Podcasts about rediscovering

The MAHA Lowdown with Jeff Louderback – Ruth Ann Zimmerman's homesteading journey shows how gardening, canning, and local food revive memory, discipline, and responsibility. Her story encourages families to question convenience, reconnect with soil and seasons, and build healthier habits through practical skills, honest food choices, and stronger ties to home, neighbors, and community traditions...

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 4060: Michael Mehlberg explores how adulthood often dulls our natural curiosity and sense of wonder, and suggests that reclaiming it starts with asking more questions. By keeping a discovery journal to capture and investigate those questions, listeners can cultivate continuous learning, deepen their understanding of the world, and enrich their daily experiences. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://michaelmehlberg.com/blog/2015/5/29/discovery-journal Quotes to ponder: "It's time to admit what we don't know." "Recognizing our inexperience lets us breath in a fresh perspective." "It is as important to seek answers as it is to find those questions that inspire us." Episode references: Evernote: https://evernote.com/ Bullet Journal: https://bulletjournal.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Orlando joins Something For Everybody this week. Ben is the creator of Midnight Library of Baseball.  In this episode, Ben shares his journey from childhood to becoming a therapist and baseball enthusiast, exploring the healing power of nature, the importance of fun in sports, and the stories behind his Midnight Library of Baseball podcast and upcoming novel. -

"Even though we're so diverse, we're all the same. We're all longing for the same thing — to belong, have a purpose in life, to understand why we are here on this planet." — Sonia Daccarett ABOUT THIS EPISODE Sonia Daccarett is a writer and communications professional born in Colombia to a Christian Palestinian father and a Jewish mother. She holds an undergraduate degree in journalism from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and a master's in international and public affairs from Columbia University. For more than two decades she worked on strategic communications for corporate and nonprofit clients. Her debut memoir, The Roots of the Guava Tree: Growing Up Jewish and Arab in Colombia, explores identity, belonging, and coming of age against the backdrop of 1980s Colombia. Mike and Sonia discuss how a casual memoir-writing class turned into a book, the challenge of writing childhood scenes in the voice of a child, navigating a multicultural identity in a homogenous society, and why she wanted to offer a first-person account of what ordinary Colombians endured during the country's violent 1980s. --- KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. A book that wasn't meant to be a book. Sonia enrolled in a memoir-writing class during a quieter chapter of her life, fell in love with the genre, and accumulated pages before realizing the recurring themes — identity, diaspora, family — could form a cohesive narrative. 2. Retraining the writing brain. After two decades of press releases and corporate communications, Sonia had to relearn scene, dialogue, and narrative writing — breaking free of the "five W's, tell it all on one page" mindset. 3. Writing in the child's voice was the breakthrough. The manuscript initially felt flat when told entirely from her mid-50s perspective. Switching to first person as a four-, six-, or fifteen-year-old brought the memories alive — though it meant extensive rewriting. 4. Rediscovering parents as complex people. One of the book's biggest gifts was moving beyond the unidimensional way children see adults and understanding her parents and grandparents as people navigating their own immigrant struggles. 5. A utopian experiment in identity. Her parents deliberately raised their children without religious labels or ethnic identifiers — a noble dream that left Sonia feeling identity-less in a society that expected you to know who you were. 6. A hidden diaspora. Most people don't know that a large Christian Arab population emigrated from the Ottoman Empire to Colombia in the 1910s, or that Jewish communities thrived in Latin America. Sonia wanted to broaden mainstream narratives about where Jews and Arabs live. 7. Colombia's 1980s through ordinary eyes. Beyond the Netflix portrayals of Pablo Escobar, the book offers a first-person account of what civil war between government, guerrillas, and cartels felt like for everyday families — the kidnappings, the fear, the impossible choices. 8. The power of a writing partner. After many cycles of throwing the manuscript into a metaphorical drawer, Sonia credits her Polish writing partner and her husband for pushing her to finish — proof that external accountability matters for memoirists. GET THE BOOK The Roots of the Guava Tree: Growing Up Jewish and Arab in Colombia by Sonia Daccarett Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aYCCx1 Buy on Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647429409 CONNECT WITH SONIA Website: soniadaccarett.com Instagram: @soniadaccarettauthor CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST Mike Carlon | Uncorking a Story Website: uncorkingastory.com YouTube: @uncorkingastory Instagram: @uncorkingastory Facebook: Uncorking a Story TikTok: @uncorkingastory Twitter/X: @uncorkingastory LinkedIn: Uncorking a Story Subscribe & Leave a Review — It helps more readers and writers find the show! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/uncorking-a-story/id563636205 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5HZiAEtFlhAzk60Z4eAkhY RSS Feed: https://feeds.megaphone.fm/uncorkingastory --- Uncorking a Story is produced by Mike Carlon. New episodes drop every Tuesday. #SoniaDaccarett #RootsOfTheGuavaTree #Colombia #Memoir #JewishIdentity #Palestinian #MulticulturalIdentity #Diaspora #LatinAmerica #Colombia1980s #ImmigrantStory #MemoirWriting #AuthorInterview #BookPodcast #UncorkingAStory #WritingCommunity #Nonfiction #CulturalIdentity #JewishAndArab #BookRecommendations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 4060: Michael Mehlberg explores how adulthood often dulls our natural curiosity and sense of wonder, and suggests that reclaiming it starts with asking more questions. By keeping a discovery journal to capture and investigate those questions, listeners can cultivate continuous learning, deepen their understanding of the world, and enrich their daily experiences. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://michaelmehlberg.com/blog/2015/5/29/discovery-journal Quotes to ponder: "It's time to admit what we don't know." "Recognizing our inexperience lets us breath in a fresh perspective." "It is as important to seek answers as it is to find those questions that inspire us." Episode references: Evernote: https://evernote.com/ Bullet Journal: https://bulletjournal.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do we counter narratives of division with justice and care? In marking Pride & Father's Day, Hayley discusses how we can look to the fluid and embodied nature of the Holy Spirit to guide us in participating in the world. (Image from Homebrewed Christianity's Rediscovering the Spirit)Join our live chat! https://discord.gg/MNXJSM8New here? http://brownlinechurch.org/connectResources http://brownlinechurch.org/resourcesLinkTree https://linktr.ee/brownlinechurch Donate http://brownlinechurch.org/donate

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 4060: Michael Mehlberg explores how adulthood often dulls our natural curiosity and sense of wonder, and suggests that reclaiming it starts with asking more questions. By keeping a discovery journal to capture and investigate those questions, listeners can cultivate continuous learning, deepen their understanding of the world, and enrich their daily experiences. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://michaelmehlberg.com/blog/2015/5/29/discovery-journal Quotes to ponder: "It's time to admit what we don't know." "Recognizing our inexperience lets us breath in a fresh perspective." "It is as important to seek answers as it is to find those questions that inspire us." Episode references: Evernote: https://evernote.com/ Bullet Journal: https://bulletjournal.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do we counter narratives of division with justice and care? In marking Pride & Father's Day, Hayley discusses how we can look to the fluid and embodied nature of the Holy Spirit to guide us in participating in the world. (Image from Homebrewed Christianity's Rediscovering the Spirit)Join our live chat! https://discord.gg/MNXJSM8New here? http://brownlinechurch.org/connectResources http://brownlinechurch.org/resourcesLinkTree https://linktr.ee/brownlinechurch Donate http://brownlinechurch.org/donate

What if many of us have been taught to read the Bible in a way it was never meant to be read? In this special live event recorded by Upper House, BibleProject co-founder Tim Mackie returns to Madison — the city where he earned his PhD in Hebrew Bible and Jewish Studies at UW–Madison and pastored at Blackhawk Church — to share the story behind one of the most widely used Bible-teaching resources in the world.Tim traces the origins of BibleProject to a coffee-shop conversation with his old college friend Jon Collins, a successful maker of animated explainer videos who had quietly become a “post-Bible Christian.” Their shared question — how do you engage Scripture well? — became the heartbeat of the project. Tim contrasts the “reference book” Bible many of us inherited (turn to the right verse, find the answer) with a richer vision of Scripture as ancient Jewish literary art designed to form wise, mature human beings over a lifetime.Along the way, he unpacks seven core convictions that have guided BibleProject from the beginning — three about where the Bible comes from, and four about what it is for — closing with the practice of meditation (the Hebrew hagah) and an invitation to try again with Scripture, whatever your history with it.Whether you've loved the Bible, struggled with it, or aren't sure what to make of it, this conversation offers a fresh invitation to see Scripture as a unified, beautiful, and transformative story that leads to Jesus.The Seven Convictions (At a Glance)Where the Bible is from:Collaborative literature — human authors and God's Spirit meeting, not passive dictation.Unified literature — one interconnected story leading to Jesus.Ancient literature — written for us, but not to us; context matters.What the Bible is for:Messianic literature — every theme sets up and finds fulfillment in Jesus.Communal literature — designed to be read aloud together over a lifetime.Wisdom literature — forming us to discern good from bad, not just memorize answers.Meditation literature — hagah: slow, repeated reading that rewards a lifetime of return.About the GuestTim Mackie is co-founder and lead scholar of BibleProject. He holds a PhD in Hebrew Bible and Jewish Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a degree in theology from Western Seminary in Portland. His research focused on the manuscript history of the Bible and the formation of the biblical canon — including his dissertation on the book of Ezekiel, with particular attention to the Septuagint and Dead Sea Scrolls. After years of ministry as a local-church pastor (including at Madison's Blackhawk Church and later Door of Hope in Portland) and as a professor at Western Seminary, Tim now serves as lead scholar and creative director at BibleProject. He lives in Portland with his wife, Jessica, and their two sons.https://bibleproject.com/ Send us Fan MailCONNECT WITH USSubscribe to The UpWords Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and visit slbf.org/studio to learn more about our work at the intersection of faith, the academy, and the marketplace.This episode was created by the SLBF STUDIO at Upper House.Produced by Daniel Johnson and Dave ConourEdited by Dave Conour

This week on Australia Wide, Brisbane correspondent Fumiko Nagashima shares her experience of running the Brisbane Marathon for the first time earlier this month, and reflects on the charm of Brisbane that she rediscovered while sightseeing with family members who were visiting from Japan. - 今週の「オーストラリアワイド」では、ブリスベンのリポーター、長島布美子さんが、今月初挑戦したブリスベンマラソンについて、また遊びにきた家族との観光を通じて改め実感した、ブリスベンの魅力などを話してくれました。Listen to SBS Japanese Audio on Tue, Thu and Fri from 1pm on SBS 3. Replays from 10pm on Tue, Thu and Sat on SBS1. Listen to past stories from our podcast. Download the free SBS Audio App and don't forget to visit SBS Japanese Facebook and Instagram page! - SBSの日本語放送は火木金の午後１時からSBS3で生放送！火木土の夜10時からはおやすみ前にSBS1で再放送が聞けます。SBS日本語放送ポッドキャストから過去のストーリーを聞くこともできます。無料でダウンロードできるSBS Audio Appもどうぞ。SBS 日本語放送のFacebookとInstagramもお忘れなく。

Fluent Fiction - Danish: Unveiling Nordic Magic: Rediscovering Heritage at Sankt Hans Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2026-06-22-22-34-02-da Story Transcript:Da: Frederiksborg Slot skal vise sig i al sin sommerskønhed denne Sankt Hans aften.En: Frederiksborg Slot will reveal itself in all its summer beauty this Sankt Hans evening.Da: Solen er allerede ved at gå ned bag horisonten, og dens lys reflekteres i den stille sø omkring slottet.En: The sun is already setting behind the horizon, and its light is reflected in the calm lake surrounding the castle.Da: Astrid står ved bredden, spændt på aftenens begivenheder.En: Astrid stands by the shore, excited for the evening's events.Da: Hun indånder den lune luft og mærker duften af nyslået græs og roser fra de omliggende haver.En: She inhales the warm air and senses the scent of freshly cut grass and roses from the surrounding gardens.Da: Astrid er rejst gennem Danmark for at finde forbindelsen til sin danske arv.En: Astrid has traveled through Danmark to find the connection to her Danish heritage.Da: Hun er en ung historiker, fascineret af nordisk folklore, men føler sig ofte lidt fjern fra sin kultur.En: She is a young historian, fascinated by Nordic folklore, but often feels a bit distant from her culture.Da: Hendes gamle ven, Mikkel, står ved hendes side.En: Her old friend, Mikkel, stands by her side.Da: Han er opvokset med danske traditioner, men har en mere moderne tilgang til dem.En: He was raised with Danish traditions but has a more modern approach to them.Da: Mikkel drømmer om at besøge Tivoli og de mange caféer i København, men Astrid har insisteret på, at de deltager i Sankt Hans festen på Frederiksborg.En: Mikkel dreams of visiting Tivoli and the many cafés in København, but Astrid has insisted that they attend the Sankt Hans celebration at Frederiksborg.Da: "Jeg forstår bare ikke hvorfor vi skulle herud," siger Mikkel.En: "I just don't understand why we had to come out here," says Mikkel.Da: "Hvorfor ikke noget mere...En: "Why not something more...Da: nutidigt?"En: contemporary?"Da: Astrid smiler og peger mod slottet, der nu er oplyst af blussende fakler.En: Astrid smiles and points toward the castle, now illuminated by blazing torches.Da: "Der er noget magisk over denne aften.En: "There's something magical about this evening.Da: Måske vil du se, hvorfor det betyder noget."En: Maybe you will see why it matters."Da: Da skumringen falder, begynder menneskene at samles om et stort bål på slotspladsen.En: As dusk falls, people begin to gather around a large bonfire in the castle courtyard.Da: Flammer stiger mod himlen, mens lyden af glade stemmer og folkemusik fylder luften.En: Flames rise toward the sky, while the sound of cheerful voices and folk music fills the air.Da: Astrid ser med glimtene øjne på dansen, der tager form.En: Astrid watches with sparkling eyes the dance that takes shape.Da: Mænd og kvinder, unge og gamle, bevæger sig i en gammeldags ringdans, der fortæller historier fra en tid, mange næsten havde glemt.En: Men and women, young and old, move in an old-fashioned ring dance, telling stories from a time many had almost forgotten.Da: Pludselig ændrer musikken karakter.En: Suddenly, the music changes.Da: En ældre mand, klædt i traditionelt tøj, træder frem og fortæller en historie om slotsspøgelser og forsvundne konger, en legende som Astrid aldrig har hørt før.En: An older man, dressed in traditional attire, steps forward and tells a story about castle ghosts and lost kings, a legend Astrid has never heard before.Da: Mikkel står helt stille, hans skepsis erstattet af fascination.En: Mikkel stands completely still, his skepticism replaced by fascination.Da: Han lytter intenst, fanget i eventyrets magi.En: He listens intently, captivated by the magic of the tale.Da: Bålet brænder lystigt videre, og som historien afsluttes, mødes Astrids og Mikkels blikke.En: The bonfire continues to burn brightly, and as the story concludes, Astrid's and Mikkel's eyes meet.Da: Hun kan se, at noget i ham har ændret sig.En: She can see that something in him has changed.Da: "Jeg tror, jeg forstår det nu," siger Mikkel stille.En: "I think I understand it now," says Mikkel quietly.Da: "Der er en skønhed i disse historier og traditioner.En: "There is a beauty in these stories and traditions.Da: De er en del af os."En: They are a part of us."Da: De står sammen, betagede af flammernes dans.En: They stand together, mesmerized by the dance of the flames.Da: Astrid føler en varme i sit hjerte, en ny fundet selvsikkerhed omkring sin kultur.En: Astrid feels a warmth in her heart, a newfound confidence about her culture.Da: Samtidig erkender Mikkel værdien af at holde fast i fortiden, selv i en moderne verden.En: At the same time, Mikkel acknowledges the value of holding onto the past, even in a modern world.Da: Senere, da natten sænker sig over slotshaverne, aftaler de, at resten af deres rejse skal indeholde både traditioner og nye oplevelser.En: Later, as night descends over the castle gardens, they agree that the rest of their journey should include both traditions and new experiences.Da: Midsommerens magi har bundet dem tættere sammen, og fremtiden i Danmark ser både lys og eventyrlig ud.En: The magic of midsummer has bonded them closer, and the future in Danmark looks both bright and adventurous. Vocabulary Words:reveal: visebeauty: skønhedhorizon: horisontshore: bredinhales: indåndersurrounding: omkringheritage: arvhistorian: historikerfascinated: fascineretfolklore: folkloretraditions: traditionerinsisted: insisteretcontemporary: nutidigtilluminated: oplystblazing: blussendedusk: skumringcourtyard: slotspladsring dance: ringdansattire: tøjghosts: spøgelserskepticism: skepsisfascination: fascinationcaptivated: fangetconcludes: afsluttesmesmerized: betagedeconfidence: selvsikkerhedacknowledges: erkenderdescends: sænkerbonded: bundetadventurous: eventyrlig

What if travel in retirement wasn't about seeing more places—but about living more fully?In this episode of Beyond Retirement, Jacquie Doucette sits down with Andrew Motiwalla, founder of The Good Life Abroad, to talk about a style of retirement travel that's changing how people 55+ experience the world: slow travel with built-in community.Andrew shares how his Peace Corps experience in Honduras planted the seed for month-long stays that move you out of “tourist mode” and into real life; routines, local cafés, cultural events, and friendships that form naturally when you stay long enough to be recognized. You'll hear why The Good Life Abroad is not a tour, how their cohort model works, and how community managers create light, optional touchpoints (like cooking classes, walking tours, and local experiences) that help you feel supported without being scheduled to death.You'll also love Andrew's perspective on “joyspan”—the idea that we can intentionally expand the years of joy, purpose, and connection in our lives. For many retirees, identity shifts can feel disorienting. Andrew explains how immersive travel can help you grow through learning, connect through shared values, and adapt to new experiences, often leaving you with more confidence and a bigger sense of possibility than when you arrived.Key Topics CoveredWhy slow, immersive travel creates deeper learning: Why a month in one place creates a completely different travel experienceCommunity as a foundation for joy in retirement: What travelers feel after week 1, week 3, and week 4 of immersive living & why community can be the most surprising (and meaningful) part of the experienceIdentity shifts after leaving work: Rediscovering purpose through curiosity and explorationConfidence gained from adapting to new environments: Why small discomforts lead to growth & how The Good Life Abroad supports safety, comfort, and independence (55+)Travel as a test‑drive for expatriate life: “Expat-curious” scouting trips to test-drive a city before moving abroadWho this style of travel is best for: (hint: curiosity matters)How slow travel affects your budget: Ballpark pricing for a month-long program and what's includedListener OfferBeyond Retirement listeners can use the referral code BEYONDRETIREMENT when booking with The Good Life Abroad to receive an exclusive listener discount.Connect with Andrew:Via email: Andrew@thegoodlifeabroad.comOn the web: https://thegoodlifeabroad.comREADY TO RAMP UP YOUR RETIREMENT JOURNEY?Start here: https://beyondretirement.ca/start-here/Book a FREE call with Jacquie: https://calendly.com/jacquiedoucette/discoveryCheck out the Beyond Retirement Library: https://placeforbooks.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Magick Kitchen Podcast, Leandra Witchwood and Elyse Welles welcome returning guest Ivo Dominguez Jr for a practical, thoughtful conversation on protection magic. Together, they explore spiritual immunity, cleansing, shielding, warding, miasma, sacred space, and the difference between grounded protection and overprotection.Ivo shares accessible wisdom on everyday spiritual hygiene, how to clear energy in simple ways, why protection magic is really a whole family of practices, and how to choose the right tool for the job. The conversation also touches on selective shielding, the evil eye, spirit relationships, salt, Epsom fire, house wards, and why claiming your space matters.This episode is a reminder that protection in witchcraft does not have to be fear-based or overly complicated. It can be practical, adaptive, and woven into ordinary life. Learn more with Ivo Dominguez Jr. at https://www.ivodominguezjr.com/Join monthly coven classes and experiences.   A Nine-Week Live Online Small Group Immersion that sets you on the Priestess Path.  The Healing Our Feminine Wounding Immersive is a sacred retreat devoted to untangling inherited shame, silence, and survival patterns carried in the feminine body. Through ritual, reflection, and land based temple arts, we work gently and honestly with what has been passed down so that a truer, steadier way of being can emerge. Sacred Wild Wednesdays is a live weekly gathering with Elyse Welles featuring tarot readings for participants, magickal musings, and grounded spiritual teaching. Held in real time, this space offers guidance, perspective, and connection for those walking the Path of the Sacred Wild.Support the Podcast!✨FREE Business Witch Grimoire - 5 Business Witch practices with step-by-step guidance. Get your copy: https://leandrawitchwood.com/ 

We talk about why real change is not self-reinvention but renewal through the Holy Spirit. We unpack how attention, habits, repentance, and time work together as God forms us into people who actually live what we believe. • the difference between trying harder and being renewed • sanctification as working out what God puts within us • exposure and attention as the hidden forces shaping our lives • repentance and belief as thinking right plus doing right • why emotional highs fade and practice builds stability • appetite following diet and how habits reshape desire • refusing to label bondage as normal • willpower as a limited resource and the Spirit as real power • confession, repentance, and practical next steps through church community • being formed over time rather than in a moment 

Sunday June 14, 2026 || Rediscovering the Love of God || Pastor Hilda Henderson

Are your private prayers being overshadowed by ministry demands? How can entering your room, closing the door, and praying to your Father transform your personal communion with God?

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Rediscovering Roots: A Journey from Office to Inti Raymi Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2026-06-18-07-38-19-es Story Transcript:Es: Luis estaba en su escritorio, rodeado de pilas de papeles y la luz fría de su computadora.En: Luis was at his desk, surrounded by piles of papers and the cold light of his computer.Es: Trabajaba como gerente de proyectos en una empresa muy importante en Santiago, Chile.En: He worked as a project manager at a very important company in Santiago, Chile.Es: La ciudad estaba vibrante como siempre, llena de coches y personas que se movían rápidamente por las aceras.En: The city was vibrant as always, full of cars and people moving quickly along the sidewalks.Es: Pero Luis solo podía pensar en una cosa: el festival de Inti Raymi en Cusco.En: But Luis could only think of one thing: the Inti Raymi festival in Cusco.Es: Desde pequeño, había escuchado historias fascinantes de sus abuelos sobre el festival, un homenaje al sol que encendía las almas de quienes lo presenciaban.En: Since he was a child, he had heard fascinating stories from his grandparents about the festival, a tribute to the sun that ignited the souls of those who witnessed it.Es: Era invierno en el hemisferio sur y la oficina parecía más fría por la presión de los plazos.En: It was winter in the southern hemisphere, and the office seemed colder due to the pressure of deadlines.Es: Luis tenía un proyecto urgente, entregas que alcanzar antes de poder permitirse el lujo de soñar con cualquier otra cosa.En: Luis had an urgent project, deadlines to meet before he could afford the luxury of dreaming about anything else.Es: Pero había un anhelo en su corazón que no podía ignorar.En: But there was a longing in his heart that he could not ignore.Es: Sus raíces lo llamaban, y cada día en la oficina parecía desconectarlo más de su verdadero ser.En: His roots were calling him, and each day in the office seemed to disconnect him more from his true self.Es: Un día, mientras Luis estaba sumergido en sus planes y gráficos, llegó Sofía, su colega y amiga.En: One day, while Luis was immersed in his plans and charts, Sofía, his colleague and friend, arrived.Es: Ella notó la tensión en su frente y le ofreció un café caliente.En: She noticed the tension on his forehead and offered him a hot coffee.Es: "Luis, te ves cansado.En: "Luis, you look tired.Es: ¿Todo bien?En: Is everything okay?"Es: ", le preguntó con simpatía.En: she asked sympathetically.Es: "Sí, estoy bien.En: "Yes, I'm fine.Es: Solo mucho trabajo.En: Just a lot of work.Es: Pero quiero ir a Cusco para el Inti Raymi", respondió Luis con sinceridad.En: But I want to go to Cusco for the Inti Raymi," Luis replied sincerely.Es: Sofía sonrió, entendiendo la importancia de esa tradición.En: Sofía smiled, understanding the importance of that tradition.Es: "Debes ir.En: "You should go.Es: Es una oportunidad única.En: It's a unique opportunity.Es: Podrías regresar sintiéndote renovado."En: You could come back feeling renewed."Es: Pero la realidad era cruel.En: But reality was harsh.Es: El festival coincidía con una presentación crucial del proyecto.En: The festival coincided with a crucial project presentation.Es: Luis sabía que era un riesgo dejar sus responsabilidades de lado, especialmente con Carlos, su exigente jefe, atento a cada movimiento.En: Luis knew it was a risk to set aside his responsibilities, especially with Carlos, his demanding boss, watching his every move.Es: Decidido a no rendirse tan fácilmente, Luis organizó su viaje.En: Determined not to give up so easily, Luis organized his trip.Es: Pero cuando llegó al aeropuerto, recibió la noticia que temía: su vuelo estaba retrasado indefinidamente por mal clima.En: But when he arrived at the airport, he received the news he dreaded: his flight was delayed indefinitely due to bad weather.Es: Con el corazón apesadumbrado por la incertidumbre, Luis se sentó en una banca, rodeado de viajeros impacientes.En: With his heart heavy from uncertainty, Luis sat on a bench, surrounded by impatient travelers.Es: El aeropuerto estaba lleno de murmullos y anuncios por altavoces, pero todo parecía distante.En: The airport was full of murmurs and announcements over loudspeakers, but everything seemed distant.Es: En su mente, solo había silencio y dudas.En: In his mind, there was only silence and doubt.Es: De pronto, un mensaje encendió su teléfono.En: Suddenly, a message lit up his phone.Es: Era de Carlos.En: It was from Carlos.Es: "Luis, sé lo importante que es esto para ti.En: "Luis, I know how important this is for you.Es: Has trabajado duro.En: You've worked hard.Es: Ve, disfruta de tus raíces y vuelve cuando el alma esté completa."En: Go, enjoy your roots and come back when your soul is complete."Es: Luis no podía creerlo.En: Luis couldn't believe it.Es: Leyó el mensaje varias veces, sintiendo una mezcla de alivio y gratitud.En: He read the message several times, feeling a mix of relief and gratitude.Es: No todos tenían un jefe como Carlos, capaz de ver más allá del trabajo y entender el valor personal.En: Not everyone had a boss like Carlos, capable of seeing beyond work and understanding personal value.Es: Finalmente, Luis llegó a Cusco justo a tiempo para el festival.En: Finally, Luis arrived in Cusco just in time for the festival.Es: El sol brillaba intensamente en las alturas andinas, y los colores y sonidos del Inti Raymi lo envolvieron con una calidez inesperada.En: The sun shone brightly in the Andean heights, and the colors and sounds of the Inti Raymi enveloped him with an unexpected warmth.Es: Allí, entre las celebraciones, encontró no solo sus raíces, sino también una parte olvidada de sí mismo.En: There, among the celebrations, he found not only his roots but also a forgotten part of himself.Es: De regreso en la oficina, Luis se sintió diferente.En: Back in the office, Luis felt different.Es: Apreciaba su trabajo más que nunca, pero también comprendía la importancia de sus orígenes.En: He appreciated his work more than ever but also understood the importance of his origins.Es: Con un equilibrio renovado, supo que podía ser tanto un buen profesional como una persona fiel a sus tradiciones.En: With a renewed balance, he knew he could be both a good professional and a person faithful to his traditions. Vocabulary Words:pile: la pilasidewalk: la acerato ignite: encendertribute: el homenajedeadline: el plazopressure: la presiónlonging: el anheloto disconnect: desconectarimmersion: la inmersiónsincerity: la sinceridadopportunity: la oportunidadtradition: la tradiciónreality: la realidadcruel: cruelresponsibility: la responsabilidadboss: el jefeindefinite: indefinidamenteweather: el climauncertainty: la incertidumbreannouncement: el anunciogratitude: la gratitudto appreciate: apreciarroot: la raízheight: la alturawarmth: la calidezto envelop: envolverbalance: el equilibrioorigin: el origenprofessional: el profesionalproject manager: el gerente de proyectos

When everything around a church is changing, how can it rediscover who God has called it to be? In this episode we welcome Rev. Dr. Ryan Jackson, Senior Pastor of the Capital Church near Raleigh, North Carolina, to talk about his experience in the CPT's first Church Identity Cohort.Ryan reflects on 17 years of ministry through seasons of change, staff transitions, and post-pandemic challenges that prompted his church to revisit foundational questions of identity and mission. We discuss the connection between pastoral and ecclesial identity, the role of theological reflection in church life, and the importance of forming leaders who can faithfully guide congregations into the future.We also explore the value of mentoring, cross-denominational dialogue, and collaborative discernment as churches seek a deeper understanding of who God has called them to be.Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or ministry team member, this episode offers practical encouragement for leading with clarity, conviction, and a strong sense of church identity.Join us at the CPT Conference

Have you ever felt disconnected from your singing voice—even though you still love to sing? In this episode, we're exploring a different way of thinking about singing. One that goes beyond practice, performance, technique, improvement, and achievement. I share reflections from my own creative life lately, including singing while doing dishes, gardening, playing with my children, and following little melodies as they appear throughout the day. These ordinary moments have reminded me that some of the most meaningful singing doesn't happen on stage or in a practice room—it happens in the midst of everyday life. We'll talk about: reconnecting with your singing voice the difference between the critical ear and the creative ear singing beyond practice and performance overcoming perfectionism and self-judgment finding more joy and play in singing everyday singing as a creative practice coming back to your "why" as a singer If you've been feeling out of practice, disconnected from your voice, or unsure how to get back into singing, this episode offers a gentle invitation to reconnect with singing in a way that feels natural, meaningful, and alive.

Revitalization Rewards found in this episode:1. Who lives around us now?2. What are the greatest needs in our neighborhood?3. How can our church resources become tools for ministry again?4. What new approaches can help us build genuine relationships?

What Are You Trying to Carry That You're Allowed to Put Down? What happens when you stop carrying things that were never yours to hold in the first place? In this solo episode, Stephanie Mitton reflects on the beliefs, expectations, and responsibilities she's been learning to put down. From motherhood and leadership to health, body image, and boundaries, she shares the lessons helping her come back to herself after years of putting everyone else's needs first. This episode is a reminder that taking care of yourself is not selfish. It's necessary. You do not have to abandon yourself to keep everyone else comfortable. This episode covers: Why your body does not have to be perfect for you to fully participate in life Learning to trust yourself as a leader and own the space you've built The ongoing work of maintaining your identity beyond motherhood Why your needs, happiness, and well-being matter too Letting people be disappointed instead of constantly disappointing yourself The power of asking for help and being honest when you're struggling Prioritizing your health before a crisis forces you to Rediscovering joy, fun, and the parts of yourself that may have been pushed aside How to identify what you're carrying and decide what you're ready to put down If you've been feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or disconnected from yourself, this conversation offers a gentle invitation to pause and ask: Is this really mine to carry? Because women do not have to keep putting themselves last and calling it love.https://www.patreon.com/womendontdothat Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/womendontdothat/ TikTok- http://www.tiktok.com/@womendontdothat Blog- https://www.womendontdothat.com/blog Podcast- https://www.womendontdothat.com/podcast Newsletter- https://www.beaconnorthstrategies.com/contactwww.womendontdothat.com YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@WOMENdontDOthat How to find Stephanie Mitton: Twitter/X- https://twitter.com/StephanieMitton LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniemitton/ beaconnorthstrategies.com TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@stephmitton Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemitton/ Interested in sponsorship? Contact us at hello@womendontdothat.com Produced by Duke & Castle Our Latest Blog: https://www.womendontdothat.com/post/i-don-t-do-resolutions-i-do-this-perfect-for-busy-women Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As America approaches its 250th birthday, visitors from around the world are getting an up-close look at the United States—and many are discovering that what they've been told about America doesn't match reality. Todd explores the reactions of World Cup fans who are experiencing American hospitality, small-town culture, road trips, sports traditions, and everyday life firsthand. Why are so many surprised by what they find? Todd discusses the gap between America's reputation and its reality, the influence of media and culture on global perceptions, and why gratitude for the freedoms and opportunities available in this country still matters. Plus, reflections on UFC 250 at the White House and the importance of appreciating the nation we call home.

As America approaches its 250th birthday, visitors from around the world are getting an up-close look at the United States—and many are discovering that what they've been told about America doesn't match reality. Todd explores the reactions of World Cup fans who are experiencing American hospitality, small-town culture, road trips, sports traditions, and everyday life firsthand. Why are so many surprised by what they find? Todd discusses the gap between America's reputation and its reality, the influence of media and culture on global perceptions, and why gratitude for the freedoms and opportunities available in this country still matters. Plus, reflections on UFC 250 at the White House and the importance of appreciating the nation we call home.

Retirement is often framed as a financial milestone—but the deeper transition is psychological. When work ends, the identity that came with it often disappears as well. In this solo episode, Jacquie reflects on her conversation with Michael Kay about the idea of “Chapter X”—the stage of life where the structure of career gives way to something far more open-ended.What happens when the ladder of achievement disappears? How do you redefine success when productivity is no longer the main measure of value? And how can curiosity become the compass for designing a meaningful life after work?This episode explores the identity shift that many retirees experience and offers a simple but powerful question that can help you begin writing your next chapter.Key Topics Covered1. Retirement Is More Than a Financial TransitionWhy retirement planning often ignores the identity shiftHow work provides structure, meaning, and social identity2. The Identity GapWhat happens when your job title disappearsWhy high achievers often struggle most with this transition3. The Concept of “Chapter X”Retirement as an undefined chapter of explorationWhy uncertainty can actually be an opportunity4. Reclaiming Beginner's MindWhy curiosity matters more than expertise after retirementLearning to try new things without pressure to master them5. Redefining SuccessMoving from productivity-based identity to meaning-based livingDesigning days around values instead of expectationsReflection Questions:If someone asked who you are today—without referencing your career—how would you answer?What parts of your identity were shaped by your work?Where could curiosity lead you in this next stage of life?What does success look like for you now?What small experiment could you try this month?READY TO RAMP UP YOUR RETIREMENT JOURNEY?Start here: https://beyondretirement.ca/start-here/Book a FREE call with Jacquie: https://calendly.com/jacquiedoucette/discoveryCheck out the Beyond Retirement Library: https://placeforbooks.com

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Rediscovering Self: Lukas's Summer Style Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2026-06-14-07-38-20-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Lukas satt vid sitt skrivbord, omsluten av skärmens ljus.En: Lukas sat at his desk, enveloped by the light of the screen.Sv: Hans ögon glödde av ansträngning.En: His eyes glowed with effort.Sv: Han jonglerade mellan projekt och deadlines, och sommarsolen utanför kallade på honom.En: He juggled between projects and deadlines, and the summer sun outside called to him.Sv: "Lukas, kom nu!En: "Lukas, come on!Sv: Vi måste köpa kläder till midsommar," ropade Astrid från hallen.En: We need to buy clothes for midsommar," shouted Astrid from the hallway.Sv: Hon var alltid spontan, alltid redo för nästa äventyr.En: She was always spontaneous, always ready for the next adventure.Sv: Lukas såg över sin axel och såg Astrid le.En: Lukas looked over his shoulder and saw Astrid smiling.Sv: Bredvid henne stod Nils, full av energi och med bus i blicken.En: Beside her stood Nils, full of energy and with mischief in his eyes.Sv: "Kom igen, vi behöver hitta något som matchar din stil," sa Nils och blinkade.En: "Come on, we need to find something that matches your style," said Nils and winked.Sv: De gav sig av till Freelancer's Home, en färgstark butik fylld med sommarens nyheter.En: They set off to Freelancer's Home, a vibrant store filled with the summer's latest arrivals.Sv: Butiken hade stora glasväggar som släppte in mängder av solljus.En: The store had large glass walls that let in plenty of sunlight.Sv: Interiören var en regnbåge av färger, och doften av ny textil fyllde luften.En: The interior was a rainbow of colors, and the scent of new textiles filled the air.Sv: Inne i butiken blev Lukas överväldigad av alla val.En: Inside the store, Lukas was overwhelmed by all the choices.Sv: Astrid drog i en ljusblå skjorta medan Nils fnissade och höll upp ett par shorts med flamingomönster.En: Astrid tugged at a light blue shirt while Nils giggled and held up a pair of shorts with a flamingo pattern.Sv: "Dessa skriker ju Lukas!"En: "These just scream Lukas!"Sv: skämtade Nils.En: joked Nils.Sv: Lukas suckade lätt osäkert.En: Lukas sighed slightly uncertainly.Sv: Han visste inte vad han ville ha.En: He didn't know what he wanted.Sv: Men medan han provade olika kläder hände något.En: But while trying on different clothes, something happened.Sv: Framför spegeln, iklädd ett linne och ett par bekväma chinos, insåg Lukas att han behövde hitta något som verkligen representerade honom.En: In front of the mirror, dressed in a tank top and a pair of comfortable chinos, Lukas realized he needed to find something that truly represented him.Sv: Han strövade vidare i butiken och hittade en färgglad skjorta med ett mönster som liknade tavlorna han brukade designa.En: He wandered further in the store and found a colorful shirt with a pattern that resembled the paintings he usually designed.Sv: Lukas log för sig själv, han kände att kläderna verkligen uttryckte vem han var - kreativ och unik.En: Lukas smiled to himself, feeling that the clothes truly expressed who he was—creative and unique.Sv: När han köpte skjortan kände han sig både nöjd och lättad.En: When he bought the shirt, he felt both satisfied and relieved.Sv: Det var en liten förändring, men den betydde mycket.En: It was a small change, but it meant a lot.Sv: Lukas lämnade butiken med en påse full av nya kläder och ett hjärta fyllt av nyfunnen självförtroende.En: Lukas left the store with a bag full of new clothes and a heart filled with newfound confidence.Sv: Han mötte upp Astrid och Nils utanför.En: He met up with Astrid and Nils outside.Sv: "Nu är du redo för midsommar!"En: "Now you're ready for midsommar!"Sv: skrattade Astrid och gav honom en kram.En: laughed Astrid and gave him a hug.Sv: Tillsammans gick de mot parken, redo att fira med kransar, dans och skratt.En: Together, they headed to the park, ready to celebrate with wreaths, dancing, and laughter.Sv: Med nya kläder och en ny insikt hoppade Lukas in i firandet.En: With new clothes and a new insight, Lukas leaped into the celebration.Sv: Han kände sig fri och, viktigast av allt, som sig själv.En: He felt free and, most importantly, like himself. Vocabulary Words:enveloped: omslutenglowed: glöddejuggled: jongleradespontaneous: spontanmischief: busvibrant: färgstarktextiles: textiloverwhelmed: överväldigadtugged: droggiggled: fnissadeunknown: okäntinsight: insiktglanced: kastade en blickmatches: matcharresembled: liknadeexpressed: uttrycktesatisfied: nöjdrelieved: lättadconfidence: självförtroendewardrobe: garderobacquire: förvärvascintillating: gnistrandecomposure: lugntraversed: vandrademiscellaneous: blandadresponsibility: ansvartransition: övergångembraced: omfamnadeenthusiasm: entusiasminquisitive: nyfiken

Fluent Fiction - Korean: A Day at Seoul's Museum: Rediscovering Art and Ourselves Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2026-06-13-22-34-01-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 서울 국립현대미술관의 문을 열고 들어서면, 지호, 민서, 소민은 여름 햇살을 느끼며 시원한 공기를 마셨습니다.En: As they entered the Seoul National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Jiho, Minseo, and Somin felt the summer sunlight and breathed in the cool air.Ko: 햇빛은 큰 유리창을 통해 들어와서 미술관 안을 환하게 밝혀 주었습니다.En: The sunlight streamed in through large glass windows, brightly illuminating the inside of the museum.Ko: 밖에는 푸른 잎들이 바람에 흔들렸습니다.En: Outside, green leaves swayed in the wind.Ko: 지호는 조용히 그림 앞에 멈춰 섰습니다.En: Jiho quietly stopped in front of a painting.Ko: 그의 마음속에는 예술에 대한 사랑과 자신의 능력에 대한 의심이 교차하고 있었습니다.En: In his mind, his love for art clashed with doubts about his own abilities.Ko: 그림을 보며 그는 다시 한번 자신의 길을 생각했습니다.En: As he looked at the painting, he once again contemplated his path.Ko: 민서는 다양한 그림과 조각에 둘러싸여 즐거웠습니다.En: Minseo was delighted, surrounded by a variety of paintings and sculptures.Ko: 그녀의 눈은 한국의 현대미술에 대한 호기심으로 반짝였습니다.En: Her eyes sparkled with curiosity about Korean contemporary art.Ko: 너무 많은 작품이 그녀를 끌어당겼고, 결국 길을 잃고 말았습니다.En: So many works drew her in, and eventually, she became lost.Ko: 하지만 그녀는 당황하지 않고, 박물관 직원에게 도움을 청했습니다.En: However, she didn't panic and asked a museum staff member for help.Ko: 소민은 처음에는 압박감을 느꼈습니다.En: Somin initially felt pressured.Ko: 항상 새로운 영감을 찾으려 노력하는 그녀에게는 잠시의 여유도 사치처럼 느껴졌습니다.En: To someone like her, who was always striving to find new inspiration, even a moment of leisure felt like a luxury.Ko: 그녀는 그냥 미술을 즐기기로 마음먹었습니다.En: She decided to simply enjoy the art.Ko: 여유롭게 그림을 보기 시작한 소민은 자신도 모르게 미소를 지었습니다.En: As she leisurely began to view the paintings, she unknowingly smiled.Ko: 지호는 모네의 작품 앞에 멈춰 섰습니다.En: Jiho paused in front of a Monet piece.Ko: 그 그림은 그에게 잊었던 열정을 되살려 주었습니다.En: The painting rekindled a forgotten passion within him.Ko: 그는 조용히 그 속으로 빠져들었습니다.En: He quietly immersed himself in it.Ko: 민서는 결국 한국 전통 회화 섹션에서 눈을 반짝이며 새로운 사실을 배웠습니다.En: Minseo eventually learned new facts with sparkling eyes in the Korean traditional painting section, gaining new insights into art.Ko: 소민은 한 그림 앞에서 멈춰 섰습니다.En: Somin stopped in front of a painting.Ko: 그 그림은 그녀에게 새로운 시각을 열어 주었습니다.En: It opened up a new perspective for her.Ko: 박물관을 나온 세 명은 모두 마음이 가벼워졌습니다.En: As the three of them left the museum, they all felt lighter at heart.Ko: 지호는 예술을 향한 꿈에 대한 확신을 가졌고, 민서는 한국 문화에 대한 깊은 이해를 얻었습니다.En: Jiho felt assured of his dreams toward art, and Minseo gained a deeper understanding of Korean culture.Ko: 소민은 이제 즐겁게 일을 할 수 있을 거라 믿었습니다.En: Somin believed she could now work joyfully.Ko: 그들은 서로의 변화된 모습을 보고 미소 지었습니다.En: They smiled as they noticed the changes in each other.Ko: 이제, 서울의 여름 공기는 그들에게 새로운 활기를 불어넣었습니다.En: Now, Seoul's summer air breathed new vitality into them.Ko: 미술과 함께 했던 하루는 그들의 가슴에 깊게 남았고, 그들은 미소를 지으며 미술관을 떠났습니다.En: The day spent with art left a deep impression in their hearts, and they left the museum with smiles.Ko: 끝.En: The end. Vocabulary Words:contemporary: 현대illuminating: 밝혀 주었습니다swayed: 흔들렸습니다clashed: 교차하고contemplated: 생각했습니다sparkled: 반짝였습니다lost: 길을 잃고panicked: 당황striving: 노력하는leisure: 여유rekindled: 되살려immersed: 빠져들었습니다gaining: 얻었습니다perspective: 시각vitality: 활기impression: 남았고staff: 직원inspiration: 영감path: 길assured: 확신insights: 통찰passion: 열정comfort: 편안함enlightenment: 계몽luxury: 사치delighted: 즐거웠습니다curiosity: 호기심sparkling: 반짝이는breathed: 마셨습니다opened: 열어

If you've ever felt funny, smart, and expressive in your first language, but timid, or smaller the moment you switch to English, this conversation is for you! In this interview, I spoke with Valentina, a longtime student of mine, to talk about something almost every English learner feels but rarely has the words for: the gap between who you are and how you show up in English. We get into the difference between the language gap (knowing more than you can say) and the identity gap (not feeling like yourself), why your English behaves differently depending on the room you're in, and how letting go of who you "should" be is the thing that finally sets your voice free. This one is tender, honest, and full of permission. I loved every minute of it.

Rachael Renae, an author, artist, play and creativity enthusiast on the power of on how to prioritize play to overcome blocks, better connect with yourseves and your people, and confidently live big, fulfilling lives.  Mindset shifts to start seeing play in the everyday Guidance to help you find your version of play Strategies to turn play into a regular practice Exercises to release expectations on your creativity Get her book: Prioritize Play: Express Your Creativity, Boost Your Confidence, and Foster Deeper Connection LINKS AND RESOURCES Support the podcast by making a donation (suggested amount $15) 732-763-2576 call to leave a voicemail.  info@authenticparenting.com Send audio messages using Speakpipe. Join the Authentic Parenting Community on Facebook. Work w/Anna. Listeners get 10% off her services.  Podcast Production by Aminur

In this episode of the Smell Podcast, Katie Boateng interviews Dr. Bob Pellegrino about the book "Rediscovering Flavor: A Practical Guide for Smell Loss". You can purchase a copy of the book on Bookshop.org.

Underground, something valuable is hidden. Not oil, not mineral resources, but something more human. At dig sites across the state, archeologists are recovering pieces of our history. And at one site near Sturgis, they're uncovering the memories of women lost to time.

Send us Fan MailSuffering raises difficult questions about God, faith, and what it means to follow Jesus in a broken world. In this episode of Summer Series 2026, Tim Stewart welcomes theologian and author Dr. Kelly Kapic for an honest conversation about grief, pain, lament, and unanswered prayers.Drawing from years of academic research and personal experience caring for his wife through chronic illness, Dr. Kapic explores why Christians need to rediscover the language of lament, how we can acknowledge the realities of suffering without denying God's goodness, and why the Incarnation reveals a God who enters into our pain rather than remaining distant from it.Together, they discuss the importance of community in seasons of suffering, the relationship between forgiveness and healing, and how the Gospel offers not merely escape from this world, but participation in God's ongoing work of restoration.If you've wrestled with disappointment, loss, chronic pain, or questions about where God is in the midst of suffering, this episode offers thoughtful guidance, theological depth, and hope for the journey.In this episode:• Rediscovering lament as a faithful response to suffering• Holding together grief and God's goodness• Finding God's presence in pain through the Incarnation• Why honest faith makes room for sorrow and questions• The healing role of Christian community• Forgiveness as part of restoration and healing• Hope in the midst of grief, pain, and unanswered prayers

This episode is brought to you by Your Clockwise Week—a personalized weekly structure built around your actual life, not an ideal one. If your week feels full but not fitting, you can learn more at mikevardy.com/yourclockwiseweek.This episode marks the latest installment in PM Talks, the monthly series I do with my longtime collaborator Patrick Rhone. We've been doing this for a few years now — closing in on three seasons — and what I love most about these conversations is that they're genuinely reflective. We're not coming in with a polished take. We're working through ideas in real time, and that's exactly what makes them worthwhile.This time around, Patrick and I dove into a word that doesn't get nearly enough airtime in 2026: prudence. It's one of those terms that has been moralized, gendered, and generally squeezed out of everyday conversation. But it's also one of the nine principles in my upcoming book Productiveness, and the more I unpack it, the more convinced I am that it's something we're all practicing quietly — even when we don't call it by name.Six Discussion PointsPrudence traces back to the mid-14th century as a concept tied to intelligence, foresight, and practical wisdom — and it sits alongside justice, fortitude, and temperance as one of the four classical cardinal virtues. That's a lot of weight for a word most people associate with Dana Carvey doing George H.W. Bush.The word has faded from everyday use for a few reasons: it got moralized through its religious and philosophical associations, it became a common woman's name that then fell out of fashion, and perhaps most crucially, it got sidelined by a speed culture that has no patience for anything that feels unhurried.Prudence lives in interesting territory between "too soft" words like intentional and "too hard" words like strategic or tactical. It carries a moral dimension that neither of those fully captures, which is part of why it's so hard to replace and so easy to overlook.The connection between prudence and AI turned into one of the richest threads we pulled on. Patrick made the point that AI is fundamentally not prudent — it doesn't tolerate known unknowns well, and tends to hallucinate its way toward confident-sounding answers even on questions that science genuinely hasn't resolved (yawning being a particularly delightful example). Applying AI prudently means knowing where human judgment still has to lead.Evening routines and morning preparation came up as lived examples of prudence in action — laying out clothes the night before, prepping dinner before your brain is fully engaged, checking in with a collaborator ahead of a scheduled call. Prudence often shows up in the small, low-glamour decisions we make before we even know we'll need them.Patrick, who does circus rigging work, offered a line that I think is the most compressed definition of prudence I've heard: "Slow is smooth and smooth is fast." When you're under time pressure — two minutes to set up a flying net — the prudent approach isn't to rush. It's to move deliberately, know the order of operations, and trust that the method will get you there faster than panic will.Three Connection PointsPatrick Rhone's blog post: Thoughts on AI and the Known UnknownsRyan Holiday's video responding to Ivanka Trump's comments on stoicismMike's upcoming book Productiveness, where prudence is one of the nine core principlesPatrick and I will be back next month for PM Talks S3E7, where we're taking on a word with a lot of range: tolerance. It means something very specific in rigging and something very different in everyday conversation, and I suspect we'll cover a fair bit of ground on both fronts. In the meantime, I hope this episode gives you an excuse to bring "prudence" back into your vocabulary — and more importantly, to notice the places where you're already living it.If this episode resonated, I'm exploring ideas like these more deeply in my upcoming book, Productiveness. You can follow along as it takes shape at mikevardy.com/productiveness.

Acts 13:1-8 New International Version   13 1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. 4 The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper. 6 They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, 7 who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God. 8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith.

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Sant Joan Sparks: Rediscovering Friendship Through Poetry Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2026-06-10-07-38-20-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El sol brillava sobre els carrerons estrets del Barri Gòtic de Barcelona.En: The sun shone over the narrow streets of the Barri Gòtic of Barcelona.Ca: La primavera omplia l'aire de l'olor de flors i la brisa marinera portava un tacte suau.En: Spring filled the air with the scent of flowers, and the sea breeze carried a gentle touch.Ca: Núria passejava pels carrerons amb un somriure nerviós.En: Núria strolled through the alleyways with a nervous smile.Ca: S'acostava Sant Joan i volia trobar el regal perfecte per a en Jordi.En: Sant Joan was approaching, and she wanted to find the perfect gift for Jordi.Ca: La llibreria "Antiqua" estava amagada en una cantonada tranquil·la.En: The bookstore "Antiqua" was hidden in a quiet corner.Ca: En entrar, una campaneta va sonar suau a la porta.En: Upon entering, a small bell softly rang at the door.Ca: Els prestatges estaven plens de llibres, des de clàssics antics fins a novel·les modernes.En: The shelves were full of books, from ancient classics to modern novels.Ca: L'olor de paper vell l'abraçava mentre la llum del sol entrava pels grans finestrals, projecteant ombres suaus al terra de fusta.En: The smell of old paper embraced her as the sunlight entered through the large windows, casting soft shadows on the wooden floor.Ca: Núria era una lectora apassionada.En: Núria was a passionate reader.Ca: Sempre triava regals amb molta cura i pensava en el que diria cada llibre.En: She always chose gifts with great care and thought about what each book would say.Ca: Però avui, amb tantes opcions, se sentia aclaparada.En: But today, with so many options, she felt overwhelmed.Ca: El regal havia de ser especial, un reflex de l'amistat que compartia amb en Jordi.En: The gift had to be special, a reflection of the friendship she shared with Jordi.Ca: Volia que el llibre expressés els seus sentiments de gratitud i alegria abans de la revetlla màgica de Sant Joan.En: She wanted the book to express her feelings of gratitude and joy before the magical night of Sant Joan.Ca: Deambulava pel passadís amb dubtes quan va veure el propietari de la llibreria, el senyor Martí, un home gran amb ulleres rodones que semblava comprendre els seus dubtes.En: She wandered down the aisle with doubts when she saw the bookstore owner, Mr. Martí, an elderly man with round glasses who seemed to understand her uncertainties.Ca: "Busques alguna cosa especial?En: "Are you looking for something special?"Ca: " va preguntar amb un somriure.En: he asked with a smile.Ca: Núria va explicar les seves inquietuds.En: Núria explained her concerns.Ca: El senyor Martí va assenyalar una petita secció al costat de la finestra.En: Mr. Martí pointed to a small section by the window.Ca: "Aquí hi trobaràs un llibre de poesia catalana.En: "Here you'll find a book of Catalan poetry.Ca: Parla de l'amistat i celebració.En: It speaks of friendship and celebration.Ca: Potser és just el que cerques.En: Maybe it's just what you're looking for."Ca: "Curiosa, Núria va agafar el llibre i va fullejar les pàgines.En: Curious, Núria picked up the book and leafed through the pages.Ca: Les paraules flotaven com suau música dins el seu cap.En: The words floated like gentle music inside her head.Ca: Va prendre lloc en un racó còmode, amb una butaca de vellut, i va començar a llegir un poema en veu baixa.En: She took a seat in a comfortable corner, with a velvet armchair, and began to read a poem softly.Ca: Cada vers semblava estar escrit expressament per a ells.En: Each verse seemed to have been written expressly for them.Ca: En aquell moment, la sensació d'haver trobat el llibre perfecte l'envaí.En: At that moment, the feeling of having found the perfect book overwhelmed her.Ca: Quan Jordi va arribar, va escoltar atentament mentre Núria recitava.En: When Jordi arrived, he listened attentively as Núria recited.Ca: Les paraules van cobrir l'aire, i amb cada línia llegida, les seves ànimes s'unien més.En: The words filled the air, and with each line read, their souls united more.Ca: Els ulls d'en Jordi brillaven d'emoció.En: Jordi's eyes shone with emotion.Ca: Entenia el regal: no era el llibre, sinó el sentiment darrere les paraules.En: He understood the gift: it wasn't the book, but the feeling behind the words.Ca: Van sortir junts de la llibreria, somrient i amb ganes de celebrar Sant Joan.En: They both left the bookstore together, smiling and eager to celebrate Sant Joan.Ca: Havien descobert que el veritable valor d'un regal rau en la sinceritat i les emocions que transmet.En: They had discovered that the true value of a gift lies in the sincerity and emotions it conveys.Ca: Núria va aprendre a confiar en els seus instints: no era l'extravagància sinó l'amor el que realment importava.En: Núria learned to trust her instincts: it was not extravagance but love that truly mattered.Ca: Mentre el sol es ponia darrere dels edificis antics, Núria i Jordi caminaven pels carrers empedrats, més units que mai, amb el cor ple d'agraïment i alegria per la seva amistat renovada.En: As the sun set behind the ancient buildings, Núria and Jordi walked down the cobblestone streets, more united than ever, with their hearts full of gratitude and joy for their renewed friendship.Ca: La nit de Sant Joan prometia ser inoblidable.En: The night of Sant Joan promised to be unforgettable. Vocabulary Words:the sun: el solthe spring: la primaverathe flower: la florthe breeze: la brisathe alleyway: el carreróthe gift: el regalthe bookstore: la llibreriathe corner: la cantonadathe bell: la campanetathe shelf: el prestatgethe window: la finestrathe shadow: l'ombrathe doubt: el dubtethe owner: el propietarithe poetry: la poesiathe celebration: la celebracióthe corner (comfortable): el racóthe velvet: el vellutthe verse: el versthe emotion: l'emocióthe sincerity: la sinceritatthe gratitude: l'agraïmentthe joy: l'alegriathe heart: el corthe friendship: l'amistatthe instinct: l'instintthe extravagance: l'extravagànciathe sunset: la posta de solthe building: l'edificithe cobblestone: el carrer empedrat

Have you ever lost the joy in your creative work — that sense of fun you had when you were starting out, before the admin and the algorithms drained it away? How do mid-career creatives get it back, and what can a four-year-old teach us about play? Austin Kleon talks about productive procrastination, silly rituals, the case for paper reference books in an AI world, and how his newsletter went from a marketing cost to the day job that keeps the lights on. In the intro, Does social media still sell books? [Self-Publishing with ALLi]; Trial by algorithm [The Bookseller]; Publishing's AI Hypocrisy Problem [The New Publishing Standard]; ALLi AI survey for authors; Brave New Bookshelf Podcast, and Pics from signing at BookVault. Today's show is sponsored by ProWritingAid, writing and editing software that goes way beyond just grammar and typo checking. With its detailed reports on how to improve your writing and integration with writing software, ProWritingAid will help you improve your book before you send it to an editor, agent or publisher. Check it out for free or get 15% off the premium edition at www.ProWritingAid.com/joanna This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn Austin Kleon is the New York Times and international bestselling author of nonfiction books, including Steal Like an Artist, Show Your Work!, and Keep Going, as well as an artist, professional speaker, and poet. His latest book is Don't Call It Art: 10 Ways to Create Like a Kid Again. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below. Show Notes Why Austin wrote Don't Call It Art now, and what his kids taught him about creative joy Productive procrastination, silly rituals, and treating writing like Lego Comedy as a philosophical position, and giving yourself permission to be bad in private Sharing process in the algorithm era, and why your whole life is the process Bibliomancy, paper reference books, and what AI can't give you that a dictionary can Style, the Taco Bell distinctiveness rule, and how Austin's newsletter became his day job You can find Austin at AustinKleon.com. Transcript of the interview with Austin Kleon Jo: Austin Kleon is the New York Times and international bestselling author of nonfiction books, including Steal Like an Artist, Show Your Work!, and Keep Going, as well as an artist, professional speaker, and poet. His latest book is Don't Call It Art: 10 Ways to Create Like a Kid Again. So welcome back to the show, Austin. Austin: Thank you for having me back. It's nice to talk to you again. Jo: You were on the show in March 2020, and at the time, your book was Keep Going, which was prescient considering the pandemic and politics. So I wondered, why this book, Don't Call It Art, now? Was this something you see in the creative community or your own life that made you want to write this book? Austin: Keep Going is a book about what happens when the world goes crazy around you and you're still trying to do your creative work. This is a book about what happens when inside has bottomed out. Keep Going is a book about the world bottoming out, and you're worried that your own creative work is going to bottom out too. How do you keep pushing through and keep making stuff? This book, to me, is about what happens when you bottom out inside—when you've lost that love and feeling for the thing that you wanted to do, and you're just not connecting with it in the way that you used to or the way that you want to. How do you get back? How do you return to that sense of joy and wonder and fun that we have when we're starting out? And for me, it was being around my little kids that taught me how to tap into that. My kids were natural—they didn't have any creative hangups. I would spend all day talking to people who had creative hangups, and then I'd get back in the house, and I'd just be around these beings who didn't have any of them. It was really instructive. I felt like, if I could bottle the energy of my kids when they were about four years old and try to put it in a book, I think it could really help a lot of the people that I run into, and the people with the kinds of problems I hear from. Jo: You mentioned bottoming out. How do people know when they've hit that point? Austin: You just don't want to do it anymore. You're kind of like, “This just isn't giving me back what it used to.” When we start with our creative work, that's the thing that juices us. We come away from it feeling full up. I think you hit a certain point where you start to feel drained after it. Or maybe you don't feel drained by the thing itself that you're doing—maybe it's all the stuff around it, which is more often the case. For example, if you're a mid-career writer like me, who's been publishing books for 16 years now, I still really like writing. I still really like drawing. I still really like cutting and pasting and putting things together. It's the admin around the work—the emails, the meetings, the running-a-business part of it—that's super draining for me, and that stuff can start to bleed over into the creative work. So it's really important for me to make sure that I'm having some playtime, some R&D, some research and development time, to make sure it's not just all business. When you take the thing that you love and you turn it into the thing that you make a living from, you can really run into a lot of problems. Jo: I'm at 20 years, so I know exactly what you're saying, and a lot of listeners are the same. We love writing books, but it's all the stuff that goes around it. So for those of us who do this for money as well as passion, what are some practical ways to have more fun with our creativity? Austin: Something I learned from my kids is that you really are your most creative when you're supposed to be doing something else. So one of the things I use a lot in the studio is productive procrastination. Whatever I'm supposed to be working on, I start another little project, and that's my little naughty fun time. When I first come into the studio, I try to do something that I'm not supposed to be doing—something that I won't have much to show for. That could be making one of my blackout poems. That could be making a collage in my notebook. It could also be sitting here. I have a bass in the studio now, so I can practise my bass guitar. Sometimes I'll do that for the first 15 minutes just to get in that headspace of, “Hey, what's it like to do something just for yourself? Just because you want to do it?” The juice that you get from that little naughty “I'm going to do what I'm not supposed to be doing right now” thing, that carries into the rest of the day. It's like a nice start to things. Jo: Do you think that play could be something different to what we make our money with? For me, writing novels and stories is great fun in one way, but it's also what I then publish and make money on. So writing stories is more serious, I guess, than playing with Lego or something. Austin: Right. So the trick is, how can you make writing your stories like playing with Lego? That's kind of been my whole career. I hate staring at Microsoft Word and that blinking cursor, taunting you like, “Come on, what have you got?” A lot of my creative life has been about trying to make it more playful, trying to make it feel more like a game. That's how I came up with my blackout poems. I take an article from The New York Times and I black it out until it only has a few words left behind. It sort of looks like if the CIA did haiku, for some people listening. That was one little exercise. Then weirdly, that side thing that I thought was just play, just fun—that turned into my first book. So then it's, okay, what else can I mess around with and play with? I do a lot of collage work in the studio, and I rarely actually use that for any of the books. Sometimes I use it for my newsletter to illustrate the newsletter. But it's always about trying to figure out, how can I make writing a game? How can I make it more playful? There are different things that I do to make it feel more playful. One of them's really stupid. I really believe in silly rituals because I think silliness is really powerful. People talk about their daily rituals—Mason Currey has that great book, Daily Rituals: How Artists Work. When I was reading that book, I realised it was really the silly stuff that I really liked. There was, I think it was Balzac counting out coffee beans or something before he got to write. Or Steinbeck sharpening 12 pencils or something goofy like that. So one of the things I like to do before I write is that I have these cigarette pencils. They're pencils that look like cigarettes in the studio. I put one in my mouth before I start writing, and I pretend to be some old '40s writer on a typewriter. I like doing goofy stuff in the studio because I think when you do goofy stuff—stuff that you'd be embarrassed if anyone else saw it—it gets you in that playful state. Jo: It's interesting. In your book, you have a section that says, “Don't take things too seriously.” For many of us, we write memoir for example, and that is very close to us. It's like the deepest expression of what we want to say in the world. It feels very serious. So how can we hold things more lightly and not take things so seriously? Austin: For me, comedy is actually a philosophical position. What I mean by that is, I think a lot of people set out with a tragic model of creative work. They think, “Oh, I have this special gift,” or, “I have this thing that I really need to do, and I need to put it out into the world, and I need to make the world look more like I want it to look.” They have this idea that, “Through blood and sweat and tears, I'm going to see this thing through, and I'm going to push it into the world, and I'm going to have my way.” I think there's another way of working where it's more like, “I'm just a normal person trying to play with my environment, and take my experiences and put them into something interesting. So I'm going to play and use my wits, and we're going to see what we come up with.” Those really are two modes of life. The pandemic taught me that it was really when we were keeping our sense of humour, when we were having a laugh and keeping our egos in check around the house and just acknowledging how goofy we all were and how ridiculous the situation was, that seemed to be when we were really thriving. Versus, “Well, we're in this tough situation. We've got to make it into what we want it to be.” That felt really bad. But when we cruised along and we were just improvisational, when we went at things with a kind of lightness, that worked. There's a great Italo Calvino essay about lightness in Six Memos for the Next Millennium. Lightness is really underrated. Even when we're going about heavy work, having a sense of lightness and play with it just makes the work better. That's a philosophical position of mine. I aspire to comedy. I aspire to a comic outlook on life. I'm just a creature with a body who's going to die, and I'm fundamentally ridiculous. Life is pretty absurd. You just make the best of it. Jo: There's certainly some truth there. Staying on a similar theme, you have a chapter in the book on permission to be bad. Many of the listeners also have your book Show Your Work, and it shaped many of us into sharing our work in progress. It feels quite dangerous now, in a world where judgment is much louder than it maybe was when you wrote Show Your Work. So tell us a bit about permission to be bad versus should we keep some of this private? Austin: Permission to be bad is about the making part of things. It's the private part. It's permission to be bad when you're in private, when you're actually doing the work. Show Your Work is a book about what you do after you've done the work, or while you're doing the work. It was never about putting up a webcam and running a 24/7 feed. It was more like, hey, what are the ways that I can connect with the kind of audience I can build while I'm making the work itself? So the way I see permission to be bad is, you really have to give yourself permission when you're not sharing, when you're off screen, to really be as bad as you want to be. It doesn't necessarily mean quality-wise. I think it also means letting yourself write stuff that you would never say on social media. Letting yourself read stuff that you wouldn't admit you were reading on social media. Letting yourself listen to stuff. Letting yourself really be that unfiltered, unhinged, private person that you want to be. Then when it comes to sharing, you put some time in between that input time, that making time, and the sharing time, and then you share what you think is going to be useful or helpful or interesting to other people. Jo: I think you wrote that book before TikTok, and how fast people are moving. Do you think people need to slow down a bit in what they share, maybe? Austin: I don't know. I obviously had a lot more faith in social media back then. I use all the principles from Show Your Work in my newsletter. Newsletters are very much the new kind of great thing. They're doing a lot of the work that social media used to do, in that you're still able to have this direct connection with the people that you're trying to reach. The big problem with social media now is that it's all algorithmically tuned, where the people that are following you don't see the stuff that you're doing most of the time. What you have to do now, if you want the people who are following you to see your stuff on social media, is you have to make stuff that the algorithm likes. That's a whole different thing. As far as the Show Your Work principle—which is share your process as much as your product—that carries over to any platform. In my newsletter every Friday, I share a list of 10 things that were going on behind the scenes here. It might have been what I was watching on TV, what I listened to, a new pen I was trying out, or something like that. The Friday newsletter is almost always process stuff. When I talk about process, my definition is actually very broad. For a lot of people, it's drafting, editing, whatever. For me, the process is the whole life. The process is almost everything except the finished thing. A writer's life is 24/7. My friends who have real jobs really are like, “What do you do all day?” And I'm like, “Well, what do you mean?” They're like, “Well, I see you out on your bike ride.” I'm like, “Yes, when you see me out on a bike ride, I'm thinking through something half the time.” If I'm watching TV, I'm thinking, “Hey, would this be good in the newsletter?” I'm never off. My whole life—everything is copy, as Nora Ephron said. That's part of the job. It's very hard to turn off. So I see the whole life as process, and the question becomes, what little bits and pieces of that life and that process can you share with people while you're making the things that you hope to sell them later? Right now, I'm in a cycle where I'm selling this book, but all these people have showed up because I've shared my process every week for the past seven years since I put out a book. Jo: It's funny you say that. I was at the dentist yesterday, and— My dentist literally asked me, “So where do you get all your ideas?” This is a common question for all of us, right? And it just becomes so hard to explain that to people who don't walk around in the world just constantly getting ideas. Austin: I can't believe I'm going to tell this story. I was getting my vasectomy after my second kid, and I was talking to this doctor just before the operation. He said, “So what do you do for a living?” I said, “I'm a writer.” He said, “Oh, that must be cool. You get to use your brain.” And I said, “That's everything that you want your doctor to say.” I was going to say, “Please use your brain,” before he's about to cut into you. He said, “Oh, no, no. What I mean is, I know what I'm going to do every day for the next 10 years.” He knew exactly what his day was going to look like. He said, “You have to use your brain. You've got to figure out new stuff.” I was like, “Oh, that's really interesting.” That's the trade-off, right? He's got the job security. He knows what he's going to do. Every writer has a moment where they have to talk to a normal person about what you do. Jo: I was going to say, I'm married to one. Austin: Now, my wife, on the other hand, grew up the daughter of a writer, so she knows exactly what it's like. Nothing ever phases her. She's totally used to it. She's used to me staring off into space, completely checking out of a conversation. She's used to me using lines on her that I'm going to put in a piece later. She's used to the whole rigmarole. It's very handy. I've been very lucky in that sense. Jo: Coming back to the book, you talk about your use of bibliomancy for inspiration. Since we're talking about that, tell us about it. I think all the book people listening will be happy. Austin: I'm a person who still keeps a dictionary nearby—a paper dictionary. I keep a big old American Heritage. It's just a big, thick book. When I really don't have any ideas, I will turn at random to the dictionary, close my eyes, stick my finger down the page, open my eyes, and just see what I come up with. Sometimes just that act will give me an idea. I also do that with books. I'll go around the studio, pick up a book, flip to a random page, and just see what it says there, or read an old piece of marginalia that I've left in a book. I believe deeply in the power of bibliomancy, and I think it's a case for paper books. I'm one of those people that still really believes in reference books. I've started collecting more and more of them. I have an old, big dictionary that's always open on my desk, and I look up words. I learned from John McPhee, the writer, that you should look up words that you think you know. That was the first time I'd ever heard anyone say that. So I look up words that I think I know. Instead of reaching for a thesaurus when I need a different word, I actually just look up the definition of the word that I already have. That's another McPhee tip. The other thing that happened that I thought was really interesting is, I got a Roget's for the first time—a thesaurus. I don't think most people know what an actual thesaurus is. Most people think of a thesaurus as a synonym finder, and that's not actually what a thesaurus is at all. A thesaurus is more like an encyclopaedia, weirdly. You look up things based on big concepts, and then it gives you a bunch of words to look up later. It's a very strange thing. It's not what most people think it is. I have a couple of editions of Roget's in here. I like the really old Roget's from the 1900s because they actually have opposing ideas facing each other on the page. Do you have an old-school Roget's? Have you ever looked through one? Jo: I don't have one now, but I certainly grew up with them. I was literally just thinking, I wonder if there are ones for Americans and ones for British people, because so often we say different things and mean different things. I always hear Americans say, “Oh, that's a doozy,” or something, and it means the complete opposite thing here. Austin: Like if you say “fanny pack” over there. That means something very different than it means here, right? Chips or fries, that kind of stuff. So I wonder if there are different ones for different cultural references. Jo: I don't know. Austin: As people, with ChatGPT and all these LLMs and stuff, people are like, “Why would you ever pick up a paper reference book?” And I'm like, “I actually like the friction.” I like having to move in space and go over to my dictionary. I like flipping the pages. I like having to scan a page for the word I'm looking for, because— This marvellous thing happens when you're looking for the word, where you bump into all these other words. If you're a word nerd, you get to start thinking about the root of the word—oh, why is this word next to this word? Well, it's because they share the same root. Then you're going down all these fun rabbit holes. The thing that I'm trying to do as a writer and a creative person is, I'm trying to get to the thing that I didn't know I was looking for. The thing that people misunderstand about AI, I think personally, is that it's a great tool if you know what you're looking for. If you're like, “Find me this thing. I want exactly this. I want to see a picture of a dog wearing a king's costume,” or some crap like that, then it can spit that picture out for you. Or, “I want to know what happened on this day,” and whatever. It can do that. But that's not actually what I'm doing most of the time when I'm writing or making something. I start with an idea, but what really happens—the magic of writing and the magic of making stuff in general—is when you discover something that you didn't even know you were headed for. That's the real magic for me. Sometimes I have an idea and I want to articulate it for people, but more often than not, there's something that bothers me or something that I want to talk about, and I sit down and write, and I figure out what it is that I actually have to say and what I actually think. Every writer really knows this, and that's why the dictionary, stuff like that, those are ways of training you to get in that discovery mode. “Well, let me—oh, I bumped into this. I went looking for this one thing and then I ran into this other thing.” That's why I love the library. I don't know what system you use over there, but you look for one book in the Dewey Decimal System over here, and then, okay, here's all these other weird books next to it. Then you end up with three other books other than the one that you were looking for. That's the magic. To me, that's the magic of creative work, discovering what you didn't know you were looking for. That was particularly important for me when I was writing this book because we discovered that my wife has a condition called aphantasia. It's very rare in the population, about 2 to 3% of people. There's probably some people listening to this right now who are like, “What is this? Tell me.” Jo: Aphantasia actually more common in the creative industries. Austin: Yes. What it is, is that you don't see—when I say close your eyes and picture an apple, you don't actually see the apple in your head. You can think about an apple and the qualities of an apple, but you don't actually see it. Some people, and it's a matter of degree—some people like me, I can close my eyes, I can tell you what the apple looks like, I can tell you what colour it is, I can tell you where the shading is. Someone like my wife doesn't see the apple. She can tell you what an apple is. It's really interesting because she has a degree in architecture, which is known as a very visual field. But the thing you discover about aphantasia is, it doesn't keep people from becoming artists. In fact, it's the opposite. Someone like Ed Catmull, who co-founded Pixar, writes about it in his book, and so many of the great animators at Pixar are actually aphantasics. The reason is that they learned that they had to draw in order to see things. When you don't have a picture in your head of what you want something to look like, things appear in the drawing, and you find things that you couldn't even picture. A lot of writers actually are aphantasics. John Green discovered recently that he has aphantasia. It turns out that it's a superpower for writers, because if you don't have a picture in your head, then you don't have to translate that picture into words. A lot of writers talk about thinking in radio, like they have a constant narrator. My wife—she's probably going to kill me for talking about her this much—when she describes it to me, she's like, “Oh, it's like a radio in my head. I'm constantly hearing a voice, and it's a narrator.” I was like, “Holy shit, that would be really helpful to me.” I don't have anything like that in my head. I read Mrs Dalloway for the first time, and I gave it to her and I said, “You've got to read this book. I think this must be what it's like in your head.” And she said, “Oh my God, it is.” Part of the thing that I took away from that experience—this is a long-winded way of getting here—is that I take a lot of inspiration from people with this condition. Most of the people I know in the arts or the creative fields, they set out with this grand vision, and then they start working on the thing and it's nothing like what they had in their head, and they get really depressed: “This isn't what I had in mind.” Whereas if you set out without a picture in your head, and you just start manipulating things and you see what appears, that's more of the comic mode I was talking about earlier. What would happen if we just sat down with our materials and we started playing and we saw what appeared on the page? What if we started typing and saw what appeared, and then we played with that? That's the kind of joy. That's more like how kids operate. Kids are better at that. They're better at reacting to what's actually in front of them, instead of having these grandiose visions about what they're trying to achieve. Jo: Just coming back on the longevity of a creative career. Your books are very distinctive. You have a very distinctive visual style, your handwriting and the way the books are done. I wondered if another part of the ennui, perhaps, or the draining of the later career is that we get trapped into doing something that feels like it looks the same. Or we have a voice, and we're happy in that voice, but sometimes we want to do something completely different. For authors, we have different names. I write under two different names, and that helps. But equally— How do you define author voice, and do you ever feel like doing something completely different to your normal style? Austin: Style, in a lot of ways, is self-plagiarism. Style is the repeated things that we notice in people's work. Hitchcock talked about this in films. Wes Anderson is someone like that—Wes Anderson has a style. I'm sure that he gets really sick of it too sometimes, but you also can't help it in some ways. I thought a lot about this because people worry about style so much. A lot of the time, what we call style is what Adrian Tomine one time said: “Style is just the distance between what's in my head and what comes out of my hand.” I really like that definition. With this book, I was trying to think, “Okay, if I do another book in this series, how can I push things a little bit?” And then I was reading this article about Taco Bell. You guys have Taco Bell over there, don't you? Do you have Taco Bell? Jo: No. Austin: So Taco Bell, for people who don't know, is this American Mexican chain, and they have tacos and burritos and stuff like that. They're well known for making these really insane… it's so American, this company. They make a taco with a Doritos as a shell. Doritos are crisps, I guess. Jo: Yes, we have Doritos. Austin: Okay. I spent time in England, I just don't remember if I ate Doritos when I was in England. Anyway, I was reading this article about Taco Bell. It was really funny. They have an innovation kitchen at Taco Bell, and they have a rule about new products. The rule is called the distinctiveness rule, and the rule is: you can change the flavour or you can change the taste, or you can change the form, but you can't change both at the same time. I got really obsessed with this concept because I thought, “Well, this could be kind of interesting.” If you're someone who's had success and you're known for something, this presents an interesting thing. You could do a complete break and do something completely new, or you could try the distinctiveness rule. Okay, well, what if I play with this idea of taste versus form? What if I change the taste and keep the form? So the idea for Don't Call It Art was, what if I do another one of these books, but the taste is more like if my kids made it? It had the texture of kids' art, it had lots of scribbles in it, it was loose and messy. That was kind of the idea. The actual book ended up being more like the other books. It ended up looking like an Austin Kleon book, because I just can't help that. The thing you said about having multiple names that you write under, that's kind of what I do with the newsletter. I think of the newsletter as very different from the books. The newsletter is this twice-weekly thing where I can be a little bit more of myself. In the books, I'm this very helpful, happy version of myself. It's me, but it's me on my best day. I'm really helpful and interesting for you. The newsletter is still a highlight reel in a sense, but it's a little bit more of my weird everything-I'm-into. It's more of the unclipped version of me. The newsletter becomes a place where I can do a lot of the weird stuff that's much different from the books. I have these little projects going all the time. Sometimes I'll make a bunch of prints and put them online. Sometimes I'll make a bunch of zines on a topic I haven't covered in the book. Sometimes I'll do a mixtape. As someone who's interested in a lot of different forms and genres and just different modes of output, having something like a newsletter has been really creatively fruitful for me. It's kept me from getting too bottomed out with the books because the books do a certain thing for the reader, and as much as I'd love to do a book that was radically different, I also think I've been given a real gift with the form of my books, in that I kind of own the way that they feel and look. There aren't a lot of books that look like those books and feel like those books, and so I like playing with that form. It would be hard to get rid of it now. The pseudonym for me is kind of like the newsletter in a sense. The newsletter is a little bit more of where I get to be wild and wacky. Then the books are a little bit more of a chiselled thing. Jo: The books are perfect examples of the form, as you say, but it's interesting about the newsletter. You mentioned at the beginning that we can be drained by the admin around the work. For many people listening, a newsletter becomes admin. So how does the newsletter fit into your business? The books are traditionally published, they're very professional. How do you have your independent side, and how does all of that work together in your business? Austin: Thank you for asking that question. I run the whole show at the newsletter. The newsletter is just me, and then my wife edits it, and no one else is involved. I don't have an assistant. I don't have a team. It is just me, and that's why I love it. I control everything. I pick who gets in there. I pick everything. I love that. I grew up watching David Letterman over here, and Letterman had a nightly show, and I always thought that was killer. I thought, “Man, what a fun job. You have a show every night where you have a new guest, and you have all these wacky things going on.” It was like a variety show. I always thought that would be really fun, so the newsletter is my version of that. I started the newsletter in 2013, and it was just a Friday newsletter. It quickly became a list of 10 things I thought were worth sharing. I had a friend, Hugh MacLeod, who was like, “Hey, I have a newsletter. It's bigger than any conference you've ever gone to.” He was talking about South by Southwest here in Austin. He's like, “I have a newsletter now, and it's bigger than South by Southwest.” Jo: Oh, I remember him. Austin: He would say, “Every time I have a new print, I put it out, and there's a button, and then they buy it.” He was like, “You've got to get it. This newsletter thing is killer.” This was in 2011 or something. Jo: Yes, I still have his books. Blogging in Your Underwear or something. Austin: Totally. So Hugh's a whole different story, but I was just like, “Oh, I should really get a newsletter.” Letterman always had a top 10 list on his show. I just always thought a 10 list was really fun. And of course the books are lists of 10 too. So it just worked to have a weekly list of 10. It felt good, and it felt like an infinitely repeatable format. What I'm looking for as a creative person is an infinitely repeatable format that can go on and on and on and be new every time. So the list of 10 is something that people know the form of. It goes back to the Taco Bell thing. They know the form, but they're not sure what's going to go inside. They know it's going to be a burrito, but they don't know what's going to be in the burrito, and that's the exciting part. The newsletter, business-wise, was always a marketing cost for about the first eight years of its existence. I paid MailChimp to send it out. Then in about 2021, when I hadn't done a book for a while, my agent said, “You know, you should really think about doing a paid tier of your newsletter.” And this is to his credit, because he doesn't make anything off the newsletter. He said, “There's this thing called Substack now that makes that really easy.” So we moved to Substack in 2021 in October, and I started doing a Tuesday edition of the newsletter that was just for paid people. That grew enough that it's gone from a marketing cost to something that's almost—it's not quite as much as I make on my books, but it's close. And to be candid, my books sell pretty well. So suddenly the newsletter has become this really healthy income stream. The newsletter to me is actually the day job now. The newsletter is what really keeps the lights on. It's also the perfect mix. It's the day job, it's the thing that keeps income coming in on a regular basis, but it's also the thing I like to do the most. I'm not like a traditional writer who likes to just get lost in their book and take years and years and go away. I'm someone who loves to be doing a lot of different things. The newsletter is a perfect format for me. I'm talking myself into not quitting, actually. It's funny. It's gone from this thing that was a marketing cost to now it's a significant part of our income. That journey—such a bad word, journey—that trip has been very interesting. It's been really cool. But I'm also just lucky. I've been really lucky, and I think part of my thing is, I'm always just trying not to squander my luck. Jo: Well, the book is fantastic, and I know people are going to love it. And the newsletter, of course. So tell us— Where can people find you and your books and newsletter online? Austin: The easiest thing to do is to just go to AustinKleon.com, and that has links to everything—the books, the newsletter. I do actually keep an old-school blog still. I'm one of the few people that still maintains their blog and keeps it up to date. I'm hedging my bets because I think in the end everything will come back to a self-hosted website. I think in the end everyone's going to just go back to their little websites, or at least I hope so. Jo: Well, that was great, Austin. Thanks so much. Austin: Oh, thank you. The post Don't Call It Art: Rediscovering Creative Joy With Austin Kleon first appeared on The Creative Penn.

If you've ever wondered whether the Holy Spirit is “weird,” only for certain Christians, or mainly about emotional moments, we get it. The way you understand the Holy Spirit will shape whether you keep your distance, chase hype, or actually receive what God is offering.

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: A Journey Through the Park: Rediscovering Life's Balance Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2026-06-06-22-34-01-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De zon scheen helder boven het Vondelpark.En: The sun shone brightly above the Vondelpark.Nl: Het was een heerlijke dag in de late lente.En: It was a delightful day in late spring.Nl: Overal zagen mensen plezier maken.En: Everywhere, people could be seen having fun.Nl: Een klein, vrolijk briesje blies door de bomen en de geur van verse bloemen vulde de lucht.En: A small, cheerful breeze blew through the trees, and the scent of fresh flowers filled the air.Nl: Maarten, een man van middelbare leeftijd, liep rustig over de paden.En: Maarten, a middle-aged man, strolled leisurely along the paths.Nl: Hij probeerde even aan alles te ontsnappen: het werk, de stress en de zorgen.En: He was trying to escape everything for a while: the work, the stress, and the worries.Nl: Vandaag was zijn dag om alles los te laten en van wat vrije tijd te genieten.En: Today was his day to let go of everything and enjoy some free time.Nl: Maarten had recent veel werkdruk ervaren.En: Maarten had recently been experiencing a lot of work pressure.Nl: Lange uren op kantoor en geen tijd voor zichzelf hadden hun tol geëist.En: Long hours at the office and no time for himself had taken their toll.Nl: Zijn hart was zwaarder dan normaal, niet alleen door werk, maar door een onderliggend gevoel van tekortkoming.En: His heart felt heavier than usual, not just because of work, but due to an underlying feeling of inadequacy.Nl: Wat als hij niet meer kon presteren zoals van hem verwacht werd?En: What if he could no longer perform as expected of him?Nl: Terwijl hij de vogels hoorde fluiten, voelde Maarten opeens een vreemde pijn in zijn borst.En: As he heard the birds chirping, Maarten suddenly felt a strange pain in his chest.Nl: Het was scherp en onverwacht.En: It was sharp and unexpected.Nl: Hij stopte even.En: He stopped for a moment.Nl: "Misschien is het niets," dacht hij, "gewoon stress."En: "Maybe it's nothing," he thought, "just stress."Nl: Maar de pijn bleef.En: But the pain persisted.Nl: Sanne en Lucas liepen samen op een ander punt in het park.En: Sanne and Lucas were walking together at another spot in the park.Nl: Zij zagen Maarten verderop toen hij op een bankje ging zitten.En: They saw Maarten further away as he sat down on a bench.Nl: Zijn gezicht zag bleek.En: His face looked pale.Nl: Lucas knikte naar Sanne en zonder iets te zeggen, wisten ze wat ze moesten doen.En: Lucas nodded to Sanne, and without saying anything, they knew what they had to do.Nl: Ze renden naar Maarten toe.En: They ran towards Maarten.Nl: "Gaat het wel?"En: "Are you okay?"Nl: vroeg Sanne bezorgd.En: Sanne asked worriedly.Nl: Maarten wilde zeggen dat alles oké was, maar de pijn was nu te hevig.En: Maarten wanted to say that everything was fine, but the pain was now too intense.Nl: "Ik denk dat ik hulp nodig heb," gaf hij met moeite toe.En: "I think I need help," he admitted with difficulty.Nl: Het was moeilijk voor hem om dat te zeggen.En: It was hard for him to say that.Nl: Het betekende toegeven dat hij kwetsbaar was, dat hij hulp nodig had.En: It meant admitting he was vulnerable, that he needed help.Nl: Lucas belde snel een ambulance.En: Lucas quickly called an ambulance.Nl: "Blijf rustig," zei hij tegen Maarten.En: "Stay calm," he told Maarten.Nl: "Hulp is onderweg."En: "Help is on the way."Nl: Terwijl ze wachtte, voelde Maarten meer dan alleen fysieke pijn.En: As they waited, Maarten felt more than just physical pain.Nl: Hij voelde de angst en trots loslaten.En: He felt the fear and pride let go.Nl: Het was een moment van inzicht.En: It was a moment of insight.Nl: Misschien moest hij zijn leven veranderen.En: Maybe he needed to change his life.Nl: Misschien moest hij zichzelf toestaan kwetsbaar te zijn, hulp te accepteren.En: Maybe he should allow himself to be vulnerable, to accept help.Nl: De ambulance arriveerde en de paramedici namen Maarten mee naar het ziekenhuis.En: The ambulance arrived, and the paramedics took Maarten to the hospital.Nl: Sanne en Lucas bleven hem steunen, en Maarten voelde een vreemde rust over zich heen komen.En: Sanne and Lucas continued to support him, and Maarten felt a strange calmness come over him.Nl: Kort daarna, in het ziekenhuis, kreeg hij goed nieuws.En: Shortly after, in the hospital, he received good news.Nl: Het was niet ernstig, maar het was een waarschuwing.En: It was not serious, but it was a warning.Nl: Een kans om te veranderen.En: A chance to change.Nl: Maarten besloot zijn leven anders aan te pakken.En: Maarten decided to approach his life differently.Nl: Meer tijd voor ontspanning, meer aandacht voor zijn gezondheid.En: More time for relaxation, more attention to his health.Nl: Toen hij later weer door het Vondelpark liep, zonk de zon langzaam achter de bomen.En: When he later walked through the Vondelpark again, the sun slowly sank behind the trees.Nl: Hij voelde zich opgelucht en gemotiveerd.En: He felt relieved and motivated.Nl: De wandeling was nog steeds heerlijk, maar nu met een andere betekenis.En: The walk was still delightful, but now with a different meaning.Nl: Maarten wist dat hij stappen moest zetten om zijn gezondheid voorop te stellen.En: Maarten knew he had to take steps to prioritize his health.Nl: En hij wist dat hij het niet alleen hoefde te doen.En: And he knew he didn't have to do it alone. Vocabulary Words:shone: scheendelightful: heerlijkebreeze: briesjestrolled: liepleisurely: rustigstress: stressworries: zorgenpressure: werkdruktoll: tolunderlying: onderliggendinadequacy: tekortkomingchirping: fluitensharp: scherppersistent: bleefpale: bleekadmitted: toegegevenvulnerable: kwetsbaarambulance: ambulancecalm: rustiginsight: inzichtparamedics: paramedicirelieved: opgeluchtmotivated: gemotiveerdprioritize: voorop te stellenescaped: ontsnappenheavier: zwaarderunexpected: onverwachtpersistence: hevighealth: gezondheidwarning: waarschuwing

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Rediscovering Budapest: A Journey from Routine to Inspiration Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2026-06-06-07-38-19-hu Story Transcript:Hu: A tavasz első sugaraival a Széchenyi Fürdő megtelt élettel.En: With the first rays of spring, the Széchenyi Fürdő filled with life.Hu: A kék ég alatt, a gőzölgő medencék körül, fiatalok és idősek élvezték a meleg vizet.En: Under the blue sky, around the steaming pools, young and old alike enjoyed the warm water.Hu: Zoltán, helyi idegenvezető, a medence szélén állt.En: Zoltán, a local tour guide, stood at the edge of the pool.Hu: Nap mint nap ugyanazt a várost mutatta meg a turistáknak, de már nem érzett semmi különlegeset.En: Day after day, he showed the same city to tourists, but he no longer felt anything special.Hu: A város szépsége monotonná vált számára.En: The city's beauty had become monotonous for him.Hu: Aznap délután Zoltán találkozott Bencével, régi barátjával, aki a medencéknél volt úszómester.En: That afternoon, Zoltán met Bence, an old friend of his who was a lifeguard at the pools.Hu: „Zoli, mi a helyzet?En: "Zoli, what's going on?Hu: Mert kicsit elveszettnek tűnsz,” kérdezte Bence, miközben egy törülközőt adott oda neki.En: You seem a bit lost," asked Bence, while handing him a towel.Hu: Zoltán belekezdett.En: Zoltán began.Hu: „Nem tudom, hogy ez a munka nekem való-e.En: "I don't know if this job is for me.Hu: Úgy érzem, mintha csak robotként követném a napi rutint.En: I feel like I'm just a robot following the daily routine."Hu: ” Bence egy pillanatra elgondolkodott, majd bátorított: „Talán máshogy kéne nézned ezt az egészet.En: Bence thought for a moment, then encouraged him: "Maybe you should look at all this differently.Hu: Próbálj meg valódi kapcsolatot építeni az emberekkel.En: Try to build real connections with people.Hu: Hallgasd meg a történeteiket.En: Listen to their stories."Hu: ”Kicsit később, Zoltán épp egy csoportot vezetett a fürdőben, amikor meglátta Rékát.En: A little later, Zoltán was leading a group around the bath when he saw Réka.Hu: A lány egy padon ült, és feljegyzéseket készített.En: The girl was sitting on a bench, making notes.Hu: Réka épp arról írta a blogját, hogy milyen egyedi élményeket lehet gyűjteni Budapesten.En: Réka was writing her blog about unique experiences one can gather in Budapest.Hu: Zoltán odalépett hozzá, és bemutatkozott.En: Zoltán approached her and introduced himself.Hu: „Zoltán vagyok, idegenvezető.En: "I'm Zoltán, a tour guide.Hu: Szívesen megmutatnék neked valami különlegeset, ami nincs benne a könyvekben.En: I'd love to show you something special that's not in the books."Hu: ”Réka felcsillant, és így válaszolt: „Nagyszerű lenne!En: Réka's eyes lit up, and she replied, "That would be great!Hu: Mindig keresek új történeteket.En: I'm always looking for new stories."Hu: ”Zoltán este elvitte Rékát egy eldugott sikátorba, ahol egy kis kávézó volt.En: In the evening, Zoltán took Réka to a hidden alley where there was a small café.Hu: A falak tele voltak régi fotókkal és helyi legendákkal.En: The walls were covered with old photos and local legends.Hu: Miközben egy csésze kávé mellett beszélgettek, Zoltán újra felfedezte a várost Rékának mesélve.En: While they chatted over a cup of coffee, Zoltán rediscovered the city by telling Réka about it.Hu: „Tudtad, hogy itt élt egy híres író, aki az utcákat járta inspirációért?En: "Did you know that a famous writer used to live here, walking the streets for inspiration?"Hu: ” kérdezte.En: he asked.Hu: Réka figyelmesen hallgatta.En: Réka listened attentively.Hu: „Pont ilyen történetekre van szükségem,” mondta.En: "These are the kinds of stories I need," she said.Hu: A mély beszélgetés végére Zoltán úgy érezte, mintha új szemmel látná Budapestet.En: By the end of the deep conversation, Zoltán felt as if he saw Budapest with new eyes.Hu: Rájött, hogy a város élő történelem, és ő maga is része lehet ennek a történetnek.En: He realized that the city is living history, and he too could be a part of this story.Hu: Másnap reggel, a fürdő környékén sétálva, Zoltán érezte, hogy új energiával telve indul neki a napnak.En: The next morning, as he walked around the bath area, Zoltán felt he was starting the day filled with new energy.Hu: Már nem csak idegenvezető volt.En: He was no longer just a tour guide.Hu: Ő is egy mesélő, aki a város lelke és történetei iránt megújult szenvedéllyel viseltetik.En: He was a storyteller, with renewed passion for the soul and stories of the city.Hu: Réka pedig egy különleges történettel tért haza Budapestről, amit megosztott az olvasóival.En: And Réka returned home from Budapest with a special story, which she shared with her readers.Hu: „Köszönöm, Zoltán.En: "Thank you, Zoltán.Hu: Igazán különleges élményt nyújtottál,” szólt búcsúzóul Réka.En: You provided a truly special experience," said Réka in farewell.Hu: „És te is engem,” válaszolta Zoltán, mosolyogva.En: "And you did for me too," Zoltán replied, smiling.Hu: Mert rájött, hogy Budapest tele van elmeséletlen történetekkel, csak meg kell találni őket.En: Because he realized that Budapest is full of untold stories, just waiting to be discovered.Hu: És azt is megtanulta, hogy néha az emberek és az ő narratíváik tudják megváltoztatni a saját világát.En: And he also learned that sometimes people and their narratives can change his own world. Vocabulary Words:rays: sugaraksteaming: gőzölgőmonotonous: monotonlifeguard: úszómesterroutine: rutinconnections: kapcsolatokexperiences: élményekintroduce: bemutatalley: sikátorcovered: telelegends: legendákattentively: figyelmesenconversation: beszélgetésdiscovered: felfedezterenewed: megújultpassion: szenvedélysoul: lélekfarewell: búcsúzóulprovide: nyújtuntold: elmeséletlennarratives: narratívákinspiration: inspirációrediscovered: újrafelfedeztebenches: padokspecial: különlegesguide: vezetőenthusiasm: lelkesedéshidden: eldugottstories: történeteklegendary: legendás

In this interview I talked with Dr. Philip Bunn. He is a professor of political science at Covenant College and is an avid reader of great American novels. We talked about John Steinbeck's magnum opus, East of Eden. We discussed the biblical themes that are scattered throughout the story and way in which Steinbeck grasped and portrayed the old American spirit. I hope you enjoy! Go subscribe to The Paradox Press now!Follow me on X: https://x.com/andyschmitt99

In this episode, Candice sits down with Cindee Williams, a leadership coach, Maxwell Leadership certified speaker, DiSC behavioral consultant, and founder of Lead My Life. After spending years supporting her family business and raising her children, Cindee found herself facing a major identity shift when she became an empty nester. What followed was a journey of self-discovery that led her to help other women rediscover who they are beyond the roles they have carried for so long.    In this episode, they discuss: Why becoming an empty nester can trigger a powerful identity transformation How to rediscover who you are beyond motherhood, career titles, or life roles The importance of personal growth and lifelong learning in finding purpose How the DiSC assessment can help uncover strengths and communication styles Why small daily actions can create life-changing results over time The role community, mentorship, and support play in personal transformation How to lead your own life before trying to lead others   This episode is a reminder that your most meaningful chapter may still be ahead of you. No matter your season of life, you have unique gifts, wisdom, and purpose waiting to be fully embraced.    About Cindee: Cindee Williams is a Maxwell Leadership Certified Speaker, DISC Behavioral Consultant, and founder of the coaching platform LEAD My Life. With over 30 years of experience running a family-owned business, Cindee blends real-world leadership expertise with her passion for empowering empty-nest women. She helps them rediscover who they are beyond mom, gain unshakable confidence, and reignite a sense of purpose for this new season of life. A lifelong health and fitness advocate, Cindee encourages women to embrace midlife with resilience, clarity, and confidence. Known for her relatable storytelling and actionable insights, she equips her audience to take the lead in their own lives and create meaningful impact in their families, workplaces, and communities. Connect with Cindee: Website: https://cindeewilliams.com Company: https://leadmylife.com LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/CindeeWilliams ----- Connect with Candice Snyder! Website: https://www.podpage.com/passion-purpose-and-possibilities-1/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candicebsnyder?_rdr Passion, Purpose, and Possibilities Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/passionpurposeandpossibilitiescommunity/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passionpurposepossibilities/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicesnyder/ Shop For A Cause With Gifts That Give Back to Nonprofits: https://thekindnesscause.com/ Go to FusionaryFormulas.com and use code PASSION at checkout for 15% off your first order.  Fall In Love With Artists And Experience Joy And Calm: https://www.youtube.com/@movenartrelaxation

What happens when you wake up one day and realize you've been asleep for 20 years successful on paper, but dead inside? For Brian "Dixon" Dixon, that realization came after a near fatal pulmonary embolism. But it didn't have to. In this powerful episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Brian Dixon, Colorado based adventurer, speaker, and author of the upcoming book Hold My Beer, I'm Going to Change My Life. Dixon shares his raw, personal journey from decades of misalignment, chasing the wrong career, surrendering his dreams, and becoming a "man zombie," to a life changing breakthrough at age 52, when he finally launched a paraglider off Lookout Mountain, a dream he had buried for 25 years. Gerald and Dixon explore the "provider trap" that causes so many men to lose themselves, the small signals of misalignment we ignore until a crisis hits, and the antidote: Hold My Beer energy, a non negotiable, committed launch toward the one thing that still lights you up. Dixon offers a simple "man zombie test" to check in with yourself, explains why most people never recover their fire, and proves that it's never too late to stop talking about the old days and start living the new ones. Whether you're feeling stuck, burned out, or just vaguely numb, this episode will give you the permission and the push to say, "Hold my beer, I've got something I need to do." Ready to wake up? Listen now and learn how one committed launch can start a positive flywheel that changes everything.   What We Discuss [00:00] Introduction [02:01] Meet Brian "Dixon" and his upcoming book [04:39] The "hold my beer" moment that changed everything [05:35] Living 20 years in misalignment and autopilot [06:46] Financial collapse and personal reset after 2008 [07:42] The life-threatening health scare that sparked change [09:12] Rediscovering a lost dream: paragliding off Lookout Mountain [10:56] Turning one decision into a life transformation [13:55] Defining "hold my beer energy" [14:27] The hidden danger of the provider trap [17:55] Losing yourself in responsibility and routine [19:00] Why making time for yourself is essential [20:52] How to realign your life before a crisis hits [22:09] The "man zombie test" and self-check questions [24:05] Tackling misalignment one decision at a time [25:11] Why commitment, not interest, drives transformation [26:19] Building a positive momentum flywheel [27:08] Reigniting passion at any stage of life [30:13] Signs you're losing your fire and how to reverse it [31:56] It's never too late: overcoming the "I'm stuck" mindset [34:35] Where to find Dixon and what's next  Notable Quotes [05:56] "My passion and my fire for life went to sleep, and I call it a man zombie stage. I basically went into autopilot for 20 years." – Brian Dixon [08:35] "After the pulmonary embolism, I said: I am halfway through my life. I am 44 years old and I have been asleep this whole time." – Brian Dixon [15:21] "I feel like men can lose themselves inside of that provider ship piece – they don't have any guardrails for their own dreams." – Brian Dixon [21:56] "The big thing is, it's tough for men to actually know they're asleep. If you're taking a nap in the middle of the night, you don't know you're asleep." – Brian Dixon [22:23] "When is the last time you did something just for you? Not for your boss, not for your spouse, not for your kids? These check-in questions can help you avoid the hospital." – Brian Dixon [24:20] "Eat the elephant one step at a time. Find the one thing that's most misaligned. Then hold my beer – non-negotiable. Nothing's going to stop me." – Brian Dixon [24:44] "When you launch a paraglider, we call it a committed launch. Life or death. That's how you should treat Hold My Beer." – Brian Dixon [30:56] "If you ever find yourself where most of your conversation is about how things used to be, that's a trigger signal. Your fire is going out. You should be talking about what you're planning on doing right now." – Brian Dixon [31:35] "You don't quit snowboarding when you get old. You get old because you quit snowboarding." – Brian Dixon [33:59] "It's never too late if you can kindle that fire again." – Brian Dixon   Resource and Links Brian "Dixon" Dixon Website: www.gowithdixon.com Book: Hold My Beer, I'm Going to Change My Life (coming Fall)   Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds

Hour 3 for 6/2/26 Drew and Dr. Susan Hanssen discuss the Cold War and the evils of communism (3:15). Topics: talking to young people about history (13:16), El Salvador (21:50), teaching at a public university (29:38), communism vs. fascism (33:55), end of the Cold War (38:53), and Albania (45:19). Link: Relevantradio.com/Udallas

Learn more about Howard at:  https://howardlanger.com/ Show notes:  Show Notes    ⚖️ [02:22] Reading biographies of famous lawyers as a child

This episode of the One Cry Podcast features brothers Bill and Jim Elliff as they reflect on the Jesus movement of the 1970s, personal stories of revival, and how seasons of awakening have shaped their lives and ministries. They also discuss bold evangelism, God's faithful provision, and practical ways to share Jesus today. Please let us know how the OneCry Podcast has impacted your own story by emailing us at info@onecry.com. You can find many more downloadable revival resources and join the movement at www.onecry.com  

Glenn Sturm is an attorney, entrepreneur, photographer, and cancer survivor whose life changed forever after receiving a stage four cancer diagnosis nearly two decades ago. What once was a relentless pursuit of professional success became an invitation to slow down, refocus on what mattered most, and live with greater purpose and gratitude. Through years of treatment, setbacks, and unexpected joy, Glenn has become a passionate advocate for holistic cancer care, meaningful relationships, and finding beauty even in difficult seasons. Today, Glenn shares how cancer unexpectedly freed him from an exhausting cycle of overwork, why rediscovering photography and chasing solar eclipses reignited his sense of wonder, and the life-changing impact of a strong support system. He opens up about facing fear and grief while continuing to choose hope, curiosity, and joy. Glenn also reflects on the lessons passed down from his family and why he believes our greatest legacy is the love we leave behind. My friends, if you're walking through uncertainty or trying to remember what truly matters, this conversation is for you. You'll leave reminded that even in life's hardest seasons, there is still beauty to notice, purpose to pursue, and hope worth holding onto.

Today, I'm joined by an amazing friend, client, and graduate of The Big Talk Academy Mastery, Dr. Lía Roth.    Dr. Roth is a psychoanalyst and keynote speaker specializing in shame, betrayal, and relational dynamics. She is the bestselling author of Get In or Get Out, But Don't Stay in the Freakn' Middle. Known for her sharp, grounded insight, she is a speaker whose presence ignites possibility.   In this episode, we'll explore: What happens when we operate from shame How to offer yourself belonging, rather than waiting to receive it from others The steps to heal from shame and create new possibilities Her current favorites: Book: Endgame (Fin de partida) by Samuel Beckett and Speaker: Tricia Brouk More from Dr. Lía Roth Her big talk, given at The Triad in NYC Website: https://drliaroth.com/speakup    Listen to her podcast  Read her book, Get In or Get Out, But Don't Stay in the Freakn' Middle Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrLRoth  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drliaroth  Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlroth  Substack: https://substack.com/@drliaroth    More from Tricia  Get your copy of my latest book, Being Smart is Stupid Join me LIVE for my Complimentary Monthly Workshop Explore my content and follow me on YouTube Follow me on Instagram  Connect with me on Facebook  Connect with me on LinkedIn  Visit my website at TriciaBrouk.com 

Stephanie Rousselle and guest Dr. Alan Noble discuss living well in today's world by reclaiming forgotten Christian virtues. Drawing from Noble's book, To Live Well, let's consider practical steps Christians can take to thrive amid cultural confusion.According to Noble, we're surrounded by an overwhelming cacophony of voices (social media, celebrities, self-help gurus, even misguided pastors), each offering conflicting advice on how to live a meaningful life. This deluge of ideas leaves many—Christians included—feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and directionless. The key challenge: how do we discern a coherent, godly way of living amid so many broken narratives?Noble suggests reclaiming classic virtues—time-honored character strengths rooted in Christian tradition and Scripture—as a path toward living well. He points out that Protestants, in particular, have neglected these virtues, though historically theologians like Augustine, Aquinas, and Calvin all upheld their value.Practicing these virtues is not about earning favor with God. Instead, Christians live out virtue in grateful response to God's grace, relying on the Spirit's power, and always within community, where we are supported, challenged, and forgiven when we fail.So, let's consider 3 of the 7 virtues Alan Noble offers in his book.1. Prudence (choosing decisively)Prudence means choosing decisively and wisely. In a world obsessed with limitless choice, prudence involves slowing down, humbly discerning reality, seeking what truly glorifies God, deliberate decision-making, and resolute action. Prudence guards against both indecision (paralysis) and the sunk-cost fallacy—stubbornly sticking with poor choices out of pride or prior investment.2. Fortitude (Suffering steadfastly)Modern culture avoids suffering at all costs, but Noble explains that fortitude is about the courage to endure or risk suffering for the sake of the good. Suffering, rightly faced, builds character and produces hope—connecting deeply to the sanctifying work God does in His people. Fortitude enables Christians to move through hardship, trusting that even suffering has purpose.Magnanimity is boldly living into the excellence and gifts God has given, for His glory and the good of others. Pusillanimity, by contrast, is timidity—hiding or burying your God-given talents out of fear. As illustrated in the parable of the talents, God calls each believer to step out in faith and use their gifts with courage.3. Temperance (living moderately)Temperance is the willful restraint from doing everything you can do, especially when surrounded with endless technological, social, and material options. Choosing not to indulge every impulse, but to order choices for God's glory, is countercultural but vital for soul health.When we reorder our perspectives around these timeless virtues, we move from confusion and anxiety toward clarity, purpose, and peace—living as God intended, by His grace and for His glory.ApplicationSelf-examine: Where do you feel confused or pressured by the “heap of broken images” in your life?Practice virtues: Choose to cultivate prudence, fortitude, magnanimity, and temperance, seeking wisdom, courage, excellence, and self-control in daily choices.Pursue community: Remember that virtue grows in fellowship with others; seek relationships that encourage and hold you accountable.Rest in grace: When you fail, rely on God's grace and learn from your mistakes. Embrace the freedom found in Christ's finished work.MORE ABOUT “TO LIVE WELL”You were told to live a meaningful life. But no one ever told you how.Our lives are shaped by contradictions. Competing voices tell us who to be, what to want, and how to live. The result? A fragmented moral imagination. We're handed a thousand broken messages and left to cobble together something resembling a life. But instead of clarity, we get exhaustion. Instead of wisdom, we get anxiety.This leaves you asking yourself How can I get through when I feel alone and confused? How can I live well in this broken and chaotic world?In To Live Well, Alan Noble shows you how you can not only endure but flourish in life. Through exploring the seven virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude, temperance, faith, hope, and love, you'll learn how tochoose gracefully,act justly,suffer steadfastly,live moderately,believe soundly,hope resolutely, andlove rightly.This book won't give you a ten-step plan to fix everything. It doesn't promise clarity overnight. But it will invite you into something deeper: an ancient, time-tested path of habits of heart and mind that shape who we are and how we live.With honesty, theological depth, and a mentor's heart, Noble names your confusion and offers an antidote―not by escaping the mess but by learning how to live faithfully within it. If you've ever longed for something solid in a world that just wants to sell you more temporary stuff, To Live Well is a good place to begin.Do you feel the pain and pressure of spiritual exhaustion? Do you feel unworthy despite consistent effort? Do you lack joy in your personal faith? Do you desire practical, daily rhythms that sustain delight in God?  That's why I wrote "Awaken Delight." It will help you (re)discover:1-Delight in God is identity-shaping, not emotion-driven. Delight in God is not fleeting emotion but resilient identity.2-Delight in God is altogether trust, satisfaction in God, relational intimacy with Him. Delight in God is often expressed and grown through resilient joy under suffering.3-Jesus is the center of every endeavor to delight in God.These are some of the truths we ponder together through my book, Awaken Delight."Awaken Delight" is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued, and ready to embrace the reality of delight in God.Find out more at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Are you caught in the race to do more, be more, and achieve more—only to find yourself feeling stuck, disconnected, and unfulfilled? In an age where "hustle culture" pushes us to optimize every moment, a quiet crisis is unfolding: our relentless drive for productivity may actually be undermining our emotional wellness and closest relationships. In this episode, listeners are invited to take a closer look at how toxic productivity seeps into our personal lives, from romantic partnerships to friendships, and even the way we relate to ourselves. The conversation dissects the difference between healthy ambition and achievement born from unresolved emotions, explores why "performing" and "optimizing" can stifle genuine connection, and offers actionable steps to shift towards presence, self-compassion, and authenticity. Through relatable stories and research-backed insights, this episode helps listeners recognize these patterns and learn how to reclaim time, creativity, and real intimacy in their lives. Israa Nasir is a psychotherapist and founder of Well.Guide, who has cultivated a dedicated following of over 350,000 across social media for her evidence-based take on mental health and productivity. Israa's debut book, Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World That Always Demands More, dives deep into the roots of hustle culture and dismantles the myth that our worth is tied to how much we accomplish. Drawing on therapeutic insights, client stories, and her own experience, Israa helps readers unlearn toxic patterns and adopt a more emotionally sustainable path forward.   Episode Highlights 04:07 Defining toxic productivity. 09:23 A personal journey from achievement chasing to emotional awareness. 13:11 How early experiences shape productivity patterns. 16:50 How optimization culture impacts relationships. 22:56 Restoring connection: Returning to presence and somatic awareness. 27:09 Measuring fulfillment: Moving beyond external checklists. 29:45 Barriers to genuine connection. 31:24 How busyness and parenting impact relationships. 34:34 How reevaluating commitments leads to more intentional choices. 37:57 Rediscovering play and creativity fosters connection.   Your Checklist of Actions to Take Conduct a Time and Energy Audit: List out all your commitments from the past three weeks and reflect on which ones made you feel energized versus drained, then evaluate their necessity. Question Unexamined Obligations: Regularly ask yourself if certain routines, events, or roles (like always hosting or planning) are still serving you or are just a habit. Remove One Calendar Item Weekly: Apply the "Chanel rule" by intentionally taking one thing off your weekly schedule to create space for presence and restoration. Reconnect with Body Awareness: Check in with your body throughout the day—notice hunger, sleepiness, or stress cues instead of overriding them for productivity. Prioritize Genuine Connection Over Outcome: In relationships, focus more on the quality of your shared experiences and less on optimizing them for external validation. Cultivate Hobbies Without a Goal: Practice a hobby just for the sake of enjoyment and creativity, not for achievement or performance. Allow for Boredom and Unstructured Time: Create intentional moments for daydreaming, idleness, or simply "being" to spark connection and creativity. Respond to Emotional Needs, Not Just Tasks: In your partnerships, notice patterns rather than isolated actions and bring more grace, flexibility, and emotional presence to everyday interactions.   Mentioned Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World That Always Demands More (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Want to Improve Your Relationship? Start Paying More Attention to Bids (Gottman Institute) (blog) Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication (free guide)   Connect with Israa Nasir Website: israanasir.com Instagram: instagram.com/well.guide LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/israanasir TikTok: tiktok.com/@well.guide