency, and this might exist in other cultures as well, but in Asian culture, at least in my family history there's a tendency not to really want to talk about mental health. There was a, there's a joke in my family that my parents thought anything could be solved with good sleep and good nutrition, like anytime you had any problem. And I think that there is a, there's a. resistance to feeling like your child can be struggling in a way you can't help them. So I, really wanted to touch on that, part of the cultural pressures at play in kaya's life.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:23:59] And you did so beautifully and it was very relatable, as a anxious Asian girly. And also just, the discussion of big feelings and somehow, having inklings that you may be more powerful than you even realize, but the kind of like emotions that come with that too.    Gloria Huang: [00:24:15] Yes. I think that's a huge part of it is that like when you experience these huge feelings they feel powerful, know, in a negative way. But what I was really trying to get at was, there is also power in accepting these parts of yourself and realizing that They can make up this powerful being that you are, even if you might not love them in that moment.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:24:34] Yeah. I felt very seen by the book and I, couldn't help but wonder wow, what would it have been like if I had read this when I was, 13 or 12 or kind of Closer to the age of the characters in the book.   Gloria Huang: [00:24:45] Thank you so much for saying that it actually means a lot because a lot of my motivation when I do write these books is to write for people who are either of that age or, wish they had a book like that at that age, which is also how I feel a lot about books nowadays and oh, I, I'm so glad that exists. I wish that had been around when I was that age.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:25:03] Yes. Were there any books that really set an example for you that either you read, maybe when you were, in the young adult. Age range or that you've read now as an adult where you're like, okay, this is definitely the audience that I wanna be writing for.   Gloria Huang: [00:25:17] Definitely. I actually love this question 'cause I'm a big reader and so I love talking about books . When I was a kid, middle grade books were my gateway into my love of reading. So I still remember a lot of my favorite books, but I would say a recent book, it's actually maybe not that recent now, it's maybe a couple years old, but a book that really. Had an effect on the middle grade book was when you trap a tiger by Tae Keller and it explores. The kind of Korean experience, but also through the prism of kind of understanding generational grief. And it was just so beautifully done and really made an impact on me. So that was one recently that I thought was really powerful. And, I was like, this is an important book. This is definitely a book I would've loved as a child. When I was younger and I was reading books, there were three books that meant a lot to me. One was called the true confessions of Charlotte Doyle, and it was like a swashbuckling adventure story starring a girl, which was, at that time not very common. And it was, it meant, it was so earth shattering to me to be able to see a female character in that role. So that was great. There's a book called. Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt. And it's an adventure story and it also stars. The main character is a very strong female character and Tuck everlasting, which I just think is a beautiful book. It's also female characters. Now I'm saying it out loud. They are all female main characters. And all about, existentialism and adventure and things that, it was important for me to see. Female characters exploring. But I did also wanna say that when I was reading middle grade books, some of my favorite books included a series called, babysitters Club, which I think that they've redone now as a graphic novel. And that was actually really important, not necessarily for the stories, but because there's a character named Claudia Kishi who. Was a Japanese American character and she absolutely shattered the minds of, I think all kids that age were Asian descent and female in reading these books because there just wasn't a character like her before that, she was so cool and artistic but she had immigrant parents and she had a sister who was very good at math and they didn't get along and she loved junk food and she was. So incredibly nuanced and it was just not something that we saw back then. So that really inspired me, I think, to want to add to the diversity of voices. And thankfully there are many more diverse voices now than when I was reading.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:27:30] I love that. And I also feel like books that you read at that age, they stay with you forever.   Gloria Huang: [00:27:35] They really do.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:27:35] And they shape so much of like your worldview and your friendships. And I'm curious, 'cause I know the book was released this year in January. Mm-hmm. So what has it been like for you on your book tour and what's been some other responses that you've heard? I.    Gloria Huang: [00:27:48] It's been really great. It was so exciting to do the book launch and then just the amount of support from the writing community from, my, my kind of network, my agents and my publisher and editor. And also just readers. It's been really great. But one thing I think I wasn't expecting to love quite so much, not because I was expecting to not love it. I just said, it occurred to me that I would feel this way is getting feedback from, child readers is amazing because, I think as writers we love feedback no matter what. And if it's positive feedback, that's even better. But having a child reach out and as some of my friends will send a video of their. Children reacting to the book or they'll, their, let their child type out a text messages and just to hear how the book hits with them and to hear their excitement or to hear that they were moved or to have them want to know what happens next. It meant so much to me because it was, they're the target audience and to have them feel seen in that way was just, it's just the ultimate kind of powerful feeling.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:28:51] That is so sweet. Oh my gosh. I can only imagine. And so you're talking about the young readers. Yes. But I'm also curious if you have any advice or thoughts for young writers who might be wanting to share and get similar stories out to the world?   Gloria Huang: [00:29:05] Yeah I definitely do. And one of the. Experiences I've had that's been great is I've been doing, some school visits and I go and I talk about the book, but I actually talk about the writing process. And when I do that, I really talk to the kids. As if they're writers. The one of the first questions I ask is, hold up your hand. If you love writing or you think you want me, you might wanna be a writer someday. And a lot of hands go up and I tell them like, what the publishing process is, what are, the different genre options, what you might wanna consider, how you come up with an idea, how you sit down and write it, how you reach out to an agent. And I am surprised at how. Intensely, they're hanging onto every word and they're insightful questions after it. It shows me that a lot of them are really thinking about this. I think for one of the school visits, I remember someone held up her hand and she said what is the youngest age I. Someone has been able to be published. And I thought that was great. Because they're so inspired and you can tell that, that they're thinking for the first time this is a possibility. I have all kinds of advice during the school visits, the main piece of advice is really. Just that it can be a tough industry. writing is a very isolated process usually. There's a lot of kind of obstacles and there's a lot of gatekeeping. And so I tell 'em that the most important thing they can do is just keep pushing through and not to let any, setbacks stop them, because the ultimate goal is to reach even just one person.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:30:24] Absolutely. And what kind of advice do you give around learning how to hone your own voice and also having discipline when it comes to an artistic practice?   Gloria Huang: [00:30:33] Yeah, I think that's such a great question. And I was gonna say this piece of advice is probably more for I. Older writers, but adult writers, I guess I should say. The one thing that I've really been thinking about having published a middle grade book is the very specific and unique experience of writing for middle grade audiences. I think a lot of my friends who write for older audience groups, young adults, adults, They have their own challenges, but one of the things that is different is when they're writing, they are writing for the same target audience. That's also the decision makers. So generally, adults and young adults are picking their own books, and they're speaking to someone who will. Ultimately be the ones to pick up the books where when you're writing for middle grade audiences they're not usually the decision makers. at bookstores, they may or may not be in charge of which book they buy, in. Schools, usually it's a librarian or a teacher. So in some ways you're writing for one audience, but you're also writing a subject matter that you're hoping the decision makers will decide is worthy to put in front of your ultimate readers. So that's one challenge. And then the other challenge is I think middle grade audiences are so. fascinating because they're going through this amazingly unusual time in their lives, whether it's eventful and there's new experiences and that can be exciting, but also scary. So there's a lot to mind in terms of topics, but they are also a mixture of being very sophisticated readers who are on the cusp of being teens. And so there's a healthy dose of, skepticism, but they're still young enough that they. Believe in magic, at least in the literary world. So you, there's a lot of room to play with that. But they also. They sound different. They speak differently than adults. So it's important to get the dialogue, for me I, turn to children in my life, including my own, just to do a check to make sure that the dialogue sounds authentic and something that, people, that kids would say. So a lot of thoughts there, but I think, I've been thinking a lot about middle grade and writing for middle grade, and what a unique experience it is.   Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:32:26] Yeah, that's such a good point about the decision maker and having the multiple audiences, and I'm sure sometimes the decision makers are reading the books too, right? Or reading it with their kids or what have you. For your personal writing practice, are there any upcoming projects that you can share with us? And how do you stay inspired for what I imagine is like the long haul of writing something.    Gloria Huang: [00:32:45] I'm happiest when I have like several projects in the pipeline. So as soon as I am done a book or it's, outta my hands, it's with my agents or my editors. I'm looking to write another book. And I think sometimes I probably overwhelm my amazing book before agents. 'cause I'm like, I'm ready to start another story. And they're like, we're still looking at the book you just sent us. But I, that's very much how. I am happiest. I would definitely say that everybody finds their own rhythm. I'm in some writers groups and some people are incredibly fast drafters and just need multiple projects at a time. And some people are like, no, I need to work on one project and I need to have it to perfection and I'm gonna work on it for a year or two. And I think whatever works for the individual artist, I think is the best kind of process for them. But yes, for me it's very much about having multiple projects. I think I'm most inspired when I have different projects going at the same time. finding your own rhythm, I think is my advice.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:33:40] kaya of the ocean has, strong themes and storylines about, myths, mythology, Chinese mythology, and goddesses. I'm curious if you wanna talk any more about that and then also if that shows up in any of the other projects you're working on    Gloria Huang: [00:33:54] Yes, the Chinese mythological water goddess that features. Pretty prominently in Kaya of the Ocean is Matsu. And I find her to be such a fascinating character. She is a real goddess who's worshiped still in Asia. I think. Fishermen often will, pray to her for safe passage when they go out on the water. And my father told me about her when I was younger he told me like the side stories and I thought that was really interesting. But it was only when I started thinking about this book that I thought, I'd love to, I'd love to incorporate her. I hadn't heard about her too much in, in the fictional world, even though I knew she was still like a revered goddess. But I thought it was so cool that she was this strong. I. Strong female figure in a space that didn't always have that, hundreds of years ago. And so I dove into her story a little bit and found out, the story is that she was once a human child who loved to read and then she was afraid of swimming in water until she was older and then she drowned, saving, trying to save some relatives and it was interesting 'cause I'd already started plotting out Kaya and writing Kaya. And so much of her story wove easily into what I had already come up with. Like there, I think she has two sidekicks that were one time enemies that she, made into her friends and I'd already had Kaya written with two friends, Naomi and Ana. So I, there was just so much that I felt was kismet. And it was really fun to be able to weave that story together and fictionalize it. But I think it was also meaningful for me to be able to do that because. When I was younger, I loved reading Greek mythology. the stories are beautiful and they've been redone in beautiful ways, but it definitely was an area where I didn't necessarily see myself reflected. As part of my goal to add to the diversity of voices, I really wanted to feature Chinese mythology and bring those stories in so that. Kids can either see themselves reflected in those stories and or understand a new kind of set of mythology and learn about a new culture.   Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:35:46] Yes. I'm so glad you put it that way because it is, it's such a privilege to have access to, our own I. Cultural stories and knowledge through these, like fun and modern interpretations. Definitely. So I'm so glad that this can provide that.    Gloria Huang: [00:36:00] Oh, thank you. I did realize I didn't answer your other question, which is does it feature my other works? Which so I have sold another middle grade novel and I'm, it's not announced yet. I'm hoping to announce it soon. And I have some other. Books. I'm working on a young adult novel so far. They have not featured Chinese mythology, but I do definitely have a type that my most of my books tend to be contemporary settings, but with elements of speculative. Fantasy, just like the light touch of that and sometimes a little bit of historical elements as well. So they, they definitely all have that similar motif, but so far chi of the ocean is the only one to feature a Chinese mythological goddess.   Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:36:43] Thank you so much for sharing that. I love that. And I really love the relationship that Kaya had with her two friends and just and then also like the cousin that comes and just capturing like the banter amongst, amongst the girls.    Gloria Huang: [00:36:56] Thank you so much. that was really important to me, I think because at the stage that Kaia is in her life the loves of her life really are her two friends, Naomi and Ana, and they feature very prominently in how she learns to cope with her anxiety and her symptoms of anxiety. And so I really, I think that I really wanted to center her their friendship as much as possible. So I'm I'm glad that you saw it that way too.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:37:19] Yeah. And I feel like, I mean, it truly is the most important relationship. And so it's nice when works of fiction and yeah, works of fiction, can reflect that in such a beautiful way. I know you mentioned that you have daughters or have children?    Gloria Huang: [00:37:32] I do, yes. I have a son and a daughter. And my daughter actually was quite involved because when I first started writing Kaya, I think she was exactly of the age that she would be the target reader group. And so she actually helped Beta read it. She provided a lot of feedback. She became like a cheerleader. She was definitely involved in the process and I think that was really exciting for her. my son became of the reading age once it came out, so he reads it and he's a big fan too,   Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:38:00] that's so sweet. I love that your daughter was part of the editing process too. That's amazing.    Gloria Huang: [00:38:04] Yeah. Yeah. She loves writing and always says she wants to be a writer herself, so it was really special that she got to be part of this and see it up close.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:38:13] Oh wow. Do you think you would do any collaborative projects with her in the future?   Gloria Huang: [00:38:16] It's so funny that you say that. She always suggests that. And then sometimes they'll actually start a Google doc and they'll say, let's write a story together. And we all have, of course, very different writing styles. And then at some point they both actually usually just start reading what I'm writing. And at that point I'm like, this is not collaborative. You have to write as well. So we've had a couple of false starts, but that's always a joke that we're gonna do that together.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:38:39] that's so sweet. What else is upcoming for you? I know this is, Asian American and native Hawaiian Pacific Islander month right now, and the episode will come out towards the end of May. So if there's anything else coming up from you for this month or for June or the summer. Yeah. We'd love to hear what you have going on.    Gloria Huang: [00:38:57] Oh, yeah. Today actually Kaya's audio book was released people can listen to it. It was narrated by this amazing, narrator, Cindy K. And so anywhere you find audio books is available. And that was really cool. I've listened to a little bit of it and you, when you write, you hear the words in your head one way, and then it's amazing to hear like another artist do their take on it. So that's really cool. I will be at the Bay Area book Festival at the end of the month of May. There. Doing like different panels and I'll be on a panel. it's about Fantastical Worlds. I'm really excited about that. hopefully we'll be able to announce this other book soon. As you, you may know publishing is a very long lead time it will be a while before it's released, but I think the hope is to release it during, a API month as well just not this year. And working on a young adult novel that hopefully we can go on submission with at some point. But it's an exciting time for sure.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:39:51] Wow, that does sound so exciting. I can't wait to hear about your new projects and to continue to read the work that you put out into the world. Is there anything else that you'd like to discuss or talk about?   Gloria Huang: [00:40:01] I think just to say a thank you to you for, having me on here and reading Kaya of the Ocean and really anyone who's been interested in joining Kaya and her friends on their journey. It's just, it's so amazing, I think, to create these characters that become real to you, and then have them become real to other people. I don't have the words to describe how meaningful it is to me, but thank you.    Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:40:24] Thank you for letting us join into the world of Kaya for a little bit 'cause it was very fun and healing and all of the amazing things. And thanks so much for joining us today on Apex Express.    Gloria Huang: [00:40:36] For sure. Thanks so much.   Miko Lee: [00:40:38] Welcome, Andrea Wang, award-winning children's book author to Apex Express.    Andrea Wang: [00:40:43] Thank you, Miko. I'm so happy to be here.    Miko Lee: [00:40:46] Happy to have you. I'd love to start first with a personal question, which is, who are your people and what legacy do you carry with you?   Andrea Wang: [00:40:57] My people are from China. My mother's family belonged to an ethnic minority, called the Haka or the Kaja people, and she and her siblings were. A military family, and we're each born in a different province. And when the Chinese Civil War ended in 1949, they went to Taiwan where she grew up and immigrated to the United States in 1965 or 1966. My father's family are from Guangdong Province, and so I'm Cantonese on that side, although I don't speak any Cantonese. And he went to Hong Kong after the Chinese Civil War. So I am the daughter of Chinese immigrants, second generation Chinese American.    Miko Lee: [00:42:01] And what legacy do you carry with you?   Andrea Wang:[00:42:03]  I carry the legacy of their stories, both the ones that I know and the ones that I don't know yet.    Miko Lee: [00:42:12] Ooh. It sounds like there's lots of juicy things for you still to discover. That is fun.    Andrea Wang: [00:42:16] Yes.    Miko Lee: [00:42:17] Today we're talking about your new book, watercress, can you share what the audience, what the book is about, and then what is your inspiration for this book?    Andrea Wang: [00:42:25] So the book is about a Chinese American girl who is growing up in rural Ohio and her parents spot watercress growing in a ditch by the side of the road, and they immediately pull over and make her enter older brother, get out of the car and get down into the ditch with them and collect this. Vegetable, but to her it's a weed. And so when they serve it to her and her family at dinner, she really is unhappy about this and. For her, picking food out of a ditch has a really different meaning than it does to her parents who survived a lot of hardship in China. And it's not until her mom tells her a story about her childhood growing up in China and spoiler alert, loses a sibling to the famine that the girl begins to understand and better appreciate her parents, her culture, and her heritage.   Miko Lee: [00:43:29] And the inspiration for this book.    Andrea Wang: [00:43:32] So the inspiration is largely my own life. this is a semi autobiographical story. The memory of picking watercress by the side of the road was just something that I couldn't forget, I don't know why this memory continued to haunt me into adulthood. And then after my mom passed away, I started writing down, memories and stories of being with my family in order to maintain a connection to her. When I wrote this, at first it was a personal essay and it just wasn't working. I would put it away and I would occasionally take it out and I would put it away and take it out and work on it again. And it wasn't until I decided to pursue writing for young people that I completely changed the manuscript from a personal essay into a picture book. But at that point it still wasn't working. It was in third person and it wasn't very personal It took me several more years to figure out the heart of the story for me. So it was largely based on my own memories and my mother's childhood stories that she shared with me.   Miko Lee: [00:44:39] Can you share more about the power of memory and the artistic process? 'cause you've written many books and in different genres as well, but can you talk a little bit more about memory and its impact on your work?   Andrea Wang: [00:44:52] Yeah, that's a great question. I tend to write primarily for myself. And to figure out how I felt about certain experiences, how they've changed me, to try and process things I feel like I remember a lot about my childhood. parts of it are very vivid and I like to go back to those. Moments that have stuck with me all these years and explore what it means to me. Like I'm just very curious about why I remember certain things watercress was largely my way of processing my childhood feelings of shame about my family and my culture. I have leaned into that and am still writing stories about identity and the struggle to find our identity. Memory has a lot to do with it. I put myself in every single book.    Miko Lee: [00:45:45] Ooh, that's so interesting. And you're talking a little bit about shame and overcoming that. I'm wondering if you could speak more on, if you feel like memories hold the power to heal.    Andrea Wang: [00:45:56] I firmly believe that memories hold the power to heal. I think that writing watercress and talking about these feelings has really helped me, , heal from, that sort of trauma of not feeling like I belonged as a kid and also that I may have been. Not the nicest kid to my parents, not the most filial, right? And so writing this story was, as I say in the author's note, sort of an apology and a love letter to my parents. So it's been very healing and healing to hear about from all the. People who have read the book and had it resonate with them, the things that they regretted in their lives and hoped to, heal as well.    Miko Lee: [00:46:42] Oh, have you heard that story a lot from adult readers?   Andrea Wang: [00:46:46] I have. They will often tell me about the things that their parents did that embarrassed them. A lot of foraging stories, but also stories about, relatives and ancestors who were sharecroppers or indigenous peoples. And it's just been fascinating how many people connect to the story on different levels. There is that theme of poverty. I think recognizing. That's not often talked about in children's books, I think makes people feel very seen.   Miko Lee: [00:47:14] Yeah. That feeling of shame is really showcased by the illustrator Jason Chin. I mean your young you character kind of has a grumpy look on their face. And it was just so fun. Even in the book notes, Jason Chin, the illustrator, writes about how he combined both the western and eastern style of art, but also his similar cross-cultural background. I'm wondering when you very first saw the artwork and this was kind of young you did anything surprise you by it?    Andrea Wang: [00:47:42] I mean, it's amazing, gorgeous artwork and I was really struck by how he dealt with the flashbacks because when I sold this manuscript, I. Had no idea how an illustrator would deal with how interior it is and, , and how they would tackle those flashbacks. And there's one spread where on the left hand side of the page, it shows the main character's current time and then it morphs across the gutter of the book into. The moms past and her childhood memories in China, and it was just exquisite is really the only way to describe it. It was, it's just brilliant, and amazing. We don't, as picture book authors typically get to work with our illustrators. We often do not have contact with them through the making of a picture book. But in this case. Our editors said since it was such a personal story for me, that he, , felt that Jason and I should collaborate. And so I provided photos, family photos, photos of Ohio, lots of different, , source materials to Jason and would talk to him about the feelings that young me in the book went through. And so the fact that, he was able to take all of that and put it on the page, it was just. Spectacular.    Miko Lee: [00:49:01] Oh, that's so fun. I also understand that you love mythical creatures as you I, and one of your children's books is the Nian Monster, which I love. I'm wondering what is your favorite mythical creature and why?   Andrea Wang: [00:49:15] I. Have been sort of fascinated with the qilin, the, or they call it the Chinese unicorn. Right. Although it looks very different from what we think of a, a European unicorn looks like. Yes. And I think it's because they're supposed to be this really benevolent, creature and Have all sorts of powers and I would love to do more research about the qilin and, you know, incorporate that into a book someday.   Miko Lee: [00:49:42] Ooh, fun. Next book. I love it. you have so many books and I'm really curious about your upcoming book Worthy about Joseph Pierce. I love these as Helen Zia talks about these. MIH moments that are missing in history. And Joseph Pierce was the highest ranking Chinese American man who fought in the Civil War. Some people might recognize this picture of this Chinese American guy in a kind of civil war, uniform. Can you tell us one, when is the book being released and a little bit more about it?    Andrea Wang: [00:50:11] Sure. The book is being released on September 9th, 2025, and it is. A picture book, which we typically think of as for younger readers, but it is 64 pages. So you know, it's an all ages picture book. I think my editor and I would like to say, and it is the story of a Chinese boy born in the, First half of the 18 hundreds in China in Guangdong province, and was sold by his father to an American ship captain named Amos Peck. the reasons for that are, lost to time, right? He left no primary sources behind, there was so much going on in China at the time. Famine war, you know, all of these, Difficult things that his father probably sold him in order to keep the rest of the family alive and as well as give him the opportunity to have a better life. And he did end up in Connecticut. He was raised with the captain's, siblings and sent to school and treated almost like a member of the family except for the fact that he was. Clearly Chinese and there were very few Chinese people in, Connecticut at that time. he joined the Union Army when he came of age and was able to leverage his service into gaining citizenship, which really people of color, weren't really able to do successfully back then. And so. He gained a citizenship. He married, he had a family. He was able to own property and accomplish all these amazing things. Sort of right before the Chinese exclusion Act was, enacted. So he was a very brave guy.    Miko Lee: [00:51:45] It's a wild story and you sent me on a little bit of a rabbit hole, which is fun. Just, looking at Ruth Ann, McCune's. historical piece that there were 10 different Chinese American men in the Civil War, but he was exceptional because he rose to such high ranks. And I just think it's so interesting that, in the 1880 census, he registered as Chinese. But then after the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882, he listed his race as Japanese in the 1890 census. but he was racialized as white so that he could buy property and everything. Yeah. Can you just talk a little bit about that, like talk about code switching? He like literally changed his race,    Andrea Wang: [00:52:26] right. And people at that time could not tell the difference. Similar to now, people often can't tell different Asian, ethnicities apart. Right. I found actual newspaper articles where Joseph Pierce was interviewed about the battles, that the United States was having with Japan or the battles that Japan was having. He was asked his opinion on what the Japanese government was doing because he told these reporters he was Japanese and that was really the only clue that I had that he, Was code switching that after the Chinese exclusion Act was passed, he felt like he needed to protect himself and his family and he must have cut off his cue because otherwise, you know, that would've identified him immediately as Chinese. So that went into the book. I think it's a powerful moment, right, where he's doing what he has to do to survive and ensure his protection and his family's safety,   Miko Lee: [00:53:25] You have a, a really interesting background. Just having No really, I mean, having done all these different things and I, you know, I think you have a science background too, right? Can you talk about the times that we're living in right now, the political times that we're living in, where our government is banning books that don't align with certain conservative ideologies, where right now certain words are forbodden suddenly. And can you talk a little bit about how that impacts you as a children's book author?    Andrea Wang: [00:53:59] it is very disheartening and discouraging that the current climate is against, people who look like me or other people of color. And as a children's book author, we are experiencing a huge decrease in the number of teachers and librarians who are asking us to come and visit schools, to talk to students, which is horrible because. These young people are the ones who need to learn from books, right? Knowledge is power. And if we are not keeping them informed, then we are doing them a disservice. I think the attacks on our freedom to read are really unjust. and. personally as an author of color, I understand that books like Worthy may end up on some of these banned book lists because it does talk about racism. but these are the stories that we need now, and I'm going to continue writing these stories about the Hidden History, And to talk about these difficult subjects that I think kids understand on some level. but if they're not reading about it in books, then it's hard to spark a conversation with, educators or adults about it. So I think these books that I'm writing, that many of my friends and other children's book authors are writing are providing that. Sort of gateway to talk about, the topics that are so important right now.    Miko Lee: [00:55:29] Thank you so much for sharing, and thank you so much for being on Apex Express today. We appreciate your voice and the work that you're putting out there in the world. Is there anything else you'd like to say?   Andrea Wang: [00:55:39] you know, there's so much to say, I think just to. Stand up for what we all believe in and to, I encourage people to stand up for their intellectual freedom and that of their children.   Miko Lee: [00:55:56] Thank you, Andrea Wang. I appreciate hearing from you and hearing your voice and seeing your work out there in the world.    Andrea Wang: [00:56:03] Thank you so much, Miko. It was a pleasure.   Miko Lee: [00:56:05] Please check out our website, kpfa.org. To find out more about our show tonight. We thank all of you listeners out there. Keep resisting, keep organizing, keep creating and sharing your visions with the world because your voices are important. Apex Express is created by Miko Lee, Jalena Keane-Lee, Preti Mangala-Shekar, Swati Rayasam, Aisa Villarosa, Estella Owoimaha-Church, Gabriel Tanglao, Cheryl Truong and Ayame Keane-Lee.   The post APEX Express – 5.29.25 AAPI Children's Books appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of the Campus Technology Insider Podcast, Editor in Chief Rhea Kelly presents the keynote speech delivered by David Weil, Vice President and CIO for IT and Analytics at Ithaca College, during the May 2025 Tech Tactics in Education Conference. Weil explores the evolving landscape of leadership in the age of AI, sharing six key lessons from Ithaca College's journey. He discusses the significance of moments in leadership, the importance of play and exploration, the value of questioning, personal connections, setting direction, and maintaining focus on core values. By sharing firsthand experiences and insightful anecdotes, Weil emphasizes that effective leadership, especially in an era driven by AI, remains fundamentally about leading people. 00:00 Introduction to AI and Leadership 00:56 Moments of Leadership 02:34 The AI Revolution: ChatGPT's Impact 03:48 Six Lessons of Leadership in the Age of AI 06:26 Lesson 1: The Power of Play and Exploration 08:25 Lesson 2: The Importance of Questions 17:20 Lesson 3: Creating Opportunities to Connect 19:42 Lesson 4: Setting Direction 23:47 Lesson 5: The Power of Pilots 33:55 Lesson 6: Focusing on Our Why 36:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resource links: Tech Tactics in Education AI at Ithaca College The Weirdness and Brilliance of ChatGPT 7 Questions College Leaders Should Ask About AI Music: Mixkit Duration: 38 minutes Transcript (coming soon)

There are defining moments that split your life into before and after. Moments when everything you thought you knew gets stripped away, leaving only what truly matters. For Dr. David Fajgenbaum, that moment came not once, but five times, each bringing him closer to death and, paradoxically, teaching him how to live.This week's episode explores what happens when the system fails you and you refuse to accept failure. When David was diagnosed with Castleman disease at 25, a rare condition where your immune system turns against your own body, traditional medicine reached its limits. But David didn't. Instead of surrendering, he became both patient and researcher, ultimately discovering the treatment that would save not just his life, but potentially thousands of others.In our conversation, David reveals the mindset shifts that kept him fighting when hope felt impossible, how AI is revolutionizing our approach to drug discovery, and why the cure for your condition might already exist in a pharmacy right now. His story challenges everything we think we know about medicine, healing, and what's possible when you refuse to take no for an answer.What struck me most about our conversation wasn't just David's survival story, but how he turned personal crisis into a mission that's reshaping medicine. His ability to stay curious even when doctors said there was nothing left to try, and his belief that the answers we need might already exist, just waiting to be discovered. David showed me that breakthrough thinking isn't always about creating something new, but seeing what's already there differently.About Dr. David Fajgenbaum:Dr. David Fajgenbaum is a physician-scientist, bestselling author of Chasing My Cure, and co-founder of Every Cure, a nonprofit on a mission to unlock the full potential of every approved drug to treat every disease it possibly can. Recently named to TIME's 100 Health list for 2025, he's revolutionising medical research by repurposing existing drugs to treat rare diseases. His TED Talk has inspired millions, and his nonprofit work continues to unlock life-saving treatments hidden in plain sight.Connect with Dr. David Fajgenbaum:Website: https://everycure.orgInstagram: @dfajgenbaumFacebook: David FajgenbaumTwitter: @DavidFajgenbaumBook: Chasing My Cure – Available on AmazonLove,Sarah Ann

Recorded earlier on Monday, Jimbo assembles Julien Laurens, Pol Ballús, Seb Stafford-Bloor and James Horncastle as the Euro gang sign off for the summer in style. There's only one place to start - and the dramatic events on Friday night in Serie A as Scott McTominay and Romelu Lukaku were on the scoresheet as Napoli tasted Scudetto glory amid jubilant scenes inside the Maradona and on the streets of Naples. Inter will be hoping to put the disappointment of missing out on the title behind them as they prepare to face PSG in Saturday's Champions League final. The French champions warmed up for the occasion by cruising to a 3-0 victory over Reims in the Coupe de France. So - who'll come out on top in Munich?The curtain closed on the La Liga season this weekend with emotional goodbyes for Carlo Ancelotti & Luka Modrić as their time at Real Madrid came to an end with a 2-0 win over Real Sociedad. Barcelona wrapped up their domestic treble-winning season with a comfortable victory at Athletic Bilbao - while Real Betis prepare for Wednesday's Conference League final against Chelsea… And over in Germany, the Pokal fairytale wasn't to be for Arminia Bielefeld as Stuttgart ended their 18-year wait for a trophy with a 4-2 victory over their third-division opponents. Plus, the big news out of Leverkusen is that Erik ten Hag is back! Produced by Lucy Oliva.RUNNING ORDER: • PART 1: Moments of the weekend (00.50)• PART 2: Serie A review - MVP McTominay guides Napoli to glory (08.30)• PART 3: Coupe de France review - and Champions League final preview (23.45)• PART 4: La Liga review - Emotional farewells to Don Carlo & Luka Modrić & Conference League final preview (34.30)• PART 5: DFB-Pokal review - and ten Hag's in at Leverkusen! (49.05) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What can a retired police officer teach us about healing a city, and ourselves through compassion? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Leatrice Woody on her work and new book Not Without Love: 7 Tasks To Check Off. Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate! Leatrice Woody is a retired Chicago police officer with over 21 years of service, now devoted to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve. A lifelong Chicagoan and entrepreneur since age nine, she has launched multiple ventures—including three salons, real estate projects, and the patented Buff & Go portable nail salon, now sold globally. With a bachelor's in business and communication, she is a certified life and business coach with Blue Heart Coaching, empowering others to succeed personally and professionally. Her four-time bestselling book, Not Without Love: 7 Tasks to Check-Off, offers practical tools for personal growth and trust-building in law enforcement, informed by her own experiences with trauma, healing, and community transformation. https://www.nwlfoundation.org/ For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Moments after Jacob secures the blessing, Esau returns to discover the irreversible loss. Isaac trembles, Esau weeps, and the bitter consequences of deception shake the household. Rebekah fears for Jacob's life and sends him away to protect him from Esau's vengeance. Despite the heartache and broken trust, God remains at work, guiding His covenant plan through the fallout.  The Rev. Ryan Fehrmann, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church and School in Bonduel, WI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 27:30–46.  To learn more about St. Paul, visit www.stpaulbonduel.com. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

If you drink 0.0 beer, you're not broken — and you haven't failed.In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I speak from experience about the nuance of sobriety — including why I used 0.0 beer early in my recovery, why I've moved away from it, and why I still don't believe it's a relapse.Recovery is personal. It's not a template. And if you've ever felt judged for how you stay sober — this one's for you.

Jimbo's got the whole gang together as Julien Laurens, James Horncastle, Seb Stafford-Bloor and Pol Ballús indulge in some European chit-chat as the season reaches its climax. The Serie A chaos continued with the title set to be decided on Friday night… unless a play-off is required! That's after Inter were held 2-2 by Lazio while Napoli were goalless at Parma, but it's Antonio Conte's side who still sit a point clear at the top of the table. The Eredivisie set a high bar for mayhem as PSV retained their title on the final day - despite trailing Ajax by 9 points with just 5 games to go! Michiel Jongsma's back to tell us how - and why Ajax's next boss should probably be bald… Over in Ligue 1, Alexandre Lacazette signed off in style with goals 200 and 201 for his hometown club Lyon - while there was extraordinary late drama in Strasbourg as Abdoulaye Touré's 99th minute panenka kept Le Havre in the top flight. Barcelona were still on the beers as they were beaten 3-2 by Villarreal, but it didn't matter after more Lamine Yamal magic had sealed the La Liga title against Espanyol in midweek. Meanwhile, the rebuild's already started at Real Madrid with Dean Huijsen signed and the announcement of new manager Xavi Alonso seemingly imminent… And in the Bundesliga, Dortmund completed their remarkable turnaround under Niko Kovac to seal a Champions League spot - while champions Bayern Munich finished the season 13 points clear of Leverkusen as Harry Kane made it back-to-back Golden Boots. Plus - what's the mood across Europe as the Premier League's 16th and 17th-placed banter clubs do battle in Bilbao in Wednesday night's Europa League final? Produced by Lucy Oliva.RUNNING ORDER: • PART 1: Moments of the weekend & Europa League final preview (00.45) • PART 2: Serie A review - All to play for under the Friday Night Lights (11.25)• PART 3: Portugal, Turkey, Ajax's epic collapse - and bald men (24.35)• PART 4: Ligue 1 review - Touré's panenka, Nice's UCL spot & Jonathan David's future (38.40)• PART 5: La Liga review - Barca on the beach as relegation jeopardy remains (48.35)• PART 6: Bundesliga review - Dortmund surge to 4th as Kane picks up latest accolade (55.15) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.