Podcasts about protagonists

The guys sit down to discuss the addition of Tony Scholes of USL. He'll lead the new Division One league and help impliment promotion/relegation in the USL system.  Plus loads of other discussion around the sport for your consumption!

In this conversation, Steve and Carl delve into the themes and intricacies of B. Yeager's book, Negative Space. They explore the unique prose style, character voices, and the nonlinear storytelling that creates a sense of despair and madness. The discussion touches on the eldritch forces at play, gnostic influences, and the existential themes that permeate the narrative. They also reflect on character arcs, the role of technology, and the symbolism within the book, drawing comparisons to other works and ultimately sharing their final thoughts on the impact of the story.Chapters00:00Introduction to Negative Space and Its Themes02:47Character Voices and Narrative Structure05:46Exploring the Protagonist and Antagonist Dynamics08:38The Role of Magic and Eldritch Forces11:21Gnosticism and Its Influence on the Story14:18The Impact of Technology and Alienation17:17Character Tragedies and Relationships20:04The Symbolism of Objects and Themes of Despair22:51Conclusion and Final Thoughts on the Book37:24Exploring the Ambiguity of Reality38:33The Role of Children in Apocalyptic Events39:26The Bleakness of Insignificance40:15The Whimpering Ending: A Mixed Resolution42:18Timey-Wimey: The Complexity of Time in the Narrative43:49The Cosmic Horror and Its Symbolism45:46The Small Town Metaphor: Inescapable Despair46:43Character Development and Existential Themes48:46The Power of Language and Prose53:14Existential Quotes and Their Impact56:05The Nature of Existence and Its Implications57:27The Contrast of Prose Styles59:04The Unresolved Nature of Cosmic Horror01:05:03Final Thoughts and RecommendationsSend us a message (I'm not able to reply)Support the showPage Chewing Blog Page Chewing Forum Film Chewing PodcastSpeculative Speculations Podcast Support the podcast via PayPal Support the show by using our Amazon Affiliate linkJoin Riverside.fm Co-Hosts: Jarrod Varsha Chris Jose Carl D. Albert (author) Thomas J. Devens (author) Intro and Outro Music by Michael R. Fletcher (2024-Current)

If you're writing a dual protagonist story, a story with multiple plot lines or a romance, this episode is for you! After the spookiness of last week's episode, I thought we are all due for a feel-good, positive juju kinda movie. What better choice than THE PROPOSAL? Enjoy! -V. Acquire the power to write a bestselling story at storynerd.ca/courses  For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle. To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.

Hosts LeAlec Murray and Alex Lebl are reporting from Los Angeles about the first ever Dragon Ball store opening in Tokyo Station, Bungo Stray Dogs returning for season 2, the OVERLORD 10th anniversary theatrical celebration, the Animal Crossing: New Horizons update, and more! Then, LeAlec and Alex discuss the anime characters they believe are the most clever and strategic. Have a question for The Anime Effect? Ask it here. To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com. Anime Industry Reaches Record Highs in 2024 as International Revenue Far Outpaces Japan Dragon Ball Opens First Ever Store in Tokyo Station Bungo Stray Dogs WAN! Season 2 Anime Announced for 2026 Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Edition Announced Along with Free Update  OVERLORD 10th Anniversary Celebration Theatrical Event Tickets Now on Sale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Strong Female Protagonist written by Brennan Lee Mulligan and drawn by Lee Knox Ostertag (2014)

On this week's episode, Brad and Eric sit down and dream of a better world where corporate decisions, budgets, marketing and computing limitations are non-existent. A world where every Warhammer game could be made, even if the user interface is a spreadsheet. A world where the protagonist of a game could be a Drukhari that would make every renegade decision in Mass Effect looks like a paragon decision. A world where modeling an entire planet that doesn't look in the slightest as earth wouldn't blow the budget. A world where fighting games could have good battlepasses. A world where every new model and character wouldn't need to be submitted for approval by Games Workshop. In this world, which games would we like to see realized in the Warhammer Universe? Tune in to find out. (man, that was a good description)   POORHAMMER MERCH! https://orchideight.com/collections/poorhammer PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/SolelySingleton YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@thepoorhammerpodcast TWITCH: https://www.twitch.tv/poorhammer Website: https://poorhammer.libsyn.com/   TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Hello and Welcome 01:36 We are Skipping the Obvious Genres 03:28 Souls-Like... But Age of Sigmar 06:18 Dungeon Keeper... but 40K 09:57 Dynasty Warriors... but 40K 15:16 TerraGenesis... but 40K 18:18 Factorio... but Tyranids 31:14 Yakuza Like a Dragon... But 40K 36:36 From the Depths... but 40K 40:21 Trade Simulator... But 40K 45:10 Satisfactory... but Votann 47:59 Visual Novel... But 40K 51:28 Dating Sim... But 40K 56:27 Frostpunk... but 40K 58:38 Soul Calibur... but 40K 01:01:11 QOP... But 40K 01:04:19 Wolf Among Us... But 40K 01:10:31 My Summer Car... But 40K 01:12:28 Disonored... But 40K 01:14:59 Hi-Fi Rush... But 40K 01:18:13 Titan Fall 3... but... actually, just give us Titan Fall 3 01:20:17 Vampire Survivors... But 40K 01:22:53 Vania-Metroid... but 40K 01:27:17 Papers Please... But 40K 01:29:59 Where is the Pokemon game with Trazyn as a Protagonist? 01:31:55 Alright Audio Audience   Contact Information: You can interact with Solely Singleton by joining the hosts on discord and Twitter to give input to improve the show. Feel free to email more detailed questions and suggestions to the show's email address.   Your Hosts: Brad (DrRuler) & Eric (OnekuoSora) Brad's Bsky: https://bsky.app/profile/drruler.bsky.social Eric's Bsky: https://bsky.app/profile/onekuosora.bsky.social Show Email: thepoorhammerpodcast@gmail.com Merch Website: http://www.poorhammer.com/ Edited by: Menino Berilio Show Mailing Address: PO Box 70893 Rochester Hills, MI 48307   Licensed Music Used By This Program: "Night Out" by LiQWYD CC BY "Thursday & Snow (Reprise)" by Blank & Kytt CC BY "First Class" by Peyruis CC BY "Funky Souls" by Amaria CC BY

On this week's episode, Brad and Eric sit down and dream of a better world where corporate decisions, budgets, marketing and computing limitations are non-existent. A world where every Warhammer game could be made, even if the user interface is a spreadsheet. A world where the protagonist of a game could be a Drukhari that would make every renegade decision in Mass Effect looks like a paragon decision. A world where modeling an entire planet that doesn't look in the slightest as earth wouldn't blow the budget. A world where fighting games could have good battlepasses. A world where every new model and character wouldn't need to be submitted for approval by Games Workshop. In this world, which games would we like to see realized in the Warhammer Universe? Tune in to find out. (man, that was a good description)   POORHAMMER MERCH! https://orchideight.com/collections/poorhammer PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/SolelySingleton YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@thepoorhammerpodcast TWITCH: https://www.twitch.tv/poorhammer Website: https://poorhammer.libsyn.com/   TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Hello and Welcome 01:36 We are Skipping the Obvious Genres 03:28 Souls-Like... But Age of Sigmar 06:18 Dungeon Keeper... but 40K 09:57 Dynasty Warriors... but 40K 15:16 TerraGenesis... but 40K 18:18 Factorio... but Tyranids 31:14 Yakuza Like a Dragon... But 40K 36:36 From the Depths... but 40K 40:21 Trade Simulator... But 40K 45:10 Satisfactory... but Votann 47:59 Visual Novel... But 40K 51:28 Dating Sim... But 40K 56:27 Frostpunk... but 40K 58:38 Soul Calibur... but 40K 01:01:11 QOP... But 40K 01:04:19 Wolf Among Us... But 40K 01:10:31 My Summer Car... But 40K 01:12:28 Disonored... But 40K 01:14:59 Hi-Fi Rush... But 40K 01:18:13 Titan Fall 3... but... actually, just give us Titan Fall 3 01:20:17 Vampire Survivors... But 40K 01:22:53 Vania-Metroid... but 40K 01:27:17 Papers Please... But 40K 01:29:59 Where is the Pokemon game with Trazyn as a Protagonist? 01:31:55 Alright Audio Audience   Contact Information: You can interact with Solely Singleton by joining the hosts on discord and Twitter to give input to improve the show. Feel free to email more detailed questions and suggestions to the show's email address.   Your Hosts: Brad (DrRuler) & Eric (OnekuoSora) Brad's Bsky: https://bsky.app/profile/drruler.bsky.social Eric's Bsky: https://bsky.app/profile/onekuosora.bsky.social Show Email: thepoorhammerpodcast@gmail.com Merch Website: http://www.poorhammer.com/ Edited by: Menino Berilio Show Mailing Address: PO Box 70893 Rochester Hills, MI 48307   Licensed Music Used By This Program: "Night Out" by LiQWYD CC BY "Thursday & Snow (Reprise)" by Blank & Kytt CC BY "First Class" by Peyruis CC BY "Funky Souls" by Amaria CC BY

Leider findet sich nicht immer die Zeit, um eine neue Rezension zu schreiben und die Hörerinnen mit neuem Input zu erfreuen. Das liegt zum einen daran, dass es manchmal einfach nicht zum straffen Zeitplan passt und zum anderen, dass gelegentlich auch einfach die Lektüre fehlt, die mich so mitreißt, dass ich unbedingt etwas darüber schreiben will. Passend zum grauen Wetter habe ich daher heute einen alte, bereits vor neun Jahren und ebenfalls im November von mir veröffentlichte Rezension ausgesucht, die es lohnt, noch einmal erneut Beachtung zu finden.Bereits im Jahr 1869 schrieb der gerade einmal 23 jährige Franzose Isidor Lucien Ducasse, besser bekannt unter dem Pseudonym Lautréamont, sein Werk „Die Gesänge des Maldoror“, welches 1963 in deutscher Übersetzung im Rowohlt Verlag erschien. Dieses, sein einziges vollendetes Werk, gilt als Klassiker der Schwarzen Romantik und übte gleichfalls großen Einfluss auf die Surrealisten aus. Der Protagonist Maldoror besingt in sechs Gesängen sowohl seine eigene als auch die Grausamkeit der Menschen, ebenso wie seine Verachtung für den Schöpfer. Meine Rezension möchte ich mit folgendem Zitat beginnen:„Es liegt die Welt in Scherben,Einst liebten wir sie sehrNun hat für uns das Sterben,Nicht viele Schrecken mehr.“ (1944)Diese erste Strophe aus Hermann Hesses Gedicht „Leb' wohl, Frau Welt“, welches 1944 und damit circa 75 Jahre nach Lautréamonts Werk erschien, deutet eine Thematik an, die die Dichter und Philosophen über Jahrzehnte und Jahrhunderte hinweg beschäftigte und beschäftigt und die auch in unserem Alltag fest verankert ist. Die Medien berichten unablässig über die Gräueltaten der menschlichen Rasse, sei es im kleinen oder großen Stil. Wir sind jedoch nur begrenzt in der Lage, all diese Informationen zu verarbeiten und halten uns bewusst vor der Auseinandersetzung zurück, solange es uns selbst nicht betrifft und vielleicht auch, um darüber nicht völlig zu verzweifeln.Anders löst der Protagonist Maldoror dieses Thema für sich. Er, dessen Name so viel wie„Sonne des Bösen“ (Aurore du Mal), oder auch „Vergolder des Bösen“ bedeutet, zelebriert die Abscheulichkeiten und besingt die Bösartigkeiten der Bestie Mensch, nicht ohne dabei auch den Schöpfer ins Gericht zu nehmen, der diese Kreatur erschaffen hat. Maldoror sucht einerseits die Einsamkeit, indem er sich in Höhlen und anderen entlegenen Plätzen aufhält, andererseits braucht er die Gegenwart der Menschen, um seinen abartigen Neigungen zu frönen und den Menschen größt mögliches Leid in Form von beispielsweise Misshandlungen, Vergewaltigungen und Kindsmord zuzufügen. Maldoror sieht das Leben nicht als Geschenk an, sondern als fremdbestimmte Entscheidung, an der er keinen Anteil hat. Er wäre lieber „der Sohn der Haiin […] und des Tigers“ (S. 20) geworden, deren Grausamkeit bekannt ist und die die des Menschen trotzdem nicht im Ansatz übertrifft. Die gottgegebene Fähigkeit zu leiden, sieht er als verdienstreich und als Ideal an.Während des Lesens stellt sich die Frage, welches Geschöpf Maldoror selbst eigentlich ist. Zwar wird er im Klappentext des Buches als gefallener Engel, satanischer Verführer und als Verkörperung des absolut Bösen bezeichnet, doch beim genauen Lesen wird deutlich, dass der Satan nicht nur sein Rivale, sondern sogar sein Feind ist. (s. S. 137) Auch die aufkommende Vermutung, dass er ein Vampir sei, negiert er im Text selbst, mit der Begründung: „man hält mich zu Unrecht für einen Vampir, da man Tote so nennt, die dem Grabe entsteigen; ich aber bin ein Lebender“ (S. 198) Ich glaube vielmehr, dass Maldoror als Metapher für das Böse im Allgemeinen gedeutet werden kann. Nämlich für die über die Jahrhunderte und Epochen hinweg herrschenden Übel der Welt, die in immer anderen Gesichtern Unheil bringen.Und doch geht es Lautréamont mit seinem Roman nicht allein darum, das Schlechte der Menschen aufzuzeigen. Vielmehr verbirgt sich hinter seiner metaphernreichen Sprache, seinem Radikalismus, seiner Vulgarität und seinen Übertreibungen der Wille, beim Leser den Wunsch nach dem Guten im Menschen zu wecken. Auch sein Protagonist ist nicht das ausschließlich Böse, sondern besitzt Moral, wie sich meiner Meinung nach, an folgendem Zitat zeigt:„...aber vor allem kommt es darauf an, richtige Begriffe über die Grundlagen der Moral zu besitzen, solcherart, daß jeder von dem Prinzip durchdrungen sein muß, das befiehlt, den anderen so zu behandeln wie man vielleicht selber behandelt werden möchte.“ (S. 201/202)Die Ambivalenz Maldorors zeigt sich darin, dass er einerseits Freude daran hat, anderen beim Foltern zuzusehen, andererseits aber auch hilft und verachtend auf die Unvernunft und Rachsüchtigkeit der Menschen blickt, während die Tiere dem Menschen in dieser Hinsicht überlegen sind. Der Vergleich mit Tieren, der Wunsch des Protagonisten, selbst ein Tier zu sein, sowie Tiere als Metapher sind ein von Lautréamont häufig genutztes Stilmittel. Den Schöpfer bezeichnet er als hochmütig und als Voyeur, der sich nachts die Träume der Schlafenden ansieht.„Die Gesänge des Maldoror“ sind keinesfalls einfach zu lesen, schon aufgrund einer Sprache, die wir heute so nicht mehr verwenden. Wenn der Zugang dazu einmal geglückt ist und man sich sozusagen ‘eingelesen' hat, ergeben sich weitere Schwierigkeiten. Zum einen die mitunter sehr langen und verschachtelten Sätze, zum anderen die Vermischung von Realität, Traum, Metapher und auch Halluzinatorischen. Oft ist nicht ganz klar bzw. eindeutig mit wem oder wovon Maldoror gerade spricht. Hinzu kommen die Brutalität, Grausamkeit und der Sadismus, mit denen Maldoror agiert und die Lautréamont bewusst einsetzt, um zu schockieren, aber vor allem um zu läutern. Nicht ohne Grund hatte er daher Schwierigkeiten, sein Buch verlegen zu lassen.Und doch schafft es Lautréamont, dass der Leser nicht nur Abneigung gegen Maldoror empfindet, sondern sich auch in ihn und seine zutiefst menschlichen Fragen hinein fühlen kann, wie beispielsweise folgende: „Oft habe ich mich gefragt, was leichter zu ergründen sei: die Tiefe des Ozeans oder die Tiefe des menschlichen Herzens!“ (S.24/25) Diese Frage mag zunächst etwas pathetisch klingen, doch der Ozean ist ein wichtiges Motiv im Roman. Denn der Ozean ist majestätisch und birgt eine enorme Tier- und Pflanzenwelt und neben diesen bekannten Dingen auch viele Geheimnisse und unerforschte Stellen. Maldoror geht sogar soweit, ihn, also den Ozean, den ‘großen Junggesellen' zu nennen, was in diesem Fall eine Bezeichnung für Gott ist und deutlich macht, welchen Stellenwert der Ozean für Maldoror einnimmt. Sein innehalten und seine Gedanken über den Ozean, zählen für mich zu den schönsten Stellen im gesamten Buch, da sie nicht nur Bilder und Assoziationen in mir hervorrufen, sondern auch sehr treffend formuliert sind, weshalb ich an dieser Stelle gern noch einmal zitieren möchte:„Alter Ozean, du bist das Symbol der Identität: immer dir selber gleich. Im Grunde deines Wesens änderst du dich nicht, und wenn deine Wogen irgendwo in Aufruhr sind, dann sind sie in einer anderen, ferneren Gegend in vollendeter Ruhe. Du gleichst nicht dem Menschen, der auf der Straße stehenbleibt, um zwei Bulldoggen zuzusehen, die sich an der Gurgel packen, der aber auch nicht stehenbleibt, wenn man einen Menschen zu Grabe trägt, der heute morgen zugänglich ist und heute abend schlechter Laune; der heute lacht und morgen weint. Ich grüße dich, alter Ozean!“ (S. 23)„Die Gesänge des Maldoror“ sind keine einfache Lektüre, nichts das man eben mal so nebenbei liest und doch sehr lesenswert, da sie im Laufe der Zeit nicht an Aktualität verloren haben. Daher möchte ich Lautréamonts einziges, vollendetes Werk unbedingt weiter empfehlen, auch wenn das einmalige Lesen sicher nicht genügt, um es in Gänze zu durchdringen, so doch um zunächst einen Eindruck dessen zu gewinnen, worum es dem Autor ging, nämlich: „um den Leser zu bedrücken und in ihm den Wunsch nach dem Guten als Heilmittel zu wecken.“ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lobundverriss.substack.com

After Mexico's war for independence, a new bride finds herself alone in a haunted house surrounded by people who don't believe her. Isabel Cañas' debut novel The Hacienda blends romance, terror, and the supernatural to tell a story infused with Mexican culture. In a 2022 interview with Weekend Edition Sunday, Cañas told Ayesha Rascoe about the novel's themes – colonialism, social status, the syncretism of Catholicism and indigenous practices – and her own fear of the dark.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Filmmaker Billy Corben joins Chuck Todd to talk about his new documentary Men of War—a wild true story that Corben calls “Florida Man with international implications.” The film follows a group of would-be mercenaries and ex-soldiers who tried to stage a coup in Venezuela, exposing how Miami’s shadowy underworld collides with global politics. Corben and Todd dive into the cocaine-fueled chaos of Miami in the ’80s and ’90s, the psychological toll of endless war, and how one ex-Green Beret accidentally stumbled into Trump’s orbit while plotting regime change. From Marco Rubio’s precarious foreign policy balancing act to the ongoing collapse of the Democratic Party in Florida, Chuck and Billy explore how Latin American politics, disinformation, and corruption all intertwine in the Sunshine State. Plus, they discuss Miami’s misunderstood identity, Trump’s rumored presidential library, and whether the city’s mayoral race signals what’s next for Florida’s political future. Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win! Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Billy Corben joins the Chuck ToddCast 02:00 Men of War is basically “Bay of Pigs” for Venezuela 02:45 Men of War is perfectly timed for today’s news cycle 03:45 Cocaine boom was huge in Miami in the 80’s & 90’s 05:00 Men of War is “Florida Man w/ international implications” 07:00 The psychological damage of multiple tour deployments 09:00 The main character Jordan is a “post-modern” version of a soldier 13:15 Protagonist accidentally entered Trump’s high end orbit 17:30 Jordan needed to put together a trailer to find financiers for his coup 19:30 Shady international characters are common to find in Miami 20:15 Reception from the Venezuelan community for the doc? 22:15 Everybody in Miami wants to be president of a free Cuba 23:30 1950s cars are the only private possessions in Cuba 26:00 Chuck’s grandfather worked in Cuba, had to display photos of Castro 28:30 Miami is misunderstood as a melting pot when it isn’t 29:15 Miami has self segregated its neighborhoods 30:00 60% of Florida Venezuelans voted for Trump, now leaving the state 31:30 If ICE targets south Florida, there could be a massive political shift 32:45 Marco Rubio = Anakin Skywalker? Preventing the very worst of Trump 33:30 Rubio will be the fall guy for any major foreign policy failure 34:30 Administration is playing with fire in Venezuela 36:00 Congress has no idea what the administration is doing in Venezuela 37:30 The failed Venezuelan coup was memory holed because of Covid 39:30 Feels like we’re redoing Latin American policy of the 80’s 40:15 How has Jordan Goudreau not gotten a pardon from Trump? 42:30 American intervention in Latin America never goes well 44:00 End of USAID is creating vacuum in poor countries being filled by China 45:30 What does a “free Venezuela” look like in the Trump 2.0 era? 47:00 Jordan Goudreau feels betrayed by the American government 48:00 Algorithms have ruined social media 49:00 Is Miami-Dade red, blue, purple or something else politically? 52:30 Trump’s future presidential library slated for Miami 53:45 Miami is still a firm red county 56:00 Nothing is going well in Florida for the Democratic party 56:45 Trump is less popular in Florida than he was a year ago 58:00 Who wins the mayor’s race in Miami? 59:45 Mayor’s race will head to a December runoff 1:02:00 There’s historically been brazen corruption in Miami mayoral races 1:03:30 Trump thinks “asylum” means mental institution 1:06:00 Thoughts on Mario Cristobal 1:08:30 Miami can survive 1 loss and make the playoff, but not 2 1:12:00 Reuben Bain feels like a vintage Miami playerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck breaks down why Washington feels paralyzed — and how Trump’s gravitational pull still dictates everything from congressional gridlock to campaign strategy. From Mike Johnson’s dependence on Trump to Democrats’ internal tug-of-war between moderates and progressives, Chuck explores how both parties are struggling to govern in a fractured information ecosystem. He also looks at growing calls among policy thinkers for constitutional reform — from term limits and age caps to rethinking the incentives that drive political behavior. Despite the chaos, Chuck makes the case for cautious optimism: America’s democracy may be clogged, but it’s not beyond repair. Then, filmmaker Billy Corben joins Chuck Todd to talk about his new documentary Men of War—a wild true story that Corben calls “Florida Man with international implications.” The film follows a group of would-be mercenaries and ex-soldiers who tried to stage a coup in Venezuela, exposing how Miami’s shadowy underworld collides with global politics. Corben and Todd dive into the cocaine-fueled chaos of Miami in the ’80s and ’90s, the psychological toll of endless war, and how one ex-Green Beret accidentally stumbled into Trump’s orbit while plotting regime change. From Marco Rubio’s precarious foreign policy balancing act to the ongoing collapse of the Democratic Party in Florida, Chuck and Billy explore how Latin American politics, disinformation, and corruption all intertwine in the Sunshine State. Plus, they discuss Miami’s misunderstood identity, Trump’s rumored presidential library, and whether the city’s mayoral race signals what’s next for Florida’s political future. Finally, he answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment and looks ahead to the weekend in college football. Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win! Timeline: 00:00 Chuck Todd’s introduction 02:15 When Trump is overseas, the news cycle feels slower & less urgent 03:15 The American government is clogged like a toilet 04:00 Mike Johnson can’t do anything without Trump 05:15 There are not enough empowered moderates in congress 07:00 Republicans haven’t created an ACA alternative for 10 years 08:30 Democrats could pay a price for SNAP benefit cut 10:00 Democrats can extend funding for 3 weeks, and keep their leverage 12:30 The political elite in DC has self segregated in Trump 2.0 13:45 There’s no security for companies holding government contracts 15:00 Grifters have flooded to DC 15:45 Some progressives feel they can take over the Democratic party 16:30 Moderate Dems trying to find a way to grow the coalition 17:15 Large group of policy analysts worried about information ecosystem 18:45 DC gatherings being held to discuss preventing another Trump 21:00 America desperately needs to update the constitution 22:30 We shouldn’t be afraid to ask voters to make big changes 23:15 Strong argument for a 75 year old age limit for office 25:00 Trump is too lazy to pursue the worst course of history 26:45 The case for optimism during a dark political moment 27:30 Reforming the constitution is an 80/20 issue 28:15 Case for reform needs to tied to voters day to day lives 30:30 A bull in the China shop personality cult can’t run a country 31:30 We need to update the blueprint of the democracy 33:15 We desperately need better incentive structures for leaders 35:15 A leader needs to make the case for reform that isn’t about themselves or Trump 40:30 Billy Corben joins the Chuck ToddCast 42:30 Men of War is basically "Bay of Pigs" for Venezuela 43:15 Men of War is perfectly timed for today's news cycle 44:15 Cocaine boom was huge in Miami in the 80's & 90's 45:30 Men of War is "Florida Man w/ international implications" 47:30 The psychological damage of multiple tour deployments 49:30 The main character Jordan is a "post-modern" version of a soldier 53:45 Protagonist accidentally entered Trump's high end orbit 58:00 Jordan needed to put together a trailer to find financiers for his coup 1:00:00 Shady international characters are common in Miami 1:00:45 Reception from the Venezuelan community for the doc? 1:02:45 Everybody in Miami wants to be president of a free Cuba 1:04:00 1950s cars are the only private possessions in Cuba 1:06:30 Chuck's grandfather worked in Cuba, had to display photos of Castro 1:09:00 Miami is misunderstood as a melting pot when it isn't 1:09:45 Miami has self segregated its neighborhoods 1:10:30 60% of Florida Venezuelans voted for Trump, now leaving the state 1:12:00 If ICE targets south Florida, there could be a massive political shift 1:13:15 Marco Rubio = Anakin Skywalker? Preventing the very worst of Trump 1:14:00 Rubio will be the fall guy for any major foreign policy failure 1:15:00 Administration is playing with fire in Venezuela 1:16:30 Congress has no idea what the administration is doing in Venezuela 1:18:00 The failed Venezuelan coup was memory holed because of Covid 1:20:00 Feels like we're redoing Latin American policy of the 80's 1:20:45 How has Jordan Goudreau not gotten a pardon from Trump? 1:23:00 American intervention in Latin America never goes well 1:24:30 End of USAID is creating vacuum in poor countries being filled by China 1:26:00 What does a "free Venezuela" look like in the Trump 2.0 era? 1:27:30 Jordan Goudreau feels betrayed by the American government 1:28:30 Algorithms have ruined social media 1:29:30 Is Miami-Dade red, blue, purple or something else politically? 1:33:00 Trump's future presidential library slated for Miami 1:34:15 Miami is still a firm red county 1:36:30 Nothing is going well in Florida for the Democratic party 1:37:15 Trump is less popular in Florida than he was a year ago 1:38:30 Who wins the mayor's race in Miami? 1:40:15 Mayor's race will head to a December runoff 1:42:30 There's historically been brazen corruption in Miami mayoral races 1:44:00 Trump thinks "asylum" means mental institution 1:46:30 Thoughts on Mario Cristobal 1:49:00 Miami can survive 1 loss and make the playoff, but not 2 1:52:30 Reuben Bain feels like a vintage Miami player 1:58:00 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Billy Corben 1:58:30 Ask Chuck 1:59:15 Would Dems impeach with control of both houses of Congress in '27? 2:03:45 Should we be paying congress more to attract better candidates? 2:08:45 If possible, would you make the US a parliamentary system? 2:14:15 Is 60 Minutes devolving into a FOX style program that lobs softballs? 2:20:15 Violent and dangerous rhetoric not equal on both sides? 2:24:00 World series reaction 2:28:00 College football previewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

https://linktr.ee/blacksenseisociety

Think you've seen all the dystopia books out there? Think again! In part three of our “Teaching Dystopia” series, we share hidden gems, fresh picks, and classics, from middle grade survival stories to YA novels exploring climate change and government control. We highlight favorites like Alone and Station Eleven, plus TV and movie options like The Simpsons and Fringe to spark discussion and critical thinking. Want more on this topic? Join us in Happy Hour, where we'll keep the conversation going!Check out the show notes for the full list of books we mentioned in this episode: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode274Resources:NEW: Watch BNT episodes on YouTube!Teaching Dystopia WorkshopShop Our Faves."Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!"Get your FREE Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs gateway lesson: shop.bravenewteaching.com/cloudyCheck out Curriculum Rehab here!Support the show

Josh and Dan discuss expansion in the USL W League, the USL League One playoff picture, and then take a quick tour of European leagues returning to soccer after the International break. 

I was thrilled that Victor LaValle was able to join me to help recommend books with jerk main characters. Be sure the check out the new paperback editions of four of his books and catch The Devil in Silver on AMC in 2026.  Books mentioned:  The Devil in Silver by Victor LaValle The Changeling by Victor LaValle The Shining by Stephen King American Psycho by Brett Easton Ellis The Last Days of Jack Sparks by Jason Arnopp We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson Boy Parts by Eliza Clark Dark Places by Gillian Flynn A Personal Matter by Kenzaburo Oe Final Girl Song Check out the final girl songs here! Merch is finally available! Join the Reading Challenge! How to support Books in the Freezer We are on Patreon! Check us out! There's a lot of fun going on in the Patreon community. At the Final Girl level you can get episodes early and find out about topics and guests beforehand. Axe-Wielding Maniacs get to be part of a Voxer group chat and join in Netflix movie nights. Malevolent Spirits get everything that's been mentioned and bonus episodes!

DeepRAW082 tracklisting : 01 - Simo Cell "Piste Jaune" 02 - Raw Artistic Soul "Domingos Ride (Boddhi Satva dub)" 03 - Baby Ford "Built In" 04 - Mystic Bill "Like A Dream In The NIght" 05 - Valentino Mora "Plasma" 06 - Peter Van Hoesen "Protagonist" 07 - E-Dward! "Primal Dream" 08 - Move D & Dman "All You Can Sweep" 09 - John Daly "Two Days" 10 - Claro Intelecto "Peace of Mind (Electrosoul)" 11 - Tom Trago "Digital Love" 12 - Marcellus Pittman "888 In The Groove" 13 - XTAL & Keita Sano "Time Passing" 14 - Cybotron "Parallel Shift" 15 - 9BEATS "Mental Disorder" 16 - Orlando Voom "Sounds of Now" www.instagram.com/deepraw_music/

Er ist der wahrscheinlich berühmteste Frosch aller Zeiten: Kermit, Jim Hensons geniale Erfindung. Weltbekannt als Entertainer, Showmaster und jahrzehntelanger Schweinedamengatte, Protagonist zahlreicher Muppet-Produktionen, der Sesamstraße sowie anderer Fernsehserien, Filme und Specials.

The boys are back in the saddle and there's plenty to talk about in Cup Season! USMNT vs Ecuador Friendly USOC Qualifying Cup Season NISA Pro Cup Kickoff

This week Hannah, Sarah and Lauren talk about a "crazy love story", or possibly, terrible abuse and manipulation... you decide!October is recognized as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, here is week two.Resources:RAINN (anti-sexual violence organization): you can call at 1-800-656-4673, available 24 hours a day; you can also visit online at rainn.org.The Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC): visit online for additional information at stalkingawareness.org.Domestic Violence Hotline: you can call at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text by sending “START” to 88788, or visit the website at thehotline.org.Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: you can call 988 to talk to someone 24 hours a day, or you can visit them online at 988lifeline.orgSources:Crazy LoveThe New York Times: Burt Pugach, Protagonist of a Strange Tabloid Love Story, Dies at 93 Los Angeles Times: Linda Pugach dies at 75; disfigured by lye, she married attacker by Elaine WooDaily Mail: NYC lawyer Burt Pugach, who blinded his girlfriend with lye then married her after prison, dies aged 93 leaving $15M to his married caregiver - now accused of starving him and getting him to change will by Ben Ashford and Shawn CohenTravalanche: The Crazy Love of Burt Pugach and Linda Riss by Trav S.D.Wikipedia

Support my work on Patreon- https://patreon.com/realdavejackson Join the Tales from the Backlog Discord server- https://discord.gg/kAqSBb6jH2 Buy me a coffee on Ko-fi- https://ko-fi.com/realdavejackson It's been a real joy working my way through the Silent Hill series alongside doing this show, starting all the way back in episode 10(!) with Silent Hill 2. Today, I'm playing the sequel to Silent Hill 1, which is NOT Silent Hill 2...it's Silent Hill 3, and I've brought on the perfect guest to discuss what many fans to agree to be the last truly good Silent Hill game for many years. Guest info: Kaye Ross (she/her) * Check out all of the wonderful Duckfeed podcasts https://duckfeed.tv/ * Check out Kaye's horror game streams https://www.twitch.tv/duckfeedtv TIMESTAMPS * 0:00 Title Card * 0:28 Intros * 4:56 Our Histories with Silent Hill 3 * 10:35 Opening Thoughts About Silent Hill 3 * 14:51 Story Setup * 21:53 Aesthetics and Horror * 30:25 Sound Design and Music * 37:14 Heather As a Protagonist * 43:37 Puzzles and Riddles * 50:32 Tank Controls and Combat * 1:03:49 Final Thoughts and Recommendations * 1:06:36 The Many Podcasts at Duckfeed.tv * 1:11:09 Spoiler Wall and Patron Thank-You's * 1:13:11 Spoiler Section- Heather & The Cult * 1:36:39 Spoiler Section- Heather & Harry Music used in the episode is credited to Akira Yamaoka. Tracks used: You're Not Here, End of Small Sanctuary, Breeze- In Monochrome Night, Something Long Forgotten, Sickness Unto Foolish Death, Hometown Social Media: BlueSky- https://bsky.app/profile/tftblpod.bsky.social Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/talesfromthebacklog/ Cover art by Jack Allen- find him at https://linktr.ee/JackAllenCaricatures

Get in the zone! This week is a game with one wild journey from starting out as Starsiege: Tribes-themed extraction shooter to an original roguelite experience - it's Deadzone: Rogue, of course! Awaken on a ship to shoot through piles of robots and uncover the mysteries that an unhinged space program influencer billionaire promises folks who sign up for a Mars cruise. What dangers might we face? Or NOT face? Maybe we are all just brains in a vat, if you think about it. Actually… you don't want to think about it. You'd rather try to find some matcha on this ship instead. What you do you mean there's no matcha on board? Oh that's a big drill you have there… Custom RSS Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Music Transcript 1:21 - Game stats 2:55 - One sentence description 4:47 - Tribes universe connection & extraction shooter origins 13:05 - Pivot from Star Siege to roguelike format 18:55 - First impressions & new player experience criticism 21:16 - Weapon choices, perks, & augment systems discussion 28:12 - Meta progression concerns & upgrade system critique 34:29 - Difficulty options & enemy health scaling problems 38:56 - Enemy AI behavior complaints & tactical shooter debate 53:10 - Protagonist voice acting & narrative setup 56:42 - Act One story reveal: brain in exoskeleton 1:08:01 - Act Three body horror & final boss fight 1:14:50 - Ending choice: self-destruct or escape decision 1:26:42 - Rankings & final thoughts 1:38:40 - Similar games & show wind-down Next episode: Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap Contact us at grogpodzone@gmail.com! https://grogpod.zone Intro music: Alexa Tarantino - My Ship Outro music: Deadzone Rogue OST - Luggage Tag

In this episode, author Lisa Borders shares her unique insights and experiences, from her love of Phish's music to her newly released novel, 'Last Night at the Disco.' Discover the inspiration behind Lisa's latest work, her thoughts on Bruce Springsteen on Broadway, and her fascinating take on the classic song 'Thunder Road.' Plus, Lisa recounts her memorable encounter with Clarence Clemons and discusses the nuanced character of her book's protagonist. Put on your Boogie Shoes and hit play and then go to your favorite book dealer and pick up her book! https://www.lisaborders.com/ 01:54 Guest Introduction: Lisa Borders 02:03 Lisa's Background and Early Influences 04:52 Discovering Bruce Springsteen 06:28 The Impact of FM Radio 12:28 Lisa's Writing Journey 15:57 Springsteen on Broadway Experience 18:11 Writing Satire: Trump and Springsteen 26:16 New Novel: Last Night at the Disco 37:16 Unveiling the Protagonist's Complexities 39:59 Exploring Musical Inspirations in Writing 41:44 The Disco vs. Rock Wars Revelation 45:04 The Journey of Writing and Publishing 50:41 Humor in Writing and Future Projects 53:50 Springsteen, Music, and Personal Stories 59:52 Final Thoughts and Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shane blows his lid over the bonkers Game Pass price increases! Why silent protagonists suck! If a publisher gives us a free game is it more likely to appear in GameFace?

It's the hinge your entire story turns on—and one of the hardest story elements to identify and write.Can I be honest? I struggled with turning points for years.I knew they were essential. They're the moment when everything changes. The moment that forces the character to face a crisis choice. The moment that reveals what the story is really, at its heart, about.And yet . . . I couldn't see them.I found so many things that weren't the turning point. I found inciting incidents, and midpoints, and climaxes.The turning point, though? It eluded me.Until I learned a simple framework that finally, finally unlocked them for me.That framework:Reveals why the turning point matters so dang much within the storyTies the turning point perfectly to the inciting incident, climax, and every other element of storyIs objective and straightforward, making it clear to measure (no more guessing at turning points based on gut feeling!)Is wonderfully simple (it's kind of incredible how simple it is, considering how tough turning points are to spot)That framework marked my turning point in the way I edit turning points.If you have ever struggled to figure out what the heck the turning point is in a story, well, you're not alone.I hope this framework gives you a breakthrough. It certainly did for me!Further listening:Inciting incident (qualities & traps)Progressive complications (qualities)Progressive complications (traps)Protagonist's goalContent genresSend me a Text Message!Support the showRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Alice and Your Next Draft." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more writers through the mess—and joy—of the editing process. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap the stars to rate, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Loving the show? Show your support with a monthly contribution »

Im Oktober erscheint im Maro-Verlag ein besonderes Heft: Nämlich Oles Erzählung "Auf der Suche nach der gestohlenen Zeit".Was tun wir Menschen eigentlich den lieben langen Tag, wenn wir für Staat und Kapital unsere Lebenszeit hergeben? Das erklärt der Protagonist dieser Erzählung seinen Katzen – und versucht, inmitten des alltäglichen Wahnsinns nicht verrückt zu werden.Dieses Heft zeigt auf, woran die meisten Menschen leiden – und wie viel lebenswerter die Welt sein könnte. Das schöne Leben für alle fängt die französische Künstlerin Olga Prader mit ihrem Zeichenstift ein.Zu Autorenwelt geht es hier entlang:https://shop.autorenwelt.de/products/auf-der-suche-nach-der-gestohlenen-zeit-von-ole-nymoen?srsltid=AfmBOorzYeL8tfj7Z0XFdAXRCrktjXQ1rxDwzhiDCqx3wRZdsC-7EYQiZum Maro-Verlag geht es hier:https://www.maroverlag.de/marohefte/309-auf-der-suche-nach-der-gestohlenen-zeit-9783875126358.html

T.L. McCoy is the founder of Blue Round Book Group, LLC, and the author of DELILAH VERSUS THE GHASTLY GRIM, a magical middle-grade fantasy novel inspired by her real-life granddaughter, who lives with a rare and life-threatening seizure disorder known as Dravet Syndrome. The story follows a young girl who, after a life-threatening seizure, isContinue reading "More Books with Disabled Protagonists, Please"

Matthew and Riki dissect Netflix's You and how it exposes toxic rom-com masculinity. Joe Goldberg thinks he's the romantic hero, but his obsession with being the male protagonist leads to stalking, manipulation, and murder.How does You deconstruct rom-com mythology? The show reveals what happens when someone believes they're destined to "win" the girl through grand gestures and persistence, regardless of her actual feelings.Why do classic romantic comedies teach problematic lessons? From Say Anything to When Harry Met Sally..., 80s/90s rom-coms normalized stalking behaviors as romantic devotion.Does Joe's unreliable narration work as social commentary? We debate whether the show successfully critiques toxic masculinity or risks creating viewers who sympathize with his "romantic" motivations.Other topics: Serial killer vs. murderer definitions, the symbolism of Joe's book preservation room, Penn Badgley's performance balancing sympathy with horror, the way Joe constructs a dream version of his girlfriend in his mind, instead of seeing the real person she is, and comparisons to other problematic protagonists like Joker. **************************************************************************This episode is a production of Superhero Ethics, a The Ethical Panda Podcast and part of the TruStory FM Entertainment Podcast Network. Check our our website to find out more about this and our sister podcast Star Wars Generations.We want to hear from you! You can keep up with our latest news, and send us feedback, questions, or comments via social media or email.Email: Matthew@TheEthicalPanda.comFacebook: TheEthicalPandaInstagram: TheEthicalPandaPodcastsTwitter: EthicalPanda77Or you can join jump into the Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics channels on the TruStory FM Discord.Want to get access to even more content while supporting the podcast? Become a member! For $5 a month, or $55 a year you get access to bonus episodes and bonus content at the end of most episodes. Sign up on the podcast's main page. You can even give membership as a gift!You can also support our podcasts through our sponsors:Purchase a lightsaber from Level Up Sabers run by friend of the podcast Neighborhood Master AlanUse Audible for audiobooks. Sign up for a one year membership or gift one through this link.Purchase any media discussed this week through our sponsored links.

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we'll discuss the importance of choosing the right protagonist for your story, emphasising the need for a single human centre that readers can connect with, the distinction between external wants and internal needs, and the significance of crafting tailored opposition to enhance conflict.We'll also cover the role of point of view in storytelling and provides practical exercises for writers to refine their narratives.

Nebýt zrovna zraněný, musel by se Ousmane Dembélé v pondělí buď rozpůlit, anebo se z duelu v Marseille omluvit. Anebo mohl oželet pozvánku na vyhlášení Zlatého míče, kde by pak ale všem scházel. Coby nový král ankety stoprocentně.Protagonisté podcastu Nosiči vody probrali i řadu dalších témat. Především si všímali zápasu Sparty s Plzní. Anebo toho, že se duely slávistů s Bodo/Glimt a ligy v Liberci lišily jako den a noc.---Nosiči vodyFotbalový podcast Seznam Zpráv. Jaromír Bosák, Luděk Mádl a Karel Tvaroh každý týden o českém a světovém fotbalu. Příběhy, aféry, důležité postavy na hřišti i v zákulisí.Odebírejte na Podcasty.cz, Apple Podcasts nebo Spotify.Sledujte nás na Twitteru! Najdete nás tam jako @Nosicivody.Máte návrh, jak podcast vylepšit? Nebo nás chcete pochválit? Pište na audio@sz.cz.

For this week's episode, Neil and Jay chat about their five personal horror protagonist! Safe Room is a Bloody Disgusting weekly horror video game podcast with new episodes every Monday and Thursday. For additional streaming services, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linktree⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.  Feel free to follow the show and hosts on Twitter & Blusky: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BluSky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Neil⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Horror Bytes⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Find the 9 Points Rating System here: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/Find our Avengers: Age of Ultron review here: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2025-09-10T04_00_00-07_00 In this episode, the hosts review Marvel's Avengers: Infinity War, discussing their initial impressions, character dynamics, and the role of Thanos as both a villain and a potential main character. They explore the film's reliance on previous Marvel films for context and the effectiveness of its storytelling, particularly in relation to character development and emotional stakes. Through a detailed analysis, they explore how character arcs can span multiple films and how this affects viewer engagement and satisfaction.----------Highlights:0:00 ‘Avengers: Infinity War' Introduction6:51 Opening Scene14:07 Thanos: The Master Villain20:06 The Hero Debate34:40 Is Thanos the Protagonist?46:44 Series v. Standalone Movies1:13:16 Additional Plot Elements1:26:17 The Setting1:30:51 Lasting Impact#thanos #infinitywar #avengers #avengersassemble #thor #hulk #ironman #captainamerica #alostplot #blackwidow #gamora #filmthoughts #starlord #rocketraccoon #film #storyarc #mcu #marvelstudios 

Welcome back to Snafu with Robin Zander. In this episode, I'm talking with Bobby Podesta, longtime Pixar animator and storyteller. We dig into why storytelling and art matter, and why finding your own voice is more important than copying anyone else. Bobby opens up about his journey as an artist, the imposter syndrome he's faced, and how he learned to create art in a style that's truly his. We talk about how he turned a written novel into a graphic novel, translating dialogue and descriptions into illustrations along the way. He shares lessons from his college design teacher about noticing the art all around us—not just in museums or galleries. We also explore how design and storytelling balance function and emotion, in ways you might not even realize in everyday life. Bobby's story shows that creativity isn't about perfection – it's about showing up and being authentic. He gives a fresh perspective on how storytelling shapes the way we see the world and connect with others. This episode is full of insights for anyone who cares about art, design, and telling stories that matter. 00:00 Start 03:13 The Importance of Human Connection in Storytelling Bobby on storytelling Background: 30 years in film, always thinking about story structure. Drama is about “what you're both keeping back and what you're waiting to surprise your audience with.” Steve Jobs anecdote Jobs builds suspense with “one more thing.” On stage, he asks: “Has anyone ever wondered what this small pocket is for?” (the tiny jeans pocket). Instead of something expected like a coin, he pulls out “the world's smallest iPod and people flip out.” Why it works: audience knows the pocket's size → no need to explain iPod's dimensions. Structure: setup → familiar norm → question → twist → payoff. Bobby's takeaway: “That's really good storytelling, man. It's really good storytelling.” “People call him a salesperson. Like he's a great salesman. He's a great storyteller. If you can tell a good story, you're pulling people in. That's the key.” Robin on storytelling & AI His work is making commercials and mini-docs for startups. Says video itself doesn't matter as much as impact: “What I care about is changing human behavior and changing human emotion.” Believes the value of human storytelling is timeless: “The value of sitting at Homer's feet and listening to him recite the Iliad is never going to go away.” Bobby on storytelling & art Storytelling = fundamental way to convey and connect. Sees it like art: “Art is a way to express your opinion and how you process the world around you in a manner that hopefully other people can experience and relate to.” Calls art his “oldest friend, who I've probably treated the worst… neglected, starved, and then expect it to show up and perform.” Believes everyone can create: “Art is not a zero-sum game… art is ultimately subjective because art is an opinion about how you see the world.” Goal of art/storytelling: help others “find some relationship to the world around them through it.” 06:01 Art as a Form of Expression Robin's setup Grew up between an artist mother and entrepreneur father – “perfect intersection” of art + business. Distinguishes museum art (“old, on walls”) from art that's “around us all the time.” Points out modern communicators (Musk, Trump) as powerful storytellers/branders – even if you disagree with the content, “that is great art in the form of good communication.” Asks: why do we separate “high” art (Iliad, museums) from everyday, cultural storytelling (Pixar, branding)? Art is everywhere Bobby uses the car-buying analogy to explain awareness: “You're looking for a midsize pickup and suddenly you see them everywhere. They didn't just appear. You're just paying attention.” Art works the same way – once you start noticing, you realize it's all around you. Lesson from a design teacher: “If it wasn't dug up or grown, it's designed.” Everything man-made carries intention – and therefore, art. Pushes back on the museum-only view of art: “Saying art is only in museums is like saying there are only cars at dealerships. There are cars everywhere. There's art everywhere.” Examples of art woven into daily life: Clothing, headphones, glasses Desks, chairs, pottery, textiles Buildings, skylines, sidewalk prints Freeway dividers, lamps Even tools: “Go get a hammer. The handle's probably painted a color. It may be a penny's worth of art, but it's art, man.” Definition of art: “All these things are working with that balance between functionality and making you feel something.” Even branding choices – a color, a shape – are designed to evoke feeling. Perspective shift: Once you adjust your lens, “there's a lot of art out there. It's really, really amazing.” 12:04 The Relationship Between Artist and Art Bobby compares practice to a relationship: “It's like the people that love you the most, sometimes you treat the worst.” Practice is like a loyal friend or character always waiting: Wants to be fed, but often ignored. Always ready to show up again. “It's like that little character that shows up and is always there to help you out.” Robin asks if practice is a character on his shoulder. Bobby: “It probably is… but I love it. If there's a napkin, I'll doodle.” Art as a shared childhood language: Everyone starts out drawing: “Have you ever met an adult who didn't draw as a kid? Everyone says yes.” Drawing is how children interpret the world. Family encouragement made “the artist” part of his identity. Becoming a writer: Took a UC Berkeley Extension class called “Finishing the Novel.” Professor's advice: “You're all taking classes. None of you are professionals. Go form a writers' group.” Writers' group provided accountability → led to a first draft. Draft → literary agent → graphic novel → published book. “Flash forward all these years later and I have a book that comes out… I guess I'm an author.” Lessons on growth and identity: Identity comes from practice and persistence, not instant recognition. Progress isn't linear: “The road is not a straight line.” Common trap: believing “I should have been there already.” Bobby reframes time: “You can often have what you want, or you can have something when you want it. But you can rarely have what you want when you want it.” Letting go of rigid timelines gives a better chance of arriving. 18:01 The Process of Creating a Graphic Novel Robin asks why this story, why now, and why as a debut novel. Bobby admits he had played with different story ideas before. Thought to himself: “If I only have one chance to do this, what story do I want to tell?” Origin spark: a daydream while driving. “What if an animal just jumped out in front of me?” What if it leapt into the air and flew away? “What if that animal was a reindeer?” Question: what would a reindeer be doing here? That “what if” became the seed of the story. Bobby folded parts of himself into the idea. Loves holiday stories and movies → wanted to write one. Describes storytelling as crafting from a “pantry of experiences.” Not autobiography or documentary, but infused with pieces of his life. Details of the novel: Protagonist is an 11-year-old girl in 1955 Colorado. Bobby: “I was neither alive in 1955, nor have I ever been an 11-year-old girl, nor have I found a flying reindeer — spoiler alert.” Still, fragments of his own experiences and emotions shape the narrative. Goal as an author: To blend reality with imagination. To create something unique, fresh, and able to stand on its own. 20:58 Visual Storytelling vs. Written Storytelling Robin asks about storytelling: what's similar between Steve Jobs' two-minute iPod reveal and a 350-page graphic novel? Bobby: scale is different, but fundamentals are the same. Both are about introducing an idea, building drama, and pulling the audience in. Events and books both follow arcs: setup → build → climax → resolution. “He doesn't start the event with that, he ends the event with that. That's the climax.” Storytelling has shape across mediums: Characters introduced → audience grows to care → surprises and turns → payoffs. Example: Steve Jobs' coin pocket reveal → set up, then payoff. In a book, the payoff may come 100 pages later instead of 30 seconds. Analogy: whether you play 30 seconds of a song or an hour-long concert, you're still using the same fundamentals of music. Robin shifts to Bobby's background as a visual storyteller. As an animator of 30 years, Bobby is comfortable with visual stories, while Robin is more comfortable with written ones. Robin compares Bobby's graphic novel to The Bone Compendium (which he revisits often) and contrasts with Heinlein novels he might attempt. Robin: making comics doesn't have to be like “my mother's artwork she slaved over for years.” It can be like newspaper comics compiled into story. Asks Bobby for advice on where to begin if he wanted to try sketching a visual story. Bobby's advice: Many people don't think visual storytelling is possible for them. Shares personal story: On his first post-college date with his wife (now 25 years married), he said he wanted to write a book. It took him 25 years to actually write one. Never thought of doing a graphic novel because his drawing style didn't look like Marvel or X-Men. Even as a professional artist, felt imposter syndrome Realization: it's not about imitating Spider-Man — it's about drawing in your own style. Art is your opinion expressed visually. Stick figures can work if they serve the story. Doesn't have to be polished airbrushed paintings. How his graphic novel came about: Originally wrote the story as a regular novel. Sent to publishers with just a few illustrations. All said no — except one, who said: “I love the illustrations. Would you consider making this a graphic novel?” Bobby: “All right.” Treated it as an invitation. Decided to draw in his own style. Practical process: Took all the dialogue he had already written. Turned descriptions into drawings. Book was already written in close third person, without inner thoughts → made translation easier. First pass: dialogue in speech bubbles, description drawn. Realized: “I guess this works.” Takeaway: You don't have to start by drawing an entire book from scratch. You can begin with writing, then translate description into visuals.   28:10 Resilience in the Face of Rejection Robin points out the sheer amount of work Bobby went through: writing a book, getting rejected repeatedly, reinventing it with illustrations, then turning it into a graphic novel only to be rejected again. Robin: “It's almost the literal definition of courage… getting back up and trying again.” Notes that outsiders might think: “30-year Pixar animator, easy for you.” But the reality was rejection after rejection. Asks: how do you come back? What is your relationship with practice that allows you to face no 50 times and keep going? Bobby on optimism and imagination: “I'm lucky that I happen to be what myself and other people probably call an optimistic person.” Describes himself as “an optimist with a vivid imagination” → always assuming, “Yeah, we'll figure this out.” Loves being middle-aged because experience gives perspective: you've seen enough to know you can recover. The arc of a career/life: Beginning stage: fearless. “I can do anything because I cannot die.” Willing to leap into anything: start a company, go broke, jump off a cliff → “We'll figure it out.” Middle stage: awareness of consequences. Relationships, responsibilities, failures and successes → “I don't know if I should do anything.” Weight of awareness can freeze you. Later stage: resilience. “I'm still here, I figured it out.” Confidence comes not from avoiding mistakes but from knowing: “I can recover from anything.” Personal examples: Bobby's two kids are both in college. He reflects on their application process: multiple schools, multiple options. His own experience was the opposite: Applied to only one school (CalArts). Barely got in. Supported by his single mother, who let him pursue art school. That early challenge taught him persistence and how to “figure it out.” The practice of persistence: Life and career filled with moments of trial and error. “That didn't work. Okay, maybe this. Well, that didn't work. Maybe this.” Sometimes progress feels like moving backwards before going forward again. Analogy: like a Roomba. Hits an obstacle → bounces, changes direction, keeps moving. “I don't know that equating myself to a robot vacuum is the best thing, but it eventually gets the whole job done.” 33:33 Storytelling Frameworks and Structures Bobby on classical story structure in his book: Book follows a traditional arc: opening, inciting incident (

Snímek Raději zešílet v divočině, který volně navazuje na stejnojmennou knihu, natočil režisér Miro Remo. „Filmové turné jsme odstartovali na Šumavě. Jel jsem tam s obavami, jak se na příběh budou dívat ti, kteří hlavní protagonisty znají. Tedy dvojčata Klišíkova – František a Ondřej,“ říká.

If your structure is perfect on paper, but your story still falls flat, this might be what you're missing.Have you ever structured a story with all the right pieces, but something still feels flat?You check all the boxes on paper:✅ Inciting incident✅ Progressive complications✅ Turning point✅ Crisis✅ Climax✅ ResolutionAnd yet it still falls flat. They mostly align, probably, you're pretty sure. But somehow, they're not working together the way they should.The turning point doesn't pack the right punch. The crisis doesn't feel devastating enough, even though all is technically lost. The climax doesn't feel like a cathartic payoff, but a gentle womp-womp.All the pieces are there. So what went wrong?Here's the thing: in order for the six elements of story to work, you have to understand your character's goal.Most writers have a vague sense of what their protagonist generally wants. But that's not enough.You need to know specifically the thing that they want—and the thing they don't want.So in this episode, I'm putting the goal under the microscope. You'll learn:Why it's not enough to know what your character wantsA super-simple framework for a character's goal (seriously, it's ridiculously easy)How that framework summarizes the meaning of the entire storyAnd how the goal glues all six elements of story together, driving the entire story from inciting incident to resolutionWithout a clearly defined goal, all the structure in the world won't make your story come alive.With it, everything else falls neatly into place.Dig deeper with these related episodes:Inciting incident (qualities & traps)Progressive complications (qualities)Progressive complications (traps)Content genresSend me a Text Message!Support the showRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Alice and Your Next Draft." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more writers through the mess—and joy—of the editing process. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap the stars to rate, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Loving the show? Show your support with a monthly contribution »

Your protagonist's first appearance can make or break your story. That opening impression tells your reader whether they should lean in, or move on.Too often, writers get stuck in backstory, mundane routines, or quirky details that don't really matter yet. The result? A flat introduction that fails to spark curiosity or connection.In this episode, we'll cover:Why your protagonist's introduction carries so much weight.The 4 most common mistakes writers make in opening scenes.3 strategies to ensure your main character's first appearance is memorable, relatable, and compelling.By the end, you'll know how to craft an introduction that makes readers care, and keeps them turning pages.Episode Web PageNot sure if your idea has what it takes to become a powerful story? This free quick guide will help you uncover the heart of your idea in just three simple steps. You'll walk away with a one-sentence premise you can build your entire book on, and the clarity and confidence to keep going.Download Your Quick Guide HereWant to join a community of like-minded writers? Need inspiration and support? Join us in our private Writer Unleashed Community Facebook Group. It's totally free to join.

Our favorite competition is getting set to kick off and we're here for it. Plus USMNT chatter and a dive into the USL League One Playoff picture. Oh, and the HENNY DERBY.

Kat Crosswell is based in Oakland. Her novel is about a Black family living in  Chicago in the 1970s. It's called, “Pieces of Eight: A Harper Family Mixtape.” It came out earlier this year. 

The Boyz celebrate their Top 10 Final Fantasy Protagonists. Published Sep 10, 2025.   For all things RudeBoyz, head to: linktr.ee/rudeboyz   Find us on Podbean, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and TuneIn!   Thanks for listening, leave a comment & join the RudeNation! Review us on your podcast platform of choice, screenshot it, DM us, and get a shout-out!

This week we're throwing it back to season 2. Valerie is studying The Hero's Gift Expressed and Melanie is studying Forces of Antagonism. Legally Blonde is a beautiful example of both! Get The Fundamentals of Storytelling today! Go to storynerd.ca/courses and use coupon code CANADA50, now through July 7, for 50% off. For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.

Anyone who loves a strong female lead will enjoy listening to this episode. In addition to talking about why it seems unlikable older women are getting thrown under the literary bus lately, hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Ellison Weist delve into these six novels:  The Satisfaction Café: Kathy WangBug Hollow: Michelle HunevenAt Last: Marisa SilverFonseca: Jessica Francis KaneA Dog in Georgia: Lauren GrodsteinSeduction Theory: Emily Adrian Here is Fall into Fitness: Harvest Your Strength.    When you shop our sponsors, you help AMR.We appreciate your—and their—support! Put Currex insoles in all your shoes:Get 15% off w/ code AMR15 at Currex.com   For $25 off your first order, use codeAMR25 at GOSleeves.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special guest John Howard-Fusco joins the show to talk all things USL women's soccer. USL Super League and W League talk throughout this episode. Plus so much more!

Josh and Dan take on the biggest news in the American game (and beyond) and bring their own dynamic approach and perspective to discussing it. 

In Episode 49 of Undercurrents of Romance, Tracey Devlyn sits down with New York Times bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer to discuss her new adult romantasy, WARRIOR PRINCESS ASSASSIN. A deceitful princess. A haunted king. A conflicted assassin. Brigid Kemmerer weaves a richly layered romantasy bursting with political stakes, tangled loyalties, and burning chemistry. With deadly magic and forbidden longing on every page, this is the first book in a fierce new trilogy you won't want to miss. Love this episode? Rate it ⭐️ Thumbs Up

Dive into the world of 2000s fantasy and uncover what makes the protagonists of this iconic era so brilliant! From incredible wit to mind-boggling courage, we're exploring the characteristics that make these heroes unforgettable. Join us as we delve into the world of fantasy and discover what sets these 2000s protagonists apart. Whatever your fantasy subgenre preferences, this episode has something for you! So, sit back, relax, and get ready to revisit the magic of the 2000s fantasy protagonists.#FantasyForTheAges #Fantasy #SFF #FantasyFiction #BestFantasy #BookRecommendations #TBR #ReadingRecommendations #booktube #booktuberWant to purchase books/media mentioned in this episode?Abhorsen: https://t.ly/6tFVmAmerican Gods: https://t.ly/e_8taCatching Fire: https://t.ly/DUcyADevlin's Luck: https://t.ly/Ad5YiDragons of a Vanished Moon: https://t.ly/xTcnOElantris: https://t.ly/1l0VREragon: https://t.ly/nxt-RFablehaven: https://t.ly/iahqyGraceling: https://t.ly/jOinHHarry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix: https://t.ly/7CZTXKnife of Dreams: https://t.ly/cLSQzMistborn: The Final Empire: https://t.ly/ErX1KMortalis: https://t.ly/OnntmThe Name of the Wind: https://t.ly/ndJbgPaladin of Souls: https://t.ly/t7UugRed-Headed Stepchild: https://t.ly/xwt1VServant of the Shard: https://t.ly/JFv2-Skulduggery Pleasant: https://t.ly/zyojpStorm Front: https://t.ly/eJ5CQThe Way of Shadows: https://t.ly/jfqhzWolves of the Calla: https://t.ly/a3XOLWays to connect with us:Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.socialFollow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheagesJim's Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 ————————————————————————————Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements:https://elements.envato.com/

In a month where we hoped not a lot would happen, a whole lot happened. Xbox went on a massive spree of layoffs. Nintendo has broken records with the Switch 2, and a bunch of mobile games keep happening, despite our wishes.Our main topic is a discussion of protagonists we despise! Please stop making us play as these lame characters!Theme Song by David WiseTo support our show and get exclusive access to over 75 bonus episodes, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/hairofthedogcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Us: Blue.Sky: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/hairofthedogcast.bsky.social⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠E-Mail: Hairofthedogcast@gmail.com Write us a review! We appreciate your support!

Find the 9 Points Rating system here: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/ In this episode of A Lost Plot, the hosts review the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe release, 'Fantastic Four First Steps.' They discuss their initial reactions, character dynamics, and the overarching themes of family and sacrifice. The conversation delves into character development for Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and The Thing, as well as the portrayal of villains Galactus and Silver Surfer. The hosts critique the film's climax and its lasting impact on the franchise, ultimately concluding that while the film has its merits, it falls short in character development and thematic depth.----------Highlights:0:00 'Fantastic Four: First Steps' Introduction5:53 Opening Scene10:58 Protagonists and Themes16:19 Reed Richards or Mr. Fantastic21:15 Sue Storm29:07 The Human Torch and The Thing36:31 Galactus50:00 Silver Surfer58:45 Themes Revisited#fantasticfour #fantasticfourfirststeps #mcu #marvelreview #characteranalysis #galactus #suestorm #reedrichards #alostplot #storytelling #film #filmthoughts #superherofilms #silversurfer 

Messi skipped the MLS All-Star match and now all hell is breaking loose. Does this spell the end of his time in the States? Probably not, but we discuss it regardless. Plus NISA 3.0 and season two of the USL Super League.

This week in the Wrap Party, Zeth and Jake are talking about John Holmes, Boogie Nights, commercials from the ‘80s and ‘90s, Gen X, the difference between Eddie and the Hot Rods and Eddie and the Cruisers, summer playlists, and washed-up protagonists. Next week, get ready for our episode on Roman Polanski. In the meantime, Zeth and Jake want to hear from you. What are you watching and listening to? What did you think of the John Holmes/Wonderland Murders episode? Join the party and give us your recs and reviews! Call or text (617) 906-6638, email disgracelandpod@gmail.com, or reach out on socials @disgracelandpod. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices