Podcasts about Nelson Mandela

Second episode in a special series of the Make it Plain podcast, ‘What Would Malcolm Say?' where Kehinde Andrews explains what Malcolm's body of work tells us about what is going on in the present. Each episode will also feature a full interview with someone featured in the documentary 'Nobody Can Give You Freedom', which was independently made by Make it Plain. You can watch the entire documentary for free at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZBZyaruoGo&t=136s Film was made by Michael Ellis Films This week Kehinde introduces the episode talking about Ibrahim Traore and the importance of building a Black united front to support radical politics. He also uses Malcolm's words to warn that 'these leaders over here who are receiving the praise and pats on the back from the Americans, you can just flush the toilet and let them go right down the drain'. There is no better example of this rule than Nelson Mandela, who Malcolm would have dubbed a 'modern day Uncle Tom'. We then play the full interview with George the Poet, at the LSE Old Theatre where Malcolm gave one of his last international speeches.  Check out George's book 'Track Record' https://afroribooks.co.uk/products/track-record-me-music-and-the-war-on-blackness-by-george-the-poet-published-25th-april-2024?srsltid=AfmBOorrftYmmf51MHUgrufsx7gtN96eIfYfS2_4lMr00PX_2US3j8cT Have you heard George's Podcas? https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p07915kd/episodes/downloads Get your copy of Kehinde's book Nobody Can Give You Freedom. Out now in the UK at https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/460078/nobody-can-give-you-freedom-by-andrews-kehinde/9780241681176 Out in the US on 9th September https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/kehinde-andrews/nobody-can-give-you-freedom/9781645030706/?lens=bold-type-books Support Make it Plain: https://make-it-plain.org/support-us/ Join Harambee OBU https://www.blackunity.org.uk/ Find out about the Convention for Afrikan People: https://make-it-plain.org/convention-of-afrikan-people/  

Nelson Mandela disse que uma nação não pode ser julgada pela forma como trata os seus cidadãos mais poderosos, mas sim os mais frágeis. Como trata Portugal os seus cidadãos mais frágeis? Esta semana falamos sobre saúde mental nas prisões e sobre como o silêncio quanto ao que se passa pode, esse sim, ser verdadeiramente perigoso. Susana Almeida, médica psiquiatra do São João de Deus, o único hospital prisional do país, conta-nos como funcionam estes estabelecimentos e como a sua gestão afeta não só a vida dos prisioneiros, mas também, depois da pena cumprida, a sua vida em sociedade. Ouça aqui mais uma conversa conduzida pela médica de família Margarida Graça Santos no podcast 'Consulta Aberta'. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The years between 1865 and 1870 would bring a tangle of new challenges for the people of the south. Drought gripped the land with merciless fingers in 1865 and 1866, only to return with cruel insistence between 1868 and 1869. Livelihoods withered, landscapes turned brittle. And yet, amid the dust and desolation, there was a glint of promise on the horizon, a hint of glitter in the forecast. British Kaffraria — that volatile strip of land east of the Kei — had been the stage for repeated wars between the British Empire and the amaXhosa. By 1866, the inevitable had come to pass: the territory was formally annexed to the Cape. This was not a popular move in the Cape Parliament. Most members balked at the idea, not out of principle, but pocket — British Kaffraria was a drain on the Treasury, propped up entirely by funds from London. The Cape, in its self-conscious autonomy, wanted no part in the bill. But Attorney General William Porter reminded his fellow parliamentarians that their indignation was selective. The Cape itself, he said, could not “talk big and look big” when its own house was being kept warm with British money. Independence in name meant little, he warned, if the machinery of government still ticked by the grace of Empire coin. But before the ink was dry on the annexation, another, more immediate matter took precedence — the fate of the amaMfengu, along with the amaNgqika and amaGqunukhwebe. The structures of amaXhosa political authority had already been dismantled within British Kaffraria. Now, as the imperial tide rolled further inland, it was the amaMfengu who found themselves repositioned — this time as subjects to be moved, their loyalty rewarded not with land, but with a fresh dislocation. Soon, the area around Butterworth became an amaMfengu stronghold. Many local amaXhosa were absorbed into their ambit — politically subdued or socially assimilated. For the British, this migration had a twofold effect. It removed thousands of Black residents from British Kaffraria, freeing up land under Crown control. And it advanced a broader goal: clearing the way for the Cape Parliament to annex the territory, albeit reluctantly and under pressure from Westminster. Just to flick the future switch for a moment — Back to the Future, in 2003, a constellation of dignitaries descended on Phokeng for the coronation of Kgosi Leruo Molotlegi of the Bafokeng. That's near Rustenberg just for clarity. Among them were Nelson Mandela, Mangosuthu Buthelezi, First Lady Zanele Mbeki, and the Queen Mother of Lesotho. A drought pressed down on the land in 2003, dry and unforgiving, but the dusty heat did little to mute the occasion's quiet grandeur. For a small nation to command such presence — to draw the gaze of the region's most prominent figures — spoke to something more than mere ceremonial gravity. It hinted at a deeper, long-cultivated influence. This is the story of how the Bafokeng came to be recognised as one of South Africa's most quietly successful peoples — not by avoiding the tides of history, but by learning, early on, how to navigate them. From their dealings with the Boers and Paul Kruger, to their survival under apartheid's grip, the Bafokeng carved a path few expected — and fewer still understood. There's an almost whispered history here, a counterpoint to the dominant narrative of dispossession and defeat. The Bafokeng lived on land of consequence long before that significance was measured in ounces of platinum. It wasn't until the metal was prised from the earth beneath their feet that the rest of the country — and eventually, the world — began to pay attention. But the roots of their agency run deeper, older. They reach back to a time when Paul Kruger was still cobbling together unity among the Voortrekkers, long before his epic confrontations with the British had begun.

What would Nelson Mandela say about South Africa today? Larry O'Connor and South African entrepreneur Rob Herzov expose the hidden Soviet influence in the ANC’s National Democratic Revolution and the rise of corruption, farm attacks, and genocide-like conditions. Discover how Soviet-trained leaders have driven South Africa’s economy into the ground and learn why America’s intervention is urgently needed. SHOP OUR MERCH: https://store.townhallmedia.com/ BUY A LARRY MUG: https://store.townhallmedia.com/products/larry-mug Watch LARRY with Larry O'Connor LIVE — Monday-Thursday at 12PM Eastern on YouTube, Facebook, & Rumble! Find LARRY with Larry O'Connor wherever you get your podcasts! SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7i8F7K4fqIDmqZSIHJNhMh?si=814ce2f8478944c0&nd=1&dlsi=e799ca22e81b456f APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/larry/id1730596733 Become a Townhall VIP Member today and use promo code LARRY for 50% off: https://townhall.com/subscribe?tpcc=poddescription https://townhall.com/ https://rumble.com/c/c-5769468 https://www.facebook.com/townhallcom/ https://www.instagram.com/townhallmedia/ https://twitter.com/townhallcomBecome a Townhall VIP member with promo code "LARRY": https://townhall.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn all about how an IT Auditor uses data to solve the world's problems, one SOX control at a time.In the latest episode of the Data Podcast for Nerds, we spoke with Arpna Aggarwal, a Senior IT Auditor specializing in data governance and compliance in the healthcare industry. Arpna shares her fascinating journey to becoming an IT audit expert, highlighting the critical intersection of data analytics and IT auditing. Highlights

Is fear holding you back—or driving you forward?Monica leads a powerful Mindset Monday about transforming fear into confidence. Drawing from Marianne Williamson, Nelson Mandela, and her own real estate journey, she offers tools for affirmation, resilience, and growth. Whether you're battling fear, burnout, or indecision, this episode lights the path to personal power.

Watch This Episode On YouTubeWith the baritones of Bono and U2 as the soundtrack, the globe-trotting world of Mary Robinson requires an epic film to depict her life, and thankfully, they found the director that can deliver just that in Irish filmmaker Aoife Kelleher.Aoife gave us the brilliant film MRS ROBINSON (2024), still on its festival run. MRS ROBINSON tells the inspirational life story of change-maker Mary Robinson: Ireland's first female President, a pioneering UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the successor of Nelson Mandela as Chair of The Elders.And if all that wasn't enough, check out her film, TESTIMONY (2025), also on the festival circuit. Not sure when Aoife has time to sleep but she found time to talk with me for the podcast, and I'm delighted to share that conversation with you.In this episode, Aoife and I discuss:her biographical statement that she seeks in her work to "tell hidden truths about Ireland and Irishness" -- what does that mean? what is an Irish film?;how did she get involved in filmmaking? "my parents were primary school principals and my dad was a politician so it was like, there were a lot of debates around these kind of themes at the dinner table";her switch from law to filmmaking -- "I'd had this work experience in a legal firm that had put me off the idea of pursuing law";what did she learn from her first documentary ONE MILLION DUBLINERS (2014) that she takes away for her current film?how did she get the opportunity to make MRS ROBINSON (2024), even with pitching against many other companies -- "you really can't stress [enough] how large Mary Robinson looms in Irish society";how she made it clear they weren't creating a puff piece documentary -- "from the earliest points in the pitching process, we made it clear that we would not be doing that, and that was what she wanted, too";how she was able to license U2 and other prominent musicians as part of this film (they were going to play "Fortunate Son" by CCR in a Vietnam scene...I think it worked out better with Bono!);the climate activism portion of the film and how it resonates now versus 30 years ago;how has documentary changed in the last ten years?;what's next for her? TESTIMONY (2025) is also on the festival circuit, which means she has TWO feature films on the circuit right nowAoife's Indie Film Highlight: BLUE ROAD: THE EDNA O'BRIEN STORY (2024) dir. by Sinead O'Shea; A WANT IN HER (2024) dir. by Myrid CartenLinks:MRS ROBINSON (2024) WebsiteFollow Screen Ireland on Instagram For More Info On Irish FilmmakersWatch This Episode On YouTubeSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/first-time-go/exclusive-content

Aubrey converses with Dr Steven Mandla Zwane, a Nelson Mandela scholar and Managing Executive of Group Corporate Citizenship at Absa, about the importance of side hustles and how they can become the bedrock of our economy. THE AUBREY MASANGO SHOW BOILERPLATE The Aubrey Masango Show is presented by late night radio broadcaster Aubrey Masango. Aubrey hosts in-depth interviews on controversial political issues and chats to experts offering life advice and guidance in areas of psychology, personal finance and more. All Aubrey’s interviews are podcasted for you to catch-up and listen. Thank you for listening to this podcast from The Aubrey Masango Show. Listen live on weekdays between 20:00 and 24:00 (SA Time) to The Aubrey Masango Show broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and on CapeTalk between 20:00 and 21:00 (SA Time) https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk Find out more about the show here https://buff.ly/lzyKCv0 and get all the catch-up podcasts https://buff.ly/rT6znsn Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfet Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I'm bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you're tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best.Stephen Shedletsky is a Leadership Speaker, Author, and Coach. He has spent years helping leaders make it safe and worth it for people to speak up. Inspired by the work of Simon Sinek, Shed became the fourth person to join his team where for more than a decade, he contributed as Chief of Staff and Head of Brand Experience, Training & Development, and headed a global team of speakers and facilitators. Shed graduated from the Richard Ivey School of Business with a focus on leadership, communication, and strategy. He also received his coaching certification from The Co-Active Training Institute.I'm not sure entirely why but I've been speaking up for most of my life, but not everyone speaks up and not in every situation. I have been wondering about why that is and was thrilled when I learned that Stephen Shedletsky, aka Shed, was also deeply curious about this topic, especially in the workplace. Join us in this conversation as we explore why he felt the need to write this book now, how our environment can pressure us into being unethical, and the value of transitioning to a speak-up culture.CHAPTERS00:05:27 Why this book and why now?00:08:37 The value of transitioning to a speak-up culture00:10:22 Personality versus environment00:14:07 Combatting apathy00:15:00 Low safety but high impact00:17:00 A bad pickle00:18:59 Leaders who listen 00:21:59 Environment can pressure us into being unethical00:24:45 Human attributes rather than soft skills00:29:30 Nelson Mandela on sitting in a circle and speaking last00:32:30 Advice for speaking upLINKSFor active links, visit www.clarekumar.com/podcastSimon SinekIf Your Employees Aren't Speaking Up, Blame Company Culture, Hemant Kakkar and Subra TangiralaHemant KakkarAmy Edmonson Happy Space Podcast episode 16 - Still in Search of Excellence - with Tom PetersAlan MulallyIndra NooyiScott SonensheinNelson MandelaCraig FergusonIMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video)Simon Sinek - credit Simon Sinek websiteAmy Edmonson - credit Amy Edmonson's websiteHappy...

Send us a textThis is the last lecture I delivered in my academic career.  I discovered that I had miscalculated the end of the semester and that I had an extra class.  I did have a regular academic topic but my wife said, "You are a senior professor.  You have taught 48 years.  Your students see you as someone who has had a life time of experiences.  They will forget an academic lecture but they will not forget your personal stories.  Why not tell them about the famous political leaders you encountered during your lifetime."  So these are my reflections on 19 different people who crossed my path.  The first two are Nixon and Kennedy when they were campaigning in 1960.  The last was my friend Sibylle Laurischk, a member of the German Bundestag. Some of these stories are funny, some are affirming,  some are deadly serious.  Those discussed include Bill Clinton, Gerald Ford, George McGovern, Spiro Agnew, Jimmy Carter and Roslyn, Mayor Orville Hubbard of Dearborn, Televantelist and Presidential candidate Pat Robertson, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Nour of Jordan, Nelson Mandela, Ambassador Moallam of Syria, Rabbi Meir Kahane, the racist Israeli who was assassinated, Hanan Ashrawi, the Palestinian spokesperson, Vice President Khaddam of Syria, Shlomo Gazit, former head of israeli military intelligence, Archbishop Vigneron of Detroit, and Sibylle Laurischk. I have separate podcasts on Jimmy Carter, Orville Hubbard, Queen Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela, and Rabbi Kahana. My son Greg, who was four when we met Vice President Spiro Agnew, reminded me recently that, "I shook hands with Spiro Agnew."  I had forgotten that, but he definitely deserves his moment in the sun. This was a recorded zoom lecture that was then shared with students.  Sorry that this podcast platform will not allow zoom images. Note that I also have a lecture on Memorable Students.  That was posted back in 2020.  

We're back! Join Krystal and David as they explore the life of Nelson Mandela and his struggles to end Apartheid in South Africa. While his impact, and the effects of Apartheid, are still felt today, please note this episode is coinciding with current political trends purely by coincidence. Remember your history so you can learn from it!

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify/ In this episode of the Mindfulness Exercises Podcast, Sean Fargo sits down with Sophie Chiche—life strategist, therapist, author, TEDx speaker, and founder of several impactful ventures dedicated to helping people live with more purpose and play. Sophie shares her path from trading pencils in the sandbox as a child to building multi-million dollar businesses and facilitating sessions alongside global icons like Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. With humor and raw honesty, she dives into what it really means to do “more of what matters” in a world filled with distraction and pressure. Sean and Sophie explore how mindfulness intersects with accountability, creativity, and emotional awareness and why giving yourself permission to rest is more than just a luxury. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✔ Why doing “more of what matters” requires inner alignment, not just better productivity ✔ How mindfulness supports radical personal accountability ✔ The difference between “mental health” and true inner freedom ✔ What it means to show up in the world as your whole self ✔ How play and joy can be integrated into meaningful work Sophie brings fierce intelligence and lighthearted wisdom to this conversation, reminding us that the deepest healing often begins with being radically honest with ourselves, and each other.

Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool discusses the recent efforts to reset relations between South Africa and the United States. President Ramaphosa's recent visit to the White House was a success, the ambassador says. He reflects on the challenges faced during his tenure as ambassador, including the backlash from the Trump administration and the influence of powerful South African figures in the US. He does not regret the candid remarks he made about the state of US politics - remarks that got him expelled from the country.We touch on the legacy of apartheid that continues to affect South African society today. Ambassador Rasool reveals his own experience of living under apartheid. He first tasted teargas as a youngster in 1976 - politics is not a career choice in South Africa he says. He was imprisoned which was when he met Nelson Mandela for the first time, was placed under house arrest and suffered like all non-white South Africans under apartheid. His experiences shaped his views on supremacy and justice.We also discuss the group of wealthy white South Africans who've come to be known as the Paypal Mafia and the influence they are having on U.S policy towards South Africa. How central is Elon Musk's Starlink satellite company to Pretoria's relationship with Washington? Abassador Rasool says that accepting Starlink is integral to Washington's dealing with African countries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, the Cups head to South Africa, discussing President Nelson Mandela. An activist working to abolish apartheid, he became South Africa's first president. Listen now to find out all we know about this historical figure and how they factor into Assassin's Creed! Now introducing Assassin's Creed Lorecast merch for everyone! Check it out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠our shop!⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to chime in on the conversation? You can become a patron at the Master Assassin tier or higher and join us ON THE SHOW! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/aclorecast⁠⁠⁠⁠ We've launched merch! Become a patron at the Assassin tier or higher to get these exclusive rewards! Check out our website! ⁠⁠⁠⁠cupspodcasting.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you enjoyed our podcast, give us a rating and review on Apple and/or Spotify! We'll even read your review out on the show! Join our The Cups Podcasts discord server where we dive deeep into all video game discussions. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/fxR2WVDNhP⁠⁠⁠⁠ Come hang out on the Robots Radio discord server to join the fun! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/AW5Wc4kgZb⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you love our merch, check out the artist behind the designs! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://libanezink.wixsite.com/libanezart⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you love our music, check out the musician behind our theme! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pipeman Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠ You can also find us on Twitter at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠⁠⁠⁠aclorecast⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ and you can dm us or email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠assassinscreedlorecast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pipeman Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website designed by ⁠⁠⁠⁠H-I-T Media Solutions⁠⁠⁠⁠ Merch designed by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Lauren Ibañez Ink⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marc Beckman is the author of Some Future Day, the Host of Some Future Day podcast, and the CEO of the award-winning advertising agency DMA United. He has executed campaigns for the NBA, Pepsi, Sony, Warner Bros. Entertainment, NARS, Washington, DC, Nelson Mandela, Gucci, and MoMA. Beckman embraces emerging technology to augment campaigns, including artificial intelligence (AI), spatial computing, and blockchain.Marc's book Some Future Day:https://www.amazon.com/Some-Future-Day-Change-Everything/dp/1648210775To watch the Full Cornerstone Forum: https://open.substack.com/pub/shaunnewmanpodcastGet your voice heard: Text Shaun 587-217-8500Silver Gold Bull Links:Website: https://silvergoldbull.ca/Email: SNP@silvergoldbull.comText Grahame: (587) 441-9100Bow Valley Credit UnionWebsite: www.BowValleycu.comEmail: welcome@BowValleycu.com Use the code “SNP” on all ordersProphet River Links:Website: store.prophetriver.com/Email: SNP@prophetriver.com

Like the Hugh Masekela song “Bring Him Back Home,” which helped free Nelson Mandela from 27 years in prison, the Earth needs to be loved and returned to the forefront of our personal lives, our civic decisions, and our hope for Peace. Give the Earth so much Love that the imagination of our home becomes where we live again. With the Earth as our leader, we can hallucinate back to what's real. Imagine our way out of violent products. Yes, the Earth gives us love and asks that we continue life, creating life that, in turn, continues to love and live. Life wants life to live. But the Earth is also powerfully political, giving us Love so that we have natural world's agent of change. Love gives us the power to be radical. And here at the Sixth Extinction, we need to be radical. Oh, do we ever. Radical - right now.

Las declaraciones sin pruebas y falsas de Donald Trump sobre que supuestamente se está perpetrando un "genocidio blanco" en Sudáfrica han levantado mucha polémica. Según el mandatario estadounidense, la población afrikáner blanca de ese país estaría siendo perseguida, pero la historia demuestra que fueron ellos los que persiguieron a la población negra por décadas y que, en la actualidad, el sistema democrático que rige en Sudáfrica es inclusivo con todos gracias a la lucha que protagonizó Nelson Mandela contra el apartheid durante toda su vida.

Bara inbillning eller ett människoliv som oförklarligt gått förlorat? Lyssna på alla avsnitt i Sveriges Radio Play. Mandelaeffekten är mytomspunnen och ofta omdiskuterad, även i Creepypodden. Men vilket är dess största offer? Är det Nelson Mandela, Berenstain Bears eller Arne Hegerfors? Eller är det i själva verket en blyg flicka i en skolklass i en liten stad någonstans i USA? Att döma av veckans avsnitt av Creepypodden är svaret glasklart – en historia uppläst av Ludvig Josephson och skriven av D.D. Howard som finns att läsa i original på Creepypasta.com. Creepypodden är producerad av Ludvig Josephson, som också gjorde musiken i det här avsnittet. Vill du läsa fler creepypastor kan klicka dig runt bland våra tidigare avsnitt, eller följa oss på Facebook eller Instagram där vi heter Creepypodden. Mejla oss gärna med tips på bra creepypastor eller med egna skrämmande upplevelser: creepypodden@sverigesradio.se.

 Let's stop the cycle of contempt and learn to disagree better! In this video, we discuss how to fix our broken conversations and bridge the divide in our nation.Are we really more divided than ever—or just worse at disagreeing?In this episode of An Ounce, we explore how contempt has crept into every corner of modern life—from relationships and work meetings to dinner tables and online comment sections—and why it's killing our ability to communicate. You'll hear insights from Stoic philosophers, historical figures like Lincoln and Mandela, and even modern research on what actually ends relationships (hint: it's not yelling).________________________________________⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro01:16 – Conversation That Broke Down02:41 – The Real Enemy03:49 – In the Living Room – Relationships04:40 – The Family Table – Political Polarization at Home05:31 – At Work06:27 – Online: Public Contempt Preformed for Audience07:33 – The Temptation of Contempt08:33 – Why Civility Isn't Enough09:16 – The Better Way10:43 – How Grace Stops Contempt11:25 – Challenge12:32 – An Ounce________________________________________

Today we welcome quilt artist Barbara Ann McCraw. Actually…we welcome her back as we met Barbara in person and interviewed her at the National Quilt Museum in Paducah at her exhibit Life Stories during Quilt Week in 2024. While our conversation was a component of a compilation of stories…we felt that she had so much more to share, hence she joins us today. Barbara grew up on the south side of Chicago and later attended Illinois State University where she earned a degree in English. In 1986 she earned a degree in medical technology and worked at Texas Woman's Univrsity, University of North Texas and UT Southwestern Medical center where  she became pathology supervisor until her retirement in 2000. Barbara's quilts have won numerous awards and many now make their home in private collections. They have been featured in multiple publications and featured in a documentary and a CBS television human interest story.In 2012 Barbara was invited to teach in Tanzania, Africa and two years later she returned there to participate in a quilt honoring Nelson Mandella. Barbara gives large credit for her success to her husband Erine who has helped her both personally and professionally throughout her quilting career. Barbara and Ernie make their home in Texas. (2:20) Barbara talks about how she learned to sew and who was her influence. A very loud, rambunctious family had a large part in this! (4:55) Learn about Barbara's mother and more about her influence on Barbara's sewing, leading with courage and unconditional love. (6:35) Barbara's career started out using her English. A pregnancy changed course for her. She always wanted to wear a lab coat…and wanted to be a doctor and learned that medical technology was really her thing. So off she went to become a pathologist/medical technologist.  (10:03) So how did Barbara decide to learn to quilt? A move to Texas and missing her mom led the way. Learn about her interactions with the Newcomers Club in Carolton, TX and how this influenced her path(11:50) What was her first quilt? Learn that here.(12:35) The Family Reunion Quilt is one of her finest. She shares the story of this wonderful creation…and the dream that started it all. Her family history story is quite amazing. (18:10) Barbara talks openly about living through many race-based issues. She addresses this through her Loving Quilt. Hear this story and the impact this creation has had. She talks about her husband Ernie, their marriage and how Mildred and Richard Loving had an impact on them. (23:39) Learn more about Ernie McCraw, his influence on Barbara's career and the secret to their 45-year marriage.  (28:52) Learn about Barbara's  trips to Tanzania and her work on the Nelson Mandela quilt. (34:12) In 1995 Barbara became involved in Aids Services of North Texas. Because of this, she joined a sewing group that was working on the Names Project…creating quilt blocks made for families of those who passed from Aids. Learn why these quilts were 3'x6'. (38:05) How has quilting influenced her life and why is it so special to her? Belonging is the foundation of all of this. (39:45) What's next for Barbara and what's her dream? Well, there's this special quilt she's working on…! (41:40) It there any question I didn't ask? (42:45) What's the best way to reach Barbara? www.quiltasart.com.  Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today's and all of our Guests.

La photo est en couverture des journaux en Afrique du Sud : on y voit le président américain Donald Trump et son homologue sud-africain, Cyril Ramaphosa, assis sur les fauteuils jaunes du Bureau ovale de la Maison-Blanche, devant les journalistes et les caméras. Et à voir leurs mouvements de mains, la discussion est animée…Le quotidien sud-africain Cape Times relate la scène : « Ramaphosa est arrivé en disant qu'il voulait discuter du commerce et des minerais rares. La réunion a débuté de manière cordiale. Trump et lui ont commencé à discuter golf. D'ailleurs, deux champions de golf sud-africains Ernie Els et Retief Goosen étaient présents dans la délégation de Ramaphosa. Mais la réunion a rapidement tourné au vinaigre, pointe Cape Times. Trump a montré une vidéo et des documents, comme prétendues preuves de ses affirmations infondées selon lesquelles les Sud-Africains blancs seraient persécutés et leurs terres confisquées ».Des allégations déjà formulées par le président américain ces derniers mois et démenties par l'Afrique du Sud. Cyril Ramaphosa s'est défendu, a démenti une nouvelle fois…Mais, constate le Mail & Guardian, autre média sud-africain, « les discussions commerciales ont été reléguées au second plan ».Et Cape Times de parler de véritable « embuscade tendue par Trump, comme celle dont avait été victime le président ukrainien Volodymyr Zelensky, en février dernier ».Trop timoré ?The Star, autre quotidien sud-africain s'en prend à… Cyril Ramaphosa. « L'occasion ratée de Ramaphosa de repositionner l'Afrique du Sud comme centre d'affaires stratégique de l'Afrique », titre le journal. The Star qui dénonce « l'inertie diplomatique » du président sud-africain : « Ramaphosa a manqué une occasion en or : celle de rétablir les faits avec fermeté et audace. Il ne s'agissait pas seulement de dire la vérité sur les statistiques de la criminalité rurale ou la réforme agraire. Il s'agissait de dire au monde ce qu'est l'Afrique du Sud aujourd'hui – et, plus important encore, ce qu'elle aspire à être. L'Afrique du Sud ne s'effondre pas sous les violences raciales, s'exclame The Star. Elle abrite en réalité plus de 600 entreprises américaines prospères dans divers secteurs, de la finance à l'énergie, en passant par l'industrie manufacturière et les technologies de l'information. Elle abrite les marchés financiers les plus performants du continent africain et un système judiciaire qui, bien qu'imparfait, demeure indépendant et respecté. Pourtant, rien de tout cela n'a été exprimé sous les projecteurs du monde entier ».Il est vrai que Cyril Ramaphosa s'est défendu mollement, pointe Le Monde Afrique à Paris : « il a tenté de désamorcer la charge explosive de Trump de façon indirecte, par le sourire, par l'évocation de Nelson Mandela et de la diversité de la coalition au pouvoir. Il a évoqué la Constitution, protégeant les droits de tout propriétaire terrien. Il n'a pas nié l'ampleur de la criminalité qui ravage l'Afrique du Sud. Mais il n'a pas pris une position de principe nette, pour nier tout génocide des Afrikaners et appeler ce mensonge par son nom. Par moments, il se frottait les paumes des mains, ne sachant plus quoi faire pour défendre l'honneur national sans aggraver la situation ».Des faits travestis…Le Monde Afrique répond également aux allégations de Donald Trump qui a été jusqu'à parler, donc, de génocide : « les meurtres dans les fermes isolées sont une réalité en Afrique du Sud, reconnait le journal. Mais ils ne représentent qu'une fraction des homicides perpétrés dans le pays, l'un des plus violents au monde. Plus de 27 000 personnes ont ainsi été tuées entre mars 2023 et mars 2024. Par comparaison, en moyenne, au cours de la décennie écoulée, une cinquantaine de meurtres ont lieu chaque année dans des fermes. Parmi les victimes, des agriculteurs blancs, mais pas exclusivement. De nombreux travailleurs agricoles ou des vigiles noirs comptent également parmi les victimes ».Commentaire du Monde Afrique : « toutefois, la réalité, dans ses nuances, a peu de chances de pénétrer le monde MAGA ».Springbok vs pitbull…Enfin, L'Observateur Paalga au Burkina caricature les deux présidents avec cette formule : « le springbok et le pitbull de la Maison-Blanche ».L'Observateur qui n'est guère surpris : « les sujets qui fâchent étaient si nombreux qu'on se demande comment le président sud-africain aurait pu s'y prendre pour déminer ce terrain quand on connaît la brutalité avec laquelle Donald Trump imprime ses relations avec les autres pays. Mais comme avec le locataire de la Maison-Blanche, tout finit toujours autour du transactionnel, Ramaphosa n'aura pas d'autres choix que de lui offrir des facilités dans l'exploitation des minerais rares (diamant, manganèse, platine…) dont le pays de Mandela regorge ».

These days, with everyone multitasking and constantly plugged in, real connection can feel rare. But what if the key to resilience and healthy relationships wasn't about talking more, but listening better? In a world filled with noise, distraction, and division, could the simple act of truly listening be the key to deeper connection, better mental health, and greater understanding—even across opposing viewpoints? In this powerful and timely episode, Chester and Adrian are joined by journalist and workplace mediator Emily Kasriel, whose upcoming book, Deep Listening, explores how we can transform our relationships by listening not just to others—but also to ourselves.Emily shares her 8-step method rooted in science and real-world examples—from Nelson Mandela's reconciliation efforts to Indigenous listening rituals—showing how active listening can ease anxiety, bridge divides, and foster psychological safety at work and at home.What You'll Learn:Why deep listening is a radical act in today's distracted worldHow leaders can balance empathy and efficiency in the workplaceThe surprising benefits of listening to your "foes"How self-reflection and curiosity make you a better listenerWhy listening ≠ agreement—and how to hold boundaries while staying presentA real-world story from Latvia that illustrates deep listening's power in divided communitiesNotable Quotes:“We rarely listen to understand. We listen to respond.” – Emily Kasriel “Listening does not signal agreement. It signals respect.” – Emily Kasriel “Being curious is the gateway to empathy and connection.” – Adrian GostickSupport the showFor a weekly dose of gratitude from Chester Elton, text GRATITUDE to 908-460-2820.Until next week, we hope you find peace & calm in a world that often is a sea of anxiety.If you love this podcast, please share it and leave a 5-star rating! If you feel inspired, we invite you to come on over to The Culture Works where we share resources and tools for you to build a high-performing culture where you work.Your hosts, Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton have spent over two decades helping clients around the world engage their employees on strategy, vision and values. They provide real solutions for leaders looking to manage change, drive innovation and build high performance cultures and teams. They are authors of award-winning Wall Street Journal & New York Times bestsellers All In, The Carrot Principle, Leading with Gratitude, & Anxiety at Work. Their books have been translated into 30 languages and have sold more than 1.5 million copies. Visit The Culture Works for a free Chapter 1 download of Anxiety at Work.Learn more about their Executive Coaching at The Cultur...

Cariad Lloyd is an actor, comedian and writer (and one of our faves), who has been talking about grief since the death of her father when she was 15. She's turned her experiences into an award-winning podcast, Griefcast, and a bestselling book, You Are Not Alone. She's now written a children's book, Where Did She Go?, which aims to improve how we talk about death with children. Jen catches up with Cariad to chat about youngsters and grief, normalising those conversations, and fascinations with Nelson Mandela. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stu Levitan interviews former U.S. Ambassador to Norway (1993-1997) Tom Loftus about his new book, Mission to Oslo, Dancing with the Queen, Dealmaking with the Russians, Shaping History (Mineral Point: Little Creek Press, 2024).Amb. Loftus served during a pivotal period in diplomatic and military history, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. It was a time of optimism, but it was fraught with uncertainty, a time of particular concern in neighboring Norway. Amb. Loftus's success helping forge the agreement among the U.S., Norway and the new Russia to start the clean-up of the nuclear waste the former Soviet Union had dumped for decades into the Arctic Ocean (a toxic legacy of its submarine fleet just across the border in Murmansk) is largely why the King of Norway bestowed upon him the Grand Cross, the highest order of the Norwegian Order of Merit, for outstanding service in the interest of Norway. Amb. Loftus also did a major solid for the incoming president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, solving a looming trade crisis that saved his textile industry.Among the leading supporting players in this engaging and perceptive account are three powerful and impressive women:  First Lady Hilary Clinton, UW Chancellor Donna Shalala, and Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland, whose later selection as director general of the World Health Organization Amb. Loftus helped secure. There's also an inside account of his close relationship with Bill Clinton, whose presidential nomination he helped secure by leading his Wisconsin primary campaign in 1992.Grandson of Norwegian immigrants, Amb. Loftus writes and speaks with emotion and insight into the people and places of his ancestral homeland. He also gives a real sense of diplomatic nitty-gritty, from celebrating Syttende Mai with Their Majesties the King and Queen to posing for photos with Yassir Arafat.Amb. Loftus served in the Wisconsin State Assembly from 1977 to 1991, the final eight years as its speaker — the longest any Democrat has ever held that post. In 1990, he was the Democratic nominee for governor, finishing second behind Governor Tommy Thompson, who, 30 years later, as interim president of the University of Wisconsin system, would hire him as a senior policy advisor. By then, Amb. Loftus had already had a close relationship with the UW, graduating from the UW Whitewater, earning his master's from the UW Madison's La Follette School of Public Affairs, and serving on the Board of Regents from 2005 to 2011.

Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:17532056201798502,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-9437-3289"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");pt> Click On Picture To See Larger PictureThe Fed continually is pushing the narrative that there is going to be a supply shock. Is the Fed waiting for a [FF] event, is this why they are holding the rate high and not dropping it. The economic transition is working, the supply shock is not happening. The [DS] is in a deep panic, they are now sending messages to assassinate Trump or have a [FF]. The [DS] is losing the legal fight and they are running out of ammunition, they will try to play and threaten the SC next, this is final test. If the SC fails, congress must step in, if all else fails the military will be the only way. The RINOs did not pass Trump's big beautiful bill, they are being exposed for the midterms.   Economy US Fed chair warns of potential for 'more persistent' supply shocks Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Thursday warned of the possibility of "more persistent" supply shocks, as US central bankers met for talks against a backdrop of uncertainty kicked up by Donald Trump's tariff rollout."We may be entering a period of more frequent, and potentially more persistent, supply shocks -- a difficult challenge for the economy and for central banks," Powell told his colleagues in Washington, according to prepared remarks.  Source:  economictimes.indiatimes.com  https://twitter.com/charliekirk11/status/1923210595123462648 (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:18510697282300316,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-8599-9832"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");  bank, "There is little evidence, so far, that tariffs are inflationary. Instead profit margins are being squeezed." https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1922627445674418620 U.S. Import Prices Rose in April, Suggesting No Tariff Supply Shock Import prices ticked up slightly in April, driven by higher costs for nonfuel goods even as fuel prices continued to slide, according to data released Friday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Trump administration's 10 percent universal tariff and additional targeted duties on over 60 countries were announced on April 2 and went into effect on April 5. The modest rise in import prices, particularly outside the fuel category, suggests that the duties have not significantly deterred U.S. purchases of foreign-made goods.   The increase in nonfuel goods prices, combined with steady import volumes, may indicate that tariff-related costs are being absorbed without major shifts in buying behavior, at least so far. source: breitbart.com   https://twitter.com/BehizyTweets/status/1923409184030429667    Biden and the Democrats gave us. Thank you for your attention to this matter!   Political/Rights https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumpJr/status/1923000897992380724 https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1922990397136990647  the great Nelson Mandela who sought to have all races treated equally in South Africa.   https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumpJr/status/1922752230781833431 Yet, every Democrat on the committee opposed the bill, with even Democrats not on the committee blasting the proposal to block illegal aliens from the program.  https://twitter.com/MrAndyNgo/status/1923052139711955467   BREAKING: Justice Department to Announce Charges against Democrat Rep LaMonica McIver...

The Search for Fulfillment is a new short series released each Friday where we uncover lessons of the greatest minds to help you live with purpose, passion, and peace. In today's episode, Brian asks, "What is one area of your life where you can focus on progress instead of perfection... And how might that shift bring you greater fulfillment?" Enjoy Episode 17 of The Search for Fulfillment. #BeNEXT

Have you ever owned something so rare, so priceless, that it feels like a secret superpower? Maybe a signed copy of your favorite book… or a piece of history in your hands—like a Nelson Mandela signature. Maybe it’s a letter from a Queen Elizabeth. These things—they’re irreplaceable. They're personal treasures that carry stories, legacy, and identity. So lets ask you: What’s your Mandela signature? What do you own that’s truly one-of-a-kind?"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We Start at the EndToday's outro track is the COVID-era reboot of a classic Peter Gabriel track, featuring Yo-Yo Ma, Angelique Kidjo, and many more. The reason will become clear.In this episode of Wicked Problems, we sat down with Charles Perry, director of Sustainable Future for All, at the Conduit Club in London.A veteran in the climate and sustainability space, Charles has changed his views from evolution to revolution - a climate revolution akin to the Industrial Revolution. He reflects on his experiences spearheading renewable initiatives at BP, working with Al Gore, and advocating for justice-integrated environmental concerns.What set him on the path? A realisation once he left apartheid South Africa for university that the things he was taught were not necessarily how the world really was. That moment took him to anti-apartheid activism in South Africa and its democratic transition to climate advocacy and the need for a different paradigm on energy.Wicked Problems is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.His direction of travel has been clear for a while - in that climate isn't (just) a tech issue, but one as inextricably tied up with justice as the move was from slavery to fossil fuels.That kind of talk has gotten Charles into some bother before. Like his 2012 BBC interview with Jon Sopel that we clip in the ep.The conversation also explores Perry's views on the moral imperatives of climate action, the obstacles posed by current political and economic systems, and the roles of influential leaders like Nelson Mandela and Al Gore in shaping his philosophy on sustainability.00:00 The Need for a New Revolution00:43 Introduction to Charles Perry01:02 Challenges in Climate Tech and Sustainability01:15 Charles Perry's Journey and Career01:52 Reflections on Working with BP and Al Gore10:58 The Intersection of Justice and Environmental Concerns18:47 The Unstoppable Sustainability Movement21:46 The Future of Energy and Sustainability25:19 Final Thoughts and Inspirations29:54 Conclusion and Call to ActionAll the OutrosThanks for listening. To support us and go ad-free check out wickedproblems.earth or just send us a brown envelope of unmarked bills. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What kind of leadership legacy can you build from a prison cell? In this episode, we examine Nelson Mandela's 27-year imprisonment and how he used rhythm, reflection, and relationship to lead without authority. Explore how to bring clarity and culture to your team—even when you feel powerless to change your situation.Conversation Prompts:Have you ever led without a title or formal authority?What daily habits or rhythms give your team a sense of stability?How do you maintain clarity and purpose when the system around you feels resistant?Series: Leading Through the Fog: Thriving Amid Uncertainty and ChangeEpisode 4 of 4

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Why Do People Reject Jesus?”Subtitle: Scripture: John 7:1-52 Isaiah 55:1-7Jeremiah 2:13Deuteronomy 18:15-18, Acts 3:20-22Matthew 10:34-35Look for the drama in scriptureBottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONSome people in history seem to split the world in two. Say their name, and you immediately stir debate. Martin Luther King Jr.—hero of justice or dangerous disruptor? Galileo—scientific genius or arrogant heretic? Nelson Mandela, Joan of Arc, Malcolm X—each one beloved by some, opposed by others. But history's most polarizing figure? Jesus. No one sparked more debate, division, or devotion. And in John 7, we see that clearly. The question is: Why do people reject Him—and could we be doing the same?John Bunyan knew all about that and wrote, "There was a man, the world did think him mad, the more he gave away, the more he had."Feast of Tabernacles...Originally a harvest festival coming at the end of the last major harvest of the year (grapes). They celebrated God who brought the rain.Became a celebration of God's deliverance of Israel through the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness where God had to supernaturally supply them water for the whole nation in the desert.It had eschatological hopesFor the restoration of the nation of IsraelFor the ingathering of all nations under GodJesus presents himself as God's agent to make these end time events a reality. He does this as the source of life--abundant (like being celebrated during this festival) and eternal (like living water).Bottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life.In his last 6 months, Jesus enters Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles surrounded by confusion, debate and division over who he is and why he matters. This is the context around his famous teaching about the Holy Spirit's role when he ascends and why he's called living water. OUTLINE (input from ChatGPT)1. Some reject Jesus because He doesn't follow their expectations.(John 7:1–10)Jesus' own brothers didn't believe because He didn't fit their agenda or timeline.We still wrestle with disappointment or control when Jesus won't do what we want, when we want.2. Some reject Jesus because His truth exposes their hypocrisy.(John 7:11–24)Jesus confronts those judging Him wrongly, especially for healing on the Sabbath.We resist truth when it challenges our comfort, image, or self-righteousness.3. Some reject Jesus because of assumptions and incomplete knowledge.(John 7:25–36)The crowd “knows” where Jesus is from and assumes He can't be the Christ.Spiritual blindness often comes from thinking we already understand everything.4. Some reject Jesus because they fear people more than God.(John 7:40–52)Division rises. Leaders pressure, mock, and dismiss. Nicodemus is silenced.Following Jesus means risking disapproval—but silence is a choice too.5. But Jesus still calls: If you're thirsty, come to Me and drink.(John 7:37–39)On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus invites all to receive living water—the Holy Spirit.Rejection isn't the end of the story. Jesus still offers Himself to anyone willing to come in faith.CONCLUSION Bottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life."For decades one of the first places immigrants to America landed was Ellis Island. They came hoping for a better life, longing for a chance to find happiness. Near Ellis Island was a statue, and the statue was an invitation. A poem by Emma Lazarus captured the invitation:"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"What a beautiful invitation. "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses." Jesus extends a better invitation. "Come, weary and broken. Come, thirsty and dying. Come to me and find life."" -Carter, p. 181The Lion"How are we to drink this water? Although the offer is free and open to all, there are yet some terms to be met. C. S. Lewis in his children's novel The Silver Chair puts his finger on this in the clearest of terms. Jill, seeing a lion, is scared out of her wits and runs into the forest. She runs so hard that she wears herself out and is just about to die of thirst, or so she thinks, when she hears the gurgling of a brook in the distance. She approaches it and is almost ready to go to the brook when on the grass before her is the same lion."Are you not thirsty?" said the Lion."I'm dying of thirst," said Jill."Then drink, " said the Lion."May I— could I-would you mind going away while I do?" said Jill.The Lion answered this only by a look and a very low growl. And as Jill gazed at its motionless bulk, she realized that she might as well have asked the whole mountain to move aside for her convenience. The delicious rippling noise of the stream was driving her nearly frantic."Will you promise not to — do anything to me, if I do come?" said Jill."I make no promise,'" said the Lion.Jill was so thirsty now that, without noticing it, she had come a step nearer."Do you eat girls?" she said. "I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and em-perors, cities and realms," said the Lion. It didn't say this as if it were boasting, nor as if it were sorry, nor as if it were angry. It just said it."I daren't come and drink," said Jill."Then you will die of thirst," said the Lion."Oh dear!" said Jill, coming another step nearer."I suppose I must go and look for another stream then.""There is no other stream," said the Lion.It never occurred to Jill to disbelieve the Lion —no one who had seen his stern face could do that-and her mind suddenly made itself up. It was the worst thing she had ever had to do, but she went forward to the stream, knelt down, and began scooping up water in her hand. It was the coldest, most refreshing water she had ever tasted.Do you see what Lewis is saying? When you come to the water, you are coming to a Lion, you must come on the Lion's terms, and you have to yield yourself by faith in order to get the water. Some of us need to realize that we are thirsty, that we need that water so badly that we are going to die without it. We need to step out on faith, yielding to the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and receive the water of eternal life.INVITATIONWhat about you?Are you paralyzed by the confusion, division and debate over who Jesus is and what he came to do?““Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it's all free! Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food. “Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David. See how I used him to display my power among the peoples. I made him a leader among the nations. You also will command nations you do not know, and peoples unknown to you will come running to obey, because I, the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious.” Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.”‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭1‬-‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESJesus' brothers believed in Jesus but not the biblical Jesus; we see this all the timeJesus recognized that his brothers didn't believe in him as the Messiah yet though they'd lived with him for 30+ years; never sinned; Mary knowing who he was; favorite son; perfect son; resentment and sibling rivalry aboundsDoes Jesus divide people? (Yes)Family can be the toughest mission fieldFamily misunderstands when they don't believe in the biblical JesusReligious leaders miss the leader of their religion due to their self-righteousness, ambition and unbelief"Christ did not want to bring division. But because of the sinfulness of our hearts, because of our fallenness, because of our unwillingness to repent and bow to him, the Prince of Peace is Christ the Divider.When snow descends upon the Continental Divide, it melts and flows off either to the west or to the east, never to meet again. Christ is the continental divide in our lives. We will either go up with the morning stars or, to use Eliot's phrase, join the valley of the dying stars. Christ brings division to everyday life." -Hughes, p. 226Water"On the seven days of the Feast, a golden flagon was filled with water from the pool of Siloam and was carried in a procession led by the High Priest back to the temple. As the procession approached the watergate on the south side of the inner court three blasts from the shôphar - a trumpet connected with joyful occasions - were sounded. While the pilgrims watched, the priests processed around the altar with the flagon, the temple choir singing the Hallel (Pss. 113 - 118). When the choir reached Psalm 118, every male pilgrim shook a lulab (willow and myrtle twigs tied with palm) in his right hand, while his left raised a piece of citrus fruit (a sign of the ingathered harvest), and all cried 'Give thanks to the LORD!' three times. The water was offered to God at the time of the morning sacrifice, along with the daily drink-offering (of wine). The wine and the water were poured into their respective silver bowls, and then poured out before the LORD. Moreover, these ceremonies of the Feast of Tabernacles were related in Jewish thought both to the LorD's provision of water in the desert and to the Lord's pouring out of the Spirit in the last days. Pouring at the Feast of Tabernacles refers symbolically to the messianic age in which a stream from the sacred rock would flow over the whole earth." -Carson, p. 321-322"In general terms, then, Jesus' pronouncement is clear: he is the fulfil-ment of all that the Feast of Tabernacles anticipated." -Carson, p. 322OUTLINESee aboveQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Increasingly tense relations between South Africa and the United States have been marked by trade threats, diplomatic expulsions and deepening divisions over global conflicts. But despite the pressure, South Africa is not backing down on key principles. Foreign Affairs Minister Ronald Lamola tells RFI their “dynamic and evolving” relationship must be nurtured – yet he insists not everything can be negotiated.  Relations have been turbulent since Donald Trump took office in January. Cooperation on trade, health, defence and diplomacy has suffered after several of Trump's executive orders.The US is South Africa's second largest trading partner, but exports to America now face 30 percent tariffs.On 7 February, Trump issued an executive order to resettle white South African refugees, saying the country's leaders were doing “some terrible things, horrible things”.US media say the first group of Afrikaner (white South Africans) "refugees" is due to arrive as from 12 May. South Africa expressed its "concerns" to the United States on 9 May and reiterated that "allegations of discrimination are unfounded".On 14 April, South Africa named former deputy Finance Minister Mcebesi Jonas as its special envoy to Washington after ambassador Ebrahim Rasool was expelled.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Rasool was “no longer welcome” in America, calling him “a race-baiting politician who hates America” and Trump.President Cyril Ramaphosa and Trump spoke on the phone on 24 April in what was described as a cordial exchange. Trump invited Ramaphosa to Washington and suggested he “bring the golfers over”.South Africa unites against Trump as US freezes aid over land reformRFI: Where are we at today with the relationship between South Africa and the United States?Ronald Lamola: The relationship has always been dynamic and evolving, obviously with more challenges since the election of President Trump, particularly with the number of executive orders that are not based on any facts or truths.In South Africa, the expropriation bills are aimed at redressing the imbalances of the past to ensure there is equitable distribution of all the resources of our country. This is done in line with the constitution, which has got sufficient safeguards against any arbitrary use of power by the executive or by the state.It is in that context that we continue to engage with Washington because the relationship remains important. Washington is our strategic trading partner, the second biggest after China.RFI: Is there more going on behind the scenes than we can see? Are relations improving despite the tensions?Ronald Lamola: Indeed, there are still challenges, but we continue to engage at a diplomatic level.International Court of Justice hears South Africa's genocide case against IsraelRFI: Is South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice being used as a bargaining chip?Ronald Lamola: No, it cannot be used as a bargaining chip. This is a matter of principle.Our history is linked to that of Palestine and, as Nelson Mandela said, the struggle of South Africa is not complete until the Palestinian people are also free. There has been propaganda that Iran or Hamas is paying for these legal fees.You can check the departmental websites where all reports are recorded. It is the South African government tax money that is paying for this case. There is no other hidden hand paying for the case.RFI: Can you imagine a scenario where the United States might ask South Africa to drop the case against Israel in order to continue enjoying good relations with Washington?Ronald Lamola: Unfortunately, I cannot imagine things that I don't know.RFI: What would South Africa's position be if that were to happen?Ronald Lamola: I don't want to speculate about anything or any scenarios. We deal with what is in front of us.As you are aware, in one of the executive orders, this issue of the case has been raised and, also in some of the bills that are before Congress. But this is a matter of principle. It's based on the Genocide Convention. Principles cannot be negotiated.RFI: Where does the case at the ICJ stand now?Ronald Lamola: We are waiting for Israel to respond. As you are aware, we filed a memorial last year in June. The case has to take its normal course. The court must decide because the future of the world is dependent on certainty, on a rules-based international order, which is based on international law.We have to ensure that international law is respected by all. The might cannot always be right.RFI: South Africa says it will not cut ties with historic allies. President Ramaphosa said that South Africa will not be bullied. Is there a price to pay for standing by your principles?​​​​​​Ronald Lamola: Nations must respect and abide by the rule of law. We are signatories to the Genocide Convention. We will respect and live by the UN Charter. Obviously, there will be pain that may come with it, but this is the pain we need to pay for the people of the world.South Africa is a product of solidarity. We would not be free if it was not for the people of the world who suffered and stood in solidarity with us. So, we owe it to the people of the world to ensure that the UN Conventions and the UN Charter are protected and defended.EU flags stronger partnership with South Africa with €4.7bn investmentRFI: The US is South Africa's second largest trading partner. How can your country absorb the blow of 30 percent tariffs, if they go through by mid-July?Obviously, it is going to be very difficult and damaging to our economy. We see it also as an opportunity for us to engage in bilateral agreements with the US that are mutually beneficial.There are South African businesses invested in the US, and also US businesses invested in our country. About 601 companies from the US have invested in South Africa, responsible for more than 150,000 jobs in our country.It is an important dynamic relationship, which has also brought a lot of technology in our country and improved our economy.But, we also have to diversify markets. We are glad that the EU is opening its market to work with us and trade with us. We are also looking at other countries to trade with us.We will, however, continue to engage with the US because we believe the relationship is mutually beneficial and we have to continue to nurture it for the benefit of our two nations.This interview has been lightly edited for clarity

Send us a textWhat if the dreams of Africa's greatest liberators were not just echoes of the past, but a living blueprint for the future? In this electrifying episode of the Self Reflection Podcast, host Lira Ndifon channels the urgent voice of a new generation, igniting a firestorm of hope and a powerful call to action for the youth of Africa, with a laser focus on the pivotal moment for Cameroon. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and galvanized by a message that transcends borders and speaks to the very soul of a continent yearning for true liberation.Lira doesn't just share a message; she amplifies a potent awakening. Through the impassioned words of a young African, she unpacks the burning desire for unity and self-determination that is surging through the continent's veins. This isn't a nostalgic look back, but a vibrant connection to the unfinished work of pan-African giants like Kwame Nkrumah, the revolutionary spirit of Thomas Sankara, the unwavering conviction of Patrice Lumumba, and the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela. Their sacrifices, Lira powerfully argues, were seeds planted for this very moment – a moment where the youth are rising to claim their inheritance.With palpable excitement, Lira dissects the profound mindset shift that is reshaping the African landscape. She celebrates the growing consciousness and unwavering determination of young Africans to not just envision, but actively build a better future, free from the shackles of external influence and internal stagnation. This episode is a clarion call, urging the youth to tap into their inherent power, reclaim their resources, and forge a united front towards a prosperous and self-reliant Africa – a continent where pride and progress go hand in hand. The conversation fearlessly confronts the lingering vestiges of neocolonialism and underscores the critical importance of rewriting African narratives from an African perspective.Turning her attention directly to the critical juncture facing Cameroon, Lira speaks with urgency about the upcoming 2025 elections. She underscores the undeniable link between genuine change, tangible development, and a fundamental shift in leadership. This isn't just about casting a vote; it's about seizing an opportunity to redefine the nation's trajectory. Lira paints a compelling vision of a revitalized Cameroon – a nation where education flourishes, clean water flows freely, accessible healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and the nation's immense wealth serves its people. Through a personal anecdote, she poignantly captures the growing awareness and fervent desire for transformation among young Cameroonians, emphasizing that this is their Kairos moment.Beyond the immediate political horizon, Lira delivers a powerful and deeply personal message of self-belief and resilience to every young African listener. She champions the courage to trust one's journey, to embrace setbacks as invaluable lessons, and to relentlessly pursue personal aspirations. In a world saturated with external opinions and potential discouragement, Lira passionately emphasizes the unwavering importanSupport the showCall to Action: Engage with the Self-Reflection Podcast community! Like, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube (Self-Reflection Podcast by Lira Ndifon), and all major podcast platforms. Share your insights and feedback—we value your contributions! Suggest topics you'd like us to explore. Your support amplifies our reach, sharing these vital messages of self-love and empowerment. Until our next conversation, prioritize self-care and embrace your journey. Grab your copy of "Awaken Your True Self" on Amazon. Until next time, be kind to yourself and keep reflecting.

Send us a textKarolyn Hart - President of Inspire HUB and the Founder of iHUBApp - invites us into her story of faith and work including growing up a pastor's kid (PK); giving her heart to Jesus at five years old; a shared love of faith and science; a powerful experience with her niece; going through a crisis of faith; never “arriving” as a Christian; chasing the wrong things; going through the fiery furnace; working in the “golden triangle” in Canada using her gift of stuffing envelopes; how a “white paper” led her to Nelson Mandela; the evolution of Inspire Hub and iHubApp; how her faith informs the company values; faith differences/commonalities between Canada and America; bringing dead things back to life…rise!; bringing God your whimpers; and so much more.  https://www.inspirehub.com/homepageSupport the show

On today's episode, McKay talks about how to turn the skeptics and critics in your life to supporters and partners. He shares several principles that can help bring skeptics to your way of thinking. First, approach everything from their frame of reference. Often the smartest person in the room tends to be the quietest one, because they first seek to understand. He goes on to talk about the importance of speaking with authenticity. McKay shares the experience of Nelson Mandela who used the power of helping others feel validated to prevail in one of the most significant negotiations of all time. McKay then talks of how parents and people can use trust to influence the skeptics and critics in their life. McKay then shares the tactics of Robert Cialdini to develop more influence with people in our life. These tactics include reciprocity, explaining why, contrasting, and social proof. So, put these skills to test when dealing with the skeptics or critics in your life. They will help you win them over to your way of thinking.The Finer Details of This Episode: Shania Twain's vocal cords infected by ticksTicks as a metaphor for skeptics The importance of listening Using trust to win over skepticsThe power of authenticityValuing others' opinionsNelson Mandela's quest for equality and freedomPracticing what you preachThe rule of reciprocityQuotes: “​​Turning skeptics into believers, and critics into partners can be done. And learning the skill to do that is not only useful in sales and business, but also with kids, spouses, and a host of other people in our life.”“When I'm talking to a skeptic, I don't always know how to bring them to my side, but after listening often, that way to bring them over is revealed to me. It's in listening that you gain your inspiration of how to persuade them.”“People who ask questions are often the smartest in the room, because they have the humility to ask about what they don't know.”“Next, winning the skeptics, critics, or other ticks to your side is a matter of trust. And trust is a function of two characteristics: character and competence. You may have someone with extreme character on your team, but if they're not competent, you don't trust them to do what needs to be done.”“So answer questions directly and genuinely. And remember, rapport is not enough to bring skeptics to your side.”“You see, Mandela understood that to get the people with the guns to give up the power, he had to convince them that they would be safe after doing so.”“​​When people know why you're building a business or your children understand why there is a rule, they're much more apt to comply.”“Remember, shut up and listen. Use questions to guide the direction of the discussion but make sure the skeptics and critics feel understood. Then talk to them in their language and from their point of view.”Links:Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

On this week's episode I explore the African proverb Ubuntu, which means ‘I am because we are.' The phrase came to me in meditation last week and has stayed with me everyday. How do we honor our universal bond that connects all humanity? In the midst of hatred, divisiveness and injustice, how do we deepen our compassion, find forgiveness and treat others with respect?  Nelson Mandela's commitment to Ubuntu reminds me that we are all interconnected and that we have a responsibility to care for one another. ‘I am because we are' is a phrase and philosophy I am inspired by. I aspire to live by Ubuntu's principles of Survival, Solidarity, Compassion, Respect and Dignity. You are not alone. I am because we are. Enjoy the podcast! 

Big problems don't always need big solutions. Sometimes, it's the small stuff that can break a deadlock at the office, at the dinner table, or in conversations about politics. Listening, letting go of control, and staying present even when things get tense are habits, we should learn says Adam Kahane. He's a conflict and peace negotiator who Nelson Mandela called to help South Africa when apartheid ended. His 6th book is called Everyday Habits for Transforming Systems: The Catalytic Power of Radical Engagement.

Tras pasar 27 años en prisión, Nelson Mandela fue liberado y posteriormente elegido presidente de Sudáfrica. Su nación, marcada por el dolor de la injusticia esperaba justicia, incluso venganza. Pero Mandela sorprendió al mundo al invitar a su antiguo carcelero como invitado de honor a su investidura. “Si saliera de la cárcel con odio, seguiría siendo prisionero”, declaró. Ese gesto encierra el poder redentor del perdón. No fue olvido ni negación del mal sufrido, sino una decisión consciente de no permitir que el pasado definiera su libertad interior. El Señor Jesús nos enseñó que el perdón no es solo un mandato, es una medicina para el alma. Desde la cruz, perdonó a quienes lo clavaron, y nos mostró que la verdadera victoria está en soltar lo que nos ata. ¿Te cuesta soltar lo que te hicieron? El rencor puede parecer justificado, pero termina encerrándonos en prisiones internas. El perdón no depende de lo que el otro haga, sino de lo que Dios ya hizo en ti. Decide hoy vivir en libertad. La Biblia dice en Efesios 4:32: “Antes sed benignos unos con otros, misericordiosos, perdonándoos unos a otros, como Dios también os perdonó a vosotros en Cristo” (RV1960).

On this episode, we talk with Sikose (she/her), a Ph.D. student in the Department of English studying underground literature in South Africa during apartheid. Together, we talk about how her research informs her perspective on writing and why writing matters to her. Please note that this episode contains discussions of police and state violence. Historical context:1948 – the first apartheid law is enacted in South Africa1952 – Regional pass laws, which required Black South Africans to carry identifying documents to travel through internal checkpoints within the country, are replaced by a national pass law1953 – The Bantu Education Act is enacted, effectively restricting education access for non-White South Africans1960 – Sharpeville Massacre occurs when police ambush crowds protesting against the national pass law1963-64 – The Rivonia Trial takes place, sending many leading anti-apartheid activists to prison for life, including Nelson Mandela1976 – Soweto Uprising, a protest that begins as a response to planned language policy instituting Afrikaans as the language of instruction for Black South African students, becomes a broader challenge to the authority of the apartheid government1990 – Negotiations begin to end apartheid in South Africa; Nelson Mandela is released after 27 years of imprisonmentMaterial and resources discussed:South Africa Belongs to Us: A History of the ANC – Francis Meli (Zimbabwe Publishing House, 1988; accessible via UW Libraries)Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto – Tricia Hersey (Little, Brown Spark, 2022; accessible via UW Libraries)On the Stage of Time – Sikose Mji (Beyond the Vale Publishing, 2024; available soon via UW Libraries)Decolonising the Mind: The Politics of Language in African Literature – Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o (Heinemann, 1986; accessible via UW Libraries)The Body is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-love – Sonya Renee Taylor (Berrett-Koehler Publishers; accessible via UW Libraries) Storytelling Fellows – a program for UW students, faculty, and staff organized by the UW Libraries offering beginner-level workshops on podcasting, digital exhibition, and video storytelling. Audio transcript: Episode 4

In South Africa, near the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, Ruan Cilliers left behind a successful engineering career to follow a divine calling—one that would take him and his wife, into one of the country's impoverished villages. What began as a leap of faith into Zithulele, a rural community scarred by generational poverty and fatherlessness, became a lifelong mission to restore purpose and belonging.Through his ministry efforts Ruan learned the hard truth: it was not his words or Bible studies that broke through, but the act of a father changing a diaper—a quiet image of love that shattered deeply rooted beliefs about worth and manhood.This is the story of how God transforms not only broken communities but also the very people He sends—shifting transactional faith into relational living. A story of purpose, pain, and ultimately, the power of the Father's love. Support the showVisit our website for more information on our ministry.https://theunseenstory.org/

 How do we break out of self-sabotage? The mind is biologically programmed to be negative. Lisa continues the conversation today with renunciate monk and author Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati. Sadhvi has lived on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in Rishikesh, India, for the past 30 years. Originally from Los Angeles, and a graduate of Stanford University, she holds a Ph.D. in psychology. Sadhvi explains how we are the offspring of people who know they need to survive. Our ancestors needed to assume the worst, in order to survive. We have evolved this way. And, we know that we can now change. We can reprogram our minds. Sadhvi suggests using a mantra. It doesn't have to be in Sanskrit. It's anything that can bring you into the present moment and out of negativity. We can reason with our minds, and sometimes we need to face the negativity, but more often we can delete and end the cycle of negativity. “OM” is a very common mantra. It's very powerful. Chanting also helps. This stops the mind. She gives examples of many different mantras and prayers. The sounds help the brain go into a state of coherence. She also talks about attending the Maha Kumbh Mela where more than 670 million people came to the Ganges river recently to attend the largest gathering in the history of the world. The Maha Kumbh Mela means the great festival of the nectar of immortality. It took place on the confluence of the banks of 3 great rivers in India.  There was no conflict, no violence; it was just people coming together in love and peace. She further discusses the astrology of the moment, especially the full moons. Vedic astrology predicts that this particular planetary alignment happens only once every 144 years. With hundreds of millions of people attending the gathering, this shows that people are suffering and looking for answers. People are angry. People are frustrated. People are searching for answers. This was a way to break out of constraints and experience freedom. When asked about anger, she expressed that there are some reasons to be angry including poverty, hunger, loss of human rights, and so much more. Yet, when we are angry, we are called to be agents of change, but first we must find peace within ourselves so we can then help others. She offers breathing exercises with specific energy centers and anchoring. Whether it's other people's actions, or even the weather, we shouldn't have expectations that things will be different. We cannot control others. We must bring light to the darkness, but not from a place of anger. She notes Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Jr, and Gandhi and how they were angry but came from a place of peace to make change.   Sadhvi is a bestselling author, a world-renowned speaker, a recipient of President Biden's Award for a Lifetime of Service, and she serves on the United Nations Advisory Council on religion. She talks further about her new book “Come Home to Yourself” and discusses how forgiveness is the key to help us reach deeper spiritual truths. It's an invitation to come home to freedom. This is Part 2 of the interview. Info: www.sadhviji.org  

Loyisa gola jokes about freeing Nelson Mandela in his Netflix special, "Unlearning".

Your brain occasionally cooks up falsehoods that you believe entirely, but why does this confabulation happen, and how frequently? What does this tell us about memory, truth-telling, and your life as a story that drifts? And what does this have to do with a paralyzed Supreme Court judge, a blind person who insists she can see, whether Nelson Mandela did or did not die in the 1980s, or whether Curious George had a tail?

Today, we're diving into something that's been buzzing in my mind lately—what I call The Acceptance Shift Model. This isn't just a concept I teach; it's something I've lived through in my own parenting journey. And let me tell you—it changes everything.Here's the truth bomb:When we argue against reality, we lose 100% of the time.Acceptance gets a bad rap. A lot of us think it means giving up, being passive, or saying, “Sure, just keep tantruming forever.” But nope. That's not it at all.True acceptance is one of the most active, intentional shifts we can make as parents.In this episode, I share:A dinner-date disaster turned transformational moment (yes, I literally covered my mouth mid-convo

Podcast 364 What are the solid basics of becoming more productive that anyone can use today? That's the question I'm answering this week.  You can subscribe to this podcast on: Podbean | Apple Podcasts | Stitcher | Spotify | TUNEIN Links: Email Me | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Linkedin Get Your Copy Of Your Time, Your Way: Time Well Managed, Life Well Lived The Time Sector System 5th Year Anniversary The YouTube Time Sector System Playlist Take The NEW COD Course The Working With… Weekly Newsletter Carl Pullein Learning Centre Carl's YouTube Channel Carl Pullein Coaching Programmes Subscribe to my Substack  The Working With… Podcast Previous episodes page Script | 364 Hello, and welcome to episode 364 of the Your Time, Your Way Podcast. A podcast to answer all your questions about productivity, time management, self-development and goal planning. My name is Carl Pullein, and I am your host of this show. When I was little, a police officer lived in our village. The police service provided his home, and his job was to look after the local community. Sargeant Morris was my first introduction to the police, and he taught me some valuable lessons—not least about the importance of being a law-abiding citizen.  Yet, a lesson he taught me that I never realised how important it was until later was the power of daily routines. Each morning at 8:00 am, Sergeant Morris would walk up and down the main street in our village, ensuring that the schoolchildren got to school safely.  He was also there when we returned from school at the end of the day. I'm sure there were days he was unable to be there, but all I remember is his presence on the street when I went and came back from school.  He would wear his hi-viz jacket, chat with the parents and children, and make sure we crossed the road at the pedestrian crossing and that the traffic didn't drive too fast down the street.  I also remember because of his presence, seemingly day and night, crime was almost non-existent in our village.  It was the simple things—things that did not require a lot of effort or knowledge—that made Sergeant Morris a part of my childhood I will never forget.  And that is the same for you and me today. It's the little things repeated that make the biggest difference to our productivity.  And so, with that said, let me hand you over to the Mystery Podcast Voice for this week's question.  This week's question comes from Mike. Mike asks, hi Carl. What would you say are the basics of becoming more productive?  Hi Mike, thank you for your question. It's funny you've asked this question as it's something I have been thinking a lot about recently. What are the absolute basics of being productive? I would first start with something I wrote extensively about in Your Time, Your Way, and those are the three foundations:  Sleep, exercise, and diet.  How do you feel when you've had a bad night's sleep? Perhaps you only get two or three hours of sleep. How does your day go?  Probably not very well at all. You may be able to get through the morning, but when the afternoon comes around, you're going to slump.  If that poor sleep continues for a few days, and you're going to get sick.  Now let's flip that. How do you feel when you get a solid night's sleep? What does that do to your productivity?  The difference between the two is huge. On the days you get enough sleep, you'll focus better and for longer. You'll make less mistakes and, something rarely talked about, you'll make better decisions.  That helps you as it ensures that when you decide what to work on next it will more likely be the right thing. When you're sleep deprived, your decision making abilities sink. You'll pick up the easy, low-value tasks—because you feel you're doing something—but it will have little value and the important work will be left until another day.  And then you have a backlog of important stuff to do, stuff that's probably going To have deadlines which means you put yourself under pressure and a low level of anxiety sets in, distracting you and leaving you feeling exhausted at the end of the day.  Exercise, or as I prefer to call it “movement” is another of those simple productivity enhancers often overlooked.  Sitting at a table staring at a screen all day is not good for you. You know that don't you? You're a living, breathing organism that was designed to move. We know that exercise, and when I say exercise I don't mean going to a gym or out for a run, I mean some walking, chores around the house or some light stretching in your home or office, helps your thinking and creativity. It also helps to reduce stress and resets your brain after a hard session of focused work.  One of the best things you can do if you're working from home is to do some of your chores in-between sessions of sit-down work.  For example, do two hours of project work, then stop, and take your laundry to the washing machine or vacuum your living room. Then sit down and do another session of deep work.  You'll be amazed at how much work you get done with that little tip.  You don't need to buy expensive standing desks. Just make sure you get up every ninety-minutes to two hours and walk around. Make the bed, tidy up the kids' toys, wash the dishes, or water your plants.  Firstly you're getting away from the screen and secondly you're stirring your energy tanks, elevating your blood flow and engaging your lymph glands, which work to clear your body of harmful bacteria and toxins—which build up alarmingly if you're not moving.  But the most important part of that movement is it resets your brain so you come back to your work refreshed and focused.  And then there is diet.  I'm sure I don't have to remind you how you feel after your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. You eat all that food, then sit down on the sofa and within a few minutes you're falling asleep.  All those carbohydrates causes your pancreas to go into overdrive producing vast amounts of insulin which in the short term (say twenty-minutes) is a good thing. It's what comes next that depresses your energy levels—what we call the afternoon slump.  Yet it can be avoided if you keep the carbs to a minimum and choose a healthier option.  The Japanese have a wonderful eating culture called “Hara hachi bu” which translates to “eat until 80% full”. By not over-eating, the Japanese have learned that their energy levels remain reasonably consistent throughout the day, and of course another benefit is you are less likely to gain weight.  And while we're on the topic of food, I'm not a fan of pre-preparing your meals for the week. You may think this saves you time, but the act of cooking each evening is a great way to give you some movement, and take your mind away from the work you left behind.  That meal break is a great way to reset your brain and if you're doing it in the evening, you can use it to draw a line under your work for the day and prepare you for family or friends time.  So, Mike, if I was asked to give advice on how to improve productivity, those three things would be first piece of advice. Get these three things right, and your productivity will improve massively.  Yet, there are a few other little things you could do, all of which are simple and anyone can do. The first would be to plan the day the day before. In other words before you finish your work day, you stop for five to ten minutes and decide what the most important things you need to do tomorrow are.  We're not talking about reviewing all your projects and going through all your tasks on your to-do list.  If you're reasonably engaged with your work, you will know what's important. Write these down somewhere where you will see them when you start the next day and start with the item at the top of your list.  You can do this digitally or use a pen and piece of paper. It doesn't really matter. What matters is the list is short—no more than five or six things and that it's the first thing you see when you start your day.  This does three things for you. The first is it prevents you from procrastinating by giving you a list of tasks to get on with that need to be done. It also avoids you wasting your most focused time trying to decide what to work on and then getting pulled into other people's urgencies and emergencies.  Thirdly, it allows your subconscious brain to do what it's good at—mixing your education and experience together to come up with the most effective way to do something.  There is also the fourth benefit, which is you will find you relax more in the evening knowing there's not likely to be any unwelcome emergencies when you begin the day.  Another one I've found helpful is to protect time each day for your communications. Now, this one comes from my life-long love of history—particularly 20th century history.  When I read about some the 20th century's most iconic people, whether that be Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Agatha Christie, General Eisenhower or Charles De Gaulle, you'' find that we know so much about what they thought and felt about things because they wrote letters.  It was a habit in the early to mid 20th century for people to spend some time each day writing letters. It's true they didn't have the distractions we have today—no TV (or very limited channels), internet or social media so there was time to write.  Today, we don't protect time for communications, and that's lead to overwhelming backlogs of emails and messages to respond to. If you were to protect some time each day for your communications, while you may not be able to eliminate your message backlog entirely, you will prevent it from growing out of control.  And we don't want to be fooling ourselves in to believing people received less communications in those days. That's not true. They received more. There were telegrams arriving where a telegram boy would wait for you to read the message and then take your reply back to the telegram office.  And on top of that, we had to handwrite our responses, put the letter in an envelope, stick a stamp on it and take it to the post box. It was far more time consuming, yet people did it without complaint.  Sp there you go, Mike. I hope that has given you some ideas. I would strongly recommend focusing on your sleep, movement and diet—it's there where you'll find some quick results. The daily planning, and protecting time for communications and admin, will give you results, but will take a little longer to feel the benefits. Thank you for your question and thank you to your too for listening. It just remains for me to wish you all a very very productive week.   

She's here to spice up our lives, we have the icon that is Geri Halliwell-Horner joining us this week! Geri is a Spice Girl, author, actress, and singer - there's nothing she can't do! Over lunch we heard about the time she met Nelson Mandela, winning Star Baker on Bake Off, her love of the Tudors, collecting snails as pets, living with George Michael and we discover that she would choose pick 'n' mix as her last supper main course! Always an absolute treat to have a Spice Girl join us on the podcast, 3 down, 2 to go! Geri's new children's book Rosie Frost: Ice on Fire is released on 10th April worldwide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Max Pearson presents a collection of this week's Witness History episodes from the BBC World Service.We hear about the historic moment in Nigerian politics when Goodluck Jonathan made a phone call to General Buhari marking the peaceful handover of power in 2015.Our expert is historian and creator of the Untold Stories podcast, Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, who takes us through Nigeria's political history in the leadup to the phone call that changed Nigeria.We find out about Harold Riley who was the only artist to ever be granted a sitting to paint Nelson Mandela and how the portrait was unveiled in 2005.Plus the moment co-pilot, Andreas Lubitz, crashed Germanwings Flight 4U 9525 into a mountain killing 150 people on board in 2015.In 1991, when a Yugoslav People's Army Commander died in mysterious circumstances during the Croatian War of Independence. Finally, the creation of a new genre of music called Ethio-jazz in 1960s New York.Contributors:Dr Reuben Abati - one of Goodluck Jonathan's special advisers Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie - Historian and creator of the Untold Stories podcast Archive of Harold Riley - the only artist to be granted a sitting with Nelson Mandela General David Galtier - military person who led the Germanwings plane crash search operation Mulatu Astatke - musician and 'father of Ethio-jazz'Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic' and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy's Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they've had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America's occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.(Photo:Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari (L) speaks with outgoing president Goodluck Jonathan (R) Credit: Pool / Nigeria Presidency Press Office/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

60,000 angry men attack a saint—and get reduced to ashes by their own ignorance – this epic tale from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam becomes the backdrop for a powerful conversation on radical forgiveness, spiritual transformation, and the illusiory nature of enemies. Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack ancient wisdom through the lens of Lao Tzu, Martin Luther King Jr., and Nelson Mandela to reveal one unshakable truth: real sages see no enemies, only souls. From corrupt olive oil empires to broken relationships, from ego battles to misused power—even from within religious life—this episode goes deep into how spiritual maturity always means rising above.

Harold Riley was the only artist in the world granted a sitting to capture Nelson Mandela on canvas. The unique portrait was unveiled in 2005 and raised over $1m for South African children's charities at an auction held at the Rockefeller Centre in New York. Mandela sat for the English artist six times in Cape Town and Johannesburg over 18 months which Harold Riley described as "one of the greatest experiences" of his life.This programme was produced and presented by Reena Stanton-Sharma using archive. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more. Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic' and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy's Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they've had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America's occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.(Photo: Harold Riley's portrait of Nelson Mandela. Credit: Stephen Lovekin/WireImage for AOL Time Warner - Corporate Communications)

How much do you know about Nelson Mandela and South Africa's brutal, racially oppressive system of apartheid? Mandela became the first black president of South Africa in 1994, just four years after serving 27 years in prison for demanding equal rights for the black citizens of the predominantly black nation of South Africa. Mandela would do so much to help dismantle the South African system of apartheid that led to his incarceration, and we'll learn about how apartheid worked, who Nelson Mandela was, and more in today's inspirational and historical episode. Merch and more: www.badmagicproductions.com Timesuck Discord! https://discord.gg/tqzH89vWant to join the Cult of the Curious PrivateFacebook Group? Go directly to Facebook and search for "Cult of the Curious" to locate whatever happens to be our most current page :)For all merch-related questions/problems: store@badmagicproductions.com (copy and paste)Please rate and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and elsewhere and follow the suck on social media!! @timesuckpodcast on IG and http://www.facebook.com/timesuckpodcastWanna become a Space Lizard? Click here: https://www.patreon.com/timesuckpodcast.Sign up through Patreon, and for $5 a month, you get access to the entire Secret Suck catalog (295 episodes) PLUS the entire catalog of Timesuck, AD FREE. You'll also get 20% off of all regular Timesuck merch PLUS access to exclusive Space Lizard merch.