Podcasts about Perfection

Send us a textStevenson University goalie Tyler Merchant joins the show to share how an eighth-grade “I'll hop in” moment turned into a college career. We dig into the perfectionist/overthinker paradox, learning poise by studying goalies like Logan McNaney, and practical reset routines (yes, even the blink-and-wipe “hard drive” trick). Tyler walks through his Florida-to-boarding-school journey, a reclass year, committing to Catholic, transferring to Stevenson, and what D3 vs. D1 really feels like from the crease. We also hit leadership when your team turns over captains, staying locked in during quiet stretches, drills for feet and balance (walk your arc, tennis-ball footwork), stick talk (Eclipse III + ghost pocket), stringing heads, and using ADHD as a superpower for film and reps. He closes with advice to enjoy the grind—because you only get these four years once.You'll hear about:The ego check of first stepping in net—and why Tyler stuck with itUsing perfectionism to fuel practice without choking performanceComposure cues after goals and during momentum swingsRecruiting, reclassing, and the transfer portal—what he'd tell HS goaliesD3 competition level, depth, and the Mustang Classic thriller vs. St. LawrenceFootwork/balance drills, arc positioning from X, and communication habitsADHD, focus hacks, and building a repeatable game-day routineFinal takeaway: Enjoy it. Treat it like a job you love—and you'll keep coming back better.Support the show

Today, I interview Liz Sweet, who spent years feeling the pressure to be polished and perfect, even when it left her exhausted. Growing up in Los Angeles, she was encouraged to use her voice, but only her polished side was welcomed, while her vulnerable self was seen as “too much.”As she built her career leading trainings around the globe, Liz created a confident persona that looked successful on the outside but drained her on the inside. Her turning point came when she discovered a presence-based approach and realized that real confidence comes not from performance, but from connection.In this conversation, Liz shares what it meant to drop the mask, move through discomfort, and find the deep freedom of being seen as her whole self. She shows how presence—not polish—is what allows your true voice to shine.__________________Liz Sweet is the founder of Connected Speaking, where she helps professionals find real confidence in their voice and leadership. With over a decade of experience training nonprofit and philanthropic leaders, she knows how easily the pressure to prove yourself can take over—no matter your role.Liz also knows this struggle personally. For years, she battled speaking anxiety, relying on performance and polish to get by. Her turning point came when she discovered a presence-based approach that helped her move beyond fear and perfectionism into genuine confidence and ease.Today, Liz leads supportive group programs and coaching that go deeper than surface-level techniques. She guides people to feel at home in their voice, connect more authentically, and lead with greater impact.__________________Find Liz here:www.ConnectedSpeaking.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethasweet/ Support the showI'm Dr. Doreen Downing and I help people find their voice so they can speak without fear. Get the Free 7-Step Guide to Fearless Speaking https://www.doreen7steps.com​.

Even as you strive for the best your home school can be, don't miss the growth that's happening in the day to day. The Glare of Perfection originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.

This week, I'm joined by Darrell Vesterfelt—VP of Growth at Mighty Networks, founder, and one of the powerhouse panelists at Passionate & Prosperous LIVE!—for a conversation that cuts right to the heart of what business is really about: people.From growing up in a trailer in rural Michigan to scaling creator businesses to millions in revenue, Darrell's story is proof that success doesn't come from fancy degrees or formulas—it comes from empathy, service, and the courage to follow your transformation.In this raw and energizing conversation, we explore the foundations of coaching, entrepreneurship, and building human-centered businesses that actually last. We talk about the fears that stop people from making offers, the truth about niche and ideal clients, and why community is not just nice-to-have—it's the container where transformation actually happens.We dive into: ✨ Why your ideal clients are often just a younger version of you ✨ How to use your own transformation as the foundation for your business ✨ The reframe that makes selling a moral obligation instead of something to fear ✨ Why niche isn't demographics—it's the transition you help people navigate ✨ How to write a “love letter” to your ideal client that instantly clarifies your message ✨ The truth about offers: if you don't love them, no one else will either ✨ Why selling, success, and failure are all neutral—and what that mindset shift unlocks ✨ The role of community in creating lasting transformation (and why you can't do it alone) ✨ What it really means to build a business that's aligned with service, authenticity, and peopleThis episode is an inspiring reminder that no matter what stage of business you're in, it's never about algorithms, vanity metrics, or trying to be “better.” It's about empathy, connection, and being willing to serve.If you've ever struggled with fear of selling, comparison, or “finding your niche,” this one's going to light you up.Interested in learning how to build a $1M community? Sign up for the free masterclass here.Connect with Darrell on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.Get Full Show Notes, Event Sign Ups and More Information Here:http://www.staceybrassrussell.com/podcast

Is hospitality really about perfect meals—or is it about creating space for connection? In this inspiring and fun-filled episode, I sit down with Abby Kuykendall, founder of A Tabletop Affair and author of Let the Biscuits Burn. Abby’s refreshing perspective reminds us that meaningful gatherings don’t require spotless homes or gourmet menus; they thrive on authenticity and presence. From her funny Taco Bell story to practical tips like conversation cards and family non-negotiables, Abby shares how small acts of intentionality can transform our tables into places of belonging. We’ll also explore the deeper, spiritual side of hospitality—how opening our homes can invite God’s presence and rekindle relationships. If hosting feels overwhelming, this conversation will encourage you to start small and welcome big blessings. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Listen in to learn more : (03:01) A Taco Bell Craving (08:00) The Meaning of Authentic Hospitality (13:35) Training for Hospitality Without Innate Talent (18:32) Practicing Intentional Hospitality Rhythms (29:04) Feeding 5,000 Every Day Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith! Connect with Abby Kuykendall Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/abby.kuykendall/ Website: https://abbykuykendall.com Pick up a copy of Abby’s book - Let the Biscuits Burn Connect with Donna Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ep 537. This week, Renee chats with Carla Ondrasik, former music publishing executive turned mentor and author, about success, identity, and why sometimes the best thing you can do is stop trying. Carla shares stories from her career developing chart-topping artists like Barbra Streisand, Mariah Carey, and Christina Aguilera — and what walking away from the industry taught her about worth, balance, and family. They dive into the pressure so many women feel to prove themselves, the danger of tying identity to achievement, and the freedom that comes from redefining success on your own terms. Carla's upcoming book Stop Trying! is both her story and a guide for anyone ready to let go of constant striving and finally start living. Find Carla:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlaondrasik Website: https://www.carlaondrasik.com/book Sponsors: Wayfair — Cozify your space with Wayfair's curated collection of easy, affordable fall updates. Find it all for way less at https://www.Wayfair.com.  Skims - Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at SKIMS.com. After you place your order, be sure to let them know we sent you! Select "podcast" in the survey and be sure to select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. https://www.skims.com/momroom Name Bubbles - Visit namebubbles.com and use code MOMROOM15 for 15% off your first order. RENEE REINA   Instagram: @themomroom | @thereneereina   TikTok: @thereneereina   Facebook Community - The Mom Room Community YouTube: Renee Reina - The Mom Room Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join the conversation on Discourse. Have your say and read what fellow listeners think of the Tokyo 2025 action. A small monthly pledge on Patron gets you that, and so much more, and is a way to show your support for what we do.On the Track todayIt was a day for the pre-event favourites to deliver in Tokyo. Faith Kipyegon produced a near- perfect display of front-running to win yet another major 1500m title. Cordell Tinch broke 13 to make his 110m hurdle win look routine. Hamish Kerr and Ethan Katzberg won the High Jump and Hammer Throw respectively, and Syndey McLaughlin Levrone put the 400m world record on notice in winning her semi-final.We explore and unpack those performances, and look ahead to the men's 1500m final, which features tactical intrigue and a possible final 200m showdown between Josh Kerr and Niels Laros, with Gareth and Ross picking a dark-horse who may spoil that party. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This lecture discusses key ideas from the ancient philosopher and statesman Marcus Tullius Cicero's work, On The Nature Of The Gods, which critically examines Epicurean, Stoic, and Skeptic perspectives on matters of theology and cosmology Specifically it focuses upon the presentation of Stoic cosmology and theology by Quintus Lucilius Balbus in book 2, and in particular on his discussion of the perfection and beauty of the super-lunary realm, which includes the planets, the sun and moon, and the fixed stars. The ancients thought that these heavenly bodies exhibited perfect order and regularity in their motions, which are either the rotation of the sphere of the heavens, or the circular orbits of the planets, sun, and moon. To support my ongoing work, go to my Patreon site - www.patreon.com/sadler If you'd like to make a direct contribution, you can do so here - www.paypal.me/ReasonIO - or at BuyMeACoffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM You can find over 3,500 philosophy videos in my main YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/gbisadler Purchase Cicero's On The Nature Of Gods - amzn.to/3JITSZc

Redefining Success: Create a Life of Fulfillment and Purpose In this episode of the Elevate Life Project, host Michael Cohan challenges the conventional definitions of success, which often focus on wealth, status, and external validation. Michael advocates for a more personal and fulfilling definition of success that aligns with one's passions and values. He emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset, emotional intelligence, and surrounding oneself with supportive people. The episode also explores practical strategies for achieving a successful life that brings true happiness and fulfillment, urging listeners to start building their version of success today. 00:00 Introduction to Elevate Life Project 00:34 Defining Success Beyond Materialism 01:55 Redefining Personal Success 02:17 Aligning Career and Environment with Passion 03:03 Balancing Time and Commitments 03:30 Reflecting on Life and Success 04:17 Building Desire and Momentum 04:32 Developing a Growth Mindset 04:44 Enhancing Emotional Intelligence 05:02 Sharing Goals and Staying Positive 05:45 Focusing on Strengths 06:05 Conclusion and Call to Action 06:35 Closing Remarks and Resources   Michael Kohan  Elevate Life Project:  Mindfulness | Spirituality | Success | Personal Growth Elevate Life Project Podcast: Embrace Uncertainty: It's the Game Changer You Need! What's your true purpose?  Free Quiz by visiting https://elevatelifeproject.com/purpose  If you liked this Podcast, please subscribe and write us a review.  This is what helps us stand out, so more people can find this show.  To Write us a Review please open up this Podcast in the your app  on your computer and search for Living Life on Purpose https://elevatelifeproject.com/podcast    #Success #Fulfillment #PersonalGrowth #EmotionalIntelligence #LifeGoals #ElevateYourLife #MichaelCohan  

Turning 30 isn't just a birthday—it's a milestone of faith, growth, and clarity. In this Mind Bully Podcast special, recorded on his birthday in Benin City, Nigeria, Norense Odiase reflects on the highs and lows of his 20s, the lessons learned through loss and resilience, and the vision he carries into this next decade.From basketball courts to keynote stages, from moments of suicidal thoughts overseas to the joy of building a faith-driven platform, Norense shares raw truths about identity, reinvention, and walking boldly in God's calling. With his cousin asking the hard questions, this episode becomes an honest and inspiring conversation about legacy, relationships, faith, and what it means to serve others authentically.Whether you're 20, 30, or beyond, this is your reminder: growth doesn't make you less of yourself—it makes you more like yourself.What You'll Learn:Why 30 is a pivotal age for purpose and ministryThe biggest lesson Norense is taking from his 20sHow faith carried him through grief, injuries, and identity strugglesThe danger of people-pleasing and the freedom of reinventionWhy service, storytelling, and authentic friendships matter for the future Key ScripturesEcclesiastes 3 – “To everything there is a season.”Romans 12:6 – “Exercise your gift according to the faith you have.”Jeremiah 29:11 – “Plans to prosper you, not to harm you.”Memorable Quotes“Growth makes you more like yourself, not less like yourself.”“Faith is not just belief—it's the courage to work what God has placed in you.”“Perfection isn't required. Authenticity is.”“Your darkest season can become the very message that frees others.”Spotify: Mind Bully PodcastApple: Mind Bully PodcastConnect with Norense:Instagram: @kingno_ | @mindbullypodcastListen & Subscribe

In this episode of Bred to Perfection, we dive into one of the biggest challenges breeders face—controlling and eliminating rats and mice. These pesky rodents can wreak havoc on your farm by contaminating feed, damaging infrastructure, and even threatening the health of your birds. Join us as we discuss the different types of rats—Norway rats and Roof rats—and how they behave around your farm. Learn about the diseases they can spread, the damage they can cause, and most importantly, effective strategies for controlling and preventing infestations. From rodent-proofing your farm to using natural predators, we've got tips and tricks to help you keep your strain safe and your farm running smoothly. Tune in to ensure your birds stay healthy and your farm stays rodent-free! Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains.  Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you.  Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

In this episode of Chakras & Cusswords, we dive deep into the Virgo zodiac — the Earth sign of precision, service, and soulful devotion. Virgos are known as the healers and perfectionists of the zodiac, but what does that really mean in love, relationships, and self-expression?We'll explore Virgo's strengths — loyalty, attentiveness, and dedication — as well as their challenges, from overthinking to setting sky-high standards. Plus, we'll discuss Virgo's connection to the Virgin archetype, how this earth sign rules the digestive system, and why Virgo placements often carry powerful healer energy.With famous Virgos like Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Michael Jackson embodying the sign's artistry and discipline, we'll uncover what makes Virgo such a fascinating force in astrology.Whether you're a Virgo, dating one, or just curious about this mutable Earth sign, get ready to understand why Virgo love is equal parts steady, sensual, and transformative. About the Host: Katherine  is an esteemed practitioner of Chakra, Astrology, and Tarot Alchemy, harnessing the cosmic forces and energies to manifest magic and success.As the visionary behind the acclaimed Chakras & Cusswords Podcast, she curates an oasis for the contemporary mystic, guiding seekers on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Her illustrious presence has graced prestigious platforms such as Good Day Sacramento, The Astrology Magazine, TMZ and the revered Aura app.Elevating her craft to the forefront, the Chakras & Cusswords Podcast has earned distinction as one of the Top 5 Chakra-inspired Podcasts.Furthermore, Katherine is a certified life, chakra, and meditation coach, specializing in the holistic healing of mind and soul through the profound resonance of sound energy. Her expertise serves as a beacon of hope and renewal for those embarking on the path of personal growth and spiritual enlightenment.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chakras_cusswords/Lifestyle, Nurse Love 101: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtWgA6zxwaZd-CpNUi3CO5wTik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@chakras.cusswordsWebsite: https://chakrascusswords.com#manifestation #lawofattraction #chakrascusswords #fullmoon #newmoon #spirituality #virgomoon#chakra #astrology #zodiac #virgo

I'm sure you've seen that famous optical illusion picture that can be perceived either as two faces in profile looking at each other, or as a vase. That image is named the “Rubin Vase,” after Danish psychologist Edgar Rubin, who authored a book in 1915 called “Visual Perception.”  This image, and others like it, have stimulated much scientific debate about how our brains understand and process images.  What fascinates me is that moment when my understanding of the image shifts, that instant where I can see the second interpretation of the picture. Naturally, there's a technical term for that; it's called a Gestalt switch. A Gestalt switch occurs when you change your perspective from one view of an image, a sound or an experience. As with the Rubin vase, you first saw it one way - as a vase - and now you see it another way - as two faces. There is much debate about the cognitive processes that allow this switch to happen, but there seems to be general agreement that the switch is hard for an individual to control. Sometimes you just can't see the faces; you only see the vase. Nevertheless, we are talking about the necessity for you to be able to make that switch in your harp playing.  Here's the premise for this show. Making your piece sound like music isn't about what you do; it's about your perspective. In case I've made this sound too difficult, let me reassure you that I am positive you already do this in your playing. You just haven't thought of it this way before. If you weren't making this perception change, you would stay stuck on one measure and never get to playing the entire piece. What we're going to explore today is how to make that perception shift intentional. Why would we want to do this? Because when we shift our perspective from playing the notes to playing the music, we play the music better.  If this sounds a little mysterious, be sure to listen to the rest of the show, because this discussion will help you find more freedom in your playing. It will help you learn and finish a piece faster and allow you to play with more musicality and confidence. I know that sounds like a big promise, but I'm confident I can deliver on it.  Links to things I think you might be interested in that were mentioned in the podcast episode:  Join us at Back to School Night Are you ready to work with a Harp Mastery® Certified Coach? Click and find out. Work with a Harp Mastery®  Accredited Teacher. Harpmastery.com Get involved in the show! Send your questions and suggestions for future podcast episodes to me at podcast@harpmastery.com Looking for a transcript for this episode? Did you know that if you subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts you will have access to their transcripts of each episode? LINKS NOT WORKING FOR YOU? FInd all the show resources here: https://www.harpmastery.com/blog/Episode-226  

In this episode, Sophia Bush discusses the complexities of human nature, spirituality, and emotional maturity. She explores the dangers of toxic positivity and the challenges of authenticity in public life. Sophia also reflects on intergenerational trauma, activism, and the importance of self-compassion. Through candid stories and practical insights, Sophia encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability, nurture the “good wolf” within, and take small, meaningful actions toward personal and collective healing.We need your help! We all know ads are part of the podcast world, and we want to improve this experience for you. Please take 2 minutes and complete this survey, it's a quick and easy way to support this podcast. Thank You!Key Takeaways:The parable of the two wolves and its symbolism regarding internal emotional struggles.The importance of embracing both positive and negative emotions, avoiding toxic positivity.The challenges of maintaining authenticity and boundaries in a public life.The concept of spirituality as a connection to nature and the critique of organized religion.The impact of intergenerational trauma and the shared legacy of harm and healing.The evolution of human societies beyond tribalism and the complexities of historical progress.The significance of self-narratives and affirmations in shaping emotional well-being.The role of external validation and trusted feedback in countering negative self-perceptions.The universal nature of fear, self-doubt, and the importance of self-compassion.The call for collective action and the need for sustained effort in addressing social injustices.If you enjoyed this conversation with Sophia Bush, check out these other episodes:Being Heart Minded with Sarah BlondinLiving Skillfully with Gretchen RubinFor full show notes, click here!Connect with the show:Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPodSubscribe on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyFollow us on InstagramGrow Therapy - Whatever challenges you're facing, Grow Therapy is here to help. Sessions average about $21 with insurance, and some pay as little as $0, depending on their plan. (Availability and coverage vary by state and insurance plans. Visit growtherapy.com/feed today!Persona Nutrition delivers science-backed, personalized vitamin packs that make daily wellness simple and convenient. In just minutes, you get a plan tailored to your health goals. No clutter, no guesswork. Just grab-and-go packs designed by experts. Go to PersonaNutrition.com/FEED today to take the free assessment and get your personalized daily vitamin packs for an exclusive offer — get 40% off your first order.BAU, Artist at War opens September 26. Visit BAUmovie.com to watch the trailer and learn more—or sign up your organization for a group screening.LinkedIn: Post your job for free at linkedin.com/1youfeed. Terms and conditions apply.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, I talk about what it really means to find peace when facing tough decisions. Recently, I was torn between attending my sister's milestone birthday celebration and staying home to comfort my daughter who needed me. Both were “good” choices, but ultimately, I chose alignment with my values—being present where I was most needed. Difficult decisions often force us to choose between equally meaningful paths. Whether it's deciding to stay or leave a marriage, how much truth to share with children, or when to seek therapy, peace often comes from aligning with what matters most—not from finding the “perfect” answer. Grief and peace can coexist, and learning to hold both allows us to move forward with confidence and compassion for ourselves. Takeaways: Peace often comes from alignment, not perfection. Hard decisions can hold both grief and relief. Listening to your values helps anchor your choices. True confidence grows when you honor your own inner knowing. If you're ready to create peace even in difficult decisions, I'd love to help you. Reach out and let's walk this journey together. More from me: A free Masterclass to help calm your mind, wrangle even the most difficult triggers, and finally feel steady again in 3 Simple Steps. September 24th at 10 am MT / 12 pm ET - Register here for Stop Ruminating and Reclaim Your Peace: https://portal.andreagiles.com/stop-ruminating-masterclass-september Please leave a rating and review if you like our podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/healfrominfidelity Sign up for the $47 class "Decide: How to Commit to Staying or Going After Infidelity" here: https://portal.andreagiles.com/decide Apply to join the "Get Your Life Back After Infidelity" group program here: https://andreagiles.com/get-your-life-back/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/theinfidelitycoach/ Please click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes! For transcripts and other available downloads, please visit my website at https://andreagiles.com/podcast/ © 2020 - 2025 Andrea Giles

Episode 210: Vacationing With Teens – How to Stay Connected with Parenting Coach Janine Mushwar Vacationing with teens can be magical—or maddening. In this episode, Rob talks with parenting coach Janine Mushwar about how to move from conflict to connection with your teenager, both at home and while traveling. If you've ever felt your teen slipping away, or if vacations bring out more eye-rolls than smiles, this conversation is for you. Janine shares her own journey as a mom of three very different kids and the parenting shifts she had to make when rewards, punishments, and “the old ways” stopped working. Now, as a parenting coach, she helps families find practical strategies to reduce conflict, strengthen communication, and make family trips less stressful and more meaningful. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why vacations with teens can be both magical and challengingThe importance of shifting your parenting approach during the teenage yearsHow to balance teens' independence with family togetherness on tripsTools to de-escalate conflict in the moment (without turning the trip into a battle)Why involving teens in the planning process makes a huge differenceWays travel can strengthen connection during family transitions—like divorce, blending families, or big movesSimple but powerful mindset shifts that help parents prioritize connection over chasing a “perfect” trip About Our Guest Janine Mushwar is a parenting coach who helps moms and dads move from conflict to connection with their teens. Drawing on her own experience raising three children and supporting hundreds of families, Janine provides practical, compassionate strategies that help parents build stronger relationships with their kids. Learn more at JanineMushwar.com and check out her short, actionable videos on YouTube. Resources & Links Visit Janine's website: JanineMushwar.comFollow Janine on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube (@JanineMushwar)Connect with The Family Vacationer on Instagram and Substack Don't Miss Stay tuned for Rob's upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent's Guide to Meaningful Travel, coming soon! Plus, we're headed toward our 200th episode—with some fun surprises along the way.

"You're not the problem. You're just doing it alone." If you attended the Stepmom Summit last weekend, you wrapped up in a high - feeling seen and understood. But it's over now, and you're back in a house that doesn't feel like yours with zero space to land. Today we're talking about why "trying harder" isn't the answer, and what you actually need to create lasting change in your stepfamily life. In This Episode, We Cover: Why Stepmom Life Feels So Isolating The myth of "trying harder" and the stepmom spiral of second-guessing your boundaries and interactions How "trying harder" leads to losing yourself in the effort That you're not actually failing - the system is failing you You don't need to try more - you need to be seen You weren't meant to navigate stepfamily life alone Resources Mentioned Join the Stepfamily Circle: Ready to stop navigating stepfamily life alone? The Stepfamily Circle offers ongoing support, group coaching calls, and a community that truly gets it. Learn more at stepfamilycircle.com  If you missed The Stepmom Summit For a few more days, you can still grab a VIP ticket and access all of the presentations and $2,000 in bonuses. Don't wait because the opportunity to grab your ticket will expire on September 15th!  For Aspiring Stepfamily Coaches: Ready to help other stepmoms through coaching? Or just want to dive deep into learning everything about stepfamily life and see what happens from there? Learn about the Stepfamily Coach Academy at stepfamilysolutions.com/stepfamily-certification Connect with Cameron: Website: stepfamilysolutions.com Instagram: @stepfamilysolutions TikTok: @stepfamilysolutions Are you enjoying The Stepmom Diaries? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show. It will help me reach more stepmoms just like you so they can get MORE out of stepmom life! It's super easy – all you have to do is click HERE and scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “write a review.” Then just let me know what you like best! And the best part about leaving a review? If you send me a screenshot of your review, I'll send YOU my 20-minute Stepmom Self-Care Blueprint. For FREE. It's normally $49 and it's a great tool to quickly set up a self-care plan you'll actually use. Just head HERE to send me your screenshot and grab your blueprint!

Julia and I are back with another juicy Q&A episode, answering your most heartfelt and real questions about recovery. From brain chemistry to perfectionism, family dynamics to weight gain fears — nothing is off the table.We go deep into what it really takes to move beyond quasi recovery, why blood tests can't tell the full story, how to navigate edema, and why being a highly sensitive person is actually a gift in recovery.This one is raw, emotional, funny (as always), and packed with truth bombs to keep you moving forward.Powerful quotes from the episode

9-7-25 AM Relationships Are Built On Forgiveness Not Perfection by Clays Mill Baptist

In this episode, we delve into the topic of consumerism. Together, we reflect on what drives us to buy, how we value material possessions, and society's pressures that drive consumer behavior. Antoinette questions how often consumerism masquerades as self-care, leading to a cycle of emotional spending. We challenge ourselves to interrogate our purchasing habits and consider the deeper motivations behind our buying choices. How can we prioritize real emotional well-being over material acquisition? Join us...Contact Us:Hotline: (215) 948-2780Email: aroundthewaycurls@gmail.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/aroundthewaycurls for exclusive videos & bonus episodesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kevin J. Worthen invites us to recognize that failure, when met with resilience and faith, becomes a stepping-stone in our quest for perfection. Click here to view the full speech.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sana sits down with Jack Sorenson to explore a sustainable approach to health and fitness called the Floor and Ceiling Method. Jack shares his personal journey from being a collegiate athlete to battling unhealthy habits, facing identity loss, and ultimately rebuilding his life through fitness, sobriety, and mindset shifts. Instead of chasing perfection or burning out, Jack's method helps people set realistic “floors” (minimum effort on hard days) and aspirational “ceilings” (maximum capacity without burnout) to stay consistent long-term. This episode uncovers how small, steady actions create a lifestyle that lasts, and why pivoting doesn't mean stopping—it means adapting for sustainability. If you've ever struggled with yo-yo dieting, unrealistic workout plans, or self-criticism for not being “perfect,” this conversation will show you how to reframe your health journey for real progress and balance. About the Guest   Jack Sorenson is a fitness coach, entrepreneur, and creator of the Floor and Ceiling Method. A former multi-sport athlete turned health strategist, Jack helps people “start and never stop” by combining practical fitness strategies with mindset tools. After overcoming addiction and weight struggles, he now empowers others to build sustainable habits that align with their lifestyle. Key Takeaways   The Floor and Ceiling Method ensures progress by setting non-negotiable minimums and achievable maximums. Consistency beats intensity—progress is built over years, not weeks. Perfection is unrealistic; sustainability comes from doing “less but longer.” Health is more than physical—it's mental and emotional resilience. Pivoting in your fitness routine is not failure—it's adapting for longevity. Identity shift is key: health must be part of who you are, not a temporary phase. Movement in any form—walking, weightlifting, pickleball, or mobility work—counts toward a healthy lifestyle. Sharing your story openly can be a powerful step toward healing and helping others.   Connect with the Guest   Instagram: @sorensonfit Email: jack@sorensonfitness.com Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer   This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. About Healthy Mind By Avik™️   Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it has grown into a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, it features powerful podcasts and conversations around: • Mental Health & Emotional Well-being• Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth• Holistic Healing & Conscious Living• Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ listeners worldwide, join us to break stigma and build a world where every story matters.

Sara Davison welcomes coach Keren Eldad to unpack how trading perfection for purpose changes everything—from healing heartbreak to finding real, lasting happiness. Keren shares her personal transformation, the pitfalls of the perfectionism trap, and practical tools to redefine success on your own terms. You'll hear how boundaries fuel confidence, why imposter syndrome loses power when you get clear on values, and how the Paws Principle can help you make better decisions with calm and intention.Support the showFind more information and resources here: http://saradavison.com/Follow me on social media►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saradavisondivorcecoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaraDavisonDivorceCoachTwitter: https://twitter.com/SDDivorceCoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-davison-742b453/

This talk, presented by Allie Vaknin, is the second of a series of reviews during which she focuses on the Perfection of what are called Paramis, qualities of consciousness that, when fulfilled in their potential, nurture the realization of Nirvana.  Tonight's talk focuses on the Parami of Sila, virtuous thoughts and deeds, reflected in what […]

Send us a textIn this episode, I share some exciting news—my podcast was recently recognized as one of the top nutrition and fitness podcasts! But here's the truth: it didn't happen overnight. It's the result of small, consistent steps taken over five years.And that's exactly the lesson I want to pass on to you. When it comes to health and fitness, it's not about being perfect—it's about progress. One small win at a time.I'll walk you through:Why the myth of overnight success is holding you back in fitness.How even simple swaps—like high-protein yogurt or drinking water before coffee—can add up.Client stories that show how small wins beat extreme diets every time.Why consistency, not perfection, creates lasting results.

From the Gospel of John, David Gilliland preaches on “the Man of unrivalled perfection”, concentrating on the mentions of “the Man” in that gospel…”Behold the Man!” Readings: John 1:1-2, 6, 29-31, 4:9, 12, 19, 25-26, 28-30, 5:2, 5, 7, 11-15, 7:12-17, 31, 45-47, 8:39-42a, 44, 9:11-12, 10:32-36, 15:13-14, 24, 19:4-5, 28-30, 33, 41-42. (Recorded in Stark Road Gospel Hall, 11th Sept 2024) Complete series on features of the Lord Jesus: The Man of Unfolding Prophecy The Man of Unequalled Power The post The Man of Unrivalled Perfection (50 min) first appeared on Gospel Hall Audio.

In this power packed Q&A, Kim breaks down cardio confusion for menopausal women and cuts through social media noise. Learn the difference between HIIT, LISS, and SIT, how to find your true fat burning zone, why consistency beats perfection, and how to set goals you can actually hit. We also cover real world topics like staying at lower calories without stalling, whether Diet Coke hurts fat loss, smart cardio planning, and a genius budget weights hack for home workouts. What you will learn • HIIT, LISS, SIT explained simply for menopause, what really matters for fat loss • How to calculate your fat burning heart rate and use it in any workout • Consistency over perfection, why data beats feelings every time • How to choose cardio frequency and duration based on your goal • Calories, plateaus, and building muscle while leaning out • Diet Coke and weight loss, what to change and when to leave it alone • Home equipment on a budget, sand filled water bottle hack • Program fit, when to set a new goal and how to assess progress photos Timestamps 00:00 Welcome, format, where questions came from 01:08 HIIT vs LISS vs SIT for fat loss, the fat burning zone 17:05 How to estimate max heart rate, practical target example 23:52 Masterclasses, why most people need emotional strength more than new info 37:04 Member success story, setting new goals when you reach your target weight 48:03 Cardio planning by outcome, how to know if it is working 53:11 Can you stay at 1,200 calories, avoiding unnecessary changes 57:04 Diet Coke question, when a habit actually matters 1:00:47 Budget weights hack, turning water bottles into adjustable dumbbells 1:04:09 Training with prolapse, general guidance and substitutions 1:05:22 Wrap up and next steps Resources mentioned • Sculpted Menopause App, Ask Kim tab for weekly questions • Butt Camp, glute focused training with follow along cardio • Blaze Cardio inside the app for add on fat loss Keywords menopause fat loss, HIIT LISS SIT, fat burning heart rate, consistency over perfection, cardio for women over 40, build muscle in menopause, calorie deficit, Diet Coke weight loss, home workout dumbbells, glute training, Sculpted Menopause App, Butt Camp CTA Join the Sculpted Menopause App, submit your questions in the Ask Kim tab, and follow along with Butt Camp and Blaze Cardio to accelerate fat loss and build strong, shapely glutes. Love Kim xo

If you're still sitting on a podcast idea because you're waiting for the “right” time, let me stop you. What you're actually doing is waiting for perfect. And perfect is just procrastination with better branding. While you're busy “getting ready,” somebody else is already publishing and getting in front of your clients.I've put out 689 episodes of this show. Do I think they're all good? Nope. Do I think any of them are perfect? Absolutely not. But they exist. They work. They connect with people. And that matters way more than the drafts collecting dust in Google Drive.In this episode of The More Profitable Podcast, I'm talking about how perfectionism shows up for podcasters, why it costs you visibility and clients, and what you can do to get your first episodes out even if they're messy. Because messy works. Perfect doesn't.00:39 — Why perfectionism feels safe but actually keeps me stuck04:20 — The Ira Glass “taste vs. skill” gap and how I see it play out with podcasters07:56 — Why I'd rather improve than be perfect (and how 689 episodes prove it)10:22 — The cost of hiding — lost visibility, lost trust, lost clients12:32 — Why my crummy first episode was better than every draft I never published13:56 — How I coach clients to experiment without the pressure of perfect14:44 — How the Podcast Launch Accelerator helps me keep perfectionists movingMentioned in Perfection Is What's Keeping You From Launching Your PodcastPodcast Launch AcceleratorThe Podcast NewsroomRate and review the show Stop Waiting for Perfect → Start PublishingIf perfectionism has been holding you back, it's time to let your first season be the experiment it's meant to be. Inside the Podcast Launch Accelerator, you'll get the strategy (and if you choose, the production support) to finally publish your show without letting “perfect” stall you out. Let's build your first season together.Send us a textSupport the show

The next generation of analytics is here. In this episode of The Data Chief, ThoughtSpot CEO Ketan Karkhanis explains why AI is the new BI, and the future of analytics is autonomous. Karkhanis shares his vision for the autonomous enterprise, where AI agents act on insights and automate workflows.  He also explains why a culture of trust and experimentation is crucial for unlocking AI's full potential. Don't miss this discussion on how to fundamentally rethink how organizations interact with data to drive better business outcomes and build an autonomous enterprise.Key Moments:AI is the New BI (08:35): Ketan explains that AI represents a “foundational rewiring” of the entire technology stack, a shift he calls Cloud 2.0. He predicts the BI market is on the verge of an “upgrade super cycle,” leaving legacy players behind.AI Becomes the Only UI (20:45): Ketan shares his vision that in the future, AI will become "the only UI you will need". He explains that ThoughtSpot's MCP host can bring together structured data, unstructured data, and world knowledge to provide better context for a user's question.Progress over Perfection (25:56): Leaders are reminded not to let “perfection be the enemy of progress.” For Ketan, a culture of trust and openness to experimentation is more important than having perfectly defined KPIs or flawless dashboards.Training Comes First (29:02): One of the biggest lessons learned was the importance of investing in people before chasing the promise of AI outcomes.  After rolling out mandatory generative AI training, new use cases began emerging organically from across the business—proof that education fuels innovation.Outcomes Over Tech (38:47): Despite mountains of legacy technology, many organizations remain starved for actionable insights. Ketan points to EasyJet as an example of getting it right: rather than focusing on systems and infrastructure, they designed their AI initiative around a tangible outcome—avoiding flight cancellations.The Rise of the Autonomous Enterprise (42:56): The next frontier is the autonomous enterprise, where AI agents don't just surface insights but also act on them. Ketan envisions a future where humans are freed from mundane tasks to focus on higher-value work like relationships and judgment calls.Key Quotes:"AI becomes the only UI you will need." - Ketan Karkhanis"It's not about AI. It's about ROI." - Ketan Karkhanis"This is no longer just about BI. This is about agents that are driving workflows in your organizations." - Ketan KarkhanisMentions:Go Boundaryless Product SpotlightThoughtSpot Agentic MCP Server Lex Fridman PodcastTeam of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham LincolnThe Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama CanalGuest Bio: Ketan Karkhanis is the CEO of ThoughtSpot. Prior to joining the company in September 2024, Ketan was the Executive Vice President and General Manager of Sales Cloud at Salesforce. He returned to Salesforce in March 2022 after his time as the COO of Turvo, an emerging supply-chain collaboration platform. Before that, Ketan spent nearly a decade at Salesforce, where he led product areas in Sales, Service Cloud, Lightning Platform, and finally Analytics, wherein as the Senior Vice President & GM of Einstein Analytics, he pioneered incredible innovation, customer success, and business acceleration from launch to over $300M and a 30,000 strong user community. Prior to Salesforce, Ketan was at Cisco Systems where he led various technology initiatives and initiatives spanning Customer Advocacy, Cisco Certifications & eLearning. Hear more from Cindi Howson here. Sponsored by ThoughtSpot.

reference: Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, Looking from Within, Chapter 5, Attitudes on the Path, pg. 168This episode is also available as a blog post at https://sriaurobindostudies.wordpress.com/2025/09/08/liberation-and-self-perfection-adherence-to-the-divine-intention-in-the-universal-manifestation/Video presentations, interviews and podcast episodes are allavailable on the YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@santoshkrinsky871More information about Sri Aurobindo can be found at www.aurobindo.net  The US editions and links to e-book editions of SriAurobindo's writings can be found at Lotus Press www.lotuspress.com

Have you ever spent 10 minutes fixing a tiny typo in an email, only to feel drained and frustrated afterward? Or maybe you've found yourself correcting a friend's little mistake in conversation, and it left everyone—including you—feeling tense? If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. Today, we're diving into the sneaky habit of nitpicking and perfectionism: why we do it, how it silently drains our energy, and practical steps to break free and actually enjoy life without obsessing over the small stuff. Stick around—this episode is for anyone who's ready to stop sweating the small stuff and start feeling a little lighter, a little freer, and a lot more confident. ✅ ‌ FREE CLASS! LEARN HOW TO STOP CARING WHAT PEOPLE THINK ‌ Don't forget to sign up for our free “How to Stop Caring What People Think” webinar masterclass at https://www.trishblackwell.com/stopcaring ‌ ✅‌ GET ACCELERATED RESULTS: Our next-level coaching happens at: http://www.collegeofconfidence.com ✅ STAY CONNECTED.

Six years ago, I started recording this podcast in a cramped unused shower with my laptop propped on pillows in front of me—and I never imagined back then that PG-ish would still be here today. Despite the roller coaster ride of the last six years, I'm still here because of the real-life human connections the podcast has brought to my life, and the certainty that learning and growing will always matter. Today I talk about why I started PG-ish and what I've learned over the last six years of the podcast, as well as how I've evolved over the last ten years of major life changes. Learning and growing alongside you and your kiddos has been such a joy and journey, and I look forward to continuing the ride with you! Must-listen episodes: Episode 183: Rick Rigsby - How are you living today?  Episode 247: Alain de Botton - Becoming the hero of your life  Episode 210: Gordan Neufeld - Hold their heart to capture their mind Episode 248: Dr. Alia Crum - What you think you become  Episode 319: Susan David - Embracing emotional agility Episode 289: Brene Brown - Clear is kind Episode 290: Claudia Hammond - Permission to rest   As always, I'd love to hear from you! Subscribe, leave a review, or follow PG-ish on IG @pgishparenting, or you can always find me at www.pgishparenting.com.

This is the first episode of Raising Us, a new podcast from A Kids Co. about the questions our kids are already asking...and how we answer them. What do kids learn when they hear “fat” used like an insult? And what do we say when they turn that word on themselves? In this episode, we talk about how to name fatphobia, challenge it, and model true body respect at any size. Back-to-school season often brings comments about weight, growth, and how bodies “should” look. For parents of tweens and teens, it's a critical time to talk about body image, confidence, and how kids feel in their own skin. Model and body activist Tess Holliday shares what it was like growing up in the South, taking up space, and parenting through shame. Later, author and journalist Virginia Sole-Smith offers practical ways to push back on harmful beauty standards and make space for more honest conversations at home. Whether you're unpacking what you grew up hearing or just trying to find the right words, this conversation is a place to begin. Raising Us is hosted by Elise Hu, an award-winning journalist and mom of three, known for her warm, candid approach to tough conversations. Each week, she breaks down big questions families are facing, with help from expert voices and real-life stories. Key Takeaways:“Fat is just another way to have a body.” Reclaiming the word fat helps kids build respect, not shame.“Perfection isn't the goal. Showing up is.” Modeling body acceptance starts with honesty.“If we don't talk about fatphobia, kids will believe the dominant story.” Silence reinforces bias. Conversation builds empathy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A fundraising story that raises millions can also put a life in danger. The biggest storytelling mistake nonprofits make isn't about the money you could lose; it's about the irreversible harm you don't even see you're causing.In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with ethical storytelling expert Diana Farias to uncover this critical issue. Diana shares the powerful and personal story of how she learned that a successful fundraising campaign can have devastating consequences for a story owner. She reveals why even well-intentioned nonprofits are at risk of ruining their reputation and breaking community trust. Discover how to create a simple and consistent process for gathering stories that protects your clients, honors your mission, and ultimately inspires more giving. This conversation provides a clear framework to help you raise money with both confidence and integrity.

We discuss the last games (or fights) for five of the greatest of all time: Rocky Marciano, Willie Mays, Gordie Howe, Jerry Rice, and Kobe Bryant.Books to Complement This Episode: Unbeaten: Rocky Marciano's Fight for Perfection in a Crooked WorldThe Boxing Kings: When American Heavyweights Ruled the RingAmazin': The Miraculous History of New York's Most Beloved Baseball Team24: Life Stories and Lessons from the Say Hey KidShowboat: The Life of Kobe BryantHello Old Sports is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear. Contact the show at HelloOldSports@gmail.com and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HelloOldSportsMentioned in this episode:Sports History Network Theme SongThis theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz https://sites.google.com/view/sportsfanztastic/sports-history-network?authuser=0

SCRIPTURE- Isaiah 7:14"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign; the young woman, pregnant and about to bear a son, shall name him Emmanuel.”REFLECTION- Fr. CarlMUSIC- "Perfection" Instrumental- "Hail Holy Queen Enthroned Above" by The Cathedral SingersNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Tell us what you think about this podcast!In this podcast, Bishop Rader Johnson extends the series beyond the 6 Principles of the Doctrine of Christ. Hebrews 6:1-3 calls us to go on to perfection—to grow beyond the basics and press forward to maturity in Christ. Spiritual growth means bringing our thoughts, desires, and actions under God's Word so we can reflect the life of Jesus.For more lessons and sermons, follow our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@GBT

In this week's episode, I take a look back at the movies and streaming shows I watched in Summer 2025. This coupon code will get you 50% off the audiobook of Ghost in the Serpent, Book #1 in the Ghost Armor series, (as excellently narrated by Hollis McCarthy) at my Payhip store: FALLSERPENT50 The coupon code is valid through September 15, 2025 (please note the shorter expiration date). So if you need a new audiobook this fall, we've got you covered! TRANSCRIPT 00:00:00 Introduction and Writing Updates Hello, everyone. Welcome to Episode 267 of The Pulp Writer Show. My name is Jonathan Moeller. Today is September 5, 2025 and today I'm doing a review roundup of the movies and streaming shows I saw in Summer 2025. Before we do that, we will have Coupon of the Week and a progress update on my current writing and audiobook projects. First up, this week's coupon code will get you 50% off the audiobook of Ghost in the Serpent, Book One in the Ghost Armor series (as excellently narrated by Hollis McCarthy) at my Payhip store. That is FALLSERPENT50. This coupon code will be valid through September 15th, 2025 (exactly one week). So if you need a new audiobook to listen to as we head into fall, we have got you covered. Now for an update on my current writing and audiobook projects. I am pleased to report that the rough draft of Blade of Flames, which will be the first book in my new Blades of Ruin epic fantasy series is finished. The rough draft came at about 90,000 words long, which was what I was aiming for. Next up, I will be writing a short story set as sort of a bonus in that plot line called Thunder Hammer and that will be the backstory of one of the characters in Blade of Flames. And when Blade of Flames comes out (which will hopefully be later this September), newsletter subscribers will get a free ebook copy of Thunder Hammer. So this is an excellent time to subscribe to my newsletter. I am also 8,000 words into Cloak of Worlds. At long last, I am coming back to the Cloak Mage series after nearly a year's absence. Longtime listeners will know the reason was that I had five unfinished series and I wanted to spend the summer of 2025 finishing the unfinished ones and focusing up so I will only have three ongoing series at any given time. I'm hoping Blade of Flames will come out before the end of September and Cloak of Worlds before the end of October, and after that I will be able to return to the Rivah series at long last. In audiobook news, recording is finished on Shield of Power. That will be excellently narrated by Brad Wills and hopefully once it gets through processing and quality assurance and everything, it should be showing up on the various audiobook stores before too much longer. Hollis McCarthy is about halfway through the recording of Ghost in the Siege, which was, as you know, the last book in the Ghost Armor series that just came out. And if all goes well, the audiobook should be coming out probably in October once everything is done with recording and quality assurance and all that. So that is where I'm at with my current writing and audiobook projects. 00:02:34 Main Topic: Summer 2025 Movie/TV Roundup So without further ado, let's head into our main topic. The end of summer is nigh, which means this time for my summer movie review roundup. As is usual for the summer, I saw a lot of movies, so this will be one of the longer episodes. For some reason I ended up watching a bunch of westerns. As always, the movies are ranked from least favorite to most favorite. The grades of course are totally subjective and based on nothing more than my own opinions, impressions, and interpretations. Now on to the movies. First up is the Austin Powers trilogy, the three movies of which came out in 1997, 1999, and 2002. The Austin Powers movies came out just as the Internet really got going in terms of mass adoption, which is likewise why so many Austin Powers and Dr. Evil memes are embedded in online culture. Despite that, I had never really seen any of them all the way through. They've been on in the background on TBS or whatever quite a bit when I visited people, but I've never seen them all. But I happened upon a DVD of the trilogy for $0.25 (USD), so I decided for 25 cents I would give it a go. I would say the movies were funny, albeit not particularly good. Obviously the Austin Powers movies are a parody of the James Bond movies. The movies kind of watch like an extended series of Saturday Night Live skits, only loosely connected, like the skit is what if Dr. Evil had a son named Scott who wasn't impressed with him or another skit was what if a British agent from the ‘60s arrives in the ‘90s and experiences culture clash? What if Dr. Evil didn't understand the concept of inflation and demanded only a million dollars from the United Nations? What if Dr. Evil was actually Austin's brother and they went to school together at Spy Academy? Michael Caine was pretty great as Austin's father. Overall, funny but fairly incoherent. Overall grade: C- Next up is Horrible Bosses, a very dark and very raunchy comedy from about 14 years ago. It came out in 2011. Interestingly, this movie reflects what I think is one of the major crises of the contemporary era, frequent failures of leadership at all levels of society. In the movie Nick, Dale, and Kurt are lifelong friends living in LA and all three of them have truly horrible bosses in their place of employment, ranging from a sociopathic finance director, the company founder's cokehead son, and a boorish dentist with a tendency to sexual harassment. At the bar, they fantasize about killing their horrible bosses and then mutually decide to do something about it. Obviously, they'd all be prime suspects in the murder of their own bosses, but if they killed each other's bosses, that would allow them to establish airtight alibis. However, since Nick, Dale and Kurt are not as bright as they think they are, it all goes hilariously wrong very quickly. Bob Hope has a hilarious cameo. If the best “crude comedies” I've seen are Anchorman, Zoolander, Tropic Thunder, and Dodgeball, and the worst one was MacGruber, I'd say Horrible Bosses lands about in the middle. Overall grade: C Next up is Cowboys and Aliens, which came out in 2011. Now I almost saw this in 2011 when it came out, but I was too busy to go to the theater in July of 2011, so I finally saw it here in 2025 and I would say this was almost a great movie, like the performances were great, the concept was great, the scenery was great, the special effects were great, and the story was packed full of really interesting ideas, but somehow they just didn't coalesce. I'm not entirely sure why. I think upon reflection, it was that the movie is just too overcrowded with too many characters and too many subplots. Anyway, Daniel Craig portrays a man who wakes up with no memory in the Old West, with a mysterious bracelet locked around his wrist. He makes his way to the town of Atonement, and promptly gets arrested because he is apparently a notorious outlaw (which he doesn't remember). While he is locked in jail, space aliens attack the town. The aliens, for unknown reasons, abduct many of the townspeople, and Daniel Craig's character, who is named Jake even if he doesn't remember it, must lead the town's effort to recover their abducted citizens. Harrison's Ford has an excellent performance as this awful cattle baron who nonetheless has virtues of courage and fortitude that you can't help but admire. An excellent performance. That said, the movie was just too packed, and I thought it would work better as a novel. After I watched the movie, it turned out that it was indeed based off a graphic novel. Novels and graphic novels allow for a far more complex story than a movie, and I don't think this movie quite managed to handle the transition from a graphic novel to a film. Overall grade: C Next up is Heads of State, which came out in 2025. This was kind of a stupid movie. However, the fundamental question of any movie, shouted to the audience by Russell Crow in Gladiator is, “are you not entertained?!?” I was thoroughly entertained watching this, so entertained I actually watched it twice. Not everything has to be Shakespeare or a profound meditation on the unresolvable conflicts inherent within human nature. Anyway, John Cena plays Will Derringer, newly elected President of the United States. Idris Elba plays Sam Clark, who has now been the UK Prime Minister for the last six years. Derringer was an action star who parleyed his celebrity into elected office (in the same way Arnold Schwarzenegger did), while Clarke is an army veteran who worked his way up through the UK's political system. Needless to say, the cheerful Derringer and the grim Clarke take an immediate dislike to each other. However, they'll have to team up when Air Force One is shot down, stranding them in eastern Europe. They'll have to make their way home while evading their enemies to unravel the conspiracy that threatens world peace. So half action thriller, half buddy road trip comedy. The premise really doesn't work if you think about it too much for more than thirty seconds, but the movie was funny and I enjoyed it. Jack Quaid really stole his scenes as a crazy but hyper-competent CIA officer. Overall grade: C+ Next up, Captain America: Brave New World, which came out in 2025 and I think this movie ended up on the good side of middling. You can definitely tell it went through a lot of reshoots and retooling, and I suspect the various film industry strikes hit it like a freight train. But we ended up with a reasonably solid superhero thriller. Sam Wilson is now Captain America. He's not superhuman the way Steve Rogers was and doesn't have magic powers or anything, so he kind of fights like the Mandalorian – a very capable fighter who relies on excellent armor. Meanwhile, in the grand American political tradition of failing upward, Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, who spent years persecuting The Hulk and whose meddling caused the Avengers to disband right before Thanos attacked, has now been elected President. To Wilson's surprise, Ross reaches out and wants him to restart the Avengers. But Ross (as we know) did a lot of shady black ops stuff for years, and one of his projects is coming back to haunt him. Wilson finds himself in the middle of a shadowy conspiracy, and it's up to him to figure out what's going on before it's too late. I was amused that lifelong government apparatchik Ross wanted to restart the Avengers, because when the Avengers had their biggest victory in Avengers: Endgame, they were essentially unsanctioned vigilantes bankrolled by a rogue tech billionaire. Overall grade: B- Next up is Ironheart, which came out in 2025. I'd say Ironheart was about 40% very weird and 60% quite good. It's sort of like the modern version of Dr. Faustus. The show got some flak on the Internet from the crossfire between the usual culture war people, but the key to understanding it is to realize that Riri Williams AKA Ironheart is in fact an antihero who's tottering on the edge of becoming a full-blown supervillain. Like Tony Stark, she's a once-in-a-generation scientific talent, but while she doesn't have Stark's alcohol problems, she's emotionally unstable, immature, ruthless, indifferent to collateral damage and consequences, and suffering from severe PTSD after her best friend and stepfather were killed in a drive-by shooting. This volatile mix gets her thrown out of MIT after her experiments cause too much destruction, and she has to go home to Chicago. To get the funds to keep working on her Iron Man armor, she turns to crime, and falls in with a gang of high-end thieves led by a mysterious figure named Hood. It turns out that Hood has actual magic powers, which both disturbs and fascinates Riri. However, Hood got his magic in a pact with a mysterious dark force. When a job goes bad, Riri gains the enmity of Hood and has to go on the run. It also turns out Hood's dark master has become very interested in Riri, which might be a lot more dangerous for everyone in the long run. Overall, I'd say this is about in the same vein as Agatha All Along, an interesting show constructed around a very morally questionable protagonist. Overall grade: B Next up is A Minecraft movie, which came out in 2024. I have to admit, I've never actually played Minecraft, so I know very little about the game and its ecosystem, only what I've generally absorbed by glancing at the news. That said, I think the movie held together quite well, and wasn't deserving of the general disdain it got in the press. (No doubt the $950 million box office compensated for any hurt feelings.) One of the many downsides of rapid technological change in the last fifty years is that the Boomers and Gen X and the Millennials and Gen Z and Gen Alpha have had such radically different formative experiences in childhood that it's harder to relate to each other. Growing up in the 1980s was a wildly different experience than growing up in the 2010s, and growing up in the 2010s was an even more wildly different experience than growing up in the 1960s. Smartphones and social media were dominant in 2020, barely starting in 2010, and implausible science fiction in 2000 and earlier, and so it was like the different generations grew up on different planets, because in some sense they actually did. (A five-year-old relative of mine just started school, and the descriptions of his school compared to what I remember of school really do sound like different planets entirely.) The Minecraft game and A Minecraft Movie might be one of those generation-locked experiences. Anyway, this has gotten very deep digression for what was essentially a portal-based LitRPG movie. A group of people experiencing various life difficulties in a rural Idaho town get sucked into the Minecraft world through a magic portal. There they must combine forces and learn to work together to master the Minecraft world to save it from an evil sorceress. As always, the fundamental question of any movie is the one that Russell Crowe's character shouted to the audience in Gladiator back in 2000. “Are you not entertained?” I admit I was entertained when watching A Minecraft Movie since it was funny and I recognized a lot of the video game mechanics, even though I've never actually played Minecraft. Like, Castlevania II had a night/day cycle the way Minecraft does, and Castlevania II was forty years ago. But that was another digression! I did enjoy A Minecraft Movie. It was kind of crazy, but it committed to the craziness and maintained a consistent creative vision, and I was entertained. Though I did think it was impressive how Jack Black's agent managed to insist that he sing several different times. Overall grade: B Next up is Back to School, which came out in 1986 and this is one of the better ‘80s comedies I've seen. Rodney Dangerfield plays Thornton Melon, who never went to college and is the wealthy owner of a chain of plus-sized clothing stores. His son Jason is attending Great Lakes University, and after Thornton's unfaithful gold-digging wife leaves him (Thornton is mostly relieved by this development), he decides to go visit his son. He quickly discovers that Jason is flailing at college, and decides to enroll to help out his son. Wacky adventures ensue! I quite enjoyed this. The fictional “Great Lakes University” was largely shot at UW-Madison in Wisconsin, which I found amusing because I spent a lot of time at UW-Madison several decades ago as a temporary IT employee. I liked seeing the characters walk past a place where I'd eat lunch outside when the day was nice, that kind of thing. Also, I'm very familiar with how the sausage gets made in higher ed. There's a scene where the dean is asking why Thornton is qualified to enter college, and then it cuts to the dean cheerfully overseeing the groundbreaking of the new Thornton Melon Hall which Thornton just donated, and I laughed so hard I almost hurt myself, because that is exactly how higher ed works. The movie had some pointless nudity, but it was only a few seconds and no doubt gets cut in network broadcasts. Overall grade: B Next up is Whiskey Galore, which came out in 1949 and this is a comedy set in Scotland during World War II. The villagers living on an isolated island have no whiskey due to wartime rationing. However, when a government ship carrying 50,000 cases of whiskey runs aground near the island, wacky hijinks ensue. I have to admit the first half of the movie was very slow and deliberate, gradually setting up all the pieces for later. Then, once the shipwreck happens, things pick up and the movie gets much funnier. Definitely worth watching both as a good comedy movie and an artifact of its time. A modicum of historical knowledge is required – if you don't know what the Home Guard is, you might have to do some Googling to understand the context of some of the scenes. Regrettably, the version I watched did not have captioning, so I had to pay really close attention to understand what the characters were saying, because some of the accents were very strong. Overall grade: B Next up is Happy Gilmore 2, which came out in 2025. This was dumb and overstuffed with celebrity cameos but thoroughly hilarious and I say this even though it uses one of my least favorite story tropes, namely “hero of previous movie is now a middle age loser.” However, the movie leads into it for comedy. When Happy Gilmore accidentally kills his wife with a line drive, he spirals into alcoholism and despair. But his five children still love him, and when his talented daughter needs tuition for school, Happy attempts to shake off his despair and go back to golf to win the money. But Happy soon stumbles onto a sinister conspiracy led by an evil CEO to transform the game of golf into his own personal profit center. Happy must team up with his old nemesis Shooter McGavin to save golf itself from the evil CEO. Amusingly, as I've said before, the best Adam Sandler movies are almost medieval. In medieval fables, it was common for a clever peasant to outwit pompous lords, corrupt priests, and greedy merchants. The best Adam Sandler protagonist remains an everyman who outwits the modern equivalent of pompous lords and corrupt priests, in this case an evil CEO. Overall grade: B+ Next up is Superman, which came out in 2025 and I thought this was pretty good and very funny at times. I think it caught the essential nature of Superman. Like, Superman should be a Lawful Good character. If he was a Dungeons and Dragons character, he would be a paladin. People on the Internet tend to take the characterization of superheroes seriously to perhaps an unhealthy degree, but it seems the best characterization of Superman is as an earnest, slightly dorky Boy Scout who goes around doing good deeds. The contrast of that good-hearted earnestness with his godlike abilities that would allow him to easily conquer and rule the world is what makes for an interesting character. I also appreciated how the movie dispensed with the overused trope of the Origin Story and just got down to business. In this movie, Lex Luthor is obsessed with destroying Superman and is willing to use both super-advanced technology and engineered geopolitical conflict to do it. Superman, because he's essentially a decent person, doesn't comprehend just how depraved Luthor is, and how far Luthor is willing to go out of petty spite. (Ironically, a billionaire willing to destroy the world out of petty spite is alas, quite realistic). Guy Gardener (“Jerkish Green Lantern”) and the extremely competent and the extremely exasperated Mr. Terrific definitely stole all their scenes. The director of the movie, James Gunn, was quite famously fired from Disney in 2018 for offensive jokes he had made on Twitter back when he was an edgy young filmmaker with an alcohol problem. I suppose Mr. Gunn can rest content knowing that Superman made more money than any Marvel movie released this year. Overall grade: A-   Next up is Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, which came out in 1988. This was a very strange movie, but nonetheless, one with an ambitious premise, strong performances, and a strong artistic vision. It's set in post WWII Los Angeles, and “toons” (basically cartoon characters) live and work alongside humans. Private eye Eddie Valiant hates toons since one of them killed his brother five years ago. However, he's hired by the head of a studio who's having trouble with one of his toon actors, Roger Rabbit. Roger's worried his wife Jessica is having an affair, and Valiant obtains pictures of Jessica playing patty cake (not a euphemism, they actually were playing patty cake) with another man. Roger has an emotional breakdown, and soon the other man winds up dead, and Roger insists he's innocent. Valiant and Roger find themselves sucked into a dangerous conspiracy overseen by a ruthless mastermind. This movie was such an interesting cultural artifact. It perfectly follows the structure of a ‘40s film noir movie, but with cartoons, and the dissonance between film noir and the cheerfulness of the toons was embraced and used as a frequently source of comedy. In fact, when the grim and dour Valiant uses the toons' comedy techniques as a tactical improvisation in a moment of mortal peril, it's both hilarious and awesome. Christopher Lloyd's performance as the villainous Judge Doom was amazing. (I don't think it's a spoiler to say that he's villainous, because his character is named Judge Doom and he's literally wearing a black hat.) Like, his performance perfectly captures something monstrous that is trying very hard to pretend to be human and not quite getting it right. And the amount of work it must have taken to make this movie staggers the mind. Nowadays, having live actors interact with cartoon characters is expensive, but not unduly so. It's a frequent technique. You see it all the time in commercials when a housewife is smiling at an animated roll of paper towels or something, and Marvel's essentially been doing it for years. But this was 1988! Computer animation was still a ways off. They had to shoot the movie on analog film, and then hand-draw all the animation and successfully match it to the live film. It wouldn't have worked without the performance of Bob Hoskins as Eddie Valiant, who plays everything perfectly straight in the same way Michael Caine did in A Muppet Christmas Carol. So kind of a strange movie, but definitely worth watching. And it has both Disney and Warner Brothers animated characters in the same movie, which is something we will never, ever see again. Overall grade: A Next up is K-Pop Demon Hunters, which came out in 2025. Like Who framed Roger Rabbit?, this is a very strange movie, but nonetheless with a clear and focused artistic vision. It is a cultural artifact that provides a fascinating look into a world of which I have no knowledge or interest, namely K-pop bands and their dueling fandoms. Anyway, the plot is that for millennia, female Korean musicians have used the magic of their voices to keep the demons locked away in a demon world. The current incarnation is a three-woman K-Pop group called Huntrix, and they are on the verge of sealing away the demons forever. Naturally, the Demon King doesn't like this, so one of his cleverer minions comes up with a plan. They'll start a Demon K-Pop Boy Band! Disguised as humans, the demon K-Pop group will win away Huntrix's fans, allowing them to breach the barrier and devour the world. However, one of the Huntrix musicians is half-demon, and she starts falling for the lead demon in the boy band, who is handsome and of course has a dark and troubled past. Essentially a musical K-drama follows. I have to admit I know practically nothing about K-Pop groups and their dueling fandoms, other than the fact that they exist. However, this was an interesting movie to watch. The animation was excellent, it did have a focused vision, and there were some funny bits. Overall grade: A Next up is Clarkson's Farm Season Four, which came out in 2025. A long time ago in the ‘90s, I watched the episode of Frasier where Frasier and Niles attempt to open a restaurant and it all goes horribly (yet hilariously) wrong. At the time, I had no money, but I promised myself that I would never invest in a restaurant. Nothing I have seen or learned in the subsequent thirty years has ever changed that decision. Season 4 of Clarkson's Farm is basically Jeremy Clarkson, like Frasier and Niles, attempting to open a restaurant, specifically a British pub. On paper it's a good idea, since Clarkson can provide the pub with food produced from his own farm and other local farmers. However, it's an enormous logistical nightmare, and Clarkson must deal with miles of red tape, contractors, and a ballooning budget, all while trying to keep his farm from going under. An excellent and entertaining documentary into the difficulties of both the farming life and food service. I still don't want to own a restaurant! Overall grade: A Next up is Tombstone, which came out in 1993. The Western genre of fiction is interesting because it's limited to such a very specific period of time and geographical region. Like the “Wild West” period that characterizes the Western genre really only lasted as a historical period from about 1865 to roughly 1890. The Western genre was at its most popular in movies from the 1940s and the 1960s, and I wonder if it declined because cultural and demographic changes made it unpopular to romanticize the Old West the way someone like Walt Disney did at Disneyland with “Frontierland.” Of course, the genre lives on in different forms in grittier Western movies, neo-Westerns like Yellowstone and Longmire, and a lot of the genre's conventions apply really well to science fiction. Everyone talks about Firefly being the first Space Western, but The Mandalorian was much more successful and was basically a Western in space (albeit with occasional visits from Space Wizards). Anyway! After that long-winded introduction, let's talk about Tombstone. When Val Kilmer died earlier this year, the news articles mentioned Tombstone as among his best work, so I decided to give it a watch. The plot centers around Wyatt Earp, played by Kurt Russell, who has decided to give up his career in law enforcement and move to Tombstone, Arizona, a silver mining boomtown, in hopes of making his fortune. However, Tombstone is mostly controlled by the Cowboys outlaw gang, and Earp is inevitably drawn into conflict with them. With the help of his brothers and Doc Holliday (Val Kilmer's character), Earp sets out to bring some law and order to Tombstone, whether the Cowboys like it or not. Holliday is in the process of dying from tuberculosis, which makes him a formidable fighter since he knows getting shot will be a less painful and protracted death than the one his illness will bring him. Kilmer plays him as a dissolute, scheming warrior-poet who nonetheless is a very loyal friend. Definitely a classic of the Western genre, and so worth watching. Overall grade: A Next up is Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning, the eighth Mission Impossible movie. Of the eight movies, I think the sixth one was the best one, but this one comes in at a close second. It continues on from Dead Reckoning. Ethan Hunt now possesses the key that will unlock the source code of the Entity, the malicious AI (think ChatGPT, but even more obviously evil) that is actively maneuvering the world's nuclear powers into destroying each other so the Entity can rule the remnants of humanity. Unfortunately, the Entity's source code is sitting in a wrecked Russian nuclear sub at the bottom of the Bering Sea. Even more unfortunately, the Entity knows that Hunt has the key and is trying to stop him, even as the Entity's former minion and Hunt's bitter enemy Gabriel seeks to seize control of the Entity for himself. A sense of apocalyptic doom hangs over the movie, which works well to build tension. Once again, the world is doomed, unless Ethan Hunt and his allies can save the day. The tension works extremely well during the movie's underwater sequence, and the final airborne duel between Hunt and Gabriel. I don't know if they're going to make any more Mission Impossible movies after this (they are insanely expensive), but if this is the end, it is a satisfying conclusion for the character of Ethan Hunt and the Impossible Mission Force. Overall grade: A Next up is Deep Cover, which came out in 2025. This is described as a comedy thriller, and I didn't know what to expect when I watched it, but I really enjoyed it. Bryce Dallas Howard plays Kat, a struggling comedy improv teacher living in London. Her best students are Marlon (played by Orlando Bloom), a dedicated character actor who wants to portray gritty realism but keeps getting cast in tacky commercials, and Hugh (played by Nick Mohammed), an awkward IT worker with no social skills whatsoever. One day, the three of them are recruited by Detective Sergeant Billings (played by Sean Bean) of the Metropolitan Police. The Met wants to use improv comedians to do undercover work for minor busts with drug dealers. Since it plays 200 pounds a pop, the trio agrees. Of course, things rapidly spiral out of control, because Kat, Marlon, and Hugh are actually a lot better at improv than they think, and soon they find themselves negotiating with the chief criminals of the London underworld. What follows is a movie that is both very tense and very funny. Kat, Marlon, and Hugh are in way over their heads, and will have to do the best improv of their lives to escape a very grisly fate. Whether Sean Bean dies or not (as is tradition), you will just have to watch the movie and find out. Overall grade: A Next up is Puss in Boots: The Final Wish, which came out in 2022. I don't personally know much about the history of Disney as a corporation, and I don't much care, but I do have several relatives who are very interested in the history of the Disney corporation, and therefore I have picked up some by osmosis. Apparently Disney CEO Michael Eisner forcing out Jeffrey Katzenberg in the 1990s was a very serious mistake, because Katzenberg went on to co-found DreamWorks, which has been Disney's consistent rival for animation for the last thirty years. That's like “CIA Regime Change Blowback” levels of creating your own enemy. Anyway, historical ironies aside, Puss in Boots: The Final Wish was a funny and surprisingly thoughtful animated movie. Puss in Boots is a legendary outlaw and folk hero, but he has used up eight of his nine lives. An ominous bounty hunter who looks like a humanoid wolf begins pursuing him, and the Wolf is able to shrug off the best of Puss In Boots' attacks. Panicked, Puss hides in a retirement home for elderly cats, but then hears rumors of the magical Last Wish. Hoping to use it to get his lives back, Puss In Boots sets off on the quest. It was amusing how Little Jack Horner and Goldilocks and the Three Bears were rival criminal gangs seeking the Last Wish. Overall grade: A Next up is Chicken People, which came out in 2016. A good documentary film gives you a glimpse into an alien world that you would otherwise never visit. In this example, I have absolutely no interest in competitive chicken breeding and will only raise chickens in my backyard if society ever collapses to the level that it becomes necessary for survival. That said, this was a very interesting look into the work of competitive chicken breeding. Apparently, there is an official “American Standard of Perfection” for individual chicken breeds, and the winner of the yearly chicken competition gets the title “Super Grand Champion.” Not Grand Champion, Super Grand Champion! That looks impressive on a resume. It is interesting how chicken breeding is in some sense an elaborate Skinner Box – like you can deliberately set out to breed chickens with the desirable traits on the American Standard of Perfection, but until the chickens are hatched and grow up, you don't know how they're going to turn out, so you need to try again and again and again… Overall grade: A Next up is The Mask of Zoro, which came out in 1998. I saw this in the theatre when it came out 27 years ago, but that was 27 years ago, and I don't have much of a memory of it, save that I liked it. So when I had the chance to watch it again, I did! Anthony Hopkins plays Diego de la Vega, who has the secret identity of Zorro in the final days before Mexico breaks away from the Spanish Empire. With Mexico on the verge of getting its independence, Diego decides to hang up his sword and mask and focus on his beloved wife and daughter. Unfortunately, the military governor Don Montero realizes Diego is Zorro, so has him arrested, kills his wife, and steals his baby daughter to raise as his own. Twenty years later, a bandit named Alejandro loses his brother and best friends to a brutal cavalry commander. It turns out that Montero is returning to California from Spain, and plans to seize control of California as an independent republic (which, of course, will be ruled by him). In the chaos, Diego escapes from prison and encounters a drunken Alejandro, and stops him from a futile attack upon the cavalry commander. He then proposes a pact – Diego will train Alejandro as the next Zorro, and together they can take vengeance upon the men who wronged them. This was a good movie. It was good to see that my taste in movies 27 years ago wasn't terrible. It manages to cram an entire epic plot into only 2 hours and 20 minutes. In some ways it was like a throwback to a ‘40s movie but with modern (for the ‘90s) production values, and some very good swordfights. Overall grade: A Next up is Wick is Pain, which came out in 2025. I've seen all four John Wick movies and enjoyed them thoroughly, though I've never gotten around to any of the spinoffs. Wick is Pain is a documentary about how John Wick went from a doomed indie movie with a $6.5 million hole in its budget to one of the most popular action series of the last few decades. Apparently Keanu Reeves made an offhand joke about how “Wick is pain” and that became the mantra of the cast and crew, because making an action movie that intense really was a painful experience. Definitely worth watching if you enjoyed the John Wick movies or moviemaking in general. Overall grade: A The last movie I saw this summer was Game Night, which came out in 2016. It was a hilarious, if occasionally dark comedy action thriller. Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams play Max and Annie Davis, a married couple who are very competitive and enjoy playing games of all kinds. Jason has an unresolved conflict with his brother Brooks, and one night Brooks invites them over for game night, which Max resents. Halfway through the evening, Brooks is kidnapped, with Max and Annie assume is part of the game. However, Brooks really is involved in something shady. Hilarity ensues, and it's up to Max and Annie to rescue Brooks and stay alive in the process. This was really funny, though a bit dark in places. That said, Max and Annie have a loving and supportive marriage, so it was nice to see something like that portrayed on the screen. Though this also leads to some hilarity, like when Annie accidentally shoots Max in the arm. No spoilers, but the punchline to that particular sequence was one of the funniest things I've ever seen. Overall grade: A So no A+ movie this time around, but I still saw a bunch of solid movies I enjoyed. One final note, I have to admit, I've really come to respect Adam Sandler as an entertainer, even if his movies and comedy are not always to my taste. He makes what he wants, makes a lot of money, ensures that his friends get paid, and then occasionally takes on a serious role in someone else's movie when he wants to flex some acting muscles. I am not surprised that nearly everyone who's in the original Happy Gilmore who was still alive wanted to come back for Happy Gilmore 2. So that is it for this week. Thank you for listening to The Pulp Writer Show. I hope you found the show enjoyable and perhaps a guide to some good movies to watch. A reminder that you can listen to all the back episodes at https://thepulpwritershow.com. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcasting platform of choice. Stay safe and stay healthy and see you all next week.  

Lisa's story is a testament to what having a community of people can do for your health journey. Lisa touches on many familiar MTHFR issues - allergies, impatience, food sensitivities, blood sugar imbalance, struggles with weight, lip tie, and perfectionism. Her biggest hurdles on this journey have been about self-acceptance and also learning to have patience and not over-push her body. She is sharing those lessons with her children and grandchildren in a way that is so inspiring for all of us with MTHFR.OO:41 - Lisa's health journey02:17 - Learning patience02:37 - One step at a time03:07 - Signs of MTHFR in the family tree04:01 - Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)05:12 - The power of community05:55 - Restaurant food and food sensitivities08:23 - Blood sugar and weight loss10:00 - Accepting yourself11:07 - Trust yourselfThanks so much for watching! I have so many other resources for you. Here is the full-length version of this interview: https://youtu.be/WJkUGiMWMXYIf you would like to tell your own MTHFR story, you can schedule with Dr. Amy here: https://calendly.com/amy-tohealthwiththat/new-meetingCheck out the website first for lots of FREE stuff:WEBSITE: https://tohealthwiththat.com/ You can now Pre-order the book MTHFR Easy: Get Healthy For Life. https://www.amazon.com/MTHFR-Get-Started-Guide-Healthy-ebook/dp/B0FLFCY1YQ/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3E616JJOYSA12&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.7WXbrOZ6vkAu5Ncg9lJLavpPvim_O1kOvqp3LTim_snTq6Gahvu-NhWvC1mZurA6.XnOpY_FYGI_DbfEx9NmEwRrSM2USTXkw_HTykBFrMtw&dib_tag=se&keywords=amy+neuzil&qid=1755710249&sprefix=amy+neuzil%2Caps%2C98&sr=8-2 Look for Kindle, audiobook, and paperback versions also to be released on October 24, 2025.GENETIC ROCKSTARS (an MTHFR, methylation, and genetics community): community.tohealthwiththat.comThis story was shared graciously and generously with permission to post on the podcast, Youtube, and in print if that happens in the future.

Send us a textMy coach's 30 Day Money ChallengeThe cosmic awakening of 2025 requires us to address our relationship with money, power, and our energetic focus as we face humanity's collective crossroads.• Learning to see beyond manufactured scarcity and recognizing money as a tool that magnifies who we already are• Healing our relationship with money through mindset work, energy healing, and conscious investment in ourselves• Understanding that financial empowerment can support soul-led individuals in creating positive change• Balancing spiritual perspectives with tangible 3D action during global crises• Recognizing our individual impact, even when it feels small or insignificant• Moving beyond "thoughts and prayers" to engage with the world as it is• Remembering that global consciousness is unstoppable despite attempts to divide us• Choosing which timeline we wish to experience through our focus and energy• Finding ways to feel safer while maintaining connection with others• Living fully now instead of waiting for external changes

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Embracing Chaos: Finding Perfection in Imperfect Moments Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-09-07-22-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El sol de finals d'estiu brillava amb força damunt el Parc de la Ciutadella.En: The late summer sun shone brightly over Parc de la Ciutadella.Ca: La Gemma, amb el seu quadern de dibuix a la mà, caminava al costat del seu pare, en Llorenç, i la seva germana petita, la Marta.En: Gemma, with her sketchbook in hand, walked alongside her father, Llorenç, and her little sister, Marta.Ca: El parc estava ple de flors i el verd dels arbres era intens, mentre el suau soroll de l'aigua de la Font de la Cascada omplia l'aire.En: The park was full of flowers and the green of the trees was intense, while the gentle sound of water from the Font de la Cascada filled the air.Ca: La Gemma volia aprofitar aquesta sortida familiar per capturar un moment especial.En: Gemma wanted to make the most of this family outing to capture a special moment.Ca: Després, quan el seu pare marxés a treballar fora de la ciutat, podria mirar aquell dibuix i recordar el dia.En: Later on, when her father would go to work outside the city, she could look at that drawing and remember the day.Ca: Però no era tan fàcil com semblava.En: But it wasn't as easy as it seemed.Ca: "Vull jugar!En: "I want to play!"Ca: ", cridava la Marta mentre corria sense parar.En: shouted Marta as she ran non-stop.Ca: Desesperada, la Gemma intentava seguir les seves passes amb el llapis, però era complicat.En: Desperate, Gemma tried to follow her steps with her pencil, but it was complicated.Ca: Mentrestant, en Llorenç estava absort en el seu telèfon, responent missatges de treball.En: Meanwhile, Llorenç was absorbed in his phone, responding to work messages.Ca: La paciència de la Gemma començava a esgotar-se.En: Gemma's patience started to wear thin.Ca: Va aturar-se un moment i va pensar.En: She stopped for a moment and thought.Ca: "Ja ho sé", va dir.En: "I got it," she said.Ca: "Fem un picnic!En: "Let's have a picnic!"Ca: " Va buscar un racó tranquil, una ombra sota un arbre, i va estendre una manta.En: She looked for a quiet corner, a spot under a tree's shade, and spread out a blanket.Ca: "Aquí estaràs feliç, Marta, i podrem menjar alguna cosa mentre faig el meu dibuix.En: "Here you will be happy, Marta, and we can eat something while I do my drawing."Ca: "Tots s'assegueren i la brisa del parc era refrescant.En: They all sat down, and the park's breeze was refreshing.Ca: La Marta es va tranquil·litzar amb un suc a la mà, però, quan la rialla va ser més alta, sense voler va tombar el got.En: Marta calmed down with a juice in her hand, but when her laughter was at its loudest, she accidentally knocked over the glass.Ca: El suc va caure directe al dibuix de la Gemma.En: The juice fell directly onto Gemma's drawing.Ca: En aquell moment, la seva obra gairebé acabada es va desfer sota la taca taronja.En: In that moment, her almost finished piece dissolved under the orange stain.Ca: La frustració es va apoderar d'ella, però només un instant.En: Frustration overtook her but only for an instant.Ca: La Marta va començar a plorar, espantada.En: Marta began to cry, scared.Ca: En Llorenç va aixecar la mirada del mòbil i, veient el desastre, es va riure tímidament.En: Llorenç looked up from his phone and, seeing the disaster, laughed timidly.Ca: "Disculpa, Gemma", va dir.En: "Sorry, Gemma," he said.Ca: "Ja sé que ha estat un dia complicat.En: "I know it's been a tough day.Ca: Prometo passar més temps amb vosaltres.En: I promise to spend more time with you guys."Ca: "Gemma va abraçar la seva germana.En: Gemma hugged her sister.Ca: Tots van començar a riure junts.En: They all started to laugh together.Ca: Potser el dibuix no era perfecte, però aquest moment sí que seria inoblidable.En: Perhaps the drawing wasn't perfect, but that moment would indeed be unforgettable.Ca: Aquella tarda, la Gemma va aprendre una nova lliçó.En: That afternoon, Gemma learned a new lesson.Ca: La perfecció es troba molt sovint en el caos de la vida quotidiana.En: Perfection is often found in the chaos of everyday life.Ca: I que els moments que comparteix amb la seva família, amb totes les seves imperfeccions, són realment els més preciosos de tots.En: And that the moments she shares with her family, with all their imperfections, are truly the most precious of all.Ca: I així, amb el propòsit de La Diada a l'horitzó, els tres es van prometre aprofitar cada moment junts.En: And so, with the prospect of La Diada on the horizon, the three of them promised to make the most of every moment together.Ca: La tardor s'acostava, però aquell últim cap de setmana d'estiu al Parc de la Ciutadella romandria en la memòria de la Gemma per molt de temps.En: Autumn was approaching, but that last summer weekend at Parc de la Ciutadella would remain in Gemma's memory for a long time. Vocabulary Words:the sun: el solthe park: el parcthe green: el verdthe gentle sound: el suau sorollthe waterfall: la cascadathe outing: la sortidathe drawing: el dibuixto seem: semblarthe pencil: el llapisto respond: respondrethe message: el missatgeto be absorbed: ésser absortthe patience: la paciènciato wear thin: esgotar-seto shout: cridardesperate: desesperadathe breeze: la brisato calm down: tranquil·litzar-seto knock over: tombarthe stain: la tacato dissolve: desfer-sethe frustration: la frustracióto embrace: abraçarto laugh: riureunforgettable: inoblidablethe lesson: la lliçóchaos: el caoseveryday life: la vida quotidianathe prospect: el propòsitthe horizon: l'horitzó

Get ready for our final breakdown of Pluto the Series Episode 6 packed with Big Gay Drama, dreamy romance, and heartfelt moments! This episode takes us deep into the relationship dynamics between Ai and May as they navigate love, friendship, and healing. From recreating a dreamy restaurant setting to swoon-worthy serenades, it's a whirlwind of queer magic and emotional growth.We dive into the details: the big gestures, cheeky banter, and that epic shared dream sequence that left us all in our feels. Let's not forget the big gay energy radiating from Jan! Iconic. May's mastermind moves? Perfection.What did you think of the dreamy romance and the epic drama? Drop your theories, reactions, and favorite moments in the comments! Don't forget to hit subscribe for more LGBTQ+ media breakdowns, queer representation, and all the feels. Let's celebrate these stories together! If you want to support us and gain access to bonus content become a Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BGE Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wanna talk queer media with us and our friends? Join our Discord: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BGE Discord Link⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This episode along with all our other episodes are now available on YouTube: Check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BGE Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠As always, please feel free to reach out to us on all the things. We love hearing from you!Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@biggayenergypod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter      ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@biggayenergypod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Tik Tok      ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@Biggayenergypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tumblr      ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@biggay

The Cello Sherpa Podcast Host, Joel Dallow, interviews cellist Alban Gerhardt. Alban is enjoying a 35 year career as an International Soloist and Chamber Musician. Having performed with most of the major American and European orchestras, Alban shares stories going back to his roots, growing up as a young child fascinated by classical music in a musical environment, with a father who was a violinist in the Berlin Philharmonic. He talks about how he has built an international career over several decades, despite the fact that the cello was not his first love, and he offers his advice to young musicians hoping to follow in his footsteps, and much more. For more information on Alban: https://albangerhardt.com/You can also find Alban on Instagram and Facebook: @albancelloIf you are looking for in person/virtual cello lessons, or orchestral repertoire audition coachings, check out www.theCelloSherpa.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads & YouTube @theCelloSherpaFor more information on our sponsor: www.CLEAResources.com 

Mama, don't hang your hat on your current season. Life is always changing, but Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow!“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

Continuing their illuminating conversation, Lisa Bilyeu and Dr. Andrew Huberman return in Part 2 to unravel even more of the mysteries behind male behavior, relationships, and the neuroscience that underpins it all. Picking up where Part 1 left off, this episode transitions into the hot-button topics of jealousy, male self-worth, and the unique pressures that men face today. Andrew breaks down the pitfalls of toxic jealousy, the motivation behind “more money, more muscle” mindsets, and why so many men struggle with overwhelm and self-destructive coping strategies—including the often-taboo subject of porn. The duo also tackles emotionally charged terrain like shame, vulnerability, and why crying means something so different for men than it does for women. Through honest stories and raw admissions, Andrew shares what helps men build resilience, manage emotional pain, and ultimately open up to healing in partnership. Lisa and Andrew don't shy away from the cultural shifts facing both men and women, unpacking the future of relationships, marriage, and what it takes to foster genuine intimacy. If you want the real story on male mental health, the role of partnership as a catalyst for growth, and practical advice for creating safer, more compassionate connections—this part is a must-listen. SHOWNOTES 26:33 - Jealousy: Growth vs. Destruction in Men 29:52 - Struggling with Overwhelm: Addiction, Porn, and Escapism 33:58 - The Trap of Pornography: Dopamine & Motivation Gone Wrong 38:41 - Why Women (and Lisa) Love True Crime: The Evolutionary Perspective 41:18 - The Ultimate Fears: Men Fear Shame, Women Fear for Safety 44:55 - The Pressure of Perfection on Men & Changing Gender Dynamics 49:39 - Navigating Career, Motherhood, and Social Judgement as Women 53:09 - The Need for Reflection: Mentors, Elders, and Self-Inquiry 56:59 - What Men Really Want in Partnership: Challenge vs. Comfort 59:28 - Emotional Catharsis: Purging Shame and Vulnerability Safely 1:03:00 - Healing the Divide: Compassion, Understanding, and Moving Forward FOLLOW ANDREW HUBERMAN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hubermanlab/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/hubermanlab YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hubermanlab Website: https://www.hubermanlab.com/ CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS OneSkin: Get 15% off with code LISA at ⁠⁠https://oneskin.co ⁠⁠ BIOptimizers: Code IMPACTNOW for 15% off ⁠⁠https://bioptimizers.com/impact⁠⁠ Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠⁠https://shopify.com/lisa⁠⁠ Macy's: Upgrade your glam at ⁠⁠https://macys.com⁠⁠ SleepMe: Visit ⁠⁠https://sleep.me/woi⁠⁠ to get your Chilipad and save 20% with code WOI. Try it risk-free with their 30-night sleep trial and free shipping! Vital Proteins: Get 20% off by going to ⁠⁠https://www.vitalproteins.com⁠⁠ and entering promo code WOI at check out. FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/⁠ Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact⁠ Tik Tok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Real Things Living, Brigitte Cutshall sits down with Pia Leichter—author of "Welcome to the Creative Club" and founder of Kollektiv Studio—to explore how creativity shows up in our daily lives. Pia shares her journey of breaking through limiting beliefs, writing her book, and embracing collaboration as a powerful form of expression. Together, they discuss why creativity isn't about perfection—it's about curiosity, fun, and leaning into what makes us authentically human.3 Takeaways:(1) Creativity is for everyone. It's not limited to artists—curiosity and problem-solving are forms of creativity we practice every day.(2) Perfection blocks connection. Letting go of the need to “be the best” opens space for play, growth, and authentic expression.(3) Collaboration multiplies creativity. Working with others—whether in music, writing, or business—sparks unexpected ideas and meaningful impact.Learn more about Pia's work at https://kollektiv.studioAnd don't forget to subscribe to Real Things Living for more inspiring conversations that celebrate creativity, resilience, and authentic living.

In this episode of the Canadian Investor podcast, Simon (fresh off vacation) and Dan Kent dig into a jam-packed news and earnings episode. We start with the U.S. antitrust ruling on Google. Then we break down Alimentation Couche-Tard’s quarter which was mostly positive. We finish with earnings from TD and Royal Bank as well as our takeaways from Banks earnings this season. Tickers of stocks discussed: TD.TO, RY.TO, GOOG, ATD.TO Check out our portfolio by going to Jointci.com Our Website Our New Youtube Channel! Canadian Investor Podcast Network Twitter: @cdn_investing Simon’s twitter: @Fiat_Iceberg Braden’s twitter: @BradoCapital Dan’s Twitter: @stocktrades_ca Want to learn more about Real Estate Investing? Check out the Canadian Real Estate Investor Podcast! Apple Podcast - The Canadian Real Estate Investor Spotify - The Canadian Real Estate Investor Web player - The Canadian Real Estate Investor Asset Allocation ETFs | BMO Global Asset Management Sign up for Fiscal.ai for free to get easy access to global stock coverage and powerful AI investing tools. Register for EQ Bank, the seamless digital banking experience with better rates and no nonsense.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Williams & Brent Blum break down all of the heavy hitters from Iowa State's 55-7 victory over South Dakota. Recapping week one of Big 12 football. Looking ahead to the 2025 Cy-Hawk game. Guessing the week 2 point spreads and more, courtesy of Mechdyne. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever second guessed yourself or worried about not “fitting in”? In this episode, I sit down with Peloton Master Instructor Cody Rigsby to talk about what it really takes to build confidence, stand out, and stay grounded while chasing your goals. We dive into how Cody turned self-doubt into presence, how to handle criticism without shrinking, and why your quirks are actually your superpower. I also share how to reframe failure as feedback, why confidence is built through action (not waiting until you feel ready), and how rejection can actually become your best redirection. Get ready to let go of the pressure to be perfect, and learn how to own what makes you… YOU. In This Episode You Will Learn How to REFRAME failure as FEEDBACK. What to do when CRITICISM or JUDGMENT makes you want to shrink. How to recognize your QUIRKS as your SUPERPOWER. Why AUTHENTICITY attracts more opportunities than PERFECTION. Daily habits that help you show up CONSISTENTLY with energy. How to stop COMPARISON from stealing your confidence. Resources + Links Cody's Website: ⁠https://www.onepeloton.com/instructors/bike/codyrigsby Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/monahan Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning at NetSuite.com/MONAHAN. Want to do more and spend less like Uber, 8x8, and Databricks Mosaic? Take a free test drive of OCI at oracle.com/MONAHAN. Get 10% off your first Mitopure order at timeline.com/CONFIDENCE. Get 15% off your first order when you use code CONFIDENCE15 at checkout at jennikayne.com. Call my digital clone at 201-897-2553!  Visit heathermonahan.com Sign up for my mailing list: heathermonahan.com/mailing-list/  Overcome Your Villains is Available NOW! Order here: https://overcomeyourvillains.com  If you haven't yet, get my first book Confidence Creator Follow Heather on Instagram & LinkedIn Cody on Instagram