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This week on RHOC, Emily hosts the ladies at her mother in law's Persian party despite strain with Shane, Carmella starts noticing a pattern with Vicki, Alexis shows up with a glare and a stare, and more!Follow me on social media, find links to merch, Patreon and more here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this edition of Roqe, Jian is joined by David Marino, better known as David Shekamoo - the American chef, foodie and content creator who has built a huge following by diving headfirst into Persian food and culture. Joining from Dubai, David tells the unlikely and very funny story of how an American guy married into an Iranian family and gradually became, well...very Persian. From his first encounters with Iranian food to ghormeh sabzi, tahdig, kabab, taarof and Iranian hospitality, David explains how "Shekamoo" became an online identity, why his videos connected so strongly with Iranians, and how his mission has grown into connecting East and West through food, language and culture. Plus, Pegah Ganji joins Jian for another edition of the Roqe Roundup, with some of the issues, debates and stories making waves in the Iranian space. And Jian opens with a pointed essay about the United Nations, its treatment of representatives of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and what he argues is a troubling double standard: "THE U.N. IS A CLOWN SHOW." This episode is brought to you with the support of Avoca Chocolates - @avocachocolates - avocachocolates.com (https://avocachocolates.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Follow Jian on Instagram: @JianGhomeshi Meezoon basheen.
Hello True Drews!For this week's episode, we get to follow along as Nancy, Bess and George go to The Great Midwestern Cat Show!Nancy, Bess and George's former babysitter has entered her Persian cat, Purrfect into the show. Purrfect has quite the pedigree and is also set to star in a national cat food television commercial, but everything is not sunshine and roses.Andrea and her husband Tad have hit a rocky spot in their relationship and tensions are running high between the other cat show competitors. And just before Purrfect is set to take the stage--she goes missing!Could another competitor have stolen the pedigreed Persian? Andrea's soon to be ex? Or is there a more sinister plot behind the kitty kidnapping?Tune in to find out and I hope you enjoy this purrrfffeecct mystery and episode!
learn how word order is structured to ensure a sentence makes sense
Dada was a high Persian official serving in the court of King Shapur II, and secretly a Christian. When he was appointed governor of a province some way from the court, Dada began to worship and proclaim Christ openly. This came to the attention of the King, who sent one of his sons, Gubarlahas, to try and execute him. Dada was condemned and condemned to be thrown into a fiery furnace. But when Dada made the sign of the Cross, the fire went out, amazing the Prince and eventually leading him to convert to Christ. The outraged King had his son thrown in prison and put to torture. Gubarlahas endured days of hideous torture without complaint and, though he had been subjected to horrible mutilations, emerged from his cell unscathed. This wonder led others, including two more of the King's own children or kin, to embrace Christ. Kazoy, the King's daughter, was allowed to enter into rest as soon as her tortures began. Gubarlahas was miraculously baptised in the midst of further tortures: A voice from on high pronounced the words of baptism, and a shower of water and oil fell on the Martyr. Not long afterward, he perished, along with Dada and Kasdios, one of Gubarlahas' kinsmen who had been convinced of the Truth by the miracles he had seen.
Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
The Talmud (Berachot 26a) distinguishes between ordinary restrooms and those used in ancient Persia, which featured a long, diagonal duct beneath the room, such that the bodily waste never remained in the room. Normal restrooms, the Gemara states, are overrun by forces of impurity, whereas the Persian restrooms are not, since the bodily waste does not remain there. Some Poskim compared modern-day bathrooms to the Persian restrooms discussed by the Gemara, since the waste products are immediately flushed away, as opposed to ancient latrines, where the waste remained in an opening in the ground. Hacham Ovadia Yosef, however, disagreed with this leniency, and maintained that modern-day restrooms cannot be compared to the Persian restrooms described by the Gemara. Those facilities were constructed in such a way that the bodily waste fell straight into the piping and immediately left the area, whereas in our restrooms, the waste remains for a few moments in the toilet before being flushed away. Therefore, our restrooms have the Halachic status of a latrine. As such, Hacham Ovadia ruled that one should not wash Netilat Yadayim in a bathroom, even if he walks outside to recite the Beracha. This is allowed only if one has no other option, such as if he stays in a hotel, and the only sink available is in the restroom. Since the hotel guest has no other sink available, he may wash in the bathroom and then recite the Beracha outside the restroom. If the toilet is in its own room, and there is a different room with a sink and shower, then one may wash Netilat Yaadayim in that washing room. Nevertheless, he should recite the Beracha outside that room, since the room is used for showering and dressing. It is preferable, however, to wash Netilat Yadayim somewhere else, such as in the kitchen sink, or a sink situated outside the restroom, in the hallway. Those who are stringent in this regard are worthy of blessing. Summary: One should not wash Netilat Yadayim in a restroom, unless he has no other option, such as in a hotel room, in which case he may wash in the restroom and then go outside the restroom to recite the Beracha. If one has a separate room for bathing, without a toilet, he may wash Netilat Yadayim in that room and then leave the room to recite the Beracha. Preferably, however, he should wash Netilat Yadayim somewhere else, such as in the kitchen.
“What if we fell out with the Brits? What if the agency and the Brits started spying on each other again?” — David McCloskeyWhat if the Americans and the British started spying on each other again? That's the premise of London Station, David McCloskey's fifth novel, out today. It isn't as far-fetched as it sounds. Before the Second World War those perfidious Brits did spy on America, breaking American ciphers and running influence campaigns in New York to drag the United States into the war.McCloskey spent eight years as a CIA analyst working on Syria, then a spell at McKinsey, before writing a series of successful spy novels and co-hosting the popular The Rest Is Classified podcast. The Dallas-based author has also, he admits, become an Anglophile — which hasn't stopped him giving MI6 what the Brits would call a “good kicking” in London Station.His returning heroine is Artemis Aphrodite Procter, so named by a father obsessed with Greek mythology and raised on a Florida alligator farm. Described by another of McCloskey's characters as a competent extremist, she is short, dark, hard-drinking and equally mirthful and menacing. Probably not the type of Yank best suited to a pseudo-diplomatic posting in the capital of the former empire. Although I'm guessing there are many British fellows, both inside and outside MI6, not averse to spying on Ms Artemis Aphrodite Procter.Further Reading:• London Station by David McCloskey (W. W. Norton, September 29, 2026) — his fifth novel, after Damascus Station, Moscow X, The Seventh Floor and The Persian.• The Rest Is Classified — the espionage podcast McCloskey co-hosts with the BBC's Gordon Corera, where he and Gordon Corera have also discussed Patrick Radden Keefe's London Falling.• London Falling by Patrick Radden Keefe, a recent guest on this show — the dark-money London that runs in parallel with McCloskey's subterranean city of espionage.• Earlier this year on Keen On: Daniel Silva on Gabriel Allon — the other American spy novelist with a thing for the Brits. Five Takeaways • What If We Fell Out With the Brits? McCloskey never expected to set a novel in Britain, for a technical reason: the CIA–MI6 relationship is so institutionalized that it is hard to get the stakes right, and a thriller needs life or death. Then the question arrived — what if we fell out? What if the two services started spying on each other again? That is not fantasy, and the history is the reverse of what most people assume: before the Second World War the British spied on the Americans, broke their ciphers and ran influence campaigns in New York designed to pull the United States into the war. The novel imagines a new administration installing a brash CIA director skeptical of the cousins across the Atlantic, agents on both sides beginning to die, and a thriller that turns into a mole hunt. He is rude about MI6 throughout, which his British friends appear to enjoy — his theory being that Brits are self-deprecating enough to relish being picked on.• Classified Journalism. He joined the CIA in 2006 as an undergraduate intern and left in 2014, working almost the whole time on Syria. His description of the job is the best short account of intelligence analysis you will hear: it is classified journalism. You have a question your consumer needs answered — and when your consumer is the president and the question is how long Assad can hold on, the sourcing is satellite imagery, stolen documents, intercepted calls and texts, all of it fragmentary and some of it more credible than the rest. You stitch together the what, the why and the so what, and you write it up clean and apolitical so someone can decide something. Everything he publishes now, from a novel to a résumé, still goes to the agency's publication review board — though he argues the genuinely sensitive material would make for bad fiction anyway. Afterwards came McKinsey, where the work was pricing concrete pipe and clearing a rail bottleneck through Chicago, and where he was, as far as he knows, the only McCloskey.• Artemis Aphrodite Procter. The character began with a real colleague — short, dark curly hair, not physically imposing but with a genuine physicality, and possessed of what he calls a mix of mirth and menace: someone you can drink and gamble with who will terrify you two days later. Then, as good characters do, she started speaking for herself. Her biography is a small comic masterpiece: named by a father obsessed with Greek mythology, raised outside Kissimmee in central Florida on the family business, the nation's third largest alligator-themed amusement park, called Gatorville; university in Ohio; a first husband who didn't work out; an application to the agency made more or less on a whim. Not upper class, not really middle class, and it shows in how she dresses, eats and speaks to people — which is exactly why putting her in London was irresistible. One character calls her a competent extremist. The running question across the books, he says, is what it means to be loyal to a place that is not loyal to you.• Can a Man Write Her? AK put the objection directly: some literary thought police would say a male former CIA officer has no business inventing a female one. Two answers. First, the same logic throws out Anna Karenina, and he would rather part company than follow it. Second, and more interestingly, he thinks the objection misunderstands what novelists do: you are not inhabiting a character's skin, you are hearing a voice and putting it on the page. His analogy is a reporter interviewing WNBA players — not sharing their background means more work, more research, more time with the subject, not a prohibition. On whether women make different spies he declines the generalization, while noting a real asymmetry: his analytical teams at the agency were at least half women, often majority, while the case officer cadre and the upper rungs of the Directorate of Operations remain heavily male. Which leaves the question he finds genuinely interesting about Procter — how much of her was always there, and how much the organization made.• No Smiley Without Philby. On traitors, he separates the fiction from the trade. In literature they are everything, and Philby above all — not only because he turned an institution inside out but because his betrayal said something deep about the British class system that still resonates. Hence the line of the hour: you probably don't have George Smiley without Kim Philby, le Carré having essentially novelized the wound. (AK's reversal: perhaps you don't have Philby, in the public mind, without Smiley.) Inside the actual bureaucracies, though, nobody is wrestling with those ghosts day to day. And on Britain's place in all this, he refuses AK's harsher framing — a subtext to a subtext — while conceding the structural reality: the agency is much larger and much richer, and when it wants to do somet...
NHK WORLD RADIO JAPAN - Persian News at 15:30 (JST), September 29
study the present tense conjugation of the verb 'daashtan'.
What's it really like to teach English in China? George takes us from the historic city of Persian traders to the “Noodle Capital,” sharing hidden gems, unforgettable encounters with monks and yak tea, and what it's like teaching students of all ages in large Chinese classrooms.We also get into the realities—and surprises—of teaching in China, including classroom music choices, George's band Mara Nagra, navigating the job search, and one very important rule: don't say the “3 Ts”!Plus, George shares practical tips for finding teaching jobs in China and reveals where he might head next. If you're thinking about teaching abroad, this episode is packed with stories, advice, and inspiration to help you take the next step.Be sure to check out Mara Nagra on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7eFnS3JKzKk53EzgG4z8Nm?si=oiOzfR9hS4uT1PZCQhfv9Q
Have you ever felt completely forgotten, as though life has scattered your hopes, leaving you wondering if the Lord's promises still apply to you? In Isaiah 36–49, right after the heartbreaking collapse and scattering of ancient Israel, the Lord refuses to say "I told you so". Instead, He opens His mouth with the most merciful command in scripture: "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people". Summary: In this transformative episode, we journey through the central turning point of the Book of Isaiah. We bridge the historical prose of King Hezekiah's miraculous deliverance with the soaring poetry of redemption, discovering how the God who measures the universe in the hollow of His hand is the very same Savior who carries us from the womb to our old age. The Prose Interlude: We analyze Isaiah 36–39, following Hezekiah as he lays Rabshakeh's terrifying letters before the Lord in the temple, experiences the sudden destruction of 185,000 Assyrian troops without firing an arrow, and pens his deeply raw psalm after having his life extended by 15 years. The High Note of Comfort: In Isaiah 40, we explore the dramatic tonal shift where justice yields to tender mercy ("Comfort ye"). We examine the voice crying in the wilderness to build straight desert highways, and discover how waiting upon the Lord enables the weary to mount up with wings as eagles. The Incomparable God vs. Carry-On Idols: In Isaiah 44–46, we unpack Isaiah's razor-sharp satire against homemade gods carved from ordinary firewood. We contrast lifeless idols that must be carried by tired beasts with the living God who promises: "Even to your old age... will I carry you". Cyrus the Anointed Deliverer: We study the astounding prophecy in Isaiah 45, exploring how the Lord called a Persian king by name over a century in advance, using an outsider as a messianic type to break iron bars and free His covenant people. The Original Book of Mormon Chapters: We dive into Isaiah 48–49 (quoted by Nephi in 1 Nephi 20–21), analyzing why Nephi chose these specific texts to persuade us to believe in our Redeemer and find hope in our own "furnace of affliction". Graven on His Palms: We conclude with the breathtaking imagery of Isaiah 49, where a nursing mother's devotion pales in comparison to the Savior's love. We see how Christ's retained wounds testify that pain is not evidence of abandonment, and witness the joyous, overcrowded reunion of gathered Israel where empty homes overflow with children. Call-to-Action: In Isaiah 49:16, the Savior reassures us: "Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me". When have you felt the Lord remember and carry you through a season where you felt entirely forgotten? Share your stories and favorite verses in the comments below! To keep your spiritual foundation steady and "Unshaken," please like, subscribe, and share this video! Chapter Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 4:42 The Assyrian Invasion & the Scattering of Israel 21:03 Facing the Doors of Death 29:20 Having a Will to Offer 43:55 Comfort Ye My People 1:06:58 Highway Construction 1:18:12 Care for the Mothers 1:23:13 Trying to Describe God 1:31:39 The Foolishness of False Gods 1:41:20 A Message of Encouragement 1:58:58 The Gift of Prophecy 2:05:29 The Promised Messiah 2:21:07 The Promise of Redemption 2:38:38 True Identity or False Gods 2:53:33 Raising Up a Deliverer 3:11:59 Idol Gods or the God of Israel 3:18:38 The Fall of Babylon 3:32:33 Chosen & Purified 3:48:30 Called to Gather 4:00:08 Not Forsaken nor Forgotten 4:13:47 Who Hath Begotten Me These? 4:27:33 Carried on the Shoulders of Kings 4:36:57 Conclusion
All week, host Kelly McEvers surfaces some of her favorite episodes from the archive. Here's today's story: One of the many objects that went down with the ship during the sinking of the Titanic was a beautiful, jewel-encrusted edition of a poetry book called the “Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam.” The Rubaiyat was probably the most famous work of poetry in the English-speaking world at that time…which was somewhat unusual, as the book was written by a Persian mathematician 800 years before.For more information about Omar Khayyam and the Rubaiyat, check out the books “Persian Presence in Victorian Poetry” by Taher-Kermani Reza, “The Wine of Wisdom: The Life, Poetry and Philosophy of Omar Khayyam” by Mehdi Aminrazavi, and the BBC documentary “The Genius of Omar Khayyam.” PLUS: Do you have a favorite episode we should bring back to the top of the feed? Tell us what it was and why you picked it. Give us a call at 315-992-7902 and leave a message telling us your name and story. Our mailbox will cut you off after three minutes so please call in if you get disconnected. Or you can record a voice memo and email it to us at hello@atlasobscura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What if the CIA and MI6 began spying on each other? This is the question that David McCloskey, the former CIA analyst and co-host of the Rest is Classified, discusses on this episode with Carl Miller. Together, they examine what would happen if the ‘special relationship' between the Agency and its British counterpart were to be purposefully disrupted. From a potential technological revolution upending intelligence tradecraft to navigating a new environment where old friends become adversaries, McCloskey and Miller discuss the scenarios that inspired the former's latest thriller, London Station. David McCloskey is the Sunday Times-bestselling author of The Persian, The Seventh Floor, Moscow X, and Damascus Station. He is co-host of the podcast The Rest is Classified. David is a former CIA analyst and former consultant at McKinsey & Company. Carl Miller is a Senior Fellow at Demos and founder of the Centre for the Analysis of Social Media (CASM). He is the co-writer and host of the investigative podcast Kill List and is the author of The Death of the Gods: the New Global Power Grab. If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events ... Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The first chapter of Esther impresses many readers as simple background information for the following story. Taking a hint from the Jewish Targums (Aramaic translations of the OT), Ron Lindo found that there are many allusions to 1 Kings 1-10, suggesting parallels between the Persian king, Ahasuerus (Xerxes), and Israel's King Solomon. Dr. Lindo is Assistant Professor of Christian Ministry at East Texas Baptist University. His publications include Literary Allusions in Esther: A Study on the Convergence of Intertexts and Narrative. He is presently working on commentaries on Jeremiah and Esther. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4btDp9I M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4xnLrcN
Our first story of the season is the book's oldest and its most iconic. It was written by priests of Persian times who crossed the Jordan River on their way back home from captivity Join our tribe on Patreon!To give Gil a one-time donationThe podcast is written, edited and produced by Gil Kidron
In this episode of Podgap, we explore one of Iran's most beloved accompaniments: Shirazi salad.Hanieh and Mohsen guide you through the basics in a clear, practical way, making Persian language learning tasty and approachable.From ingredients to preparation steps and flavor tips, follow along with simple language and actionable guidance.You'll also find practical exercises and a quick review of key verbs to boost your Persian skills. Looking for the transcription, glossary, and worksheet? You can find them on our Patreon page: patreon.com/podgapIf Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We'd also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at podgapp@gmail.com
Elnaaz Norouzi speaks with Nerdtropolis Mayor Sean Tajipour for a full interview about THE FIX, portraying Zahra and why the action thriller felt deeply personal to her. Norouzi explains how the film's connection to Iran, the country where she was born, drew her to the story and why she wants audiences around the world to learn more about Iranian experiences. She also teases Zahra's surprising involvement in the dangerous rescue mission and reveals how the character's determination reflects her own refusal to give up.Norouzi also opens up about working with Zachary Levi and seeing him transform into a serious action star alongside Liam Neeson, Quincy Isaiah and the movie's ensemble cast. She shares how Levi kept the atmosphere fun between intense scenes and recalls introducing her co-stars to Persian culture through chai, koobideh and ghormeh sabzi. Norouzi also discusses her love of thrillers, explains why unpredictable stories represent filmmaking at its best and reveals which role she would take during a real rescue mission.
Empires are easy to spot at the end and maddeningly hard to identify at the start. We pick up the Delian League story with one stubborn question: when Aristides helps organize the alliance in 478 BC, is he building a fair system of collective security, or laying track for the Athenian Empire without admitting it? The answer depends on resisting hindsight and taking the fear of a renewed Persian threat seriously. We walk through what gets set up on Delos and what those choices signal. A neutral religious center instead of Athens. A synod where every member theoretically gets an equal vote. A permanent oath meant to reassure newly freed Greek cities along the Anatolian coast. Then the tension underneath it all: Athens is hegemon from day one, providing commanders, overseeing contributions, and fielding the biggest navy in the Aegean. Aristides' reputation for fairness matters, but so do the advantages Athens gains from leadership. From there, we track how smart, reasonable policies can snowball. When allies pay money instead of supplying ships and crews, Athens maintains the fleet that everyone depends on. When membership is permanent, leaving becomes “breaking the oath,” and coercion becomes easier to justify. Those pressures show up in the hard tests of Naxos and Thassos, and in the unmistakable symbolism of moving the treasury from Delos to Athens. If you care about ancient Greece, the Persian Wars, Athenian hegemony, and how alliances turn into empires, this one is for you. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend who loves history, and leave a review with your take: was Aristides an architect, an accidental founder, or something in between?Support the show
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learn how to use possesive and plural forms
Sparta's biggest breakthrough after Sicily isn't a new tactic or a better admiral. It's cash, and Persia is willing to pay. The problem is that Persian money comes with Persian priorities, and those priorities don't include a powerful Spartan navy controlling the Aegean.I trace how the Ionian War heats up in 412–411 BC, from the fighting around Miletus to the scramble for control of Chios and the shock of Rhodes breaking away from the Athenian Empire. We watch Athens absorb losses, regroup from Samos, and keep fleets at sea even while allies revolt. On the other side, Spartan commanders hesitate to risk a decisive naval battle, their crews grow restless, and Persian satrap Tissaphernes repeatedly reshapes the financial deal that's supposed to keep the Peloponnesian fleet afloat.At the center is Alcibiades, making one of the most consequential pivots of the Peloponnesian War: he slips from Sparta into Persian protection and becomes an advisor to Tissaphernes. His guidance is cold-blooded and strategic: pay Sparta irregularly, prevent either Greek power from winning outright, and let Athens and Sparta grind each other down while Persia rebuilds influence in Ionia. That logic collides with Spartan “liberation” rhetoric, shows up in messy treaty negotiations, and points straight toward the next crisis, the fracture of Athenian politics and the looming oligarchic revolution.If you're following ancient Greece history, Thucydides, Aegean naval warfare, or the high-stakes diplomacy that decides empires, this chapter is packed with turning points. Subscribe, share the episode with a fellow history fan, and leave a review so more listeners can find the series. Support the show
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What makes a day of the week your favorite? Swimming with Dad? Shabbat dinner? Chinese class? Fútbol with cousins? Grandma Day? What about trash day? In Our Favorite Day of the Week, ordinary routines become extraordinary windows into friendship, family, culture, and the joyful ways children see the world.About This EpisodeIn Episode 208 of the Adventures in Learning podcast, Dr. Diane welcomes author Ashley Franklin and illustrator Rahele Jomepour Bell for their very first conversation together. We celebrate their new picture book, Our Favorite Day of the Week, a warm and joyful follow-up to Our Favorite Day of the Year.Musa and his friends each have a favorite day—not because of a generic calendar rhyme, but because that day holds something meaningful: a family tradition, a beloved person, a community ritual, or a moment that makes a child feel fully seen. As the friends share their stories, young readers are invited to recognize that our routines may be different, but connection, belonging, and joy are things we all understand.Ashley and Rahele take us behind the scenes of their creative process, talk about the importance of honoring children's complex identities, and reflect on the power of picture books to offer both windows into other lives and mirrors in which children can recognize themselves. Our Favorite Day of the Week will be released on September 29, 2026. In This EpisodeWhy Our Favorite Day of the Week belongs on classroom, library, and family bookshelves.How seven children's favorite days become a celebration of family routines, culture, friendship, and community.The creative collaboration behind a picture book, especially when the author and illustrator have not met during the process.How Ashley Franklin approaches layered, authentic child characters and complex identities.How Rahele Jomepour Bell's Persian and Iranian cultural influences, architectural memories, and love of detail shape her visual storytelling.Classroom possibilities: favorite-day graphs, personal narrative writing, family interviews, calendar exploration, and empathy-building community conversations.Sources of hope: children, creativity, and the stories young readers are eager to discover.Chapters00:00 Welcome: A picture book for every classroom bookshelf01:13 Ashley Franklin and Rahele Jomepour Bell meet for the first time01:41 Creating a sequel and finding the story's voice02:41 Seven favorite days, seven joyful perspectives05:10 Classroom connections: identity, graphing, stories, and empathy06:04 Cultural representation and the details that make stories feel true08:47 Windows, mirrors, and everyday joy in picture books10:10 Rahele's artistic inspiration: Persian culture, architecture, and memory12:00 Ashley on complex identities and writing children who feel seen15:31 Finding the path to children's books20:06 What's next: Our Favorite Time of Day and new projects21:12 What is currently bringing Ashley and Rahele hope?Book & Creator LinksFeatured Book: Our Favorite Day of the Week by Ashley Franklin, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour BellMeet the Creators: Ashley Franklin and Rahele Jomepour BellMore Books MentionedNot Quite Snow White by Ashley Franklin, illustrated by Ebony GlennOur Favorite Day of the Yearby A. E. Ali, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour BellLast Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian RobinsonWe All Play by Julie FlettYou Matter by Christian RobinsonClassroom ConnectionsAfter reading Our Favorite Day of the Week invite children to explore the stories and people behind their own favorite days.Favorite-day graph: Ask students to choose their favorite day of the week, graph the results, and notice similarities and differences in the class community.Personal narrative writing: Invite each child to complete the prompt, “My favorite day is _ because _.”Family and community interviews: Encourage children to ask a family member or trusted adult about their favorite day and the tradition, person, food, activity, or memory that makes it special.Calendar and culture study: Explore how calendars, weekly rhythms, faith traditions, family schedules, and community routines can shape our experiences of time.Windows and mirrors discussion: Ask, “Which part of this story felt like a mirror for you? Which part gave you a window into someone else's life?”Support the showShare this episodeIf this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague.Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friendStay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.
Mahsa Vahdat is an internationally acclaimed Iranian singer and composer. She is an iconic figure in the struggle of Iranian women for artistic freedom in the complex socio-political landscape after the Islamic Revolution. Deeply rooted in the rich tradition of Persian classical music, her work blends classical and regional Iranian music, poetic lyricism, and contemporary idioms. Now based in the San Francisco Bay Area, she has engaged in musical partnerships that span a wide range of genres and cultures, including projects with Kronos Quartet, Tord Gustavsen, Mighty Sam McClain, Amsterdam Sinfonietta, and Pacific Symphony. In the interview we talk about her early musical influences in Iran, her defiance of government restrictions on female singers, and her intercultural musical collaborations.Music: My Home by Mahsa Vahdat, performed by Mahsa Vahdat and Ellen Bødtker (Kirkelig Kulturverksted); Braids of Innocence by Mahsa Vahdat and Atabak Elyasi, performed by Mahsa Vahdat and SKRUK (Kirkelig Kulturverksted); The Vow composed and performed by Mahsa Vahdat (Kirkelig Kulturverksted); The Moon-Faced of Our Beloved by Mahsa Vahdat and Marjan Vahdat (Marjan & Mahsa Vahdat live at House of Music Hungary)Follow Mahsa on Instagram and Facebook.mahsavahdat.netFollow us on Instagram and Facebook.otherminds.orgContact us at otherminds@otherminds.org.The Other Minds Podcast is hosted and edited by Joseph Bohigian. Outro music is “Kings: Atahualpa” by Brian Baumbusch (Other Minds Records).
This group Bible study explores the predictive prophecy in Daniel 11, detailing the rise and fall of Persian and Greek kingdoms to demonstrate God's sovereign control over history. By correlating the biblical text with historical events, such as the conquests of Alexander the Great and the subsequent division of his empire, the teaching affirms the reliability of Scripture and the identity of God as the eternal Lord who knows the end from the beginning. The discussion emphasizes that these prophetic passages serve as a survival manual for believers, providing assurance and strength amidst the chaos of worldly conflicts and political instability. The tone is instructional and comforting, encouraging the audience to trust in God's ultimate authority and to maintain their faith by looking upward to His promises rather than being overwhelmed by current events.
This group Bible study explores the predictive prophecy in Daniel 11, detailing the rise and fall of Persian and Greek kingdoms to demonstrate God's sovereign control over history. By correlating the biblical text with historical events, such as the conquests of Alexander the Great and the subsequent division of his empire, the teaching affirms the reliability of Scripture and the identity of God as the eternal Lord who knows the end from the beginning. The discussion emphasizes that these prophetic passages serve as a survival manual for believers, providing assurance and strength amidst the chaos of worldly conflicts and political instability. The tone is instructional and comforting, encouraging the audience to trust in God's ultimate authority and to maintain their faith by looking upward to His promises rather than being overwhelmed by current events.
در این قسمت کوتاه نگاهی داریم به سنگاپور، جایی که گردانندگان اتحادیه بازیکن ها دارن وضعیت رو بررسی می کنن. قسمت کوتاهه ولی مکالمه ای داره که به نظرم صدها بار می شه شنید و بهش فکر کرد. اونجایی که می گه «اینبار می بازیم.. ولی..» متاسفانه براوزر شما از اچ تی ام ال ۵ … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۶ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۵۰ – کوری دکترو"
و حالا که ماجراها بالا گرفته، چیزهایی هم هست که باید حل بشه. از جمله مالا که آقای بانرجی اونو دزدیده و در قبال آزادیش ۳۰۰هزار رون استون خواسته. ارتش مالا دارن کار می کنن تا پول رو جمع کنن ولی آیا کسی مثل بانرجی روی قولش می مونه؟ آیا اسکرو ها کارا هستن؟ آیا … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۶۰ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۵۴ – کوری دکترو"
داستان داره جالب می شه! حالا وقتشه اقتصاد دادن اول بازی، با اقتصاد دان اول اتحادیه صحبت کنه و بفهمیم چی می خوایم که تا اینجا پیش اومدیم. کانر به مرکز بازی گردان ها برگشته تا گوشی رو بگیره و با آشوک حرف بزنه. متاسفانه براوزر شما از اچ تی ام ال ۵ پشتیبانی نمی … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۹ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۵۳ – کوری دکترو"
و حالا وقتشه که وی-دونگ هنرنمایی کنه. حالا وقتشه که شرکت کوکاکولا، اقتصاد دانشون، مدیریت امنیتشون و بقیه آدم هاشون بفهمن چرا طلاهای بازی به این وضع افتادن و چاره اش چیه! متاسفانه براوزر شما از اچ تی ام ال ۵ پشتیبانی نمی کند. یا خیلی باحال است یا خیلی عجیب! دانلود نسخه ام پی … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۸ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۵۲ – کوری دکترو"
اعضای اتحادیه طلافارمرهای بازی های کامپیوتری عملیاتشون رو زودتر از موعد شروع کردن چون اعتصاب ها در چین شروع شده بود و دیگه وقت صبر کردن نبود. تیم مالا در هند کافه شون رو از آقای بانرجی پس گرفتن و توش از طلا فارمرها دفاع می کنن ولی خود مالا در آخرین باری که دیدیمش … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۷ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۵۱ – کوری دکترو"
در قسمت قبلی دیدیم که پس از حمله پلیس به خونه امن جی و کشته شدن ۴۲ وبلی به همراه تانک، تصمیم به شروع جنگ شد.. جنگ که نه، اعتصاب! و بعد از چین سری کوتاه می زنیم به هند. متاسفانه براوزر شما از اچ تی ام ال ۵ پشتیبانی نمی کند. یا خیلی باحال … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۰ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۴۴ – کوری دکترو"
این قسمت خیلی کوتاهه، در این حد که اگر خلاصه اش رو بگم عملا همه اش رو گفته ام. با من باشیم تا ببینیم پاسخ اتحادیه ای ها به حمله پلیس چین به یکی از خانه های امن جیاندی و کشته شدن ۴۲ نفر از بچه های وبلی و تانک چیه. متاسفانه براوزر شما از … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۴۹ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۴۳ – کوری دکترو"
حالا که وبلی ها عملیات استخراج طلا رو در کنترل نسبی خودشون دارن و آشوک اقتصاد دان داره برنامه پیچیده اقتصادی اش رو پیاده می کنه، معلومه که بازی گردانها هم بیکار ننشستن و با همه قوا دارن سعی می کنن بازی رو جوری بچرخونن که خودشون دوست دارن. بیان بریم سراغ دفتر مرکزی بازیگردانهای … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۵ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۴۹ – کوری دکترو"
و حالا که کمی از وضعیت بازیها و دنیای فیزیکی مطلع شدیم، وقتشه کمی عمیق تر اقتصاد بفهمیم. کشف کنیم که چرا این کتاب ارزشمنده و چرا مدت ها قبل از درست شدن انواع میم کوین، نه فقط پیش بینی که حتی تشریح کرده بود که چی می شه. با من باشین که یکی از … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۴ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۴۸ – کوری دکترو"
حالا که وضعیت چین رو دیدیم، بیاین سری به هند بزنیم. مالا و تیمش تونستن گیمنت خانه دیبندو رو پس بگیرن تا توش وارد بازی ها بشن و از کارگرانی که دارن برای نقشه اشوک طلاهای بازی رو کنترل می کنن در مقابل مهاجمین، دفاع کنن. ولی مطمئن بودن که آقای بانرجی با بدمعاشهاش برمیگرده … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۳ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۴۷ – کوری دکترو"
حالا پلیس چین حمله کرده و تعدادی از بچه های طرفدار اتحادیه بازیکن ها رو توی خونه ای که جیاندی ازش پادکستش رو پخش می کرد دستگیر کرده و کشته. اما جیاندی موفق شد فرار کنه، همینطور وی-دونگ ولی دیدیم که تانک (لو) کشته شد. اما بقیه در چه وضعی هستن؟ متئو ظاهرا تونسته فرار … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۲ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۴۶ – کوری دکترو"
و حالا که اعتصابهای سراسری دنیاها شروع شده، لازمه همه بهش بپیوندن. اعتصابی که همه اون واحد بخشی ازش نباشن، اعتصاب موفقی نخواهد بود. و کسی که بیشترین تاثیر رو روی اکثریت جامعه چین داره، جیاندی است. ولی آیا مرگ دوستش تانک براش انرژی کافی برای متحد کردن دخترهای کارخانه گذاشته؟ متاسفانه براوزر شما از … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۵۱ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۴۵ – کوری دکترو"
این قسمت هم شاید برای کسانی که تروماهایی از ایران دارن مناسب نباشه. بخش های خشنی داره از درگیری ها. وبلی ها هر روز ۸ ساعت کار می کنن و بقیه اش رو در خانه های امن جی استراحت می کنن. عملیات توی بازی داره پیش می ره و لو و جی عاشق هم هستن … ادامه خواندن "رادیوجادی ۲۴۸ – کتاب برای پیروزی – قسمت ۴۲ – کوری دکترو"
As Donald Trump threatens to "blow Iran to bits", what is life really like inside Iran? Tehran itself is not a barren outpost, but a sprawling, dynamic, and modern metropolis—a city where centuries-old Persian history meets contemporary urban life, home to bustling university campuses, cutting-edge art galleries, public parks, and millions of ordinary families seeking everyday peace. Visit Matt and Julia for more videos on Iran and beyond. https://www.youtube.com/@MattandJulia Independent media has never been more important. Please support this channel by subscribing here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g?sub_confirmation=1 Join this channel with a membership for exclusive early access and bonus content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g/join Five Minute News is a MeidasTouch Podcast, covering politics, inequality, health and climate - delivering independent, unbiased and essential news for the US and across the world. Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/fiveminutenews.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram http://instagram.com/fiveminnews Support us on Patreon http://www.patreon.com/fiveminutenews Support Anthony on Substack https://theanthonydavis.substack.com You can subscribe to Five Minute News with your preferred podcast app, ask your smart speaker, or enable Five Minute News as your Amazon Alexa Flash Briefing skill. CONTENT DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed on this channel are those of the guests and authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The MeidasTouch Network, Anthony Davis or Five Minute News LLC. Any content provided by our hosts, guests or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything, in line with the First Amendment right to free and protected speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Podgap, join Bahrām and Behnoush as they go to the supermarket to buy some things for their home.You'll first listen to their conversation slowly, learn the most important new words and phrases, and then listen to the dialogue again at a faster pace. Finally, we'll test your understanding with a few questions about the conversation.In this episode, you'll learn useful everyday Persian words and expressions such as:• یخچال — fridge• خالی — empty• جدی میگی؟ — Are you serious?• یه کم کار دارم — I have a few things to do• چی لازم داریم؟ — What do we need?• یادم رفت — I forgot• خرید کردن — to buy• برگشتن — to returnYou'll also learn the Persian words for common supermarket items such as:milk, eggs, canned tuna, tomato paste, yogurt, cheese, and doogh.Looking for the transcription, glossary, and worksheet? You can find them on our Patreon page: patreon.com/podgapIf Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We'd also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at podgapp@gmail.com
In the epic conclusion to the Greco-Persian Wars series, the fate of mainland Greece is finally decided. Following the naval clash at Salamis, the Persian general Mardonius and the Hellene alliance led by the Spartan regent Pausanias face off in the ultimate land showdown at the Battle of Plataea. After weeks of tactical stalemates, fierce cavalry skirmishes along the Asopus River, and a chaotic night maneuver that fractured the Hellene lines, the two massive armies finally clash. The brutal close-quarters hoplite engagements ultimately lead to the fall of Mardonius and a catastrophic, decisive defeat for the Achaemenid land forces.Meanwhile, across the Aegean, the Hellene fleet strikes a simultaneous blow at the Battle of Mycale, igniting a second Ionian revolt and destroying the remnants of the Persian naval threat on the beaches of Asia Minor. The campaign then pushes north to the grueling Siege of Sestos, culminating in the symbolic dismantling of the cables from Xerxes's grand bridge across the Hellespont, exactly where Herodotus chose to end his Histories. Ultimately, the aftermath of the conflict shifts the balance of power, leading to the rise of the Delian League and the debated Peace of Callias—a treaty that brought an end to a half-century of war while inadvertently setting the stage for the dawn of the Athenian Empire.Contents:0:00 Marching to the Final Showdown7:54 First Blood: The Fall of Masistius15:28 Drawing the Battle Lines at Plataea27:11 Choking the Alliance: The Supply Pass Massacre41:32 Fouling the Spring: A Fight for Survival46:29 Mutiny and a Fractured Night Retreat53:07 Mardonius Takes the Bait: The Clash Begins1:03:45 The Decisive Blow: The Death of Mardonius1:11:59 A Splendid Victory and the Spoils of Gold1:21:22 Igniting the Rebellion: The Battle of Mycale1:33:41 Dismantling Xerxes's Dream and the War's End1:41:11 Thank You and PatronsSpecial thanks to Farya Faraji for the following musical compositions featured throughout the program: "Rise of Arsaces""March of Achaemenes""Apranik's Charge""Riders of Ariana""Spantodhata's Warning""Mater""To Phrygia""Olympos""In Sappho's Mind""Achaemenes""Ahriman's Wrath""In Pythagoras' Mind""Fratres""Aima"Check out more of his work that spans across many countries, cultures and time periods: https://www.youtube.com/@faryafaraji.and.worldmusiciansSupport the show
Zineb Riboua is a research fellow at the Hudson Institute's Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East and founder of its China in MENA Project. She joins Zoe Sankey to discuss Iran, the Houthis, Israel, Turkey, Islamism, China's influence in the Middle East, and the growing ideological divide between the West and its opponents. Why is Iran escalating from a position of weakness? What do the Houthis actually want? And how does the ideology of third-worldism connect Islamists with parts of the Western left? Riboua explains Iran's strategy of “buying time”, the impact of sanctions and the naval blockade, China's role as a source of support for Tehran, and the Houthis' search for new patrons—including their growing interest in al-Shabaab. She also discusses Morocco-Israel normalisation, the changing balance of power in the Middle East, Turkey and Erdoğan's ambitions, and the prospects for Syria-Israel normalisation. The conversation then turns to Europe and the West: why some young North African men become radicalised after migrating to Europe, the spread of Islamist and anti-Western ideas, and the rise of third-worldism as a political framework. Finally, Riboua discusses the rise of AI doomerism, China's role in the debate, the politics of degrowth and environmentalism, declining fertility in the Middle East, and what demographic change means for the future of the region and the West. Zineb Riboua: https://zinebriboua.com Read Quillette: https://quillette.com 00:00 Introduction to Zineb Riboua and the geopolitical context 01:57 Iran's strategy of buying time and recent escalation 03:50 Sanctions and economic pressure on Iran 05:50 Yemen, the Houthis and regional support 09:07 What do the Houthis actually want? 11:57 The Houthis' religious and ideological motivations 15:00 Arab, Persian and Bedouin identities 17:56 Zineb Riboua on Morocco, Jewish heritage and Israel 22:02 Islamist radicalisation and antisemitism in Europe 26:11 Foreign influence and the rise of third-worldism 28:59 What is third-worldism? 34:08 Israel's changing geopolitical role 36:06 AI doomerism, China and the “psyop” theory 39:10 AI panic, regulation and geopolitics 43:00 Degrowth, environmentalism and anti-human ideology 45:01 What young people in the Middle East want 47:04 Falling fertility and the region's demographic problem 48:59 Turkey, Erdoğan and the struggle for influence 52:08 Syria-Israel normalisation and Turkey's role 54:54 American politics and the future of US support for Israel 58:10 Why Israel matters to American technology and power 59:58 Closing remarks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Chad and Daniel walk through one of the most detailed prophetic chapters in Scripture, tracing the rise and fall of Persian, Greek, Egyptian, Syrian, and Roman power. They focus especially on Antiochus IV Epiphanes, whose actions set the stage for the abomination of desolation and the Maccabean revolt. Have a listen. More from 1517: · Support the work at 1517 · 1517 on Youtube · 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts · 1517 Events Schedule · 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education New Books from 1517 Publishing: · The Turk at the Door by Adam Francisco · Luther and the Lion: A Narnian Catechism by Samuel Schuldheisz · By Water and the Word by Brian Thomas · Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith More from the hosts: · Daniel Emery Price · Chad Bird Follow 1517: Instagram X/Twitter Facebook
In a world where it's easy to get caught up in negativity and fear, 1 Peter 3 offers a powerful reminder of how to live a life that shines the light of Jesus. This episode of The Bible Explained podcast explores the concept of blessing those who hurt us: Christians are called to bless those who mistreat us, just like Jesus did on the cross. But what does it mean to bless someone? Does this mean we have to be doormats? The importance of trusting that God sees our suffering and will bless us for it. Peter encourages Christians to be patient and kind, even when faced with difficult people and to remember that God is in control. By living a life that reflects Jesus' teachings, we can be a light in a dark world and show others the hope and joy that comes from following Him. Join Jenn as she explores the practical ways to apply the principles of 1 Peter 3 in your daily life, and discover how it can transform your relationships with others and your faith. The book of Esther comes to a close in this episode, and it's a thrilling conclusion. But what's just as fascinating is the way this story has shaped the Jewish holiday of Purim, which is still celebrated today. The aftermath of Haman's defeat and the establishment of Purim as a national holiday. The significance of the word "Purim" and how it relates to the casting of lots that sealed the fate of the Jewish people. The traditions surrounding Purim. Reflections on the impact of Mordecai's influence on the Persian kingdom. The ripple effect of Mordecai and Esther's actions, which may have influenced future generations, including (possibly) the life of Nehemiah. If you want to learn more about the book of Esther and the fascinating story of Purim, tune in to this episode. Jenn shares insights and observations that will deepen your understanding of this important biblical book. Join us as we explore the themes of bravery, cunning, and the power of faith in the face of adversity. Don’t just check out one… Take a look at them all! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
//The Wire//2100Z September 16, 2026// //ROUTINE// //BLUF: OIL EXECUTIVES SOUND ALARMS REGARDING FUEL CRISIS, STATING THAT FUEL PRICES ARE LIKELY TO INCREASE SHARPLY AND IMMINENTLY. HOUTHIS SHOOT DOWN SAUDI FIGHTER AIRCRAFT. HELICOPTER CRASH REPORTED IN LOS ANGELES. DC POLICE UNION VOICES CONCERN WITH POLICE OFFICERS BEING SURVEILLED BY FLOCK SENSORS.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE----- -International Events-Europe: Fuel prices have begun to spike throughout the region, after Saudi Arabia announced that they will be halting all shipments of oil to the European continent. In Germany, the average diesel price is almost $11.00 per gallon nationwide, having increased steadily over the past few days. Other than diesel and gasoline, natural gas levels are also at the lowest level in years, with natural gas continuing to dwindle after Qatar shut down production after being targeted during the height of the war.Red Sea/HOA: Conflict between the Saudis and Houthis has continued to escalate. Overnight, the Houthis shot down a Saudi F-15 fighter aircraft over Marib. The status of the aircrew is not known.Analyst Comment: Several instances of fake or confusing videos regarding the crash have circulated social media regarding this shootdown. Due to several Persian websites using the Hijri Islamic calendar system for timestamping their articles, Google's auto-translate feature is mistranslating that date, and indicating that the video is from 2021. As a result, Saudis are claiming that the videos of the shootdown are either fake or from years ago. However, this is an error; the video is a new product released by official Houthi accounts and does appear to depict the shootdown overnight.To the north, Houthi forces also hit Yanbu with substantial drone strikes overnight, with dozens of impacts being reported at the oil terminals. Satellite based fire detection sensors indicate that the port of Yanbu remained on fire throughout the night. Proper battle damage assessment will take a few more days to materialize, but as of this morning the Houthis have continued to press the attack, and have struck Saudi facilities regularly over the past few days.Analyst Comment: Yesterday, rumors began to circulate that the Houthis have begun to lay mines in the Bab el Mandeb Strait, as a way of restricting travel through the waterway. As it stands, this is probably not true for many reasons. For one, the Houthis have historically not show interest in laying sea mines. Secondly, the Houthis have very carefully NOT instituted a blanket ban on travel through the Strait...they are only blockading Saudi ships. Everybody else is free to pass without being targeted or even contacted by radio. The Houthis are certainly still a threat to commercial shipping, and could possibly expand their blockade to include nations other than just Saudi Arabia, but there is very little chance that the Houthis have mined anything at present.Middle East: This morning Fox News leaked details of an Iranian strike on a merchant vessel in the strait of Hormuz, which was struck last week while attempting to exit the Gulf. At the time, this vessel was not any different than the dozens of other strikes that have taken place, however Fox News reports (via unnamed leakers) that U.S. personnel were onboard this vessel at the time of the Iranian strike. The report has not explicitly stated whether or not these individuals were military service members, or were U.S. citizens/contractors crewing the vessel. However, several people were wounded as a result of the Iranian targeting, and are currently being treated at an undisclosed location in the region.-HomeFront-Washington D.C - The Capitol Police Union has voiced outrage concerning the use of Flock cameras by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). The Union alleges that Internal Affairs officers were using the intelligence collection sensor network to monitor their own officers without their knowledge. The Union also alleges that there are no guardrails for the use of this technology, nor is there any transparency on how these sensors are being used by the MPD.Analyst Comment: As has been noted by nearly everyone who is not actively getting paid to promote these technologies, one aspect of tracking every human being in the country is that high ranking individuals (who might be prone to being blackmailed) are also caught in the sensor network's dragnet. As demonstrated by the DC Police Union (perhaps not in the way that they intended), nobody cares when the taxpayers are surveilled relentlessly...but the elites and most law enforcement agencies do care when they themselves are being monitored. The National Capitol Region (NCR) is a very sensitive area, and all elected officials might be a little upset to find out that every vehicle that arrives at their homes on Capitol Hill in the middle of the night...is logged by a private company that now has leverage over them, which would serve as rather powerful blackmail potential.California: Yesterday evening, a helicopter crash was reported in Los Angeles. An NBC news helicopter crashed while covering a motor vehicle accident in the neighborhood of Chatsworth. The incident was captured live on air as the helicopter crashed, and both crew members were killed during the impact. One bystander on the ground was also killed after being hit by the debris from the crashing helicopter. No word yet on what caused the crash, but early indications suggest the helicopter may have suffered from engine failure or a catastrophic loss of power, which resulted in a loss of lift.-----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: Continuing the trend, the energy crisis is worsening by the hour, with some industry professionals stating that the exponential curve of escalating problems has arrived. Yesterday Tom Kloza, the Chief Energy Advisor for Gulf Oil, stated that sharp increases in gasoline and diesel prices are expected over the next few days. Other oil executives have corroborated these sentiments as well, with several alarming statements being made over the past 24 hours. Mike Wirth, the CEO of Chevron, stated that the fuel crisis has officially arrived, and will be compounded by most mitigating efforts used to keep prices low, being expended due to the war lasting so long. China has also reversed course over the past couple of weeks and is now buying up as much crude as possible, from any source they can get it from. Most of China's "teapot" refineries (i.e. the cluster of smaller independently-owned refineries in Shandong Province) are now increasing purchases of oil, in a market that is already quite strained. This is a not-so-subtle indicator that China thinks that right now is the cheapest oil will be for a while. Yesterday, oil futures in Shanghai traded at $129 per barrel...a full $8.00 higher than the absolute peak prices observed during the height of the war months ago.Analyst: S2A1 Research: https://publish.obsidian.md/s2underground NomadNet: 5fa68c88be727a0e1a250a75e5e79269 Disclaimer: No LLMs were used in the writing of this report. //END REPORT//
We keep chasing stability — a life that stops changing, so we can finally feel safe. Mitra Manesh calls this the black chickpea: something we were sent to fetch as children that never actually existed. It's the story of everyone stuck in survival mode.In this episode, Mitra and co-host Carlota Santamaria unpack the three questions an attentionist asks instead of the three questions a survivalist asks without realizing it:— What am I truly seeing or experiencing right now?— What are my other choices beyond what my frightened mind is offering me?— If well-being is my goal, what choice could serve me best in this moment?They talk about why choice-making itself is a source of pleasure, why self-care is the opposite of selfish, and why your body — not your mind — is the most honest place to check in when something feels off.This conversation builds on the previous episode, where Mitra outlines the three survivalist questions (What is wrong? Am I safe? Do I fit in?) — worth a listen first if you haven't already.Mitra Manesh is the author of The Attentionist: New Choices for a New World and the founder of Attentionism, a philosophy of conscious choice-making rooted in the Persian wisdom tradition.
David McCloskey is a former CIA analyst, bestselling author, and co-host of top-rated The Rest Is Classified podcast.Before turning to fiction, David worked in CIA field stations across the Middle East and in the Counterterrorism Center, where he focused on Syria and Iraq.He is the author of DAMASCUS STATION, MOSCOW X, THE SEVENTH FLOOR, THE PERSIAN, and the upcoming LONDON STATION.In this episode, we get into the intelligence world, the 6-part 9/11 series on The Rest is Classified, and the inspiration behind LONDON STATION.LONDON STATION is available September 29, 2026.FOLLOW DAVIDhttps://www.davidmccloskeybooks.com/