Podcast appearances and mentions of river styx

Hello Witches Join me for this months full moon episode looking at the Strawberry Moon, its folklore and magickal correspondences. We will look at different ways to honour and work with the energy of the Strawberry Moon, some reflective journaling prompts to help you connect with this moons themes alongside a tarot/oracle spread. Find my newly released The Book of Tides, a seasonal grimoire that explores the Summer Solstice through a look at the element of water. We begin with the history and traditions of Litha but the heart of this book is devoted to the mysteries of sacred waters.  Inside you will find the origins, folklore, correspondences and magickal themes of Litha. Tarot/oracle abd journal prompts for Litha, Solar Magick, making Sun Water and how to use it in your craft, a Sun invocation ritual, a delve into the element of water, its magickal correspondences, symbolism and working with its energy in your craft, Waters of the Otherworld - sacred wells, enchanted springs, Celtic lore, Arthurian legend, sea spirits, the River Styx, Achilles and ancient beliefs surrounding magickal waters. We also look at Waters of the Witch including the folklore and magickal uses of black water, brackish water, dew, fog, hail, fountain/well water, war water, ice, rain water, river/lake, sea, marsh and waterfall water. Also how it was used by witches, healers and cunning folk traditionally. Learn how to make Witch's Holy Water, explore moon water and guidance on the magickal properties and uses of water from the full, waxing, waning, dark and new moon phases. We also look at mermaids, selkies and witchcraft connected to them. We look at Midsummers Eve and its ancient connection to dream and intuitive magick, the witchs grimoire and some kitchen witchery. Alongside the zine you can order The Book of Tides witch box that includes hand dressed anointed spell candles - The Love Witch blend incorporating rose oil, rose petals, chamomile and lavender for use in self love, confidence, manifestation rituals and spell work. The Love Witch herb blend for spell jars/bags, rituals, spell work, bath rituals or offerings. Wheel of the Year altar image and incense sticks also included. I ship all over the globe and am a five star Etsy seller - order here - Patreons can benefit from 15% discount - https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/4520151444/the-book-of-tides-a-litha-witch-box Join us in The Hedge & Hollow to join our Tarot theme. We begin by exploring the history and spirit of tarot, looking at the different ways the cards can be used and how to build a meaningful relationship with your deck.  We explore the foundations of tarot including the four suits, the four elements, numbers, court cards and the rich symbolism that runs through the deck. Journey through the tarot temple where the card that most wishes to work with you reveals itself. Through a guided meditation you will meet the energy, message or wisdom that is waiting for you within the cards.  In our final week we explore tarot as a tool for self-reflection and transformation. Together we will look at archetypes, shadow cards, repeating cards and the ways tarot can guide us towards deeper self-understanding and future possibilities.  You can access all of this through the sorceress tier for £8 a month and can be cancelled at any time.   https://patreon.com/TheHedgeandHollow?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink For PR, Media, general enquiries please email me at carly@thewhitewitchcompany.co.uk Find me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thewhitewitchpodcast/?hl=en-gb Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today I am joined by Carla from our coven to talk about death, grief, poisonous plants, her craft and a whole lot more in this episode! This is part one as the interview was so long my software couldn't cope with the duration so I have released as a two parter. Carla Valentine is a qualified Senior Mortuary Technician, and is currently the human remains conservator at Barts Pathology Museum in London. Her career caring for the dead has spanned over 20 years. She is a writer and broadcaster, featuring on TV shows such as The Bone Detectives, Fatberg Autopsy and Ancient Unexplained Files, and has a podcast called Mortem on BBC Sounds. Her first book, Past Mortems, documents her career carrying out autopsies for a decade, and the follow up, The Language of Bones - out October 1st 2026 - is a deeper exploration of death practices and the human condition. She also penned Murder Isn't Easy: The Forensics of Agatha Christie, and her next book, Planted Evidence - all about gardens, graves and poisonous plants - will be published in 2028. Carla's career informs her craft and she incorporates death meditation (mortality salience) into her practice as well as the use of body fluids and bones. She runs a small goth gardening business called Morticulture and is obsessed with the dark side of horticulture and its history. You can find Carla here - Website: www.carlavalentine.co.uk Insta (human remains/work): @past_mortems Insta (personal): @carlavalentineuk Insta (Morticulture): @morticult Tik Tok: @carlavalentineuk Our book review is Collected Curiosities - More Stories and Recipes from the Historical Apothecary Cabinet by Amanda Edmiston. Find my newly released The Book of Tides, a seasonal grimoire that explores the Summer Solstice through a look at the element of water. We begin with the history and traditions of Litha but the heart of this book is devoted to the mysteries of sacred waters.  Inside you will find the origins, folklore, correspondences and magickal themes of Litha. Tarot/oracle abd journal prompts for Litha, Solar Magick, making Sun Water and how to use it in your craft, a Sun invocation ritual, a delve into the element of water, its magickal correspondences, symbolism and working with its energy in your craft, Waters of the Otherworld - sacred wells, enchanted springs, Celtic lore, Arthurian legend, sea spirits, the River Styx, Achilles and ancient beliefs surrounding magickal waters. We also look at Waters of the Witch including the folklore and magickal uses of black water, brackish water, dew, fog, hail, fountain/well water, war water, ice, rain water, river/lake, sea, marsh and waterfall water. Also how it was used by witches, healers and cunning folk traditionally. Learn how to make Witch's Holy Water, explore moon water and guidance on the magickal properties and uses of water from the full, waxing, waning, dark and new moon phases. We also look at mermaids, selkies and witchcraft connected to them. We look at Midsummers Eve and its ancient connection to dream and intuitive magick, the witchs grimoire and some kitchen witchery. Alongside the zine you can order The Book of Tides witch box that includes hand dressed anointed spell candles - The Love Witch blend incorporating rose oil, rose petals, chamomile and lavender for use in self love, confidence, manifestation rituals and spell work. The Love Witch herb blend for spell jars/bags, rituals, spell work, bath rituals or offerings. Wheel of the Year altar image and incense sticks also included. I ship all over the globe and am a five star Etsy seller - order here - Patreons can benefit from 15% discount - https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/4520151444/the-book-of-tides-a-litha-witch-box Join us in The Hedge & Hollow to join our Tarot theme. We begin by exploring the history and spirit of tarot, looking at the different ways the cards can be used and how to build a meaningful relationship with your deck.  We explore the foundations of tarot including the four suits, the four elements, numbers, court cards and the rich symbolism that runs through the deck. Journey through the tarot temple where the card that most wishes to work with you reveals itself. Through a guided meditation you will meet the energy, message or wisdom that is waiting for you within the cards.  In our final week we explore tarot as a tool for self-reflection and transformation. Together we will look at archetypes, shadow cards, repeating cards and the ways tarot can guide us towards deeper self-understanding and future possibilities.  You can access all of this through the sorceress tier for £8 a month and can be cancelled at any time.   https://patreon.com/TheHedgeandHollow?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Join us through The Witches who run with the Wolves tier for a Litha gathering on Thursday 18th June via zoom from 7pm UK time. A replay will be live the following day if you cannot make it on the day. We will be looking at the origins of Litha, how you can celebrate it, a Litha meditation and a chance for the coven to catch up and celebrate together. Its £13 to sign up through this tier and you can cancel at any time.  https://patreon.com/TheHedgeandHollow?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink For PR, Media, general enquiries please email me at carly@thewhitewitchcompany.co.uk Find me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thewhitewitchpodcast/?hl=en-gb Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Please note this is part 2 of Carla's interview. Today I am joined by Carla from our coven to talk about death, grief, poisonous plants, her craft and a whole lot more in this episode! This is part one as the interview was so long my software couldn't cope with the duration so I have released as a two parter. Carla Valentine is a qualified Senior Mortuary Technician, and is currently the human remains conservator at Barts Pathology Museum in London. Her career caring for the dead has spanned over 20 years. She is a writer and broadcaster, featuring on TV shows such as The Bone Detectives, Fatberg Autopsy and Ancient Unexplained Files, and has a podcast called Mortem on BBC Sounds. Her first book, Past Mortems, documents her career carrying out autopsies for a decade, and the follow up, The Language of Bones - out October 1st 2026 - is a deeper exploration of death practices and the human condition. She also penned Murder Isn't Easy: The Forensics of Agatha Christie, and her next book, Planted Evidence - all about gardens, graves and poisonous plants - will be published in 2028. Carla's career informs her craft and she incorporates death meditation (mortality salience) into her practice as well as the use of body fluids and bones. She runs a small goth gardening business called Morticulture and is obsessed with the dark side of horticulture and its history. You can find Carla here - Website: www.carlavalentine.co.uk Insta (human remains/work): @past_mortems Insta (personal): @carlavalentineuk Insta (Morticulture): @morticult Tik Tok: @carlavalentineuk Our book review is Collected Curiosities - More Stories and Recipes from the Historical Apothecary Cabinet by Amanda Edmiston. Find my newly released The Book of Tides, a seasonal grimoire that explores the Summer Solstice through a look at the element of water. We begin with the history and traditions of Litha but the heart of this book is devoted to the mysteries of sacred waters.  Inside you will find the origins, folklore, correspondences and magickal themes of Litha. Tarot/oracle abd journal prompts for Litha, Solar Magick, making Sun Water and how to use it in your craft, a Sun invocation ritual, a delve into the element of water, its magickal correspondences, symbolism and working with its energy in your craft, Waters of the Otherworld - sacred wells, enchanted springs, Celtic lore, Arthurian legend, sea spirits, the River Styx, Achilles and ancient beliefs surrounding magickal waters. We also look at Waters of the Witch including the folklore and magickal uses of black water, brackish water, dew, fog, hail, fountain/well water, war water, ice, rain water, river/lake, sea, marsh and waterfall water. Also how it was used by witches, healers and cunning folk traditionally. Learn how to make Witch's Holy Water, explore moon water and guidance on the magickal properties and uses of water from the full, waxing, waning, dark and new moon phases. We also look at mermaids, selkies and witchcraft connected to them. We look at Midsummers Eve and its ancient connection to dream and intuitive magick, the witchs grimoire and some kitchen witchery. Alongside the zine you can order The Book of Tides witch box that includes hand dressed anointed spell candles - The Love Witch blend incorporating rose oil, rose petals, chamomile and lavender for use in self love, confidence, manifestation rituals and spell work. The Love Witch herb blend for spell jars/bags, rituals, spell work, bath rituals or offerings. Wheel of the Year altar image and incense sticks also included. I ship all over the globe and am a five star Etsy seller - order here - Patreons can benefit from 15% discount - https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/4520151444/the-book-of-tides-a-litha-witch-box Join us in The Hedge & Hollow to join our Tarot theme. We begin by exploring the history and spirit of tarot, looking at the different ways the cards can be used and how to build a meaningful relationship with your deck.  We explore the foundations of tarot including the four suits, the four elements, numbers, court cards and the rich symbolism that runs through the deck. Journey through the tarot temple where the card that most wishes to work with you reveals itself. Through a guided meditation you will meet the energy, message or wisdom that is waiting for you within the cards.  In our final week we explore tarot as a tool for self-reflection and transformation. Together we will look at archetypes, shadow cards, repeating cards and the ways tarot can guide us towards deeper self-understanding and future possibilities.  You can access all of this through the sorceress tier for £8 a month and can be cancelled at any time.   https://patreon.com/TheHedgeandHollow?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Join us through The Witches who run with the Wolves tier for a Litha gathering on Thursday 18th June via zoom from 7pm UK time. A replay will be live the following day if you cannot make it on the day. We will be looking at the origins of Litha, how you can celebrate it, a Litha meditation and a chance for the coven to catch up and celebrate together. Its £13 to sign up through this tier and you can cancel at any time.  https://patreon.com/TheHedgeandHollow?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink For PR, Media, general enquiries please email me at carly@thewhitewitchcompany.co.uk Find me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thewhitewitchpodcast/?hl=en-gb Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tim leads the community through a contemplative exploration of vulnerability and intimacy, picking up the thread from Doug's recent teaching on the significant self. Opening with a prayer to lift the heaviness of the season, Tim moves from Paul's thorn in the flesh to the myth of Achilles — reading the famous heel as the humble, grounded place where we meet our own finitude and our shadow. He traces the etymology of vulnerable (the capacity to be wounded), weighs the doctrine of divine impassibility against the image of a suffering, woundable Creator, and draws on Richard Rohr and C.S. Lewis to argue that we become only through letting others change us. Turning to the research of Reis and Shaver, he frames intimacy as a reciprocal four-step loop — perceiving, understanding, validating, caring — that resolves not in fusion but in cared-for difference. The heart of the session rests on the one place in the Law of One where Ra speaks of intimacy between two entities: our Creator-to-Creator relationship with the Logos. Tim closes with Dunbar's number and a fractal model of how intimacy scales, the green-ray "razor's edge" of staying open while declining to be harmed, and an original parable — The Parable of the Crossing — on surrender as the only way across the deep. Members contribute reflections on humility in counseling and parenting, vulnerability in a season of relocation, and an intimate encounter of being fully seen. Key References Ra, Session 65.17 — Our relationship to the Logos (sun) as Creator-to-Creator rather than parent-to-child; widening the field of "eyeshot" across the one infinite creation. (The single use of "intimacy" between two entities in the Law of One.) Ra, Session 32.14 — Green-ray activation is always vulnerable to the yellow or orange ray of possession; the four possession distortions (fear/desire of possessing and being possessed) that deactivate green-ray energy transfer. 2 Corinthians 12 — Paul's thorn in the flesh; power made perfect in weakness. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5) — Eight blessings read as corresponding to the eight densities and to aspects of an open heart. The myth of Achilles — Thetis, the River Styx, and the heel as the site of shadow and embodiment. Richard Rohr — Jesus as the naked, vulnerable infant; becoming through relationship. C.S. Lewis, The Four Loves — To love at all is to be vulnerable; the locked-away heart. Harry Reis & Phillip Shaver — The interpersonal process model of intimacy. Robin Dunbar — Dunbar's number (~150) and the nested layers of social bonding. Erich Fromm — "I love the whole world through you." David Hawkins, Letting Go — Surrender and release. Brené Brown — Vulnerability as willingness to be seen without guarantee of outcome. Original parable: The Parable of the Crossing (Tim).

Join me on todays episode for a discussion with of my all time favourite YouTubers/Podcasters Sinead Hanna to talk all about the genre of horror. Sinead talks all about the origins of her love for the macabre, the psychology of horror and why and when it is common for many of us to seek comfort in it. We talk about early horror interests - think Point Horror books, Ghost Watch and Hammer House of Horror. Sinead also shares some of her favourite horror reads and movies overall but also for Summerween. I have picked up a ton of inspiration on books and movies to watch through Sineads work, she really knows her onions for this genre! https://www.youtube.com/@SineadHannaCraic instagram.com/sineadhannacraic You can also find Sinead over on The Poisoners Cabinet podcast . https://www.thepoisonerscabinet.com/ As mentioned here is a link to The Woman in Black if you fancy watching it - The film starts at around 7 minutes in - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tf1LSoMoeMc Our book review today is my zine The Book of Tides - The Book of Tides is a seasonal grimoire that explores the Summer Solstice through a look at the element of water. We begin with the history and traditions of Litha but the heart of this book is devoted to the mysteries of sacred waters.  Inside you will find the origins, folklore, correspondences and magickal themes of Litha. Tarot/oracle abd journal prompts for Litha, Solar Magick, making Sun Water and how to use it in your craft, a Sun invocation ritual, a delve into the element of water, its magickal correspondences, symbolism and working with its energy in your craft, Waters of the Otherworld - sacred wells, enchanted springs, Celtic lore, Arthurian legend, sea spirits, the River Styx, Achilles and ancient beliefs surrounding magickal waters. We also look at Waters of the Witch including the folklore and magickal uses of black water, brackish water, dew, fog, hail, fountain/well water, war water, ice, rain water, river/lake, sea, marsh and waterfall water. Also how it was used by witches, healers and cunning folk traditionally. Learn how to make Witch's Holy Water, explore moon water and guidance on the magickal properties and uses of water from the full, waxing, waning, dark and new moon phases. We also look at mermaids, selkies and witchcraft connected to them. We look at Midsummers Eve and its ancient connection to dream and intuitive magick, the witchs grimoire and some kitchen witchery. Alongside the zine you can order The Book of Tides witch box that includes hand dressed anointed spell candles - The Love Witch blend incorporating rose oil, rose petals, chamomile and lavender for use in self love, confidence, manifestation rituals and spell work. The Love Witch herb blend for spell jars/bags, rituals, spell work, bath rituals or offerings. Wheel of the Year altar image and incense sticks also included. I ship all over the globe and am a five star Etsy seller - order here - Patreons can benefit from 15% discount - https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/4520151444/the-book-of-tides-a-litha-witch-box Join us in The Hedge & Hollow to join our Tarot theme starting shortly. We begin by exploring the history and spirit of tarot, looking at the different ways the cards can be used and how to build a meaningful relationship with your deck.  We explore the foundations of tarot including the four suits, the four elements, numbers, court cards and the rich symbolism that runs through the deck. Journey through the tarot temple where the card that most wishes to work with you reveals itself. Through a guided meditation you will meet the energy, message or wisdom that is waiting for you within the cards.  In our final week we explore tarot as a tool for self-reflection and transformation. Together we will look at archetypes, shadow cards, repeating cards and the ways tarot can guide us towards deeper self-understanding and future possibilities.  You can access all of this through the sorceress tier for £8 a month and can be cancelled at any time.   https://patreon.com/TheHedgeandHollow?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Join us through The Witches who run with the Wolves tier for a Litha gathering on Thursday 18th June via zoom from 7pm UK time. A replay will be live the following day if you cannot make it on the day. We will be looking at the origins of Litha, how you can celebrate it, a Litha meditation and a chance for the coven to catch up and celebrate together. Its £13 to sign up through this tier and you can cancel at any time.  https://patreon.com/TheHedgeandHollow?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink For PR, Media, general enquiries please email me at carly@thewhitewitchcompany.co.uk Find me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thewhitewitchpodcast/?hl=en-gb Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Monica Macansantos joins Let's Talk Memoir for a conversation about organizing her collection of essays around her father's very sudden and unexpected passing, not being sure she could write again, when common themes begin to emerge, connecting with loved ones through writing, recognizing and exploring complicated relationships with a home town and home country, feeling othered, the literary scene in the Phillipines, how writing takes a level of privilege, modeling literary citizenship, deepening our narrative journeys and allowing ourselves to go places we didn't plan, growing up in a colonized land, leaning into the discomfort of writing, giving shape to grief, taking risks, and her new essay collection Returning to My Father's Kitchen.   Ronit's in-person Fall Workshop - Writing Dynamic Memoir: From Lived Experience to Gripping Story  https://www.lmcmurtrylitcenter.org/workshops/writing-dynamic-memoir-from-lived-experience-to-gripping-story   Also in this episode: -gatekeeping in writing -thinking about what home is -when the puzzle pieces come together   Books mentioned in this episode: The Art of Revision by Peter Ho Davies The Glass Eye by Jeannie Vanasco  Memorial Drive by Natasha Tretheway The Memory Eaters by Elizabeth  The Second Tree from the Corner by E.B. White cut after 37:40-37:54 start 37:55 begin “I think I connected”   Monica Macansantos is the author of the essay collection, Returning to My Father's Kitchen (Curbstone/Northwestern University Press, 2025), and the story collection, Love and Other Rituals (Grattan Street Press, 2022). She was a 2024-25 Shearing Fellow with the Black Mountain Institute in Las Vegas, and a 2025 Marguerite & Lamar Smith Fellow with the Carson McCullers Center in Columbus, Georgia. Her work has recently appeared in Electric Lit, River Styx, Lit Hub, Bennington Review, and Poor Yorick, among others. Her honors include a James A. Michener Fellowship from the University of Texas at Austin, and residencies from Hedgebrook, the Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Arts, the Storyknife Writers Retreat, the I-Park Foundation, and Monson Arts.    Connect with Monica: Website: https://monicamacansantos.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madamebutchay/ Bluesky: @missmacansantos.bsky.social   Purchase Book: Purchase Returning to My Father's Kitchen from Northwestern University Press: https://nupress.northwestern.edu/9780810148390/returning-to-my-fathers-kitchen/ Or from Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/p/books/returning-to-my-father-s-kitchen-essays-monica-macansantos/8c4605e505fd4de8?ean=9780810148390&next=t&next=t Or from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Returning-My-Fathers-Kitchen-Essays/dp/0810148390/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 – Ronit's writing has appeared in The Atlantic, The Rumpus, The New York Times, Poets & Writers, The Iowa Review, Hippocampus, The Washington Post, Writer's Digest, American Literary Review, and elsewhere. Her memoir WHEN SHE COMES BACK about the loss of her mother to the guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and their eventual reconciliation was named Finalist in the 2021 Housatonic Awards Awards, the 2021 Indie Excellence Awards, and was a 2021 Book Riot Best True Crime Book. Her short story collection HOME IS A MADE-UP PLACE won Hidden River Arts' 2020 Eludia Award and the 2023 Page Turner Awards for Short Stories.  She earned an MFA in Nonfiction Writing at Pacific University, is Creative Nonfiction Editor at The Citron Review, and teaches memoir through the University of Washington's Online Continuum Program and also independently. She launched Let's Talk Memoir in 2022, lives in Seattle with her family of people and dogs, and is at work on her next book.   More about Ronit: https://ronitplank.com Subscribe to Ronit's Substack: https://substack.com/@ronitplank Follow Ronit: https://www.instagram.com/ronitplank/ https://www.facebook.com/RonitPlank https://bsky.app/profile/ronitplank.bsky.social  

Author Sam Wachman joins us as our April MomAdvice Book Club pick to discuss The Sunflower Boys, a powerful coming-of-age story set during the war in Ukraine. This week, Sam Wachman joins Book Gang to discuss The Sunflower Boys, our April MomAdvice Book Club pick. This story offers a remarkable blend of the tenderness of boyhood and the brutality of war, set against the backdrop of the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, bringing to life its heartbreaking history. As the brothers in this story undertake a harrowing journey across a war-torn landscape, a love of art becomes both guide and witness, leading these two boys toward hope and a desperate reunion with their father. Wachman offers a war chronicle and an intimate, profoundly human portrayal of the enduring spirit of family, deeply humanizing the Ukrainian struggle. In this remarkable conversation, we discuss:

Send us Fan MailThe insanity ramps up, as our team of stalwart heroes hits the beaches of Hell itself, only to find that the battle is not at all what they expected. This one is big time action and big time disgusting. Let's do this. Listen through the end credits and find out how to get TWO bonus episodes!The Dress Rehearsal, a Patreon exclusive that sets the stage for everything to come.and Vampires Do Not Exist, a weird tale about a man who drinks blood to survive, just not in the way you would expect.Music by --Matte Black – Dust of this PlanetSoularflair – Call of the Void, Slow Poison of an Endless Fantasy, Manik KineticSchemawound – A Feeling of Detachment, Teach Your Children About Magnetic NorthSarin – Ocean BurnAll available, and so much more, at FreeMusicArchive.orgPlease subscribe through Buzzsprout, Stitcher, Spotify, Podchaser, or iTunesFind me on social media on Instagram Facebook and Twitter, or email me direct at AScaryHomeCompanion@gmail.comSupport the show

Garfield lore and the reality of adversarial thought forms.Sumo's comprehensive guide to understanding, perceiving and combating mythological creatures.Ideas exist even if nobody currently holds them.Memes and genes. People don't have ideas, ideas have people.Numerical PlatonismDemons vs memes, Cognitohazards and non-human incorporeal beings.Containment methods.The anti-meme, self-keeping secrets, what if everyone's already seen Bigfoot ten thousand times.Change blindness, the brain is a filter.The barrier between science and faith, matter and spirit, brain and mind, does not exist.A case study of lethal earworm.A romance of many dimensions.Evidence you are always conscious.The River Styx and the Myth of Er.Identifying gaps in cognition, radical skepticism of one's own knowledge of the world.Defense against memetics is possible although difficult.Olympics talk and games Kavi played as a kid in Canada.Support the showMore Linkswww.MAPSOC.orgFollow Sumo on TwitterAlternate Current RadioMAPSOC back on YouTube Again!Support the Show!Subscribe to the Podcast on GumroadSubscribe to the Podcast on PatreonSubscribe to the Podcast on BuzzsproutSubscribe to the Podcast on SubstackBuy Us a Tibetan Herbal TeaSumo's SubstacksHoly is He Who WrestlesModern Pulp

The Yard of Hard Drives Episode: Throwing Hands with Backlogs, The Literal Yard, Drives Cast Out, The Grind of Pain, Survivorship Bias, The Success and the Failure, The Arcane Nature of Repair, The Realization of Entropy, The River Styx.I find myself staring down many, many hard drives left in the yard, and try to find value and rescue in what I can get. It's going fine! But it's noisy.

The ancient Egyptians buried their pharaohs with gold and other riches so they could enjoy them in the next life. The Greeks believed that their dead were carried across the River Styx on a boat. Throughout history, virtually all cultures and religions have set forth diverse ideas about life after death. Where can we find truthful, reliable answers to this most important question? Tune in to Dr. Barnhouse to find out. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/791/29?v=20251111

Welcome kiddos! For the second installment of our 8th Annual Harvest Horror Fest Mike, Matt, and Ma chat about a nice AI themed killer robot horror flick M3GAN 2.0 starring Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, and Amie Donald. Not Terminator rip-off topics include Tron: Ares, the River Styx, and crazy pets. Next week we hit the theaters for the second time this HHF to check out Black Phone 2 starring Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, and Madeleine McGraw. Thanks for tuning in. We will be back next week with another episode of the Reel Film Nerds Podcast! You can find us on all things social such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or X. We also have an awesome community you can join, click here to check out our Facebook Fan Group so you can yell at Mike and Matt from the comfort of your keyboard while talking about films. Lastly we have an amazing website where you can watch trailers, read the host's bios, listen to the podcast, and get a ton more info on the movies we review.  Check out the link here https://www.ReelFilmNerds.com Thanks for stopping by and listening to our podcast, we appreciate each and everyone of you. Finally go out and catch as many movies as you can!

This week, we start our look at the dragons native to the Outer Planes with the Lawful Evil quadrant of D&D's Great Wheel cosmology.  Join us as we look at the dragons native to Acheron, Baator, Gehenna, and Hades, as well as the impressive Shadowdrakes living in the River Styx.   Our website is live! Head on over to undercommontaste.com to find links to all of our social media, streaming sites, Patreon, Itch store, and Discord. Our theme song is Massacre Anne, written and performed by Mary Crowell, and used with permission. You can find Mary's work online at marycrowell.bandcamp.com, or on Patreon at patreon.com/DrMaryCCrowell. Our logo was illustrated by David Sutherland. You can find David's work online at instagram.com/wilex_73, or on DeviantArt at deviantart.com/davidsutherland.

Weekly shoutout: A new essay on HowlRound by theatermaker and friend of the show, Anne Mason! -- Hi there, Today I am delighted to be arts calling author Monica Macansantos! (monicamacansantos.com) About our guest: Monica Macansantos is a Filipino writer from Baguio, and is currently a Marguerite and Lamar Smith Fellow with the Carson McCullers Center in Columbus, Georgia. She is the author of the essay collection, Returning to My Father's Kitchen (Curbstone/Northwestern University Press, 2025), and the story collection, Love and Other Rituals (Grattan Street Press), 2022. She was a 2024-25 Shearing Fellow with the Black Mountain Institute at UNLV, and her work has appeared in Colorado Review, The Hopkins Review, Bennington Review, River Styx, Electric Literature, Literary Hub, and Katherine Mansfield and Children (Edinburgh University Press), among other places. She earned her MFA from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, and her PhD in Creative Writing from the Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand. Her work has been recognized as Notable in Best American Essays 2016 and 2021-2023. RETURNING TO MY FATHER'S KITCHEN, now available from Northwestern University Press/Curbstone Books: Purchase from Northwestern University Press: https://nupress.northwestern.edu/9780810148390/returning-to-my-fathers-kitchen/ From Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/returning-to-my-father-s-kitchen-essays-monica-macansantos/ Purchase from Book People in Austin, which sells signed copies of the book! https://bookpeople.com/book/9780810148390 Also from Monica, LOVE & OTHER RITUALS, a collection of stories: https://www.monicamacansantos.com/loveandotherritualsselectedstories.html Thanks for this amazing conversation, Monica! All the best! Arts Calling is produced by Jaime Alejandro. HOW TO SUPPORT ARTS CALLING: PLEASE CONSIDER LEAVING A REVIEW, OR SHARING THIS EPISODE WITH A FRIEND! YOUR SUPPORT TRULY MAKES A DIFFERENCE! Much love, j artscalling.com

In this immersive episode hosts Chelle and Laylla dive deep into the sacred waters of witchcraft and explore the mystical realm of the Water Element. Flowing through ancient myths and modern magick, the witches wade into the emotional, intuitive, and transformative powers of water. From sacred springs and holy wells to the River Styx and moonlit oceans, water has long been revered as a liminal force. It is a portal between worlds, a vessel of healing, and a mirror of the soul.The witches explore how water connects us to dreams, psychic intuition, and emotional depth, while also being the element of purification, change, and surrender. They talk about practical magickal techniques to work with water in your own practice, from ritual baths and moon water, to scrying and offerings, to water spirits.So pour a cup of tea, run a bath, or listen near your favorite stream. This episode invites you to remember: Water shared is life shared. May you never thirst.Got a question? Send the witches a message here!Support the showWant to send us a letter? Witchy things to review?We have a mailing address!Back on the BroomstickPO Box 106Salem MA 01970Email: backonthebroomstick@gmail.comYoutube FacebookInstagramBack on the Broomstick Website

Toward the end of our conversation with Matt Fraction, he mentions how his upcoming Batman book with Jorge Jiménez represents where his Hawkeye series would have gone if he and David Aja had continued. What does that mean, exactly? It's complicated, and you'll just have to listen to this week's podcast to fully understand. And that's what we call in the biz, a big ol' tease. Our chat with Matt Fraction concludes our San Diego Comic-Con International coverage, and we're so frickin' excited that we get to do so with this writer and this creation. As longtime listeners know, Batman is one of our boys, and the character has never been in as many good hands as he is right now at DC. Beyond this new Batman relaunch with Fraction and Jiménez, we have stellar titles in Absolute Batman, Batman and Robin, Batman and Robin: Year One, Batman: Dark Patterns, and probably a half dozen books we're forgetting about at this moment. Batman, created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, first appeared in Detective Comics #27, published on March 30th, 1939. The character's longevity makes him indestructible. He won't break, no matter what Matt Fraction and Jorge Jiménez do to him. This comes with tremendous freedom, allowing Fraction and Jiménez to throw everything of themselves into the character, and their longevity on the line will ultimately be determined by us, the readers. Having read the first two issues in the new series, we can happily report that Matt Fraction and Jorge Jiménez's take on the character is very much our jam, and rather unique from the other excellent flavors you can find on the stand every month. Their Batman operates in a semi-one-and-done structure, embracing the medium of comics while still satisfying those who crave long-haul storytelling. Mostly, it's a fun as hell ride that looks slick. These are superhero comics that are not afraid to be superhero comics. They're damn proud of it, in fact. However, before we dive into all the Batman talk with Matt Fraction, we must regale you with our recent comic shop road trip to Richmond and Virginia Beach, Virginia. We did it, gang. We've already completed our mission to visit fifty comic book shops in fifty-two weeks. We've learned a lot from this experiment, and we need to discuss both the wonderful and not-so-wonderful aspects we've observed in these stores. Strap in for some serious retail talk. Batman #1 is written by Matt Fraction, illustrated by Jorge Jiménez, colored by Tomeu Morey, lettered by Clayton Cowles, and published by DC. The first issue arrives in comic book shops on September 3rd. Our SDCC Coverage: Eric Powell and Harold Schechter on "Dr. Werthless" Alex Segura on Star Wars Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing on Thunderbolts Learn Oni Press SDCC Battle Plans Chip Zdarsky on Zdarsky Comic News Daniel Warren Johnson Live at Now Or Never Comics Gene Luen Yang and Andrew Joustra on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles This Week's Sponsors We're sponsored by 2000 AD, the greatest comic you're not reading! Within its pages is a whole universe of characters, from Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog to Rogue Trooper, Shakara, Halo Jones, and the poor sods slogging across the Cursed Earth in The Helltrekkers. Get a print subscription at your door every week - and the first issue is free! Or subscribe digitally, get free back issues, and download DRM-free copies of each issue for just $9 a month. That's 128 pages of incredible monthly comics for less than $10. Do you want in on the biggest secret in comics today? IDW Publishing's Godzilla line of books is comics' greatest secret weapon. They're constantly snagging rockstar creators like James Stokoe, Tom Scioli, Andrew MacLean, Louie Joyce, Jake Smith, Eric Powell, Rosie Knight, and Oliver Ono to unleash their talents on cinema's most significant kaiju universe. And this July, IDW is taking their Godzilla books to the next level by introducing the Kei-Sei era. This new shared universe line begins with Godzilla #1 by Tim Seeley and Nikola Čižmešija. There's a new Godzilla design, a mess load of Kaiju antagonists…and protagonists - plus, superpowered human characters. Thanks to IDW Publishing, it's a good time to be a fan of the Big G and quality comics. Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Subscribe to the CBCC YouTube Channel and Prepare for The Stacks Brad and Lisa Gullickson in The Stacks at Third Eye Comics Sanford Greene in The Stacks at Third Eye Comics Philip Kennedy Johnson in The Stacks at Third Eye Comics Steve Anderson in The Stacks at Third Eye Comics David Brothers and Chip Zdarsky in The Stacks at Third Eye Comics Benjamin Percy in the Stacks at Third Eye Comics Join Comic Book Club in Person Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): Support the Podcast by Joining OUR PATREON COMMUNITY. The Comic Book Couples Counseling TeePublic Merch Page. Don't forget to grab your tickets for our August 23rd Alamo Drafthouse Winchester screening of Lone Wolf and Cub: Babycart on the River Styx, co-sponsored by Four Color Fantasies. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook, on Instagram, and on Bluesky @CBCCPodcast, and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren. Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-star Review on Apple Podcasts. Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website, where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Jesse Lonergan and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou.

What's behind all the Achilles tendon injuries in the NBA? Are they really tearing more often? Why? Lee and Gray delve into the numbers, the potential causes, and how the NBA's not alone in increased injury stats. From training volume to low-top shoes, to supplements, they look at everything in what opens up into a broad conversation about risk and the compounding effect of movement and lifestyle risk factors. Go upstream (on the River Styx - bonus points if you get it) with Lee and Gray to see how we can solve what can often be a career-ending injury.Curious what your wellness score is? Check it out for free!https://www.symmio.co/whats-your-wellness-scoreMovement Masterclass: Mobilityhttps://www.functionalmovement.com/Store/246/movement_masterclass_mobilityMovement Masterclass: Stabilityhttps://www.functionalmovement.com/Store/247/movement_masterclass_stabilityPast Injury data: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11558755/Vaccine and tendonitis:https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.11.14.23298544v1.fullCorticosteroids and tissue weakening:https://www.theinjuryexpertz.com/the-rise-of-achilles-tears-in-the-nfl/Functional Movement Systems YouTube Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) Subscribe to the FMS Newsletter

An episode that rewrites what “Success” means for autistic writers!In Episode 146 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon is joined by Christina Sokora Jovovich, a gifted autistic writer, poet, and fiber artist, to dive into the meaning of “success” through the lens of neurodivergent experience.This conversation explores how writing can be both a healing tool and a radical act of self-definition for neurodivergent people. From redefining creative productivity to unmasking through memoir, Christina and Angela break down internalized ableism, the pressure of neurotypical success standards, and the value of sensory-soothing creative practices like knitting and journaling.All this, and we announce our amazing winners from our eighth writing contest!Here are our top two entries.OUR WINNER

Producer Bonnie Harrison turns the tables on the quizmaster and takes a closer look at some of this week's quiz questions.

M

The book club encounters familiar friends and dangerous new enemies as they attempt to travel across Hell on the River Styx!Follow the podcast's socials!Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@talltale_tavern_podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@TalltaleTavernPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@TalltaleTavernPodcast⁠⁠⁠Plus, join our ⁠⁠discord!⁠Thank you to our players! Brooke Adelsperger as Namby the Harengon Cleric (@gimme.dim.biscuits)Becca Essig as Hugh the Half Troll Fighter (@beccaessig)Scott Esmond as M'Tiro the Fire Genasi BardBrian DaVault as Bick the Half-Elf BardRyan Singerman as Sylvara the Tiefling Rogue/WarlockTalltale Tavern Theme song by Tyler AdelspergerPodcast Artwork by ⁠Zaezar (twitch.tv/zaezar)⁠Additional Music: Celtic Ambiance by Alexander Nakarada Tranquil Fields by Alexander NakaradaBattlefield by Alexander Nakarada(www.serpentsoundstudios.com)

Join us for the second episode of Quad Pro Quo Sequels month where we discuss Matt's pick of Lone Wolf and Cub: Baby Cart at the River Styx and answer questions like:What is your favorite Final Destination death?Do you know about chub rub?andDid Tammy & Guido watch the wrong movie?Learn all about Quad Pro Quo at: https://linktr.ee/quadproquopod

General surgeon Arthur Williams discusses his article "A surgeon's battle with ketamine-induced hallucinations." He shares an account from his novel of an experience needing a pacemaker for a "janky heart" prone to atrial fibrillation and bradycardia (sick sinus node), complicated by a low ejection fraction. Arthur vividly describes the anxiety and vulnerability of being a surgeon on the patient side of the gown, his candid and sometimes critical inner thoughts during interactions with the nursing staff and anesthesiologist, and the specific fear associated with the invasive procedure. He recounts the anesthesiologist's decision to use ketamine due to its less cardiodepressive effects, despite warning of potential "weird dreams." Arthur then details the profound and disorienting visual hallucinations—kaleidoscopes of fire, burning apparitions, and a sense of crossing the River Styx—that occurred after the ketamine was administered, offering a raw look at the potential side effects of anesthesia from a physician's unique vantage point. Our presenting sponsor is Microsoft Dragon Copilot. Microsoft Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow, is transforming how clinicians work. Now you can streamline and customize documentation, surface information right at the point of care, and automate tasks with just a click. Part of Microsoft Cloud for Healthcare, Dragon Copilot offers an extensible AI workspace and a single, integrated platform to help unlock new levels of efficiency. Plus, it's backed by a proven track record and decades of clinical expertise—and it's built on a foundation of trust. It's time to ease your administrative burdens and stay focused on what matters most with Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended

Send us a textWe've been exploring bridges, these last weeks, intersections, spaces where dark meets light, sleep meets awake, East meets West, the physical meets the spiritual, science meets art, and this week, that bridge takes us across the River Styx.This week, I'd like to share a little continuing education class I created for someone I love dearly. Her language as a lifelong educator is continuing education; coursework to keep credentials current, so I echoed that familiar language, using the same methods, including worksheets. The course, which is a conversation, meant to build a bridge from this life to what happens after that last breath.Why? The fear of death can keep us from living a full life.  If we can overcome our initial aversion, I'm not saying becoming full-on comfortable with our imminent death, but familiar with the process, examine (and call out) at our preconceived notions and ideas, clear away old programming, and then use our imaginations to picture what we want to experience after death? Well, at worst, it is a thought experiment that makes our final days more peaceful; at best, we impact the death experience, creating a less jarring transition from life to afterlife. I don't see a downside to recognizing that one day all of us will expire.Overcoming fears of death leads to a full-spectrum life experience. Let death control our every thought? It's the equivalent of wearing a dog cone - those clumsy plastic haloes we put on our beloved pets so they won't gnaw on a hot spot or pull out fresh stitches. Bulky, awkward, they impede vision, movement, the path forward. And the sad truth is, we've put those cones on ourselves to avoid thinking about, worrying, wondering or planning for what happens after we die. I worked in pediatric hospice as a volunteer fundraiser for nearly a decade. Hospice means the last 90 days of life, give or take, depending on the jurisdiction. And the pediatric part? Yep. Heartbreaking. I said yes to this work to pay it forward after our child had sepsis, and lived. I felt compelled to help others. What I learned is that there is medicine in living intentionally, and there is much to learn from end of life care.Country songs beg us to live like we are dying, philosophers recognize the power of staying in the present moment; social media and therapists alike ask us to live out loud, to stretch past our comfort zones, say the things to loved ones now, and make plans to do the trips or visits now, not to put off living until all the planets align. All of that is huge. I produced an entire show  about conquering the fear of death in season one. It's worth a listen.But, today we are on the edge of the River Styx. I'm holding your hand. We will be okay, better than okay for having dwelled here. Let's talk about our last exhales.What to Listen/Watch/Read NEXTConquering (or at least coHave you tried the GoodPods app yet? It's free and a fun way to share podcasts with friends and family! Curious Cat Podcast is there, and is sitting pretty in the Top 5 of Angels and other categories! Be one of the first to share and recommend podcasts to your friends. Curious Cat Crew on Socials:Curious Cat on Twitter (X)Curious Cat on InstagramCurious Cat on TikTokArt Director, Nora, has a handmade, ethically-sourced jewelry company!

Welcome back to The Metal Maniacs Presents, hosted by your favorite riff-jockeys Jay Ingersoll and Modd. We're dropping into the pit once again for the 15th installment of our Reaction Series—where we hit play, throw horns, and dive deep into the latest from underground and unsigned metal acts around the globe.This week, we're getting blasted from every direction—Portugal, Greece, Ohio, Michigan, Texas, New York—you name it. We've stacked the lineup with a killer mix of blackened doom, death metal, thrash, horror, and even culinary chaos. Buckle in, Maniacs. This one's loud.

What happens when the multiverse needs a place to stash its worst offenders? Enter Carcery, the D&D plane that's more sentence than setting. In this deep-dive episode, the RPGBOT crew cracks open the lore, layers, and lethal threats of Carcery—a prison plane where hope goes to die and escape is barely more than a myth. Explore the distinct environments of its six terrifying layers, from the overgrown deathtrap of the Scarlet Jungle to the soul-freezing expanse of Agathys. Discover the twisted ecosystem of beings who call this place home—whether they want to or not—including cursed creatures like the Varguile, the war-worn Shrieking Terror, and the manipulative aristocrats known as Demodans. The crew also journeys into the cursed gate town of Cursed, where fugitives rot and secrets fester. Learn about the arcane mechanics of entering (and barely escaping) this cruel dimension, and what it means for your next dark fantasy campaign. Whether you're looking to trap your players or unleash nightmares into your world, this episode is packed with insights, lore hooks, and storytelling fuel that turns Carcery into more than just a backdrop—it becomes the villain. Links 2014 Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link) 2024 Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link) Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes (affiliate link) Forgotten Realms Wiki - Carceri Stormwrack (DnD 3.5) (affiliate link) RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes The Abyss Archeron Arcadia The Beastlands Bytopia Celestia The Ethereal Plane The Feywild Hell Part 1 Hell Part 2 Limbo Mechanus Pandemonium Key Takeaways Carcery is D&D's ultimate prison plane—a multiversal Alcatraz where escape is nearly impossible. The structure includes six unique layers: Othrus (the “least bad”), Minethus, Colithus, Porphatys, and the frostbitten hell of Agathys. Travel is a nightmare: planetoids float independently, and the River Styx flows through them but offers no connection. Creatures within Carcery include: Varguile: cursed flying heads with grotesque powers. Demodans: cunning, cursed rulers of the plane, who avoid the Blood War and rebirth painfully if slain outside Carcery. Shrieking Terrors: monstrous weapons of war echoing the cruelty of the plane itself. Carcery connects to the multiverse but remains separate, with theoretical ties to various Prime worlds. The gate town of Cursed is a trap of its own: Slows movement and instills dread. Ruled by Shattor Demodan Villegas Bazangar. Home to bizarre residents like a green hag who manages the dump and a copper dragon in hiding. Lurks the Node, a Cranium Rat collective that trades secrets about the Lady of Pain. Escape is mythic—requiring rare spells, artifacts, or god-tier intervention. Even demons and devils avoid Carcery, a place so grim it makes the Blood War look inviting. Looking to bring a new kind of horror to your campaign? Carcery is a storytelling goldmine wrapped in despair. Whether your party's breaking in, breaking out, or just trying to survive, this episode will leave you cursed—in the best way. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games Twitter: @GravenAshes YouTube@ashravenmedia Randall James @JackAmateur Amateurjack.com Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

What happens when the multiverse needs a place to stash its worst offenders? Enter Carcery, the D&D plane that's more sentence than setting. In this deep-dive episode, the RPGBOT crew cracks open the lore, layers, and lethal threats of Carcery—a prison plane where hope goes to die and escape is barely more than a myth. Explore the distinct environments of its six terrifying layers, from the overgrown deathtrap of the Scarlet Jungle to the soul-freezing expanse of Agathys. Discover the twisted ecosystem of beings who call this place home—whether they want to or not—including cursed creatures like the Varguile, the war-worn Shrieking Terror, and the manipulative aristocrats known as Demodans. The crew also journeys into the cursed gate town of Cursed, where fugitives rot and secrets fester. Learn about the arcane mechanics of entering (and barely escaping) this cruel dimension, and what it means for your next dark fantasy campaign. Whether you're looking to trap your players or unleash nightmares into your world, this episode is packed with insights, lore hooks, and storytelling fuel that turns Carcery into more than just a backdrop—it becomes the villain. Links 2014 Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link) 2024 Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link) Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes (affiliate link) Forgotten Realms Wiki - Carceri Stormwrack (DnD 3.5) (affiliate link) RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes The Abyss Archeron Arcadia The Beastlands Bytopia Celestia The Ethereal Plane The Feywild Hell Part 1 Hell Part 2 Limbo Mechanus Pandemonium Key Takeaways Carcery is D&D's ultimate prison plane—a multiversal Alcatraz where escape is nearly impossible. The structure includes six unique layers: Othrus (the “least bad”), Minethus, Colithus, Porphatys, and the frostbitten hell of Agathys. Travel is a nightmare: planetoids float independently, and the River Styx flows through them but offers no connection. Creatures within Carcery include: Varguile: cursed flying heads with grotesque powers. Demodans: cunning, cursed rulers of the plane, who avoid the Blood War and rebirth painfully if slain outside Carcery. Shrieking Terrors: monstrous weapons of war echoing the cruelty of the plane itself. Carcery connects to the multiverse but remains separate, with theoretical ties to various Prime worlds. The gate town of Cursed is a trap of its own: Slows movement and instills dread. Ruled by Shattor Demodan Villegas Bazangar. Home to bizarre residents like a green hag who manages the dump and a copper dragon in hiding. Lurks the Node, a Cranium Rat collective that trades secrets about the Lady of Pain. Escape is mythic—requiring rare spells, artifacts, or god-tier intervention. Even demons and devils avoid Carcery, a place so grim it makes the Blood War look inviting. Looking to bring a new kind of horror to your campaign? Carcery is a storytelling goldmine wrapped in despair. Whether your party's breaking in, breaking out, or just trying to survive, this episode will leave you cursed—in the best way. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games Twitter: @GravenAshes YouTube@ashravenmedia Randall James @JackAmateur Amateurjack.com Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

Please join Julie Murphy as she chats with Santa Cruz County's new Poet Laureate, Nancy Miller Gomez, about poetry in the jails and her plans to bring poetry to our community. Nancy reads Ruth Stone's poem, Another Feeling, and talks about the importance of paying attention and how daily observations, memories and current events can ease the challenge of facing a blank page. Listen to Nancy read poems from her stunning debut collection Inconsolable Objects.Nancy Miller Gomez is the author of Inconsolable Objects (YesYes Books) and Punishment (Rattle Chapbook Series). Her work has appeared in Best American Poetry, Best New Poets, Prairie Schooner, TriQuarterly, The Adroit Journal, LitHub, Rattle, New Ohio Review, Massachusetts Review, River Styx, Verse Daily, The Hopkins Review, and elsewhere. She received a special mention in the 2023 Pushcart Prize Anthology and is the recipient of a fellowship from the Jentel Foundation. Gomez co-founded Poetry in the Jails, an organization that provides writing workshops to incarcerated women and men and has taught poetry in Salinas Valley State Prison, the Santa Cruz County Jails, the Juvenile Hall and as part of Cornell University's Prison Education Program. She earned a B.A. from The University of California, San Diego, a J.D. from the University of San Diego and a Master in Fine Arts in Writing from Pacific University. Originally from Kansas she now lives with her family in Northern California and is thrilled to have recently been appointed Poet Laureate of Santa Cruz County. She is currently working on a second collection of poems and a collection of personal essays.Don't miss the Poet Laureate Celebration at Bookshop Santa Cruz featuring Nancy Miller Gomez and Farnaz Fatemi. April 14, 7-9 PM.

Welcome back to season six of the NAS Podcast! In Episode Seven, Origin Crxss and Lisa Haden sit down with Dale Mangold from Forrest of Fanghorn to discuss his work with 20 guest musicians, being part of two bands simultaneously and being a cat dad for 8 million kitties.Forrest Of FangHorn is the dynamic project of renowned Pittsburgh-based saxophonist Dale Mangold, blending funk, jazz, rock, hip-hop, and R&B into a captivating musical fusion. Their debut album, Ents Marching, released on January 19, 2024, showcases this eclectic mix and features collaborations with over 20 guest musicians and vocalists. The album includes standout tracks like "The River Styx," "Got It (feat. Lil Lenny)," and "Things I See Today." Forrest Of FangHorn's music is available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify and TIDALNew Artist Spotlight is a community of indie musicians from around the globe. We believe in the power of numbers so we work together to promote each other's music. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where indie musicians can get their music heard and find their first fans.Join the community - https://www.newartistspotlight.org/

The Big Bank Theory is a podcast about Exeter City FC. In this episode, we can't believe that we've not made a Two Cities joke before, and also Steve Flack is every Dad's favourite isn't he?

Join the Amys as they embark on a journey down the River Styx with their cruise director, and death doula, Kate LaSala, Owner, Rescued By Training, LLC. The Amys discover what a death doula is, and how certified doulas help families navigate difficult end-of-life decisions. Kate also provides her unique perspective on the often “taboo” subject of behavioral euthanasia. Will the Amys encounter Cerberus on their journey? Grab a cocktail, and get up to speed on the latest buzzzzzz, courtesy of your favorite VBees

The ancient Egyptians buried their pharaohs with gold and other riches so they could enjoy them in the next life. The Greeks believed that their dead were carried across the River Styx on a boat. Throughout history, virtually all cultures and religions have set forth diverse ideas about life after death. Where can we find truthful, reliable answers to this most important question? Tune in to Dr. Barnhouse to find out. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/581/29

The ancient Egyptians buried their pharaohs with gold and other riches so they could enjoy them in the next life. The Greeks believed that their dead were carried across the River Styx on a boat. Throughout history, virtually all cultures and religions have set forth diverse ideas about life after death. Where can we find truthful, reliable answers to this most important question? Tune in to Dr. Barnhouse to find out. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/791/29

Nancy Miller Gomez grew up in Kansas, but currently lives in Santa Cruz, California. Her work has appeared or is forthcoming in Best American Poetry, Best New Poets, Prairie Schooner, TriQuarterly, The Adroit Journal, Shenandoah, New Ohio Review, Rattle, Massachusetts Review, River Styx, American Life in Poetry, Verse Daily, The Hopkins Review, and elsewhere. She received a special mention in the 2023 Pushcart Prize Anthology and her chapbook, Punishment, was published as part of the Rattle chapbook series. She has worked as a waitress, a stable hand, an attorney, and a television producer. She co-founded an organization that provides writing workshops to incarcerated women and men and has taught poetry in Salinas Valley State Prison, the Santa Cruz County Jails and the Juvenile Hall. She has a B.A. from The University of California, San Diego, a J.D. from the University of San Diego and a Master in Fine Arts in Writing from Pacific University. She is currently working on a collection of personal essays. Her first full-length poetry manuscript is now available from YesYes Books.

Welcome to the Beastlands, where the trees judge you, the clouds gossip, and there's a god who's just really into dinosaurs. In this week's episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we're diving headfirst into D&D's most feral vacation spot. We're talking everything from Beast Transformations (ever wonder what it's like to be your party's emotional support bear?) to power creep (aka: why your Fighter feels like a caveman next to the new classes). Ready to explore the Hunter's Paradise? Pack your polymorph spells and an extra can of bear spray—you're gonna need it. Summary Step into the wild and mysterious Beastlands, D&D's very own nature paradise with a twist! In this episode, the RPGBOT hosts explore one of the Outer Planes that isn't just green and beautiful—it's alive, it's hungry, and it might be slightly annoyed you're visiting. Our hosts begin with the Beastlands' unique layout, from lush forests and stunning landscapes that seem to be lifted straight out of a nature documentary to creatures you'd want to admire from way over there. They break down the gameplay impact of this vibrant world, where players might just find themselves turning into animals (ever seen a cleric turn into a duck? It's spiritual). They also dive into the 2014 Dungeon Master's Guide's Beastlands-specific rules, like the Hunter's Paradise and Beast Transformation. What does it mean for gameplay when players can tap into primal powers or even become their inner beasts? The hosts examine how these mechanics affect player strategy, survival, and the hilarious chaos that follows when everyone's suddenly sporting fur or feathers. As if that weren't enough, they get into the lore behind the inhabitants, including the Mortai—talking clouds with mysterious agendas—and Uptow, the dinosaur god who had a hand in creating Chult (because why not dinosaurs?). They go beyond just monsters, touching on the divine themes and wild escapism the Beastlands offer for players who are looking to connect with their inner animal (or just pet one). With plenty of laughs, some cheeky commentary on power creep, and a thorough look at balancing out a plane where nature and magic collide, this episode is your ticket to the Beastlands. Buckle up, roll your dice, and get ready for a chaotic adventure where even the plants might be rooting for you… or maybe just trying to eat you. Links 2024 Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link) RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes 2024 PLAYER'S HANDBOOK: The RPGBOT.Review Takeaways The Essence of Nature: The Beastlands embody nature's raw beauty and wildness, creating a vibrant and immersive fantasy setting. Talking Animals: Animals here have a voice, adding whimsy and depth to the experience and allowing for unexpected interactions. Layered Geography: The Beastlands' three layers each represent a different time of day, enhancing the environment's dynamic feel. Enhanced Senses: Food and drink taste extraordinarily delicious, amplifying the sensory magic of the plane. River Oceanus vs. River Styx: The River Oceanus provides a refreshing alternative to the notoriously dangerous River Styx, offering a peaceful waterway. Weather Control by Creatures: Fixed weather patterns can be influenced by local creatures, making climate part of the story. Moving Stars Challenge Navigation: Navigating by starlight is tricky here, as the stars are ever-shifting and hard to rely on. Camping Adventures: The hosts share humorous takes on the perils of camping in a plane as unpredictable as the Beastlands. Fantasy Escapism: The Beastlands reflect the importance of escapism, creating a realm that feels both enchanting and untamed. Cuddly Beastlands Vibe: The hosts express a longing for a friendlier, softer side of the Beastlands, beyond its more feral aspects. Hunter's Paradise Bonus: This feature amplifies hunting skills for all characters, blending survival with an edge of wild adventure. Beast Transformation Risks: The Beastlands' magic can lead to permanent changes, adding risk to transformation abilities. Contradictions in Hunting: The plane's nature both supports and challenges hunting, reflecting a complex relationship with the wild. Portal Access: Multiple portals allow players to reach the Beastlands, making it an accessible yet mystical destination. Animalistic Traits: Characters and creatures can gain animalistic features, adding to the plane's immersive quality. Spirits of the Wild: Deceased souls often take on animal forms here, intertwining the spirit world with nature. Uptow, the Dinosaur Deity: Uptow, associated with dinosaurs, adds an ancient, primal deity to the mix. Sentient Cloud Faces: The Mortai are mysterious, sentient faces in the clouds, offering cryptic guidance and intrigue. Labyrinth of Life: This jungle realm and the Forbidden Plateau introduce mysterious divine realms within the Beastlands. Survival and Food Complexity: Finding food in the Beastlands involves unique challenges, mirroring its wild spirit. Lack of Structures & Conflict: Permanent structures are rare, and conflicts are minimal, highlighting the untamed peace of the plane. Divine Realms Reflecting Deities: Realms like the Grove of Unicorns mirror their divine patrons, embodying the nature of the deities. Power Creep in Gameplay: The hosts discuss the dangers of “power creep” and how new character options can overshadow older classes. Enhancing without Overshadowing: New options should add excitement while respecting the value of classic character builds. Balance for Engagement: Balancing challenges in gameplay keeps adventures thrilling and accessible for all characters. Adapting Adventures: Game design must consider characters' evolving powers to maintain dynamic and engaging adventures. Peer Pressure from Powerful Subclasses: The rise of potent subclasses can create peer pressure, pushing players toward power. Prioritizing Inclusive Fun: Effective game design should foster fun for all players, regardless of their chosen character build. Maintaining Balance for Game Health: Balancing player power with challenges ensures a sustainable and enjoyable gaming environment. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games Twitter: @GravenAshes YouTube@ashravenmedia Randall James @JackAmateur Amateurjack.com Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

We're joined for the first time by Douglas Harper, proprietor of the world-renowned Online Etymology Dictionary (etymonline.com). He's here to help us with our Mailbag questions, and even test us in a game of Related or Not. In our Mailbag this time: What's the difference between DEPENDENCE and DEPENDENCY? Why is TONGUE spelled that way? What does it mean if reciting a tongue twister in your mind is just as hard as saying it out loud? Why is STYGIAN the adjective form of the River Styx? Why are WHY and BECAUSE the same in some languages? Timestamps Cold open: 0:00 Intros: 2:01 Questions for Douglas Harper: 9:16 Mailbag questions 1: 24:00 Related or Not: 41:24 Mailbag questions 2: 1:03:20 Comments: 1:14:18 The Reads: 1:18:00 Outtakes: 1:22:47

Therésa and the Haunting team took a short hiatus while Len took advantage of his timeshare at the River Styx, but things aren't quite back to normal. While dealing with intern issues and personal drama, Therésa shares JJ's experience as a late-night hospital security guard who was in over his head. We also met Priyanka, whose family Christmas celebration was more fitting for a tale set around the nightmare before... well, you get it.  If you would like to reach out to the Haunting team and share your own ghost story, email us at HauntingThePodcast@gmail.com.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Hidden Oracle, ch. 15 to 18 This week on Unwise Girls we talk about a genuine day in the life at Camp Half-Blood, the promise of five straight bangers, murder mystery stylings, how angry we are about Rick writing out our favorite character, swerving deep into the River Styx very suddenly, birth dads, the religion of science, 4000 year old failboys, and how you can play with mythical notoriety. Come back next week for The Hidden Oracle, ch. 19 to 22! Check out our Patreon! (https://www.patreon.com/unwisegirls) Follow the show (https://twitter.com/unwisegirls) Join our Discord! (https://discord.gg/XnhhwzKQ8d) Hosted by Jacqueline (https://twitter.com/swampduchess) and Jane (https://twitter.com/janeyshivers). Edited by Jacqueline. Cover art by Vera (https://twitter.com/Innsmouth_Inn). Intro/outro: "Super Mariocean" by spacepony (https://ocremix.org/remix/OCR01147)

Brea and Mallory talk about their most anticipated books for August and September, test out coaster bookmarks, and give advice for people who hate hardcovers. Email us at readingglassespodcast at gmail dot com!Reading Glasses MerchRecommendations StoreSponsors -Hello Comicswww.hellocomics.netCODE: GLASSESMiracle Madewww.trymiracle.com/GLASSESCODE: GLASSESLinks -Reading Glasses Facebook GroupReading Glasses Goodreads GroupAmazon Wish ListNewsletterLibro.fmTo join our Slack channel, email us proof of your Reading-Glasses-supporting Maximum Fun membership!Books Mentioned - Loneliness and Company by Charlee DyroffThe Girl Who Slept with God by Val BrelinskiAugustThere is a Rio Grande in Heaven by Ruben Reyes JrSFF short storiesJellyfish Have No Ears by Adele Rosenfeld, translated by Jeffrey ZuckermanLiterary fiction about deafnessThere's Nothing Wrong With Her by Kate WeinburgLiterary fiction, mental health, funny, chronic illness, speculativeHum by Helen PhillipsSci fi thriller, dystopian, marriage, motherhood, selfhoodThe Axeman's Carnival by Catherine ChidgeyLiterary fiction, funny, bird protagonistWe Were Pretending by Hannah GersenLiterary fiction, female friendship, mushrooms, CanadaTimes Agent by Brenda PeynadoGrief, motherhood, late stage capitalism and pocket worlds (a geographically small world hidden within our reality)Clickbait by Holly BaxterDebut literary fiction, hilarious, life falling apartThe Italy Letters by Vi Khi NaoQueer literary fiction, epistolary, Las Vegas, queer loveGodzilla and the Song Bird by Manzu IslamHistorical fiction, Bangladesh, brothers, cinemaThere are Rivers in the Sky by Elif ShafakHistorical fiction, multiple timelines, GilgameshThe Instrumentalist by Harriet ConstableHistorical fiction, music, violins, Venice, 1700sMystery Lights by Lena ValenciaLiterary short stories set in the desertOne Hundred Shadows by Hwang Jungeun, translated by Jung YewonSFF, magical realism, Seoul, capitalismThe Sunforce by Sascha StronachQueer fantasy, sequel to The DawnhoundsThe Pairing by Casey McQuistonQueer romance, two disaster bisexual exes on a European tourHow to Leave the House by Nathan NewmanGay literary fiction, small town secrets, quirky charactersThe Palace of Eros by Caro de RobertisQueer Greek myth retelling of Psyche and ErosVoyage of the Damned by Frances WhiteQueer romantasy, murder mystery on a magical shipRules for Ghosting by Shelly Jay ShoreQueer spooky romance, ghostsWild Failure by Zoe WhitallQueer feminist short storiesThe Other Ones by Fran HartYA spooky queer romanceRise and Divine by Lana HarperLesbian witch romancePrince of the Palisades by Julian WintersGay YA romance, Los AngelesA Bahn Mi for Two by Trinity NguyenYA sapphic foodie romanceA Grand Love - Stories for Grandparents of Trans Grandchildren by Janna BarkinNonfictionQueer as Folklore - The Hidden Queer History of Myths and Monsters by Sasha CowardNonfictionConfounding Oaths by Alexis HallGay romantasy, historicalHers for the Weekend by Helena GreerSapphic opposites-attract romance, fake datingCome Out, Come Out by Natalie C. ParkerQueer YA horror, trans characters, ghostsFull Shift by Jennifer Dugan and Kit SeatonQueer YA graphic novel, werewolvesYou're the Problem, It's You by Emma R. AlbanGay enemies-to-lovers Victorian romanceThe Unmothers by Leslie J. AndersonFolk horror, small town, female rageThe Dark We Know by Wen-yi Lee-YaYA horror, queer, small town, an EntityHelga by Catherine YuYA horror, satire, science experiment makes a girl and she escapes into the worldSacrificial Animals by Kailee PedersenHorror, Chinese mythology, returning to a small townThe Madness by Dawn KurtagichHorror, feminist Dracula retellingThe Volcano Daughters by Gina Maria BalibreraHistorical fiction, sisterhood, El Salvador, California, Paris, ghostsBlackheart Man by Nalo HopkinsonFantasy, magical island, witches, demons, polyamory, mythsThe Silence Factory by Bridget CollinsHistorical fiction, gothic, powerful family, magic silk, 1800sLady Macbeth by Ava ReidFeminist Macbeth retellingPeggy by Rebecca GodfreyImagined life of Peggy GuggenheimThe Story Collector by Evie WoodsHistorical fiction, book about books, Ireland, small town, fairies (not horny ones)The Seventh Veil by Silvia Moreno-GarciaHistorical fiction, 1950s HollywoodThe Ghost Cat by Alex HowardHistorical Fantasy, 1910s, cat who becomes a ghost who witnesses historyTruly Madly Magically by Hazel BeckBook 3 of Witchlore SeriesCrypt of the Moon Spider by Nathan BallingrudHorror novella, historical sci fi, hospital experimentsDungeon Crawler Carl by Matt DinnimanSci fi, cat sidekick, veteran protagonist, trapped in a fantasy dungeon video gameAsunder by Kerstin HallFantasy, Sabriel meets Witch KingShe Who Knows by Nnedi OkoraforWest African SFF novella in the Who Fears Death universeThe Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki, translated by Jesse KirkwoodJapanese cozy fantasy, talking cats, magic coffee shopA Werewolf's Guide to Seducing a Vampire by Sarah HawleySupernatural romance, werewolves, vampiresGlass Houses by Madeline AshbySci fi thriller, AI, deserted island, women in tech, near future whodunitThe Phoenix Keeper by S.A. MacleanRomantasy, cozy, magic zooThe Dead Cat Tail Assassins by P. Djeli ClarkFantasy novella, gods, assassins, magic cityThe Coven by Harper L. WoodsVampire romantasyStrange Folk by Alli DyerFantasy, Appalachia, magic estranged family, debutA Sorceress Comes to Call by T. KingfisherFantasy, Goose Girl reimagining, Brothers Grimm, magic, murderFull Speed to a Crash Landing by Beth RevisSci fi novella, sexy space heistThe Leap Year Gene of Kit McKinley by Shelley WoodHistorical sci fi, time traveling, geneticsBite by Bill SchuttMicro history of teethI Want to Die But I Still Want to Eat Tteobokki by Baek Sehee, translated by Anton HurrNonfiction, sequelEveryday Rituals by Pearl KatzNonfiction about the power of routine and ritualLove and Other Conspiracies by Mallow MarloweDebut romance, cryptid hunter and producer learn to fall in love again while looking for Mothman and aliensMorbidly Yours by Ivy FairbanksOpposites attract romance with a mortician and a widowDark Restraint by Katee RobertsSmutty minotaur/Ariadne romanceSecond Tide's The Charm by Chandra BlumbergSecond chance marine biologist romance, sharks!!!The Truth According to Ember by Danica NavaWorkplace Native rom-comQueen of Dreams by Kit RochaPoly romantasy, sexy people fighting ancient evilHouse of Bone and Rain by Gabino IglesiasThriller, coming of age, teens seeking vengeance for a murderThe Antique Store Detective by Clare ChaseCozy mystery, small town, antiquesBetter Left Buried by Mary E. RoachYA thriller, teen girls solving mysteries in an abandoned amusement parkEye of the Beholder by Emma BamfordThriller, inspired by Vertigo, Scottish highlands, beauty industryDeath at Morning House by Maureen JohnsonYA mystery, historical island mansion, queerWordhunter by Stella SandsMystery, detective with uncanny ability to analyze words and speech patternsSociety of Lies by Lauren Ling BrownThriller, secret society, upper class secretsDear Hanna by Zoje StageFollow up to Baby TeethI Need You to Read This by Jessa MaxwellMystery, advice columnist solving her predecessor's murderHighway Thirteen by Fiona McFarlaneInterconnected short stories about the same serial killerTalking to Stranger by Fiona BartonThriller, detective and reporter racing each other to a solve a murderWe Love the Nightlife by Rachel Koller CroftThriller, vampires, toxic female friendship, 1970s London disco sceneScrap by Calla HenkelThriller, true crime obsessed artist hired by insanely wealthy family with dark secretsThe Naturalist's Daughter by Tea CooperHistorical thriller, platypus mystery!!!SeptemberBabe in the Woods by Julie HeffernanGraphic novel, literary, motherhood, lost in the woods, memoryWe'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida, translated by E. Madison ShimodaLiterary fiction, Japanese, healing power of catsDawnland by Tess CallahanLiterary fiction, Cape Cod, family secretsWhere the Forest Meets the River by Shannon BowringQueer literary fiction, Maine, small town, griefPlease Fear Me by Jennifer LoveQueer literary fiction, teen runaway, circus, coming of age Still Life by Katherine Packet BurkeQueer literary fiction, queer friendship, trans characters, womanhoodPlayground by Richard PowersLiterary fiction, multiple POVs, ocean settingCompound Fracture by Andrew Joseph WhiteYA thriller, trans protagonist, Appalachia, classism, ghostsCelestial Monsters by Aiden ThomasBook 2 of Sunbearer duologyThis Fatal Kiss by Alicia JasinkaYA poly romantasy, magic, fairytalesOld Wounds by Logan-Ashley KisnerYA trans horror, small town, monster, sacrificeSomewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ KluneSequel to The House in the Cerulean SeaThe World is Not Yours by Kemi Ashing-GiwaSci fi novella, space horrorSpells to Forget Us by Aislinn BrophyWitchy YA sapphic romanceA Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison SaftDark academia sapphic romantasyAt the End of the River Styx by Michelle KulwickiQueer YA Horror, curses, monstersLove and Sportsball by Meka JamesSapphic sports romanceFlamboyants - The Queer Harlem Renaissance I Wish I'd Known by George M. JohnsonNonfictionThe Haunting of Moscow House by Olesya Salnikova GilmoreGothic horror, historical Russia, haunted houseThe Night Guest by Hildur Knutsdottir, translated by Mary Robinette KowalHorror, Iceland, grief, possessionSo Thirsty by Rachel HarrisonHorror, vampires, female satisfactionSuch Lovely Skin by Tatiana Schlote-BonneYA horror, doppelgangersRuin Road by Lamar GilesYA horror, curses, high schoolDearest by Jacquie WaltersStressed mom horrorWe Are Hunted by Tomi OyemakindeYA horror, White Lotus meets Jurassic ParkThe Thirteenth Child by Erin A. CraigYA horromance, dark fairytaleSweetest Darkness by Leslie LutzYA horror, psychic teen, abandoned hotelDevils Kill Devils by Johnny ComptonHorror, Southern gothic, demons, angelsIn the Garden of Monsters by Crystal KingHistorical fiction, Hades and Persephone retelling, gothic romance, evil gardenWhat We Sacrifice for Magic by Andrea Jo DeWeraHistorical fiction, witches, 1960s, Minnesota, family, small townThe Empusium by Olga TokarczukHistorical fiction, 1913, Poland, WWI, sanitariumThe Vampire of Kings Street by Asha GreylingHistorical fantasy, 1800s New York, vampires, lawThe Light Between Us by Elaine ChiewHistorical speculative romance, 1920s SingaporeThe Booklover's Library by Madeline MartinHistorical fiction, London, mother-daughter relationship, booksThe Shadow Key by Susan Stokes-ChapmanHistorical fiction, 1700s Wales, gothic, isolated estate, secretsThe Mesmerist by Caroline WoodsHistorical thriller, 1890s Minneapolis, woman banding together to stand a serial killerThe Lantern of Lost Memories by Sanaka Hiiragi, translated by Jesse KirkwoodCozy Japanese fantasy, magical photo studio, afterlifeRewitched by Lucy Jane WoodDebut cozy fantasy, witches, burnoutBringer of Dust by J.M. MiroSequel to Ordinary Monsters Alien Clay by Adrian TchaikovskySci fi epic, space, aliens, politicsAn Academy for Liars by Alexis HendersonDark academia, magic school, dark fantasyWe Need No Wings by Ann Davila CardinalFantasy, grief, love, flyingThe Scarlet Throne by Amy LeowPolitical epic fantasy, talking cats, demons, power and corruptionSky Full of Elephants by Cebo CampbellSci fi, world with no white peopleThis Will be Fun by E. B. AsherCozy quest romantasy, Prince Bride comp, friendshipLucy Undying by Kiersten WhiteFantasy, Dracula retelling, gothicBright I Burn by Molly AitkenHistorical fantasy, Ireland, witchesVilest Things by Chloe GongSequel to Immortal LongingsHaunt Sweet Home by Sarah PinskerHorror, ghosts, reality show, TV production, new adultThe Life Impossible by Matt HaigFantasy, magic, hopeThe Cottage Around the Corner by D.L. SoriaRomantasy, mage-witch rivalry, rom com, small townThe Village Library Demon Hunting Society by C.M. WaggonerLibrarian solving supernatural murdersThe Midnight Club by Margot HarrisonFantasy, dark academia, friend reunionSpace Oddity by Catherynne M. ValenteSequel to Space OperaBuried Deep and Other Stories by Naomi NovikFantasy short storiesHorror for Weenies by Emily C. HughesNonfiction, crash course in horror moviesThe Extinction of Experience by Christine LosenNonfiction, how to experience being human in a digital worldBone of the Bone by Sarah SmarshNonfiction, essays on the working classMagically Black and Other Essays by Jerald WalkerNonfiction on Black cultureBy the Fire We Carry by Rebecca NagleNonfiction, fight for Native landBook and Dagger by Elyse GrahamNonfiction, WWII librarian spiesThe Book Swap by Tessa BickersBookish second chance romanceSunshine and Spice by Aurora PalitOpposites attract fake dating, cookingMy Vampire Plus One by Jenna LevineFake dating rom-com with a vampireA Jingle Bell Mingle by Julie Murphy and Sierra SimoneChristmas rom-com, forced proximityThe Worst Duke in London by Amalie HowardHistorical romance, Bridgerton meets 10 Things I Hate About YouThe Hitchcock Hotel by Stephanie WrobelMystery, old friends reunite in a Hitchcock-themed hotel, murderGuide Me Home by Attica LockeThird in Highway 59 trilogyWhere They Last Saw Her by Marcie R. RendonThriller, Native woman solving disappearances and murderPassiontide by Monique RoffeyThriller, local island women banding together to solve murderWe Solve Murders by Richard OsmanFather/daughter murder solving, thrillerBeneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees by Patrick Horvath and Hassan Otsmane ElhaouGraphic novel thriller, Richard Scarry meets DexterWilliam by Mason CoileSci fi thriller, cyber noir, psychological thriller, house haunted by AIBitter is the Heart by Mina HardyHorror, generational trauma, evil momThe Curse of the Dead Man's Diamond by Christyne MorrellMiddle grade mystery, haunted manor, ghostsSnake Oil by Kelsey Rae DimburgLiterary thriller, wellness culture, female ambitionThe Most Famous Girl in the World by Iman Hariri-KiaThriller, satire, celebrity culture, obsessionThe Serial Killer Guide to San Francisco by Michelle ChouinardMystery, granddaughter of a serial killer must solve copy cat murder

There are some things in the writing world that don't make a ton of sense in the world of regular humans. One of those things is pinch points. This podcast episode is going to be the start of a quick series of podcasts and regular posts about pinch points. The regular posts will be at our Substack LIVING HAPPY under the WRITE BETTER NOW publication. So, what are these little twerps called pinch points? They a way of thinking about novel or story structure that helps us keep the reader engaged. Pinch points are moments where the tension emerges again or is heightened. It's a place where you seductively say to the reader, “Hey, baby. Let's engage again.” Or maybe it's that they are saying, “Dear Reader, let me remind you what exactly is at stake here for our poor, dear, pathetic hero.” The pinch points are where the protagonist or hero of your story gets a little bit of pain. Ouch. So mean, us writers are so very mean. As Writing Mastery describes, “They rekindle the tension that may have waned by reminding us of the primary conflict and what it means for the characters. Without stakes, readers will quickly lose interest—therefore, pinch points are events of the plot that, strategically placed, keep the narrative from losing steam.” “In the traditional Three-Act Structure, the first act introduces the characters, setting, and conflict, while the third act culminates in the resolution. The second act, which constitutes the middle portion of the story, is often the longest and contains the rising action. Pinch points punctuate this act to create a sense of urgency and drive the story forward.” Pinch Points Are Not Plot Points So, here's the super important thing. Pinch points are not plot points. Yes, there is a lot of P-words in there, but to pinch is not to plot, though a dastardly villain might plot how to pinch. Plot points move the story forward are events connect the events of your story so it's not episodic. Pinch points Raise stakes or increase the conflict. Obstruct the hero from getting her goal, so often focus on the bad guy of the story or the antagonist and this is a big part of it, this is what makes it not a turning point Make the reader curious about what might happen, make them worried about what might happen, so keeps them reading Show us what our heroes are made of because of the extra pressure that these challenges create. As Writers Helping Writers writes, “New writers often concentrate on the Hook, Midpoint, and the big twist at the end. But without well-placed Pinch Points, the story will lose its sense of rising action, conflict, and tension. The quest cannot exist without an opponent, and the Pinch Points show the reader what that opposition is all about. “Pinch Points show how high the stakes are. They also set up the emotional change within the hero as they react to the new situation.” So, tomorrow on the blog, I'll be talking about where these babies go in your story. DOG TIP FOR LIFE Do not let the pinch points keep you from moving forward toward your goals. COOL EXERCISE Think about the bad guy in your story. Now write down: Their fetish What they'd buy at the grocery store What they'd buy at Wal-Mart What they could do to make things harder on the hero and easier on themselves PLACE TO SUBMIT River Styx The Castro Prize, named for our founding editor, Michael Castro, is a new prize awarded annually to exemplary works of poetry and fiction. River Styx editors carefully read and discuss contest entries and ultimately submit the strongest ten entries to the judges. For our 2024 contest, Christopher Castellani will judge fiction and Dg Okpik will judge poetry. We will award one winner for fiction and one for poetry, with one runner-up in each genre. The first-place prizes are $1000 each, plus publication in print and online. The entry fee is $20. If you would like to receive a copy of our latest print issue, River Styx 107, you may do so at a discounted rate of 50% off ($9.95). (Shipping rates apply. The discount is good for one copy of RS107 per entrant and cannot be combined with any other discounts or offers.) Entrants will receive a discount code in their confirmation email. Works of fiction should not exceed 5000 words. You may send up to three poems. Work must be previously unpublished. You may submit multiple entries but each work must be submitted separately. If the work is a simultaneous submission, we ask that you notify us immediately upon publication elsewhere and withdraw the piece via Submittable. Withdrawing a submission will not result in a refund of the entry fee. The contest runs from May 1, 2024 through September 30, 2024. The winners will be announced on January 1, 2025. All contest entries are read blind. The winner is chosen based on the strength and inventiveness of the writing, not on academic background, publication history, or any other accolades. Please do not include your name or any other identifying information on the work itself. Submittable provides features that allow us to read the work without seeing the contributor's name, contact information, or cover letter. Once winners are chosen, we can "unhide" this information to identify the winners. ENTER NOW SHOUT OUT! The music we've clipped and shortened in this podcast is awesome and is made available through the Creative Commons License. Here's a link to that and the artist's website. Who is this artist and what is this song? It's “Summer Spliff” by Broke For Free. WE HAVE EXTRA CONTENT ALL ABOUT LIVING HAPPY OVER HERE! It's pretty awesome. We have a podcast, LOVING THE STRANGE, which we stream biweekly live on Carrie's Facebook and Twitter and YouTube on Fridays. Her Facebook and Twitter handles are all carriejonesbooks or carriejonesbook. But she also has extra cool content focused on writing tips here. Carrie is reading one of her raw poems every once in awhile on CARRIE DOES POEMS. And there you go! Whew! That's a lot! Subscribe

There are a lot of people who advocate spending just an hour a day doing something to become awesome. That hour a day is often learning. You study up about what you want to do, you self learn, you teach yourself to be better by learning all about the thing you're into. So, if you're into writing, you read books about writing and actual books. You study the craft. So, if you're into knitting, you study knitting. Entrepeneurship? Same thing, but first you probably have to learn how to spell it. My bad there. There's a cool graph here that talks about how if you read a certain number of books, how you compare to other American adults. It's also a bit depressing because it basically says most Americans read two books a year. Hallel K has a post on Medium about how you can use the 1-hour rule to catapult yourself into the 1% and I think that's a great post, but it's a little hyperbolizing. We like hyperbole though, right? It makes things easy. Hallel uses a quote by Earl Nightingale. “One hour per day of study in your chosen field is all it takes. One hour per day of study will put you at the top of your field within three years. Within five years you'll be a national authority. In seven years, you can be one of the best people in the world at what you do — Earl Nightingale” This might make you think, "Yes! Right. So true. Epiphany moment." Or it might make you think, "Who the hell is Earl Nightingale?" Well, he has a Wikipedia page? But basically he was a motivational speaker and a radio show host that died in 1989. He wrote Strangest Secret. And to him it's all about risk taking and he also said that the problem with people's lives and lack of success isn't cowardice, but conformity. According to his definition, a success is when you go after a goal and achieve it. Deliberately. And only 1 out of 20 do that, he said. The key, he said, is creating, not conforming, deliberate creation. Goals, he said, bring you places. A ship, he says, that has a crew and captain has a destination and it gets out of the harbor and ends up to its destination. But a ship without a destination? Without a captain and crew? If you just turn on the boat's engines, it might not even make it out of the harbor. Deliberate learning. Goals. Focus. That's what matters, he says. Reading, learning? Those are important aspects. Maybe you won't get in the top 1% of whatever you're going toward, but you will get smarter, closer, and have deliberate action. DOG TIP FOR LIFE Pogie claims to be in the top 1% of Begging. She's an International subject expert in Food begging. Study in the morning and at night. This, however, is a photo of her apprentice, Mr. Murphy. COOL EXERCISE This is from MasterClass and it's all about goals. "Create Realistic Goals "If your goals are unrealistic, they'll be unachievable and overwhelming. Don't let your passion for finishing your novel cause you to push yourself too hard and set goals that simply aren't possible. For example, it might not be reasonable to set a goal that you will write your novel in one month. Neither should you set a word-count goal to write 10,000 words a day—especially if you also have a full-time job. Setting reasonable goals in the first place will make it much easier for you down the road. "Consider setting writing goals that you can accomplish step-by-step, one day at a time. The best thing you can do is create daily habits that will help you reach your goals—rather than burn yourself out early with ambitious expectations for yourself. Here are some goals that many writers will set for themselves: Write 1,500 words every day Write for three hours every day at a scheduled time Finish one chapter each week Practice morning journaling" PLACE TO SUBMIT River Styx Castro Prize 2025 (Deadline September 30) The Castro Prize, named for our founding editor, Michael Castro, is a new prize awarded annually to exemplary works of poetry and fiction. River Styx editors carefully read and discuss contest entries and ultimately submit the strongest ten entries to the judges. For our 2024 contest, Christopher Castellani will judge fiction and Dg Okpik will judge poetry. We will award one winner for fiction and one for poetry, with one runner-up in each genre. The first-place prizes are $1000 each, plus publication in print and online. River Styx remains dedicated to publishing the works of writers and artists we believe represent current and future movements in society and culture at local, national, and global levels, whether that work is embedded in historical, contemporary, future, abstract, or impossible contexts. In other words, we seek out work which protests, proclaims, fumes, experiments, innovates, elevates, ruminates, and rushes ahead. And the form that work takes is often surprising, occasionally challenging to our sensibilities and ossified narratives, and always feels urgent and alive in some way. RANDOM THOUGHT LINK Sky News Greatest Dane SHOUT OUT! The music we've clipped and shortened in this podcast is awesome and is made available through the Creative Commons License. Here's a link to that and the artist's website. Who is this artist and what is this song? It's “Summer Spliff” by Broke For Free. WE HAVE EXTRA CONTENT ALL ABOUT LIVING HAPPY OVER HERE! It's pretty awesome. We have a podcast, LOVING THE STRANGE, which we stream biweekly live on Carrie's Facebook and Twitter and YouTube on Fridays. Her Facebook and Twitter handles are all carriejonesbooks or carriejonesbook. But she also has extra cool content focused on writing tips here. Carrie is reading one of her raw poems every once in awhile on CARRIE DOES POEMS. And there you go! Whew! That's a lot! Subscribe

Welcome to the Okawa Book Club Podcast! In this episode, hosts Hannah and Kate introduce the latest title from Master Ryuho Okawa, The Laws of Eternity: El Cantare Unveils the Structure of the Spirit World. We delve into the profound insights from Chapter 1, "The World of the Fourth Dimension," and touch upon Chapter 2, "The World of the Fifth Dimension." Discover what actually happens when we die and the differences between clinical and spiritual death, the significance of the silver cord in relation to Near-Death Experience, and the journey of the soul after death. Listen as we explore the River Styx, the reception center in the afterlife, and the concept of eternal life and reincarnation. We discuss the importance of self-reflection, the impact of our daily thoughts and action on our spiritual journey, and the idea that heaven and hell exist within our minds now. Join us for an enlightening conversation on the mysteries of the spirit world and the eternal truths revealed by Master Okawa. Don't miss this chance to understand the spiritual mechanisms that shape our existence. For more information and to purchase the book, visit Okawabooks.com, Amazon.com and your local bookstores. Also recommend reading The Laws of Hell, also available on Amazon.com. Watch The Laws of Eternity Movie.  Watch Suicide Prevention Video_Spiritual Truth about Suicide Thank you for listening, and we'll see you next time!

Riv first goes on a rant about what others consider entertainment with content creators in the hobby.  Whether it by creating and producing podcast, YouTube content, or other social media...Stemming from our excursion to AMPS Nats, this is a spill over episode, discussing what brings us inspiration in the hobby.  What is it that makes us want to produce?  Where does inspiration come from? Our discussion about inspiration leads into research and aftermarket additions.  Somewhere along the conversation, Justin got kidnapped by aliens or something, as he missed the switch in topics.  Stash accumulation rounds out the conversation and we talk about the strange stuff in our stashes and where they came from. And Riv admits he has a photoetch problem…and the conversation ends with the inevitable question of what happens with those stashes when we cross the River Styx on that next journey. The Red Beach One Studios World War One group build is has converted to a Special Interest Group Machinen Krieger Group build is well underway!  Officially ends in July, with the release of the 1/35 Falke kit-post your unstarted builds in the ‘Unstarted ‘ Album.  New Kits In The News Tuch-finds the treasure trove of new kits andbrings us the highlights of what's new with Takom-Obj. 279 with MBC commando tank anda VK100.01 P The Maus meets the Panther and Porsche Tiger, Fire system-HPJ11 guided fire system, Sdkfz 251 halftrack w/interior, Miniart with all sorts of new stuff…  And Andy's Hobby Headquarters is releasing their 1/16 scale M113.  Magic Factory released the test shots of their A-4 M Skyhawks and they look spectacular! Upcoming Shows Scale Model Expo in Manawatu New Zealand-July 21 10 am to 4 pm Fiielding Community Center Scalemodelswellington.org.nz/expo May 18th- North shore con 2024-9-4 KOc hall in Peabody Mass. IPMS Northshore Modelers Mosscon 1501 East Hythean Street Ark of te Ozarks in Missouri-hosted by IMPS Missouri Ozark Scale Specialists Cal max 37 West Cal Arena and Events center Sulpher La. IPMS Swamp southwest area modelers of plastic IPMS Silvercon 2024 T&C Lutheran Church IPMS silverwings And then Donati got bored and stuck something up his nose… Social Media Shout Outs:Tuch - Kev Green and his AMT Bulldozer Rob Adams  -Devon Bauermeister Cutaway Tamiya 32 nd scale F16 Frank Donati - Tomislav Kromislovitch-his showing at Moson Show Rob Riv - Shsuro Gaishi's Pacific Sherman Bad Santa- LessKnown Panzer and his 1/35 Hobbyboss LandWasserschlepper Links RobRivs Modeling Insanity Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/robrivsmodelinginsanity?mibextid=AEUHqQ Ryan's Random Modelwerks on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065396023083&mibextid=AEUHqQ The ModelLager on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/themodellaager?mibextid=AEUHqQ Rob's MMU Studios on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094271125975&mibextid=AEUHqQ The Modeling Insanity Podcast Asylum Opening and end music by Supernova by Arthur Vyncke https://soundcloud.com/arthurvostMusic promoted by http://www.free-stock-music.comJoin the Podcast on Facebook on The Modeling Insanity Podcast PageEmail the Insanity Crew at modelinginsanitypodcast@gmail.com for any comments or suggestions.

This is the legend of Dartheus the Loudmouthed, who hitchhiked the River Styx, who brought a harvest of wine and mirth to herald their birth, friend of Dionysus, who fought the Minotaur and fled from Cerberus. This is the story of the God of the Toast of Rememberance.TWIST OF FATES: https://illicitpeanuts.itch.io/twist-of-fatesRASCAL: https://www.rascal.news/ROWAN ZEOLI: https://twitter.com/RowanZeoliBLACK LIVES MATTER: https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/#ALL MY FANTASY CHILDREN: https://moonshotpods.com/all-my-fantasy-children/YAZEBA'S BED & BREAKFAST: https://redcircle.com/shows/yazebas-bed-and-breakfastPARTY OF ONE DISCORD: https://discordapp.com/invite/SxpQKmKSUPPORT JEFF ON PATREON: www.patreon.com/jeffstormerTHEME SONG: Mega Ran feat. D&D Sluggers, “Infinite Lives,” RandomBeats LLC, www.megaran.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

We are in the midst of a new surge of Native writing talent. And their skill for engaging readers with compelling stories is propelling a new, complex and more sophisticated narrative about who Native Americans are. Gone are the Louis L'Amour stereotypes. The new Native characters are miscreants, bored office workers, dysfunctional family members, and reluctant heroes. And they all have a story to tell, with a voice that readers wouldn't hear otherwise. We'll explore the arc of Native literature from two writers who are part of the torrent of creative representation. GUESTS Deborah Jackson Taffa (Kwatsaán and Laguna Pueblo), author of Whiskey Tender, director of the MFA in Creative Writing program at the Institute of American Indian Arts, and editor-in-chief of “River Styx” literary magazine    Ramona Emerson (Diné), former forensic videographer and photographer, filmmaker, and author of Shutter

"Achilles' heel" is an idiom that comes from Greek mythology, specifically from the story of Achilles, a legendary Greek hero of the Trojan War. According to the myth, Achilles was invulnerable except for his heel, which his mother, Thetis, had failed to dip in the River Styx when she held him as a baby. As a result, his heel remained his one weak spot. The term "Achilles' heel" refers to a person's vulnerability or weak point, despite overall strength or invincibility. It's often used metaphorically to describe any weakness that could potentially lead to downfall or failure, whether in an individual, a system, or an organization. Tune in and have a great day! - Get exclusive episodes on IELTS Speaking parts 1, 2, and 3: https://linktr.ee/sfspremium Book a class with Rory here: https://successwithielts.com/rory Our course on Phrasal Verbs: https://successwithielts.com/podcourses Find an IELTS Speaking Partner: https://links.successwithielts.com/ieltspartner Our social media: https://linktr.ee/successwithielts © 2024 Podcourses LLP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're joined Russ & Justin of the Gamma Charge and Gone the Form of Man podcasts to talk about what SHOULD HAVE BEEN the first issue of The Scarecrow. The monstrous god Kalumai sends his hideous Sub-Men to our world through the Scarecrow painting in Jess Duncan's Soho loft. They seek The Horn of Kalumai...and with it they aim to unleash their master on our dimension. THIS ISSUE: Marvel Spotlight #26 NEXT ISSUE: Marvel Chillers #2 MAIL: bronzeagemonsters@gmail.com  STORE: https://bronzeagemonsters.threadless.com/ SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.patreon.com/BronzeAgeMonsters DISCORD: https://discord.gg/NcFaq9Ednq VM: 971-220-JUNK

Moshe Kasher has lived many lives as a subculture vulture - a hearing child of deaf parents, an addict at 15, in recovery at 16, a raver, a culturally Jewish standup comedian, an old school Burner and a longtime Gate volunteer. With Andie Grace and Stuart Mangrum he explores how Burning Man is a waterboard of wonder where weirdos go to feel normal, and norms go to feel weird, and that the sweet spot is when you experience something that makes you say “Wait, What?!?”They talk through how Black Rock City has evolved, from subcultures like the rave scene and AA meetings, to the transitional realm from the default world, the infamous Gate. Listen in on their playful tales of culture-jamming and utopia-tizing. It's horribly hilarious, and you might just guffaw at words like gavage. Moshe Kasher (wikipedia)Gate, Perimeter & Exodus (burningman.org)Subculture Vulture: Penguin Random HouseSubculture Vulture: New York Times Book Reviewwww.cacophony.orgThe Endless Honeymoon Podcast LIVE.BURNINGMAN.ORG

Grab your AirPods and cross The River Styx with The Girls! This week Barbara is presenting a listener's recommendation of “Neon Gods” by Katee Roberts. When Zeus announces he is engaged to Persephone (news to her!) she runs away to Hades in the Underworld. This book is set in a modern day Olympus, which is basically Gotham City… so does that make Hades The Penguin? This episode is carrying on the girls' 2024 trend of being all over the place. The First Coming is so good it causes actual fireworks! We also get an insight into Emily's imagination and it is…stimulating. Is our 13th episode lucky or are we cursed? Do any of our husband's know how to quietly make biscuits? Have you seen Bedazzled? Try to make it through the whole episode without using the safe word “pomegranate!”    New Episodes out every Tuesday! Follow @ClutchMyPearlsPod on TikTok, X, Instagram and GoodReads! Do you have a smut recommendation for the girls? Send an email to: ClutchMyPearlsPod@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Jake and Brad on their bogus journey as they cross the River Styx and descend slowly into the lake of fire. That's right folks, this week we're all going to Hell. We'll pour over the origins of the underworld and examine three different cases where people claimed to have traveled there: An atheist turned minister. A pastor who had to suffer through a demon-sung rendition of Rhianna's “Umbrella.” A sweet old lady who couldn't, for the death of her, understand why she had been sent to this godforsaken place. We'll also explore an idea even more terrifying than Hell itself… the quantum entanglement of never dying at all. To listen to the full episode, and gain access to our other mini-series such as Manclan and Trickle Down, you can subscribe for just five bucks a month at: http://www.patreon.com/QAnonAnonymous The Spectral Voyager theme composed by Nick Sena. Additional music by Pontus Berghe and Jake Rockatansky. Voiceover performance by Katie Amis. Editing by Corey Klotz. QAA's website: http://qanonanonymous.com