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Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Justin: What I try to do is…bring that authenticity to our clients in everything that we do.Success in crowdfunding isn't just about having a great product or service—it's about building a community that rallies behind your mission. This idea was central to my conversation with Justin Starbird, CEO of The Aebli Group, in today's episode. Justin highlighted that the real “silver bullet” for a successful crowdfunding campaign is the strength of an engaged community.“From our experience, a lot of times that secret weapon…is the community that they have amassed around their mission,” Justin explained. He emphasized that mission-driven companies often have an edge because their stories resonate deeply with their supporters, creating a foundation for passionate engagement.Justin shared how his team works with companies to authentically communicate their vision and values in ways that connect with people. “It's really important to be able to tell a story that's compelling, that's authentic, that's true to who they are,” he said.Justin and his team recently worked with Organic Transit, a company bringing back its innovative solar-electric bicycle, the ELF. The company's founder, Rob Cotter, turned to crowdfunding after a challenging bankruptcy. With The Aebli Group's help, Organic Transit is now raising funds on Wefunder to scale its ELF 3.0—a modernized, Eco-friendly version of its original product. Justin noted that the campaign's success is rooted in the loyal community Organic Transit had already built, which helped them pre-sell over 800 vehicles and log 10 million miles.Through storytelling, community engagement, and a focus on authenticity, Justin and his team enable mission-driven companies to thrive. “At the end of the day, it's still the mission, the vision, the goal of the company, and their authenticity,” he said.By building campaigns that connect with communities, Justin and The Aebli Group are transforming crowdfunding into a powerful tool for both raising capital and creating meaningful change.tl;dr:Today's episode explores how mission-driven storytelling creates community engagement for crowdfunding success.Guest Justin Starbird shares insights on building authentic marketing campaigns that resonate with investors.Justin describes working with Organic Transit to revive its solar-electric bicycle, the ELF 3.0.The Aebli Group uses authenticity to help startups foster trust and build meaningful connections.Justin's superpower, authenticity, is key to creating campaigns that leave lasting impacts.How to Develop Authenticity As a SuperpowerJustin's superpower is authenticity. He described it as being unafraid to share hard truths with clients and always striving to leave things better than he found them. “What I try to do is…bring that authenticity to our clients in everything that we do,” he explained. Justin emphasized that authenticity fosters trust, builds communities, and ensures long-term success for businesses.Justin shared a personal analogy to explain his approach to authenticity. He recalled hiring a yard-cleaning service and finding a Coke can left in the brush after they finished. Though small, the oversight eroded his confidence in the team's attention to detail. That lesson shaped Justin's ethos at The Aebli Group: always go the extra mile. By doing the “small things” right, like addressing potential blind spots, his team ensures their campaigns resonate with clients and communities.Tips for Developing Authenticity as a Strength:Be Vulnerable: Acknowledge weaknesses and lean into them to foster genuine connections.Address Blind Spots: Identify potential risks or challenges and confront them openly.Focus on Community: Build trust by staying true to your values and mission.Always Go the Extra Mile: Pay attention to small details that demonstrate care and commitment.By following Justin's example and advice, you can make authenticity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJustin Starbird (he/him):CEO and Founder, The Aebli Group (pronounced ABE-Lee)About The Aebli Group: At The Aebli Group (TAG), we help innovators, founders, and established companies plan, execute, and optimize crowdfunding campaigns that build community, humanize your brand, and drive sustainable growth. Crowdfunding campaigns require a unique blend of strategy, storytelling, and platform knowledge. Companies choose us because we:Have deep experience navigating crowdfunding platforms and have led multiple successful campaigns by understanding how to leverage each platform's unique audience and dynamics Combine marketing strategy with human-centered engagementHelp clients avoid pitfalls while maximizing funding potentialTurn campaigns into long-term growth engines, not just one-off eventsOur clients have successfully raised millions of dollars, validated new products, generated media coverage, and built lasting communities.Website: aebligroup.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/AebliGroupBiographical Information: Justin Starbird is the CEO and Founder of The Aebli Group (pronounced Abe-Lee), a full-service marketing agency focused on assisting founders in the crowdfunding space. Additionally, TAG is an experienced B2B marketing agency that specializes in the medical device, medical technology, and manufacturing industries. He has built his company into an industry leader by focusing on the details that help push clients to the next level. Most recently, Justin and the TAG Team launched the TAG Awards. The inaugural TAG Awards will spotlight the MedTech and Healthcare sectors, underscoring The Aebli Group's long-standing commitment to driving success in these essential industries. With advancements in medical technology and healthcare delivery shaping the future of patient care, this focused awards program aims to honor the companies, products, and leaders redefining the standards of excellence in these fields.Justin is also dedicated to his community and has been recognized with the prestigious “Spirit of America” and “Local Hero” awards for his volunteerism and philanthropy. Today, Justin lives in Maine with his loving wife, two beautiful daughters, and two dogs.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/justinstarbirdPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/justin.starbirdSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and BabyQuip. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, December 11, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern / 5:00 PM Pacific, will bring together four mission-driven founders—Fran Maier (BabyQuip), Farooq Zama (CureValue), Andrei Evulet (Jetoptera), and Erin Martin (Pump For Joy)—as they present their companies live to a national audience on e360tv, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Hosted by Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., this special broadcast showcases entrepreneurs raising capital to solve real-world problems across family travel, healthcare access, disaster response aviation, and maternal health. Viewers are encouraged to watch the live pitches and then continue the experience by joining the Private Investor Session immediately following the broadcast, where attendees can engage directly with founders, ask deeper questions, and explore their active investment offerings in a focused, off-air environment. Whether you are an active investor or simply interested in the future of mission-driven innovation, this event offers a rare opportunity to witness purpose-driven companies in action and connect with them directly after the show.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you're preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.CfPA President-elect's Vision for 2026 with Brian Belley, December 17 at 2:00 PM ET – reserve your spot now!If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Dr. Farrah Laurent. A former emergency room nurse turned entrepreneur and career coach, shares her journey from bedside care to building a six-figure business helping new nurses land high-paying jobs and launch their own ventures. The conversation explores nursing as a lucrative and flexible career path, the importance of mindset, and the power of personal branding.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Dr. Farrah Laurent. A former emergency room nurse turned entrepreneur and career coach, shares her journey from bedside care to building a six-figure business helping new nurses land high-paying jobs and launch their own ventures. The conversation explores nursing as a lucrative and flexible career path, the importance of mindset, and the power of personal branding.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Dr. Farrah Laurent. A former emergency room nurse turned entrepreneur and career coach, shares her journey from bedside care to building a six-figure business helping new nurses land high-paying jobs and launch their own ventures. The conversation explores nursing as a lucrative and flexible career path, the importance of mindset, and the power of personal branding.
For the resources and links mentioned, go to: https://simplysquaredaway.com/146 Ever felt like your body is screaming at you, and your business is too? This episode is going to change the way you think about your health and your systems. I'm joined by the amazing Rachel Carta, registered nurse, functional nutrition counselor, and life coach, for a conversation that connects the dots between what's going on in your body and what's going on behind the scenes of your business. Rachel and I dig into why your symptoms are actually signals, how everything is connected (yes, even your gut and your To Do list), and why simplicity is the key to healing both your health and your chaos. If you've ever felt like you were in constant survival mode, or like you're always behind, always pushing, and your body just isn't keeping up, this one's for you. Rachel shares her story of chronic migraines, burnout, and the breakdown that led her to completely change the way she lived and worked. She teaches how to listen to your body, recognize patterns, and implement small, simple habits that lead to massive shifts. We also talk about perimenopause, blood sugar, fiber, breathwork, and how to stop organizing your grandmother's trinkets instead of doing what matters in your business (ahem…can you relate?). This is not your typical health episode. Get ready to feel seen, empowered, and maybe finally ready to slow down and pay attention to what your body is telling you. In this episode, you'll learn: Why your symptoms aren't random, they're signals The 3 roots of health Rachel focuses on with every client How to know if what you're dealing with is emotional, medical, or stress-related The nervous system's role in organization, focus, and digestion Why your brain thinks “organizing grandma's trinkets” is just as urgent as launching your offer 3 small, doable shifts to feel better in your body and more focused in your business How deep breathing and fiber can change your life Why organizing your business lowers stress in your body Simple signs you're stuck in fight or flight and what to do about it
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Dr. Dale: When I run into a problem, the first thing I have to do is tell myself, don't be afraid. You've solved other problems in the past. You can solve this one.Millions of people worldwide face the devastating impact of cancer, with countless lives lost each year to tumors that no longer respond to existing treatments. Dr. Dale Walker, Co-founder and CEO of The Burlington HC Research Group (BHCRG), is working to change that narrative with her groundbreaking development of a new family of anti-cancer drugs. These drugs have the potential to revolutionize treatment for cancers that have become resistant to current therapies.“We tested our drugs against 15 human cancer cell lines, representative of seven different tissues, and the drug works against all of them,” Dale explained. In the U.S. alone, over 600,000 people die annually from cancer, often because their tumors no longer respond to treatment. Dale's research offers a glimmer of hope for patients and their families.Unlike traditional drug development that focuses on a single compound, Dale and her team have created a family of drugs—called BRG drugs—by combining two FDA-approved ingredients in a novel way. These drugs not only enhance the effectiveness of existing cancer treatments but also demonstrate the ability to kill nearly all cancer cells after a single dose in preclinical studies. “Most anti-cancer agents just slow tumor growth. Ours hit both marks—killing tumor cells at a safe dose level,” she said.With such promising results, Dale and her husband Vernon, who co-leads the research, are pushing forward. However, taking these drugs through the necessary safety and efficacy tests requires significant funding. To accelerate progress, BHCRG is raising capital through a regulated crowdfunding campaign on the FundingHope platform. Crowdfunding offers a faster alternative to traditional funding sources, enabling the Walkers to bypass lengthy government grant timelines.“Crowdfunding is a lifeline. We have family members and friends with cancer. We can't wait years,” Dale shared. For investors, the opportunity to back a potential game-changing cancer therapy is compelling, both for its societal impact and long-term financial potential.Dale's passion and perseverance shine through in her work. Her innovative approach to drug development could save countless lives. Supporting her mission on Funding Hope isn't just an investment in a company—it's an investment in hope.tl;dr:Dale Walker shares her innovative work on new anti-cancer drugs targeting resistant tumors.BHCRG's BRG drugs show promising preclinical results, killing almost all tumor cells with one dose.Dale explains crowdfunding's role in accelerating drug development for life-saving cancer treatments.She discusses perseverance as her superpower, solving challenges by embracing and examining problems.Today's episode highlights how crowdfunding enables investors to support impactful innovations in healthcare.How to Develop Perseverance in Problem-Solving As a SuperpowerDale's superpower is her extraordinary ability to solve complex problems and persevere through challenges. In today's episode, she explained, “When I run into a problem, the first thing I have to do is tell myself, don't be afraid. You've solved other problems in the past. You can solve this one.” Dale emphasized that problems often contain valuable information that leads to solutions, encouraging others to examine challenges closely rather than avoiding them.After discovering that an FDA-approved drug had antiviral activity, Dale faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge: making the drug work effectively in people. “I thought, I will not be able to solve this problem. It's too hard,” she admitted. Yet, she persevered, combining the drug with another FDA-approved ingredient. This breakthrough created the BRG family of cancer drugs, which kill nearly all cancer cells in preclinical studies after a single dose. Her ability to persist through doubt and difficulty exemplifies her superpower.Tips for Developing Perseverance in Problem-Solving:Acknowledge Your Strengths: Remind yourself that you've solved tough problems before and can do it again.Examine Problems Closely: Instead of avoiding challenges, look for clues within the problem itself to guide solutions.Break Down the Problem: Address each component of the challenge one step at a time.Stay Focused: Resist the urge to pivot too quickly; often, solutions lie in persistence.Find Inspiration: Remember the impact your work can have on others to stay motivated.By following Dale's example and advice, you can make perseverance in problem-solving a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDale M. Walker (she/her):Co-founder, owner, and Chief Executive Officer, The Burlington HC Research Group, Inc. (BHCRG)About The Burlington HC Research Group, Inc. (BHCRG): BHCRG is working to advance a new family of investigational drugs called BRG Therapeutics. Based on pre-clinical studies, two members of this family show potent anticancer activity across human cancer cell lines representing seven different tissues of origin, including lung cancer (four subtypes), prostate cancer (three types), triple-negative breast cancer (two types), ovarian cancer (two types), pancreatic cancer (one type), pleural mesothelioma (two types), and pre-myeloblastic leukemia (one type, tested with a single BRG drug). In tissue-culture models, BRG drugs demonstrate an unusually strong ability to eliminate nearly all cancer cells after a single dose while achieving this result at doses that are non-toxic to normal human cells. Each BRG drug delivers two active ingredients, and the primary component (ingredient #1) also inhibits the replication of viruses spanning all three major viral genome classes—DNA viruses, RNA viruses, and reverse-transcribing/retroviruses—with activity shown in vitro against influenza, COVID-19, HIV, and Ebola and other viruses. Although such breadth is uncommon and has led some observers to believe no drug could achieve these effects, the evidence shows that the human body naturally produces several essential compounds with similarly broad anticancer and antiviral functions; BRG drugs work through analogous biochemical mechanisms but produce stronger effects in controlled laboratory studies. These naturally occurring comparators include N-acetylcysteine, glutathione, and vitamin C (only at pharmacologic doses). Taken together, BRG Therapeutics represents a next-generation, multi-targeted approach designed to overcome one of the central limitations of modern oncology—drug resistance—by restoring normal cellular regulation, reactivating p53, correcting redox imbalance, and neutralizing reactive species to selectively eliminate cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue.Website: bhcrg.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584197824692Other URL: invest.fundinghope.com/offering/brg/detailsBiographical Information: My husband Vernon and I work together as a team, and we have advanced BRG therapeutics to their present state of development by collaboration. We both are veterinarians with advanced training in pathology, so that make us ‘veterinary pathologists'. Vernon also has a PhD in experimental and molecular pathology. What many people do not know is that veterinary pathologists have key roles in drug development and safety testing. Before the discovery of the BRG drugs, most of our work focused on health risks from human exposures to environmental, workplace, or medicinal agents/compounds. We were working with BRG active ingredient #1, which is FDA-approved as the active form of a cell protective drug – that means that it protects normal cells from the damaging effects of radiation and some chemicals. We were testing the ability of this agent to protect normal cells from the deleterious effects of some of the first drugs like AZT developed to treat HIV. We were surprised to learn that this cell protective drug had antiviral activity all on its own. Even though this active ingredient had been around for several decades, no one had ever reported these results before we did. We soon learned why we were the first to make this discovery - the active ingredient of this cell protective drug worked well in tissue culture as an antiviral agent, but antiviral effects were not achieved in living animals. This sent us on a long road figuring out why this was – after all, this agent worked to protect normal cells in living animals and people, so why would it not work as an antiviral agent in the same animals and people? It actually took several years to understand the nature of the problems, and even more time to figure out a solution. That solution was the BRG therapeutics.Vernon and I had little experience studying viruses, and much more experience studying cancer and anticancer drugs, and we knew that this active ingredient had anticancer activity, so we decided to start with testing a BRG drug as an anticancer agent. Our first experiment in a human, pre-myeloblastic leukemia cell line showed us anticancer effects beyond anything that we could have imagined. We were so excited, but we still had a long journey of work and discovery ahead of us. To date we have tested two BRG drugs and they kill cancer cells in all human cancer cell lines tested to date (one drug tested in 15 human cancers, the other tested in 14). A paper summarizing these results was published in 2023.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/dale-m-walker-bhcrgPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556212335476Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and SuperGreen Live. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, December 11, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern / 5:00 PM Pacific, will bring together four mission-driven founders—Fran Maier (BabyQuip), Farooq Zama (CureValue), Andrei Evulet (Jetoptera), and Erin Martin (Pump For Joy)—as they present their companies live to a national audience on e360tv, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Hosted by Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., this special broadcast showcases entrepreneurs raising capital to solve real-world problems across family travel, healthcare access, disaster response aviation, and maternal health. Viewers are encouraged to watch the live pitches and then continue the experience by joining the Private Investor Session immediately following the broadcast, where attendees can engage directly with founders, ask deeper questions, and explore their active investment offerings in a focused, off-air environment. Whether you are an active investor or simply interested in the future of mission-driven innovation, this event offers a rare opportunity to witness purpose-driven companies in action and connect with them directly after the show.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you're preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.CfPA President-elect's Vision for 2026 with Brian Belley, December 17 at 2:00 PM ET – reserve your spot now!If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
What if you could bend time — not to do more, but to experience more joy, energy, and fulfillment? In this powerful episode of Got Clutter? Get Organized!, I'm joined by Michelle Niemeyer, a former attorney who turned her own burnout into a blueprint for transformation. After more than 20 years in law, a divorce, and an autoimmune diagnosis, Michelle realized something had to change. She went back to school, became a certified health coach, and immersed herself in the science of wellness, motivation, and happiness. What emerged was The Art of Bending Time — a simple, holistic system that helps clients reclaim up to 10+ hours of productive time each week while restoring peace and purpose to their lives. We discuss how your health, routines, and even your home environment play a role in burnout and recovery — and how reconnecting with your joy can change everything. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How burnout led Michelle to develop The Art of Bending Time The connection between joy, health, productivity, and organization Why aligning your routines, space, and schedule can unlock clarity Real-life results from people who reclaimed time and fulfillment How to enter 2026 with intention — not exhaustion Connect with Michelle Niemeyer: Text: 3377 Clarity Website: https://www.michelleniemeyer.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theartofbendingtime LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-niemeyer-3997936/
Organized crime.That's what we're witnessing in plain view, thinly veiled by Democrats dog whistling (literally) to their radical base, calling them to interfere with federal law enforcement - which is a crime.Nothing less than aggressive prosecutions will stop this.Support the show
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Fran: I've been the one who came in and looked at [ideas] and said, ‘Oh, I can do something with this.Traveling with babies can be a daunting task. From packing bulky gear to ensuring cleanliness and safety, parents often find themselves overwhelmed. BabyQuip, led by CEO and founder Fran Maier, provides a simple, effective solution. BabyQuip connects traveling families with local providers of baby gear, offering a trusted marketplace for renting everything from cribs to strollers.Fran shared how her experience as a mother and Airbnb host inspired BabyQuip. “I did not want to buy, store, clean, take care of baby gear for guests,” she explained. Her entrepreneurial instincts led her to harness the gig economy, creating opportunities for over 3,000 providers—mostly moms—who deliver, set up, and clean the rented gear. “We're a marketplace, like Turo or Airbnb. We really harness the energy and dedication of our providers,” she added.This innovative model addresses a significant need in the $3 trillion U.S. travel industry. Parents flying with children no longer need to lug heavy gear or worry about availability at their destination. Fran noted, “It's an acute need, because it's something you need at a specific time in a specific place.”The company's success is evident. BabyQuip now operates in 28 countries, recently partnered with Vrbo, and has earned a Good Housekeeping award for innovative travel solutions. This year, the company expects to fulfill over 120,000 orders and even achieved profitability in Q3.BabyQuip is poised for further growth, with plans to expand into mobility equipment and international markets. To fuel this expansion, Fran is raising capital on StartEngine via a regulated crowdfunding campaign. “I have a brand that customers love. Crowdfunding lets me invite them to be part of the journey,” she explained.By addressing a real pain point for families and leveraging the gig economy, BabyQuip is redefining the travel experience for parents everywhere.tl;dr:BabyQuip solves the hassle of traveling with baby gear by connecting families to local providers.The company operates in 28 countries and has fulfilled over 120,000 orders this year alone.BabyQuip recently partnered with Vrbo and won a Good Housekeeping award for travel innovation.Fran Maier is raising capital on StartEngine to fund expansion into mobility and international markets.Fran's superpower is her visionary instinct for building trusted brands that solve real problems.How to Develop Visionary Instinct As a SuperpowerFran's superpower is her ability to “see things and get it” instinctively. She described how her entrepreneurial journey has been shaped by her knack for identifying potential in ideas and turning them into trusted brands. As Fran explained, “I've been the one who came in and looked at [ideas] and said, ‘Oh, I can do something with this.'” Her marketing background and experience enable her to see how businesses can grow, make an impact, and solve real problems for people.Fran's visionary instinct was on full display when she co-founded Match.com in the mid-1990s. At the time, the internet was in its infancy, and many doubted its potential. Fran, however, immediately recognized its transformative possibilities. “When I first saw the internet, I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is going to change everything,'” she recalled. She joined Match to build a trusted brand, foreseeing the massive societal shift toward online dating that would follow.Tips for Developing Visionary Instinct:Trust Your Gut: Pay attention to your instincts when evaluating new ideas or opportunities.Immerse Yourself in Trends: Stay informed about industry shifts and emerging technologies to spot opportunities early.Practice Pattern Recognition: Look for recurring themes or challenges in your field that you can address.Build on Experience: Leverage knowledge from past successes and failures to inform your decisions.Think Big: Envision not just the product but the larger impact and scale it can achieve.By following Fran's example and advice, you can make visionary instinct a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileFran Maier (she/her):CEO and Co-Founder, BabyQuipAbout BabyQuip: BabyQuip is the leading global marketplace for renting baby gear, beach gear, pet gear, and mobility equipment—helping travelers avoid the hassle of hauling bulky items and enabling more families to travel with ease. With 3,000+ vetted Quality Providers across more than 2,000 locations and 22,000 zip codes, BabyQuip is the only scaled, trusted brand in this category.We have now fulfilled 300,000+ reservations, maintain a world-class 94 NPS, and achieved Summer 2025 profitability in our core U.S. rentals business. Our marketplace take rate is 31%, among the highest in consumer marketplaces.Website: babyquip.comLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/babyquipCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/BabyQuipTwitter Handle: @ProjectDrawdown Instagram Handle: @babyquip Other URL: startengine.com/offering/babyquipBiographical Information: BabyQuip is led by Fran Maier, an award-winning serial entrepreneur and category creator. Fran co-founded Match.com—helping define online dating—and later served as the long-time CEO of TRUSTe (now TrustArc) privacy technology provider, where she led its nonprofit-to-for-profit transformation and raised significant venture funding. Fran has been widely recognized for her leadership, including being named to Forbes 50 Over 50. Her expertise in building trusted consumer platforms and scaling marketplaces is central to BabyQuip's success and defensible position.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/franmaierPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/fran.maierSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and SuperGreen Live. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, December 11, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern / 5:00 PM Pacific, will bring together four mission-driven founders—Fran Maier (BabyQuip), Farooq Zama (CureValue), Andrei Evulet (Jetoptera), and Erin Martin (Pump For Joy)—as they present their companies live to a national audience on e360tv, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Hosted by Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., this special broadcast showcases entrepreneurs raising capital to solve real-world problems across family travel, healthcare access, disaster response aviation, and maternal health. Viewers are encouraged to watch the live pitches and then continue the experience by joining the Private Investor Session immediately following the broadcast, where attendees can engage directly with founders, ask deeper questions, and explore their active investment offerings in a focused, off-air environment. Whether you are an active investor or simply interested in the future of mission-driven innovation, this event offers a rare opportunity to witness purpose-driven companies in action and connect with them directly after the show.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you're preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
We take a look at the TDU endorsing O'Brien and talk through some of the tensions. Leave us your thoughts at 844-899-TVLR. We also explain "right to work" laws, and why they're bad.✦ ABOUT ✦The Valley Labor Report is the only union talk radio show in Alabama, elevating struggles for justice and fairness on the job, educating folks about how they can do the same, and bringing relevant news to workers in Alabama and beyond.Our single largest source of revenue *is our listeners* so your support really matters and helps us stay on the air!Make a one time donation or become a monthly donor on our website or patreon:TVLR.FMPatreon.com/thevalleylaborreportVisit our official website for more info on the show, membership, our sponsors, merch, and more: https://www.tvlr.fmFollow TVLR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheValleyLab...Follow TVLR on Twitter: @LaborReportersFollow Jacob on Twitter: @JacobM_ALFollow TVLR Co-Creator David Story on Twitter: @RadiclUnionist✦ CONTACT US ✦Our phone number is 844-899-TVLR (8857), call or text us live on air, or leave us a voicemail and we might play it during the show!✦ OUR ADVERTISERS KEEP US ON THE AIR! ✦Support them if you can.The attorneys at MAPLES, TUCKER, AND JACOB fight for working people. Let them represent you in your workplace injury claim. Mtandj.com; (855) 617-9333The MACHINISTS UNION represents workers in several industries including healthcare, the defense industry, woodworking, and more. iamaw44.org (256) 286-3704 / organize@iamaw44.orgDo you need good union laborers on your construction site, or do you want a union construction job? Reach out to the IRONWORKERS LOCAL 477. Ironworkers477.org 256-383-3334 (Jeb Miles) / local477@bellsouth.netThe NORTH ALABAMA DSA is looking for folks to work for a better North Alabama, fighting for liberty and justice for all. Contact / Join: DSANorthAlabama@gmail.comIBEW LOCAL 136 is a group of over 900 electricians and electrical workers providing our area with the finest workforce in the construction industry. You belong here. ibew136.org Contact: (205) 833-0909IFPTE - We are engineers, scientists, nonprofit employees, technicians, lawyers, and many other professions who have joined together to have a greater voice in our careers. With over 80,000 members spread across the U.S. and Canada, we invite you and your colleagues to consider the benefits of engaging in collective bargaining. IFPTE.org Contact: (202) 239-4880THE HUNTSVILLE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD is a union open to any and all working people. Call or email them today to begin organizing your workplace - wherever it is. On the Web: https://hsviww.org/ Contact: (256) 651-6707 / organize@hsviww.orgENERGY ALABAMA is accelerating Alabama's transition to sustainable energy. We are a nonprofit membership-based organization that has advocated for clean energy in Alabama since 2014. Our work is based on three pillars: education, advocacy, and technical assistance. Energy Alabama on the Web: https://alcse.org/ Contact: (256) 812-1431 / dtait@energyalabama.orgThe Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union represents in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to retail, grocery stores, poultry processing, dairy processing, cereal processing, soda bottlers, bakeries, health care, hotels, manufacturing, public sector workers like crossing guards, sanitation, and highway workers, warehouses, building services, and distribution. Learn more at RWDSU.infoThe American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union proudly representing 700,000 federal and D.C. government workers nationwide and overseas. Learn more at AFGE.orgAre you looking for a better future, a career that can have you set for life, and to be a part of something that's bigger than yourself? Consider a skilled trades apprenticeship with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Learn more at IUPAT.orgUnionly is a union-focused company created specifically to support organized labor. We believe that providing online payments should be simple, safe, and secure. Visit https://unionly.io/ to learn more.Hometown Action envisions inclusive, revitalized, and sustainable communities built through multiracial working class organizing and leadership development at the local and state level to create opportunities for all people to thrive. Learn more at hometownaction.orgMembers of IBEW have some of the best wages and benefits in North Alabama. Find out more and join their team at ibew558.org ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Welcome to the Farmer Rapid Fire on RealAg Radio brought to you by Pioneer Seeds Canada! For today’s edition of the Farmer Rapid Fire, host Lyndsey Smith is joined by: Aubrey Yule of Killarney, Man. Lesley Kelly of Watrous, Sask. Mark Torrey of Woodville, Ont. Scott Keller of New Norway, Alta. Pioneer Agronomist Chris Robson... Read More
Welcome to the Farmer Rapid Fire on RealAg Radio brought to you by Pioneer Seeds Canada! For today’s edition of the Farmer Rapid Fire, host Lyndsey Smith is joined by: Aubrey Yule of Killarney, Man. Lesley Kelly of Watrous, Sask. Mark Torrey of Woodville, Ont. Scott Keller of New Norway, Alta. Pioneer Agronomist Chris Robson... Read More
Combating Online Predators In this episode of The Secure Family Podcast, Andy discusses how predators track and exploit children online, with detailed insights into the stages of grooming and the organized methods predators use. Andy outlines the essential steps for parents to create a digital safety plan, including establishing rules, explaining the dangers to children, and fostering open communication. When families plan and take action, predators don't stand a chance. Take control of your data with DeleteMe. Because they sponsor the podcast you can get 20% off a privacy plan from DeleteMe with promo code: DAD. Connect
The amount of lying that is taking place in “alternative media” is astounding and I discuss that, along with other examples of the seasonal fraud that is taking place; A few university money fines have occurred and MSU is teaching their pre-service teachers to be activists, per usual; I also have a new segment called Vivek is an ass and I discuss why he is; and the COVID scam is making more waves and being discussed openly again. Book Websites: https://www.moneytreepublishing.com/shop PROMO CODE: “AEFM” for 10% OFF, or https://armreg.co.uk PROMO CODE: "americaneducationfm" for 15% off all books and products. (I receive no kickbacks). https://www.thriftbooks.com/ Q posts book: https://drive.proton.me/urls/JJ78RV1QP8#yCO0wENuJQPH
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Jonathan: Bridging science and the real world.Climate change is often framed as a daunting, insurmountable challenge. But Jonathan Foley, Executive Director of Project Drawdown, sees it differently. He describes it as “the single biggest business opportunity in human history.”In today's episode, Jonathan shared insights about the 100 climate solutions identified by Project Drawdown. Eighty of these solutions are already scaling successfully, while 20 more are proven but not yet implemented widely. Together, they represent a roadmap to solving climate change—and an economic goldmine.Jonathan explains, “If we add them all together, they're more than enough to stop climate change if we really deploy them at scale. For every dollar we spend doing this, we return three to four more back to the economy.”These solutions span five major areas: electricity, food and land use, industry, transportation, and buildings. While renewable energy like solar and wind often dominate the conversation, Jonathan highlighted other impactful opportunities, such as reducing food waste, developing carbon-friendly cement, and rethinking air conditioning systems.He also emphasized the role of innovation and entrepreneurship. “We literally have to reinvent our energy systems, our food systems, our manufacturing, our cities—everything. You could look at that as a really big problem, or you could see it as a great opportunity. Especially if we do it right, we can improve lives, reduce inequity, and build a better world for future generations.”Jonathan's optimism is grounded in the potential of these solutions to create transformative change. He believes this moment is about more than just addressing climate change—it's about reshaping the future. “This is like the best bargain in human history,” he said.By scaling these ideas, we can not only stop climate change but also unlock trillions of dollars in economic value. Jonathan's message is clear: the time to act is now, and the tools to succeed are within our grasp.tl;dr:Jonathan Foley explains how scaling 100 proven climate solutions can stop climate change economically.He highlights five focus areas: electricity, food, industry, transportation, and buildings, for impactful innovation.Jonathan shares how food waste and carbon-friendly cement represent untapped opportunities for change.He emphasizes optimism, collaboration, and seeing climate solutions as business opportunities, not burdens.Jonathan discusses his superpower of bridging science with real-world action to drive global progress.How to Develop Bridging Science and the Real World As a SuperpowerJonathan's superpower is his ability to connect rigorous science with real-world needs and concerns. He describes himself as a “fence straddler,” explaining, “I like to have one foot in the world of science and one foot in the real world.” This ability allows him to translate complex scientific ideas into actionable solutions while also bringing the concerns of everyday people, businesses, and communities back to scientists. Jonathan adds, “It's not just the science talking—it's about listening much more than we speak.”Jonathan shared how his role at the California Academy of Sciences allowed him to merge science with public engagement. By using the museum as a platform, he effectively communicated climate science to larger audiences, fostering thoughtful conversations about sustainability. This experience inspired him to shift from research to leadership roles, where he could bridge the gap between scientific innovation and real-world implementation, helping to make climate solutions accessible and actionable.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Listen More Than You Speak: Focus on understanding the concerns of others before offering solutions.Make Complex Ideas Accessible: Learn to translate technical knowledge into language that resonates with different audiences.Engage with Diverse Groups: Build connections across sectors, including science, business, and community organizations.Seek Feedback: Regularly ask people outside your field what they need to know from your expertise.Focus on Real-World Impact: Align your work with practical applications that address tangible problems.By following Jonathan's example and advice, you can make bridging science and the real world a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJonathan Foley (he/him):Executive Director, Project DrawdownAbout Project Drawdown: The World's Leading Resource for Climate Solutions.Website: drawdown.orgLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/project-drawdownCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/projectdrawdownTwitter Handle: @ProjectDrawdown Instagram Handle: @projectdrawdown Biographical Information: Dr. Jonathan Foley is a world-renowned environmental scientist. His work is focused on understanding our changing planet, and finding new solutions to sustain the climate, ecosystems, and natural resources we all depend on. He has run major scientific institutions at the University of Wisconsin, the University of Minnesota, and was the CEO of the California Academy of Sciences. He now leads Project Drawdown -- the world's leading resource for climate change solutions.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/jonathan-foley-182808b9Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and SuperGreen Live. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you're preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
We ask the big questions about Doug Jones' campaign. Can he win? Can he make a difference even if he doesn't? Also, we bring you an exciting story of building worker power in the public sector in Mississippi.✦ ABOUT ✦The Valley Labor Report is the only union talk radio show in Alabama, elevating struggles for justice and fairness on the job, educating folks about how they can do the same, and bringing relevant news to workers in Alabama and beyond.Our single largest source of revenue *is our listeners* so your support really matters and helps us stay on the air!Make a one time donation or become a monthly donor on our website or patreon:TVLR.FMPatreon.com/thevalleylaborreportVisit our official website for more info on the show, membership, our sponsors, merch, and more: https://www.tvlr.fmFollow TVLR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheValleyLab...Follow TVLR on Twitter: @LaborReportersFollow Jacob on Twitter: @JacobM_ALFollow TVLR Co-Creator David Story on Twitter: @RadiclUnionist✦ CONTACT US ✦Our phone number is 844-899-TVLR (8857), call or text us live on air, or leave us a voicemail and we might play it during the show!✦ OUR ADVERTISERS KEEP US ON THE AIR! ✦Support them if you can.The attorneys at MAPLES, TUCKER, AND JACOB fight for working people. Let them represent you in your workplace injury claim. Mtandj.com; (855) 617-9333The MACHINISTS UNION represents workers in several industries including healthcare, the defense industry, woodworking, and more. iamaw44.org (256) 286-3704 / organize@iamaw44.orgDo you need good union laborers on your construction site, or do you want a union construction job? Reach out to the IRONWORKERS LOCAL 477. Ironworkers477.org 256-383-3334 (Jeb Miles) / local477@bellsouth.netThe NORTH ALABAMA DSA is looking for folks to work for a better North Alabama, fighting for liberty and justice for all. Contact / Join: DSANorthAlabama@gmail.comIBEW LOCAL 136 is a group of over 900 electricians and electrical workers providing our area with the finest workforce in the construction industry. You belong here. ibew136.org Contact: (205) 833-0909IFPTE - We are engineers, scientists, nonprofit employees, technicians, lawyers, and many other professions who have joined together to have a greater voice in our careers. With over 80,000 members spread across the U.S. and Canada, we invite you and your colleagues to consider the benefits of engaging in collective bargaining. IFPTE.org Contact: (202) 239-4880THE HUNTSVILLE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD is a union open to any and all working people. Call or email them today to begin organizing your workplace - wherever it is. On the Web: https://hsviww.org/ Contact: (256) 651-6707 / organize@hsviww.orgENERGY ALABAMA is accelerating Alabama's transition to sustainable energy. We are a nonprofit membership-based organization that has advocated for clean energy in Alabama since 2014. Our work is based on three pillars: education, advocacy, and technical assistance. Energy Alabama on the Web: https://alcse.org/ Contact: (256) 812-1431 / dtait@energyalabama.orgThe Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union represents in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to retail, grocery stores, poultry processing, dairy processing, cereal processing, soda bottlers, bakeries, health care, hotels, manufacturing, public sector workers like crossing guards, sanitation, and highway workers, warehouses, building services, and distribution. Learn more at RWDSU.infoThe American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union proudly representing 700,000 federal and D.C. government workers nationwide and overseas. Learn more at AFGE.orgAre you looking for a better future, a career that can have you set for life, and to be a part of something that's bigger than yourself? Consider a skilled trades apprenticeship with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Learn more at IUPAT.orgUnionly is a union-focused company created specifically to support organized labor. We believe that providing online payments should be simple, safe, and secure. Visit https://unionly.io/ to learn more.Hometown Action envisions inclusive, revitalized, and sustainable communities built through multiracial working class organizing and leadership development at the local and state level to create opportunities for all people to thrive. Learn more at hometownaction.orgMembers of IBEW have some of the best wages and benefits in North Alabama. Find out more and join their team at ibew558.org ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Before we step into 2026, it's time to clear the clutter and create a home that supports your next chapter. In this solo episode of Got Clutter? Get Organized!, I walk you through five key areas in your home—kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, paperwork zones, and storage spaces—to reset and refresh your surroundings before the year ends. From clearing your kitchen counters to doing a quick sweep of your basement bins, these simple yet powerful actions will help you feel lighter, more focused, and ready to enter the new year with purpose and peace. What You'll Learn: How to simplify your kitchen for easier meals Why decluttering your wardrobe helps you dress with confidence The key to managing bathroom chaos with daily-use essentials Smart ways to sort and shred lingering paper piles A simple method for tackling basement, attic, or garage clutter Need help finishing strong? Book a virtual session at JanetMTaylor.com and get a 2-for-1 organizing special — limited time only! Listen to the Full Episode:https://gotcluttergetorganized.com/ Support This Podcast: Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gcgowithjanet Janet's Organizing Resources: 15-Minute FREE Consultation: https://linkly.link/2FBkK Organizing Services: https://janetmtaylor.trafft.com/ eBooks: Prepared and Organized: https://linkly.link/2Eikc Affairs In Order: https://linkly.link/2FBnw 7 Affirmations to Organize Your Life: https://linkly.link/2Eikt Product Pick – Nok Box (Next of Kin Box): https://linkly.link/2FBkO Stay Connected & Join the Community: Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/livinglifetotallyorganized YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/janetmtaylor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janettheorganizer/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/janetmtaylor/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@janettheorganizer?lang=en
If you're enjoying the content, please like, subscribe, and comment! Nkechi's Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__iamcharis/UglyCash: https://ugly.cash/Nkechi, "Charis" Enebeli is a community builder, content creator, and tech host obsessed with connecting people, opportunities, and technology across Africa.Currently, she leads the community development efforts at UGLYCASH, an American stablecoin app that's changing how people move money globally. From onboarding new users, cultivating a trust environment, to leading growth campaigns, her focus is simple: transforming crypto from a concept into a lifestyle.Before this, she co-founded Base Africa (now Onchain Global), a community that drove Base adoption across Africa by helping builders and creators use Onchain tools to build real, scalable impact. The focus was on bridging the gap between Base and Africa's growing Web3 scene through education, collaboration, campaigns, and inclusion.Over the years, Charis has: -Managed and scaled communities of 3,000+ active members across different Web3 projects.-Hosted and spoken at leading tech and blockchain events across Africa, such as, AirDAO, SailsJS, Web3Ladies, Lagos DevCon, and Web3Lagos Con.-Organized growth campaigns and educational programs that drive both adoption and retention.-Built content, PR, and community strategies that turned casual users into believers.More than anything, Charis loves seeing people win, especially when they find freedom and purpose through tech - and why she's passionate about making Web3 more inclusive, accessible, and exciting for everyone.______________________Follow us!@worldxppodcast Instagram - https://bit.ly/3eoBwyr@worldxppodcast Twitter - https://bit.ly/2Oa7BzmSpotify - http://spoti.fi/3sZAUTGYouTube - http://bit.ly/3rxDvUL#africa #financialfreedom #web3 #crypto #cryptocurrency #stablecoin #money #monetary #blockchains #blockchain #uglycash #community #explore #explorepage #podcastshow #longformpodcast #longformpodcast #podcasts #podcaster #explore #podcast #newshow #worldxppodcast
6/8 Impersonators, Nostalgia, and the Fall of Lin Biao — Tanya Branigan — CR nostalgia manifests in organized commemorative groups and the remarkable phenomenon of Lin Biao impersonators. Lin Biao, once Mao's designated successor and principal architect of the personality cult, was subsequently vilified following his mysterious plane crash and disappearance. His dramatic downfall fractured revolutionary faith among many Chinese. Former educated youth, who endured severe conditions during rural exile, maintain regular reunion gatherings recalling their youthful experiences with nostalgic fondness, seeking transcendent meaning and harking back to an era they perceive as morally uncomplicated. 1967
Stefania Marghitu's Teen TV (Routledge, 2021)explores the history of television's relationship to teens as a desired, but elusive audience, and the ways in which television has embraced youth subcultures, tracing the shifts in American and global televisual and youth cultures. Organized chronologically, Teen TV starts with Baby Boomers and moves to Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z as a way to contextualize and discuss cultural and historical contexts of teen television and television audiences. The book examines a wide range of historical and contemporary programming: from the broadcast bottleneck, multi-channel era that included youth targeted spaces like MTV, the WB, and the CW, to the rise of streaming platforms and global crossovers. It covers the thematic concerns and narrative structure of the coming-of-age story, and the prevalent genres of teen TV, and milestones faced by teen characters. The book also includes interviews with creators and showrunners of hit network television teen series, including Degrassi's Linda Schulyer, and the costume designer that established a heightened turn in the significance of teen fashion on the small screen in Gossip Girl, Eric Daman. Rebekah Buchanan is an Associate Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
Stefania Marghitu's Teen TV (Routledge, 2021)explores the history of television's relationship to teens as a desired, but elusive audience, and the ways in which television has embraced youth subcultures, tracing the shifts in American and global televisual and youth cultures. Organized chronologically, Teen TV starts with Baby Boomers and moves to Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z as a way to contextualize and discuss cultural and historical contexts of teen television and television audiences. The book examines a wide range of historical and contemporary programming: from the broadcast bottleneck, multi-channel era that included youth targeted spaces like MTV, the WB, and the CW, to the rise of streaming platforms and global crossovers. It covers the thematic concerns and narrative structure of the coming-of-age story, and the prevalent genres of teen TV, and milestones faced by teen characters. The book also includes interviews with creators and showrunners of hit network television teen series, including Degrassi's Linda Schulyer, and the costume designer that established a heightened turn in the significance of teen fashion on the small screen in Gossip Girl, Eric Daman. Rebekah Buchanan is an Associate Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/film
Stefania Marghitu's Teen TV (Routledge, 2021)explores the history of television's relationship to teens as a desired, but elusive audience, and the ways in which television has embraced youth subcultures, tracing the shifts in American and global televisual and youth cultures. Organized chronologically, Teen TV starts with Baby Boomers and moves to Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z as a way to contextualize and discuss cultural and historical contexts of teen television and television audiences. The book examines a wide range of historical and contemporary programming: from the broadcast bottleneck, multi-channel era that included youth targeted spaces like MTV, the WB, and the CW, to the rise of streaming platforms and global crossovers. It covers the thematic concerns and narrative structure of the coming-of-age story, and the prevalent genres of teen TV, and milestones faced by teen characters. The book also includes interviews with creators and showrunners of hit network television teen series, including Degrassi's Linda Schulyer, and the costume designer that established a heightened turn in the significance of teen fashion on the small screen in Gossip Girl, Eric Daman. Rebekah Buchanan is an Associate Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/performing-arts
Stefania Marghitu's Teen TV (Routledge, 2021)explores the history of television's relationship to teens as a desired, but elusive audience, and the ways in which television has embraced youth subcultures, tracing the shifts in American and global televisual and youth cultures. Organized chronologically, Teen TV starts with Baby Boomers and moves to Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z as a way to contextualize and discuss cultural and historical contexts of teen television and television audiences. The book examines a wide range of historical and contemporary programming: from the broadcast bottleneck, multi-channel era that included youth targeted spaces like MTV, the WB, and the CW, to the rise of streaming platforms and global crossovers. It covers the thematic concerns and narrative structure of the coming-of-age story, and the prevalent genres of teen TV, and milestones faced by teen characters. The book also includes interviews with creators and showrunners of hit network television teen series, including Degrassi's Linda Schulyer, and the costume designer that established a heightened turn in the significance of teen fashion on the small screen in Gossip Girl, Eric Daman. Rebekah Buchanan is an Associate Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies
Stefania Marghitu's Teen TV (Routledge, 2021)explores the history of television's relationship to teens as a desired, but elusive audience, and the ways in which television has embraced youth subcultures, tracing the shifts in American and global televisual and youth cultures. Organized chronologically, Teen TV starts with Baby Boomers and moves to Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z as a way to contextualize and discuss cultural and historical contexts of teen television and television audiences. The book examines a wide range of historical and contemporary programming: from the broadcast bottleneck, multi-channel era that included youth targeted spaces like MTV, the WB, and the CW, to the rise of streaming platforms and global crossovers. It covers the thematic concerns and narrative structure of the coming-of-age story, and the prevalent genres of teen TV, and milestones faced by teen characters. The book also includes interviews with creators and showrunners of hit network television teen series, including Degrassi's Linda Schulyer, and the costume designer that established a heightened turn in the significance of teen fashion on the small screen in Gossip Girl, Eric Daman. Rebekah Buchanan is an Associate Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/communications
Holidays With Cousin Liz: Part 2. Liz has a present for Chris. Based on a post by storyteller 19. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. We watched TV together for an hour, mostly in silence, which was rare for Liz, who loved to talk during TV and movies. Nearly the whole time, I was hard, but as turned on as I was by having Liz close again, I also didn't want to try and force things by starting something with her prematurely. It felt right to be holding Liz, and I didn't want to rush things. When it was nearly ten, Liz turned off the TV. She reached up and grabbed at my face and gently caressed it. I looked down at her, and we looked into each other's eyes. Her face was lit by the warm glow of the fireplace. She looked so beautiful. I leaned in and we kissed each other, slowly and sensually. This seemed so different from how she was last night, but not better or worse. Last night, we acted like we satisfied a hunger after starving, but on that second night together, we started out slower and more sweetly. We sat on the couch, making out for nearly a half-hour. Liz broke the kiss, and we looked into each other's eyes in the dimly lit room. Liz stood up and grabbed the fireplace poker. she stirred the remnant pieces apart and the fire transformed to a red glow. She adjusted the damper to a slight ventilation and put the tool away. Turning to me, she smiled, then grabbed my hand. I got up and then she led me into her bedroom. Liz closed the door and locked it. She went back to kissing me, pressing me against the wall. Once we were behind closed doors, she continued our liplock while she swiftly unbuckled, unsnapped, and unzipped my jeans. Swiftly she reached down into my bozers and quickly found my straining erection, and started jerking me off. I kissed down Liz's neck, sucking hard on it and making her moan. I kissed down her collarbone and the top of her chest, pulling at her Aerosmith T-shirt to kiss more of her chest. Liz pulled off her shirt, and I kissed her cleavage. She swiftly unhooked her bra and shrugged it off so that I didn't even have to pause on my way down to her nipples. I licked around her areola and then flicked my tongue across one of her nipples. As she started to moan, I latched onto her tit and began to suck on it, causing her to moan even louder. Liz ran her free hand through my hair. I took nearly all of a tit into my mouth while lapping against it with my tongue and then sucked on it, pulling on her sensitive nipples. I switched back and forth between each of her tits. Liz pulled her hand out of my pants and slipped them down further. Once they were loose, she pulled me back up to kiss her. She flicked her tongue across my lip, and then I met her tongue with mine, and we started to french kiss. Liz pulled my college sweatshirt shirt up and over my head. Once my shirt was on the floor, she sucked and nibbled my lip, and then started to kiss down my neck, rougher than she was last night. I was afraid that she was intentionally trying to leave me a hickey from how hard she was sucking on my neck. Even though it would be so stupid, I wanted some physical mark to prove to myself that this was happening with my beautiful cousin a second night in a row. Liz kissed her way down my chest. When she got down to my stomach, she pulled my pants the rest of the way down, along with my boxers. My rock-hard cock sprung up, nearly smacking Liz on the mouth as she dropped down to her knees. I slipped my feet out of my pants and kicked them away. Liz grabbed my pants and kicked them against the crack in the door, hiding that the lamp light was on. She wrapped her hand around my rigid phallus and held it at its base. Her other hand cupped under my ball-sack and fondled the two boulders within. I shivered in pleasure when Liz looked up at me with those beautiful eyes of hers and kissed the tip of my cock. She seemed to make out with it as she kissed, licked, and sucked on the top of my cock. Everything she did felt great, and being able to better see her doing it, made it feel even better. She skilfully rubbed her tongue along the sensitive frenulum while her lips locked tightly, to hold my glans ridge captive to her lustful intents. Then she leaned down and pressed her tongue onto my ball sack, licking against my balls. I hadn't been expecting her to do that, and I couldn't help but moan. Liz took one of my balls into her mouth and sucked on it. It made me feel vulnerable to her passions, but it also felt so good that it almost hurt. Liz knew just the right amount of pressure to use. She stroked me in long slow strokes as she sucked on my balls, first one, then the other, and then both at the same time. Most girls I had been with usually ignored my balls if they even gave me a blowjob, so I wasn't used to having so much time spent on them. After sucking on my balls for a few minutes, Liz put her lips back onto my cock, only this time she started to take me all the way into her mouth. In one quick motion, she took my entire length into her mouth. I moaned as she took me effortlessly into her throat. Liz held there for a minute and then slowly pulled back off my cock to catch her breath. My entire cock was coated in her saliva. Liz took a couple of breaths and then took me back into her mouth. She started to blow me quickly, her lips sliding up and down my cock effortlessly; her tongue rubbing me in a firm swallowing motion, over and over. Liz would alternate from looking down at what she was working on; and looking up at me while she blew me. When she looked me in the eyes, it turned me on so much, but it also seemed oddly intimate, and I felt slightly vulnerable as we looked at one another. After blowing me for a couple of minutes, Liz took me back all the way into her throat and held my cock there again. While I was deep inside of her, she rapidly stroked at the underside of my cock with her tongue. She kept me inside of her mouth for a minute and a half and then pulled back from my cock with a gasp. I thought she would go back to blowing me, but instead, Liz stood up, grabbed my cock, and walked towards the bed. Liz undid her pants with her other hand, and dropped them to the floor as she walked. She lay down on her back and pulled me on top of her, kissing me deeply, I straddled over her, our naked bodies pressed against each other. She reached down between us, grasped my cock, and started to rub it against her cunt lips. I froze up at the warmth and softness of her cunt. Liz nestled my cock between her cunt lips. "I want you inside of me," Liz breathed in between kisses as she started to move so that her cunt rubbed against the tip of my cock. "I want you, too," I said and then, in a moment of honesty, added, "I have wanted you for so long." "I know. Why do you think I have teased you so much all these years?" Liz said, raising her lips so that the head of my cock slipped ever so slightly more inside of her. "To annoy me?" I asked. "That's part of it." Liz laughed. "But the other reason is that I have wanted you too," Liz said. I had one last moment of doubt if I should do this or not. Liz nibbled my earlobe. "I want you to fuck me." There was so much desire in Liz's voice. I didn't know what to say to that, but I knew what I could do in response. Going All The Way. I inched forward to both enjoy this moment and make it easy in case Liz decided to change her mind. She kept on kissing me, so I continued to press forward. I slowly worked my way inside of her. She was tight and incredibly wet. It was hard not to just thrust all the way inside of her. Being inside of Liz felt so good for so many reasons. When I bottomed out inside of her, she let out a little gasp, her body arching in pleasure at the contact of me deep inside of her. I froze in place for a moment to take in the sensation of her cunt wrapped around my cock. After getting used to the fantastic feeling of her cunt I pulled nearly all the way out and then thrust back into her quickly. Liz let out a satisfied moan when she took me fully inside of her. I tried to start off slow, but Liz humped up against me, meeting my downward thrusts. It felt too good for us to take it slow, and before long, we were fucking quickly. She held onto my shoulders, holding her body up off the bed to give her better space to thrust back up against me, or she clenched at my ass, pulling me in deeper with each thrust. Fucking Liz felt so right. It seemed like we instantly knew what the other one was going to do before they did it. Every thrust was timed perfectly to ensure the highest amount of pleasure between us. It didn't take me long to work up a sweat, my body feeling both hot and cold. I was starting to get a little out of breath. If we kept up at this pace, I wouldn't last for as long. I was glad for the release from the previous night, without which I would have come instantly when I first entered her. Liz stopped humping up against me and pressed her hand against my chest. I got off her, and she pushed me down onto my back and straddled me. She held my erection in place just at the entrance of her cunt, and then she lowered herself, taking my entire cock in one quick motion. Her cunt felt even better in this position. Liz leaned down and kissed me as she started to rock her ass up and down, working my cock against the top of her snatch as she rode my cock. I laid there for a couple of minutes, enjoying the feel of Liz perfectly riding my cock. I grabbed her perfect ass and could feel her muscles tighten and loosen as she humped me. I rocked my hips in time with her. Before long, we worked our way back to the quick pace we had built up to before. Liz started to moan more and took shallow breaths as we continued to fuck. It felt good, but it was too good; I could feel each stroke bringing me closer to an orgasm. I didn't want to cum before Liz got off. There was no guarantee that anything would happen again between us. If we were going to break this taboo together, I wanted to make sure to make this the best sex possible. Without breaking the rhythm of riding my cock she pushed on my chest and straightened up so that she was straddling my cock. Immediately her cunt felt even tighter around my cock as she continued to ride me. We both moaned at the same time. Liz pulled up so that just the tip of my cock was inside of her, and then she slammed down, taking it all in at once before pulling right back up and doing it again. I grabbed at her hips and used them to help me better slide in and out of her. Every few strokes, when Liz would take me all the way inside of her, she wouldn't pull back off immediately; instead, she would do a little grinding against me so that my cock pressed even more against her cunt walls. After a few times of doing that, Liz added that grinding motion as she went up and down on my cock, making it feel even better with each stroke. I loved the way her tits bounced as she rode up and down on my cock, and the way her face would contort in pleasure when I timed a thrust perfectly or hit her in a new sensitive spot. I was getting too close to my orgasm, but Liz seemed to be breathing heavier. She started to rub at her clit while supporting herself by leaning back onto the bed with the other hand, so I hoped that she was close enough to cum before me. It gave me a better view of my cock disappearing in and out of her tight cunt with her leaning back. My cock was soaked in her juices and made me slide in and out of her with ease. She started to rock back and forth on my cock, and her fingers rubbed furiously against her clit. Liz's moans got so loud that I was afraid that we would wake up our family, but at this point, I was too far along to do anything to stop. "Awe Chris, that's it, fuck me harder," Liz said. I held onto her hips tighter and started to fuck her even harder. "Yes, yes, yes, fuck me," Liz moaned. I knew that if we kept up like this, our family would hear. I sat up and pulled Liz off me. "Why?" She asked in a huff. I pushed her down on all fours, moved around behind her, put my hands on her hips, and then entered her fully from behind in rough thrust. Liz let out a pleasure-filled, "Oh," as I bottomed out inside of her. Liz arched her ass up against me and pressed her face down onto the bed. I had dreamed about taking Liz from behind for so long, and now that I was close to cumming I made sure to enjoy my fantasy come to life. Liz started to hump back against me. I could hear her moaning loudly into the bedding. I was surprised by how much her muffled moans turned me on. I felt her place her hand back onto her clit, and she started to rub it again. I could hear Liz's muffled moans get even louder, and then she stopped humping against my cock. She pressed her cunt back against me, taking my cock inside of her and then rocking randomly against it as her orgasm hit. As she came, I stopped holding back. I thrust into her a few more times, and with a grunt, I started to cum inside her. I held onto Liz's hips to steady myself as my body went numb with pleasure as I shot my loads inside of her as we came together. Liz's random humps slowed down as her orgasm passed, and she slowly rode my cock. When she finally stopped, I pulled out of her and laid on the bed beside her, catching my breath. Liz stayed like that for a moment with her ass up in the air, and then she laid on her side facing me. We scooted towards each other and wrapped our arms around each other. We lay like that for some time. "That was;" I started to say but didn't know the words for it. Liz leaned forward and kissed me sweetly. "I know," she said. I lay there not believing what finally happened when suddenly a thought interrupted my bliss, and I nearly jumped out of bed. Liz placed one of my hands between her tits and cradled it there with her hands as I wrapped my other hand around her. Her heart was beating so fast, just like mine. "What?" Liz asked. "I came in you, I shouldn't have done that, if you get," Liz put a hand to my chest and a finger to my lips. "Calm down. I wanted you to do that, it makes it feel even better, and I am on the pill, so you don't have to worry," Liz said. "Oh, okay, good," I said, embarrassed by my outburst, and wrapped my arms back around Liz. "Merry Christmas," Liz said. "Yeah, the best merry Christmas," I said with a smile. A few minutes later, Liz got up and grabbed the towel that I had used earlier in the day. "I will be right back. I am going to go clean up," Liz said and walked out of the room. There was a bathroom right across from the bedroom, but I still thought it was crazy that Liz walked out of the room naked. I lay there with my fingers laced behind my head as I stared up at the ceiling, a smile on my face as I rode the post-sex endorphin rush. Liz stepped back inside and gently closed the door behind her. I watched as she walked towards me and climbed into bed, trying my best to ingrain the image of her naked body into my memory. Liz climbed into bed beside me, rested her head on my chest, and pressed her body against me. I held her with one arm and played with her hair. I knew she was awake for a time, but neither one of us said anything. Before long, I heard her start to snore loudly against my chest, so loud that it woke me up when I was nearly drifting off to sleep. I smiled and lay there for a few minutes, holding her and listening to her snore. Couch Time. When I was starting to drift back off to sleep, even with her snoring, I knew that I better move out to the living room before I fell asleep with Liz again. After that night's physical exertions, I doubted that I would be able to wake up again this morning. I carefully got out of bed to not wake Liz again, but I knew that she was a deep sleeper. My theory had always been that her snores made her deaf to the world as she slept. I pulled the blanket over her and tucked her in. After I got dressed, I kissed on the top of her head. I grabbed my blanket and managed to sneak a pillow again off the bed, and I went back out to the living room. It took me some time to fall asleep even though I was exhausted. I wanted nothing more than to go back into the room and sleep beside Liz but knew that I couldn't. After some tossing and turning, I finally fell asleep. I woke up to someone kissing me. I opened my eyes, and Liz beamed down at me. "Good morning," Liz said. It was still so early that the sun hadn't fully started to rise. "Good morning," I said. I sat up, and Liz climbed onto my lap. She wrapped her arms around my neck and held me tightly as she kissed me deeply. As we kissed, my fear that last night was going to be the only time we had sex evaporated. Liz kissed me like how you kissed a lover, and while I didn't know what exactly was going to happen in the future, I knew that the last couple of nights wouldn't be stand-alone events. "My family is on their way to say goodbye, and then I am going to head back to the hotel with them to pack up my stuff." "Oh," I said. Liz lived in Portland, several states away from her family. "So, my flight leaves later today, but I was wondering, since you don't have school for a few weeks, if you wanted to come and visit me," Liz asked, looking down as she spoke. I realized that she was nervous about asking me this. My fearless cousin Liz, nervous at asking me to visit her over my Christmas break. If I hadn't just had sex with Liz the night before, then seeing her nervous about something would have been the craziest thing that happened to me this weekend. I didn't say anything for a moment, and she looked up at me expectantly. "While I mean, I did have some plans," I said. When she started to pout, I couldn't go on with it, "Yeah, I can come to visit you." "You jerk, you were just stalling," Liz said as she threw her arms around me and gave me another huge kiss. I already had morning wood from when I woke up, and I got even harder as Liz started to dry hump me. I began to play with her tits when we heard footsteps coming down the steps. She jumped off me and gave me one last peck on the lips before running back into the guest room. I smiled. I was so used to seeing Liz be sarcastic and aloof; it was odd seeing this sweet side of her. I thought about that for a bit as I laid back down to look like I was still asleep. Liz took a shower first. When she emerged, she was wearing one of my T-shirts without asking, but I loved seeing her in it, so I didn't say anything to her. By the time I took a shower, more family had shown up, including Liz's. They stayed for a couple of hours to have a small breakfast and coffee before they were going to head back to the hotel and pack up. Liz and I spent every possible moment together. Not only did she give me her phone number to make sure we kept in better touch, but she also took my phone and added her Snapchat and Instagram accounts to my phone. I rarely used the apps, and I told her so, but she told me I better use them to talk to her; otherwise, I would regret it. I knew that we would see each other again soon, but I didn't want to see her leave. I walked her and her family to their rented car when it was time for them to drive back to the hotel. Our hug goodbye lingered until we reluctantly let go. As Liz was getting in the car, she checked her purse and said how her phone wasn't in it and that she must have left it in the guest room. She said she would be right back to her family and asked me to come with her to call her phone with mine. "So, where did you last see it?" I asked Liz when we walked into the room. "Right here in my bag," Liz said, holding up her phone. "Why did you say you didn't have it?" I asked her. "So that I could give you a proper goodbye," Liz said as she hugged again, but this time also kissed me. We kissed deeply for several minutes, neither one of us wanting to break off the kiss. Our kisses started to die down, and we tried to stop, but we kept on doing small kisses. We were both left panting when we finally pulled apart. "I want you so badly again," Liz said as she rested her head on my shoulder. "Me too. I don't want to see you go." "Promise you will visit me soon." "I promise," I said, already planning on seeing her as soon as possible. We walked back out to our gathered family. "Sorry it took so long. I had my phone on silent," Liz said as we walked back up. Liz gave me one last hug and then got into the car, and they drove away. I watched them leave, feeling an odd sense of loneliness. I went back to the guest room and laid in the same bed that we had had sleepovers in together when we were kids, the same bed that last night we had sex for the first time in. I pressed the pillow that she laid on last night against my face and inhaled her scent. I lay on my back and pressed the pillow to my face, and inhaled. I felt my phone go off in my pocket. I checked it, and Liz told me that they had made it back to the hotel. She asked me what I was doing, and I told her how I was lying in bed. She called me lazy, and I asked her how I could be both lazy and an overachiever at the same time? She somehow avoided answering me, even though I was confident that I was bringing up a good point. I stayed one more day at my grandparents with my family, and then the next day, I drove home. I wasn't expecting Liz and I to text so much back and forth after we left, but we ended up being in contact the entire time they headed to the airport and after. It was nice having someone to text like that and to talk on the phone with. I was surprised when she texted me later that night and asked if I could talk on the phone. I knew that she hated talking on the phone. I usually didn't like talking on the phone much either, but I enjoyed talking with Liz. She kept on dancing around talking about what happened between us. She would make our conversations sexual first, but any time I tried to speak to her about anything, she would change the subject, teasing me yet again. Texting and talking to Liz over the next couple of days became one of my new routines and habits. Every night we talked to each other, even if it was just for a few minutes and to say goodnight, and every morning we left a good morning text message for each other. I hadn't talked to anyone like this in nearly a year. I had forgotten how easy it was to be in constant communication with someone and yet still be left wanting more of them. We maintained several conversations at once between texts, DM's, and Snapchat messages. Liz liked to send me pictures of herself in whatever cute or sexy outfit she was wearing and random pictures of her making funny faces. I had never really used Snapchat much before that, so sometimes I would be at a loss as to what to send her back, but I enjoyed her attention. Occasionally she would send me sexy pictures. She liked to do this at random times with no prompting, so a couple of times I was with friends or was in the middle of doing something in public, and I would open up a message from her, and there would be my nearly naked hot cousin. She had a knack for sending me those pictures at the most inopportune times. I would compliment her pictures and tell her how beautiful I thought she was, and she would thank me, but when I would ask to see more in another picture, she would playfully refuse or say how if I wanted to see more of her again, then I had to visit her. I was already planning to celebrate New Year's with her, so she didn't have to keep on pestering me about going to visit her, but I had to be honest. The more she teased me, the more I did want to go see her again. Portland for New Years. The drive from my Boise college dorm to Portland, was about five hours. It went by slow thanks to a few places where the road got backed up because of accidents. I should have known that something would happen to slow me down because of how badly I wanted to see Liz. I would text her every now and then when I made a stop or those times when I was backed up in traffic. She thought it would be a good idea to spam my phone with a mix of cute and sexy near-nude photos. I told her how if she didn't stop distracting me, I would never make it in time today, and she would have to go to the New Year's party all alone. I was joking, but Liz did show a little restraint and stopped sending me so many pictures after apologizing. She was just so excited to see me again. We acted like it had been years since we last saw each other instead of only a few days. We talked on the phone for the last hour of my drive. After making another reference to our taboo insest tryst, Liz finally confronted the issue. Chris, can you cite even one religious text which forbids cousins from marital relations? I mentally scanned my memories of so many years of sunday school, Bible Quiz, and countless sermons. I came up empty on actual biblical text! "Liz!" I exclaimed. "You're right! There is no such prohibition. There are countless state statutes, and exaggerated genetic narratives of birth defects. But the Bible is not banning cousins." "Yeah," Liz added. "One of my roommates is also a recovered religious addict. She found out that Isaac and Jacob both married their cousins. And Abraham married hhis half-sister." No way!" I blurted out. "But then came Mosaic Law and some restrictions were added. Yet nothing in the old or new testament bans cousins, period!" Liz emphasized. "That's what really undermines sincere people, in their spirituality, Liz. Organized religious structures and added rules where God simply gives us principles to honor." Then the conversation transitioned to some churches teaching that birth control is sin. Then what kind of sexual expressions are sin. Liz said that some churches teach that oral arousal is sodomy, because a homosexual expresses affection in that way. "Generally, churches really get hung up about sex, and it drives away people. The people often don't have a disdain for God, just a deep disappointment with organized churches." Traffic got cogested as I got closer to Portland, and I got off the phone. I made it into the city around four in the afternoon. I was impressed with the city and found it beautiful. When I pulled into the front of Liz's apartment building, I texted her that I was there, and she met me downstairs. When she saw me, she screamed my name and ran towards me and jumped into my arms and kissed me as I started to say hello back to her. I held her tight, and we stayed like that as we got our fill of each other's touch again. "I am so glad you are here," Liz said as she grabbed my hand and led me upstairs towards her apartment. Her apartment was comfortably furnished with a mix of secondhand and new looking furniture. "How was the drive?" Liz asked. "Long," I said. "Do you want to go lay down for a bit? We have some time before I have to get ready," Liz said. Napping is Code For getting some. "Yeah, that sounds great," I said. I set my bag down when we went into her room. She had a comfortable looking twin bed in the far corner of her room. The moment we were alone inside, she started to kiss me again, only this time there was more desire in her kisses. We held each other close and explored each other's bodies. I should have known what Liz had meant by asking me if I had wanted to go to bed, but sometimes it was hard for me to acknowledge that my favorite cousin and the girl that I had been talking to so much recently were the same person. When we talked to each other, for the most part, I stopped seeing her as my relative and instead saw her as the beautiful and amazing girl she was. Liz led us over to her bed and sat me down at the edge of it. While we continued to kiss, I slipped a hand underneath her shirt. She sighed when I slipped my hand inside her bra and started to play with her nipple. Liz started to undo my fly and slipped her hand inside my pants. I moaned when her hand wrapped around my erection. I missed her touch so much. Finally being able to kiss her, touch her, and be touched back was almost too much to handle. We both had been wanting each other so badly that it seemed like neither one of us was going to try and tease the other one now that we were finally together in person. I Liz pulled her shirt off and unclipped her bra, revealing her perfect perky tits. I took her closest nipple into my mouth and sucked hard on it. "Chris," Liz sighed as I flicked my tongue across her nipple and sucked on as much of her tit as I could fit into my mouth. She pulled my cock out and started to jerk it off even better as I leaned over and began to suck on her other tit. Her hand felt so good, working its way up and down my shaft. Just about every girl I had been with in the past had been needlessly too rough or too gentle when they jerked me off. Liz seemed to know the exact amount of pressure needed to please me. Liz kissed me, biting at and sucking on my bottom lip. I broke the kiss and went back to sucking on her tits, this time nibbling on her nipple and pulling on it harder as I latched on. This made Liz moan the loudest yet, and I made sure to remember that for later. Liz pulled me away from her tits and made me lean back. She leaned down and took my entire cock into her mouth in one quick movement. I leaned back and groaned as she deep throated me, just like she had last time. Liz quickly bobbed her head up and down, swirling her tongue along my shaft and every now and then focusing on the tip of my cock, sucking hard and licking it. If she kept it up, I knew that I wouldn't handle it much longer. I ran a hand through her hair and started to guide her movements. As I began to take control, Liz seemed to blow me with even more passion. I tested this out by starting to thrust up into her mouth slightly while also holding her head. Liz let out a moan when she had my entire cock in her mouth. Her moan's vibrations felt so good on my cock that it caused me to moan as well. Now that I knew she liked me taking control, I started to thrust up more into her mouth, fucking her mouth as she blew me. A couple of times, she gagged on my cock when fucked her mouth too hard, and I said sorry, feeling bad that I did that, but she didn't say anything, instead just going back to taking my cock into her mouth. I was a little more careful after that, but she seemed to enjoy me fucking her mouth. This was something that I had often fantasized about when getting blow jobs from girls in the past, but they had never seemed to like it, and I wouldn't try and force them to do something that they were not comfortable with. I thought that I was going to be coming like that, but Liz had other plans. Liz stood up in front of me and undid her pants, dropping them onto the floor and stepping out of them, spreading her legs slightly, revealing her tight cunt right in front of my face. I leaned forward and kissed it. Liz braced herself by placing her hands on my shoulders. As I went from kissing her snatch to licking along her lips, I felt Liz tremble as I stuck my tongue inside of her. I probed my tongue inside of her, doing my best to lick at different spots and in different rhythms to pleasure here. I worked my tongue in deeper, and finally, with my face pressed right against her mound, I stuck my tongue as far as it would go. I inhaled the intoxicating scent of her snatch, wishing that I never had to go so long without being able to smell and taste it again. I had always loved the smell of a girl's cunt, and Liz's cunt was top shelf compared to the girls I had been with in the past. As I ate Liz out, she moaned my name and placed one hand at the back of my head, pushing me into her so that I could eat her out even deeper. Liz started to grind against my tongue as I tongue fucked her. She let out these cute little moans and mewling sounds that urged me to keep it up. She relaxed her grip on my head a little, and I licked up along her entire cunt, pulling my tongue away so that it just barely flicked across her clit as it passed it. Liz shook at the small contact, clenched her fist in my hair, and pushed my mouth into her cunt all at the same time. I licked along her cunt again, this time sinking my tongue into her. Liz started humping even harder against my mouth, and she moaned louder. Liz pushed my head into her, and with one last rocking of her hips, Liz cried out my name and started to cum. She tried to pull me away, but I leaned forward to keep on licking her clit as her orgasm rocked her body. After a minute, she fell back down to the bed, gasping as she got her breath. My cock was throbbing at this point. I had been so close to cumming when Liz stopped blowing me, and I was dying for a release. I started to jerk off, idly at first as I waited for her to recover, but then quicker as I realized that it was going to take Liz some time to recover. She opened her eyes and saw what I was doing. She looked mesmerized as she watched me. I got a thrill at being watched by her. I had thought about her so many times before when I was masturbating, so having her amazing naked body to look at while I was doing it was almost surreal. Liz idly run her hands up and down her own body, gently rubbing her tits. She saw how intently I watched as she pulled on a nipple. "Do you want to cum on them?" Liz asked. I felt my cock twitch when she said that. "Yes," I groaned. Liz pressed her tits together, playing rougher with them as she watched me. Now that I had an endgame, I sped up, trying to come as fast as possible. I could feel my orgasm building up. I managed to stroke myself a few more times, and then with a moan, I started to cum. My first load hit right between her tits, hitting with such force that most of it bounced up onto the hollow of her neck. I angled my cock down, and my next loads landed right on top of her tights. I continued to jerk off as I came, milking as much of my cum out as I could. Her tits became coated in my cum. I couldn't believe how erotic of a sight it was to see my cum pooling between her tits and clinging to her nipples and nipple piercings. When I finished cumming I fell onto the bed beside Liz. My whole body felt warm, and I breathed heavily. Liz lay there with me until I fell asleep. I don't know how long she let me sleep, but by the time I woke up from Liz kissing me sweetly, she had taken a shower and was in the middle of getting ready. "Wake up sleepyhead, we have to get ready for the party." Being Liz's Party Date. When I was showered and dressed, I hung out with Liz as she got ready. I hadn't realized just how much work and time went into her getting ready. It was odd seeing Liz become even more radiant as she did her hair and put on her makeup. When she was ready, I couldn't believe that such a beautiful girl wanted to spend New Year's Eve with me. She was dressed all in black, wearing a low-cut dress that barely went past the middle of her thighs. All she wore to keep the cold at bay was a black leather jacket and black stockings. She wore high heels that made her already fantastic body even more shapely. We took a Lyft to her friend's party. It was in a large Condo on one of the top floors of a new looking building. The party was crowded by the time we got there. There were so many beautiful women there. It made me think that maybe all of the most beautiful people in Portland were attending the party. It seemed like we couldn't go five minutes without someone greeting Liz. It was nice seeing that Liz was so popular. I knew that she had a hard time making friends back in high school. We spent time drinking, dancing, and talking to all of Liz's friends. I noticed some of her friends checking me out, and they seemed flirty. I wondered if Liz would get jealous. It's not like we were dating, nor could we openly date, but I didn't want to do something dumb and ruin what was going on between Liz and me. The night passed by quickly as we partied. Liz kept on dragging me off to the dance floor. It didn't take me long to drink enough to stop resisting. The more we drank, the more risqu Liz danced with me. I tried to slow things down since we were in public, but she didn't seem to care. While she pushed the line of what we should do in public, she didn't cross it. Liz's friends joined us on the dance floor. I found myself surrounded by beautiful women as they danced around us. Every now and then, Liz would break away from me to dance with one of her friends. I couldn't take my eyes off them as Liz and her sexy friends would grind against each other. Sometimes one of her friends would dance with me. One of them, a petite redhead named Claire, seemed the most interested in me because she kept dancing with me. Once I realized Liz wasn't going to get upset at me dancing with them, I embraced how provocative they were with me. It was an odd feeling as I realized how much one of them was flirting with me. After not being with a girl for so long, it felt strange to have so much attention from these sexy women. Midnight approached, and everyone started to count down together. Liz held my hand as we counted down. When it was midnight, she turned towards me. It was dumb, I know, but I was too drunk to care. I wanted to make Liz my midnight kiss. I was about to kiss her when one of her hot friends kissed her deeply. I felt left out when Claire was suddenly right next to me. We kissed. It felt good, but all I wanted to do was kiss Liz as soon as I could. We stumbled up to her apartment. I tried to will myself to sober up as I helped Liz upstairs. I couldn't remember the last time that I got this drunk. Drunk Liz was flirtier and sweeter than when she was sober. She told me how happy she was that I visited her and how much she had been missing me. I carried Liz to bed and dropped her on top of it. I helped her take off her high heels as she lay down. By the time I was done, she was already passed out. I had hoped that we would have sex, but I felt a little relieved that she was asleep. I was so tired and drunk that I doubted I would have performed well. I stripped down to my boxers and climbed into bed with her. She stirred and wrapped her arms around me. Sleep evaded me for a time as I thought about the past year, and all that had recently happened. It was a new year. Now that Liz and I had reconnected and developed our relationship in such a new direction, I was optimistic about what the year had in store for me. I stirred to get comfortable and must have woken up Liz because she groggily said, "Good night." "Good night." "I love you." It was something that we had always said to each other, but those three words seemed to have so much more weight now that we were in a romantic relationship with each other. I kissed her on the top of her head. "I love you too." Based on a post by storyteller 19, for Literotica.
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The aging of America will reshape how we live and will transform nearly every aspect of contemporary society. Renowned life course sociologist Deborah Carr provides a lively, nuanced, and timely portrait of aging in the United States. The US population is older than ever before, raising new challenges for families, caregivers, health care systems, and social programs like Social Security and Medicare. Organized in seven chapters, Aging in America (U California Press, 2023) covers these topics: the history of aging and the development of theoretical approaches how cultural changes shape our views on aging the demographic characteristics of older adults today older adults' family lives and social relationships the health of older adults and social disparities in who gets sick how public policies affect the well-being of older adults and their families how baby boomers, Gen Xers, and millennials will experience old age Drawing on state-of-the-art data, current events, and pop culture, this portrait of an aging population challenges outdated myths and vividly shows how future cohorts of older adults will differ from the generations before them. Rachel Pagones is an acupuncturist, educator, and author based in Cambridge, England. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
The aging of America will reshape how we live and will transform nearly every aspect of contemporary society. Renowned life course sociologist Deborah Carr provides a lively, nuanced, and timely portrait of aging in the United States. The US population is older than ever before, raising new challenges for families, caregivers, health care systems, and social programs like Social Security and Medicare. Organized in seven chapters, Aging in America (U California Press, 2023) covers these topics: the history of aging and the development of theoretical approaches how cultural changes shape our views on aging the demographic characteristics of older adults today older adults' family lives and social relationships the health of older adults and social disparities in who gets sick how public policies affect the well-being of older adults and their families how baby boomers, Gen Xers, and millennials will experience old age Drawing on state-of-the-art data, current events, and pop culture, this portrait of an aging population challenges outdated myths and vividly shows how future cohorts of older adults will differ from the generations before them. Rachel Pagones is an acupuncturist, educator, and author based in Cambridge, England. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology
The aging of America will reshape how we live and will transform nearly every aspect of contemporary society. Renowned life course sociologist Deborah Carr provides a lively, nuanced, and timely portrait of aging in the United States. The US population is older than ever before, raising new challenges for families, caregivers, health care systems, and social programs like Social Security and Medicare. Organized in seven chapters, Aging in America (U California Press, 2023) covers these topics: the history of aging and the development of theoretical approaches how cultural changes shape our views on aging the demographic characteristics of older adults today older adults' family lives and social relationships the health of older adults and social disparities in who gets sick how public policies affect the well-being of older adults and their families how baby boomers, Gen Xers, and millennials will experience old age Drawing on state-of-the-art data, current events, and pop culture, this portrait of an aging population challenges outdated myths and vividly shows how future cohorts of older adults will differ from the generations before them. Rachel Pagones is an acupuncturist, educator, and author based in Cambridge, England. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies
The aging of America will reshape how we live and will transform nearly every aspect of contemporary society. Renowned life course sociologist Deborah Carr provides a lively, nuanced, and timely portrait of aging in the United States. The US population is older than ever before, raising new challenges for families, caregivers, health care systems, and social programs like Social Security and Medicare. Organized in seven chapters, Aging in America (U California Press, 2023) covers these topics: the history of aging and the development of theoretical approaches how cultural changes shape our views on aging the demographic characteristics of older adults today older adults' family lives and social relationships the health of older adults and social disparities in who gets sick how public policies affect the well-being of older adults and their families how baby boomers, Gen Xers, and millennials will experience old age Drawing on state-of-the-art data, current events, and pop culture, this portrait of an aging population challenges outdated myths and vividly shows how future cohorts of older adults will differ from the generations before them. Rachel Pagones is an acupuncturist, educator, and author based in Cambridge, England. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/public-policy
Holidays With Cousin Liz: Part 1. Cousins reconnect over the winter holidays. Based on a post by storyteller 19. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. I was driving back from Boise, to be with family for Christmas. That semester had been my most challenging yet. I was exhausted and ready for some time relaxing with my family. We usually had the holidays at my grandparents' house in Boulder, Colorado. Being raised in the Arizona desert, I wasn't used to driving in the snow, so the last one hundred miles were slow going for me. It didn't help that it had started to snow again, adding even more snow to the roads. Initially, I planned to get to the family party hours early, but now I would be lucky if I got there before dinner. It was supposed to be less than a 12 hour drive, but that doesn't take in the factors of road conditions and holiday traffic. The snow kept falling, but I managed to make it to the house just ahead of the snowstorm's main bulk. It seemed like everyone was there already from all the cars parked in front of the house. I got out of my car shivering. My jacket barely reduced the cutting chill from icy cold wind. I walked awkwardly to the trunk and pulled out the gifts that I had for gotten. No matter how many times I was in the snow, which wasn't often, I doubted I would ever get used to it. When I was at the door, I took a deep breath. I regretted it immediately because of the frigid air. I quickly opened the door. I was hit by an immediate warmth and brightness as I stepped inside. "Let me help you with that cousin," a silky-smooth voice said to me as I walked in. My cousin Liz walked towards me from the mini sitting area that overlooked the front yard. Just looking at her filled me with warmth. Liz was the cousin that I was the closest to. We were both the only child in our immediate family. Since we were nearly the same age, we had been inseparable at family events, basically since we were born. Liz helped me put my presents under the large Christmas tree near where she had been sitting. As soon as I put the gifts down, she threw her arms around me in a tight hug. I squeezed her back. Out of my family, she had been the one I was looking forward the most to seeing. I hadn't seen her in person in a year, as we had both missed the thanksgiving get-together, this year. We texted infrequently and were friends on Facebook, but she rarely used it. "You look great," I told her. She had her blonde hair in a cute pixie cut, and it was dyed several bright colors going down to the tips. She was wearing a black jacket with a black dress under. Her ears were heavily pierced, and she had a single stud in her nose. Her parents were the extreme religious ones in the family, so they had seemed to stifle Liz her whole life with their beliefs. The moment Liz could, she got out of their household and moved in with some friends. "You're looking great too," Liz said, squeezing my broad shoulders as she pulled away from my hug. I felt my body go warm at her compliment. Liz kept her hand on my shoulders and started to guide me towards the kitchen where most of the family had gathered. "Come on, everyone's been dying to talk to Chris, the golden boy." I felt a little guilty at that, but I knew that Liz didn't mean that as an insult. She was the black sheep, and I was the golden boy. My family were happy to see me, and everyone wanted to spend the entire evening catching up. I enjoyed spending time with them, but it was Liz who I really wanted to catch up with. She spent a lot of the night around me, often raising an eyebrow or giving me a deadpan look when one of my family said something that they shouldn't have. Liz sat next to me at the dinner table, and I finally got some time to talk to her. I tried to ask her about herself, but she seemed to avoid talking about herself and gave me vague answers. We had always been close, so I started to feel confused by this, wondering if maybe in the last year we had finally grown apart. I began to get the hint and stopped bugging her about her personal life. We talked about other things, mostly books and TV shows that we had a shared interest in. Still, it seemed superficial compared to our usual winding conversations that had no limits. Taboo Topics. After dinner, we found ourselves hanging out in the garage. Liz was smoking a cigarette, blowing the smoke through a cracked door that lead to the side of the backyard. This was always the place we would run off to when we wanted to escape the rest of the family. We were doing what we always did, teasing each other. "Come on, you were the one who used to have a crush on me when we were kids," Liz said. That was something that I doubted she was ever going to let me forget about. "Hey, if I remember correctly, you were the one who always wanted to play house and insisted on being husband and wife," I said. "Only so I could kick your lazy ass out when you burned dinner or didn't wash the dishes." "The food was plastic, and we didn't have running water in our playhouse. You didn't have to make me literally sleep in the doghouse!" I said. That was before we had a firm grasp that it was a saying and not literal. "Yes, I did," She said, leaning towards me. I leaned forward. "Why?" "Because it was funny," Liz said. We were leaning so close together, and we both became quiet, which was rare for Liz once she started teasing me. I looked into her beautiful eyes, thinking thoughts that I had been suppressing for years. I couldn't look into her eyes anymore. I thought the year away from her would be enough for me finally to get over my crush on my cousin, but instead, that absence seemed to make those feelings even stronger. I looked up, and my eyes went wide at what I saw nailed above us. Liz looked up and saw what I was looking at. "Mistletoe," Liz said and looked back into my eyes. The part of my brain that held my impulses in check must have been frozen from the cold weather. There was the briefest hesitation, and then we kissed. We wrapped our arms around each other, and the kiss deepened. This is it. It's finally happening. I was surprised by how right something that was supposed to be wrong felt. Now that my urges were finally free, I slid my hand down her back and squeezed her ass through her dress. Liz let out a surprised little moan at that, and she jumped away from my hand and against me. When she settled back down, I started to massage her ass. She moaned and leaned her head back against the wall while arching her lower body towards me and pressing her pelvis into mine. I kissed down her chin and started to kiss her pale neck. With each kiss, she let out tiny little exhales that were both cute and sexy. When I reached the hollow of her neck, I sucked hard. Liz moaned louder this time and ground her snatch into me. I kissed across the front of her neck and repeated the same thing on the other side with the same result. With a finger on my chin, she guided my lips back up to hers. Her succulent lips felt better than I could have ever imagined. Liz lowered a hand down my chest. I thought she was just going to rub my chest, but her hand kept on going lower. I had only a few seconds to realize what she was doing when she grasped my erection through my jeans and rubbed it. I faltered in kissing her because of the unexpected touch. Liz used my distraction to suck on my lip. It all felt so good, and I didn't want it to end. No sooner than when I thought that then I heard one of our family members approaching. We pulled apart quickly and caught our breath as our grandma walked into the garage to get something out of the fridge in there. She said one of our uncles was leaving for the night and for us to say goodbye. "Okay grandma, we will be right there," Liz said. Our grandma left. Liz rested her head on my shoulder, and I held her lightly as we calmed down. Once calmed down, Liz pulled back. Liz looked like she was about to say something but stopped. "Come on, let's go say good night." She didn't seem her usual confident self. I didn't blame her, what we just did had crossed a line that we shouldn't have, but she didn't seem to be upset at what just happened. As I followed her inside, I noticed more sway to her stride that drew attention to her ass. We walked back in and said goodbye to the first of the family to leave. It seemed like that was the cue for others to go because the others started to follow suit. Some of my family stayed at my grandparents' house, while the rest stayed at a nearby hotel. To keep it fair, my grandparents switched out every year who got to stay at their home. My family branch were the lucky ones who got to stay at my grandparents' house that year. Within a couple of hours, the only ones left at the house were my family and Liz's. They finally decided to leave for the night and told Liz that it was time to go now, interrupting her when she was in the middle of a conversation with me. Liz gave me a look and rolled her eyes. "I will be right back." When Liz came back, she told me how her family was leaving and then just stayed with me. "Aren't you going to leave with them?" I asked, confused. "No, I think I am going to stay here and hang out with my favorite cousin." "Okay, cool," I said and smiled. I had been afraid that maybe she was freaked out by our kiss and would want to get away from me as soon as possible. "But you have to give me a ride to the hotel later," Liz added. I did my best to keep my groan inward. After the drive I had, I didn't want to drive again for as long as possible, but if it was for Liz, then I would. "Okay." Liz and I sat in the downstairs living room on a wide loveseat, near the fireplace; as we continued to talk and reconnect after a year apart. She was still elusive when I asked her what she did for work. "It's just some dumb job that I don't like to think about. "So, Do the girls put out more in college?" she asked. "What?" I asked, even though I had heard her. I got flustered as I tried to answer. Liz laughed. "Relax, I was just joking." Around nine my grandparents said goodnight and went upstairs to their bedroom. My parents went up to bed a little later, leaving just Liz and me sitting downstairs alone. Liz asked me again about my dating life. "I don't really know. I am too busy with schoolwork and football. It doesn't really leave me much room for dating," I said. "But I bet girls are throwing themselves at you," Liz said. I thought about lying to her, but we had always told each other everything. "Yeah, there have been some girls that I have hooked up with that I met at parties, but dating never works out, since I am so busy." Liz leaned forward, pressing her hands on my thigh. "Why don't you tell me about one of those times," Liz said. "What; You mean," "Tell me about one of the last times that you hooked up with a girl," Liz said. Her voice became sultry. I hesitated. "Come on, we used to tell each other everything. I told you about what a train wreck the first time I tried to give a guy a blowjob." Liz was right. We used to tell each other everything that happened in our love and sex lives. It was one of the things that had lent so much concrete imagery to my fantasies about being with Liz. "Wasn't that when his pubes got stuck in your braces?" I asked. Liz took her hand off my thigh and hit me on the chest. "At least I didn't come instantly the first time a girl touched me between my legs." "Hey, that happens to a lot of people," I said, no longer enjoying this once I realized that if I wanted to go to war with her on this, that I had probably provided her with more than enough ammunition to take me down. "See. We used to tell each other everything, the good and the bad. I miss that." Liz took my hand and squeezed it. I had been thinking about it as well. "Okay," I said. "I went to one of the fraternity houses parties last year a few nights after we lost our chance of making it to the championship." "The match against the Aztecs?" Liz asked. "Yes, I am surprised you know that." Sports was never something we talked about. "I follow some college football and watched some games. Mostly because number 48 has such a cute ass," Liz said. I couldn't help but go red in the face at her compliment. "Yeah, that game. I was upset that we had lost, so the party was a great way to blow off steam, and I was drinking a bit more than I usually did." Liz laughed but didn't say what I knew she wanted to say. Those who knew me, knew that I couldn't hold my alcohol. Chris and the Sorority Girl. "I was messing around on the dance floor, and there was this beautiful girl out of nowhere dancing right up against me. I hadn't gotten much action for a bit since I was so busy, so when a hot girl started to grind against me, I didn't question it and grinded back." Liz's hand went back to my thigh and gently rubbed it as I told my story. "What happened next?" "The songs that kept on coming up were high energy ones, and we working up a sweat as we danced together. She would press herself right up against my erection and grind back into it, or work her hand down in between us, and she would grab and rub my shaft." Liz started to rub my thigh even harder. "I had my hands on her hips, and she grabbed them and guided them to where I wanted to touch the whole time, Down to her ass which was barely contained in the shorts she was wearing, up to her tits, she wasn't wearing a bra, and then back down, only this time she pressed my hand to the front of her shorts, and I could feel how warm she was and how her wetness was starting to soak through." Liz's hand inched closer towards my cock, but stopped just a couple inches short. "I will be right back," she said and got up, just when things were getting good. Liz came back a couple of minutes later and was holding her AirPods in her hands. "Here," She said, handing me one. "What?" I asked. Liz didn't answer; she just put her AirPod in. Liz had picked an EDM, electronic dance music song. Before I could ask her what she was doing, she grabbed my hand and pulled me to my feet. I stood up, and she guided me up over to the center of the room. "Dance," Liz told me. Since I hadn't had much more than a couple of glasses of wine that night with the family, I was far from being drunk enough to dance without inhibitions, but I decided to indulge her and started to try and dance to the music. A moment later, Liz began to grind her ass against me. She turned around and looked me in the eye as she ran her hands down my broad chest and pressed her body against me. Re-enacting A Dance Scene. I realized that she was enacting my story with me. I danced with Liz, enjoying the songs that she was playing and how she moved her body. I kept my eyes on her, taking in every movement. She moved so perfectly, I wondered when she got so good at dancing. Liz used to be so uncoordinated back when we were kids. She reached down between us. She ran her fingers along my erection, squeezing gently as she did. When on the fourth or fifth song, the high beats per minute songs switched to something a bit slower, and we danced more sensually against each other. Liz guided my hands from her hips down to her ass. I squeezed. It felt as if there was no barrier between her ass and my hands with how soft the material was. I pulled her short dress up and was surprised when I didn't feel any panties on her. I felt her panty line when I had been lowering my hands, So I realized that she must have been wearing a thong. Liz's ass felt so soft and toned, she had always been skinny growing up, but now she seemed to have put on some layers of lean muscle. Liz let me play with her ass for an entire song while she rubbed my erection through my jeans. At the start of the next song, Liz grabbed one of my hands and to pulled it up and around to her front. I knew where she was taking my hand, and I tried to rush my touch along. She set the pace and made me slow down my approach to her tits. When she finally let me put my hand over one of her tits, I started to paw at it roughly in excitement but managed to get a hold of myself and begin to fondle them a bit more gently. As I enjoyed the feel of her tits and ass in my hands, I thought for a moment how this couldn't get any better. I was pleasantly wrong. When the next song started, Liz grabbed my hand from touching her ass. I found my hand pressing against her snatch through her thin dress. Warmth radiated from her cunt as she pressed her body into me. I rubbed at her cunt, and she rubbed my cock up and down, jerking me off through my pants. She began to kiss up my neck, alternating from licking gently to sucking hard. The drop in the song happened, and Liz pulled me down and kissed me deeply. As we made out while dancing, she started to grind against my erection. I felt amazing, but I knew that it was only a small sample of the pleasure she could give me. "What happened next?" Liz asked me after kissing me deeply again. "She grabbed my hand and led me to one of the empty bedrooms," I said. That's when Liz grabbed my hand and led me to the guest bedroom, locking the door behind us. It was the only bedroom on the ground level of the house. "She pushed me down onto the bed." Liz did so. "And then she took off my pants, and before I had time to even think, she had my cock in her mouth and started to blow me." I didn't know if Liz would keep up with following along with the story I was telling, but if she did, then I was going to be glad that I had chosen this one. I wondered if she would do this. Making out and grinding against your cousin was one thing, but a blowjob was crossing even further past that line that I had been staring at for years. Liz reached down and started to undo my pants. I couldn't believe this was really happening when she got my belt open and pulled my pants and boxers down. I raised my hips to make it easier. For a moment, I thought that this might all be for a prank. Liz had been teasing me for years. She had gone through some great lengths in the past to embarrass me. I knew this was a paranoid thought, but it held for a moment. My erection sprung free, close to Liz's mouth as she continued to pull my pants down. She looked down at my cock for a moment. This would be the time for her to stop before we did something that we maybe shouldn't. I wasn't going to voice any complaints, it had all felt so good and right so far, but if she was too scared to take things even further, then I wouldn't blame her. Liz leaned down and kissed the tip of my erection. She swirled her tongue around the top of my erection and then started to take me into her mouth. I let out a moan as she made it halfway down my cock and continued to take it all the way in. Liz was beautiful, and the added taboo of my cousin sucking my cock made it look and feel even better. I watched intently as Liz took my entire seven inches into her mouth. When she got to the end, she deepthroated my cock without even pausing. I moaned again. Liz slowly pulled her mouth back off it. Once back up to the top, Liz sucked deeply on my cock head, her cheeks hollowing inwards. Liz effortlessly sucked on my cock. This was the best blowjob I had ever had. She was not only skilled at doing this, but she also did it eagerly. Liz licked from the bottom to top, using her tongue piercing to trace a path up along my shaft. I shivered as she pressed the metal up along my shaft. I had always had fantasies of having a girl with a tongue piercing blow me. Liz made it to the top of my shaft and twirled her tongue around my cock again, holding eye contact with me as she did it. She then licked at the sensitive part at the bottom of my cock head. The alternating feeling of her soft, warm tongue and the smoothness of the metal there made me moan again, louder this time. "Quiet," Liz scolded me, but I could tell in her voice that she was happy that she could cause me to have such a reaction. Liz blew me to the frantic beat of the song we were listening to. It all felt and looked so good. I was getting close to cumming, but I tried to hold back. Liz started to massage my balls with one hand, jerking me off with the other. She bobbed her head and moved her hand in one motion, touching most of my cock at once. When she would stroke downward, she would let go with all but her thumb and forefinger so that she could still take nearly all of me into her mouth, and then in her upward motion would add back the fingers as she jerked me off. Lips of Liz. "Liz, I'm getting close," I groaned. Liz redoubled her efforts at blowing me and somehow managed to blow me even better than before. A minute was all I could last with this increased stimulation, and I grunted that I was about to cum. Liz blew me even harder and took me back into her throat. The soft pressure was too much, and I started to cum. I shot my first couple of loads right into her throat. Liz swallowed a couple of times, something that felt amazing with me still in her throat. She pulled back a little so the last couple of loads filled her mouth. Liz continued to blow me while milking the last of my cum up and out before swallowing one last time. "So, how was that, compared to the girl in your story?" Liz asked as she wiped off her mouth. "That was the best blow job I ever had," I said. I was still feeling such strong bliss that I was unable to not tell the truth. I only hoped me saying that wouldn't get to her head. Liz pulled her dress over her head. She was wearing a matching lacey black bra and panties. The black lingerie looked great against her pale skin. She climbed on top of me, and we started to make out. I began to play with her tits through her bra. Liz reached back and unclipped it so that it fell off under my touch. I continued to play with her perky tits, amazed finally to be touching them directly. I played with her nipples and her nipple piercings, gently pulling on them. Liz moaned into our kiss. Liz broke off the kiss and straightened up over my mouth, bringing her tits in closer. I leaned up and latched onto one of her nipples. She moaned loudly and pulled my head against her tits. I sucked harder. Liz held my head against her tit, and I opened my mouth, sucking most of her perky tit into my mouth. I could feel the heat and wetness from her sex as she straddled against my chest. I switched over to her other nipple, sucking hard on it. Liz started to grind her cunt into my chest as I continued to suck hard on her tits. I swirled my tongue around her nipple, and she moaned loudly. I told Liz that she needed to be quiet, and she answered me by pushing me back down so that I was lying on my back. She climbed over the top of me until her snatch, in all its glory, was spread out above me. As she lowered, I eagerly leaned up and stuck my tongue in between her lips. I alternated between licking along her outer lips and slipping my tongue inside of her. Even her snatch tasted better than any other girl who I had gone down on before. I flicked my tongue up and along her clit after a couple of minutes of ignoring it on purpose. Liz's entire body shook when I finally licked it, and she pressed her snatch down onto my mouth. Each additional lick caused her a mini spasm. As I ate her out, Liz started to grind her snatch down onto my mouth, timing her movements against my licks so that there would be the most amount of contact between us. She to pressed her snatch down onto my mouth for increasing amounts of time, making it hard to breathe sometimes, but I loved having her snatch right up against my mouth. As she rode my face, I was able to stick my tongue even deeper inside of her. It seemed like the deeper my tongue went, the better her snatch tasted. Reluctantly, I pulled back to catch my breath. When I went to lick her clit, she was rubbing it. I pushed my tongue deep inside of her. I did my best to take my time and focus on how Liz responded to what I did. I wanted to make Liz cum, but I knew that this wouldn't feel good for her if I tried to rush it. She seemed to like it when I would lick along the top of her snatch, licking her clit when she moved her fingers away to let me have access to it. As her orgasm approached, I did something that I knew would surprise her. When I pulled my tongue out of her, I shifted down a little and flicked my tongue along her anus. It was a good thing that Liz had her face pushed down onto the pillow because when I flicked my tongue across it, she moaned loudly into the bedding. I licked along the edge of her anus, and she moaned again. I worked my tongue closer from the edge. When I finally pressed my tongue against the center, she shivered. I reached up and started to rub along her anus with my fingers while I went back to licking her cunt. I began to rub her rosebud right at the center and then pressed my finger inside of her. When I worked the tip of my finger inside of her, she froze up. I was afraid that I had overstepped in doing this to her. I started to pull my finger back out of her. "No, leave it in," Liz said, so I did. Liz began to hump again against my face. She moved slower as she pushed my finger slowly in and out of her ass. Liz built back up to speed, my finger working its way in and out of her. She must have done anal before because she seemed to get used to my finger inside of her quickly. Liz built back up to her orgasm and started to grind against my mouth and finger even harder. She let out a loud muffled moan, and then she shook on top of me as she came. She pressed her cunt against my mouth and her ass clenched around my finger. Liz let out one last moan, and then she went limp on top of me. Liz climbed off it and under the blankets. I didn't know what to do when she called me to join her in bed. Once I was under the covers, she pressed her naked body against me. I was grateful for her body warmth; this room was always coldest in the house. Sleep came easily to me with Liz in my arms. Christmas Morning. I woke up at five in the morning on Christmas Day, feeling incredibly warm. I wondered where the source of the warmth was coming from. As I moved my hand, I felt the suppleness of a tit. The memories of last night came flooding back. I was in bed with my cousin Liz! I knew that I should get up soon before anyone else in the house woke up and discovered Liz in bed with me. The door was locked, but if we emerged from a locked room together, that would look strange. I kept telling myself to get up and go lay on the couch, but then I would tell myself that another five minutes wouldn't hurt. Liz's naked and warm body pressed against me just felt too good. I had forgotten that Liz was a snorer, which I thought was cute but would be making fun of her for later. Finally, when it was close to six, I forced myself to get up. I grabbed a blanket from out of the closet and a pillow from the bed. It was a delicate maneuver since Liz was somehow on every pillow at once. After I managed to pull one pillow out from under her arm, I looked down on Liz's beautiful naked body; she had kicked off the covers as I went to grab a pillow. She wasn't covered in tattoos yet, but the ones she did have, looked cool and accented her pale, beautiful body. I pulled the blanket back over her and kissed her on her forehead. Her brow lost its furrow, she smiled, and stopped stirring in her sleep. I got dressed and went back to the living room with the fireplace. The couch was so plush that I fell asleep quickly. The smell of bacon frying and the sound of cooking in the kitchen woke me up. I wanted to get up and investigate, but it was so warm under the blanket. I decided to wait to get up until breakfast was fully ready. I felt someone standing over me, and then a moment later, I was being poked in the ribs. "Wake up sleepy head, breakfast is almost ready, and the whole family is almost here." I rolled out from the blanket and looked up. Liz was wearing a pink apron with white frills on the edges that contrasted with her black band t-shirt and ripped jeans that she knew drove her parents crazy. "Nice apron." "Are you sure you want to make fun of the person who is going to be serving your food?" Liz asked. "Point taken. It looks good on you." "Sure," Liz said and walked back towards the kitchen. I watched her walk, admiring the sway of her hips and the way her jeans clung to her ass. When Liz was nearly back into the kitchen, she looked around and caught me checking her out. She smiled at me, and then she was in the kitchen and then out of sight behind a counter. I had been worried that maybe things would be weird between us after what had happened between us the night before, but things seemed to be okay. I felt a weight lifted from inside as I realized what happened wouldn't drive a wedge between Liz and me. I folded up my blanket and returned it and the pillow back where they came from. Liz had left the bed unmade. I shook my head at her and made the bed back up, which was a struggle with how much she had kicked the blankets and under sheet around during the night. Once the bed was made, I used the restroom and walked into the kitchen. My entire family was there, seated at the small table or on the barstool chairs, drinking coffee or orange juice. "It's about time you are up. You never sleep in," my mom said, handing me a glass of orange juice. "It's my fault. I kept him up late last night catching up and talking," Liz said. "That's why you didn't come back to your hotel room last night?" Liz's mom asked. "Yeah, it got too late for Christo take me home, so he let me have the guest room and slept on the couch," Liz said. "We thought you went out," Liz's mom said. There was so much venom in her voice as she said that, as if going out for a night on the town was one of the vilest things she could imagine. "Geeze, mom, it's not like I am going to go out and fuck some random guy on Christmas Eve when I am in town to be with family. I spent all night with Chris, so unless you think I fucked my cousin last night, then you have nothing to worry about." The whole kitchen fell silent at this, and I nearly spit out my orange juice at what Liz just said. I guess what she said was technically true, we didn't have sex last night, but I still couldn't believe that she said that to her mom. Liz's mom did what she did whenever she got embarrassed by some vulgar thing Liz said, and she stormed away. Liz's dad gave her a look and followed his wife. It wasn't a family get together if Liz's mom didn't storm away at least once. It seemed good that the quota had been met so early in the day because the rest of the family went right back to what they were doing. When breakfast was ready, everyone grabbed a plate and went to the mountain of breakfast food to load up their plates. Christmas breakfast wasn't as formal as dinner, where we would all eat together in the dining room. The dining room and kitchen were full, so we went out to the heated porch to eat. "I still can't believe you said that to your mom," I said to Liz as we sat down. "Hey, technically, it was the truth. I am tired of her constantly trying to degrade me in front of the family just because I am not in college, not because I need to get an education, but in her words, that's where I need to be if I want to find a good man to settle down with. All she wants of me is to be some housewife. Don't even get me started on all of the times she told me I was going to be going to hell," Liz said exasperatedly. "Yeah, technically it was the truth, but still crazy that you said it," I said. I took a bite of perfectly crispy bacon. "Relax, they wouldn't put something crazy like that past me doing, but it's not like they are going to think bad of the family's golden boy," Liz said. I hated whenever she called me that, and it usually would get to me enough for me to call her something back, but I was in too good of a mood to let her goad me into one of our usual arguments. I started to talk lower and hated getting serious so suddenly, but I didn't want to leave things vague between us. If I didn't ask, I would worry all day, and I would rather face the issue than leave myself wondering about it all day. "So, you don't regret anything about what happened last night?" I asked. Liz looked like she was about to say another joke, but she seemed to change my mind when she saw how serious I was. "I don't have any regrets about last night. I enjoyed it, and you did too. What is there to regret?" "Nothing, I just wanted to make sure things are still okay between us." "Don't worry , cuz, I think things are more than okay between us." I nearly jumped when I felt Liz's hand on my thigh. Liz smiled at me, that same smile that she gave me last night when she was about to blow me. Liz rubbed her hand on my thigh. "What does that mean?" I asked. "I think you can figure it out," Liz said and pulled her hand away. "Wait, did you just use my pants as a napkin?" "Yep," Liz said as she grabbed our empty plates and got up to take them to the kitchen. After breakfast, we did the gift exchange under the large fake Christmas tree, like we always did. I thought it was a little weird that we still did this tradition even though the youngest in the family were too old for it, but no one so far had started to have kids yet. It was messed up, but most of my family had thought Liz would be the first to have a kid, from my cousins and me, most likely in high school, according to Liz's mom, but Liz seemed smart and stubborn enough to not prove them right. I loved my family, but some of them were really fucked up when it came to Liz. I always tried to be the mediator and hold the family together when there were fights, but it took a lot out of me. I had to admit that even though we were too old for some of these traditions, I still enjoyed them, even if they were also annoying. I had to be so much for so many people, back at school that it was nice to come home and just focus on how my family saw me and on myself. The version of myself that my family saw, was also tough to uphold, but it was sometimes the closest version of myself. Family Memories on video. After the present exchange, my grandparents got out the scrapbooks and home movies and reminisced about past holidays and events. Liz sat next to me, cramming me into the edge of the sofa. With so many of us in the living room with the fireplace, all the seats were full. Other chairs had been carried over from the kitchen. Liz was pressed right against me, her familiar warmth a constant reminder of last night. As the trips down the well-traveled memory lane were trodden down yet again, Liz initially tried to act like she was bored and didn't care. Before long, she joined in the retelling of family events, usually to defend herself when a story was brought up about something bad that she had done. Still, I could tell that she enjoyed spending this time with her family. Those conversations were some of the only times Liz and her mom talked to each other without any malice, as they remembered their stories. I got a warm feeling in my stomach from all of this. Some things had changed, but they were still close enough for me to be able to slip back into the nostalgia. Throughout the day, Liz would do little things to remind me of the previous night. When it was just us or when no one was looking, Liz would whisper filthy things into my ear and pat me on the ass or grab at my crotch. I would get red in the face. Every time I tried to say something to her, another family member would always pop up, so I would have to stop what I was about to say. I would give Liz a look, telling her that I would say something later, but she would just smile or shrug. She always seemed her happiest when she was messing with me. We had Christmas dinner early. This time everyone sat together at the dining room table. My grandparents said grace, and then we started to eat. I was surprised that Liz and her mom managed to get along the whole day after their argument in the morning. This second party was even better than the one the night before. Everyone seemed to be in the holiday spirit. I wanted the day to last forever, so of course, time flew by. Before I knew it, family members started to go back to their hotels, and then everyone was off to bed again. Liz chose to stay longer and hang out with me again. We found ourselves on the couch again, watching TV together. We were originally sitting on opposite ends of the couch, but the moment the last of our family went up to go to bed, Liz scooted over and lay against me. Having her be close again, and us finally be alone, made my heart thump wildly from nerves. I wondered if anything was going to happen again between us, and if so, what? I hadn't felt this nervous around a girl in years. I wrapped an arm around her, and Liz snuggled up against me. To be continued. Based on a post by storyteller 19, for Literotica. Holidays With Cousin Liz: Part 2. Liz has a present for Chris. Based on a post by storyteller 19. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. We watched TV together for an hour, mostly in silence, which was rare for Liz, who loved to talk during TV and movies. Nearly the whole time, I was hard, but as turned on as I was by having Liz close again, I also didn't want to try and force things by starting something with her prematurely. It felt right to be holding Liz, and I didn't want to rush things. When it was nearly ten, Liz turned off the TV. She reached up and grabbed at my face and gently caressed it. I looked down at her, and we looked into each other's eyes. Her face was lit by the warm glow of the fireplace. She looked so beautiful. I leaned in and we kissed each other, slowly and sensually. This seemed so different from how she was last night, but not better or worse. Last night, we acted like we satisfied a hunger after starving, but on that second night together, we started out slower and more sweetly. We sat on the couch, making out for nearly a half-hour. Liz broke the kiss, and we looked into each other's eyes in the dimly lit room. Liz stood up and grabbed the fireplace poker. she stirred the remnant pieces apart and the fire transformed to a red glow. She adjusted the damper to a slight ventilation and put the tool away. Turning to me, she smiled, then grabbed my hand. I got up and then she led me into her bedroom. Liz closed the door and locked it. She went back to kissing me, pressing me against the wall. Once we were behind closed doors, she continued our liplock while she swiftly unbuckled, unsnapped, and unzipped my jeans. Swiftly she reached down into my bozers and quickly found my straining erection, and started jerking me off. I kissed down Liz's neck, sucking hard on it and making her moan. I kissed down her collarbone and the top of her chest, pulling at her Aerosmith T-shirt to kiss more of her chest. Liz pulled off her shirt, and I kissed her cleavage. She swiftly unhooked her bra and shrugged it off so that I didn't even have to pause on my way down to her nipples. I licked around her areola and then flicked my tongue across one of her nipples. As she started to moan, I latched onto her tit and began to suck on it, causing her to moan even louder. Liz ran her free hand through my hair. I took nearly all of a tit into my mouth while lapping against it with my tongue and then sucked on it, pulling on her sensitive nipples. I switched back and forth between each of her tits. Liz pulled her hand out of my pants and slipped them down further. Once they were loose, she pulled me back up to kiss her. She flicked her tongue across my lip, and then I met her tongue with mine, and we started to french kiss. Liz pulled my college sweatshirt shirt up and over my head. Once my shirt was on the floor, she sucked and nibbled my lip, and then started to kiss down my neck, rougher than she was last night. I was afraid that she was intentionally trying to leave me a hickey from how hard she was sucking on my neck. Even though it would be so stupid, I wanted some physical mark to prove to myself that this was happening with my beautiful cousin a second night in a row. Liz kissed her way down my chest. When she got down to my stomach, she pulled my pants the rest of the way down, along with my boxers. My rock-hard cock sprung up, nearly smacking Liz on the mouth as she dropped down to her knees. I slipped my feet out of my pants and kicked them away. Liz grabbed my pants and kicked them against the crack in the door, hiding that the lamp light was on. She wrapped her hand around my rigid phallus and held it at its base. Her other hand cupped under my ball-sack and fondled the two boulders within. I shivered in pleasure when Liz looked up at me with those beautiful eyes of hers and kissed the tip of my cock. She seemed to make out with it as she kissed, licked, and sucked on the top of my cock. Everything she did felt great, and being able to better see her doing it, made it feel even better. She skilfully rubbed her tongue along the sensitive frenulum while her lips locked tightly, to hold my glans ridge captive to her lustful intents. Then she leaned down and pressed her tongue onto my ball sack, licking against my balls. I hadn't been expecting her to do that, and I couldn't help but moan. Liz took one of my balls into her mouth and sucked on it. It made me feel vulnerable to her passions, but it also felt so good that it almost hurt. Liz knew just the right amount of pressure to use. She stroked me in long slow strokes as she sucked on my balls, first one, then the other, and then both at the same time. Most girls I had been with usually ignored my balls if they even gave me a blowjob, so I wasn't used to having so much time spent on them. After sucking on my balls for a few minutes, Liz put her lips back onto my cock, only this time she started to take me all the way into her mouth. In one quick motion, she took my entire length into her mouth. I moaned as she took me effortlessly into her throat. Liz held there for a minute and then slowly pulled back off my cock to catch her breath. My entire cock was coated in her saliva. Liz took a couple of breaths and then took me back into her mouth. She started to blow me quickly, her lips sliding up and down my cock effortlessly; her tongue rubbing me in a firm swallowing motion, over and over. Liz would alternate from looking down at what she was working on; and looking up at me while she blew me. When she looked me in the eyes, it turned me on so much, but it also seemed oddly intimate, and I felt slightly vulnerable as we looked at one another. After blowing me for a couple of minutes, Liz took me back all the way into her throat and held my cock there again. While I was deep inside of her, she rapidly stroked at the underside of my cock with her tongue. She kept me inside of her mouth for a minute and a half and then pulled back from my cock with a gasp. I thought she would go back to blowing me, but instead, Liz stood up, grabbed my cock, and walked towards the bed. Liz undid her pants with her other hand, and dropped them to the floor as she walked. She lay down on her back and pulled me on top of her, kissing me deeply, I straddled over her, our naked bodies pressed against each other. She reached down between us, grasped my cock, and started to rub it against her cunt lips. I froze up at the warmth and softness of her cunt. Liz nestled my cock between her cunt lips. "I want you inside of me," Liz breathed in between kisses as she started to move so that her cunt rubbed against the tip of my cock. "I want you, too," I said and then, in a moment of honesty, added, "I have wanted you for so long." "I know. Why do you think I have teased you so much all these years?" Liz said, raising her lips so that the head of my cock slipped ever so slightly more inside of her. "To annoy me?" I asked. "That's part of it." Liz laughed. "But the other reason is that I have wanted you too," Liz said. I had one last moment of doubt if I should do this or not. Liz nibbled my earlobe. "I want you to fuck me." There was so much desire in Liz's voice. I didn't know what to say to that, but I knew what I could do in response. Going All The Way. I inched forward to both enjoy this moment and make it easy in case Liz decided to change her mind. She kept on kissing me, so I continued to press forward. I slowly worked my way inside of her. She was tight and incredibly wet. It was hard not to just thrust all the way inside of her. Being inside of Liz felt so good for so many reasons. When I bottomed out inside of her, she let out a little gasp, her body arching in pleasure at the contact of me deep inside of her. I froze in place for a moment to take in the sensation of her cunt wrapped around my cock. After getting used to the fantastic feeling of her cunt I pulled nearly all the way out and then thrust back into her quickly. Liz let out a satisfied moan when she took me fully inside of her. I tried to start off slow, but Liz humped up against me, meeting my downward thrusts. It felt too good for us to take it slow, and before long, we were fucking quickly. She held onto my shoulders, holding her body up off the bed to give her better space to thrust back up against me, or she clenched at my ass, pulling me in deeper with each thrust. Fucking Liz felt so right. It seemed like we instantly knew what the other one was going to do before they did it. Every thrust was timed perfectly to ensure the highest amount of pleasure between us. It didn't take me long to work up a sweat, my body feeling both hot and cold. I was starting to get a little out of breath. If we kept up at this pace, I wouldn't last for as long. I was glad for the release from the previous night, without which I would have come instantly when I first entered her. Liz stopped humping up against me and pressed her hand against my chest. I got off her, and she pushed me down onto my back and straddled me. She held my erection in place just at the entrance of her cunt, and then she lowered herself, taking my entire cock in one quick motion. Her cunt felt even better in this position. Liz leaned down and kissed me as she started to rock her ass up and down, working my cock against the top of her snatch as she rode my cock. I laid there for a couple of minutes, enjoying the feel of Liz perfectly riding my cock. I grabbed her perfect ass and could feel her muscles tighten and loosen as she humped me. I rocked my hips in time with her. Before long, we worked our way back to the quick pace we had built up to before. Liz started to moan more and took shallow breaths as we continued to fuck. It felt good, but it was too good; I could feel each stroke bringing me closer to an orgasm. I didn't want to cum before Liz got off. There was no guarantee that anything would happen again between us. If we were going to break this taboo together, I wanted to make sure to make this the best sex possible. Without breaking the rhythm of riding my cock she pushed on my chest and straightened up so that she was straddling my cock. Immediately her cunt felt even tighter around my cock as she continued to ride me. We both moaned at the same time. Liz pulled up so that just the tip of my cock was inside of her, and then she slammed down, taking it all in at once before pulling right back up and doing it again. I grabbed at her hips and used them to help me better slide in and out of her. Every few strokes, when Liz would take me all the way inside of her, she wouldn't pull back off immediately; instead, she would do a little grinding against me so that my cock pressed even more against her cunt walls. After a few times of doing that, Liz added that grinding motion as she went up and down on my cock, making it feel even better with each stroke. I loved the way her tits bounced as she rode up and down on my cock, and the way her face would contort in pleasure when I timed a thrust perfectly or hit her in a new sensitive spot. I was getting too close to my orgasm, but Liz seemed to be breathing heavier. She started to rub at her clit while supporting herself by leaning back onto the bed with the other hand, so I hoped that she was close enough to cum before me. It gave me a better view of my cock disappearing in and out of her tight cunt with her leaning back. My cock was soaked in her juices and made me slide in and out of her with ease. She started to rock back and forth on my cock, and her fingers rubbed furiously against her clit. Liz's moans got so loud that I was afraid that we would wake up our family, but at this point, I was too far along to do anything to stop. "Awe Chris, that's it, fuck me harder," Liz said. I held onto her hips tighter and started to fuck her even harder. "Yes, yes, yes, fuck me," Liz moaned. I knew that if we kept up like this, our family would hear. I sat up and pulled Liz off me. "Why?" She asked in a huff. I pushed her down on all fours, moved around behind her, put my hands on her hips, and then entered her fully from behind in rough thrust. Liz let out a pleasure-filled, "Oh," as I bottomed out inside of her. Liz arched her ass up against me and pressed her face down onto the bed. I had dreamed about taking Liz from behind for so long, and now that I was close to cumming I made sure to enjoy my fantasy come to life. Liz started to hump back against me. I could hear her moaning loudly into the bedding. I was surprised by how much her muffled moans turned me on. I felt her place her hand back onto her clit, and she started to rub it again. I could hear Liz's muffled moans get even louder, and then she stopped humping against my cock. She pressed her cunt back against me, taking my cock inside of her and then rocking randomly against it as her orgasm hit. As she came, I stopped holding back. I thrust into her a few more times, and with a grunt, I started to cum inside her. I held onto Liz's hips to steady myself as my body went numb with pleasure as I shot my loads inside of her as we came together. Liz's random humps slowed down as her orgasm passed, and she slowly rode my cock. When she finally stopped, I pulled out of her and laid on the bed beside her, catching my breath. Liz stayed like that for a moment with her ass up in the air, and then she laid on her side facing me. We scooted towards each other and wrapped our arms around each other. We lay like that for some time. "That was;" I started to say but didn't know the words for it. Liz leaned forward and kissed me sweetly. "I know," she said. I lay there not believing what finally happened when suddenly a thought interrupted my bliss, and I nearly jumped out of bed. Liz placed one of my hands between her tits and cradled it there with her hands as I wrapped my other hand around her. Her heart was beating so fast, just like mine. "What?" Liz asked. "I came in you, I shouldn't have done that, if you get," Liz put a hand to my chest and a finger to my lips. "Calm down. I wanted you to do that, it makes it feel even better, and I am on the pill, so you don't have to worry," Liz said. "Oh, okay, good," I said, embarrassed by my outburst, and wrapped my arms back around Liz. "Merry Christmas," Liz said. "Yeah, the best merry Christmas," I said with a smile. A few minutes later, Liz got up and grabbed the towel that I had used earlier in the day. "I will be right back. I am going to go clean up," Liz said and walked out of the room. There was a bathroom right across from the bedroom, but I still thought it was crazy that Liz walked out of the room naked. I lay there with my fingers laced behind my head as I stared up at the ceiling, a smile on my face as I rode the post-sex endorphin rush. Liz stepped back inside and gently closed the door behind her. I watched as she walked towards me and climbed into bed, trying my best to ingrain the image of her naked body into my memory. Liz climbed into bed beside me, rested her head on my chest, and pressed her body against me. I held her with one arm and played with her hair. I knew she was awake for a time, but neither one of us said anything. Before long, I heard her start to snore loudly against my chest, so loud that it woke me up when I was nearly drifting off to sleep. I smiled and lay there for a few minutes, holding her and listening to her snore. Couch Time. When I was starting to drift back off to sleep, even with her snoring, I knew that I better move out to the living room before I fell asleep with Liz again. After that night's physical exertions, I doubted that I would be able to wake up again this morning. I carefully got out of bed to not wake Liz again, but I knew that she was a deep sleeper. My theory had always been that her snores made her deaf to the world as she slept. I pulled the blanket over her and tucked her in. After I got dressed, I kissed on the top of her head. I grabbed my blanket and managed to sneak a pillow again off the bed, and I went back out to the living room. It took me some time to fall asleep even though I was exhausted. I wanted nothing more than to go back into the room and sleep beside Liz but knew that I couldn't. After some tossing and turning, I finally fell asleep. I woke up to someone kissing me. I opened my eyes, and Liz beamed down at me. "Good morning," Liz said. It was still so early that the sun hadn't fully started to rise. "Good morning," I said. I sat up, and Liz climbed onto my lap. She wrapped her arms around my neck and held me tightly as she kissed me deeply. As we kissed, my fear that last night was going to be the only time we had sex evaporated. Liz kissed me like how you kissed a lover, and while I didn't know what exactly was going to happen in the future, I knew that the last couple of nights wouldn't be stand-alone events. "My family is on their way to say goodbye, and then I am going to head back to the hotel with them to pack up my stuff." "Oh," I said. Liz lived in Portland, several states away from her family. "So, my flight leaves later today, but I was wondering, since you don't have school for a few weeks, if you wanted to come and visit me," Liz asked, looking down as she spoke. I realized that she was nervous about asking me this. My fearless cousin Liz, nervous at asking me to visit her over my Christmas break. If I hadn't just had sex with Liz the night before, then seeing her nervous about something would have been the craziest thing that happened to me this weekend. I didn't say anything for a moment, and she looked up at me expectantly. "While I mean, I did have some plans," I said. When she started to pout, I couldn't go on with it, "Yeah, I can come to visit you." "You jerk, you were just stalling," Liz said as she threw her arms around me and gave me another huge kiss. I already had morning wood from when I woke up, and I got even harder as Liz started to dry hump me. I began to play with her tits when we heard footsteps coming down the steps. She jumped off me and gave me one last peck on the lips before running back into the guest room. I smiled. I was so used to seeing Liz be sarcastic and aloof; it was odd seeing this sweet side of her. I thought about that for a bit as I laid back down to look like I was still asleep. Liz took a shower first. When she emerged, she was wearing one of my T-shirts without asking, but I loved seeing her in it, so I didn't say anything to her. By the time I took a shower, more family had shown up, including Liz's. They stayed for a couple of hours to have a small breakfast and coffee before they were going to head back to the hotel and pack up. Liz and I spent every possible moment together. Not only did she give me her phone number to make sure we kept in better touch, but she also took my phone and added her Snapchat and Instagram accounts to my phone. I rarely used the apps, and I told her so, but she told me I better use them to talk to her; otherwise, I would regret it. I knew that we would see each other again soon, but I didn't want to see her leave. I walked her and her family to their rented car when it was time for them to drive back to the hotel. Our hug goodbye lingered until we reluctantly let go. As Liz was getting in the car, she checked her purse and said how her phone wasn't in it and that she must have left it in the guest room. She said she would be right back to her family and asked me to come with her to call her phone with mine. "So, where did you last see it?" I asked Liz when we walked into the room. "Right here in my bag," Liz said, holding up her phone. "Why did you say you didn't have it?" I asked her. "So that I could give you a proper goodbye," Liz said as she hugged again, but this time also kissed me. We kissed deeply for several minutes, neither one of us wanting to break off the kiss. Our kisses started to die down, and we tried to stop, but we kept on doing small kisses. We were both left panting when we finally pulled apart. "I want you so badly again," Liz said as she rested her head on my shoulder. "Me too. I don't want to see you go." "Promise you will visit me soon." "I promise," I said, already planning on seeing her as soon as possible. We walked back out to our gathered family. "Sorry it took so long. I had my phone on silent," Liz said as we walked back up. Liz gave me one last hug and then got into the car, and they drove away. I watched them leave, feeling an odd sense of loneliness. I went back to the guest room and laid in the same bed that we had had sleepovers in together when we were kids, the same bed that last night we had sex for the first time in. I pressed the pillow that she laid on last night against my face and inhaled her scent. I lay on my back and pressed the pillow to my face, and inhaled. I felt my phone go off in my pocket. I checked it, and Liz told me that they had made it back to the hotel. She asked me what I was doing, and I told her how I was lying in bed. She called me lazy, and I asked her how I could be both lazy and an overachiever at the same time? She somehow avoided answering me, even though I was confident that I was bringing up a good point. I stayed one more day at my grandparents with my family, and then the next day, I drove home. I wasn'
The aging of America will reshape how we live and will transform nearly every aspect of contemporary society. Renowned life course sociologist Deborah Carr provides a lively, nuanced, and timely portrait of aging in the United States. The US population is older than ever before, raising new challenges for families, caregivers, health care systems, and social programs like Social Security and Medicare. Organized in seven chapters, Aging in America (U California Press, 2023) covers these topics: the history of aging and the development of theoretical approaches how cultural changes shape our views on aging the demographic characteristics of older adults today older adults' family lives and social relationships the health of older adults and social disparities in who gets sick how public policies affect the well-being of older adults and their families how baby boomers, Gen Xers, and millennials will experience old age Drawing on state-of-the-art data, current events, and pop culture, this portrait of an aging population challenges outdated myths and vividly shows how future cohorts of older adults will differ from the generations before them. Rachel Pagones is an acupuncturist, educator, and author based in Cambridge, England. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Steve: I don't let any discomfort… be a factor in my performance.Aptera has been guided from the beginning by a simple idea: use the least possible energy to travel from point A to point B. That guiding principle shapes everything about the vehicle's radical design. As Steve Fambro explained in today's episode, “Aptera is about using the least amount of energy to go from point A to point B,” emphasizing that efficiency isn't a feature of the car, it is the car.Steve, Aptera's co CEO and co founder, walked through the engineering mindset that makes their approach unique. As an electrical engineer, he thinks in terms of systems and losses, so the team engineered the vehicle from the ground up to minimize drag and weight. The result is a three wheeled, solar integrated EV that consumes just 100 watt hours per mile, less than half of what even skilled hypermiling drivers typically achieve. Steve put it simply: “The low drag, the lightweight, and the integrated solar... those are the three parts of the equation to give it that magic.”As reservation holders continue to express enthusiasm, Steve's real world perspective keeps the story grounded. The team is focused on scaling responsibly, leaning on experienced partners like Roush to engineer critical elements for mass production. Aptera's early journey wasn't linear. Steve and his co founder Chris faced misalignment with hired leadership and ultimately watched the original company collapse while they pursued other ventures. Returning with lessons learned, new battery capabilities, and a stronger market, they rebuilt Aptera on firmer foundations.Today the world is meeting them where they are. Their reservation count exceeded early expectations almost overnight. Media attention, including a recent appearance on Jay Leno's show, signaled not just curiosity but genuine enthusiasm.The story of Aptera represents more than another EV. It reflects a reframing of what efficient transportation can look like and illustrates how a focused engineering question can lead to reshaping an entire market.tl;dr:Aptera Motors is revolutionizing EVs with hyper-efficient, solar-powered vehicles designed for maximum energy efficiency.The vehicle's aerodynamic shape and lightweight materials minimize drag and energy consumption.Aptera's integrated solar panels can add up to 40 miles of range per day.Thousands of preorders signal strong demand as Aptera prepares for production next year.Steve Fambro's focus on efficiency and perseverance drives Aptera's mission for sustainable transportation.How to Develop Self-Deprivation As a SuperpowerSteve Fambro's superpower is his ability to deprive himself of comforts for as long as necessary to finish a job. Drawing from his military experience, Steve shared, “I don't let any discomfort… be a factor in my performance.” He described how he can work in extreme heat or go without sleep, food, or rest when required. This skill allows him to focus on achieving his goals without distraction, no matter the challenges.Steve recounted how this superpower helped him during Aptera's early days, as well as in his previous ventures. For example, while working in the Middle East, he endured long hours in 120-degree heat alongside a construction crew, refusing to let discomfort slow him down. His willingness to push himself, even in challenging conditions, has been key to his success.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Practice self-discipline by intentionally depriving yourself of small comforts periodically.Embrace stoic philosophy to build mental resilience and adaptability.Focus on your goals rather than temporary discomfort to stay motivated.Learn from experiences that push you outside your comfort zone, such as travel or challenging work conditions.By following Steve's example and advice, you can make self-deprivation a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileSteve Fambro (he/him):co-CEO/Founder, Aptera MotorsAbout Aptera Motors: Aptera's mission is to create the most efficient transportation on the planet. We achieve this by leveraging breakthroughs in battery efficiency, aerodynamics, material science and manufacturing. Aptera is the first in a line of Solar Electric Vehicles (sEVs) being produced by Aptera Motors that are powered by the sun and won't need charging for most daily use. We're an efficiency-obsessed brand offering an array of safe, comfortable, and fun to drive vehicles.Website: aptera.usLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/apteramotorsCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/ApteraMotors3.0Twitter Handle: @aptera_motors Instagram Handle: @aptera_motors Biographical Information: Venture partner and COO of Ocean Holding, an investment and development company dedicated to advancing the use of clean, renewable energy. Founder of Famgro; raised $8m to launch a super-efficient pesticide/herbicide-free indoor food-production system.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/steve-fambro-184b515Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, SuperGreen Live, and Envirosult. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you're preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
We get an update from a Minneapolis educator about how they won a new contract after a credible strike threat. We also talk to Dave Kamper about his new book - Who's Got the Power?✦ ABOUT ✦The Valley Labor Report is the only union talk radio show in Alabama, elevating struggles for justice and fairness on the job, educating folks about how they can do the same, and bringing relevant news to workers in Alabama and beyond.Our single largest source of revenue *is our listeners* so your support really matters and helps us stay on the air!Make a one time donation or become a monthly donor on our website or patreon:TVLR.FMPatreon.com/thevalleylaborreportVisit our official website for more info on the show, membership, our sponsors, merch, and more: https://www.tvlr.fmFollow TVLR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheValleyLab...Follow TVLR on Twitter: @LaborReportersFollow Jacob on Twitter: @JacobM_ALFollow TVLR Co-Creator David Story on Twitter: @RadiclUnionist✦ CONTACT US ✦Our phone number is 844-899-TVLR (8857), call or text us live on air, or leave us a voicemail and we might play it during the show!✦ OUR ADVERTISERS KEEP US ON THE AIR! ✦Support them if you can.The attorneys at MAPLES, TUCKER, AND JACOB fight for working people. Let them represent you in your workplace injury claim. Mtandj.com; (855) 617-9333The MACHINISTS UNION represents workers in several industries including healthcare, the defense industry, woodworking, and more. iamaw44.org (256) 286-3704 / organize@iamaw44.orgDo you need good union laborers on your construction site, or do you want a union construction job? Reach out to the IRONWORKERS LOCAL 477. Ironworkers477.org 256-383-3334 (Jeb Miles) / local477@bellsouth.netThe NORTH ALABAMA DSA is looking for folks to work for a better North Alabama, fighting for liberty and justice for all. Contact / Join: DSANorthAlabama@gmail.comIBEW LOCAL 136 is a group of over 900 electricians and electrical workers providing our area with the finest workforce in the construction industry. You belong here. ibew136.org Contact: (205) 833-0909IFPTE - We are engineers, scientists, nonprofit employees, technicians, lawyers, and many other professions who have joined together to have a greater voice in our careers. With over 80,000 members spread across the U.S. and Canada, we invite you and your colleagues to consider the benefits of engaging in collective bargaining. IFPTE.org Contact: (202) 239-4880THE HUNTSVILLE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD is a union open to any and all working people. Call or email them today to begin organizing your workplace - wherever it is. On the Web: https://hsviww.org/ Contact: (256) 651-6707 / organize@hsviww.orgENERGY ALABAMA is accelerating Alabama's transition to sustainable energy. We are a nonprofit membership-based organization that has advocated for clean energy in Alabama since 2014. Our work is based on three pillars: education, advocacy, and technical assistance. Energy Alabama on the Web: https://alcse.org/ Contact: (256) 812-1431 / dtait@energyalabama.orgThe Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union represents in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to retail, grocery stores, poultry processing, dairy processing, cereal processing, soda bottlers, bakeries, health care, hotels, manufacturing, public sector workers like crossing guards, sanitation, and highway workers, warehouses, building services, and distribution. Learn more at RWDSU.infoThe American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union proudly representing 700,000 federal and D.C. government workers nationwide and overseas. Learn more at AFGE.orgAre you looking for a better future, a career that can have you set for life, and to be a part of something that's bigger than yourself? Consider a skilled trades apprenticeship with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Learn more at IUPAT.orgUnionly is a union-focused company created specifically to support organized labor. We believe that providing online payments should be simple, safe, and secure. Visit https://unionly.io/ to learn more.Hometown Action envisions inclusive, revitalized, and sustainable communities built through multiracial working class organizing and leadership development at the local and state level to create opportunities for all people to thrive. Learn more at hometownaction.orgMembers of IBEW have some of the best wages and benefits in North Alabama. Find out more and join their team at ibew558.org ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
We start with major security vulnerabilities, as authorities in the U.S. and Canada are intercepting millions in narcotics cleverly hidden within legitimate shipments, including a $16 million meth bust found in plaster vases. Tune in to hear more about these enforcement actions, where drugs have been concealed in commodities ranging from auto parts and berries to lettuce. The conversation then shifts to the back office, where new technology is being utilized to fight freight fraud and enhance compliance. We discuss Highway's new, optional feature that allows brokers to screen out carriers based on whether the primary account owner holds a non-domiciled CDL, a major red flag for liability and fraud concerns. This compliance effort is a direct response to increased insurer scrutiny and regulatory pressure surrounding non-domiciled licenses. Finally, we issue a critical warning concerning the Thanksgiving holiday period, as Verisk CargoNet has put out a massive cargo theft alert. Organized criminal networks are expected to cause a 65% increase in theft incidents compared to last year, primarily targeting food and beverage shipments. Vigilance, advanced security measures, and the right technology are absolutely essential for supply chain planning this quarter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SHOW NOTES: On this show…we're talking about something that feels simple on the surface but has quietly gotten complicated over the years; the lost art of human connection. Let me ask you this. Have you ever caught yourself choosing the easier, more convenient option even when you knew the real thing would've felt better? Maybe it was sending a text instead of having a conversation. Maybe it was Googling an answer instead of asking someone for help. Or maybe, without even realizing it, you've replaced community with convenience. I grew up in a time when your “search engine” was the person standing next to you. You needed directions? You asked someone. You wanted a restaurant recommendation? You talked to the locals. You had a random question or a big idea or a wondering moment? You pondered it. You reasoned it out. You let your mind chew on it. And in all those moments, even the small ones, connection happened. But today? We can outsource nearly everything: information, support, company, and even our curiosity. And while convenience is wonderful, it's also quietly replacing the face-to-face interactions that used to stitch our communities together. I don't believe humans were designed to live isolated lives. We're built for each other. To feel for others, to be felt by others, and to feel ourselves more fully because someone sees us. So on this episode, we're exploring the slow drift toward disconnection and how we can intentionally build bridges back to community, purpose, and genuine human interaction. Because convenience might be efficient. But connection? That's what makes us feel alive. Let's take a moment to define what I mean by “disconnecting.” I'm not talking about running away to the mountains or deleting every app on your phone. I'm talking about when convenience slowly replaces connection until you look around and realize you're not engaging with real people the way you used to. Connection is more than being in contact. It's being in a community where you feel known, seen, valued, and plugged into something bigger than yourself. It's being able to walk into a room and feel the energy shift because you're part of a group. Where are people getting that today? For some, it's online communities, and that's not all bad. But many have drifted away from in-person spaces that used to offer grounding and belonging. Church is a big one. And I get it. “Organized religion” has become a loaded phrase. Many people stepped away from the institution and accidentally stepped away from the community too. The real loss? Not just the rituals but the relationships. The potlucks. The check-ins. The encouragement. The sense of purpose that comes from helping, serving, or even just showing up. Without those touchpoints, it becomes easy to float. Easy to isolate. Easy to forget what it feels like to be needed or known. And yet, most people say they want purpose. They want belonging. They want to feel plugged in. But those things require participation. They require interaction. They require us to be in the room. So how do we start finding our way back? CHALLENGE: So, I challenge you… to intentionally choose one moment this week where you replace convenience with connection. Look for the conversation, the eye contact, the opportunity to help, or the open door to step back into community. Be brave enough to show up, be present, and let yourself be needed again. I Know YOU Can Do It!
Is technology moving faster than we can evolve? Joe Costello joins Joe Trippi today to discuss how technology has impacted our politics and how it will continue to impact our world. Joe Costello breaks down how to find a more connected political landscape in 2026 - and how everything is intertwined. What happened to the Ward Leaders in our communities and where did those connections go? And Joe Trippi and Joe Costello dive into how AI and social media are dividing America. Do hate campaigns keep people using social media platforms? Then, they discuss how their work in Tanzania and Nigeria inspired them to keep fighting for Democracy in America. How has the phone replaced the book? How do we climb out of the Skinner box?Find Joe Costello's book “The Politics of Ape and Machine: Power as Organization” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Get today's deal, The Organized CEO Intensive, and all five Black Friday offers here --> https://simplysquaredaway.com/blackfriday Do you keep twenty or more tabs open because you are afraid you will lose something or not be able to find it again? You are not alone. In this episode, I explain the real reason we keep tabs open and why it has nothing to do with productivity and everything to do with fear. I will show you what to do instead and how using ONE organized bookmarks bar removes that fear by giving your brain a trusted, reliable home for everything you need. I am sharing real examples from my own bookmarks bar and how simple it can be to finally close your tabs without worry. And because it is Black Friday week, today's deal helps you set all of this up with full support. Deal 2 is the Organized CEO Intensive, where we streamline your digital file structure, organize your bookmarks bar, and set up your Business Dashboard. It is half off today only. Tune in and finally close those tabs with confidence.
Mastering the Art of Pressing in Soccer In this packed episode we pull back the curtain on exactly how we teach teams to press with lethal organization instead of random effort. We share the cone/flag method Brian used from the youngest ages, live training footage breakdowns, pressing triggers we stole from Bielsa and Pep, how […]
Most Backlog Management Is Just Organized ProcrastinationWe've been told the backlog is how we steer.How we prioritise.How we plan.So we invest hours, maybe days, maintaining it:Refinement sessionsEstimation rituals (battles?)Prioritisation debatesAcceptance criteria rouletteHow to connect with AgileDad:- [website] https://www.agiledad.com/- [instagram] https://www.instagram.com/agile_coach/- [facebook] https://www.facebook.com/RealAgileDad/- [Linkedin] https://www.linkedin.com/in/leehenson/
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Craig: Empowering ordinary investors to take control of their money whether they are young or old.Most of the wealth created by today's fastest‑growing companies never reaches ordinary investors.Innovative firms like Uber stay private for years, creating massive value for venture capitalists and insiders before ever listing on a public exchange. By the time these companies finally go public, most of the growth is already “cooked in.” That leaves people investing through retirement accounts buying stock at a premium while much of the upside has already been captured.In this episode of Superpowers for Good, guest Craig Stephens, founder of Anatoc Media, shares how he helps everyday investors understand and, where possible, tap into this elusive pre‑IPO and IPO economy through AccessIPOs.com and his Retire Before Dad blog.Craig explains the core problem bluntly: “From 1996 to this year we went from about 8,000 public companies to just 4,000.” That shrinking universe means the broad market funds many people depend on for retirement are drawing from fewer companies, while an expanding slice of innovation remains locked up in private markets.He points to the rise of giant private companies as a turning point. “These companies really started with Uber. Uber waited a long time to go public and by the time it went public most of its growth was already built into the company.” When firms can command higher valuations and easy capital while staying private, they have little incentive to list, especially when secondary markets and tender offers already provide liquidity for insiders and employees.The result is a widening access gap. “With fewer companies going public that wealth is getting sort of sectioned off in this venture capital world which is just not accessible to everybody,” Craig notes. Regulated crowdfunding and other exemptions appear as part of the solution, opening a window for retail investors to participate earlier, even if only on a small scale compared to institutional players.Craig distinguishes between his two platforms. Retire Before Dad focuses on what he calls the “boring stuff” — index funds, sound retirement planning, smart personal finance habits. Access IPOs is intentionally more speculative, a place for investors to allocate a small slice of their wealth to higher‑risk, higher‑potential pre‑IPO and IPO opportunities.The discussion underscores a growing conviction among advocates for retail investors: the financial system needs more pathways for ordinary people to participate in the wealth generated by innovation. While regulation crowdfunding alone cannot fix the system, it is an essential part of a broader effort to ensure that elites are not the only ones who benefit from the most dynamic companies of this era.tl;dr:The episode explores how shrinking public markets prevent many ordinary investors from sharing in innovation‑driven wealth.Craig explains why companies stay private longer, shifting most gains to venture capital and other private‑market players.The conversation highlights how regulation crowdfunding and Reg A create limited but meaningful early‑stage access for the crowd.Craig shares his path from IT consulting to launching Retire Before Dad and Access IPOs to educate DIY investors.Craig presents his superpower of empowering investors, illustrated through his IPO community and practical guidance for smarter participation.How to Develop Empowering Investors As a SuperpowerCraig's superpower is empowering investors to take control of their own money. His work is about “empowering ordinary investors to take control of their money whether they are young or old.” Through his two platforms, he supports younger people “interested in these hot companies that are going public or that are private” and retirees he “empower[s] to manage their own money as DIY planners and investors.” Craig challenges the aura of complexity built by the financial industry, insisting “investing doesn't need to be that difficult or complex and ordinary investors can do it on their own,” accessing both traditional assets and, where appropriate, “the other economy that a lot of people don't have access to.”Craig described a small investing community that began on Facebook and later moved to Patreon. He does not give formal advice but offers tools, education, and a trusted space to discuss IPO and pre‑IPO opportunities. Within that group, members identified and accessed the Circle IPO. “At some point it was up six or seven hundred percent and that's very unusual,” Craig explains. Because the community had developed knowledge and shared strategies together, ordinary investors were ready to participate through available brokerage channels. Craig emphasizes there are also deals that “didn't jump out of the gate,” highlighting both the potential and the real risks of this approach.Tips for Developing This Superpower (Actionable)Demystify investingLearn basic concepts in public markets, IPOs, and private offerings to see that they are understandable and navigable.Adopt a DIY approachTake responsibility for core decisions about saving, allocation, and risk instead of defaulting everything to professionals.Anchor most money in simple vehiclesUse broad index funds and long‑term retirement accounts as the foundation of a personal investing strategy.Limit speculative capitalTreat IPOs and pre‑IPO deals as a small, clearly defined portion of an overall portfolio.Build or join trusted communitiesEngage with smaller, higher‑trust groups rather than anonymous online forums crowded with bots and hidden agendas.Increase access thoughtfullyWhen appropriate, open accounts at reputable brokers or platforms that offer IPO, pre‑IPO, or crowdfunding access.Stay clear‑eyed about riskRemember that “IPO investing carries significant risk” and expect that not every deal will be a winner.Prioritize habits over hypePair occasional high‑upside opportunities with disciplined saving, consistent investing, and long‑term planning.By following Craig's example and advice, empowering investors can become a skill. With practice and effort, it can become a superpower that enables more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileCraig Stephens (he/him):Founder, Anatoc Media LLCAbout Anatoc Media LLC: Access IPOs help ordinary investors explore opportunities to invest in the world's most innovative and disruptive pre-IPO companies. Website: accessipos.com, retirebeforedad.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/accessiposTwitter Handle: @RetireBeforeDadBiographical Information: Craig Stephens is a former IT consultant for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) turned full-time writer and podcaster.He's also the founder of Retire Before Dad (RBD), a website and YouTube channel about DIY investing for retirement and financial independence. He's a former contributor to TIME.com, US News & World Report, and HumbleDollar, and his writing has been featured on Yahoo Finance, Seeking Alpha, Apex Money, WTOP, Becoming Minimalist, Optimal Finance Daily, and Business Insider. He's a retail investor advocate, promoting equal investment opportunities for all investors.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/craighstephensPersonal Twitter Handle: @AccessIPOs Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Otherwise Brewing, Artisan Tropic, and Envirosult. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you're preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
The Efficient Advisor: Tactical Business Advice for Financial Planners
In this episode, I sit down with Todd Pisarczyk of Momentus Wealth Management to unpack what it really looks like to go from a great advisory practice to a truly scalable, CEO-led firm. Todd shares the behind-the-scenes shifts, the unexpected realizations, and the tangible systems he built through coaching that helped him move from “doing all the things” to running a business with clarity, confidence, and a long-term vision. From refining processes to elevating the client experience, this conversation is packed with real advisor wins and practical inspiration. In this episode you'll learn: • Why even successful advisors hit a wall when their practice starts feeling like a “real business” • How documenting processes changed the game for Todd's team of eight and created repeatability for the next generation • The planning, tax, and client-experience upgrades that now keep almost every client showing up for reviews • How shifting into the CEO role brought Todd clarity, confidence, and a bigger mission for his firm • Why group coaching amplified his growth far beyond what he expectedTodd's story is an amazing reminder that growth doesn't require being a “hot mess.” Sometimes the biggest leaps come from refining what's already working, creating structure around what's been living in your head, and surrounding yourself with advisors who are building remarkable businesses too. His journey shows what's possible when you finally step into the CEO seat, create repeatable systems, and elevate your client experience with intention.Learn more about the Group Coaching & Mastermind HERE! Register for the December 2nd event with Adam Holt HERE! (Replay will be sent to those who've registered!) Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don't get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.
We have a Starbucks worker in Alabama talk about the union's strike. We also talk to a former OSHA official about how Elon Musk got OSHA citations disappeared in Nevada.✦ ABOUT ✦The Valley Labor Report is the only union talk radio show in Alabama, elevating struggles for justice and fairness on the job, educating folks about how they can do the same, and bringing relevant news to workers in Alabama and beyond.Our single largest source of revenue *is our listeners* so your support really matters and helps us stay on the air!Make a one time donation or become a monthly donor on our website or patreon:TVLR.FMPatreon.com/thevalleylaborreportVisit our official website for more info on the show, membership, our sponsors, merch, and more: https://www.tvlr.fmFollow TVLR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheValleyLab...Follow TVLR on Twitter: @LaborReportersFollow Jacob on Twitter: @JacobM_ALFollow TVLR Co-Creator David Story on Twitter: @RadiclUnionist✦ CONTACT US ✦Our phone number is 844-899-TVLR (8857), call or text us live on air, or leave us a voicemail and we might play it during the show!✦ OUR ADVERTISERS KEEP US ON THE AIR! ✦Support them if you can.The attorneys at MAPLES, TUCKER, AND JACOB fight for working people. Let them represent you in your workplace injury claim. Mtandj.com; (855) 617-9333The MACHINISTS UNION represents workers in several industries including healthcare, the defense industry, woodworking, and more. iamaw44.org (256) 286-3704 / organize@iamaw44.orgDo you need good union laborers on your construction site, or do you want a union construction job? Reach out to the IRONWORKERS LOCAL 477. Ironworkers477.org 256-383-3334 (Jeb Miles) / local477@bellsouth.netThe NORTH ALABAMA DSA is looking for folks to work for a better North Alabama, fighting for liberty and justice for all. Contact / Join: DSANorthAlabama@gmail.comIBEW LOCAL 136 is a group of over 900 electricians and electrical workers providing our area with the finest workforce in the construction industry. You belong here. ibew136.org Contact: (205) 833-0909IFPTE - We are engineers, scientists, nonprofit employees, technicians, lawyers, and many other professions who have joined together to have a greater voice in our careers. With over 80,000 members spread across the U.S. and Canada, we invite you and your colleagues to consider the benefits of engaging in collective bargaining. IFPTE.org Contact: (202) 239-4880THE HUNTSVILLE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD is a union open to any and all working people. Call or email them today to begin organizing your workplace - wherever it is. On the Web: https://hsviww.org/ Contact: (256) 651-6707 / organize@hsviww.orgENERGY ALABAMA is accelerating Alabama's transition to sustainable energy. We are a nonprofit membership-based organization that has advocated for clean energy in Alabama since 2014. Our work is based on three pillars: education, advocacy, and technical assistance. Energy Alabama on the Web: https://alcse.org/ Contact: (256) 812-1431 / dtait@energyalabama.orgThe Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union represents in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to retail, grocery stores, poultry processing, dairy processing, cereal processing, soda bottlers, bakeries, health care, hotels, manufacturing, public sector workers like crossing guards, sanitation, and highway workers, warehouses, building services, and distribution. Learn more at RWDSU.infoThe American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union proudly representing 700,000 federal and D.C. government workers nationwide and overseas. Learn more at AFGE.orgAre you looking for a better future, a career that can have you set for life, and to be a part of something that's bigger than yourself? Consider a skilled trades apprenticeship with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Learn more at IUPAT.orgUnionly is a union-focused company created specifically to support organized labor. We believe that providing online payments should be simple, safe, and secure. Visit https://unionly.io/ to learn more.Hometown Action envisions inclusive, revitalized, and sustainable communities built through multiracial working class organizing and leadership development at the local and state level to create opportunities for all people to thrive. Learn more at hometownaction.orgMembers of IBEW have some of the best wages and benefits in North Alabama. Find out more and join their team at ibew558.org ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
As we approach the end of the year, many of us are thinking about reflection, growth, and setting new intentions.
Live and Learn with Katie, Learn Something New!In this Live and Learn episode Katie sits down with Malka The Organized Fairy to share real life decluttering tips for moms. They talk about how to start when every room feels overwhelming, simple ways to get your kids involved, and how to build routines that actually work in a busy season of life.Malka walks through mindset shifts that help you let go of guilt and shame around the mess, how to prep your home before the holidays so you can enjoy your family instead of stressing about stuff, and small daily habits that keep your space feeling calm without needing perfection. If you are craving a more peaceful home and a clear plan to get there this episode is for you.#declutteringtips #momlife #homeorganizationConnect with Malka: https://www.facebook.com/malkaorganizerBrought to you by Team EvoAZ at eXp Realty and MOMnation! Connect and Follow us at https://www.facebook.com/MOMnationUSAThis episode is prerecorded.
Antifa was officially labeled a domestic terrorist organization, yet Berkeley showed they still act with total impunity. Organized attacks, masked agitators, violence against conservatives and almost no arrests. If government won't punish political violence, it will grow. Equal justice is not optional.Learn more at https://www.standingforfreedom.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freedomcenterlu/ Twitter: https://x.com/freedomcenterluInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomcenterlu/
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Aaron: Curiosity.Stellar: Community building.Creating a delicious beer that is 100% gluten-free and celiac-safe is no small feat. Yet, Aaron Gervais and Stellar Cassidy, the co-founders of Otherwise Brewing, have achieved just that. Their mission is clear: to create craft beer that tastes as good as traditional beer while being accessible to a growing community of people who avoid gluten for health reasons.Stellar explained, “Otherwise Brewing is a passion project that Aaron and I launched in 2021 after years of R&D. The beer is 100% gluten-free and celiac safe. We brew with grains alternative to barley, like rice and millet, which also have a smaller carbon footprint.” This dual focus on inclusivity and sustainability has been central to their journey.The need for gluten-free beer is significant. Aaron, who has family members with gluten sensitivities, highlighted the growing demand, saying, “We've gotten a lot of inbound requests from people across the country to ship gluten-free beer to them because there just aren't that many options out there.” With nearly a third of people reporting they try to avoid gluten, Otherwise Brewing is filling a critical gap in the market.What makes their beer stand out isn't just the absence of gluten—it's the taste. “We wanted to make sure that we were doing something unique,” Aaron said. “We developed a way to make gluten-free beer that tastes just like regular beer. Beer is not health food—we drink it for the enjoyment.”This innovative approach, combined with their dedication to building a loyal community in the Bay Area, has positioned Otherwise Brewing for expansion. The company is currently raising capital on SMBX, a regulated crowdfunding platform, to support statewide distribution and marketing efforts. “We want to make a big splash,” Stellar shared.As they prepare to scale, Aaron and Stellar are inviting supporters to invest in their vision of making craft beer more inclusive. Through passion, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, they are leading the gluten-free beer revolution.If you're interested in supporting their mission, you can learn more about their campaign at SMBX.tl;dr:Today's episode highlights Otherwise Brewing's mission to create delicious, 100% gluten-free craft beer.Co-founders Aaron and Stellar share their journey to develop a sustainable, celiac-safe brewing process.The company is raising capital on SMBX to expand distribution across California and grow its community.Aaron's superpower, curiosity, drives innovation, including the creation of gluten-free beer recipes.Stellar's superpower, community building, fosters inclusivity at the taproom for gluten-free beer lovers.How to Develop Curiosity and Community Building As a SuperpowerAaron's superpower is his relentless curiosity, which drives him to explore new ideas and solve challenging problems. “I've always been a naturally curious person,” Aaron said. “When something piques that curiosity, I want to learn more and figure it out.” This mindset led him to develop Otherwise Brewing's gluten-free beer. He explained, “I wondered if I could make gluten-free beer that tastes good… it was a difficult technical challenge, but we figured it out.”Stellar's superpower is her ability to build inclusive, vibrant communities. “If I had to pick my superpower, I think it's honestly building community,” Stellar shared. She explained how creating a welcoming taproom for people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities has been a core part of the brewery's success. “So many people with gluten issues can't hang out at breweries. We're proud to provide a space where they can enjoy a beer with their friends.”Aaron taught himself web programming to address a business challenge. He wanted better insight into Otherwise Brewing's sales data, but existing systems fell short. Driven by curiosity, he learned to write web hooks to connect inventory systems and create real-time dashboards. This innovation streamlined operations and demonstrated his ability to turn curiosity into actionable solutions.Stellar's community-building skills are best illustrated by the Otherwise Brewing taproom. She takes time to connect personally with customers, remembering names and stories while introducing people to one another. This thoughtful, inclusive approach has fostered a grassroots community of gluten-free beer lovers. “At any given time, you'll see people from all walks of life bonding over our beers,” Stellar said.Tips for Developing Aaron's Superpower:Ask “Why not?” when faced with conventional ideas or approaches.Pursue curiosity with action—learn new skills or experiment to find solutions.Embrace challenges as opportunities to innovate.Tips for Developing Stellar's Superpower:Take time to truly listen to people and remember their stories.Create inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome.Focus on building relationships by introducing people with shared interests.By following Aaron's and Stellar's example and advice, you can make curiosity and community building a skill. With practice and effort, you could make these superpowers that enable you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileAaron Gervais (he/him):CEO, Otherwise BrewingAbout Otherwise Brewing: Otherwise Brewing makes gluten-free beer using a proprietary process that allows us to match the flavors beer-lovers expect—with no limitations on style. We're making the world's most popular alcoholic beverage accessible to all, regardless of dietary restrictions.Website: otherwisebrewing.comLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/otherwise-brewingCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/otherwisebrewingInstagram Handle: @otherwisebrewing Other URL: smbx.in/wowBiographical Information: Aaron Gervais co-founded Otherwise Brewing in 2019 with Stellar Cassidy, following several years of experimentation as a homebrewer. He oversees the company's operations, R&D efforts, and recipe design. In this role, he is responsible for developing Otherwise Brewing's production protocols, and his research into gluten-free brewing processes has led to a number of technical improvements that are unique to the company.Outside of beer, Aaron has led a diverse career, with 10 years of tech industry marketing, 5 years of arts nonprofit administration, and over 15 years as a freelance classical composer. As a composer, he has won many prestigious awards, and his music has been played around the world. He holds a Master of Arts in Composition from UC San Diego and a B.Mus from the University of Toronto.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/aaron-gervaisStellar Cassidy (she/her):COO, Otherwise BrewingBiographical Information: Responsible for managing Otherwise's sales and customer relations, Stellar Cassidy is a veteran of the San Francisco craft beer scene. She has held positions as diverse as front-of-house manager, purchasing agent, sales representative, and event planner. Prior to founding Otherwise, Stellar led front-of-house operations at a number of well-known craft beer bars in San Francisco, including the Church Key and City Beer Store, and she has built a reputation in the local industry for attention to detail and customer satisfaction.Stellar holds a BA in Creative Writing and Performance Poetry in addition to a Cicerone® beer certification, the beer equivalent of sommelier credentialing.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/stellar-cassidy-1a879830aSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and Envirosult. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Just some fall cleaning.KO-FI SHOP: https://ko-fi.com/woebegonepod/shopUse code WOEBLEFTGONE for 15% off!LINKS:MUSIC: http://woebegonepod.bandcamp.comBLUSTEER: http://blusteer.bandcamp.comTWITCH: http://twitch.tv/woebegonepodPATREON: http://patreon.com/woe_begoneALIZA SCHULTZ: https://shows.acast.com/the-diary-of-aliza-schultzTRANSCRIPTS: http://WOEBEGONEPOD.comTWITTER: @WOEBEGONEPOD Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We Like Shooting Episode 637 This episode of We Like Shooting is brought to you by: Primary Arms, Night Fision, Rost Martin, Bowers Group, Mitchell Defense, and Swampfox Optics Welcome to the We Like Shooting Show, episode 637! Our cast tonight is Jeremy Pozderac, Aaron Krieger, Nick Lynch, and me Shawn Herrin, welcome to the show! Gear Chat Nick - Mag Inserts That Matter True Weight Mag Inserts Shawn - Risky Click - Mag Coupler Bullet Points Shawn - Textile Innovations in Shooting Gear: Insights from Kurt on Blue Alpha Belts The article discusses the origins of Blue Alpha Belts, a company co-founded by Kurt and Jessie, and their longstanding partnership with the TFBTV YouTube channel since 2015. Kurt shares insights into this collaboration, which highlights the community ties within the gun industry. Shawn - Rost Martin Unveils RM1S Comp and California Models Rost Martin has launched two new California-compliant models, the RM1S Comp and RM1C Comp subcompact pistols, designed to meet state regulations while promoting Second Amendment rights. These models feature enhanced control technology and magazine adaptability, targeting personal protection needs. The introduction of these products emphasizes Rost Martin's commitment to supporting gun owners in California while expanding their offerings in the firearm market. Jeremy- Atrius Development Group Selektor The most robust solution on the market that enables the user to have 3 positions; SAFE, SEMI (Traditional) and FULL-SEMI. This Forced Reset Selector (FRS) is compatible with mil-spec AR15 (chambered in .223/5.56/.300 BLK) fire control groups and no modifications required. The Atrius FORCED RESET SELECTOR (Single) isn't just a safety, it's an advantage. Gun Fights Step right up for "Gun Fights," the high-octane segment hosted by Nick Lynch, where our cast members go head-to-head in a game show-style showdown! Each contestant tries to prove their gun knowledge dominance. It's a wild ride of bids, bluffs, and banter—who will come out on top? Tune in to find out! The Agency Brief The Militia Act of 1792: Federal Mandate for Private Firearm Ownership Five months after ratifying the Second Amendment (December 1791), the same Congress passed the Militia Acts in May 1792. The Two Acts May 2, 1792 – Calling Forth Act - Authorized the President to call the militia into federal service. May 8, 1792 – Uniform Militia Act - Mandated private armament and established uniform national standards (passed on the final day of the session). Reason for Passage A direct response to St. Clair's Defeat (November 1791), the worst U.S. military loss of the era. Congress responded by: Expanding the professional army (the Legion of the United States) Requiring citizens to arm themselves as a ready reserve — ensuring the nation didn't rely on a large standing army many feared could threaten liberty Who Was Enrolled “Each and every free able-bodied white male citizen” aged 18–45. Enrollment was automatic, with limited exemptions. Some states broadened eligibility. Required Equipment (Section 1 — purchased and maintained at personal expense) Musket or firelock (military caliber, bayonet-capable) or rifle Bayonet and belt Knapsack, pouch, two spare flints Cartridge box with ≥24 cartridges (or ≥20 balls for rifles) Officers: additional privately purchased items (pistols, swords, fusils, etc.) Failure to appear properly equipped at muster resulted in fines enforced by militia courts-martial. These weapons had to be military-standard and fit for immediate service, not hunting or sporting pieces. Meaning of “Well Regulated Militia” in 1792 To the Founding generation: Equipped with military-standard arms Organized and trained at regular musters Inspected and ready for immediate use
If you've ever felt buried under to-do lists, school planning, paperwork, and the constant pressure to do it all — today's episode is your breath of fresh air.
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