Podcasts about Pella

“Today” based on Luke 4:16-21, given by Pastor Ryan Landt at Cornerstone Church in Pella on June 7, 2026. Continue reading The post Today first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

(6) James Tabor examines how, during the Jewish Revolt (66–70 CE), the movement fled Jerusalem for a "hideout" in Pella, Jordan. However, Mary disappears from the historical record before this event, likely dying on Mount Zion in the 50s or 60s. Tabor notes her absence in Paul's letters and the later chapters of Acts, despite her earlier presence at Pentecost. He discusses the tradition of the Dormition, suggesting she remained in Jerusalem until her death. This disappearance marks a transition where the historical Mary was gradually "written out" of the emerging Christiannarrative.1842 Masada

“Jesus Christ Is Lord!” based on Philippians 2:5-11, given by Pastor Ryan Landt on May 31, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post Jesus Christ is Lord! first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

“Remember and Pray” based on John 17:9-19, given by Pastor Ryan Landt on May 24, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post Remember and Pray first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

In this episode of Experts Unleashed, I sit down with Sam Vande Weerd, managing partner and wealth advisor at Carson Wealth in Pella, Iowa, to dig into what financial planning actually looks like when it's done right. We talk about why 80% of what Sam does has nothing to do with money, his Ten-Ten-Eighty framework that he's never seen fail, the question most advisors never ask — "who do you want your money to bless?" — and why dying with the most money doesn't make you the winner. Sam also shares two client stories that completely redefine what a financial plan really is, including one that had a client coming up to him in tears at Christmas. Plus we get into needs, wants, and wishes, long-term care as a love letter to your children, and why there is only one way to retire — but multiple ways for your kids to pay for college.   

“Keep It Burning” based on Acts 2:1-13, given by Pastor Ryan Landt on May 17, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post Keep it Burning first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. Our shout-out today goes to Joel Allman from Pella, IA. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. What does God do when the people he loves begin drifting away from him? He confronts them. Listen to our text today, Hosea 2:1-3. Say to your brothers, "You are my people," and to your sisters, "You have received mercy." "Plead with your mother, plead— for she is not my wife, and I am not her husband— that she put away her whoring from her face, and her adultery from between her breasts; lest I strip her naked and make her as in the day she was born, and make her like a wilderness, and make her like a parched land, and kill her with thirst. — Hosea 2:1-3 Hosea 2 opens with a powerful image. God speaks to the faithful within Israel—the "children"—and tells them to plead with their mother, a symbol of the nation itself. Israel has broken the covenant with God. The marriage relationship has been violated. God's words are direct: "She is not my wife, and I am not her husband." This language may sound shocking, but it reveals something deeply important about the way God relates to his people. Throughout the Bible, God describes his relationship with his people using the language of marriage. Israel was not simply a nation that God ruled. She was a bride God loved. That's why idolatry is not just disobedience—it is spiritual adultery. When Israel worshiped Baal and other false gods, they were not just breaking a rule. They were abandoning their covenant love. And the consequences were serious. God warns that if Israel continues in her unfaithfulness, the blessings that once covered the nation will be stripped away. The land will become like a wilderness—dry, barren, and lifeless. But notice something important here. Even in confrontation, God's goal is not destruction. It is restoration. The command to "plead" shows that God is still calling his people to repentance. The door is not closed. The covenant is not forgotten. God is confronting the sin because he still desires the relationship. This is how love works. Real love does not ignore betrayal. Real love calls it out so it can be healed. And the same principle applies to us today. When God confronts our idols, exposes our misplaced loves, or disciplines our hearts, it is not because he has rejected us. It is because he refuses to share our hearts with things that will ultimately destroy us. Today, take a moment to examine your own heart. Ask God to reveal any place where your love for him has grown cold—or where something else has taken his place. Then return to him. DO THIS: Take five quiet minutes today and honestly ask God to reveal anything that may be competing with your devotion to him. ASK THIS: Why do you think the Bible uses marriage to describe God's relationship with his people? What are some modern "idols" people turn to instead of trusting God? Is there anything in your life right now competing for the place God should hold in your heart? PRAY THIS: Father, search my heart and reveal anything that has taken your place in my life. Help me return to you with a renewed love and devotion. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Come Thou Fount"

“An Incredible Vision” based on Revelation 21:1-5a, given by Pastor Ryan Landt on May 10, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post An Incredible Vision first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

“What's in Your Hand?” based on Exodus 4:1-17, given by Pastor Tom Dykman on May 3, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post What's In Your Hand? first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

“Know God” based on John 10:26-30, given by Pastor Ryan Landt at Cornerstone Church in Pella on April 26, 2026. Continue reading The post Know God first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

“We Must” based on Acts 5:27-32, 40-42, given by Pastor Ryan Landt on April 19, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post We Must first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

Matt Risinger hosts a conversation with Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser of Tru Tech Tools, focusing on how testing and measurement shape modern building performance. The discussion centers on blower door testing, airflow diagnostics, and the growing role of data in verifying airtightness and system performance. They explore how builders and HVAC professionals use tools to identify leakage, improve indoor air quality, and fine-tune mechanical systems. The conversation also touches on training, evolving standards, and the shift toward performance-based construction, with practical insights into integrating diagnostics into everyday building workflows. Episode sponsor Pella is recognized for supporting the podcast. Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Pella.  Learn more at: https://www.pella.com/ Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network. https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetworkhttps://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

 On this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland sits down with Nathan Madden and Brett Howard from Pella Windows & Doors to talk about a partnership that's been going strong since 2008.Nathan and Brett share how their relationship with Wieland Builders has evolved over the years from early collaboration to becoming a trusted, go-to trade partner. Brett reflects on his 21-year career with Pella and the team's recent recognition as the top trade team in the country for new construction, highlighting the culture, leadership, and consistency that set them apart.The conversation dives into what really matters in today's building industry: quality installation, strong communication, and delivering a top-tier customer experience. From navigating challenges with different builder personalities to ensuring products perform as designed, Nathan and Brett emphasize the importance of teamwork and accountability on every project.Jeff and the team also explore Pella's innovation pipeline, including new interior installation methods that improve efficiency and safety, as well as cutting-edge product lines like the Vista series, designed to meet the growing demand for larger windows, slimmer sightlines, and more natural light in today's custom homes.You'll also hear insights on:The importance of proper installation and protecting the building envelopeHow Pella supports builders with marketing, content, and boots-on-the-ground serviceIndustry trends driving demand for bigger glass and bold design choicesThe value of long-term relationships in the building processWhether you're a builder, designer, or homeowner, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how strong partnerships and continuous innovation help bring exceptional homes to life. Pella Windows & Doors WebsiteEmail Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comSee Wieland Builders custom home gallery  www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz or Pinterest  

“The Chorus of Worship” based on Revelation 5:11-14, given by Pastor Ryan Landt on April 12, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post The Chorus of Worship first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

Wie wird aus einem Prinzen ein Welteroberer? Diese Folge erzählt den Aufstieg von Alexander der Große – von seiner Kindheit in Pella bis zur Machtübernahme mit nur 20 Jahren. Geprägt von Philipp II. von Makedonien, erzogen von Aristoteles und angetrieben von Ehrgeiz, zeigt sich früh sein außergewöhnliches Talent – nicht zuletzt in der berühmten Episode um Bukephalos. Intrigen, Machtkämpfe und ein Mord verändern alles – und ebnen den Weg für eine der größten Karrieren der Geschichte.……Tickets für unsere Live-Tour im Mai! -……REIHE ALEXANDER/HELLENISMUS:His2Go#53 - Belagerung von TyrosHis2Go#100 - Kampf um Alexanders ErbeHis2Go#150 - Bibliothek von AlexandriaHis2Go#34 - Schlacht bei Actium und Ende des Hellenismus……PREMIUM - testet einen Monat lang gratis!His2Go unterstützen für tolle Vorteile - über Steady!Klick hier und werde His2Go Hero oder His2Go Legend……WERBUNGDu willst dir die Rabatte unserer weiteren Werbepartner sichern? Hier geht's zu den Angeboten!…….LITERATURGehrke, Hans-Joachim: Alexander der Große, 2009.Hammond, Nicolas: Alexander der Große, 2004…….UNTERSTÜTZUNGFolgt und bewertet uns bei Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podimo oder über eure Lieblings-Podcastplattformen.Wir freuen uns über euer Feedback, Input und Vorschläge zum Podcast, die ihr uns über das Kontaktformular auf der Website, Instagram und unsere Feedback E-Mail: kontakt@his2go.de schicken könnt. An dieser Stelle nochmals vielen Dank an jede einzelne Rückmeldung, die uns bisher erreicht hat und uns sehr motiviert.…….COPYRIGHTMusic from https://filmmusic.io: “Sneaky Snitch” by Kevin MacLeod and "Plain Loafer" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: Creative Commons CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/Hier bekommt ihr die Tickets zur "His2Go - Live Tournee" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Absolutely Reasonable” based on Matthew 28:1-10 and Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24, given by Pastor Ryan Landt at Cornerstone Church in Pella on April 5, 2026. Continue reading The post Absolutely Reasonable first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

Take a full walk-through of Golden Eagle Log & Timber Homes' latest custom build in New Hampshire, The White Mountain Custom Home. Jon Wendt showcases every detail that delivers the “modern ski lodge” vibe the homeowners requested—floor-to-ceiling Pella windows, reclaimed ceilings, a center fireplace wrapped in stone, a chef's kitchen that mirrors the great room finishes, and a lower level stacked with a custom bar, gym, and bunk suite. If you're designing mountain or lake homes, this tour is loaded with layout ideas, material combinations, and staging cues you can adapt to your next project. Watch the full tour: https://youtu.be/J1LODPFzfpo SUBSCRIBE

“Lay It Down” based on Mark 11:1-10, given by Pastor Ryan Landt on March 29, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post Lay it Down first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

Founder of Launching Arrows Kelsie Parton discusses the upcoming event, “A Night of Stars,” in mid-May.

Pella All-State Speech students Mia Peterson, Isaac Vandenberg, Adilynn Montgomery, and Olivia White discuss receiving nominations for the IHSSA All-State Individual Speech Festival.

Pella Christian Individual All-State Speech Students Jenna Vande Zande and Ella Hodgell discuss their recognition from the Iowa High School Speech Association.

City of Pella Recreation Director Spencer Winzenried discusses the latest in parks and recreation in Pella.

Pella Police Department Administrative Services Director Marcia Slycord discusses the outdoor warning system in Pella as part of Severe Weather Awareness Week.

“Be Hatched or Go Bad” based on John 12:20-33, given by Pastor Ryan Landt on March 22, 2026 at Cornerstone Church in Pella. Continue reading The post Be Hatched or Go Bad first appeared on Cornerstone Church.

WorkSmart Hospitality and Culinary Arts apprenticeship student Cadyn Rollings is hosting an Italian Dinner as the culminating project of his apprenticeship on Friday, March 27th from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Maytag Student Center at Central

Amber Beyer with the Awakening Grace Foundation in Pella discusses their sixth annual Journey Through Grief Day Retreat on Saturday, March 28th.

On today’s Let’s Talk Pella, we continue our conversation with Matt Dowie of Yoke Ministries in Pella, discussing the non-profit organization, their mission, and Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month.

Matt Dowie with Yoke Ministries in Pella discusses the non-profit organization, their mission, and Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month.

Pella Christian Grade School Principal Ben Dirksen discusses his new career opportunity at Chicago Christian Schools and his time at Pella Christian over the last five years.

Pella Superintendent Greg Ebeling discusses the latest Pella School Board meeting.

Students Elliana Schlerman, Trisin Plants, and Malachi VanHaaften with the Business Professionals of America Pella Chapter discuss qualifying for the National Conference.

After hosting students from Greijdanus High School in October, Pella Christian High School students Maggie Vos, Sydney Bruxvoort, Greta Vos, and Maria Meinders discuss their trip to the Netherlands, which is happening now through March 27th.

2026 Tulip Queen Kenzie Kanis and Royal Court Members Riley Braafhart, Addie Van Arendonk, Abbie Brand, and Lexi Terpstra preview the annual debut performance on Tuesday, March 24th at the Pella Opera House and their upcoming promotion

The owner of the group responsible for operating the Pella Municipal Airport was recently honored for his work in teaching others how to fly. Shane Vande Voort has been awarded as the Iowa Certified Flight Instructor of

Marion County Bank's Board of Directors has announced that Klint Korver, currently serving as Chief Financial Officer, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Marion County Bank.

The World Food Prize Foundation continued their 2026 tour across Iowa with CEO Tom Vilsack visiting Pella High School and the Pella Area Community & Economic Alliance late last week. Hear more from the former Iowa Governor

In the spring of 2020, as isolation settled over Pella, Iowa, one woman's new beginning ended in violence.Tracy Mondabough was building a fresh start when a silver Cadillac began appearing in the background of her life. What followed was a confrontation caught between obsession and heartbreak, leaving investigators to untangle what was planned and what was simply justified after the fact.How to support:For extra perks including exclusive content, early release, and ad-free episodes -Go to - PatreonHow to connect:WebsiteInstagramFacebookTwitterTheme and Closing Track:Original compositions created for The Minds of MadnessPlease check out our sponsors and help support the podcast:Shopify - Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/madnessQuince - Upgrade your wardrobe with pieces made to last with Quince. Go to Quince.com/madness for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.Marley Spoon - This new year, fast-track your way to eating well with Marley Spoon. Head to MarleySpoon.com/offer/MADNESS for up to 25 FREE meals!HERS - Feel like your best self again, Visit forhers.com/MADNESS to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.NOCD - If you're struggling with OCD or unrelenting intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help. Book a free 15 minute call to get started: https://learn.nocd.com/MADNESSGranola - If meetings are eating up your day, Granola is a no-brainer. You can try it totally free for three months - just head to granola.ai/MADNESSNutrafol - Start your hair growth journey with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code MADNESSResearch & Writing:Ryan DeiningerSources:Court TV Full TrialEmotional first day for Iowa woman on trial for fatally stabbing husband's girlfriend‘She Was The Provocation': Iowa Woman Found Guilty In 2020 SlayingChilling CrimesJury finds Michelle Boat guilty of first-degree murder in death of estranged husband's girlfriend'This is not a whodunit'She 'had so much love to give':'He don't belong to you'Pella woman sentenced to life in prisonWoman charged in Pella homicide investigation, victim identifiedWoman charged in Pella murder describes deadly stabbingSTATE OF IOWA v. MICHELLE LEE BOAT (2024) | FindLawObituaryIowa woman convicted of killing estranged hubby's girlfriendFacebook

Vermeer CEO and President Jason Andringa and Vice President of Operations Mindi Vanden Bosch discuss the latest at the company outside of their upcoming expansion in Bondurant. Hear more about that move here.

Vermeer CEO and President Jason Andringa and Vice President of Operations at Vermeer Corporation Mindi Vanden Bosch discuss their expansion to Bondurant.

Bob Zylstra and Terry Kleven with the Pella Ice Sports Association discuss free lessons at Caldwell Park today and March 5th at 4:30 p.m. for youth ages 10 and younger.

Sidewalk Prophets Lead Singer Dave Frey discusses their upcoming performance at the Pella Opera House on Saturday, March 7th.

U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley discusses the latest in Washington D.C. Hear more from Grassley this weekend on In Touch with South Central Iowa.

On this episode of the Build Show Podcast, host Matt Risinger sits down with longtime friend Branson Fustes, founder of Pilgrim Building Company and Enabler LLC in Austin, Texas. Branson traces his path from Colorado carpentry and cabinet work to running three companies — a custom high-end general contracting firm, an in-house labor/carpentry company that spun off partly for insurance reasons, and a newer service company. The conversation covers building reputation through architect relationships, the economics of self-performing labor, raising the bar on craftsman wages and benefits, and the ongoing challenge of attracting the next generation to the trades. A special thank you to today's sponsors, Pella Windows and Doors and Huber Engineered Woods.Huge thanks to our episode sponsors, Huber Engineered Woods and Pella. Learn more at: https://www.huberwood.com/https://www.pella.com/  Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network. https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetworkhttps://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Discover the inspiring origin story of Shoberg Homes, a premier luxury custom home builder in Austin, Texas, featured on the Build Show Podcast. In this episode, Matthew Shoberg, founder of Shoberg Homes, shares how passion, craftsmanship, and integrity shaped one of the most respected high-end residential construction companies in the region. From building bespoke architectural homes with top Austin architects to expanding into expert millwork and finished carpentry, Shoberg Homes delivers unmatched quality and attention to detail. Learn valuable insights on building a successful construction business, hiring with character, and creating exceptional client experiences. Perfect for homeowners, architects, and builders seeking inspiration in custom home design, luxury building, and professional construction excellence. Huge thanks to our episode sponsors, Huber Engineered Woods and Pella. Learn more at: https://www.huberwood.com/https://www.pella.com/ Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network. https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetworkhttps://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

This week on Hoop Troop and Shooters Touch, we break down two wild weeks of Iowa high school basketball as the season hits the dog days and everything starts to shift across the state.We dive into:Big upsets and teams shaking up the rankingsWho's still undefeatedPlayers putting up silly numbersWho's surging and who's slipping as March gets closerWe also play “How Far Back Is Too Far Back?” — breaking down what a team really needs to be ranked to still have a legit shot at making the Iowa State Tournament.Plus all your favorite segments:Doug's Pick of the WeekTony's Spotlight AthleteTom's ShoutoutA new Lunch League LegendWe cover 40+ teams from all across Iowa, giving you a true statewide look at who's built for a run.Schools discussed include:Storm Lake, Solon, Cedar Falls, Johnston, Ankeny, Fort Dodge St. Edmond, Kuemper Catholic, Saydel, Ballard, ADM, Pella, and MOC-Floyd Valley.If you love Iowa high school basketball, rankings, upsets, player stats, and state tournament talk, this episode is for you.Hoops in Iowa — let's go. Shooters shoot.

THE FLIGHT TO PELLA AND MARY'S DEATH Colleague James Tabor. Tabor discusses the Christian flight to Pella during the Roman revolt. He speculates Mary died before this event, likely around 49–63 CE, and was buried on Mount Zion. Consequently, she disappears from the New Testament record, which shifts focus to Peter and Paul after the Jerusalem church's dispersal. NUMBER 6

SHOW 12-25-25 THE SHOW BEGINS WITH DOUBTS ABOUT THE MODERN STORY OF MARY AND HER FAMILY. 1868 NAZARETH SEPPHORIS AND THE HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF MARY'S LIFE Colleague James Tabor. Tabor identifies Sepphoris, a Roman capital near Nazareth, as Mary's birthplace. He reimagines Jesus and Joseph as "tektons" (builders) working in this urban center rather than simple carpenters. This proximity meant Mary witnessed Romanbrutality and the city's destruction, influencing her family's spiritual views on the Kingdom of God. NUMBER 1 INVESTIGATING THE NAME PANTERA Colleague James Tabor. Tabor explores the name "Pantera," found in rabbinic texts and on a Roman soldier's tombstone. He suggests this might be a family name rather than a slur, investigating the possibility that Jesus's father was a relative or soldier, which challenges the theological narrative of a virgin birth. NUMBER 2 RECLAIMING THE HISTORICAL JEWISH FAMILY Colleague James Tabor. Highlighting the Protoevangelium of James, Tabor contrasts its depiction of a perpetual virgin Mary with historical evidence of a large Jewish family. He argues Mary had numerous children and that her parents were likely wealthy property owners in Sepphoris, integrating Jesus into a close-knit extended family. NUMBER 3 JAMES THE JUST AS TRUE SUCCESSOR Colleague James Tabor. Tabor asserts James, Jesus's brother, was the movement's true successor, not Peter. Citing Acts and the Gospel of Thomas, he notes James led the Jerusalem council and stood at the cross. Tabor argues the "beloved disciple" entrusted with Mary's care was this blood brother, not Johnthe fisherman. NUMBER 4 THE HEADQUARTERS ON MOUNT ZION Colleague James Tabor. Tabor describes excavations on Mount Zion, identifying a first-century house foundation as the "upper room" and headquarters of the early movement. He visualizes Mary as the matriarch in this courtyard, welcoming pilgrims and apostles like Paul, and establishes James as the leader of this house synagogue. NUMBER 5 THE FLIGHT TO PELLA AND MARY'S DEATH Colleague James Tabor. Tabor discusses the Christian flight to Pella during the Roman revolt. He speculates Mary died before this event, likely around 49–63 CE, and was buried on Mount Zion. Consequently, she disappears from the New Testament record, which shifts focus to Peter and Paul after the Jerusalem church's dispersal. NUMBER 6 THE TALPIOT TOMB AND DNA EVIDENCE Colleague James Tabor. Discussing the Talpiot tomb, Tabor details ossuaries bearing names like "Jesus son of Joseph" and "Mariamne." He argues statistical clusters and potential DNA evidence suggest this is the Jesus family tomb, positing that physical remains support historical existence without necessarily negating the concept of spiritual resurrection. NUMBER 7 THE Q SOURCE AND MARY'S TEACHINGS Colleague James Tabor. Tabor identifies the "Q" source as a collection of ethical teachings shared by Matthew and Luke. He attributes these core values—such as charity and humility—to a family tradition taught by Mary to Jesus, James, and John the Baptizer, aiming to restore Mary'shistorical influence as a teacher. NUMBER 8 VIRGIL'S RURAL ORIGINS AND AUGUSTAN CONNECTION Colleagues Scott McGill and Susanna Wright. The guests discuss Virgil's birth in 70 BCE near Mantua and his rural upbringing, which influenced his poetry. They trace his move to Rome during civil war and his eventual connection to Augustus, noting that Virgil promised a grand epic for the emperor in his earlier work, the Georgics. NUMBER 9 TRANSLATING THE SOUND AND METER OF VIRGIL Colleagues Scott McGill and Susanna Wright. The translators explain choosing iambic pentameter over dactylic hexameter to provide an English cultural equivalent to the original's epic feel. They describe their efforts to replicate Virgil's auditory effects, such as alliteration and assonance, and preserve specific line repetitions that connect characters like Turnus and Camilla. NUMBER 10 THE AENEID'S PLOT AND HOMERIC INFLUENCES Colleagues Scott McGill and Susanna Wright. McGill and Wright summarize the plot, from Troy's destruction to the war in Italy. They analyze Virgil's dialogue with Homer, noting how the poem's opening words invoke both the Iliad's warfare and the Odyssey's wanderings. They also highlight the terrifying, visual nature of Virgil's depiction of the underworld. NUMBER 11 ROMAN EXCEPTIONALISM VS. HUMAN TRAGEDY Colleagues Scott McGill and Susanna Wright. They discuss whether the Aeneid justifies Roman empire or tells a human story. McGill argues the poem survives because it creates sympathy for antagonists like Dido and Turnus. They explore how Virgil portrays the costs of empire and Aeneas's rage, complicating the narrative of Augustan propaganda. NUMBER 12 CLODIA'S PRIVILEGE AND CICERO'S AMBITION Colleague Douglas Boin. Boin introduces Clodia, a privileged woman from an ancient Roman family on Palatine Hill. He contrasts her aristocratic, independent nature—manifested in her name spelling—with the rise of Cicero, a talented outsider. Boin frames their eventual conflict as a clash between established power and ambitious newcomers. NUMBER 13 THE POLITICS OF TRIBUNES AND REFORM Colleague Douglas Boin. Boin details the divide between the Optimates and Populares. He explains how Clodia and her brother Clodius used the office of Tribune—the "people's protector" with veto power—to enact reforms. This strategy allowed them to challenge the Senate's authority and set the stage for Clodius's political dominance. NUMBER 14 THE TRIAL OF RUFUS AND CICERO'S MISOGYNY Colleague Douglas Boin. Boin describes a trial where Clodia accused her ex-lover Rufus of poisoning. Cicero defended Rufus by launching misogynistic attacks on Clodia, calling her "cow-eyed" and alleging incest. Boin argues this famous speech unfairly solidified Clodia's negative historical reputation while obscuring the political power she wielded. NUMBER 15 THE DEATH OF CLODIUS AND THE REPUBLIC'S END Colleague Douglas Boin. Boin recounts the violent death of Clodius by rival gangs, marking a turning point toward the Republic's collapse. He views Clodia's subsequent disappearance from history as a symbol of the loss of women's influence and civic rights, framing her story as a cautionary tale about political violence. NUMBER 16

Professor Barry Strauss. Three Jewish factions fought for control of Jerusalem, destroying their own grain supplies and exacerbating the famine. While rebels used guerrilla tactics against Rome, Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai escaped in a coffin to preserve Judaism at Yavneh, and Christians reportedly fled to Pella for safety. 1492

The Historical Disappearance of Mary: Colleague James Tabor explains that following the crucifixion, Mary disappears from the biblical record, likely dying before the 70 AD destruction of Jerusalem; while early Christians fled to Pella under Simon's leadership, traditions suggest Mary died on Mount Zion, with Tabor arguing she was "written out" of the story by later traditions. 1650