Podcasts about Reads

What if you didn't need a big, perfectly defined goal to grow next year? What if growth could start with something simple…something you could do in the margins of your day? If goal setting feels overwhelming, exhausting, or just not realistic for your season of life, this episode is for you. Because today, we're talking about one of my favorite, low-pressure ways to grow: reading. And more specifically, my Top 10 books of 2025. Want to grow without burning out? Let's talk about why reading might be the most sustainable “goal” you set this year. Better Together, Christine  MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE My Top 10 Book List, 2020 Edition Episode 52: Top 10 books of 2021 Episode 86: How to Read More Books Episode 126: What to Read in 2023   Episode 183: My Top 10 Book Recs for 2024 Episode 232: Top 10 Books of 2024 Episode 254: The Power of Sharing Military Family Stories  RESOURCES Work With Me Join The Free Community Free Clarity Workshop What Matters Most Worksheet Clarity Course Leave a Show Review. Pretty Please!

We're kicking off 2026 with a solo episode where Meagan shares some of her best reading tips to read more in 2026! You'll also hear some of her most anticipated reads for the beginning of the year! Thank you so much for listening! Happy Reading!Books Mentioned: Episodes Mentioned:Connect with Meagan:

Bryan Washington joins Deborah Treisman to read “A Small Flame,” by Yiyun Li, which was published in The New Yorker in 2017. Washington, a winner of the New York Public Library's Young Lions Fiction Award, is the author of the story collection “Lot” and the novels “Memorial,” “Family Meal,” and “Palaver,” which was a finalist for the National Book Award in 2025. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

✨ Happy 2026! We made it through the holidays and now get that beautiful fresh-start energy that January brings. I am so here for it.In today's episode, I'm sharing my very favorite baby and toddler books — the ones we reach for again and again with our 16-month-old and our preschoolers, and honestly the ones our older kids still love, too.Rather than focusing on a specific age, these are simply the books that:have a great rhythm or rhymeare fun to read aloud (over and over again!)have engaging illustrationsand bring joy to our home libraryBecause you know that feeling when your child hands you a book… and the cadence is clunky, the story drags, or the pictures just don't land? (Looking at you, Harold and the Purple Crayon — I know it's a classic, but it's just not my favorite

Before we dive into a packed season of legislative battles, we're turning to something foundational: God's Word.Bunni Pounds from Christians Engaged joins us in this special episode to share the vision behind America Reads the Bible—a nationwide Scripture initiative launching this spring that Christians across the country can participate in. She also highlights the impactful grassroots work of Christians Engaged through its Pray–Vote–Engage movement, equipping believers to live out their faith in the public square.Plus, we offer a preview of upcoming Richmond Capitol Action Days focused on life, parental rights, religious liberty, and education—important dates to mark on your calendar.From The Family Foundation. Links America Reads the Bible- https://www.americareadsthebible.com/Christians Engaged- https://christiansengaged.org/Links to Action daysVA Pro-life Day- https://vaprolifeday.org/Parental Rights Day- https://www.familyfoundation.org/donttreadonparentsVA March For Life- https://marchforlife.org/virginiaIf this episode encouraged you, leave a review and tell us what stood out to you.

As 2025 comes to a close, this episode is a love letter to difference makers everywhere—those navigating change, courage, career pivots, and complex workplaces. Lori Adams-Brown reflects on the books that shaped her thinking this year and deeply resonated with listeners across the globe. From leadership in the age of AI to psychological safety, toxic workplaces, courage, presence, and recovery after trauma, these books don't just inform—they invite you to live and lead differently. Many of the authors joined the podcast this year; others quietly transformed Lori's thinking behind the scenes. Together, they form a powerful reading list for anyone committed to doing good work without losing themselves in the process. This episode is also a reminder: your voice matters. Whether you're job searching, leading a team, serving your community, or recovering from burnout, these books offer language, courage, and perspective for the road ahead. In this episode, we explore: How leadership is evolving in the age of AI—and why authenticity matters more than ever What psychologically safe workplaces actually require (beyond values on a wall) Courage, agency, and presence in times of uncertainty Navigating toxic workplaces without sacrificing your dignity Why being “nice” can keep us stuck—and what real change requires Featured authors and books include: AI for the Authentic Leader Any Dumbass Can Do It Courage Over Fear Navigating a Toxic Workplace for Dummies The Price of Nice Perceptive The Psychological Safety Playbook Unforgettable Presence Navigating Your Career All the Cool Girls Get Fired Becoming the Pastor's Wife The Well-Trained Wife and I Belong to Me Key Moments: 00:01 – Why books matter to difference makers 00:03 – Leadership, AI, and early voices at the table 00:06 – Courage, agency, and toxic workplaces 00:10 – Psychological safety and inclusive leadership 00:14 – Career pivots, presence, and visibility 00:18 – Religious trauma, recovery, and hope 00:19 – A message of encouragement for those navigating uncertainty ✨ Call to Action:Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow difference maker.Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources and episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy end of 2025. We've collected a few 2025 favorite reads from some Green Team panelists. Please enjoy and share with us in the comments what your favorite 2025 reads were. Happy New Year!Music is Galactic Damages by Jingle Punks.Find us on:Discord: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/FNcpuuA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BlueSky: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/greenteampod.bsky.social⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@greenteampod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reddit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.reddit.com/r/thelegendarium/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Suggestion Box: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/Nsz6URWeq3JeeZnGA⁠⁠⁠

As 2025 comes to a close, this episode is a love letter to difference makers everywhere—those navigating change, courage, career pivots, and complex workplaces. Lori Adams-Brown reflects on the books that shaped her thinking this year and deeply resonated with listeners across the globe. From leadership in the age of AI to psychological safety, toxic workplaces, courage, presence, and recovery after trauma, these books don't just inform—they invite you to live and lead differently. Many of the authors joined the podcast this year; others quietly transformed Lori's thinking behind the scenes. Together, they form a powerful reading list for anyone committed to doing good work without losing themselves in the process. This episode is also a reminder: your voice matters. Whether you're job searching, leading a team, serving your community, or recovering from burnout, these books offer language, courage, and perspective for the road ahead. In this episode, we explore: How leadership is evolving in the age of AI—and why authenticity matters more than ever What psychologically safe workplaces actually require (beyond values on a wall) Courage, agency, and presence in times of uncertainty Navigating toxic workplaces without sacrificing your dignity Why being “nice” can keep us stuck—and what real change requires Featured authors and books include: AI for the Authentic Leader Any Dumbass Can Do It Courage Over Fear Navigating a Toxic Workplace for Dummies The Price of Nice Perceptive The Psychological Safety Playbook Unforgettable Presence Navigating Your Career All the Cool Girls Get Fired Becoming the Pastor's Wife The Well-Trained Wife and I Belong to Me Key Moments: 00:01 – Why books matter to difference makers 00:03 – Leadership, AI, and early voices at the table 00:06 – Courage, agency, and toxic workplaces 00:10 – Psychological safety and inclusive leadership 00:14 – Career pivots, presence, and visibility 00:18 – Religious trauma, recovery, and hope 00:19 – A message of encouragement for those navigating uncertainty ✨ Call to Action:Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow difference maker.Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources and episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Mike as he covers some recent purchases and talks about books read 07/07/25 – 07/27/25. The post Mike M's Weekly Reads 281 – Recent Purchases first appeared on DC Noise.

Kitty Reads Lit for Peace: Edith Wharton – 12/30/25 (The 'Seventies) plus The Next Peacelands This episode features a New Year's-season reading from Edith Wharton's story “New Year's Day — The 'Seventies,” part of her 1924 collection Old New York. In this piece, Wharton examines memory, reputation, and the quiet consequences of a life lived under the watchful eye of society. Kitty reads a short excerpt that brings out Wharton's signature blend of precision, empathy, and moral insight. Kitty O'Compost continues warming up her reporter voice for the forthcoming Peace Is Here series The Peace Experiments exploring peace, AI, and the commons. For this special holiday edition of The Next Peacelands, Avis Kalfsbeek changes her focus from the factual grounding of warzones and arms suppliers to highlight the spiritual organizations and networks actively building peace around the world. Get the Winter Holiday Reading list with links to the full stories: www.aviskalfsbeek.com/holiday Get Avis's books: www.AvisKalfsbeek.com Music: “The Red Kite” by Javier “Peke” Rodriguez Bandcamp: https://javierpekerodriguez.bandcamp.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3QuyqfXEKzrpUl6b12I3KW Intro Music: PulseBox on Pixabay Upcoming series: The Peace Experiments Edith Wharton – New Year's Day (The 'Seventies) on Gutenberg: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/61321

Aetherbound by E.K. Johnston Read Alikes: Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao Alone Out Here by Riley Redgate Pathfinder by Orson Scott Card

On this episode of Currently Reading, Kaytee and Meredith are taking a look back at their favorite reads of 2021. This was one of the best reading years. This was also the year we added the superlatives which everybody loved! Most of these books should be available for you to grab if any interest you after hearing us rave about them! Show notes are time-stamped below for your convenience. Read the transcript of the episode (this link only works on the main site) .  .  .  2:38 - Our Top 10 Reads of 2021 12:35 - Legendborn by Tracy Deonn (Kaytee #10) 12:39 - Season 3: episode 40 14:09 - Currently Reading Patreon 16:39 - Fablehaven by Brandon Mull  16:52 - A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus (Meredith #10) 18:50 - The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood (Kaytee #9) 21:25 - Furyborn by Claire Legrand 21:36 - Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo  21:56 - A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas (Meredith #9) 22:21 - A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas 23:01 - A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas 23:46 - The Day The World Came to Town by Jim DeFede (Kaytee #8) 23:50 - Season 4: Episode 14 25:32 - Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May (Meredith #8) 25:41 - Season 3: Episode 41 29:03 - Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir (Kaytee #7) 29:25 - Season 3: Episode 42 31:41 - State of Terror by Hilary Rodham Clinton and Louise Penny (Meredith #7) 34:22 - Intermission: Lowest Rated Books 34:58 - Roar by Cecilia Ahern (Kaytee) 35:41 - Atomic City Girls by Janet Beard (Kaytee) 36:48 - Survivor Song by Paul Tremblay (Meredith) 37:30 - Survive the Night by Riley Sager (Meredith) 38:25 - Meredith and Kaytee's Top 10 Books of the Year cont'd 38:36 - Love Lives Here by Rowan Jette Knox (Kaytee #6) K NOTE: while I do think it's clear that I love my sister dearly here, I want to be extra super clear that when I say "love covers all manner of sins" I am referring to the ways we as her family fail at times to do the best we can. I am not in any way referring to her gender identity as a sin. My sister knows this, but I want to be sure that anyone else who hears me, hears me correctly as well. 40:25 - Pony by R.J. Palacio (Meredith #6) 40:50 - Page & Palette Bookshop 42:05 - Wonder by R.J. Palacio 43:01 - The Guncle by Steven Rowley (Kaytee #5) 43:04 - Season 3: Episode 45 44:29 - The Devotion of Suspect X by Keigo Higashino (Meredith #5) 47:46 - Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston (Kaytee #4) 47:51 - Season 3: Episode 35 47:56 - Bookshelf Thomasville 48:47 - Blackwell's 49:05 - Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend 49:06 - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling 49:28 - 56 Days by Catherine Ryan Howard  49:37 - The Nothing Man by Catherine Ryan Howard (Meredith #4) 53:14 - Intermission: The Books that Surprised Us Most in 2021 53:44 - Season 3: Episode 34 53:50 - The Black Count by Tom Reiss (Kaytee) 55:38 - Piranesi by Susanna Clarke (Meredith) 59:25 - Meredith and Kaytee's Top 10 Books of the Year cont'd 59:50 - How the Word is Passed by Clint Smith (Kaytee #3) 59:56 - Season 4: Episode 19 1:01:37 - Fabled Bookshop 1:01:39 - We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker (Meredith #3) 1:04:52 - Razorblade Tears by S.A. Cosby (Kaytee #2) 1:04:56 - Season 4: Episode 2 1:07:18 - Matrix by Lauren Groff (Meredith #2) 1:07:59 - Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff 1:11:14 - All The Lonely People by Mike Gayle (Kaytee #1) 1:11:22 - Season 4: Episode 12 1:11:38 - Minisode w/Mike Gayle 1:14:09 - A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles (Meredith #1) 1:15:42 - The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas 1:22:48 - Reflections from the 2021 Reading Year 1:24:25 - Pony by R.J. Palacio 1:24:45 - Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston   Support Us: Become a Bookish Friend | Grab Some Merch Shop Bookshop dot org | Shop Amazon Bookish Friends Receive: The Indie Press List with a curated list of five books hand sold by the indie of the month. December's IPL is a recap of the year with Kaytee and Meredith. Love and Chili Peppers with Kaytee and Rebekah - romance lovers get their due with this special episode focused entirely on the best selling genre fiction in the business.  All Things Murderful with Meredith and Elizabeth - special content for the scary-lovers, brought to you with the behind-the-scenes insights of an independent bookseller From the Editor's Desk with Kaytee and Bunmi Ishola - a quarterly peek behind the curtain at the publishing industry The Bookish Friends Facebook Group - where you can build community with bookish friends from around the globe as well as our hosts Connect With Us: The Show: Instagram | Website | Email | Threads The Hosts and Regulars: Meredith | Kaytee | Mary | Roxanna Production and Editing: Megan Phouthavong Evans Affiliate Disclosure: All affiliate links go to Bookshop unless otherwise noted. Shopping here helps keep the lights on and benefits indie bookstores. Thanks for your support!

The 2025 Book Awards (According to Me): My Top Reads of the YearYou can contact Philippa at: Email quickbookreviews@outlook.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/quick_book_reviewsThreads: @quick_book_reviewsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@quickbookreviewsX: https://x.com/quickbookrevie3Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/quickbookreviews.bsky.social Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amy reads from The Widow, the Priest, and the Octopus Hunter: Discovering a Lost Way of Life on a Secluded Japanese Island. Chapter 1: The War Widow In 1997, Amy moved to a small island of just 950 people in Japan's Seto Inland Sea. She rented an akiya (empty house) from a widow whose soldier-husband had died in WWII. Six years later, when the widow dies, Amy purchases her home and must finally clear out the old woman's possessions. This is when Amy becomes fascinated with the woman, her life of hardship, and her will to overcome the past. The mystery of this woman's life prompts the author to set out on a year-long journey around the Shiraishi Island to interview the villagers who knew her best.  The Books on Asia Podcast is co-produced with Plum Rain Press. Podcast host Amy Chavez is author of The Widow, the Priest, and the Octopus Hunter: Discovering a Lost Way of Life on a Secluded Japanese Island. and Amy's Guide to Best Behavior in Japan.The Books on Asia website posts book reviews, podcast episodes and episode Show Notes. Subscribe to the BOA podcast from your favorite podcast service. Subscribe to the Books on Asia newsletter to receive news of the latest new book releases, reviews and podcast episodes.

Kitty Reads Lit for Peace: Henry David Thoreau – A Winter Walk plus The Next Peacelands This episode features a reflective reading from Henry David Thoreau's 1843 essay A Winter Walk—a quiet meditation on landscape, attention, and the moral clarity that comes from observing nature with patience. Kitty reads a short excerpt that highlights Thoreau's deliberate pace and his belief that paying attention is its own form of ethical living. Kitty O'Compost continues warming up her reporter voice for the forthcoming Peace Is Here series The Peace Experiments exploring peace, AI, and the commons. For this special holiday edition of The Next Peacelands, Avis Kalfsbeek changes her focus from the factual grounding of warzones and arms suppliers to highlight the spiritual organizations and networks actively building peace around the world. Get the Winter Holiday Reading list with links to the full stories: www.aviskalfsbeek.com/holiday Get Avis's books: www.AvisKalfsbeek.com Music: “The Red Kite” by Javier “Peke” Rodriguez Bandcamp: https://javierpekerodriguez.bandcamp.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3QuyqfXEKzrpUl6b12I3KW Intro Music: PulseBox on Pixabay Upcoming series: The Peace Experiments • Henry David Thoreau – A Winter Walk on Gutenberg: https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/9846/pg9846-images.html#chap05

Kitty Reads Lit for Peace: Sarah Orne Jewett – “Aunt Cynthy Dallett” plus The Next Peacelands This episode features a winter excerpt from Sarah Orne Jewett's “Aunt Cynthy Dallett,” published in her 1899 collection The Queen's Twin and Other Stories. Set in the snowy Maine hill country, the story offers a calm, closely observed portrait of kinship, hospitality, and the quiet bonds that hold a community together even in the most isolated seasons. Kitty O'Compost continues warming up her reporter voice for the forthcoming Peace Is Here series The Peace Experiments exploring peace, AI, and the commons. For this special holiday edition of The Next Peacelands, Avis Kalfsbeek changes her focus from the factual grounding of warzones and arms suppliers to highlight the spiritual organizations and networks actively building peace around the world. Get the Winter Holiday Reading list with links to the full stories: aviskalfsbeek.com/holiday Get Avis's books: AvisKalfsbeek.com Music: “The Red Kite” by Javier “Peke” RodriguezBandcamp: https://javierpekerodriguez.bandcamp.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3QuyqfXEKzrpUl6b12I3KW Intro Music: PulseBox on Pixabay Upcoming series: The Peace Experiments Sarah Orne Jewett – “Aunt Cynthy Dallett” on Gutenberg:https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/74980/pg74980-images.html#Page_279

It's the end of the year, so we decided to talk about some books we read in 2025 that weren't Pynchon. Of course, we decided to do this after we finished recording a 4+ hour episode for Against the Day, so we were admittedly all a bit spacey. Anyway, hopefully you'll recognize some of these books or come away with some new stuff to add to your never-ending TBR pile.If you like what we're doing and want to support the show, please consider making a donation on Ko-Fi. Funds we receive will be used to upgrade equipment, pay hosting fees, and help make the show better.https://ko-fi.com/mappingthezoneIf you enjoyed our discussion, please check out the following media that relates to these chapters:As always, thanks so much for listening!Email: ⁠mappingthezonepod@gmail.com⁠Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mappingthezone.bsky.socialTwitter: https://twitter.com/pynchonpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mappingthezonepodcast/Merch: mapping-the-zone.myspreadshop.comShow art by Brad Wetzel: @bradspersecond (on IG and Reddit)bradspersecond.com

Kitty Reads Lit for Peace: John Burroughs – Winter Sunshine plus The Next Peacelands This episode features a winter selection from John Burroughs' 1875 essay collection Winter Sunshine—a calm, observant reflection on landscape, weather, and the steadying practice of paying close attention. Kitty reads a short excerpt that highlights Burroughs' quiet conviction that nature offers both clarity and companionship. Kitty O'Compost continues warming up her reporter voice for the forthcoming Peace Is Here series The Peace Experiments exploring peace, AI, and the commons. For this special holiday edition of The Next Peacelands, Avis Kalfsbeek changes her focus from the factual grounding of warzones and arms suppliers to highlight the spiritual organizations and networks actively building peace around the world. Get the Winter Holiday Reading list with links to the full stories: www.aviskalfsbeek.com/holiday Get Avis's books: www.AvisKalfsbeek.com Music: “The Red Kite” by Javier “Peke” Rodriguez Bandcamp: https://javierpekerodriguez.bandcamp.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3QuyqfXEKzrpUl6b12I3KW Intro Music: PulseBox on Pixabay Upcoming series: The Peace Experiments John Burroughs – Winter Sunshine on Gutenberg (various editions): https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/4279/pg4279-images.html

My Socials: https://linktr.ee/ShawnacischroederMy Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/160741281Love You Most Instagram: https://instagram.com/loveyoumostpod?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Kitty Reads Lit for Peace: Kate Douglas Wiggin – The Birds' Christmas Carol plus The Next Peacelands This episode features a warm, humane reading from Kate Douglas Wiggin's 1886 novella The Birds' Christmas Carol—a tender holiday story shaped by Wiggin's early work as a teacher and social reformer. Kitty reads a short excerpt that highlights Wiggin's belief in community care and the quiet dignity of everyday kindness. Kitty O'Compost continues warming up for The Peace Experiments (Season Zero), the forthcoming Peace Is Here series exploring peace, AI, and the cultural commons through grounded storytelling and thoughtful reflection. For this special holiday edition of The Next Peacelands, Avis Kalfsbeek changes her focus from the factual grounding of warzones and arms suppliers to highlight the spiritual organizations and networks actively building peace around the world. Get the Winter Holiday reading list with links to full stories: www.aviskalfsbeek.com/holiday  Get the Avis's books: www.AvisKalfsbeek.com Music: “The Red Kite” by Javier “Peke” Rodriguez Bandcamp: https://javierpekerodriguez.bandcamp.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3QuyqfXEKzrpUl6b12I3KW Intro Music: PulseBox on Pixabay Upcoming series: The Peace Experiments Kate Douglas Wiggin – The Birds' Christmas Carol on Gutenberg: https://gutenberg.org/cache/epub/721/pg721-images.html

Staffers Sarah, Desirae and Brynne talk about the best books they read the past year. Books mentioned: A Walk in the Park by Kevin Fedarko; The Möbius Book by Catherine Lacey; The Wrong Daughter, One Small Mistake, The Perfect Match and The Wedding Vow by Dandy Smith; All Fours by Miranda July; The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo; and Love, Mom by Iliana Xander.Also mentioned: A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson; Wild by Cheryl Strayed; The Grand Canyon: Between River and Rim by Pete McBride; the documentary Into the Canyon; Biography of X by Catherine Lacey; The Last Word by Taylor Adams; author Freida McFadden; Ninth House, Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo; Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke; and The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.Check out books, TV shows and movies at countycat.mcfls.org, wplc.overdrive.com, hoopladigital.com and kanopy.com/en/westallis. For more about WAPL, visit westallislibrary.org.Music: Tim Moor via Pixabay

Kitty Reads Lit for Peace: Mark Twain – A Letter from Santa Claus plus The Next Peacelands This episode presents a warm, humorous seasonal reading of Mark Twain's 1875 piece A Letter from Santa Claus—written originally for his young daughter and now beloved for its gentle wit and clear-eyed affection. Kitty reads the letter in full, highlighting Twain's ability to offer comfort, humor, and truth in the same breath. Kitty O'Compost continues warming up for The Peace Experiments (Season Zero), the forthcoming Peace Is Here series exploring peace, AI, and the cultural commons. For this special holiday edition of The Next Peacelands, Avis Kalfsbeek changes her focus from the factual grounding of warzones and arms suppliers to highlight the spiritual organizations and networks actively building peace around the world. Get the Winter Holiday reading list with links to full stories: www.aviskalfsbeek.com/holiday Get the Avis's books: www.AvisKalfsbeek.com Music: “The Red Kite” by Javier “Peke” Rodriguez Bandcamp: https://javierpekerodriguez.bandcamp.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3QuyqfXEKzrpUl6b12I3KW Intro Music: PulseBox on Pixabay Upcoming series: The Peace Experiments Mark Twain – A Letter from Santa Claus https://americanliterature.com/author/mark-twain/short-story/a-letter-from-santa-claus

In this electrifying episode we welcome the fabulous Phil Stallone — celebrity psychic, tarot reader, and Armenian coffee-cup diviner — for an unforgettable mix of laughs, intuition, and a sprinkle of scandal and year end predictions. Segment 1: Meet The Psychic StalloneStill in New York, Pol' and Patrik kick things off with pure sass: “He's gay as f*** — like our T-shirt line!” Phil dives into his world of tarot, astrology, and TikTok fame, warning about online imposters and offering listeners a cheeky discount code “BILL10.” Between OnlyFans jokes, foot-pic confessions, and playful flirting, the vibe is pure entertainment. Phil recalls a decade in Hollywood's film industry before trading set design for spiritual design — swapping props for pentacles. Segment 2: Cards & CacklesArmed with tarot decks, Phil reads both hosts with flair. “Mercury's retrograde, bitch,” he warns as the cards reveal transformation and power.✨ Highlights: ·       Eight of Swords → Breaking free from mental limits. ·       The Tower → “Wake-up energy” bringing new beginnings. ·       Queen of Wands → Confidence and manifestation. ·       Queen of Pentacles → Abundance and partnership.Phil praises Pol's and Patrik's bond (“two queens slizzy-slaying together”) and lovingly includes their iconic pup Snow White 90210, saying animals heighten their good energy. Segment 3: Love, Loss & Leveling UpThe convo deepens as Phil opens up about past relationships and resilience. Between heartfelt moments, he jokes, “You don't need a husband, you need a butler!” reminding everyone that self-love is the best magic. Segment 4: Manifestation MagicThe energy rises with The Magician, Judgment, and Ace of Wands—a triple cosmic confirmation that big creative wins are ahead. Phil urges them not to sign contracts during Mercury Retrograde (“Wait till the 29th!”) and to write intentions, burn them, and manifest like queens. Yet not all is glitter: The Knight of Pentacles and Page of Swords hint at a sneaky, younger energy. “More levels, more devils,” Phil says, reminding them that haters are just background noise. Segment 5: Hollywood Tea & FarewellPhil teases connections with Julie Pacino, jokes about Staten Island winters, and dreams of L.A. sunshine. As laughter fills the studio, Patrik flips their signature line: “Usually we undress our guests—but today, we got undressed by you.” A fiery mix of psychic insight, celebrity tea, and fabulous humor, this episode proves that healing can sparkle as bright as couture. This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to ⁠HurrdatMedia.com⁠ or the ⁠Hurrdat Media YouTube⁠ channel! Subscribe to our audio:

Alex Kidd recites the words of poet Clement Clarke Moore and A Visit from St. Nicholas. Read more about Alex Kidd here.For more Drink Beer, Think Beer check out All About Beer.SponsorsDogfish Head Craft BreweryCalling all hop heads! Dogfish Head's 60 Minute IPA is a fantastically hoppy India Pale Ale that's beautifully balanced thanks to their unique continual hopping method. Delivering a pungent hop flavor that isn't crushingly bitter, 60 Minute is continually hopped throughout the boil for a full 60 minutes … starting to see where the name comes from?! Check out dogfish.com to learn more and to find some 60 Minute near you! Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Milton, DE. Please drink responsibly.Stomp StickersStomp Stickers is a proud member of the Brewers Association that produces a wide variety of printed brewery products such as beerlabels, keg collars, coasters, beer boxes and much more. Stomp's website features an easy-to-use design tool, low quantity orders, fast turn times, and free domestic shipping. Visit StompStickers.com and use code FIRSTRUN for 15% off your first order.All About BeerAt All About Beer, we're honored to share the stories that define the beer community, and we couldn't do it without the generous support of our underwriting sponsors. Their commitment helps sustain independent beer journalism, allowing us to highlight the people, places, and passion behind every pint. Their partnership ensures these stories continue to inspire, connect, and celebrate the craft we all love. Join our underwriters today and help make an impact on independent journalism covering the beer industry.Host: John HollGuest: Alex KiddSponsors: All About BeerTags: Poems, Holiday, High GravityMusic: polar-christmas-by-sascha-ende-from-filmmusic-io (1) and merry-christmas-short-instrumental-by-sascha-ende-from-filmmusic-io

In part two of our “Best Books of the Year” conversation, Hunter and Autumn share their favorite reads as categorized within general interest, children's books, and fiction and literature, reflecting on the stories that stuck with them this year. From critiques of modern discourse and meditations on land and interdependence to novels of grace, friendship, and moral awakening, these books ask what it means to live well and love rightly.Resources mentioned in this episode:General Interest:Summer of our Discontent: The Age of Certainty and the Demise of Discourse by Thomas Chatterton WilliamsA Walk in the Park: The True Story of a Spectacular Misadventure in the Grand Canyon by Kevin FedarkoFrom Strength to Strength by Arthur BrooksChildren's:We Sing! and Pippa and the Singing Tree by Kristyn GettyColorado: 50 Hikes With Kids by Wendy Gorton and Kristin TillackFiction and Literature:Lord of the Rings (3 Vols.) by J.R.R. Tolkien - Fiction and LiteratureTill We Have Faces by C.S. LewisSilas Marner: The Weaver of Raveloe by George EliotOrdinary Grace by William Kent KruegerMaster and Commander by Patrick O'BrianDeath Comes for the Archbishop by Willa CatherSmall Things Like These by Clare Keegan

Just when you thought the holidays were safe from Bankadelic insanity, along comes resident wise guy Johnny Da Big with his version of "The Night Before Christmans," featuring that syndicate boss in the red suit, Nicky Da Saint. Craps games, law enforcement raids, bare-knuckled insults ... it'll have you dreaming of a White Chrstmas, or any other kind for that matter, rather than this one.

This story isn't intended for young or sensitive readers. Readers who are on the lookout for trigger warnings are advised to give Worm a pass. Complete list of potential triggers: here-----------------------------------The Brockton Bay Book Club discusses J.C. McCrae's Ward live! The gang reads a portion of Ward and comes together to share our thoughts with each other and anyone who want's to participate.This week we cover Arc 11.b - 11.12 - BlindingRead along herePlay along with this week's BBBC BINGO while you listen!Support us and connect with us @brocktonbaybc-----------------------------------Thank you to the sponsors that fuel our podcast: This episode of the Brockton Bay Book Club is sponsored by Made Marion. Made Marion creates custom cottagecore and ren faire clothing designed for every body. Whether you're looking for a lace up bodice, rustic apron and pinafores, or ethereal dresses, you'll find items customized for every individual's fit and design. All items are lovingly hand sewn with attention to detail and a touch of whimsy. Visit Made Marion today and transform your wardrobe with clothing that feels as enchanting as it looks. Find Made Marion on etsy, at https://www.etsy.com/shop/themademarion

Phil Perry talks with Brian Hoyer to get his thoughts and insight on the offense Josh McDaniels runs, and how it differs from other styles around the NFL. What has been the key to Drake Maye thriving in this offense?00:00 Getting to know the different offensive systems in the NFL7:00 Why has Drake Maye been able to execute what Josh McDaniels wants11:30 Why don't other teams want to teach QBs to read coverage?20:00 how many QBs run a hybrid combination concept?24:00 Hoyer goes to the whiteboard to break down the X's and O's

Just in time for the holidays today I am reading a post from the r/childfree community that perfectly captures a childfree holiday nightmare. What starts as a Thanksgiving dinner quickly turns into that all-too-familiar interrogation we all dread having when this poster's aunt starts questioning her choice to no have kids. In this episode I break down why holiday gatherings are often a breeding ground for intrusive comments, forced opinions, and disrespect of childfree choices. I'll give you some tips on how to navigate these situations without loosing your sanity. As Christmas approaches let this be your reminder that being childfree does not mean you have to be open to debate. Share your holiday experience with me at claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comSupport the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero

Send us a textWe are absolutely smitten with this episode.

Patricia Lockwood joins Kevin Young to read “In the Waiting Room,” by Elizabeth Bishop, and her own poem “Love Poem Like We Used to Write It.” Lockwood is the author of the novels “No One Is Talking About This” and “Will There Ever Be Another You,” along with two poetry collections and a memoir. She has won the Thurber Prize for American Humor and the Dylan Thomas Prize, and she's a contributing editor at the London Review of Books. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

This is it — the grand finale of my Top 100 Sci-Fi Reads of All Time (2025 Edition). Today we reveal my Top 20 — the books that define science fiction for me.These stories shaped my imagination, challenged my thinking, broke my heart, and reminded me why sci-fi is one of the most powerful storytelling genres we have. This tier is mythic. Philosophical. World-shaping. And yes… the number one spot may not surprise you — but it's absolutely earned.If you've enjoyed this series, thank you for coming along for the ride. Be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Ring the Bell to keep the conversation going beyond this list.

Louisville Free Public Library's new executive director, Heather Lowe, shares her journey into this new role, her hopes for the library, and a few cozy reading recommendations for the winter season.

Nell Zink reads her story “The Welfare State,” from the December 29, 2025 & January 5, 2026, issue of the magazine. Zink is the author of seven novels, including “Doxology,” “Avalon,” and “Sister Europe,” which was published last year. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As a mom of six, author Leslie Leyland Fields was shocked when she first heard the term “breeder” to describe mothers of large families. In this edition of Sunday Afternoon Reads, Leslie reads her piece “The Case for Kids,” which was published nearly twenty years ago as a cover story for Christianity Today, offered today with all new statistics for contemporary listeners. As the birth rate in the US has declined to a record low, Leslie's words are more prescient than ever.  READ THE WRITTEN VERSION: -The Case for Kids - Leslie Leyland Fields GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN:  -Join the conversation at our Substack.  -Find us on YouTube.  -Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice.    ABOUT THE GUESTS:   Leslie Leyland Fields is a writer, speaker and professional editor who lives on Kodiak Island, Alaska in the winter and Harvester Island in the summer, where she works in commercial salmon fishing with her family. She co-hosts “Off the Shelf” on KMXT Public Radio and is the author of Parenting Is Your Highest Calling, Surprise Child, and other books. ABOUT THE BULLETIN:  The Bulletin is a twice-weekly politics and current events show from Christianity Today moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor-at-large and columnist) and Mike Cosper (senior contributor). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.    The Bulletin listeners get 25% off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more.    “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today  Producer: Clarissa Moll  Associate Producer: Alexa Burke  Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Graphic Design: Rick Szuecs Music: Dan Phelps  Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper   Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to elite territory. In Part 4 of my Top 100 Sci-Fi Reads of All Time, we're counting down ranks 40 through 21 — books that represent the core of what science fiction can do.These are stories about power, intelligence, control, revolution, and the long-term consequences of human ambition. Civilizations rise and fall here. Artificial intelligences gain personalities. Revolutions begin. Futures pivot.At this point, rankings get especially painful — moving any of these feels wrong… and yet, choices must be made.If you've been following the series, you're not going to want to miss the finale. Be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Ring the Notification Bell.

A Recording of the Dymocks Adelaide YA SPECTACULAR Panel “Why YA is Here To Stay” on Wednesday 14th November 2025. Episode Description: We've got something a bit different and a bit special for Radelaide Reads this month: a recording from the Dymocks Adelaide YA SPECTACULAR event - on Wednesday 14th November 2025 a panel of seven (yes, SEVEN) YA authors, assembled at Dymocks Rundle Mall to discuss the topic of why “YA Is Here to Stay”. It was a phenomenal event, in front of a huge crowd, and many people who couldn't attend asked whether there was any chance it was recorded. Well lo and behold I did strategically position a microphone to capture the brilliance. Here's a list of the authors (Instagram handles and latest book titles) who made up the panel: @vikkiwakefield (moderator) This Is How We Change The Ending @allaynewebster Maisy Hayes is Not for Sale @lkclipstone Tenderly I Am Devoured @mikelucasauthor One By One They Dissappear @sharonkernot Birdy @margot.mcgovern This Stays Between Us And me @ceceadam The Locked Room With special guest appearance by Becky Lucas ( @beckybookingagent )

David Plotz talks with Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales about his new book The Seven Rules of Trust: A Blueprint for Building Things That Last. They discuss how Wikipedia's culture of assuming good faith and shared purpose became a model for building trustworthy digital communities — and what lessons that holds for companies, social media, and politics today. Wales reflects on how to maintain trust in polarized times, the challenges of AI-generated information, and why genuine civility still matters online. Tweet us your questions @SlateGabfest or email us at gabfest@slate.com. (Messages may be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Podcast production by Nina Porzucki. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Plotz talks with Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales about his new book The Seven Rules of Trust: A Blueprint for Building Things That Last. They discuss how Wikipedia's culture of assuming good faith and shared purpose became a model for building trustworthy digital communities — and what lessons that holds for companies, social media, and politics today. Wales reflects on how to maintain trust in polarized times, the challenges of AI-generated information, and why genuine civility still matters online. Tweet us your questions @SlateGabfest or email us at gabfest@slate.com. (Messages may be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Podcast production by Nina Porzucki. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Plotz talks with Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales about his new book The Seven Rules of Trust: A Blueprint for Building Things That Last. They discuss how Wikipedia's culture of assuming good faith and shared purpose became a model for building trustworthy digital communities — and what lessons that holds for companies, social media, and politics today. Wales reflects on how to maintain trust in polarized times, the challenges of AI-generated information, and why genuine civility still matters online. Tweet us your questions @SlateGabfest or email us at gabfest@slate.com. (Messages may be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Podcast production by Nina Porzucki. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Video for this episode: https://youtu.be/Mqf05kN-TaI It's Word of the Year season, and we're counting down our Words of the Week of the Year! In the time-honoured tradition, we gathered them all up from our 2025 shows, and let everyone vote. And we're going to give a mention to everyone else's words as well. We're joined by our friends and patrons, so come see them in chat! Timestamps Start: 0:00 Intros: 1:31 Everyone else's words: 5:57 Related or Not: 34:34 Our Words of the Week of the Year: 51:35 Comments: 1:22:04 The Reads: 1:26:36 Outtakes: 1:30:50

In this second reading from A Bhagavad Gita for the Final Days, Shunyamurti unveils why the modern seeker must pass through Dante's threshold: “Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.” But hopelessness, as the new Gita reveals, is not despair; it is the moment when the ego finally understands it has no way out . . . and the Self takes over.

Today's Scripture passages are Nehemiah 7:66 - Nehemiah 9 | 1 Corinthians 14:26-40 | Revelation 10.Read by Ekemini Uwan.

Mary Webber O'Malley and Pamela Klinger-Horn join me to recommend their favorites reads of the first quarter of 2026.  Mary's titles January:All The Little Houses by May Cobb Skylark by Paula McLain The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave  February: Imposter by LJ Ross Saoirse by Charleen Hurtubise More than Enough by Anna Quindlen So Old So Young by Grant Ginder It's Not Her by Mary Kubica  March :Wait For Me by Amy Jo Burns Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser Bloom by Robbie Couch Murder at 30000 Feet by Susan Walter   Pamela's titles: January:The Jilted Countess by Loretta EllsworthHow to Commit a Postcolonial Murder by Nina McConigleyMeet the Newmans by Jennifer NivenMissing Sam by Thrity UmrigarMurder Your Darlings by Jenna Blum  February:This Book Reminds Me of You by Libby PageFamily Drama by Rebecca FallonA Sociopath's Guide to a Successful Marriage by M.K. OliverWhere Wildflowers Grow by Terah Shelton Harris March:All the World Can Hold by Jung YunA Far-Flung Life by M.L. StedmanThe Creek, the Crone and the Crow by Leah WeissLake Effect by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney Donate to the podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Venmo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Check out⁠⁠⁠ this list of all the great books⁠⁠⁠ I loved in 2025. Want to know which new titles are publishing in January - May of 2026? Check out our fifth ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Literary Lookbook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠which contains a comprehensive but not exhaustive list all in one place so you can plan ahead, and we color-code by genre in this one!  Looking for something new to read? Here is my monthly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buzz Reads⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ column with five new recommendations each month. Connect with me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠⁠.  Mary's social media handles: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠. Pamela's social media handles: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some books feel like a warm light in a room you didn't realize you'd been sitting in the dark. The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations That Create Secure, Lasting Love is one of those books—because it names the thing so many of us do to keep the peace: we swallow the truth, we smooth the edges, we “handle it,” we don't rock the boat… and then we wake up one day with a body full of resentment and a life that doesn't feel like ours. In this Book Talk episode of A Fresh Story, Olivia sits down with Colette Jane Fehr—licensed psychotherapist, couples therapist, relationship expert, and first-time author—to talk about the heartbreak behind silence, and the brave, almost holy work of finding your voice again.Colette doesn't write from a pedestal. She writes from the trenches. She takes us back to the origin story: a childhood shaped by destructive conflict, a first marriage shaped by conflict avoidance, and a painful realization that “keeping things calm” can sometimes mean abandoning yourself one quiet moment at a time. In the episode, Colette opens up about the way women—especially the oldest daughters, the people-pleasers, the ones trained to be “good”—learn to disappear inside relationships. And she connects that lived truth to her years in the therapy room: the pattern is everywhere. Avoiding the problem becomes the problem. The book's message lands like a permission slip: you can be kind and still be clear. You can be regulated and still be honest. You can love someone and still refuse to lose yourself.What makes this conversation hit so deeply is that it's not just about romantic relationships—it's about every relationship where silence has been mistaken for safety: parenting, friendships, family systems, even caring for aging parents. Colette's concept of self-connected communication isn't about winning fights; it's about returning to yourself so you can speak from your real feelings and needs, without blame or performance. If you're starting over after divorce, scared to trust your own voice again, or simply tired of living in “fine,” this episode offers a path back to emotional intimacy—first with yourself, and then with the people who are meant to meet you there.

Ben & Woods kick off the 9am hour of our Year In Review show by bringing back our oldest highlight from 2025 as we go back to early January when Ben read the food menu for a gentlemen's club in Arizona that the guys were thinking of visiting. Then we play an epic moment from early August when Padres Preisdent of Baseball Operations AJ Preller called in the day after the trade deadline to ROAST Ben for his awful takes, and we put a bow on what has been a very fun year for the Ben & Woods program! Listen here!

What would happen if our nation returned to the Word of God—together? Today I'm joined by my friend Bunny Pounds, founder of Christians Engaged, to talk about an extraordinary movement leading up to America's 250th birthday: a seven-day, Genesis-to-Revelation public reading of the Bible in Washington, D.C. This isn't just an event—it's a call to repentance, revival, and courageous Christian engagement. We talk about why biblical literacy matters, how God's Word shapes families and nations, and why now is the time for believers to get off the bench and stand with clarity and conviction. You're going to be encouraged.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!BRAVE Books | heidibrave.comLifestone Ministries | Lifestoneministries.com/heidiEquipping The Persecuted Coffee | ETPcoffee.comShow mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

The radiant and revolutionary Sonya Renee Taylor joins us to dive deep into astrology, in a conversation that will leave you feeling empowered, braver, and wiser. Sonya illuminates:  - How astrology can return us to the wisdom that was ours all along;  - How understanding our charts can help us eliminate suffering (the space between the knowing and the doing); and - What Glennon and Abby's charts say about the way they see the world and themselves.  If you've ever asked yourself, “Why am I the way I am?”—this conversation is for you.   Come back for part two on Thursday to hear Sonya read Amanda's chart—and to hear Glennon, Abby, and Amanda reflect on how this conversation has changed their lives.  About Sonya:  Sonya Renee Taylor is a New York Times best-selling author of seven books, transformational thought leader, world-renowned activist, artist, and founder of the international movement The Body Is Not An Apology. She is podcast host, sought-after speaker and new world midwife. She is also an intuitive astrologer helping to decipher our unique soul work through the planets. Her work has reached millions of people by exploring the intersections of identity, healing, and social justice using a radical self-love framework. She continues to write, create, speak, teach, and transform lives globally.

In the spring, Edward Brandon Becham was caring for his dying wife. He was also among hundreds of thousands of federal workers weighing whether to abandon public service. Donald Trump had taken office vowing to slash the federal bureaucracy, then entrusted the task to billionaire Elon Musk and a newly created cost-cutting team called the Department of Government Efficiency. In a matter of months, Musk and his U.S. DOGE Service wiped out hundreds of thousands of jobs, billions of dollars in spending and the job security that once distinguished government work.Of America's 2.4 million federal workers, nearly 4 in 10 registered to vote had, like Becham, cast ballots for Trump, according to a Washington Post-Ipsos poll. But as the days passed, Becham was becoming convinced that the Trump administration's treatment of government employees — large-scale firings, emails he saw as harassing and strict return-to-office mandates — was wrongheaded and cruel. If he was unable to resign, Brandon would be required to report to a federal building in Las Vegas more than 70 miles away. Round-trip, it would cost him three hours a day with his three children, for whom he would soon be the only parent and sole provider.Becham felt as though he was witnessing two painful deaths: his wife's, of course, but also that of his career. In his darkest moments, Brandon turned to his Bible — and next to it, his leather-bound diary.This story follows Becham and his family for a week as he navigated his feelings about his wife, family, his career and Trump.Hannah Natanson reported and narrated the piece. Bishop Sand composed music and produced audio.Subscribe to The Washington Post here.