Podcasts about Ordinary

How do non-state armed groups act when the state seeks not to crush them—but to tolerate their activities? This is the central question of a new book by the political scientist Kolby Hanson titled, Ordinary Rebels: Rank-and-File Militants between War and Peace.Kolby is an assistant professor of government at Wesleyan University, and his new book looks at how state toleration fundamentally transforms armed groups by shaping who takes up arms—and which leaders they follow. The book draws on a range of innovative surveys and in-depth interviews tracing four armed movements over time in Northeast India and Sri Lanka. The book looks not so much at what armed groups do when they fight—but what they do when they don't. To talk more about his new book, Kolby joins Milan on the show this week. They discuss what it means to be a “likely” recruit of an armed group, the complex political economy of India's northeast, and the way in which state toleration operates on a spectrum. Plus, the two discuss the prospects for long-term peacebuilding in South Asia and how Kolby's new book sheds light on the troubling January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.Episode notes:1. Paul Staniland, Ordering Violence: Explaining Armed Group-State Relations from Conflict to Cooperation (Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press, 2021).2. “The Past, Present, and Future of India's Near East (with Avinash Paliwal),” Grand Tamasha, November 20, 2024.3. “Paul Staniland on the Surprising Decline in Political Violence in South Asia,” Grand Tamasha, October 7, 2020.4. “Binalakshmi Nepram on the Realities of India's Oft-Forgotten Northeast,” Grand Tamasha, June 3, 2020.

In this special episode of The Strange Motion Way, Tim and Carrie Strange welcome Chris Coddington, a name synonymous with craftsmanship, innovation, and the legendary Coddington legacy. Together, they dive into the roots of custom car culture, the lessons learned from growing up around iconic builds, and how Chris continues to push design and performance forward through creativity and tradition.From the golden days of hot rodding to what's next for the industry, this conversation blends history, humor, and heartfelt insight — a must-listen for anyone who loves cars, culture, and the people who keep the wheels turning.Join Tim, Carrie, and Chris as they talk passion, legacy, and the drive to keep moving in a “Strange Motion Way.”

Sacredness isn’t hidden in temples or distant retreats — it lives in each moment we inhabit fully. Today’s meditation invites you to rediscover holiness in everyday life: in cooking, cleaning, breathing, and being. With presence, even the simplest act becomes a prayer. Your Morning Mantra: I find the sacred in the simple. Every moment holds beauty. Jennifer Cray is a life coach, meditation teacher and yoga teacher for Living Lit Up, based in Brisbane. You can deepen your meditation practices with her on Insight Timer. Insight TimerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Self-Paced ResourcesSubscribe To The Daily Podcast https://yourlevelfitness.com/podcastNew To The YLF Philosophy Start Here ylf30.comDaily Accountability And Structure For Your Self-Paced Inside/Out Process https://yourlevelfitness.com/daily-emailQ&A Response YouTube Playlist https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjSupgaY5KA66MD2IdmCwFhLFbDe-pk1lIndividualized Guidance From DarylJoin The YLF Experience https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/5t93iox9udm3Compare All Service Levels https://yourlevelfitness.com/coachingGet Your Merch, Mugs And Wall QuotesShop The Current Collections https://yourlevelfitness.shop/collectionsEpisode DescriptionIn this episode of The Daryl Perry Podcast, I talk about something simple that most of us overlook, the quiet days. The normal days. The time when it is just you and your people doing nothing big, nothing flashy, just living your actual life. Those are the days you are going to miss.I share how fast time really moves, from realizing how long ago college was, to early career memories, to seeing Your Level Fitness work anniversaries pop up and thinking about everything that has happened in between. It is wild how quickly years pass while we are busy chasing the next achievement or highlight moment.This is your reminder to be present where you are. To notice the small stuff. To appreciate the boring good days before they become the memories you wish you could get back. I do not want you living a life full of regret, looking back and wondering what you were doing while your real life was happening right in front of you.Please share this episode with anyone you think would be interested in listening to it.Visit darylperrypodcast.com for links to the show page on each of the major podcast directories. From there, you can subscribe and share this pod.For comments, questions, topic ideas, possible collaborations please email daryl@yourlevelfitness.com

A church of Jesus in Chattanooga, Tennessee that loves God and lives in community for the sake of the city.We gather for worship on Sundays at 10am at Battle Academy (1601 Market Street).@citycollectivechatt on Instagramwww.citycollective.usinfo@citycollectivechatt.com

The brands dominating search today aren't just focusing on links and keywords. They're mastering three strategic pillars that deliver sustained visibility across traditional search and AI-powered platforms.After ten years working with national and international enterprise brands (including a recent Global Search Award win for The Ordinary), we've identified the exact framework that separates market leaders from everyone else.In this episode, I reveal:• Why technical SEO performance matters more than ever — including how page load speed impacts both rankings and conversion rates (with data from Cloudflare and Walmart showing the direct business impact)• The onsite content strategy that works for both AI search and traditional SEO — including how we helped ZUGU become the top-recommended iPad case in ChatGPT and Google's AI Mode through content hierarchy and internal linking• Why offsite SEO is now about brand building, not just link building — and how digital PR on high-authority sites influences AI recommendations (with examples from our work with Aged Care Bathrooms)• How tools like WP Rocket can handle 80% of technical SEO automatically — even if you're not technicalI'll share specific examples demonstrating how Core Web Vitals, topic clusters, and digital PR work together to drive rankings across both traditional search and AI platforms.If you're ready to build an SEO strategy that works for both traditional search and AI-powered platforms, this episode provides your complete action plan.

Saint Stories for the Soul: Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Saint Cecilia, Saint Edmund the Martyr (Ep. 488)Journey beyond comfort into the heartbeat of holiness. Each week, Saint Stories for the Soul brings you the gripping, true stories of men and women who faced fear, loss, and temptation—and chose God anyway. Through vivid storytelling and timeless wisdom, discover what the saints would say to our restless age and how their courage, mercy, and faith can shape your own.This week: Saint Elizabeth of Hungary — The Splendor of Mercy · Saint Cecilia — The Song That Never Stopped · Saint Edmund the Martyr — The Crown That Did Not Fall [⁠Manuscript⁠]Ordinary people. Extraordinary grace.Because sanctity isn't someday—it's now.

Cheetos sold the mess. Domino's engineered a sound. The Ordinary called beauty a scam while selling it. This week on BRANDED, Ben Kaplan (Founder + CEO, Top Agency) breaks down how brands turned irony into influence and self-awareness into strategy. He breaks down how emotion, irony, and algorithmic storytelling are reshaping the attention economy. From absurd stunts to sensory branding, these campaigns prove that authenticity now means admitting the performance.We unpack: Cheetos & Vogel's — turning snacks and bread into fashion statements. Ramp — B2B marketing that made pain a spectacle (literally). Domino's — rebranding taste through sound design. The Ordinary — exposing beauty's biggest lie while cashing in on it. OpenAI — redefining category ownership as ChatGPT becomes shorthand for AI.Plus, a deep dive into how nostalgia, dopamine, and self-awareness became the ultimate growth hacks in 2025's marketing landscape.

OTHER -- Pastor Dave Russell preaching from 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 on November 9th, 2025 at Oakhurst Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC.

Episode: 1468 The evolution of the bicycle.  Today, let's talk about bicycles and freedom.

SUBSCRIBE NOW TO HEAR THE AD-FREE VERSION ON OUR PREMIUM FEED:• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe for only $3/month on Supercast⁠: https://taking-the-land.supercast.com/⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe for only $3.99/month on Spotify⁠: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/taking-the-land/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠Subscribe for only $4.99/month on Apple Podcasts⁠: https://apple.co/3vy1s5b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SummaryFathers are more than providers. They are “satellites”—God-placed guides who see farther, protect better, and aim children toward destiny. In this Father's Day message from East Bakersfield, Pastor Raul Rodriguez walks through Scripture to show God's blueprint for fatherhood: presence, protection, patience, and a legacy of integrity.Key ScripturesMatthew 7:9–11 — A good Father gives good giftsGenesis 18:19 — Abraham's faith and obedience shape a householdMatthew 1:19–24 — Joseph hears God and protects his familyLuke 15 — The Father runs to restore the prodigalBig ideas:• Fathers lead spiritually. Be the priest of your home.• Presence is love. Attention shapes identity.• Protection is spiritual first, then physical.• Teach along the way. Ordinary moments disciple hearts.• Integrity outlives accomplishments.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Next Gen Friday and Father's Day Sermon01:53 The Importance of Fathers in Society05:46 God as the Original Father10:03 Demonstrating Love and Presence as a Father18:13 The Role of Fathers in Protection and Guidance23:54 Teaching and Instructing Children in Faith27:55 Leaving a Legacy for Future GenerationsShow NotesALL PROCEEDS GO TO WORLD EVANGELISMLocate a CFM Church near you: https://cfmmap.orgWe need five-star reviews! Tell the world what you think about this podcast at: • Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3vy1s5b • Podchaser: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/taking-the-land-cfm-sermon-pod-43369v

On this episode of the podcast, Dr. Drew Pinsky joins Amanda Head to discuss how America's obsession with avoiding discomfort is undermining our emotional and physical health. He explains why ‘oridnary misery,' the everyday struggles and setbacks that build resilience, is not only normal but essential for personal growth.Dr. Drew also tackles the overuse of psychotropic medications, the failures of modern primary care, and the erosion of real psychiatric consultation. Plus, he weighs in on the coming flu season, the mild reality of COVID-19 today, and the potential risks of bird flu — emphasizing the need for medical freedom, personal responsibility and better-trained physicians.You can watch or listen to Dr. Drew every weekday on Rumble, X, Youtube and all audio podcast platforms as he hosts, “Ask Dr. Drew.” You can also follow him on X: @AskDrDrew or @DrDrew. And finally, you can check out the amazing work that's going on with The Wellness Company by visiting their website: twc.healthSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Not everything in life has to spark joy. Sometimes, joy simply lives in having what you need—clean underwear, a steady paycheck, a safe home, a quiet moment to breathe. It doesn't have to be perfect to be enough. Because “Good enough” isn't the same as settling for harm; it's about recognizing what supports you right now. The wisdom lies in knowing when something's serving you and when it's time to lovingly let it go. 

Thank you to Polygon for supporting this podcast. 03:26 Introduction to Peptides 05:03 Disclaimer and FDA Approval Discussion 21:47 Cultural Movement and Personal Journey 26:53 Peptide Market and Supply Chain 34:57 Introduction to Testing Methods 35:41 Endotoxin and Heavy Metals Screening 36:59 Comparison with The Ordinary 39:41 Community Testing and Group Buys 41:04 Sourcing and Manufacturing Challenges 43:32 Product Popularity and FDA Approval 44:57 Deplatforming  48:12 Personal Reflections on Peptides 58:23 Housekeeping and Final Thoughts  

Majd is one of a handful of injured children from Gaza brought to the UK for urgent medical treatment. But why have there been so few? Nosheen Iqbal reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

What happens when a decorated Royal Canadian Air Force veteran takes on the challenge of civilian life—and transforms adversity into a mission to empower leaders everywhere? In this conversation, Ed Parcaut sits down with leadership coach Isabelle Fortin, who shares her powerful story of finding purpose after the military and how she helps businesses build stronger, more resilient teams. Listen as Isabelle candidly discusses the tough transition out of service, the deep importance of purpose and connection, lessons from military leadership, and why true impact in business starts at the dinner table. Discover how Against the Ordinary, her coaching practice, gives leaders the tools they need to stop workplace damage, foster happier teams, and navigate change in today's rapidly evolving world. You'll hear about: The surprising challenges of leaving military life behind How leadership styles in business often miss the mark—and how to fix it The real cost of bad leadership on health and productivity Why purpose matters more than ever, especially for younger generations Practical advice for founders, managers, and anyone ready to lead with intention Connect with Isabelle Fortin (look for the purple hair!) on LinkedIn and Facebook, and learn more at againsttheordinary.com. For anyone seeking inspiration, practical leadership strategies, or simply a fresh take on building better workplaces—this episode is for you. **Contact Ed Parcaut:** -

Tasha and Taylor talk about what is taught in seminary. Then they share insights from a book Taylor is reading for a class on spiritual disciplines called Liturgy of the Ordinary by author Tish Harrison Warren.

Andrea Bowers: Her Business Took Her Life from Ordinary to Extraordinary! Andrea started as a bartender in a restaurant. When she got pregnant, she got a job in a bank to get benefits. When the bank found out she was pregnant, they fired her. We hired her in our real estate management company immediately. She worked with us for years as a single mom. From what she learned working with us, she started a successful business painting rentals. Years later, her business has grown to provide her with her own home, a rental, and an income that allows her to take a lot of vacations with her son every year! She shares the lessons she learned that helped her take control of her business, her time, and her life! If she can do it, so can you! Sponsors: American Gold Exchange Our dealer for precious metals & the exclusive dealer of Real Power Family silver rounds (which we finally got in!!!). Get your first, or next bullion order from American Gold Exchange like we do. Tell them the Real Power Family sent you! Click on this link to get a FREE Starters Guide. Or Click Here to order our new Real Power Family silver rounds. 1 Troy Oz 99.99% Fine Silver Abolish Property Taxes in Ohio: www.AxOHTax.com  Get more information about abolishing all property taxes in Ohio. Our Links: www.RealPowerFamily.com Info@ClearSkyTrainer.com 833-Be-Do-Have (833-233-6428)

How do you live in God's fullness when the diagnosis lands, the layoff stings, or the marriage frays? Katrina's leading you through an interval workout that challenges your body and your heart as she invites you into the wondrous ordinary that happens when we are rooted and grounded in the love of Christ—even in the wilderness of life. Anchor Verse: Ephesians 3:16-19 Reflection Question: Where have you parked your identity—on the scale, the job title, the kids' report cards? New to REVING the Word? Press play and take this episode on a walk, run, hike, or to the gym. You pick how you want to move as you work out your body, and work in the good news! If you're sensing a call to bring healing to your community, discover how you can get equipped to go on mission and make a difference. Become a RevFit Instructor or LiveWell Health Coach and be a catalyst to help people learn to love God and their bodies. Learn more here [link]. Get connected: revelationwellness.org | Instagram | YouTube Help move the mission forward! Become a monthly partner! Please leave us a five-star review and share how this episode impacted you with a voice message! *If you leave us a voice message, be sure to include the episode number. Follow | Leave a Review | Send a Voice Message    

How do you live in God's fullness when the diagnosis lands, the layoff stings, or the marriage frays? Katrina's leading you through an interval workout that challenges your body and your heart as she invites you into the wondrous ordinary that happens when we are rooted and grounded in the love of Christ—even in the wilderness of life. Anchor Verse: Ephesians 3:16-19 Reflection Question: Where have you parked your identity—on the scale, the job title, the kids' report cards? New to REVING the Word? Press play and take this episode on a walk, run, hike, or to the gym. You pick how you want to move as you work out your body, and work in the good news! If you're sensing a call to bring healing to your community, discover how you can get equipped to go on mission and make a difference. Become a RevFit Instructor or LiveWell Health Coach and be a catalyst to help people learn to love God and their bodies. Learn more here [link]. Get connected: revelationwellness.org | Instagram | YouTube Help move the mission forward! Become a monthly partner! Please leave us a five-star review and share how this episode impacted you with a voice message! *If you leave us a voice message, be sure to include the episode number. Follow | Leave a Review | Send a Voice Message    

In this special presentation, we will hear from the Rev. Cn. Michael Ambler, retired Canon to the Ordinary for the Diocese of Maine, about his organization Restoration Laos, a group dedicated to clearing explosives that still litter the ground after the Vietnam War.

On the first Sunday of the past five months, we have shared a series of talks Rev. Bill Haley offered Christ Church Austin during a retreat they hosted entitled “Spiritual Formation for Kingdom Action.” Taken together, these talks offer a powerful invitation into an integrated and transformed Christian life.In this final talk, Bill reflects on the biggest takeaways from the retreat and offers a powerful reflection on how our ordinary lives are meant to be consecrated like the bread broken and the wine poured out.Explore Previous Keynotes:I. Contemplatives in the Heart of the WorldII. The Kingdom of God & ShalomIII. Formation Towards Spiritual MaturityIV. Creating Space for Godinthecoracle.org  |  @inthecoracleSupport the show

As Paul closes his letter to the Corinthians, he reminds believers that ordinary faithfulness matters in the life of the church. In 1 Corinthians 16, we see a vision of generosity, steadfastness, and love guiding God's people in their daily walk. In this message, Pastor Ben Palka encourages us to live with gospel-shaped devotion, standing firm in the faith and doing everything in love.

Discipleship isn't reserved for spiritual experts or ministry leaders—it's the everyday call of every follower of Jesus. In this message, we see that helping others grow in their faith doesn't require a degree or a platform; it simply requires a willing heart. Ordinary discipleship happens when we open our homes, our calendars, and our lives to walk alongside others in the grace of Jesus.

Join us along the wild coast of California, for an afternoon of dialogue, community, and ritual with author and soul activist, Francis Weller, and host of the All There Is podcast and CNN anchor, Anderson Cooper. Attendees gathered on the sacred grounds of Commonweal, a site of healing and cultural renewal for 50 years.* The day included a conversation between Francis and Anderson, a time for questions, a simple communal grief ritual, and closing thoughts. The central work of grief, loss, and community in tenuous times was explored. The event was a fundraiser for Commonweal's Cancer Help Program, co-presented with North Atlantic Books and Point Reyes Books. *This is the traditional lands of the Coast Miwok people Anderson Cooper Anderson is a journalist working for CNN and CBS' 60 Minutes. He also writes, produces, and hosts a podcast “All There Is,” a deeply personal exploration of loss and grief, which will soon be starting its fourth season. Francis Weller Francis is a writer and soul activist who has worked as a psychotherapist for 40 years. He's the author of many books and projects including the beloved grief text, The Wild Edge of Sorrow. Francis is currently on staff at Commonweal Cancer Help Program. His most recent collection, In the Absence of the Ordinary, was released in August. *** The New School is Commonweal's learning community and podcast—we offer conversations, workshops, and other events in areas that Commonweal champions: finding meaning, growing health and resilience, advocating for justice, and stewarding the natural world. We make our conversations into podcasts for many thousands of listeners world wide and have been doing this since 2007. Please like/follow our YouTube channel for access to our library of more than 400 great podcasts.

This comes from a collection of short talks recorded during the FLF 2025 Conference

This comes from a collection of short talks recorded during the FLF 2025 Conference

Send us a textCheck out the JIBM Web site at:  https://www.joeinblackministries.com/Please use the following link if you would like to financially support Church of the Holy Family: https://pushpay.com/g/hfgrandblanc?sr...Support the show

In this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse Schwamb explores Jesus' parable of the mustard seed from Matthew 13. The seemingly insignificant mustard seed grows into a mighty tree, providing a profound metaphor for God's kingdom—beginning in humble, ordinary ways yet expanding to glorious fulfillment. Jesse unpacks how this parable challenges our expectations of power and glory, revealing that God intentionally works through what appears small and insignificant to manifest His mighty power. This episode offers a meditation on God's kingdom, which operates contrary to human expectations, growing unstoppably between Christ's first and second comings despite opposition, and ultimately providing shelter for all nations. Key Takeaways The kingdom of God begins with something small and seemingly insignificant (a mustard seed) yet grows to become greater than all garden plants Jesus deliberately uses ordinary, humble elements to describe God's kingdom, contrasting with human expectations of power and glory The theology of the cross consistently looks to normal, ordinary means rather than what people perceive as great and powerful There is significant growth of God's kingdom between Christ's first advent and His eventual return God's kingdom cannot be stopped by opposition; attempts to destroy it actually facilitate its growth Biblical meditation on Jesus' parables is essential for deeper understanding and application The parable connects to Old Testament imagery (particularly in Daniel and Ezekiel) where trees represent kingdoms The Theology of Ordinary Means The parable of the mustard seed demonstrates what Jesse refers to as "the theology of the cross" versus "the theology of glory." God consistently chooses to work through what appears weak, small, and insignificant rather than through impressive displays of worldly power. As Jesse explains, "The theology of Cross is always looking to these normal, ordinary insignificant things. It's God's stacking the deck against himself to show his great power that he works not... in the circumstance of what people perceive to be great and powerful, but the exact opposite." This approach reveals God's sovereignty—He needs no human advantage, political power, or military might to accomplish His purposes. The kingdom that began with Jesus' seemingly humble first advent will culminate in His glorious return, showing that God's power is made perfect in weakness. The Unstoppable Growth of God's Kingdom One of the most encouraging aspects of this parable is how it portrays the inevitability of the kingdom's growth. Just as a mustard seed inevitably grows into a tree according to its nature, God's kingdom advances despite opposition. Jesse notes how throughout history, attempts to destroy Christianity have always failed: "History is replete with those... who have tried in their own way to silence God, to destroy the scriptures or to somehow eradicate Christianity. And of course, history will be filled up with all of their failures." Even the martyrdom of Stephen in the early church, which seemed like a defeat, actually caused the gospel to spread beyond Jerusalem as believers were scattered. This illustrates Jesus' promise that "the gates of hell will not prevail against his church" (Matthew 16:18). The kingdom continues to grow by God's power until its final consummation when Christ returns. Memorable Quotes "The humble inauguration was not a mistake. This is planned by God and it is for his great purpose. It shows His great power, his love for his people, and the ordinary way in which he brings about all of these things." - Jesse Schwamb "This unassuming seed, which God plants, continues to grow by his power, his volition, his sustenance, until it takes over all things." - Jesse Schwamb "The one who took on flesh and was born in a humble state will return in splendor and judgment to consummate this kingdom." - Jesse Schwamb Full Transcript the theology of Cross is always looking to these. Normal, ordinary insignificant things. It's, God's stacking the deck against himself to show his great power that he works not with great po, not in the circumstance of what people perceive us to be. Great and powerful, but the exact opposite. Welcome to episode 467 of The Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse, and this is the podcast with ears to hear. Hey, brothers and sisters. Well, we're back at it again. [00:00:48] Exploring the Kingdom of God Through Parables On this episode, we're talking about seeds and leave. In what other ways would Jesus describe the kingdom of God? And we're gonna get to all of that, but in a slightly different format. Something special for everybody on this episode. It may have noticed that. Right at the top. Tony is missing, but fear not. He's still here. We're doing something different on this episode and that is we're gonna speak about the kingdom of God as Jesus describes it in parable form with the mustard seed and the leave. And so what we decided to do is I'm gonna give a quick little primer, my thoughts, my observations. On the mustard soup parable, and then Tony will be right behind me to talk about the leaven. And then in the next episode, we're coming together and we're gonna see how all of our different explanations kind of come, came together and coalesced around single themes. So this is a fun little game where you're gonna hear from. You're gonna hear from Tony, and we're gonna see how all of this comes together in the end, because neither of us is having the conversation in real time, but I'm sure that we're gonna have a lot of the similar things to say and it'll be a fun little game of seeing how all of this comes together. So if you wanna play along. And you definitely should come hang out with us in Matthew chapter 13. [00:02:04] The Mustard Seed Parable So we've gone through a couple parables already and the beauty of looking at these parables, of course, one of the many beauties, I guess I should say, is that we're getting some direct teaching from Jesus, which is always great, and we're getting it directly about the Kingdom of God. The God perspective on salvation. Clear, concise, in parable form. And so we found ourselves looking at fields, looking at planting, looking at weeds, looking at tears, looking at wheats. And now after all of that, we're coming back. To in some ways, at least for me, a familiar form. And that is we're back to seeds again. And this time it's a particular type of seed. It's the mustard seed, and Tony's gonna handle something new, a total change in direction, a totally different comparison. He's gonna get into lemon and bread making and all that kinda good stuff. But in either case, what we're finding is Jesus is specifically coming to us once again. With these finely tuned stories to help explain to us the kingdom of God. And of course, like this is clear because in all of Jesus' teaching, the kingdom of God holds this like high and lifted up this prominent position. It gets hegemony in all the other topics. And as he goes about his earthly ministry, wherever gospel you look, you're gonna find that he's proclaiming his coming to earth and that this coming meant that the kingdom of God was at hand. Now, I can only imagine, and you ought to as well, that if you were in that time, if you were listening to Jesus. What an incredible thing that would be that you're trying to understand and really discern what the he means about this kingdom of God. And perhaps like you, I would have my own perceptions of what that was, and if he's inaugurating it, I'm waiting for that thing to happen. And a kingdom is a powerful representation of ownership. Power in hierarchy in a place that's clearly manifested. And so as Jesus is in the midst of all these hears, these disciples that are gathering around the throngs of people that are trying to understand what he has to say. If he's coming and saying, I am here to inaugurate the kingdom of God, then my first question would be. Where is it? Tell us what it's gonna look like. Show me what you mean when you say that the kingdom of God is here, that you're ushering it in. And so how strange and unusual then for Jesus to say something like the kingdom of God is like a mustard seed, or the kingdom of God is like lemon in bread. So it seems altogether fitting that Jesus would want to and would have to explain what exactly he means. It's a little bit though mysterious that he uses these elements. To bring about that kind of explanation. I find that endlessly fascinating. [00:04:32] Meditation on Jesus' Teachings Speaking of which, I think one of the reasons why Tony and I are discovering that we're loving these parables so much is that it forces us to do something that sometimes is Modern Christians we're honestly just not that good at it, not skilled and often not practiced because our lives are filled with many things. And we prefer not to do this, and that is to actually meditate on what he's saying, to actually like turn it over in our minds to think about it. Like personally, practically, seriously, and earnestly to understand how the truth of God's words should look in life. And it just dawned on me this week that really the parable forces us into that rubric, whether we want to or not, because the whole purpose is to take what he's saying and to dwell on it to such degree that we receive something of the promises that are therein. By chewing on them. And it's just too easy to read the scriptures, of course, and to take with you as you pass by those words, something of a little bit of the knowledge that's contained within something about the phraseology or about the facts of it. But really what God's after here is this idea that we would spend time meditating on the words of Jesus, so that we might truly understand what he means by the kingdom of God. And then we might take that kingdom into our own realm, as it were, into our own sphere of influence to manifest it. And to worship him through it and to be obedient in it. Be not because of works on the righteousness, of course, but because we already have been saved by a great savior for this kingdom. And now we know something about what it's actually like by way of these beautiful metaphors. And of course, like the metaphors, even if they're straightforward. As we're about to find in this one, still force us into them to really say, well, what? What does it mean? We're gonna talk about seeds and mustard plants, and where else we find trees in the scriptures. Without meditation, we lose so much of this without meditation. Truths are maybe devoured, but they're never digested. I like what the great Puritan Watson wrote. He said, it's better to meditate on one sermon than to hear. Five sermons. Many complain that they do not profit from sermons. This may be the chief reason, because they do not chew the cud. They do not meditate on what they have heard. And I think one of the great goals that Tony have in this series is that even as we're thinking about this before we have conversation with each other and present it all to you, that we really wanna spend time truly meditating on it, thinking practically, deeply for a long period of time. On what is being said here, what Jesus means by it, that it is for us, that it is a gift that he gives to us. And so I really totally resonate with what Watson is saying here, that when a Christian enters into meditation through the scriptures, that they receive healing, they receive power from God, that receive insights and wisdom, that receive his comforts, that receive his direction for life, and that all of that is, or most of that. Rather is lost if we move too quickly by it. We tend to gather a lot of knowledge, but maybe not a lot of the wisdom that's contained in there. So even if this sounds simple, this little parable that's before us, it's just a couple of verses. Loved ones that there is so much in it for us to understand and to chew on. I don't think we can expect to get all the understanding in one go and that's okay. We keep coming back to it. Certainly. I'm not gonna cover it all here. This is definitely not going to be, though. You might expect it, the definitive episode. On the parable of the mustard seed in the lemon. It can't be really, and that's because there's just so much for us to understand here and to receive from God. So that is the longest intro ever. So let me cut it there and let's just go right to the scripture, which of course is the best part of this podcast. Always. So this is Matthew chapter 13, beginning in verse 31, just a couple of verses. Jesus put another parable before them saying The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed than a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown, it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree. So that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches. Lovely. Right. It's wild because it's such quick language there. It's so brief and already I wanted to go further, but I would be into Tony's verses, which he's gonna hit with us in just a second for. But it's really compact statement of just a couple of things. One, can we just agree that I love the way that this particular little passage begins? It just starts by saying, Jesus put another parable before them. What beautiful language that he's really throwing before his disciples placing for them to evaluate again, to meditate on these beautiful words of his that express what the kingdom of heaven is like. It's of course, well within God's purview. To not have given us any kind of direct revelation here, or direct expression or even metaphorical or comparative expression of his kingdom. How kind that he does this. And then I think there is something for us to study in this, again, to chew the cut, as Watson would say, on what it means for us to think about heaven as this grain of mustard seed and that a man took it. And he sewed it in his field. It's very small, yet it grew larger than all of the other garden plants that would probably be in that field. It became a tree, and then as a result of that, the birds of the air come and make its nest in its branches. So you can see that there's all this interesting, logical pro progression throughout this passage. And we're talking about really just two verses, really, just that many sentences. It's really exceptional thing, you know. [00:09:52] The Growth of God's Kingdom I find it interesting that this illustration progresses this idea of the kingdom of God between its inauguration and consummation. There's something built in there, and like I said, I think it's realistic to assume that so many who are hearing these words we're really, truly trying to understand. Where was this kingdom, Jesus, that you're bringing in as the Son of David, show us this kingdom and its power and my own expectation. I still don't mean to put this on. Those who would've been there would've been that this kingdom would've come in power. I was waiting for it to be manifested with this sense that it would be very clear that Jesus was in. That all things, all realities both here and now in spiritual principalities will be clearly under his foot. We were looking for, we want to see the serpent crusher, the head crusher the better. David, the one that comes inlays Goliath Finally. Where is that pump and where is that power? And interestingly, Jesus says, no, actually, it's more like a mustard seed. And of course, I mean, you don't need to know much about seeds, but if you haven't looked up a mustard seed at this point, you definitely should because it's very tiny. That's obviously implied from the text, but it is very tiny, like crazy tiny, like almost so tiny that when I look at a mustard seed, whether you're like, you're looking at your. From your like spice rack or you go and Google one, it almost seems inconceivable that any size plant could come forth from that very, very tiny seed. It's so mundane and insignificant that the idea that Jesus would say, this is what this glorious kingdom of God is like, is almost mind boggling. Like even now it's mind boggling. And if it's not, it's because you have not looked at a mustard seed. Go check that bad boy out. It's so small. And so of course like Mustard would've been a common agricultural product that grew quite prolifically in that particular area. You know, the variety of mustard seed growth in PA in Palestine is probably similar, I imagine to like maybe most of like the northern hemisphere. There's various. Kind of varieties, of course of mustard seed. What I've learned since trying to chew on this text, and they grow in very all kinds of varieties, but this idea that this small seed can become something that you put in your garden, that grows to such a great extent that it dwarfs all of the other things. And of course it starts. In the most, I don't wanna say humble, that's like, that's almost too much. The most insignificant way is incredible. So the fact that, again, we have, I think in this something that Tony and I have come back to quite often, and that is the difference between the theology of glory and the theology of the cross. That the theology of Cross is always looking to these. Normal, ordinary means these insignificant things. It's, as we've said before, God's stacking the deck constantly against himself to show his great power that he works not with great po, not in the circumstance of what people perceive us to be. Great and powerful, but the exact opposite. And I think not just as the Bible communicates, not just to display his mighty power, but also to shore forth his great glory that he needs no other thing. And because he needs no other thing, he doesn't need things to go right for him. He doesn't need the right political leaders to be involved. He does not need armies. He does not need kingdoms. He inaugurates his own. And his own is so great and so powerful that it became, it can begin in the most insignificant way because the power is not itself in the planting of that thing, but in the thing that makes it grow. And so here we have this clean and clear delineation when it comes to trees that God, again, is doing the planting and this tree is gonna grow to such a great extent that dwarfs all the others besides it. And that not just that, it becomes a resting place. It becomes a living place, a place that provides shelter. And so. It's, that is a common theme that we find, like throughout all of the scriptures. In fact, I, I often think like God has a thing for, for a couple of different items. One is tense. God loves tense, loves sojourning jam. Then the third would be trees. I mean, look throughout the scripture and see where God is either using trees directly or using, this becomes like a grand metaphor explanation for so many of other great spiritual and theological principles. That's whether we go back all the way to the beginning in the guided and we see the tree of good evil, tree of knowledge of good and evil. Tree of Life rather. In addition to that, then we have all these other references, especially in the Old Testament, but I mean, whether it's Abraham and he's souring and he's, we're getting way points by way of trees, for instance, or whether we are in the New Testament and we're talking about fig trees. There are all these references to trees. They're embedded and impounded in the lifeblood of God's work and the story that he's telling, the grand narrative of salvation of his people. [00:14:35] Historical and Biblical Context And nowhere is this, I'd say more true than in places in the Old Testament, especially when we're speaking about like the book of Daniel Daniel, chapter four. So for instance, if you go back there, you're gonna find that this description here in some ways. Has it. I think parallel is probably not strong enough a word. There's like this direct connection between what God talks about and through the power of the Holy Spirit in the book of Daniel and what he Jesus' son is saying here. And in that book we see the descriptions harkening back to King Nebuchadnezzar, Babylon. He had a dream about a tree that had grown so large that the birds of the air rested in it. However, that tree was chopped down an instant. And Daniel's interpretation revealed that all the kingdoms a man will collapse, even this mighty nebuchadnezzar's kingdom. But God's kingdom that Jesus draws a parallel here to here is different. Although the inauguration of his kingdom was unimpressive, it's going to grow until it reaches final glorious form, until the birds of the heavens common nest and its branches, which by the way, is basically exactly out of Ezekiel 36, 31, chapter six. All the birds of the heavens made their nest in its bows under its branches. All the beasts of the field gave birth to the young and under its shadow, lived all the great nations. So lest is hearers miss this message here. You know, Jesus is saying very clearly, listen, there is growth of God's kingdom. Between his first and second advents and in them, Jesus showing the manner in which he's ushering in this kingdom of God and need not sow any doubts concerning the power and legitimacy of his Messianic office and of this kingdom that he's bringing in. The humble inauguration was not a mistake. You know, this is planned by God and it is for his great purpose. It shows. His great power, his love for his people, and the ordinary way in which he brings about all of these things. And we can see this in fact, some. One of the great blessings is that we sit in this place where we can interrogate, examine, have these parables read us, and we see that since Jesus uttered these parables, the mustard seed has in fact taken root and blossomed, you know? Those who oppose Jesus and his followers after his ascension tried to squelch this infant church to chop down this tree. I love, you've heard me say before, loved ones. I love this description of job that we get from the scriptures, that even in our, let's say, the most miserable times, even when it seems like all hope has been cut off from us. Even if it seems though it's never the case, even if it seems that we've been forgotten or forsaken, the scripture tells us of job. There's hope for job, like a cut down tree. There again, we have a tree and this, this idea that even though it was removed, it, new life springs forth from it again. New unassuming life, the kind of life that can only come from the creator, the one who restores all things, redeems, all things, loves his children, and for whom. We find the exact truth manifested in from Romans 8 28, that for those who love God and are called according to his purpose, all things, all things, all things work for good. And so this infant church, while in its time it was trying to be. There was so many attempts to crush it, to destroy it, that it went far beyond Jerusalem. All the attempts to do this were exactly futile. In fact, the more that God's enemies came both in the present day and in the previous day, the more they come where their AEs and try to chop at this tree, the more the tree grows. You know, a really wild example of this in the first century is the martyrdom of of Stephen, which I think is illustrative to this end because it precipitated a dispersion that carried the gospel beyond Jerusalem, into Judea, into Samaria, and to the ends of the earth, literally. That's Acts eight. You know, the history of the church is truly the fulfillment of Jesus' promise right here in this text that not even the gates of hell would prevail against his church. That's from Matthew 1618, and I know I've said before, but man, does it bear repeating. That gates don't attack anybody. Gates don't go out to battle. It's so for the Christian here, for what Jesus is saying, it's not that we have to worry that the gates of hell are coming after us, but that the normative position of the church is to grow in such a powerful and unassuming and mysterious way that even these gates, which will try to defend against the light, will not overcome it. And so because of that, we find that. It now houses the birds of heaven, that it feeds the nations that is lifeblood and it provides fruit for all who are there? The kingdom that Jesus inaugurated awaits his return for its full and final consummation. And so in the interim, we walk by faith and not by sight. We're citizens of that kingdom and we know it cannot be shaken. We know it's growing. You know, this is one of the things that I find incredible. I think you could have chosen. Any number of course of metaphors to explain what God's kingdom is like, and sometimes we choose our own and that's fun. We're trying to explain it in a particular way or maybe to express some kind of nuance of that kingdom. But my bet is that we would not use the words that Jesus has given us here if it were left to us to try to explain it without any kind of great insight. And again, the reason why is because this is too humble. It's too unassuming. It doesn't seem like it contains within enough power, but that's because we have in this, again, this super intending will of God that he's so great, so majestic, that his thoughts are so incredibly deep that even what we have to do here is let our consciousness and reason bow down to who God is and to what he says his kingdom is like, because he always. Brings it forth in every generation. He always brings it forth and it cannot be stopped. And of course, history is replete with those both individual leaders and cultures, movements and political heroes who have tried in their own way to silence God, to destroy the scriptures or to somehow eradicate Christianity. And of course, history will be filled up with all of their failures because this unassuming seed, which God plants. Continues to grow by his power, his volition, his sustenance, until it takes over all things. And in that final consummation, it absolutely will loved ones. And so we find, I think so much encouragement in that when Christ returns to consummate the kingdom of God, no one will be able to deny its glory then. And while many of us now where we look for that glory, we obtain that glory by faith and not by sight. And in the same way here that Jesus challenges us to say, look, this is how it works. And wow, do I wanna speak so much about the 11, but I've gotta save that for Tony. You know, the one who took on flesh and was born in a humble state will return in splendor and judgment to consummate this kingdom. And so in some ways this is a warning. That what started as this humble means of Jesus in the first advent coming speaking peace to his people that will will ultimately be bookended with this kind of final judgment that reflects his full unvarnished glory. And then finally. Finally the dwelling place of God will be with man. And in that way, the birds of heaven will nest in this tree, in this lovely coming together of a new heaven and a new earth of God with his people and us finally having that beautific vision of Jesus. So there's so much here. I think that's. We can spend a little bit of time chewing on, even if we just mull over in our mind, what does it mean again? That this kingdom of heaven is like, like a grain of a mustard seed, that it gets sewn. That's the small must of seeds, but that when it's grown, it's larger than all the garden plants, and then it becomes a tree. And because it is a tree and is this great and glorious tree, all the birds of the air come and make its nests and its branches. What are the birds? What are the, what are the nests? What are these branches? And of course, I think. There's so much there for all of us to really consider as we continue to ponder what it means for us to really follow the Lord Jesus Christ closely. So that is your little quick. Conversation about the mustard seed and the leaven. [00:23:00] Conclusion and Community Engagement Now, before I turn everybody over to Tony, I wanna remind you that you all probably have thoughts on this, and as you meditate on it, you'll certainly have thoughts on it. And the best place to come and hang out and share some of those thoughts is by joining our Telegram Chat Telegram. It's just a messaging app and we have a little. A little closed off corner of that world for you to come and hang out and meet and interact with other lovely brothers and sisters who are hanging out, listening to the podcast and hopefully doing a little meditating of their own. So the way that you find that, it's super easy. If you don't know by now, then you gotta know. You just go to T or t, me slash reform Brotherhood t me slash reform brotherhood, and that will take you a link to there. So loved ones. Go think about this Kingdom of heaven. It's like the grain of a mustard seed, but you know what else? It's also like the in bread. And for that, I'm gonna turn you over to.

Body Love Binge Q&A with Julia - Fear, Fullness & Fat PhobiaIn this Q&A episode, Julia and I answer real questions from the Body Love Binge community. We dive into acting in alignment with your values, overcoming the "clean vs dirty" fullness association, panic zones in recovery, seeking external validation, and why guilt hits harder after eating.Key Quotes from the Episode:

This comes from a collection of short talks recorded during the FLF 2025 Conference

In Alex Woodard's book, “Ordinary Soil,” readers are introduced to a young farmer, burdened by a mysterious family legacy and modern-day despair, who attempts to take his own life, and in doing so, sets off a chain of events that uncovers long-buried secrets. Alex joins the show to talk about how he met Zach Bush, M.D., and how the unexpected conversation they would have would inspire the story of “Ordinary Soil.” We discuss the different perspectives in this book that are separated by decades and what each has to share. Alex also talks about the message he hopes to impart to readers. There is an audiobook version of “Ordinary Soil,” voiced by the absolutely amazing team of Scott Brick and George Newbern. Alex shares how he met with Scott and George, the different voices that each brings to the table and how they brought the story to life. Alex also offers some advice for those looking to bring their own stories to the world. 

With stories like “The Lottery” and The Haunting of Hill House, Shirley Jackson was one of the great horror authors of the 20th century. In 2012, Ruth Franklin wrote a biography of the writer called Shirley Jackson: A Rather Haunted Life. In today's episode, we revisit a conversation between Franklin and NPR's Linda Wertheimer. They talk about Jackson's childhood, domestic life, and her unique ability to see "extraordinary evil” under the surface of ordinary life.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Episode 175 of The Almost Amazing Podcast is here! Join Jennifer Dennis, Justin Kellough, and Ashley Miksch as they dive into the hilarious and often awkward reality of being "public figures" at church and getting spotted out "in the wild". In this episode: Public Life vs. Private Life: What's the most awkward place to run into a church member? From Marshall's to the gym, the hosts share cringe-worthy encounters. The "Bossy" Problem: We clear the air on a Bluetooth mishap that made Justin sound like a huge jerk to his wife—and why Jennifer thinks she's the one who's actually bossy to everyone on the team. Marriage and Chores: Who's doing all the work? We talk about using a butcher knife to cut butter, why one host is "fired" from grocery shopping, and the importance of a well-organized spice cabinet. Fostering Community: A powerful discussion on how every church member can help newcomers connect by adopting the mindset of a senior pastor. The Almost Amazing Podcast is brought to you by the City Rise Network. We don't know what this podcast is about, but we talk to incredible people who love Jesus! Subscribe for more encouragement and fun!

Do you ever wonder how you could really be used by God? Ordinary you. Could God use you? Could he work through you? Let's be clear – God does not need you. He really doesn't. He has the power to do anything he wishes completely on his own. However, God still chooses to use you […]

We've all had those moments when a simple shift in perspective suddenly makes everything feel possible, and that's exactly what this episode explores.Debbie is joined in this episode, Stanford psychologist Gregory Walton for a conversation about his book Ordinary Magic and how small shifts in the way we think can lead to big changes in our lives and communities.From the way we handle tough moments and self-doubt to how institutions support students or help juvenile offenders find their footing again, Gregory shows how simple, well-designed interventions can make a powerful difference. He shares real-life stories and research that reveal how even a single encouraging message can transform someone's outlook.At its heart, this conversation is all about perspective, compassion, and the power of listening, reminding us that meaningful change often starts with the smallest, most human gestures.Listen to POTC ad-free for just $5 a month by becoming a Mega Supporter on Patreon! Or, support the podcast with a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee!Listen and Learn: How simple shifts in perspective, rooted in social psychology, can create what feels like “ordinary magic,” helping us navigate life's challenges with greater wisdom and claritySpotting and stepping out of the emotional spirals that quietly shape your relationships, helping you break the cycle and build real connections insteadHow our strongest reactions often reveal deeper questions like “Do I really belong?” or “Do they really love me?” and how noticing those moments can turn conflict into connectionThe surprising ways tiny facts shape big theories about ourselves and others, and why a change in perspective can transform the storyHow the cycles that shape our relationships, sense of belonging, and life trajectory are not fixed, and how small, intentional interventions can create lasting positive changeA nuanced approach to belonging, self-esteem, and growth, showing how the subtle ways we respond to people's questions about themselves can truly shape their confidence and resilience.Building honest, meaningful relationships, especially for young people facing huge challenges, can create transformative change in schools and communitiesResources: Ordinary Magic: The Science of How We Can Achieve Big Change with Small Acts https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593580899 Gregory's Website: https://www.gregorywalton.com/A blog post by Debbie on praising children and the problem with the self-esteem movementConnect with Gregory on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/dr.gdubAbout Dr. Gregory WaltonDr. Gregory Walton is the Michael Forman University Fellow and professor of psychology at Stanford University. Much of his research investigates psychological processes that contribute to major social problems, and how brief psychological interventions that target these processes can address such problems and help people flourish over long periods of time. Greg's research has been published in leading scientific journals, and has been covered in major media outlets including the New York Times, Harvard Business Review, The Wall Street Journal, and NPR. He has received awards from numerous organizations including from the American Education Research Association, the American Psychological Association, the Society for Experimental Social Psychology, and the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues. He earned his A.B. in Philosophy from Stanford and a PhD in Psychology from Yale University. His new book is called Ordinary Magic: The Science of How We Can Achieve Big Change with Small Acts. Related Episodes: 422. Mindwise with Nicholas Epley393. Supercommunicators with Charles Duhigg 281. Belonging Uncertainty and Bridging Divides with Geoffrey Cohen255. Influence is Your Superpower with Zoe Chance212. Stuff That's Loud: OCD and Anxiety with Lisa Coyne and Ben Sedley – Psychologists Off the Clock 200. Growing Grit with Angela Duckworth – Psychologists Off the Clock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us a textIn this episode of Gotta Be Saints, I sit down with author and Catholic coach Belinda Terro Mooney to talk about living real friendship with Jesus and praying with the saints—especially on their feast days.With All Saints' Day right around the corner, we dive into why the saints' stories matter, how ordinary people become holy, and practical ways to invite the saints to intercede for your family, parish, and daily life.Guest BioBelinda Terro Mooney is an author, Catholic coach, widow, and mom of seven. She's a definitively professed Secular Discalced Carmelite whose new book, Pray With Us: A Saint for Every Day, offers short reflections and prayers that help readers grow in friendship with the saints throughout the year.

In this week's episode of Monday Matters, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke discuss the challenges that school leaders face as they navigate both the mundane and complex aspects of their job. They offer advice on how to lead through the ordinary and fight boredom in the job of a school leader by reconnecting to one's […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Leading Through the Ordinary appeared first on Principal Matters.

Fr. Mike Gentry

Fr. Anish Thomas

Bishop Earl Fernandes

Send us a textRomas reminisces about performing in the Catskills 40 years after it's peak. Ducharme reminisces about performing in Saudi Arabia 12 years ago.2 ALs 1 Pod is a comedy podcast hosted by stand-up comedians Al Ducharme and Al Romas. Originally titled Talking Dicks Comedy Podcast, the show is a spinoff from their web series The Two Dicks, which features two inept 1950s detectives. The podcast blends observational humor, personal anecdotes, and satirical commentary, often revisiting classic episodes from their archives. With over 345 episodes, it offers a mix of new content and “vault” episodes, providing listeners with a variety of comedic material.   You can listen to 2 ALs 1 Pod on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Buzzsprout. For additional content, including video episodes and behind-the-scenes material, visit their Patreon page. https:/patreon.com/2als1pod https://www.instagram.com/thetalkingdickscomedypodcast/ https://twitter.com/DicksTwo https://www.facebook.com/thetwodicks https://www.facebook.com/The-Talking-Dicks-Comedy-Podcast-107101331446404  Support the show

In this Zazenkai Day Talk during Fall Practice Period, Chris Senko Perez reflects on Dōgen's Genjō Kōan through his image of sailing far out to sea, where the ocean appears perfectly round. Dōgen comments on […]

Alaska airlines shredded a man's bag during a flight and at first said the handling had been 'ordinary' - but later agreed to replace the bag after the media got involved. https://www.lehtoslaw.com

In this episode, Luke Burgis explores the question, “Are your desires really yours?” and how to recognize and reclaim what you truly want. He discusses how to tell the difference between “thin desires (fleeting, imitated wants) and “thick desires” (the deeper longings that bring lasting fulfillment), and why discerning between the two can change the direction of your life. Luke also shares practices for uncovering your true hierarchy of values, creating alignment between what you want and who you want to be. Explore how to pivot from “I don't want to” to “I do want to, I just don't feel like it” and how to feed the desires that lead to meaning instead of comparison or regret. Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders! Key Takeaways: Exploration of the concept of mimetic desire and its origins in the work of René Girard. Discussion on how desires are often imitative and influenced by others rather than being inherently personal. The importance of discerning between beneficial and harmful desires in one's life. The parable of the two wolves as a metaphor for the internal conflict between positive and negative desires. Differentiation between “thin desires” (fleeting and influenced by external factors) and “thick desires” (deeply rooted in personal values and identity). The role of self-reflection and narrative in understanding one's desires and motivations. The significance of establishing a hierarchy of values to guide decision-making and desire cultivation. The impact of social interactions on shaping desires and the responsibility individuals have in influencing others. The concept of “stalking your greatest desire” as a means to align personal desires with one's life mission. The importance of having a trusted partner for exploring and communicating desires, emphasizing the value of attentive listening If you enjoyed this conversation with Luke Burgis, check out these other episodes: How to Find Zest in Life with Dr. John Kaag Finding Zen in the Ordinary with Christopher Keevil Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Luke Burgis explores the question, “Are your desires really yours?” and how to recognize and reclaim what you truly want. He discusses how to tell the difference between “thin desires (fleeting, imitated wants) and “thick desires” (the deeper longings that bring lasting fulfillment), and why discerning between the two can change the direction of your life. Luke also shares practices for uncovering your true hierarchy of values, creating alignment between what you want and who you want to be. Explore how to pivot from “I don't want to” to “I do want to, I just dono't feel like it” and how to feed the desires that lead to meaning instead of comparison or regret.Exciting News!!!Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!Key Takeaways:Exploration of the concept of mimetic desire and its origins in the work of René Girard.Discussion on how desires are often imitative and influenced by others rather than being inherently personal.The importance of discerning between beneficial and harmful desires in one's life.The parable of the two wolves as a metaphor for the internal conflict between positive and negative desires.Differentiation between “thin desires” (fleeting and influenced by external factors) and “thick desires” (deeply rooted in personal values and identity).The role of self-reflection and narrative in understanding one's desires and motivations.The significance of establishing a hierarchy of values to guide decision-making and desire cultivation.The impact of social interactions on shaping desires and the responsibility individuals have in influencing others.The concept of “stalking your greatest desire” as a means to align personal desires with one's life mission.The importance of having a trusted partner for exploring and communicating desires, emphasizing the value of attentive listening.For full show notes, click here!Connect with the show:Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPodSubscribe on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyFollow us on InstagramIf you enjoyed this conversation with Luke Burgis, check out these other episodes:How to Find Zest in Life with Dr. John KaagFinding Zen in the Ordinary with Christopher KeevilBy purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!This episode is sponsored by:Persona Nutrition delivers science-backed, personalized vitamin packs that make daily wellness simple and convenient. In just minutes, you get a plan tailored to your health goals. No clutter, no guesswork. Just grab-and-go packs designed by experts. Go to PersonaNutrition.com/FEED today to take the free assessment and get your personalized daily vitamin packs for an exclusive offer — get 40% off your first order.Grow Therapy – Whatever challenges you're facing, Grow Therapy is here to help. Sessions average about $21 with insurance, and some pay as little as $0, depending on their plan. (Availability and coverage vary by state and insurance plans. Visit growtherapy.com/feed today!Delivering the WOW; Check out Richard Fain's new book, a behind-the-scenes look at how he transformed Royal Caribbean into a world-class company through culture, innovation, and intentional leadership. Available now on Amazon and wherever you get your books.AGZ – Start taking your sleep seriously with AGZ. Head to drinkag1.com/feed to get a FREE Welcome Kit with the flavor of your choice that includes a 30 day supply of AGZ and a FREE frother.Smalls – Smalls cat food is protein-packed recipes made with preservative-free ingredients you'd find in your fridge… and it's delivered right to your door. For a limited time, get 60% off your first order, plus free shipping, when you head to Smalls.com/FEED! No more picking between random brands at the store. Smalls has the right food to satisfy any cat's cravings.LinkedIn: Post your job for free at linkedin.com/1youfeed. Terms and conditions apply.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this week's edition of Let's Talk About This, Father McTeigue analyzes the pastoral letter of Fr. Carter, who is pastor of The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Chattanooga, TN. In that pastoral letter, claims were made about the elimination of the Traditional Latin Mass that don't live up to a closer reading.  Radio listeners: This is an extended podcast. To continue from where we had to stop broadcasting on the radio, skip to 45:10. Show Notes TREASURES NEW AND OLD | UNITY IN FAITH  | Pastoral Letter The Hermeneutic of Continuity in a Time of Transition | Oct. 19 2025 Homily Charlotte, Knoxville, and the suppression of the Traditional Latin Mass The “Latin Novus Ordo” Is Not the Solution  Index Lectionum: A Comparative Table of Readings for the Ordinary and Extraordinary Forms of the Roman Rite (Lectionary Study Aids) First African Nation to Eliminate River Blindness Treated Millions with Ivermectin to Achieve Great Success iCatholic Mobile The Station of the Cross Merchandise - Use Coupon Code 14STATIONS for 10% off | Catholic to the Max Read Fr. McTeigue's Written Works! "Let's Take A Closer Look" with Fr. Robert McTeigue, S.J. | Full Series Playlist Listen to Fr. McTeigue's Preaching! | Herald of the Gospel Sermons Podcast on Spotify Visit Fr. McTeigue's Website | Herald of the Gospel Questions? Comments? Feedback? Ask Father!