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October 29th: Anita Taylor Pronounced Dead (1966) Cold cases need, more than anything, someone willing to fight to keep them alive and active. On October 29th 1966 a woman was pronounced dead upon arrival at the local hospital. A woman whose case is being kept active by a loved one even almost 60 years after it took place. https://www.taylorcase.com/, https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Files/Law-Enforcement/Investigator/Cold-Case/Homicides/Taylor-(6), https://www.cincinnati.com/story/accused/2020/06/17/backstory-anita-taylors-son-still-searches-his-mothers-killer/3202763001/, https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/news/ohio-cold-case-unit-looking-into-1966-unsolved-homicide-of-springfield-woman/BIMALLWN5VEALHJMFSQRDLWJKI/, https://www.journal-news.com/news/son-continues-pursuit-of-mothers-1966-unsolved-homicide-now-with-state-help/AUV45XYODJGC3I6Y7QBRWYQJS4/, https://ohiomysteries.com/ohio%20mysteries/1966-who-killed-anita-taylor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Endings are hard. The ending of a roleplaying game isn't just the culmination of the story; it's also when the themes and purpose of the game become clear. In this episode we talk about designing a conclusion that comes at the right time, conveys the right message, and still leaves room for all the improvisation of roleplaying. Episode mentions: Ready Player One—but just a brief mention this time, promise! Mother! (2017 film written & directed by Darren Aronofsky) Other Design Doc episodes mentioned: Epilogues in Games (May 2025) Finding the Game's Emotional Core (March 2019) Links: Join the Turtlebun Discord: https://discord.gg/XD4WVDjvbz Support our work on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/turtlebun Buy our games: https://turtlebun.com/ Credits: Design Doc intro/outro theme by ipaghost: https://www.ipaghost.com/ Episode edited by Rob Abrazado: https://robabrazado.com/ Get in touch: Designdocpod (at) gmail (dot) com Instagram: instagram.com/turtleandbun Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/turtlebun.com
Pittsburgh's Feely Murder MysteryJump To AD-FREE Safe House EditionYou'll need your thinking cap for Episode 129, about as cold a case as you can get. It's about eighty years old, but even police officials at the time could not agree on what happened in the back room of that tiny home, whether it was a murder or a murder/suicide. I'm not going to say we can solve it from a few newspaper clippings, but there does seem to be something amiss.Hear more stories about murders of the INNOCENTS.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crime-historian--2909311/support.CLICK HERE to reserve your bunk at The Safe House, where the past is present and the rent is just a buck a week but gives you access to ad-free editions of over 400 episodes in the dusty vault, early access to all new episodes, exclusive content, access to the big boss, and whatever personal services you require.
One mother's plea and a judge's blueprint collide with a terrifying truth: the systems meant to protect people with serious mental illness—and the communities around them—often wait until harm is done. We bring Beverly Gille and Judge Milton L. Mack Jr. together to map how a 28-year struggle, from teen psychosis to homelessness and a mass stabbing in a Traverse City Walmart, reveals the exact points where policy, privacy, and practice failed.We walk through the pivotal transitions that matter most: when minors become adults and families lose access, when court orders lapse because of rigid renewal windows, and when police lack clear authority to transport someone to a crisis center before danger peaks. Judge Mack explains the shift toward assisted outpatient treatment, why recognizing lack of insight saves lives, and how proposed Michigan bills would empower families to file petitions, broaden who can testify, and end the “seven-day trap” that breaks continuity of care.Beverly's story grounds the policy in lived experience—adult foster care that worked until it didn't, ACT teams with uneven follow-through, and a release to the streets where legal access to potent cannabis accelerated psychosis. We connect outcomes to dollars and dignity: assisted outpatient treatment reduces hospitalizations, arrests, homelessness, and drug use, delivering better recovery and safer communities without demanding new budget lines. Most of all, we challenge a false choice: untreated illness is not liberty; treatment restores agency, safety, and community trust.If this conversation resonates, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe for more evidence-based, people-first conversations, and leave a review so others can find the show. Your voice helps push these reforms over the line.Support the showEngage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!
DAY 41: The Coming of the Son of Man Welcome to the Gospel in a Year on the Catholic Sprouts Podcast. In this episode we are reading Matthew 24:1-31 To get the most out of this journey through the Gospels, we suggest you PRINT THE GOSPEL IN A YEAR NOTEBOOK. It's free and ready for you right here: http://catholicsprouts.com/the-gospels-in-a-year-on-the-catholic-sprouts-podcast Thank you for joining us! Come Lord Jesus!
The Ken Burns documentary series The American Revolution will premiere on PBS on November 16, 2025.This six-part, 12-hour series will explore the war for American independence from the perspectives of various individuals, including political leaders, soldiers, civilians, Native Americans, and enslaved people.These red carpet interviews were conducted by Annika Horne.Interviews include:Emmy-winning Actor John Lithgow (Conclave, Interstellar, Bombshell, 3rd Rock from the Sun, Dexter, The Crown)Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns (The Dust Bowl, The Central Park Five, Benjamin Franklin, The Civil War)Academy Award nominated actor Lucas Hedges (Manchester by the Sea, Ben is Back, Boy Erased, Mid90s, Lady Bird)Award-winning Actor Wendell Pierce (The Wire, Treme, Suits, Selma, Horrible Bosses, Elsbeth)Actress Carolyn McCormick (Law & Order, Candlewood, Mapplethorpe)Ken Burns WebsitePBS: American RevolutionHost:Instagram:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMillerTwitter:@MentorsontheMic@MichelleSimoneMFacebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemicWebsite: www.michellesimonemiller.com and www.mentorsonthemic.comYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelleIf you like this episode, check out:TRIBECA: Tim Blake Nelson, Andrew Liner and Vincent Grashaw for "BANG BANG"Tribeca: Live on the Red Carpet with the Showrunner, Director, and Actor of "Mother, May I Have a Kidney"
Fellow writer and mother of adult children, Michele Morin, talks about modeling who God is for our children as our greatest legacy. Mother of four grown boys-now-men with families of their own, I love how Michele trusts God for each new season of her life, even a season with a chronic illness included. You will be blessed with tons of practical wisdom today as we talk about how we deal with unanswered prayers and questions and try not to catastrophize every little thought that comes into our brains. Some gems from our convo: We make the mistake of defining God's goodness by how he answers our prayers—or not. I used to have to "send myself to my room" for a time-out so I could do some much-needed attitude adjustment. I had to learn that making a good life for a family I loved was exactly where and what God wanted me to do and be. Never forget that we are modeling for our kids what God is like. Only a free person has the privilege of rest. Chronic disease helps me stay present to today's work rather than projecting and catastrophizing what may lay ahead. We tend to put our hope in our prayers instead of God himself which can make what we pray for an idol. To lean into God's goodness on a daily basis helps to keep our walk with God fresh and not rote. Michele is the author of over 8 YouVersion Bible Reading devotionals which you can find HERE. She's a regular contributor at DesiringGod.com. Because “the way we live our days will be, after all, the way we live our lives,” you are invited to peruse Michele's writing on her website here at your leisure. michelemorin.net Michele Morin is a reader, writer, speaker, and gardener who does life with her family on a country hill in Maine. She has been married to an unreasonably patient husband for thirty years, and together they have four sons, four daughters-in-love, and five adorable grandchildren. Active in educational ministries with her local church, Michele delights in sitting at a table surrounded by women with open Bibles. She loves hot tea and well-crafted sentences, poems that stop her in her tracks, and days at the ocean with the whole family. She laments biblical illiteracy and advocates for the prudent use of “little minutes.”
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Tragedy hit a California family when their 4-year-old son, Ayden Fang, was hit by a car and died. AND One expectant Tennessee mom did the unthinkable when she was caught in a deadly house fire. To see videos and photos referenced in this episode, visit GodUpdates! https://www.godtube.com/blog/sharing-sons-last-message.html https://www.godtube.com/blog/mother-jumps-out-of-window-to-escape-fire.html Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
When Kathy Chester lost her eyesight in one eye on Mother's Day over twenty years ago, she had no idea this would be the beginning of her journey with multiple sclerosis. As a former gym owner and lifelong athlete, her first instinct was to "run it out"—pushing her body harder in hopes of defeating the disease through sheer determination. Today, that fighting spirit has evolved into something far more powerful.Kathy joins us to share her transformation from newly diagnosed patient to empowered advocate as the host of the MS Disrupted podcast and coach for people living with chronic illnesses. Her philosophy challenges conventional thinking: instead of focusing on limitations, she asks "what am I willing to lose?"—a question that sparked her movement-focused approach to managing MS and rheumatoid arthritis.The conversation delves into the complex emotional landscape of chronic illness, particularly the anxiety that often accompanies diagnosis and progression. All three speakers acknowledge the struggle to extend grace to themselves despite readily offering it to others. Kathy emphasizes the importance of connecting with people who truly understand this unique anxiety, noting that support from those with similar experiences provides validation that well-meaning but uninformed supporters cannot.From practical advice about distinguishing between normal exercise soreness and disease symptoms to red flags when evaluating potential partnerships with health companies, Kathy offers invaluable insights gained through both personal experience and professional expertise. Her expanded support group acknowledges that autoimmune conditions often appear in clusters, creating spaces where people with multiple diagnoses can find comprehensive understanding.Whether you're living with chronic illness, supporting someone who does, or simply interested in transforming how we approach health challenges, Kathy's disrupting philosophy offers a refreshing perspective. Connect with her through Instagram @msdisrupted or email msdisrupted@gmail.com to learn about her one-on-one coaching opportunities and upcoming group sessions.Send us a text Delivering Happy Mail around the world!We have sent thousands of cards to isolated illness warriors, facilitated hundreds of pen pal relationships, and reached countless family members, caregivers, and medical professionals with messages of hope and acknowledgment.Join our mission to send 100,000 cards of support to patients with long-term illnesses.About our organization | Cards2warriors Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice Keep your spoons close and support system closer.Support the showSupport:https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSistershttps://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10) Website: https://myspooniesisters.com/ Discount Codes: GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off
In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus praises the humility of the tax collector — a lesson Fr. John Hollowell connects beautifully to our experience at every Mass. Through gratitude, silence, and humility, we learn what it means to come before God with open hearts.
She's known as the Mother of the Civil Rights Movement. Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in 1955 sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which lasted over a year and inspired other nonviolent resistance. Her name – along with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – is the most recognizable of the civil rights icons. Yet, on this 20th anniversary of her death, there are efforts to sanitize her life story and erase her legacy from public archives, schoolbooks and libraries. Two historians join us to set the record straight.
Spooky season continues with Monther! (2017). Yet again, went a little long with the 14 different interpretations of the movie. Enjoy!
“When doctors said ‘never,' one mother proved them wrong. Hear how Jane Fischer's daughter Suzy defied all odds.In this heartfelt interview, Betsy Wurzel talks with Jane Fischer, author of If You Knew Suzy: Pushing Past the Boundaries of Never with Carol Ann Ross. Jane shares her journey as the mother of Suzy, who was born with severe brain abnormalities. Doctors said Suzy would never walk, talk, or live independently—but with love, faith, and persistence, Suzy proved them wrong. Diagnosed with Joubert Syndrome, Suzy became the oldest known person with the condition at age 51, inspiring everyone she met. Jane's book celebrates her daughter's life and offers guidance for families facing similar challenges.
Connect with us!Grieving Unapologetically is brought to you by The Heart of Miss Bee, Inc. a 501(c)(3) organization that exists to honor the late Beverly E. Carroll. This episode is brought to you by The Heart of Miss Bee, Inc. which exists to honor the late Beverly E. Carroll.
Christian College Sex Comedy: Part 17 I Need A Bigger Bed? In 30 parts, By FinalStand. Listen to the podcast at Explicit Novels. Being dead is wonderful; you never get tired and you have all the time in the world to regret how you ended up this way Yes, Rio," Mercy wiggled in even tighter, "you can annoy me whenever you want." I was starting to seriously work over Heaven's butthole when I caught Barbie Lynn move her lips over to Rio's ear. "You rock," Barbie Lynn whispered to my 'Bro'. Rio kept her eyes shut but grunted in disgust. She was a stone-cold pitiless bad-ass who cared about nothing and nobody, just ask her. "Are you putting your whole god-damn fist up my ass?" Heaven hissed. "That's my thumb, ya big baby," I quietly teased. We owed it to our bed buddies to keep the noise down as much as possible. "That's right, Big Daddy, tear my poor little hinny up," she pouted devilishly. She was on top so she had to press her tits hard against me to whisper in my ear. "Next time I want to be alone so you can treat me like your dog-bitch, press my face into a pillow to stifle my screams, and drill me deeper than you've ever reached before." "Are you trying to make me cum before I even get inside you?" I gasped. "Oh, God, no," Heaven squeaked. "Don't you dare, please," she begged. "You make me feel so good. I'm sorry I teased you. We can take it slow if you want." "If you want to make me happier, play with yourself and let me feel it," I breathed. Heaven struggled for words before giving up and grunting. Her hips shook as she accelerated her hand's manipulations of her cock, which rested tightly against my stomach. At the same time, I switched up my one thumb with three fingers in her rectum. Heaven gave a choked whimper as she took my intrusion tentatively, then pushed down even harder. As my bulbous head pressed past her sphincter, Heaven hiccupped and tears welled in her eyes. "I, I, did the calculations," she gulped. "If I, have sex with you, every twelve hours, my rectum will, adjust so sex, will be more, fun." "You figured this all out?" I teased. "Purely scientific, I swear," she grinned. "It is, not because, I want to, fuck you, all the time." "I respect you for your mind, Heaven, but this time I think you might be too close to the subject matter," I tickled her back. She took hold of my cock. "Too close to this," she gulped. I swiveled my hips back and forth, sending my cock deeper and deeper into Heaven. She eventually gave up any hopes of a coherent argument and curled herself onto my chest, panting. "Hello, Lover," I told her in near silence. "Thank you, my Bitch," she responded between kisses to the line where the jaw meets the throat. The rest of what either one of us wanted to say was lost as I rocked my hips up, propelling my cock even deeper into her bowels. Heaven clawed at my chest as her sexual tension ramped up. Eventually, our symmetry brought Heaven struggling to the end of her road. "Boyfriend, boyfriend, boyfriend," she gurgled. "He's my Boyfriend!" she screamed. At least she didn't use my name, unless you counted the fact that I was the only boy on campus. "Oh, damn," Heaven gasped for air. "Thanks for bringing me back, Zane." We kissed passionately. "Thanks for the, attitude adjustment too." "Huh?" I wondered. I'd heard the term before but not from someone who regularly talked with Heaven. "Iona posted the slang," Heaven gasped-giggled. I shifted my head from the right side of Heaven's head to the left. My shock must have registered with Heaven, whose gaze went from my face to looking over her shoulder to the form of Gabrielle Black. Heaven scrambled off me and pulled the sheets tight. Shades of Gabrielle Black "We need to talk, Zane Braxton." I saw Gabrielle's lips move but I was pretty sure the words floated across the room without disturbing the ears of anyone around us. I gave her a nod, planted on Heaven a reassuring, full-on kiss, then quick-stepped over to a wardrobe and put on a robe. She followed me out, keeping a keen eye on me while mostly hanging in my blind spot. Vivian was sound asleep as we passed her. I took Gabrielle to the far corner of the Solarium, locating a remote control when we were close. Ms. Black gave me a fatally cold look as I punched in the code that would give us a dead zone electronically to talk in. "Surveillance," I held up the remote. She understood the implications. "I want to see more of your so-called gift with women." I had no doubt this was not a sexual come-on. I would have been a hell of a lot happier if it was; instead, it put me in a situation I knew very little about. "Strip," I requested, with as much calm as I could instill in my voice. Gabrielle gave me a lightning assessment, then started shedding her perpetually black outerwear and lingerie. When she finished, the words 'Hot Damn' came up a ton of times unbidden to my thoughts. I worked out regularly, took martial arts, and stretched whenever I could. I might as well have been a coach potato as far as Gabrielle was concerned. She wasn't bulky; rather, strong in the long muscles that counted more for strength and stamina. I still managed to have the courage to ask her to extend her arms and spread her legs. Hell, I even touched her ass, thigh, and caressed the right shoulder twice. When I finished up, I was before her once more. I leaned on the back of a chair and waited, I had taken five minutes, where in most cases it took seconds, but this woman's body wove deceptions like a champion. "Well?" she finally gave in to her curiosity before I gave in to my fear. "Well, I imagine the most important thing to you at this second is the wrists. I did spend some time in a high-pressure private academy in my formative years and I know the difference between horizontal and vertical. Horizontal cuts on the wrist are a cry for help, vertical show a real desire to die." "Now, I can't know for sure that you didn't make two attempts but you look like you're insanely intense, emphasis on the insane, so I guess some fucked up shit happened to you that made you damn sure the only answer was to check out permanently," I stated evenly. "What now?" she questioned me, her intonation utterly devoid of emotion or compassion. "I'd like to tell you what I tell every other woman I learn a secret about, that your past is your business and your business alone," I sighed. "But?" she prodded me. "Gabrielle, your body is a roadmap of pain, suffering, and death," I shrugged, "and there is no damn way you came to this school legally." Gabrielle studied me in a way that made an icy fist grasp my heart. "Of course, I am hardly a poster child for someone who does belong at FFU. Are you going to kill me now or do you want me to continue?" I inquired hopefully. "Mr. Braxton, Zane, the wiring in this place is sub-standard and clearly unauthorized. I would choke you unconscious, put you in the hot tub, then electrocute you," she informed me with the air of a professor describing the events of tenth century Anglo-Saxon England. "I will not do this right now because you are terrified of me, which shows a great deal of insight and intelligence, somewhat remarkable in someone so young," she added. "Okay. Something allowed you to slip past the Psych Evaluation to get into someone's military; I could put that down to being experience with the system plus being clever enough to fool the testers," I said. "Once inside, something fucked up your perception of authority, something not good. I figure you are obsessed with physical defense, bi-sexual, yet your sexual attitude toward me is one of contempt. Since you don't know me enough to hold me in contempt yet, you were abused by a man in authority over you," I delivered the bad news. Gabrielle did not respond. "This is total conjecture but it patches in with what comes later; you entered some kind of actual combat duty. You learned not only that you were good at killing but you liked it. It substituted for sexual release and that whole risk-pain thing you have kept until today. I count six bullet wounds, a knife wound on the back above the right kidney, and two things I guess are shrapnel wounds but I've never seen any before to compare," I added. "I imagine you got out of the regular service because the level of your medical care diminished for a while, then, Bang!, you got this expensive plastic surgery. You do okay for maybe three years, then you pick up that nick in your left ankle, followed by the shoulder getting done," I said. "No indications of why these two injuries?" she narrowed her eyes. "I'm going to go all James Bond on you. Gabrielle Black fell for somebody hard and I'm betting it was a woman. It is kind of frightening to think of what kind of psycho she was to lure you in and trap you," A light flickered in her eyes when I went down this path. "You guarded her, became very close to her as a parade of lovers passed through her life until she sucked you in." "One day you found yourself killing for her and I doubt you asked why. I doubt there was only one time but in the end, it was never enough. One night you came back and found this year's model on the payroll. Gabrielle Black is way too smart to wait for this to play out. You loved her but you liked living more, so you escaped before you were introduced to your employer's retirement plan," I grimaced. "You came back to the United States, your accent indicates time in France or Italy, and this job fell into your lap. Lancaster, Virginia is out of the way enough for you to hide in while close enough to several major cities for you to move around if you need to, so you edit your work record and hire on at an all-girls university," I finished. "What now?" "I don't kill you and Vivian. Making two deaths look like an accident would be incredibly difficult; murder-suicide would only make your female cohorts dig deeper and there are some serious advantages in staying here for me," she stated. Sensing my confusion, she clarified. "Vivian has been awake for some time observing us but I doubt she can hear what we are saying." Gabrielle finished redressing; she gave me a once-over. "My turn. What makes you hard? Seriously, you have been perpetually aroused since I've met you," she mused. "There is a bit of a list: fear, joy, sunlight, moonlight, sex, the impossibility of sex, I informed her. "I understand," Gabrielle cut me off. "Who are you going to tell?" "Christina Buchanan, Cordelia Dresden, and Dana Gorman." I decided that lying would do me worse than no good; I might get one or two lies past Gabrielle and this wasn't the time to waste one. "Good enough. But if there are repercussions from tonight, I will feel far less tolerant toward you," she made sure I understood. I was happy that this looked like a painless parting of the ways. "Thank you," I spoke to her retreating form. She looked over her shoulder questioningly. "For taking me seriously," I explained. She gave a curt nod, turned, and departed. Vivian pretended to be asleep when I returned to bed and I let her. It seemed like the rare sane thing for me to do. Say 'Lesbian Bikers' at your own peril. Mankind is poison because we compromise our souls for the companionship of others "Vivian, I'm going to take a shower," I whispered to Vivian. I was hovering over her from the back of the sofa-sleeper, asking permission to take my shower downstairs. She was laid out beneath me, her jersey bunched up around her breasts and her left thumb hooked into the band of her shorts and pushing them dangerously down. "Umm," she sighed, a little smile tilting her lips. "Honey, I need your permission to use the downstairs shower," I continued. I wisped across her lips with my own. Her smile blossomed into full-blown pleasure. "Okay, I'm getting up, I'm getting up," she moaned. Vivian slowly opened her eyes as she stretched and twisted her body to wakefulness. "Good morning, Zane," she yawned with this adorable little grin on her face. "You look beautiful," I complimented quietly. "Umm, thank you," she purred. "You look, Zane! What are you doing?" she bolted upright, barely missing a head-on-head collision. "I'm asking you permission to go down to the fifth floor and take a shower," I repeated. "Why didn't you simply sneak past me?" she propped herself up on her elbows. "I said I would wait on your decision, so I waited. Can I please, please do something," I pleaded, "before I go nuts?" "Umm, okay," Vivian said cautiously. I reached down to her midsection and she flinched so I held back. No word passed for several seconds so I resumed my journey to her pushed up sleeping jersey and slowly pulled it down until her stomach and crotch were covered. "Zane," Vivian sighed, "could you control your hormones for thirty minutes, when you are awake?" "I have to go now," I stood up, "because covering you up didn't make you any less attractive." "Zane," Vivian came off the sofa and followed me, "you should attempt to look at a woman as a fellow follower of Christ and less in terms of beautiful and ugly and you might be happier. Go take a shower." She's telling me this with an earnest warm face and finely sculpted legs that disappear right below the crotch into that billowing Dallas Cowboys shirt. "Go on and fuck the bitch," Rio growled as she traipsed by with Mercy's hand on her shoulder. Barbie Lynn came slowly limping behind. Barbie flashed me a grin and I raced to catch up. At the bottom of the stairs something occurred to me. "Hon, where is your towel?" I asked Barbie Lynn. She shot me an apologetic smile. I stepped behind Barbie Lynn, ran a hand along her hip to the curve of her stomach and kissed her on the neck. "Take mine; I'll catch up," I chuckled. I draped my towel over her shoulder and bounded up the stairs. At the top of the stairs I stumbled to a stop. Vivian had only then finished taking off her jersey and was holding it in her left hand. The bottom of the shirt scrapped the ground. Vivian looked at me, neither shocked, ashamed, nor outraged. Her breasts were freaking gorgeous, fully round, buoyant, and with a miniscule droop. Her pale blue panties left little to the imagination, her cunt lips clearly camel toed. "I apologize," I quickly spun away and raced to my sleep area. I grabbed a towel and headed straight for the stairs. "Zane, it is okay," Vivian called out. She'd covered her breasts and diaphragm with the jersey. "Huh?" "I don't mind; I know you didn't mean to see me so I'm not offended and I don't feel you went back on your word," she related with a sense of grace. I wasn't truly sure of what word I hadn't gone back on but she appeared happy. "Does that mean you can flash me your ta-ta's guilt free?" I asked hopefully. Vivian regarded me with amusement. "Zane, constantly being distracted by unbridled sexuality will not leave you content," she lectured me patiently. We regarded each other for some time. "Is there anything else I can do for you?" "If you are going to offer, could you come over here, turn around, bend over, grab your ankles and finally look past your thigh at me?" I cringed. She shook her head, regarded me once, then rolled her eyes. "I may not be able to save you but I'm not going to shove you down to damnation either," she stated firmly. "Do it; I won't take advantage of you and I'll tell you a valuable secret," I offered. Lesbian Bikers Normally my chance of success with Vivian and that line was nil, but the convergence of a Gabrielle's midnight visit and her desire to show me that trust and honesty could exist without a sexual context brought her to me. She slowly turned around and assumed my desired position. I rabidly wanted to step up to her, gently slip her panties aside and take her cunt with deep languid strokes. "Please stand up," I groaned. Once she was up I leaned into her ear. "You are not a virgin," I whispered carefully. Vivian tensed slightly. "All it means to me is that you know what you are talking about when you mention sexuality and I have to treat you with more respect. I apologize for prying." She twisted to face me and was about to say something but I put a finger to her lips to silence her. "People are listening," I cautioned her quietly. "Thank you for that," Vivian whispered. "It was one time in high school and we had exchanged Promise Rings. It was a mistake we both regret." "It's all cool," I grinned. "I kind of wish your first time had turned you into a wild sex monkey and you and your beau planned on having five hundred kids, but we're good." "Zane," Vivian sounded exasperated, "I pity the woman you decide to marry." "What?" I acted shocked, "I would never cheat on my wife." "Oh, I believe you, but I fear the poor woman would die from exhaustion," she scolded me. "She'd die happy?" I offered up as my only defense. "Lord, give me strength," Vivian groaned. "Go take a shower." "Gotchya, Boss," I beamed happily. I turned half way to the door, then gave a backward glance. "Vivian, if you ever need anything, just ask." "I, ." she was about to scold me but she stopped and sighed. "Fine, Zane, I know you mean well; now go." I winked and raced away. I could swear Vivian believed she was getting a crash course in Mothering a Teenage Boy. Biker Bar Horror Story It had been a hard day of first-round semester testing plus restructuring the Marksmanship and Orienteering Clubs. I still managed to get in sufficient studying (in my opinion) for Friday's round of activities. At lunch I had a little talk with Cordelia and Christina about Gabrielle Black and their fears concerning her. I really wish both women hadn't looked so concerned. I would have preferred they called me paranoid instead. I was sitting watching some bizarre sitcom rerun with an arm around Iona when Rio came rocketing up the stairs. "Hey, Princess," she screamed at me (in case anyone has missed it, Rio is a freak), "Val found out about a Biker bar called the Dixie Roadhouse and we're heading there. Do you want in?" I looked down to Iona who, despite a look of fearful concern, gave me a nod of consent. "Sure thing, Rio," I said, as I popped over the sofa and pulled Iona along after me. "Zane, you are not going out to a bar," Vivian rose to the challenge. "You are only eighteen." "If I don't go, we may not get Rio back," I cautioned my guardian. "Speaking of which: Rio, where is Mercy?" Vivian rounded on my 'Bro'. "I ambushed her: hit her in the head with the Gutenberg Bible and tied her to the back of Valerie's hog," Rio smiled proudly. Pulling Iona along with me, I pursued Rio down the stairs. "I promise I'll bring them all back," I shouted to Vivian. She was kind enough not to chase me down and make me stay. The Dixie Roadhouse looked like some sort of converted barn with a few cobbled together outbuildings. Mine was probably not the first car to grace this dirt parking lot but it was definitely rare to have a ride with four wheels parked here. I had Rio and Mercy with me. Of course, Mercy had not been beaten and tied up for tonight's outing. Iona had ridden gleefully on the back of Val's bike. "This is going to be epic," Rio exulted. "That's right," I joked tragically. "We are five teenagers in school uniforms going into a place that constantly lays down new sawdust to cover up all the blood." "Hey, Sissy-Boy," Rio punched me, "this is on my Bucket List, so don't wimp out on me now." We quickly paired up, Rio with Mercy and Iona with me. Val, Valkyrie went in alone as she felt that would increase her odds of survival. She also wore her Stormriders' patch and colors. Unfortunately, the rest of her gang was two thousand miles away. "Rio," Valerie coughed as she handed Rio a switchblade. Rio snickered, flipped the blade out several times in quick succession before stealthily stashing it into her waist band. 'Thank God,' I thought, 'she actually knows how to use a knife.' The double doors leading into the bar/club were propped open so we migrated in as a group. People didn't stop and stare but they managed a passable job of telling us to 'get the hell out' with their eyes alone. Valerie led us to the bar where the lone bartender took his time getting to us. The guy was going for the chest hair with a black leather vest look along with copious amounts of facial hair. "We don't serve kids," he growled out when he stopped in front of Valkyrie. "We are not high school kids, we are not cops; we are college kids who need a damn drink, not a lecture. So are you going to give us shit or a beer, because there must be a dozen lame college dumps we can go slumming at." "Who are you?" he grumbled. "Valkyrie, Stormriders," Valerie answered. "What is your name?" he persisted. "Valerie Palmer," she shrugged. "Are you kin of Mad Dog Palmer?" he inquired. "Dude, no one calls him Mad Dog who wants to live, and he's my grandfather," she smiled. "Got it," the bartender gave a sinister grin. "What are you doing here?" "My Dad divorced my Mom and became a born again Christian," she informed the guy. "Harsh; so are these kids yours?" he asked; meaning the rest of us. "They are not members but I consider them my associates," Valkyrie allowed. The bartender shrugged and started handing out beers. Val pulled out a roll of bills and paid for our first round. Val and I took slow steady pulls on our drinks. Rio downed hers in two chugs. Mercy and Iona took tentative sips and made disgusted faces as a result. I paid for Rio's second round. "It tastes awful," Iona whispered to me. "Pretend you are drinking it then. Beer is not for everyone," I assured her, and letting her see my smile dispelled any thought that I felt less of her for being different. "Rio," Mercy tried next. "Drink it," Rio demanded. "Do it, and I'll screw you with the bottle; don't, and I'll pour it over your head and shirt." Mercy choked on her response and took a swig of beer. "You annoy the hell out of me, Mercy," Rio reacted in a warmer tone. I looked at Valerie; she looked to me and nodded. Things could be working out far worse. I noticed six biker babes playing pool off in the darkest corner. I didn't think they were a problem but two of them kept giving me the eye. I hoped my current group of women would provide me shielding. A group of ten bikers came rolling into the place, laughing, punching, and doing other masculine bonding rituals. They noted the five out-of-place newcomers at the bar but didn't seem put out until I saw these two guys in the pack and they saw me. We had a bit of history that went all the way back to a bad night for me on a bench in a communal jail cell. Perhaps I suggested that if they didn't get out of my way, I would shove their heads through the bars of the cell. I was in for two counts of assault and they were in for minor drug possession so they backed down. By the look on their faces, they remembered that night, oh, fuck. "Guys!" I cried out. I came off my stool and quickly walked up to the closer of the two. He actually took a step back into one of his buddies. "It is good to see you, Man," I kept grinning. I stepped up, put my left hand on his right elbow to propel his hand up. I clasped his palm and shook it, chest to chest. "A week ago we were all in lock-up together, I was totally wasted, and this guy and his buddy (I nodded to the second guy) saved my ass. Let me buy all of you guys the first two rounds," I offered. The guy who was clearly the dominant member gave my 'buddy' a look. He figured something wasn't right but he didn't know what it was. The two bikers in the cell hadn't talked about their facedown with some college kid since they'd backed off without a fight. "That's about right, Zane," the guy holding my hand said. "Those two guys get out of the hospital?" he continued as we walked as a group to the bar. "Yeah, I administered a warning more than a lesson," I shrugged. "I wanted them to leave my ladies alone. The point was made. The whole jail thing was the Sheriff getting me back for a fight I was in the previous weekend but no one pressed charges." That earned me some knowing chuckles. Beers were handed out; I paid for this round and the next, my heart finally calming down from the near catastrophe. "Gus, what's with the little girls?" the leader addressed the bartender. He titled his head toward Valkyrie. Her colors gave her the higher status. "The little one is with Zane and those two (Rio and Mercy) are together," Valarie answered deadpan. The big guy put his hand on Iona's shoulder while looking at me. "Mind if I take your girl for a dance," he didn't ask, he told me. "You take your hand off of her and I'll forget you touched my girl," I stated with a quiet calm coming over me. "If I don't?" he taunted me. "I don't play twenty questions," I warned him. "Seriously, dude, you want to get into a fight over a girl barely out of a training bra?" Valerie tried to make light of the situation. "She's his sister." The leader let go of Iona and stepped back. "She's your sister? Why in the hell did you bring you sister to this place?" he was curious. "Are you trying to tell me this place isn't 'family friendly'?" I grinned, finally taking a real breath. "That's a fucked-up way to look at things but yes, I guess it is," he chuckled. He reached past Iona and took his beer. Everyone around us relaxed again. "What were you going to do?" he idly asked me. "Since you had your left hand on Iona and your right was going for that steel rod you use as a sap, I was going crush your trachea then introduce your forehead to the bar," I explained. "That might have killed me," he noted. "Nothing personal, but I had nine more bodies to put down," I reminded him. "I would have given us better than even odds that we would be getting out of here," Valerie joined in. "So you really kicked Dog-Boy and Sticks off their bench?" he changed direction. Apparently, then, some in the gang did know. "They were a bit stoned and I was really pissed off," I exaggerated. "That makes sense; they are idiots," the leader grinned. A group of four more bikers with the same colors as the current crop came in. The guy we'd been talking with and five others broke off and headed to the rear of the establishment to seats around two circular tables. The four guys remaining gathered around Rio and Mercy. One guy put a hand on Mercy's shoulder. "Come on out and see my ride," he grinned at a surprisingly calm Mercy. "Hands off," Rio sneered, "I own the bitch." That caused the four men to look at each other. "Don't worry, I rent her out from time to time," Rio acted nonchalant. Two of the guys closed in, one running a hand down Mercy's shoulder and thigh while the other put a hand on each of her hips. "How much?" he growled. "We can take her into the bathroom right now." "Nope," Rio shrugged. "She's got tests at school tomorrow and I've got her busy all weekend long, but write down your number and I'll call you. Zane, pen." I tossed Rio a pen who handed it to the biggest biker. The guy looked Rio, then to her hand. "No," Rio snickered. "Mercy, off the stool and lean over the bar," she emphasized with a slap to the ass. Mercy scrambled to obey. Rio smiled at the dude then flipped Mercy's skirt up, wedged her already slender lacy underwear into her ass crack. Rio smacked a cheek. "Here you go." "Hell, ya," he laughed, as he scrawled his name and number over Mercy's proffered ass cheek. "Are you sure you are going to remember this?" "Oh, yeah; I'm going to be pounding this ass most of the night when I get her home," Rio told him. "I thought you said she had tests tomorrow," the third guy joked. "So do I, and that means I've got a lot of stress to work through," Rio grinned shark-like. "She's going to have to suck it up." That earned another round of laughs. "You really, truly annoy the hell out of me, Mercy," Rio snorted. Mercy resumed her barstool, turned to face Rio and sipped her beer once more. The warming radiance of Mercy's smile was both tragic and sweet. I stole a look toward Iona who had a wide-eyed curious look about her and ended up at Valarie, who looked relieved enough to finally put her back to the bar and look around. We were into our second beer (still Iona and Mercy's first and Rio's fourth) when our sense of ease began floundering. One of the biker chicks that had been playing pool came over to get a round of beers for her outfit. "Candy-ass whores," the woman taunted Rio as she picked up the six beers and walked away. Rio looked to me, somewhat confused and then outraged, and ended up with a glance to Valarie. "What did you say?" Rio sounded disarmingly curious to the biker chick. "You heard me," the woman scoffed. Rio was off the stool like a shot and brought her beer down on the biker chick's head. "Iona, stay close behind me," I hissed. I motioned to Mercy to get her attention. Before the woman could right herself, Rio kicked her in the thigh. As she stumbled forward, all of her beers crashed to the sawdust on the ground. Since the target of her wrath wasn't face-planting fast enough, Rio linked her fists together and hammer-slammed the chick between the shoulder blades; down she went. "I told you to repeat what you said, Bitch!" Rio screamed as she kicked the fallen woman in the ribs. At that point, three of the biker chick's closest companions descended on Rio and pulled her away. Valarie gestured to me to stay seated and I got Mercy's attention and kept her on her stool as well. "Hold her up," growled the biker girl Rio had decked. "What did you say, Bitch?" Rio snarled right back. "Lose the bull-dykes and I'll make you taste my shoe leather." "She's trying to get killed," Valarie whispered to me. Iona tensed with fear. "No, she's trying to get us all killed," I responded softly. "Let's take her outside," the first biker babe suggested as Rio struggled and kicked, attempting to free herself. "No," a different girl directed. "Let's take her to the john; I have an idea." The other women laughed and began dragging Rio away. "Zane!" Rio called out, "We are about to have a Leather Lesbian Slut orgy. Join in anytime you like." That was my cue to get my ass kicked. I moved to intervene, Val on my left between me and the worst of the crowd, Mercy to my right, and Iona taking up the rear. Sadly, a guy around my height but with a beer gut decided that I wasn't going to have an easy time of it. "No, you don't," he threatened. It was pretty clear four or five other guys were ready to jump in. Rio's cursing form disappeared behind the doors. I didn't have much time before Rio incensed the biker chicks so much they throttled her. "Do you have a gun?" I asked with as much patience as I could muster. He grinned evilly, pulled back his vest, and showed me the automatic he had stuck into his belt. I waited until his hand released the vest and moved toward his hip. I snatched the gun, flipped it around and rammed the barrel into his stomach. The only sound in the place was the four overhead fans and some Chris Rock wannabe belting it out over the stereo system. Rio's screams were becoming shriller. "I don't appreciate you pointing a gun at one of my brothers," a different man said. He was one of the group of four that had arrived earlier but I had the impression he was 'somebody'. "I'm really busy right now but I promise to deal with you when I retrieve my friend; okay?" I didn't wait for his response because I was sure it would suck. "Do you want me to feed you your gun back one bullet at a time?" I prodded the guy I had the gun on? He looked around for the moral support from his gang members. "Do it and you are dead," he countered with what I felt was false bravado. "That will hardly do you any good," I grinned as I cocked the hammer back. "Do you want your gun back?" "Ah, yes?" the biker gulped. "Are you going to let me get my girl and get her out of here?" I asked. "Ah, sure?" he seemed confused. I un-cocked the gun, flipped the handhold around and offered him his piece, grip first. No one appeared to know what to make of that. As if expecting a trick, the guy moved slowly. When he took it, I made to move past him. "You be careful now," I told him. He cocked the gun and pressed it into the side of my ribs. "Fuck you," he managed to get out before the 'click' and the point of Valkyrie's blade dug into his jugular, drawing a line of blood. "You really are too fucking stupid to live," Val seethed. "I'm Valkyrie of the Stormriders," she challenged the room. "We wage war on the Hell's Angels and the Mongols so some two-bit outfit like you Warlords doesn't bother me in the least. I'll bleed every one of you fuckers. Your bitch picked a fight with our bitch and you wouldn't man up and deal with it so now my friends will," she growled. "Zane, go get Rio." I nodded quickly and moved past the guy with the gun. "Iona with me; Mercy, you watch Valkyrie's back," I ordered. Iona clung to my back while Mercy hesitantly moved back to back with Val. She wanted to come with us and save Rio, no doubt. I raced over to the women's bathroom and flung open the door. Four sets of eyes riveted me as I came in. The other two women were busy shoving Rio headfirst into one of the toilets. The rest of us were facing knives and guns and Rio was about to get a swirlie. "Hi," I stammered. The two women holding Rio down backed out of the stall and joined the stand-off. "Zane, what fucking took you so long?" Rio panted. She staggered out and looked Iona and I over. "Where the fuck is Mercy?" Rio sounded concerned. "You stupid cow!" I snapped. "We are about to be murdered because of you, damn it." "You left Mercy out there with those animals?" Rio screeched back. She tried to push past the other biker chicks but thankfully didn't get very far. I'd have decked her myself. "Would you please give us our friend back," I requested after taking a deep breath. I was about to be told 'no' when one of the other bikers stepped into the light and I made her out clearly for the first time. "You're, I started to say. "You are Zane Braxton," she stated. "The guy who fucked your sister for an hour?" the lady closest to the lead girl asked. "Yeah," she leered. "He's the kid from the DVD she sent me and her husband, the bitch." Yes, this was the twin sister of the Sheriff's Deputy I'd had a three-way with. Didn't she work at a college club as a bartender? What a small damn world. The whole atmosphere of the room changed. Rio shrugged off the hands holding on to her but didn't bolt. "Rio, take Iona out to the others and wait for me in the parking lot," I insisted. "No, Zane. I'm not leaving you here to take Rio's beating," Iona resisted. Rio wasn't abandoning me either. I reached out and stroked Iona's hair and put my keys in her hand. "It will be okay. No one is going to kill anyone here tonight. Now I need you to go so I can settle up accounts," I grinned down at her with only a twinge of worry. Rio resolved the matter by taking Iona by the hand and dragging her out. Iona looked to be on the verge of tears. Rio's eyes told me she's suddenly sobered up and was regretting leaving me in harm's way. I looked back at the six women and the one oddity chipped away at my senses but I didn't know what to make of it. "So, how's your husband?" was the only, and rather lame, thing I could think to say. "I think he's turned State's Evidence against the Aryan Nation," she shrugged. "I thought your husband was some sort of hardened criminal," I inquired. "Ha," several of the chicks chuckled. "Zane, my husband is an accountant," she clarified with some amusement at my expense. "But, weapons charges, he was laundering money?" I pieced it together. "Good job, College boy," the 'strange' woman congratulated me. "Let's get you out of here before someone takes offense," the leader said. "Give me your number and we'll walk you out. I'm Belle, by the way." She offered her hand and I foolishly kissed it. I quickly gave up my digits, then we did a series of handshakes, French kisses and introductions. When the 'strange' woman's turn came, she introduced herself as Willa. I wanted to fucking cry because just looking at a woman will tell me a good deal about her person, a handshake even more, and a kiss is freaking El Dorado. Willa was a biker chick but she was also college educated, had a regimented training background, and was the only woman in the room who was looking for a way to not hurt Rio, very service-minded of her. "There may be a problem," I interrupted as we headed for the door. "There is this guy," I described the guy I took the gun from, "who I took his gun and threatened him with it. This other guy," I painted a portrait of the authoritative guy, "told me he was pissed with the whole gun thing." All the women stopped and looked at one another. "Zane, where is the gun?" Belle questioned me. "I gave it back to him once he agreed that I could come in here and retrieve Rio, my friend," I answered. "It is a damn miracle you aren't dead," Willa scowled. "I would have been but my other buddy, Val, put a knife to his throat. I left her with Rio's companion covering her back," I explained. "She's kind of tough." "That the one with Stormrider colors?" Belle asked. "Yeah. She's Valarie Palmer, my classmate as FFU," I told them. "Is she Damien Palmer's little girl?" Willa guessed. "She's his oldest granddaughter; is that important?" I inquired. The women seemed nervously amused by my ignorance. "He's a God-damn legend, Zane," Belle said. "Damien Palmer once took the Stormriders to a Mongol gathering in Las Vegas. Outnumbered three to one, they kicked serious ass, cleared out the place, and he ended the fight by grabbing a Mongol chapter president and some other poor Mongol bastard, jumped out a fifth-story balcony, and used their bodies to cushion his fall. I doubt prison has mellowed him much." "Your problems are a little more immediate. The guy whose gun you took is Big Ted, he's a moron. That 'other guy' is Deacon, Warlord chapter president for Northern Virginia," Willa weighed in. "Is he going to let my girls go?" I fretted. "Let's go and find out," Belle shrugged. We stepped out, Belle in the lead, followed by Willa, then me, then the rest. There were a few guys standing by the doors watching something. No one was jumping around or nursing serious wounds so I hoped the girls had exited. "Belle, the kid and I need to have a word out back," Deacon ordered confidently. "Deacon, my sister is keeping an eye on this guy," Belle suggested. "It may not be a good idea to put him in the hospital." "We can't let him push Big Ted around; it is happening," Deacon declared. "Big Ted," she looked to the guy I'd punked, "you want to kick Zane's ass out front?" Belle left Big Ted in the awkward position of taking his chances with me or looking weak in front of his gang. "I'll hand him his nuts," Big Ted growled. Deacon gave his consent and the club emptied out into the front lot. My girls were huddled around my car and Valarie's bike. Rio looked like she was going to do something stupid like run up to me but Mercy and Val held her back. I was actually relieved to see that Iona was behind the wheel of my car with the engine running. The Warlords spread out in a rough semi-circle with Deacon, Big Ted and Belle in the center. I had backed up about ten feet toward the road, facing the Warlords, when Big Ted came for me. He was about my height but around fifty pounds heavier, thus the name Big Ted. The Warlord flexed his arms and did some kind of primitive gesture meant to intimidate me. "So do we start with 'ready, set, go' or what?" I questioned. That brought a round of laughter from the motorcycle gang and Big Ted looked over his shoulder to share in their mirth. My first kick caught him in the nuts, the second one caught him in the chest and knocked him down, and the third saw me stomping on his nut sack once again. I swept around him and kicked him in the head hard enough, he rolled over twice in the dust. Ted was seriously unconscious. For ten seconds no one said a word. Any hope I had of getting away with my underhanded win began to fade when Deacon came forward. "You come to my roadhouse, beat up one of my people, and expect to get away with it?" he grumbled. "Deacon, I am so very sorry this happened. My friends and I only wanted to come by, have a few beers, and let my buddy Val soak in the kind of establishment she was used to going to, namely a biker bar," I said carefully. "Things were said, my best bud went a little nuts, and the shit got out of hand. How can I make it up to you?" "What the fuck can you do for me?" Deacon sneered. "Five thousand dollars?" I threw out there. He studied me. "You have that kind of money?" he questioned me. "Absolutely; I can have you the money tomorrow at six p.m." I promised. "Don't fuck up," he stated with menace, "or I will hunt you and your friends down. Got it?" "Understood," I pledged. Deacon snorted in disdain and headed back inside. The rest of the Warlords were heading inside with a few dragging Ted in and I finally let my focus expand beyond my immediate environs. The car pulling up was still unexpected. I knew the shape of the person who stepped out of the Sheriff's cruiser. "Zane," Sheriff's Deputy Tara Cavanaugh greeted me happily. "Belle," she said to her sister with far less warmth. "Zane, what brings you here?" "A schoolmate of mine is a motorcyclist; she wanted to see what a biker bar was like so we ended up here." "We couldn't get in because we are only eighteen but another friend of mine got sick and had to go to the bathroom. Belle was good enough to get her out," I lied. "Zane, you have sawdust on your shoes," Tara pointed out. "I had to go part of the way in to get my friend," I grinned feebly. "Zane, are you lying to me?" Tara frowned. "Yes," I admitted. "The truth is only going to cause a whole lot of trouble, though." "Wow, morally flexible where the law is concerned," Belle licked her lips. "Of course we already knew he was all kinds of flexible, didn't we?" "Usually the point where I start being talked about like a piece of meat is my cue to leave," I stated crossly. "Deputy Cavanaugh, may I leave now?" "Beat it, Zane," Tara told me. "Thanks, Deputy; take care, Belle. It was nice to meet you and thanks for all your help," I thanked her before rejoining my companions. Valarie drove alone in the lead. The rest of us followed in my car, sans conversation. Sorting Through One Helluva Mess We kept our silence until we stepped out of the elevator on the fifth floor. Valarie grabbed Rio ferociously, slammed her into the wall with one hand holding Rio's right bicep while her forearm was pressed so it choked Rio's throat. "You stupid, crazy bitch!" Valarie howled. "You could have gotten us all killed!" I looped an arm around Mercy's waist before she could go charging to Rio's rescue, and have Valarie beat her up. "Hang on, Mercy; I'll work this out," I whispered. She nodded but her concern was burning through. It was heart-warming to see Iona put an arm through Mercy's in what would be a futile gesture to keep Mercy still if things went bad. "Get your hands off me, Cum-dumpster," Rio snarled, followed by some choking noises as Valerie applied pressure to her windpipe. Next Rio tried to kick Valerie but the bigger woman deflected it with her thigh. It was time for me to step up. "I've got this, Valerie," I told her calmly. Valerie stepped back because she figured her next option was to beat Rio black and blue. I moved into Valerie's place but put my hands to either side of Rio's shoulders. "Rio, this is done; let's put it aside and go to bed early if you want, but I want to ask you one thing if you'll let me," I asked softly. "Fuck off, Zane," Rio rumbled, "I'm not in the mood for one of your mind games." "Okay," I shrugged. "To the Bitter End," I nodded. "To the Bitter End," she muttered back, her eyes drooping to the ground. "We are done," I told the rest of the crowd. Valerie snorted angrily and I figured she'd either bitch me out or never speak to me again. Rio grabbed me before I got away. "I, damn it, Zane, I screwed up again," she choked back a sob. "I'm fine, Rio. I signed on for the crazy so I have no one to blame but myself," I reassured her. "What did you want to ask me?" she sighed as she put her cheek on my chest. "Bro, I can't keep charging in to save you and keep Iona safe at the same time. What am I going to do?" I inquired. "Sorry, Man. I fucked up big time," she moaned. "I don't know why it happened." "That doesn't matter, Rio. Let's call it a night," I said serenely. We started to break up and I could see Valerie still glaring hate at me and Rio. "Rio, do me a favor?" "What?" Rio sounded dejected. "What was the second and, third thing you asked me in the bathroom?" I inquired. Rio snapped her face up toward me, angry and upset. "Don't," she insisted. "I have a near-eidetic memory so if you don't remember, I do," Iona chimed in. "Shut up, you two," Rio snarled. "Rio, I have had it with you. Jump and I'll kick in your teeth," Val seethed in response. Mercy looked ready to jump in too. "You said 'Where is, I began. "Don't, damn it," Rio growled, but she could see I wasn't going to relent. "Fine," she groaned in defeat. "I asked where Mercy was, then I bitched you out for leaving her with those 'animals'. Happy now?" "Pretty much, yeah," I tried not to sound pleased with myself. What I did accomplish was put a glimmer of understanding in Valerie's mind. A few seconds later Mercy clued in too. "Oh, Rio," Mercy teared up, "you didn't have to worry." "I swear, if you cry I'm going to shove so many ice cubes up your cunt, your eyes will shimmer like a snow globe," Rio swore to Mercy. "Rio," Valerie sighed with exasperation, "Learn how to fight, and more importantly, learn when not to fight." In the pack dynamic, going off and picking your own fight was nuts; fighting for someone in your group was totally different. By the uncomplicated code that nomads lived by, you stuck up for your own, and that made all the difference to Valerie. Rio was still crazy and could have gotten us all killed, but she'd done it for another member of the group; in this, case, Mercy. That demanded a reprimand, not expulsion. "How about we go up to Zane's and have some ice-cream?" Iona suggested. "We have ice-cream?" Rio perked up. "When did this happen?" "Rio," Iona sighed wearily, "we put them in on the first day. They are two 1950's style ice-cream freezers, one opposite the close showers and the other down by the far kitchenette." "Mercy," Rio grinned fiercely, "Bring several wash cloths to bed tonight. I'm going to cover your nipples with mint chocolate chip and lick it off." I wondered if Mercy could actually orgasm to death, she certainly looked ready to. "I thought you were going to, Mercy turned to Rio and patted her own behind. "Pound-cake, what makes you think you are getting any sleep tonight?" Rio chastised Mercy, then spanked her ass. "Rio, are you bi-polar?" Val ground out. "One second you are weeping on Zane's shoulder and the next you are engaging in kinky foreplay with your girlfriend." "She's not my girlfriend, she's my toy," Rio corrected. "Also, this shit ain't over. I know Zane jumped on a grenade meant for me but I can't do anything about it right now. I know I put us all in danger, again, nothing I can do about it at the moment. I do know that when I find that bitch Belle or any of her girl-pals, I'm going upside their heads with a pool cue, though." "Gosh," mused Iona, "I should figure out what I want on my tombstone." "Mine is going to read 'didn't kill Rio Talon soon enough'," griped Valerie. "Hardy-har-har," grumped Rio. "You are acting like they'll ever find our bodies." "You annoy me," Mercy whispered to Rio before licking her ear. "Careful, you," Rio smirked. "Ice cubes-cunt snow globe." I was thankful when I got to the door lock, entered my code, and held the door for them to head up. I tagged Valerie at the top of the stairs. She looked at me with annoyance but softened to curiosity when she saw my concern. "Zane," Vivian called out before I got anywhere. "We need to talk." That was depressing. "Val, I need to ask you something important. Can you please wait?" I asked the biker babe. "Sure," she promised before heading to get a drink. I walked with Vivian into my bedroom area. At the foot of the bed was laid out a skirt, shirt, bra, panties and socks. The shoes were on the floor. The owner was no mystery. Reclining on the pillows was Paige. She was clothed, sort of. She was decked out all in brilliant red: stockings, garter belt, silky panties, and a gauze-like bra that highlighted her pale breasts perfectly. Her flesh radiated like freshly fallen snow and her hair flowed forth from my pillow like a glacier crafted by spiders into a delicate web. "Hey," I sighed hungrily. "Hey," Paige responded in a rich sultry voice. "Paige!" Vivian snapped. "How did you get past me?" "I'm a ghost-panthress stalking my prey," Paige leered. "With the way Zane's heart is pounding, I'm doing a good job of it too." "Get up, put on a robe, and leave the room now," Vivian insisted. "Oh," groaned Paige as she rolled over and shook her delicious shaped bottom at me, "I'm so tired. I need someone's help in getting out of bed." Yes, I wanted to go to the bed right then, but it had nothing to do with helping Paige actually get out of that bed or that position. "I'll take care of her," I told Vivian. I walked to a wardrobe across the room, opened it up, and took a look around inside. Vivian walked behind me and gasped. "What are you doing with all these robes, all these women's robes, Zane?" Vivian muttered. "I got them predicated on the notion that I would have women up here. I thought it would be considerate of me to give them a choice of what to wear," I indicated my selection. "How did you smuggle them all in here?" Vivian wondered. "We have mail service, Vivian. I ordered them online." She seemed confused. The university didn't block clothing sites from their computer network. I pulled out a short red one with a white and black tiger circling on the back and showed it to Paige. "Oh, cool, I'll look like a Bangkok whore," Paige sounded conflicted. "Actually, this one is from China so that would make you a White Russian Shanghai hooker," I corrected. "Oh, I like that," Paige purred as she crawled over to my side of the bed on all fours. &qu
In this powerful message from Pastor Landon Schott, we continue The X Commandments series by uncovering the spiritual weight of the fifth commandment—“Honor your father and mother.” Learn how honor unlocks blessing, protection, and longevity in your life, and how dishonor opens the door to rebellion, broken families, and spiritual warfare. Pastor Landon exposes the difference between biblical honor and cultural rebellion, revealing how the way you treat your parents—and your children—reflects your heart toward God. You'll discover: •Why honoring your parents is foundational to all of society •The dangers of rebellion and how it partners with witchcraft •The difference between loving discipline and abusive control •How to lead your home with both authority and affection •The generational blessings that flow from honor Whether you're a parent, a child, or a spiritual leader, this message will challenge you to bring your home into divine order and experience the reward of honor.
From the Inside Out: With Rivkah Krinsky and Eda Schottenstein
Send us a textUnbreakable Faith: A Mother's Journey of Strength, Pain, and Miracles with Shelly ShemtovIn one of the most moving conversations we've ever had on From the Inside Out, we sit with Shelly Shemtov, the mother of Omer Shemtov, who was held captive in Gaza for 505 days.Shelly opens her heart and takes us into a mother's worst nightmare, and her unshakable faith that never wavered. Through anguish and uncertainty, she refused to break. She believed with all her heart that her son would return, and miraculously, he did.With tears, strength, and breathtaking humility, Shelly shares how she spoke to God through the darkness, how gratitude and prayer became her lifeline, and how even in the tunnels, Omer felt the light of Am Yisrael surrounding him.This is more than a story of survival, it's a story of the power of a mother's love, the depth of Jewish faith, and the miracle of hope that never dies.If you've ever faced pain you couldn't understand, or prayed for something that felt impossible, this conversation will move you, strengthen you, and remind you that light truly does rise from the deepest darkness.GUEST BIOShelly Shem Tov is the mother of Omer Shemtoy, one of the lsraeli hostages taken on October 7, 2023, and held in Gaza for 505 days. For over a year and a half, Shelly became a symbol of unyielding maternal strength, leading a global fight for her son's release with courage, faith, and relentless determination. Today, she shares her deeply personal journey through powerful lectures on hope, inner strength, and renewed purpose born from enduring the unimaginable. Shelly speaks from the heart-offering audiences an intimate window into her story of love, faith, and the ability find light in the darkest of moments.Shelly's emotional and inspirational talk will provide you with real world tools for growth from hardship.Shelly is currently in the US, and if you would like to contact her regarding speaking engagements please reach out at metadvocacy@gmail.comCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Overview02:17 Shelly's Journey of Faith and Strength05:50 Omer's Captivity and Resilience10:09 The Power of Faith and Community Support20:02 Reflections on Freedom and Gratitude22:33 The Road to Healing and Advocacy31:17 Embracing Bitachon in Life's Journey32:21 Healing and Reflection33:13 Insights from a Love Coach34:52 The Power of Self-Love46:21 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Confidence49:32 Unity and Advocacy54:40 Dancing Through AdversityCOMMUNITYJoin the Community! Connect with us on socials to discuss Episode 101, share insights, and continue the conversations you want to have:
The Ulysses Arc was so paradigm shifting that we need an entire Downtime Arc to unpack it! Doc Hop searches for the GLADYS loom with Lady Falconbridge. Doc Hop explores possibilities for her new hoard with Gertrude. Doc Hop brainstorms solutions to the lair shortage crisis with Schmegglesby. STARRING - Austin Yorski: https://bsky.app/profile/austinyorski.bsky.social Laura Kate Dale: https://bsky.app/profile/laurakbuzz.bsky.social Quinn Larios: https://bsky.app/profile/rollot.bsky.social SUPPORT - Patreon.com/AustinYorski Patreon.com/LauraKBuzz Patreon.com/WeeklyMangaRecap AUDIO - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHrF-ZfdwIk Kirby Super Star OC ReMix by TSori & Others: "Until the Next Dance" [Meta Knight: Ending]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeEvMkYAU1o Katherine Cordova - YouTube Dragon Warrior VII OC ReMix by Bluelighter...: "Deeper in the Heart" [Days of Sadness] (#3762) EarthBound OC ReMix by The Vodoú Queen: "Get Down with Your Bad Self, Mr. Saturn!" [Hi Ho] (#4798) Hollow Knight OC ReMix by DaMonz feat. Christine Giguère: "A Dream" [Dirtmouth] (#4884) Mother 3 OC ReMix by Sebastien Skaf: "Your Warmth" [Theme of Love] (#4850) OC ReMix #499: Little Nemo 'Nemo for Strings' [Dream 1: Mushroom Forest] by Gux Zelda: Breath of the Wild OC ReMix by RebeccaETripp...: "Bard in the Rain" [Kass] (#4813) COMMUNITY - Discord: https://discord.gg/YMU3qUH Wiki: https://dicefunk.ludo.au/
On July 4th, 2025 an 870-page tax bill called the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' (OBBBA) was signed into to law. Some parts have been heavily discussed and others not so much. So we dug around ourselves and pulled out some hidden messages you may have missed that could have major implications to your FI (Financial Independence) journey.
Still A Part of Us: A podcast about stillbirth and infant loss
Joy and Winter talk about what has helped since the stillbirth of Lila, who was stillborn at 20 weeks due to a placental previa. Joy talks about how her family, especially her son, will include. Lila in everything they do as a family. Joy also talks about how she will always live with both happiness and sadness in everything she does, and that's okay. DONATE $5 (aka "buy us a coffee/hot cocoa") to support the continued production of these stories. We appreciate all the help toward production and hosting costs. Or if you want to purchase an "Always a Part of Us" Legacy Gift for $20, you'll be providing to one of these families that shares their story, full transcriptions, mp3s, and mp4s of the recordings of their baby's birth story and advice episodes for their family history records. You will also get a shout-out on an upcoming episode. Thank you! Donate: https://ko-fi.com/stillapartofus SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel for more birth stories from families who have experienced a stillbirth or infant loss. We're grateful that you're part of our community! https://www.youtube.com/stillapartofus SUBSCRIBE to our podcast Still A Part of Us, wherever you find podcasts. Links (some of these links are affiliate links, which means we may get a small commission off your purchase, at no extra cost to you): Website: http://stillapartofus.com/ Grief Support Groups: https://nationalshare.org/ #stillbirthstory #stillborn #stillbornstory #birthstory #infantloss #infantdeath #babydeath #stillmychild #podcast #birthstories #babyloss #mybabydied #bereavedmother #bereavedfather #infantlossawareness #dadsgrievetoo #mamasgrief #pals #childloss #lifeafterloss #saytheirnames #babylossawareness #breakingthesilence #grievingmom #grievingdad #bereavedparents #pregnancyandinfantlossawarenessmonth
Bonus Episode #56 of BGMania: A Video Game Music Podcast. Today on the show, Bryan and Kyle dive deep into Ghost of Yotei, Sucker Punch's chilling follow-up to Ghost of Tsushima. Set amid the wilderness of Ezo, this cinematic action-adventure blends folklore, myth, and breathtaking visuals into one of the year's most atmospheric experiences. The guys share their impressions of how the game feels to play right from the opening hours, covering its sound design, pacing, and artistic direction while discussing how the world and mood are established. From there, the conversation moves into combat flow, exploration, progression, and how alive the world feels as you climb the shadowed slopes of Mount Yotei. We wrap up with thoughts on the soundtrack's tone and speculate about what might come next for the Ghost series. This is a laid-back, spoiler-light discussion for anyone curious about how Yotei builds on the legacy of Tsushima while forging a spirit all its own. Email the show at bgmaniapodcast@gmail.com with requests for upcoming episodes, questions, feedback, comments, concerns, or any other thoughts you'd like to share! Special thanks to our Executive Producers: Jexak, Xancu, Jeff, & Mike. EPISODE PLAYLIST AND CREDITS Ghost of Yotei from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] The Yotei Six from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] Atsu's Theme from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa feat. Clare Uchima, 2025] Oyuki's Theme from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] The Way of the Shamisen from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] Wanderer from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] Clan Matsumae from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] Mother's Song from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa feat. Clare Uchima, 2025] Onryo from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] Upon the Wind from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] Ishikari Plain from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] The Call of Revenge from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] Shogun of the North from Ghost of Yotei [Toma Otowa, 2025] Rei and Retribution from Ghost of Yotei [Mark De Clive-Lowe/Shinichiro Watanabe, 2025] LINKS Patreon: https://patreon.com/bgmania Website: https://bgmania.podbean.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/cC73Heu Facebook: BGManiaPodcast X: BGManiaPodcast Instagram: BGManiaPodcast TikTok: BGManiaPodcast YouTube: BGManiaPodcast Twitch: BGManiaPodcast PODCAST NETWORK Very Good Music: A VGM Podcast Listening Religiously
We welcome back the radiant Carson Meyer — doula, author, mother, and founder of C & The Moon — for an intimate conversation on the motherhood portal. Carson joins Nitsa in their second trimester of pregnancy to share honest reflections as she prepares for baby #2, the realities of expanding her family holistically and her creative evolution. We explore cycles of conception, gestation, birth, postpartum and beyond; how nourishment mirrors nature's reciprocity; the power of slowing down and ultimate surrender. Tune in for Pregnancy and birth as a rite of passage — every time Second Trimester Revelations How motherhood invites new layers of transformation Carson's journey from birth doula to author and educator Roots of nourishment: reciprocity, community, and rest The inspiration behind Growing Together and upcoming final circle Off grid living: moving from Los Angeles to a log cabin in the Mountains Balancing business, marriage, and motherhood with grace and humor Emotional and physical shifts in second pregnancy — from cravings to hormonal waves Postpartum recs, bodywork, co-sleeping, and nourishment A Mother' superpower: INTUITION Watch the video replay here OFFERING C & The Moon: 15% off all products with the code SOUNDFOOD candthemoon.com Growing Together: use TOGETHER for the 10% off the last Growing Together Circle of the season Living Libations: 15% off livinglibations.com/soundfood (discount automatically applied) see “mentioned” below for Nitsa's current rotation Cookma: enter SOUNDFOOD for 15% off nourishing one-pot ayurvedic meals from cookma.co CONNECT With our Guest Carson Meyer Instagram: @ccmeyer | @candthemoon Website: carsonmeyer.com | candthemoon.com Book: Growing Together Carson's Substack: Beyond Birth Host: @nitsacitrine | @soundfoodspace Substack: Love & Other Frequencies MENTIONED C & The Moon Malibu Made Scrub Malibu Glow Oil from C & the Moon Frankincense Honey Mask from Living Libations Petal Primer Yoni Serum from Living Libations Amazing Grace Spray Living Libations Shiva Rose Blue Cleansing Balm (SOUNDFOOD for 15% off) Growing Together Circle use code TOGETHER for 10% off Cookma Mama Bundle ( SOUNDFOOD for 15% off) Lori Bregman (Carson's mentor and Nitsa's doula) Mindful Mom to be Renegade Beauty by Nadine Artemis The Nurture Revolution by Greer Kirshenbaum Safe Infant Sleep by James McKenna German New Medicine WAVELENGTH EP. 72 Nature to Nurture with Carson Meyer EP. 105 Medicine of the Sun with Nadine Artemis EP. 90 Biohacking for Women with Dr. Karley Denoon NOURISH This podcast is nourished by your donations and our partners: New! COOKMA: SOUNDFOOD for 15% off nourishing one-pot meals from cookma.co AWAVEAWAVE: enter CITRINE for 15% off at awaveawake.com LIVING LIBATIONS: enjoy 15% off all botanical beauty alchemy with this link https://livinglibations.com/soundfood(discount automatically applied) MIKUNA: enter SOUNDFOODFAMILY for 25% off regenerative plant protein from Mikunafoods.com LIVING TEA: SOUNDFOOD for 15% off all tea nourishment livingtea.net SUPERFEAST: enter CITRINE for 10% off our favorite tonic herbs + superfoods superfeast.com OSEA: enter CITRINE for 10% off oseamalibu.com sea-to-skin magic Kindly share this episode and leave us a review on APPLE or SPOTIFY it means the world to us and keeps these conversations evolving!
Send us a textThe conversation starts with a memory many families know too well: an early checkup, a handful of red flags, and years of whispered support plans. From there, we move into motion—Carol Waldman shares how a lonely path through therapies and IEPs grew into public advocacy, culminating in a unanimous San Diego measure to expand training and hiring for neurodiverse adults. Along the way, we unpack what real inclusion looks like: a high school three-pointer that turned tokenism into belonging, a faith community that gave meaningful roles instead of sidelined programs, and a DC internship that paired mentorship with responsibility.We talk plainly about autism's spotlight: awareness is up, but understanding often lags behind. Carol challenges the “cause vs. cure” narrative and makes a case for funding supports that change daily life—teacher training, sensory-aware classrooms, transition programs, and workplaces designed for different minds. She walks us through Andrew's journey—pushing past lowered expectations, building confidence, navigating a pandemic quarantine alone, joining a new city's social fabric, and learning the gritty skills of networking and persistence. These are not headline moments; they're the scaffolds of independence.If you're an educator, you'll hear concrete ways to reframe goals without shrinking expectations. If you're an employer or HR leader, you'll get a blueprint for inclusive job design, mentorship, and transparent communication. And if you're a policymaker or advocate, you'll see why data-backed programs and accountability in public hiring matter more than press releases. Most of all, you'll feel the throughline: do not underestimate neurodiverse potential. Expect growth, provide tools, and watch confidence turn opportunity into outcome.Subscribe, share this conversation with someone who needs it, and leave a review with one change you want to see in schools or workplaces. Your ideas help us push this movement from visibility to real access.Support the show
Shaun Usher's Letters of Note project became a cultural empire spanning multiple books, stage shows, and an online archive. He's now produced Diaries of Note - a collection of diary entries that span centuries from the great and the good . He discusses the relationship between a diary entry and a poem.Katrina Naomi on her latest pamphlet of poems, Dance As If, in which she reconnects with her body, as a woman of a certain age, through the medium of dance.Amani Saeed on the culmination of the Language Is A Queer Thing project which for the last three years has brought poets from India and England together to create new work.Mother and daughter, Fran Edwards and Jennifer Jones, on Rebirth - a collection of poems which began as a private conversation reflecting on their relationship, during the pandemic.Presenter Ian McMillan Producer: Ekene Akalawu
What do you do when your mother's voice is silenced—but her words refuse to be forgotten?In this week's episode of Latter-Day Lights, we sit down with sisters Jessie Lake and Molly Johnson, whose mother was tragically killed as a result of domestic violence. Years later, while unpacking old boxes, they uncovered something extraordinary—eight beautifully written children's stories she had finished before she died. What began as heartbreak has now become a mission to publish her work, share her light, and help other families heal.Their story isn't just about loss—it's about courage, faith, and finding purpose in the unthinkable. You'll hear how these two women turned silence into strength, grief into growth, and pain into a platform for awareness and hope. It's one of the most powerful conversations we've ever had—and by the end, you'll see that sometimes, the light we lose is the same light that guides us home.*** Please SHARE Jessie and Molly's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/iCNQaDwaIxUTo follow Jessie and Molly's story about their mom and her books, visit: https://www.instagram.com/bartybooksIf you know anyone who needs help with domestic violence, visit: https://www.thehotline.org-----To READ or LISTEN to Scott's book, "Faith To Stay," visit: https://www.faithtostay.com-----Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylightsAlso, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.#LDSPodcast #ChristianStories #LatterDayLights
This week's story is a tale from Fife about a lad who takes his mother's advice a little too seriously... Story: Jock and his Mother Written and read by Rebecca Brown Find a text version of this story on our website: https://folklorescotland.com/jock-and-his-mother/ Support our work on Kofi: ko-fi.com/folklorescotland Thank you to Linley for providing the fabulous artwork for this series! www.linleybarba.com/ Check out our socials to keep in the loop! facebook.com/FolkloreScotland instagram.com/folklorescotland/ Folklore Scotland is a Scottish registered charity whose aim is to connect the tales of the past with the technology of today. You can visit our website and explore your local folklore at www.folklorescotland.com. If you would like to become one of our voluntary contributors or would like to get in touch, email us at info@folklorescotland.com
How We Spent the Summer | S2E1 "Where Were We?” Season two of How We Made Your Mother kicks off with a big announcement: the show has officially joined the Office Ladies Network, thanks to a friendship between Josh Radnor and Jenna Fischer. Josh and Craig reminisce about filming “Where Were We,” the How I Met Your Mother season two premiere, breaking down the challenge of picking up right after Ted and Robin's rain-soaked kiss and Marshall's heartbreak. They dig into the emotional realism of post-breakup depression, the iconic “When I get sad, I stop being sad and be awesome instead” line, and behind-the-scenes stories about George Clinton's cameo, Robin's gun joke, and Neil Patrick Harris's precision physical comedy. The episode also covers the show's evolution, season-two adjustments (including the brighter red couch), and fan questions about serialization, background actors, and hiatus memories, before closing with a touching letter from a 15-year-old fan in Germany about how HIMYM brings her hope. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
As longtime co-host of All Things Considered, Stamberg was the first woman to anchor a national news program in the U.S. People weren't used to hearing women's voices on the radio. "We were imitating men, so I was lowering my voice to sound as authoritative as I could," she said. Stamberg died Oct. 16. She spoke with Terry Gross in 1982, 1993, and 2021. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Join me for my legendary 2026 New Year's Goal Setting Party! Create the life of your dreams one year at a time.I hope you enjoyed this episode of Law of Attraction Changed My Life and it adds some value to your life! Releasing control and expectations has honestly brought me so much peace around some bigger questions in my life. I hope it does for you too. Please do share this episode with a friend who would like it or share on your socials if you feel so called to do so!By the way, do we love my new Amazon Storefront - it was EVERYTHING I love and talk about on there!(contains Amazon affiliate links/Amazon associate)You can buy my Sunday Times Bestselling book Manifest Like a Mother here.Come and find me @francescaamber & @lawofattractionchangedmylife on Instagram - I would LOVE to hear from you.Join the Book Club B*tches as we read Aligned Abundance this month. We are the UK's largest self development book club. Honestly this book club and the bad b*tches within it are my self development secret. They are the BIGGEST secret to my success and I'm in love with life long learning! Come and join us, it's not a cult, it's probably not a coven but it IS the best.You can find all my work including overnight subliminals for weight loss, wealth, fertility, beauty and confidence, success etc..as well as online masterclasses on my website, francescaamber.comThings I love that I think you'll love too...Hitting my health and body goals every day with my at home walking pad. Use code 'francescaamber' for 5% off.Try my favourite magnesium supplement for FREE with this 5 day free trial.Thank you so much for listening and I'll see you again next week,Fran xxx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, I'm joined by economist and bestselling author Emily Oster for a myth-busting conversation about the science (and sanity) of parenting. We unpack everything from picky eating and sleep training to praise, rewards, and toddler tantrums—exploring what the data actually says and what parents can finally stop worrying about. We also talk about co-sleeping, potty training, and the myth that every small decision can ruin your child.I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here: https://bit.ly/3rMLMsLSubscribe to my free newsletter for parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: draliza.substack.com Follow me on Instagram for more:@raisinggoodhumanspodcast Sponsors:Nurture Life: For 55% off your order + FREE shipping, head to NurtureLife.com/HUMANS and use codeHUMANSFlavCity: Visit Shop FlavCity.com and use code GOODHUMAN15 at checkout for 15% off your first purchaseSaks: Head to saks.comiRestore: Reverse hair loss with @iRestore lases and unlock HUGE savings on the iRestore Elite with the code RGH at https://www.irestore.com/RGH!Merit Beauty: Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.comQuince: Go to Quince.com/humans for free shipping on your order and 365-day returnsPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
DAY 40: Denouncing the Hypocrisy of the Scribes and Pharisees Welcome to the Gospel in a Year on the Catholic Sprouts Podcast. In this episode we are reading Matthew 23:1-37 To get the most out of this journey through the Gospels, we suggest you PRINT THE GOSPEL IN A YEAR NOTEBOOK. It's free and ready for you right here: http://catholicsprouts.com/the-gospels-in-a-year-on-the-catholic-sprouts-podcast Thank you for joining us! Come Lord Jesus!
In this episode of True Crime News The Sidebar Podcast: Joshua Ritter breaks down the biggest cases making headlines across the nation. He discusses firefighter Terence Crosbie's sexual assault trial, Dustin Duren claiming self-defense after allegedly slaying the mother of his children, and the fatal shooting of Julio Foolio as Alicia Andrews faces a murder trial in the rapper's death. Tweet your questions for future episodes to Joshua Ritter using the hashtag #TCNSidebar. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of Narcissist Apocalypse, Romana discusses the emotional and physical abuse she endured at the hands of her mother, the dissociation it created, and how everything effected her future abusive relationships. Of the many abusive relationships Romana endured, the most abusive one was with her first ex-husband, who became her lifelong stalker. It's a story of intergenerational trauma, emotional abuse, subjectivity, boundaries, support, attachment trauma, manipulation, coercive control, triangulation, physical abuse, sexual assault, suicide, stalking, and healing. *** CONTENT WARNING - This episode discusses sexual assault, physical abuse, strangulation, and suicide. *** If you want to be a guest on our survivor story podcast, please click here or send us an email at narcissistapocalypse@gmail.com PODCAST RECOMMENDATIONS: Perfect Prey With Dr. Christine Cocchiola | Click Here The Covert Narcissism Podcast | Click Here Bitch is a Bad Word | Click Here When Dating Hurts Podcast | Click Here If you or someone you know are experiencing abuse, you are not alone. DomesticShelters.org offers an extensive library of articles and resources that can help you make sense of what you're experiencing, connect you with local resources and find ways to heal and move forward. Visit www.domesticshelters.org to access this free resource. If you need help moving due to domestic violence, Shelter Movers may be able to help you. They operate by referral. Clients may be referred by any person of authority (social worker, doctor, police, crisis counselor, teacher, etc.) or public agency (shelter, hospital, school, workplace, place of worship, sexual assault centre, etc.). To reach them, click here. Join our new Community Social Network at https://community.narcissistapocalypse.com/ Join our Instagram Channel at https://www.instagram.com/narcissistapocalypse Join our Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpTIgjTqVJa4caNWMIAJllA Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fatima Jinnah (1893-1967) is remembered in Pakistan as the “Mother of the Nation.” Her memory is a symbol of feminism and democracy.For the past six years, we've been telling the stories of women you may or may now know– but definitely should. This month, we're bringing back our favorite Womanica episodes from across our back catalog. These are women throughout time and around the world who made their mark. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn't help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should.Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we'll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures.Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins.Follow Wonder Media Network:WebsiteInstagramTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Day 2717 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2717 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 88:1-7 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2717 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2717 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Today's Wisdom-Trek title is: The Darkest Night – A Descent into Unrelenting Anguish - A Trek Through Psalm 88:1-7 Today, we take a dramatic, almost jarring turn from the prophetic joy of our last trek. We leave the magnificent vision of Zion, the Mother of All Nations, in Psalm 87, where "All my fresh springs are in Zion," and descend into the deepest, most unrelenting anguish found anywhere in the Psalter. We're beginning our trek through Psalm 88 in the New Living Translation, focusing on its opening verses, 1-7. Psalm 88 is known as the Darkest Psalm; a lament so profound that it offers no resolution, no light, no final affirmation of hope. It is the only psalm that ends entirely in darkness, yet it remains one of the most honest and necessary expressions of faith. It's attributed to Heman the Ezrahite, a name associated with wisdom and music in the time of Solomon. The superscription describes it as a Mahlath Leannoth, which indicates a somber, deeply serious tone, perhaps even associated with affliction. This psalm gives voice to the absolute bottom of human despair, where suffering is so complete that the afflicted can only see God's hand in their misery. It's a crucial reminder that faith is not defined by perpetual happiness, but by honest persistence—crying out to God even when we believe He is the one inflicting the pain. So, let's approach this psalm with reverence and humility, recognizing that it provides a sacred space for the deepest human suffering. This first section is: A Desperate Cry for Morning and Night (Psalm 88:1-3) O Lord, God of my salvation, I cry out to you day and night. Let my prayer come right into your presence. Listen closely to my cry. For my life is full of troubles, and death is waiting for me. The psalmist begins with an immediate and relentless cry, yet he grounds his plea in a recognition of God's character: "O Lord, God of my salvation, I cry out to you day and night." Even in his anguish, he calls God the "God of my salvation," a title that acknowledges God's past role as a deliverer, even if He is not acting as one now. This is a crucial flicker of faith—he addresses God based on who God is, not merely on how God feels to him right now. But his distress is relentless, forcing him to cry out "day and night," indicating unceasing torment and insomnia. There is no rest from his misery. His appeal for divine attention is urgent: "Let my prayer come right into your presence. Listen closely to my cry." This echoes pleas we've heard before, such as in Psalm 86, where David asked God to "Bend down, O Lord, and hear my prayer," but here, the tone is more...
On this episode of Flirtations, we're joined by dating coach and entrepreneur Tisia Saffold who is going to spill the dating tea with us and share all the big sister dating advice you wish you knew, but maybe haven't heard before ... until now! Here's what you can expect from this episode: Why you can't date potential (and the mindset shift you need right now if you are) How to choose yourself vs. waiting to be “chosen” in dating How to date with detachment, manage your emotions and anxiety, and be less reactive What about asking "what are we," early on, is this a good idea? How can you know if you're being lead on? What is cheap communication currency? (and why watching your stories doesn't mean anything) What is the uno reverse card in dating? And how can you use it to gain your power back? You're dating someone and they say they need space, what to do you in this situation? Can a friends with benefits/casual physical connection become more? A message from Tisia for anyone dealing with heartbreak and MORE! What are you waiting for, let's goooo!! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! Take the FREE Flirt Styles Quiz Get INSTANT ACCESS to my anti-anxiety flirting and dating guide Download my FLIRTING AND TEXTING CONVERSATION GUIDE Grab my FREE Dating App Survival handbook Book your 1:1 Flirting Audit Ask the Flirt Coach About our guest: Meet Tisia X.V. Saffold! Pronounced "Ta-see-a" and named from her late Mother's birth story of wanting "to see her" after long hours in labor, Tisia was born and raised in Chicago and relocated to the DMV area 10 years ago. Tisia is Founder & CEO of a Tech Startup-Cleare: a compliance software for the childcare industry. In addition to her thriving Startup, Tisia is a beauty and fragrance influencer who has reached over 100M social media accounts, going viral for her unique perspective on dating and relationships. After auditioning as a single in the DMV, Tisia was casted on OWN Networks "Ready to Love" Season 5. Stream the Dear Tisia podcast and subscribe to Dear Tisia on YouTube! You can follow Tisia on Instagram and join the Secret Girls Chat + check out coaching and other offers here. About your host: Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, watch on YouTube, and stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.
Not every haunting announces itself with slamming doors and flickering lights. Some slip in quietly — using the voices you trust most. An eight-year-old boy moves into a house with his parents and grandparents. The new home feels like a dream — sunlit kitchen, a grassy yard, a long hallway leading to a quiet back bedroom. But that back room, shaded by a stand of banana trees, carries a chill in the air… and a whisper that seems to rise with the wind. At first, it's only soft murmurs. Then the whispers start calling his name — in his father's voice, then his mother's. Each time he answers, he finds them nowhere near the source of the sound. His deeply spiritual mother gives him a rule he never forgets: “If you hear us calling and we're not there, don't answer it.” Years pass, but the voices don't. They even mimic his sister's name, luring them from their rooms. One blistering summer afternoon, while showering after yardwork, he hears his father scream his name in agony… even though his father is miles away at the dump. As he races out dripping wet, a freezing breeze sweeps across his chest — a touch he still remembers decades later. This is the story of a haunting that doesn't need shadows to terrify — it just needs your name. #TrueGhostStory #RealHaunting #HauntedVoices #BananaTreeWhispers #UnseenPresence #SupernaturalVoices #CreepyTrueStory #ParanormalActivity #GhostStories #EerieEncounters #TheVoiceCalledMyName #HauntingThatFollows Love real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:
Not every haunting announces itself with slamming doors and flickering lights. Some slip in quietly — using the voices you trust most. An eight-year-old boy moves into a house with his parents and grandparents. The new home feels like a dream — sunlit kitchen, a grassy yard, a long hallway leading to a quiet back bedroom. But that back room, shaded by a stand of banana trees, carries a chill in the air… and a whisper that seems to rise with the wind. At first, it's only soft murmurs. Then the whispers start calling his name — in his father's voice, then his mother's. Each time he answers, he finds them nowhere near the source of the sound. His deeply spiritual mother gives him a rule he never forgets: “If you hear us calling and we're not there, don't answer it.” Years pass, but the voices don't. They even mimic his sister's name, luring them from their rooms. One blistering summer afternoon, while showering after yardwork, he hears his father scream his name in agony… even though his father is miles away at the dump. As he races out dripping wet, a freezing breeze sweeps across his chest — a touch he still remembers decades later. This is the story of a haunting that doesn't need shadows to terrify — it just needs your name. #TrueGhostStory #RealHaunting #HauntedVoices #BananaTreeWhispers #UnseenPresence #SupernaturalVoices #CreepyTrueStory #ParanormalActivity #GhostStories #EerieEncounters #TheVoiceCalledMyName #HauntingThatFollows Love real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:
DAY 39: The Greatest Commandment Welcome to the Gospel in a Year on the Catholic Sprouts Podcast. In this episode we are reading Matthew 22:23-45 To get the most out of this journey through the Gospels, we suggest you PRINT THE GOSPEL IN A YEAR NOTEBOOK. It's free and ready for you right here: http://catholicsprouts.com/the-gospels-in-a-year-on-the-catholic-sprouts-podcast Thank you for joining us! Come Lord Jesus!
Nine-year-old Melodee Buzzard vanishes, and her mother, Ashlee, won't talk. Investigators believe Ashlee Buzzard drove her daughter from California to Nebraska before returning alone. Plus, Vinnie Politan and his guests break down Terence Crosbie's testimony in his defense.#CourtTV - What do YOU think?Binge all episodes of #ClosingArguments here: https://www.courttv.com/trials/closing-arguments-with-vinnie-politan/Watch the full video episode here: https://youtu.be/YlrWXNJ3J2wWatch 24/7 Court TV LIVE Stream Today https://www.courttv.com/Join the Investigation Newsletter https://www.courttv.com/email/Court TV Podcast https://www.courttv.com/podcast/Join the Court TV Community to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo5E9pEhK_9kWG7-5HHcyRg/joinFOLLOW THE CASE:Facebook https://www.facebook.com/courttvTwitter/X https://twitter.com/CourtTVInstagram https://www.instagram.com/courttvnetwork/TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@courttvliveYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/COURTTVWATCH +140 FREE TRIALS IN THE COURT TV ARCHIVEhttps://www.courttv.com/trials/HOW TO FIND COURT TVhttps://www.courttv.com/where-to-watch/This episode of Closing Arguments Podcast was hosted by Vinnie Politan, produced by Kerry O'Connor and Robynn Love, and edited by Autumn Sewell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Washington Wednesday, on New York politics, presidential pardons, and the government shutdown; World Tour on labor protests in Greece; and a mother's journey from grief to purpose. Plus, a young Jimmy Carter fan, Daniel Darling on Ukraine's missing children, and the Wednesday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from the Peace of God Bible, inviting you to experience God's peace. With notes and devotions from Dr. Jeremiah Johnston. PeaceofGodBible.comFrom Covenant College, where Christian faculty equip students for their callings through hard ideas, deep questions, and meaningful work. covenant.edu/worldAnd from Missions Upside Down - a FREE, award-winning video series about Christian missions in the past, present, and into the future. You can find this free resource on RightNowMedia or at missionsupsidedown.com
The wait is over!Tori and Jennie return this Friday with an all new 9021OMG recap of Season 7 Episode 29 'Mother's Day.'See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a season of Stillness, but I'm still here. ❤️
Some hauntings scream for attention. Others linger so long they become part of the wallpaper. It began innocently enough: a new house, two young daughters, and an imaginary friend named Shawn—a boy her four-year-old claimed to see every night at the foot of her bed. But when toys began to slide across the floor, drawers slammed shut on their own, and footsteps echoed in empty rooms, it became clear Shawn wasn't just a child's game. Friends stopped visiting after glimpsing a tall dark figure in the upstairs hall. Even a local ghost-hunting team —armed with cameras, EVP recorders, and experience—fled after one night, leaving behind a single chilling photo of a glowing orb clinging to the basement ceiling. Another lost photo, captured in daylight, showed a gray, child-sized figure standing behind her daughter during a birthday party. The activity never really stopped: lights flicker, toys burst into song on their own, TVs turn off and on, and at 3 A.M. a presence often wakes the eldest daughter—sometimes lowering to one knee beside her bed as if keeping vigil. This is more than a haunting; it's a story of endurance in a home that feels alive. #TrueGhostStory #RealHaunting #ShawnTheGhost #HauntedHouse #3AMHaunting #ParanormalActivity #GhostHunters #CreepyTrueStory #SupernaturalEncounters #UnseenPresence #HauntedFamily #TerrifyingHaunting Love real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:
Some hauntings scream for attention. Others linger so long they become part of the wallpaper. It began innocently enough: a new house, two young daughters, and an imaginary friend named Shawn—a boy her four-year-old claimed to see every night at the foot of her bed. But when toys began to slide across the floor, drawers slammed shut on their own, and footsteps echoed in empty rooms, it became clear Shawn wasn't just a child's game. Friends stopped visiting after glimpsing a tall dark figure in the upstairs hall. Even a local ghost-hunting team —armed with cameras, EVP recorders, and experience—fled after one night, leaving behind a single chilling photo of a glowing orb clinging to the basement ceiling. Another lost photo, captured in daylight, showed a gray, child-sized figure standing behind her daughter during a birthday party. The activity never really stopped: lights flicker, toys burst into song on their own, TVs turn off and on, and at 3 A.M. a presence often wakes the eldest daughter—sometimes lowering to one knee beside her bed as if keeping vigil. This is more than a haunting; it's a story of endurance in a home that feels alive. #TrueGhostStory #RealHaunting #ShawnTheGhost #HauntedHouse #3AMHaunting #ParanormalActivity #GhostHunters #CreepyTrueStory #SupernaturalEncounters #UnseenPresence #HauntedFamily #TerrifyingHaunting Love real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:
John Wayne Gacy /// Part 2Episode: 106www.TrueCrimeGarage.comJohn Wayne Gacy was liked by most who knew him. He was a sharp businessman who had spent his time building up his contracting company, hosting elaborate parties, and entertaining children at hospitals. People thought of him as a generous, friendly, and hard-working man. However, there was another side that few had ever witnessed... Or at least lived to tell about. For several years John Wayne Gacy viciously tortured, raped and murdered more than thirty young men, who would later be discovered in his home and in the local river. This is the story of a community leader who was called the most hated man in America. He also has earned the name "the killer clown".Beer of the week - MILF by Mother's Brewing CompanyGarage Grade - 4 and half bottle caps out of 5 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
John Wayne Gacy /// Part 1 Episode: 105www.TrueCrimeGarage.comJohn Wayne Gacy was liked by most who knew him. He was a sharp businessman who had spent his time building up his contracting company, hosting elaborate parties, and entertaining children at hospitals. People thought of him as a generous, friendly, and hard-working man. However, there was another side that few had ever witnessed... Or at least lived to tell about. For several years John Wayne Gacy viciously tortured, raped and murdered more than thirty young men, who would later be discovered in his home and in the local river. This is the story of a community leader who was called the most hated man in America. He also has earned the name "the killer clown".Beer of the week - MILF by Mother's Brewing CompanyGarage Grade - 4 and half bottle caps out of 5 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.