Podcasts about Serendipity

Are you feeling like you can't keep doing business the way you've been doing it? Like the success you've built feels heavy, or you're questioning whether you can get back up on that saddle again? What if the burnout, the repetitive patterns, and that feeling of always needing to be "on" isn't about working harder or finding the next strategy, but about fundamentally shifting how you approach magic, timing, and receptivity in your business?In this episode, I share my year-and-a-half journey through hitting a brick wall in my business, from brick-and-mortar to online, through various business models, only to find myself recreating the same overhead-heavy, always-on patterns I was trying to escape. I unpack the two major themes that emerged from my own transformation and my work with clients…the power of magic and serendipity, and learning to trust divine timing instead of trying to logic your way through everything.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL DISCOVER:Why simplifying your business goes deeper than cutting expenses, and how aligning with your core values rather than someone else's definition of success is essential to creating sustainability without burnout.The radical concept of magic and serendipity in business, and why our tendency as high-achieving women to ask "what do I need to DO?" actually blocks us from receiving the very opportunities we're seeking.How to tap into the energy of place and possibility without relocating, through following breadcrumbs like unexpected connections and cultural philosophies, and why shutting down seemingly impractical ideas cuts you off from wisdom trying to come through.The truth about divine timing and why some of us are designed to peak later in life, how to recognize this in your own journey, and why grinding harder during transition phases usually just creates diversions that lead back to the same brick wall.Why gifted healers and thought leaders keep trying to fit their spontaneous gifts into rigid frameworks with courses and PDFs and how this dilutes their magic, plus the invitation to trust what wants to come through rather than over-preparing everything.And while you're here, follow us on Instagram @creativelyowned for more daily inspiration on effortlessly attracting the most aligned clients without spending hours marketing your business or chasing clients. Also, make sure to tag me in your stories @creativelyowned.Selling the Invisible: Exactly how to articulate the value of your cosmic genius even if your message transcends the typical “10k months” & “Make 6-figures” types of promises. Free on-demand training >>> https://www.creativelyowned.co/watchnow To find out how to own your unique edge, amplify who you truly are (& get paid for it), take your business to cosmic proportions, and have fun doing it, grab it here!! https://www.creativelyowned.com/quizOffer Architect: TURN YOUR ‘INVISIBLE' WISDOM INTO A COMPELLING OFFER THAT WILL SELL WITH A SINGLE EMAIL. >>>https://creativelyowned.com/offer-architectJoin the waitlist for the Selling the Invisible AI-Powered Conversion Copywriting System and be the first in line when the doors open again! >>>https://www.creativelyowned.co/waitlist

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Moonlit Serendipity: Finding Inspiration and Peace at Yiheyuan Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-04-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 秋天的颐和园，金黄色的树叶在微风中沙沙作响，昆明湖水面波光粼粼，En: In the autumn at Yiheyuan, the golden leaves rustle gently in the breeze, and the surface of Kunming Lake glistens with light.Zh: 偶尔有只小船划过水面，打破了湖面的宁静。En: Occasionally, a small boat glides across, breaking the lake's tranquility.Zh: 中秋节的夜晚，颐和园更是热闹非凡，四周挂满了红灯笼，还有隐约传来的传统音乐声。En: On the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Yiheyuan becomes even more vibrant, with red lanterns hanging all around and the faint sound of traditional music drifting through the air.Zh: 莲是一个画家，她最近总觉得与自己的作品失去了联系。En: Lian is a painter who recently feels disconnected from her work.Zh: 无论她如何努力，总是找不到灵感。En: No matter how hard she tries, she can't find inspiration.Zh: 这天，她决定去参加颐和园的中秋节活动，希望能在这个美丽的地方找到一丝启发。En: Today, she decides to attend the Yiheyuan Mid-Autumn Festival, hoping to find a spark of inspiration in this beautiful setting.Zh: 明是一位历史学家，他最近经历了一场个人失落，心情沉重。En: Ming is a historian who recently experienced a personal loss, leaving him feeling heavy-hearted.Zh: 今天，他也来到了颐和园，想在这宁静的地方寻求片刻的安宁。En: Today, he too comes to Yiheyuan, hoping to find a moment of peace in this serene place.Zh: 节是他们的共同朋友。En: Jie is their mutual friend.Zh: 在节的建议下，莲和明去颐和园散心。En: On Jie's suggestion, Lian and Ming visit Yiheyuan to relax.Zh: 节原本不过是想让两位朋友心情好一点，但他没想到他们竟然会在中秋节的晚上相遇。En: Jie originally just wanted to lift his friends' spirits a bit, but he did not expect that they would meet on the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival.Zh: 月亮圆圆地挂在天空，银白的月光洒满大地。En: The moon hangs round in the sky, its silvery light casting over the earth.Zh: 莲坐在湖边的一块大石上，注视着水面发呆。En: Lian sits on a large rock by the lake, gazing into the water in a trance.Zh: 明也独自漫步在优雅的长廊中。En: Ming also walks alone along the elegant corridors.Zh: 他们都不知道，命运很快就会把他们的路径交集。En: They are unaware that fate will soon intertwine their paths.Zh: 当莲和明在灯笼下相遇时，莲先打破了沉默：“你好，我是莲，一个画家。最近我对画画失去了热情。”En: When Lian and Ming meet under the lanterns, Lian breaks the silence first: "Hello, I am Lian, a painter. Recently, I've lost the passion for painting."Zh: 明叹了口气，轻声说道：“我是明，历史学家。最近我经历了一些失去，在找寻平静。”En: Ming sighs softly and says, "I am Ming, a historian. Recently I've gone through some losses, looking for peace."Zh: 在那一刻，他们彼此分享了内心的苦涩和挣扎。En: In that moment, they share with each other their inner bitterness and struggles.Zh: 也许是皎洁的月光，也许是微凉的秋风，让他们愿意向对方敞开心扉。En: Perhaps it was the bright moonlight, or maybe the cool autumn breeze, that made them willing to open their hearts to each other.Zh: 他们在水边坐了很久，聊了很多。En: They sit by the water for a long time, talking about many things.Zh: 莲听了明的故事，感受到了他的痛苦，却也理解他的坚强。En: Lian listens to Ming's story, feels his pain, yet understands his resilience.Zh: 而明则被莲对艺术的渴望所触动，即使在困难时期，她也在努力寻找自己的方向。En: Ming is touched by Lian's yearning for art, even in difficult times, she strives to find her own direction.Zh: 不知不觉中，夜已深，他们却感到心情轻松了许多。En: Unknowingly, the night deepens, yet they feel much lighter at heart.Zh: 随着交谈的深入，莲发现自己心中消失的灵感一点点地回来了。En: As their conversation deepens, Lian finds her lost inspiration gradually returning.Zh: 明也感觉到了久违的宁静和接受。En: Ming also senses a long-lost tranquility and acceptance.Zh: 分别时，莲对明说：“谢谢你，让我重新找到了画画的勇气。”En: As they part, Lian says to Ming, "Thank you for helping me rediscover the courage to paint."Zh: 明微笑着回答：“也谢谢你，让我开始接受过去，面对未来。”En: Ming smiles and replies, "Thank you, too, for helping me begin to accept the past and face the future."Zh: 伴随着灯笼的摇曳，莲和明走出颐和园。En: Accompanied by the swaying lanterns, Lian and Ming walk out of Yiheyuan.Zh: 尽管道路不同，但他们的心灵此刻已感到充实和温暖。En: Although their roads are different, at this moment, their hearts feel full and warm.Zh: 莲带着新生的激情，明找到了内心的平静。En: Lian carries newfound passion, and Ming finds inner peace.Zh: 月光依然洒在湖面，而在这一个秋夜，他们的心灵都得到了治愈。En: The moonlight still shines on the lake, and on this autumn night, their hearts have been healed. Vocabulary Words:autumn: 秋天rustle: 沙沙作响glistens: 波光粼粼tranquility: 宁静vibrant: 热闹非凡lanterns: 灯笼faint: 隐约disconnected: 失去了联系inspiration: 灵感spark: 一丝启发historian: 历史学家heavy-hearted: 心情沉重serene: 宁静intertwine: 交集trance: 发呆corridors: 长廊sighs: 叹了口气struggles: 挣扎bitterness: 苦涩resilience: 坚强yearning: 渴望unwillingly: 不知不觉tranquility: 宁静acceptance: 接受rediscover: 重新找到courage: 勇气swaying: 摇曳passion: 激情inner: 内心healed: 治愈

I spent a great deal of my life in Monterey, California, most of it under the water while teaching SCUBA diving. I recently discovered a Monterey story that held me spellbound. It begins like this: A marine biologist, a mythologist, and a novelist walk into a bar...

https://www.amazon.com/Just-Keep-Swimming-crash-quest/dp/1956450548This raw, intimate conversation from the Abilities Expo in Chicago captures a powerful moment between two strangers who discover their parallel journeys through life-altering accidents, guilt, and ultimately, resilience.Meet Cindy, a lifelong disability advocate whose world transformed when she fell asleep at the wheel, causing an accident that left her daughter quadriplegic. Max shares his own story of military service cut short when he awoke in a hospital bed after a car accident . Their conversation navigates the complex emotions of trauma—guilt, forgiveness, and the challenging path toward healing. What emerges is a beautiful testament to human adaptability and the unexpected gifts that can follow devastation."Serendipity" becomes the watchword of their exchange. Cindy describes how her daughter, now approaching 39, never doubted she would have a full life despite her injuries. Today, she works as a lawyer in DC and has two children whom Cindy helps raise. Meanwhile, the host finds inspiration in Cindy's journey as an author, having published "Just Keep Swimming: A Crash, A Quest, and Waves of Hope" about the first four years following the accident.This brief but profound SpeedCast reminds us that within our most challenging moments lie seeds of unexpected growth. Whether you're facing your own life transformation or supporting someone through theirs, this conversation offers perspective on finding purpose beyond pain. Have you experienced your own moment of serendipity following hardship? We'd love to hear your story in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe for more authentic conversations that celebrate resilience in all its forms.disability advocacy podcast, trauma recovery stories, resilience podcast, life after accident, inspirational disability stories, overcoming guilt and trauma, real-life resilience stories, podcast about life after traumatic accidents, mother and daughter disability journey, finding purpose after tragedy, healing from guilt after#Podcast #PodcastLife #NewEpisode #RealTalk #Inspiration #Resilience #MentalHealth #DisabilityAwareness #LifeAfterTrauma #AbilitiesExpo #DisabilityAdvocate #ResilientVoices #TraumaHealing #MomStrong #MilitaryToCivilian #CarAccidentSurvivor #HealingJourney #SerendipityStory #AdaptiveLife #InvisibleWounds #DisabilitySupport #QuadriplegicJourney

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Serendipity in the Pyrenees: A Winery Trip's Unexpected Twist Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-09-29-07-38-20-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El vent fred de la tardor bufava suaument mentre el cotxe d'en Oriol i la Marta serpentejava per les carreteres pintoresques dels Pirineus.En: The cold autumn wind softly blew as Oriol and Marta's car wound through the picturesque roads of the Pyrenees.Ca: Els arbres lluïen colors vius: taronja, vermell i daurat.En: The trees shone with vibrant colors: orange, red, and gold.Ca: Els dos companys de feina estaven en un viatge de negocis per promocionar un celler local en una ruta de màrqueting per la regió.En: The two colleagues were on a business trip to promote a local winery on a marketing tour in the region.Ca: Oriol era l'ànima de la festa.En: Oriol was the life of the party.Ca: Sempre buscava emocions i era conegut per ser una mica impulsiu.En: He was always seeking thrill and was known to be a bit impulsive.Ca: Veia aquesta gira com la seva gran oportunitat.En: He saw this tour as his big opportunity.Ca: Creia que amb el seu carisma podia impressionar els clients.En: He believed that with his charisma, he could impress clients.Ca: Marta, en canvi, era meticulosa i planificadora.En: Marta, on the other hand, was meticulous and a planner.Ca: Per ella, cada detall tenia importància, i el més important era que la gira fos un èxit complet.En: For her, every detail mattered, and the most important thing was for the tour to be a complete success.Ca: A mesura que avançaven, Oriol va decidir desvincular-se del recorregut previst.En: As they advanced, Oriol decided to break away from the planned route.Ca: "Mira, Marta", va dir amb entusiasme, "anem per aquest camí! És una vista espectacular!".En: "Look, Marta," he said enthusiastically, "let's take this road! It's a spectacular view!"Ca: En veure les preocupacions en els ulls de la Marta, l'Oriol va somriure.En: Seeing the concerns in Marta's eyes, Oriol smiled.Ca: "Relaxem-nos, seran uns minuts", va afegir.En: "Let's relax, it'll just be a few minutes," he added.Ca: Al principi, Marta va resistir la idea.En: At first, Marta resisted the idea.Ca: El seu horari era molt ajustat, i el temps era crucial.En: Her schedule was very tight, and time was crucial.Ca: Però, veient l'emoció d'Oriol i esperant que aquest paisatge magnífic atragués els clients, va decidir confiar en ell.En: But seeing Oriol's excitement and hoping that this magnificent landscape would attract clients, she decided to trust him.Ca: La parada va ser un èxit visual.En: The stop turned out to be a visual success.Ca: Els clients, encantats pel panorama assolellat amb les muntanyes com a teló de fons, van treure fotografies i compartien somriures d'admiració.En: The clients, delighted by the sunlit panorama with the mountains as a backdrop, took pictures and shared smiles of admiration.Ca: No obstant això, quan Oriol i Marta reprengueren el viatge, es van adonar que arribaven tard a la reunió crucial.En: However, when Oriol and Marta resumed their journey, they realized they were late for the crucial meeting.Ca: Marta, calmada i resolutiva, va decidir aprofitar la situació.En: Marta, calm and resolute, decided to make the most of the situation.Ca: Va començar la presentació abans que arribessin: una explicació informal del celler i dels seus vins, enmig de les riures i preguntes dels convidats.En: She began the presentation before they arrived: an informal explanation of the winery and its wines, amidst the laughter and questions from the guests.Ca: El caliu que s'havia creat amb el moment inesperat es va traslladar a la reunió.En: The warmth created by the unexpected moment carried over to the meeting.Ca: Al final, els clients van valorar la proximitat i el toc personal que havien viscut.En: In the end, the clients valued the closeness and personal touch they experienced.Ca: Van signar una col·laboració a llarg termini amb el celler, impressionats per la professionalitat de Marta i la passió d'Oriol per la regió.En: They signed a long-term collaboration with the winery, impressed by Marta's professionalism and Oriol's passion for the region.Ca: De tornada a Barcelona, mentre el sol es ponia darrere de les muntanyes, Oriol i Marta reflexionaven sobre el viatge.En: On the way back to Barcelona, as the sun set behind the mountains, Oriol and Marta reflected on the trip.Ca: Oriol havia après la importància de la planificació, mentre que Marta havia après que, de vegades, els moments espontanis poden millorar el treball i les relacions.En: Oriol had learned the importance of planning, while Marta had learned that sometimes spontaneous moments can enhance work and relationships.Ca: Aquell viatge no només havia assegurat una col·laboració fructífera, sinó que també havia enfortit la seva amistat i comprensió mútua, envoltats pels bells paisatges del Pirineu.En: That trip not only secured a fruitful collaboration, but it also strengthened their friendship and mutual understanding, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Pyrenees. Vocabulary Words:the wind: el ventthe winery: el cellerpicturesque: pintoresquesthrill: emocionsimpulsive: impulsiuopportunity: oportunitatcharisma: carismameticulous: meticulosaplanner: planificadoradetail: detallsuccess: èxitspectacular: espectacularconcerns: preocupacionscrucial: crucialresolute: resolutivainformal: informalbackground: teló de fonsamidst: enmig dewarmth: caliulaughter: riuresunexpected: inesperatproximity: proximitatpersonal touch: toc personalcollaboration: col·laboracióprofessionalism: professionalitatreflection: reflexióspontaneous: espontanisenhance: millorarrelationship: relacionsmutual understanding: comprensió mútua

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Autumn's Hidden Jewel: A Wine Lover's Serendipity in Eger Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2025-09-28-22-34-02-hu Story Transcript:Hu: Eger városában, ahol a levelek aranysárgára váltanak, Zsófia a piacon sétált.En: In the city of Eger, where the leaves turn golden yellow, Zsófia was strolling through the market.Hu: A levegő hűvös volt, az ősz jelei mindenhol feltűntek.En: The air was cool, and signs of autumn appeared everywhere.Hu: A kövekkel kirakott utcák tele voltak jellegzetes bódékkal, ahol friss zöldségek és gyümölcsök mellett a helyi borok is csillogtak a napfénytől.En: The cobblestone streets were filled with characteristic stalls, where, alongside fresh vegetables and fruits, local wines glittered in the sunlight.Hu: Zsófia lelkesedése az orrában volt érezhető – a borok iránti szenvedély a szívében.En: Zsófia's enthusiasm could be felt in her breath – a passion for wines was in her heart.Hu: Zsófia a közelgő kóstolóra keresett egy különleges bort, amivel meg tudta lepni kollégáit.En: Zsófia was searching for a special wine for the upcoming tasting, something that could surprise her colleagues.Hu: A piactéri zajban egyszer csak egy bódéhoz ért, ahol egy idős férfi, László, kedvesen mosolygott rá.En: Amid the market noise, she eventually arrived at a stall where an elderly man, László, greeted her with a kind smile.Hu: László évszázadok óta híres borászatot vezetett Egerben, és a környék legselymesebb borai nála lelhetők.En: László had been leading a winery famous for centuries in Eger, and the silkiest wines of the region were found with him.Hu: – Üdvözlöm! Miben segíthetek? – kérdezte László, miközben megigazította kalapját.En: “Hello! How can I help you?” asked László, adjusting his hat.Hu: – Egy különleges bort keresek. Olyat, ami igazán egyedülálló – felelte Zsófia az abban rejlő reménnyel.En: “I'm looking for a special wine. Something truly unique,” replied Zsófia with a hopeful glint.Hu: László bólintott. – Eger sok titkot rejt. Mi a véleménye magáról? Bízik az orrában, vagy a szemeit követi?En: László nodded. “Eger hides many secrets. What do you think about yourself? Do you trust your nose, or do you follow your eyes?”Hu: Zsófia elgondolkodott. Bár sok könyvet olvasott a borokról, a saját megérzéseiben mélyebben hinni vágyott.En: Zsófia pondered. Although she had read many books about wines, she wanted to believe more deeply in her own intuition.Hu: László különféle borokat mutatott neki.En: László showed her various wines.Hu: Zsófia szorgalmasan próbálta felismerni a különbségeket.En: Zsófia diligently tried to recognize the differences.Hu: Minden palack egy új világot nyitott, és Zsófia gyorsan elveszett az ízek kavalkádjában.En: Each bottle opened a new world, and she quickly lost herself in the whirlwind of flavors.Hu: Végül azonban megállt egy szerény címkéjű üveg előtt.En: Eventually, she stopped in front of a bottle with a modest label.Hu: – Ez mi lehet? – kérdezte bizonytalanul.En: “What could this be?” she asked uncertainly.Hu: – Ez ritka. Nem sokan figyelnek rá, de különleges zamatot rejt – mondta László.En: “This is rare. Not many pay attention to it, but it hides a special flavor,” said László.Hu: Zsófia, bízva a megérzésében, eldöntötte, hogy ezt a palackot választja.En: Trusting her intuition, Zsófia decided to choose this bottle.Hu: Megszaglászta, ízlelgette a bor illatát.En: She sniffed and tasted the wine's aroma.Hu: Hirtelen megérezték a mézes, fűszeres jegyeket, amik hirtelen elárasztották érzékeit.En: Suddenly, they sensed the honeyed, spicy notes that suddenly overwhelmed their senses.Hu: – Szegfűszeg? Talán vanília is? – kérdezte kicsit bizonytalanul.En: “Clove? Maybe vanilla too?” she asked a bit uncertainly.Hu: László elmosolyodott. – Ügyes! – mondta elismerően. – Légy büszke, a jó borász a szívével és az orrával dolgozik.En: László smiled. “Clever!” he said appreciatively. “Be proud, a good winemaker works with their heart and nose.”Hu: Zsófia vásárlása után boldogan köszönte meg a lehetőséget.En: After her purchase, Zsófia happily thanked him for the opportunity.Hu: László jókívánságaival az oldalán indult hazafelé.En: With László's good wishes by her side, she headed home.Hu: Tudta, hogy jó választást tett, és megértette, hogy a borok világa nemcsak tudomány, hanem művészet is.En: She knew she had made a good choice and understood that the world of wines is not only a science but also an art.Hu: Ahogy elhagyta a piacot, Zsófia magabiztosabb volt, mint valaha.En: As she left the market, Zsófia was more confident than ever.Hu: A bor a színek, ízek és illatok tökéletes kavalkádja volt, amit saját maga fedezett fel.En: The wine was the perfect blend of colors, flavors, and aromas, discovered by her own self.Hu: Hercegszeneválogatásában László kedves szavai visszhangzottak.En: In her selection, László's kind words echoed.Hu: Eger hömpölygő utcáin sétálva az ősz különös varázsát érezte magában, és egy új fejezetet indított el az életében, tele lelkesedéssel és önbizalommal.En: Walking through the winding streets of Eger, she felt the peculiar charm of autumn within her, initiating a new chapter in her life filled with enthusiasm and confidence. Vocabulary Words:strolling: sétáltcobblestone: kövekkel kirakottcharacteristic: jellegzetessilkiest: legselymesebbtasting: kóstológreeted: kedvesen mosolygottnod: bólintottintuition: megérzéswhirlwind: kavalkádmodest: szerényflavor: zamatsniffed: megszaglásztahoneyed: mézesspicy: fűszeresclove: szegfűszegvanilla: vaníliaappreciatively: elismerőenconfidence: önbizalomenthusiasm: lelkesedéspeculiar: különöscharm: varázsdiscovered: felfedezettcenturies: évszázadokblend: kavalkádopportunity: lehetőségself: magainitiating: elindítottfelt: érezteregion: környékspecial: különleges

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Cobblestones to Dreams: A Tale of Serendipity & Inspiration Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2025-09-28-07-38-20-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Under den klara himlen i Gamla Stan, bland smala kullerstensgator och färgglada byggnader, doftade marknaden av nybakade bullar och kryddor.En: Under the clear sky in Gamla Stan, among narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, the market smelled of freshly baked pastries and spices.Sv: Höstlöven knastrade under fötterna medan människor strosade mellan stånden.En: Autumn leaves crunched underfoot as people strolled between the stalls.Sv: Elin, som var klädd i sin favoritjacka, stannade vid ett bord fyllt med handgjorda keramikskålar.En: Elin, dressed in her favorite jacket, paused at a table filled with handmade ceramic bowls.Sv: Hennes dröm var att öppna en egen liten hantverksbutik en dag.En: Her dream was to open her own small craft store one day.Sv: Oskar, som nyligen flyttat till Stockholm, gick nyfiken omkring.En: Oskar, who had recently moved to Stockholm, wandered around curiously.Sv: Han hoppades att de gamla gatorna skulle ge honom inspiration till sin roman.En: He hoped the old streets would provide him with inspiration for his novel.Sv: Efter några månader utan framgång kände han sig fast och behövde en ny vinkel för sin berättelse.En: After several months without success, he felt stuck and needed a new angle for his story.Sv: De stötte ihop av en slump vid ett bord med trähantverk.En: They bumped into each other by chance at a table with wooden crafts.Sv: Oskar hade plockat upp en snidad häst när Elin såg upp och log.En: Oskar had picked up a carved horse when Elin looked up and smiled.Sv: "Visst är de vackra?En: "Aren't they beautiful?"Sv: " sa hon och pekade på hästen i hans hand.En: she said, pointing to the horse in his hand.Sv: Oskar nickade.En: Oskar nodded.Sv: "Jag försöker hitta nya idéer för min bok.En: "I'm trying to find new ideas for my book.Sv: Vet du något om historien här?En: Do you know anything about the history here?"Sv: " Elin, som älskade historia lika mycket som hantverk, började genast berätta om Gamla Stans rika förflutna.En: Elin, who loved history as much as crafts, immediately began to tell him about Gamla Stan's rich past.Sv: De började prata, och snart delade Elin en hemlighet om sin dröm att starta en butik.En: They started talking, and soon Elin shared a secret about her dream to start a store.Sv: Hon undrade om Oskar kunde ge några råd, vilket han gärna ville.En: She wondered if Oskar could offer any advice, which he gladly wanted to do.Sv: Oskar lyssnade noga.En: Oskar listened carefully.Sv: "Kanske kan vi hjälpa varandra," sa han.En: "Perhaps we can help each other," he said.Sv: "Jag behöver inspiration.En: "I need inspiration.Sv: Hur skulle du känna för att visa mig staden?En: How would you feel about showing me the city?"Sv: ”De tillbringade eftermiddagen med att vandra genom Gamla Stan.En: They spent the afternoon wandering through Gamla Stan.Sv: Då de rundade ett hörn, stannade de plötsligt framför ett gammalt, stängt butikshörn.En: As they rounded a corner, they suddenly stopped in front of an old, closed shopfront.Sv: Fönstren var dammiga, men det gick ändå att ana potentialen.En: The windows were dusty, but the potential was still apparent.Sv: Elins ögon lyste.En: Elin's eyes lit up.Sv: "Det här är perfekt!En: "This is perfect!"Sv: " utbrast hon.En: she exclaimed.Sv: Oskar höll med.En: Oskar agreed.Sv: Han kunde se sitt nya kapitel utvecklas precis här, i denna gamla, mystiska byggnad.En: He could see his new chapter unfolding right here, in this old, mysterious building.Sv: Där, bland löv som virvlade i vinden, bestämde de sig för att samarbeta.En: There, among leaves swirling in the wind, they decided to collaborate.Sv: Oskar skulle väva in Elins drömmar i sin roman, medan hon började planera för hur butiken kunde bli verklighet.En: Oskar would weave Elin's dreams into his novel, while she began to plan how the store could become a reality.Sv: De lämnade Gamla Stan med ett leende, vetande att de båda funnit nytt hopp och inspiration.En: They left Gamla Stan with a smile, knowing that they both had found new hope and inspiration.Sv: Och så, i den klara höstluften, steg två drömmar mot framtiden, en sida och en glashurts i taget.En: And so, in the clear autumn air, two dreams rose towards the future, one page and one glass counter at a time. Vocabulary Words:cobblestone: kullerstenspastries: bullarcrunched: knastradestrolled: strosadeceramic: keramiknovel: romanangled: vinkelcarved: snidadpointing: pekadechatter: pratadesecret: hemlighetcollaborate: samarbetapotential: potentialswirling: virvladeglass counter: glashurtsshopfront: butikshörnunfolding: utvecklasstumbled: stötteeagerly: gärnascene: scenrecommendation: råddusty: dammigaappeared: anadesweave: vävawandered: vandrainspiration: inspirationpotential: potentialchapter: kapitelbridging: bryggahope: hopp

Dedication, Reinvention, and Serendipity! TRS retiree and owner of Rose Creek Guitars, Rick Gunn, discusses setting yourself up for success before and embracing new beginnings in retirement. How did the former CFO of Forsyth County School District end up designing and building custom guitars? Find out in this episode!We'll also discuss:Rick Gunn's career journey and retirementSavings plans such as a 457 or 403(b) plan, good debt and bad debt, and the benefits of saving earlyEntrepreneurship and how to create your own second actTimestamps:00:00 – Intro02:46 – Rick Gunn's Role as CFO for Forsyth County Schools04:18 – The Role of CFO: How It Helped Plan for Retirement05:23 – Advice for Active Members: “Squirreling Away” & Sacrifices07:27 – When Do You Know It's Time to Retire?08:31 – Career Decisions: The Light at the End of the Tunnel09:49 – Founding Rose Creek Guitars: The Inspiration & Challenges15:01 – Key Lessons About Entrepreneurship20:33 – Advice for Embracing New Beginnings22:23 – Looking Forward: What's Next for Rick Gunn?23:56 – A Closer Look at a Custom Rose Creek Guitar (#50)26:52 – Last Words of Advice28:00 – OutroAre you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Rick Gunn, TRS Retiree and Owner of Rose Creek GuitarsFor more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgiaInstagram: #RetirementPlanning #PensionPodcasts #RetirementThis podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and may not reflect the views of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Love Beneath the Waves: A Tale of Serendipity and Science Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-09-26-22-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: האור במוזיאון הדגים היה עמום, מאיר באור נעים את האקווריומים הגדולים.En: The light in the aquarium museum was dim, pleasantly illuminating the large aquariums.He: התקרה התכבדה באורות כחולים, והאוויר הקר והמלוח מילא את המקום.En: The ceiling boasted blue lights, and the cool and salty air filled the space.He: הוא נשמע כרחש של מים זורמים בשקט.En: It sounded like the quiet murmur of flowing water.He: אוריאל, צעיר עם תשוקה עזה לביולוגיה ימית, שוטט בין הדגים.En: Uriel, a young man with a fierce passion for marine biology, wandered among the fish.He: בעולם המים, תמיד הרגיש בבית.En: In the world of water, he always felt at home.He: בעונת הסתיו, כשהעלים המוזהבים כיסו את הרחובות, אוריאל הרגיש בודד.En: In the autumn season, when the golden leaves covered the streets, Uriel felt lonely.He: חלומותיו על אהבה והבנה היו גבוהים כגאות הים.En: His dreams of love and understanding were as high as the tides.He: נורה, אמנית מחפשת השראה, הביטה בדגים המשתכשכים.En: Nora, an artist seeking inspiration, watched the fish splashing around.He: היא עמדה מול האקווריום הגדול וראתה את הדגים הכחולים שוחים בשלווה.En: She stood in front of the large aquarium and saw the blue fish swimming peacefully.He: אבל רעיונות חדשים לא הגיעו.En: Yet, new ideas did not come to her.He: כשהגיעו לאזור הצבים, אוריאל שם לב לנורה.En: When they reached the turtle area, Uriel noticed Nora.He: הוא ראה אותה רחוקה, מרוכזת.En: He saw her at a distance, focused.He: נורה נראתה יפה.En: Nora looked beautiful.He: "אולי אנסה לדבר איתה," חשב בלבו, אך הרגשת ביישנות החזיקה אותו.En: "Maybe I'll try to talk to her," he thought to himself, but shyness held him back.He: הצבים האיטיים נראו מרגיעים.En: The slow turtles appeared calming.He: אוריאל מצא אומץ ופנה לנורה.En: Uriel found the courage and approached Nora.He: "את יודעת," הוא לחז, "הצבים יכולים לחיות מעל מאה שנה.En: "You know," he whispered, "turtles can live for over a hundred years."He: "נורה, מופתעת מהשיחה הבלתי צפויה, חייכה.En: Nora, surprised by the unexpected conversation, smiled.He: "כן, שמעתי.En: "Yes, I've heard.He: זה מרתק.En: It's fascinating."He: " הם עמדו שם, החליפו מילים קצרות, התכוונו תחילה לדבר קטן יותר ונדמה היה שהקירות בינהם מתחילים להתמוסס.En: They stood there, exchanging short words, initially intending to speak of something smaller, and it seemed like the walls between them began to melt.He: כאשר הגיעו לתערוכת המדוזות, השיחה התפתחה.En: When they arrived at the jellyfish exhibit, the conversation developed.He: "זה כמו לראות אמנות חיה," אמרה נורה.En: "It's like seeing living art," Nora said.He: אוריאל התפעל מהידע שלה, והם דיברו רבות.En: Uriel was impressed by her knowledge, and they talked a lot.He: הזמן עבר מהר, והמדוזות רקדו באורות הלילה כמו פנסים קטנים ומוזרים.En: Time passed quickly, and the jellyfish danced in the evening lights like small strange lanterns.He: השיחה עשתה פלאים.En: The conversation worked wonders.He: אוריאל כבר לא היה ביישן כל כך, ונורה כבר לא ראתה את השיחה כהפרעה.En: Uriel was no longer so shy, and Nora no longer saw the conversation as an interruption.He: בלבם נולד ניצוץ.En: A spark was born in their hearts.He: "ניפגש שוב?En: "Shall we meet again?"He: " שאל אוריאל, קולו מלא תקווה.En: Uriel asked, his voice full of hope.He: נורה הביטה בו וענתה בחיוך.En: Nora looked at him and answered with a smile.He: "בהחלט.En: "Definitely.He: אני אשמח.En: I would love to."He: "כך, בעוד החגים בפתח ויום הכיפורים ברקע, החליטו להמשיך הלאה.En: Thus, with the holidays approaching and Yom Kippur in the background, they decided to move forward.He: הסתיו היה מתחיל חדש עבורם.En: The autumn was a new beginning for them.He: אוריאל למד לפתוח את ליבו לאחרים, ונורה הבינה שהשראה יכולה לבוא ממקומות בלתי צפויים.En: Uriel learned to open his heart to others, and Nora realized that inspiration could come from unexpected places.He: מעתה, הם המשיכו יחד, מבחינתם העולם היה מעט יותר מואר.En: From now on, they continued together, and to them, the world felt a little brighter. Vocabulary Words:aquarium: אקווריוםdim: עמוםmurmur: רחשmarine biology: ביולוגיה ימיתwandered: שוטטgolden: מוזהביםtides: גאותseeking: מחפשתsplashing: משתכשכיםfocused: מרוכזתshyness: ביישנותunexpected: בלתי צפויהcalming: מרגיעיםmelt: מתמוססexhibit: תערוכהdeveloped: התפתחהlanterns: פנסיםinterruption: הפרעהspark: ניצוץhope: תקווהdefinitely: בהחלטapproaching: בפתחbackground: רקעrealized: הבינהinspiration: השראהunexpected places: מקומות בלתי צפוייםcontinued: המשיכוbrighter: מוארceiling: תקרהfierce: עזהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hindi: Serendipity on the Ganga: A Tale of Lost Bags and New Beginnings Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hi/episode/2025-09-24-22-34-02-hi Story Transcript:Hi: गंगा के तट पर बसे ऋषिकेश के शांत वातावरण में शरद ऋतु की सुगंधित हवा बह रही थी।En: In the tranquil environment of Rishikesh situated on the banks of the Ganga, the fragrant breeze of autumn was flowing.Hi: नवदुर्गा के उत्सव की हलचल के बीच, आरव और ईशानी अपने जीवन में नए अनुभवों की तलाश में थे।En: Amidst the hustle of the Navdurga festival, Aarav and Ishani were in search of new experiences in their lives.Hi: आरव, तकनीकी दुनिया से थोड़ा अवकाश लेकर आध्यात्मिक शांति की खोज में था, और ईशानी अपनी अगली कला के लिए प्रेरणा ढूंढ रही थी।En: Aarav, taking a little break from the technological world, was in pursuit of spiritual peace, while Ishani was looking for inspiration for her next art piece.Hi: एक दिन, ध्यान सत्र के बाद, आरव ने भूरे रंग का बैग उठाया, यह सोचते हुए कि वह उसका है।En: One day, after a meditation session, Aarav picked up a brown bag, thinking it was his.Hi: जबकि ईशानी, उस स्थान पर छोड़ गए काले रंग के बैग को ले गई।En: Meanwhile, Ishani left with a black bag that was left at the spot.Hi: जब आरव ने अपने बैग में देखा, तो उसे ड्रमिंग सर्कल का निमंत्रण मिला।En: When Aarav looked into the bag, he found an invitation to a drumming circle.Hi: आश्चर्यचकित आरव को समझ नहीं आया कि यह निमंत्रण उसके पास कैसे आया।En: Surprised, Aarav couldn't understand how this invitation came to him.Hi: वहीं, ईशानी आरव के गैजेट्स के साथ घर गई, जो उसके लिए एक नई दुनिया की तरह था।En: On the other hand, Ishani went home with Aarav's gadgets, which was like a whole new world for her.Hi: थोड़ी देर तक सोचने के बाद, आरव ने बुधवार रात के ड्रमिंग सर्कल में शामिल होने का निर्णय लिया।En: After pondering for a while, Aarav decided to attend the drumming circle on Wednesday night.Hi: उसकी अनिश्चितता और डर के बावजूद, उसके मन में कुछ नया करने की खुशी भी थी।En: Despite his uncertainty and fear, he was also excited to try something new.Hi: उधर, ईशानी तकनीक से जादू की तरह मनोरमित हुई।En: Meanwhile, Ishani was enchanted by the magic of technology.Hi: लेकिन उसे जल्दी ही एहसास हुआ कि वह आरव का बैग अपने पास रखकर गलत कर रही है।En: But she soon realized that she was doing wrong by keeping Aarav's bag with her.Hi: ड्रमिंग सर्कल में आरव ने धीरे-धीरे ताल में खोते हुए खुद को लय में ढाल लिया।En: At the drumming circle, Aarav slowly lost himself in the rhythm and adjusted to the beat.Hi: उसके लिए यह एक विशेष अनुभव था।En: It was a special experience for him.Hi: अचानक बीच सर्कल में ईशानी पहुंची, आरव के बैग के साथ।En: Suddenly, in the middle of the circle, Ishani arrived with Aarav's bag.Hi: उन्हें देखकर आरव मुस्कुराया।En: Seeing her, Aarav smiled.Hi: दोनों की नजरें मिलीं और वे हँस पड़े।En: Their eyes met, and they laughed.Hi: इसके बाद आरव और ईशानी ने तय किया कि वे दोनों तकनीक और परंपरा को मिलाकर एक डिजिटल आर्ट और म्यूजिक सत्र की योजना बनाएंगे।En: Afterwards, Aarav and Ishani decided that they would combine technology and tradition to plan a digital art and music session.Hi: इस अनुभव ने आरव को जीवन की अनिश्चितताओं और कलात्मक अभिव्यक्ति के महत्व को समझाया।En: This experience taught Aarav the importance of life's uncertainties and artistic expression.Hi: वहीं, ईशानी ने प्रौद्योगिकी के साथ अपनी रचनात्मकता की नई संभावनाओं को अपनाया।En: Meanwhile, Ishani embraced new possibilities for her creativity with technology.Hi: गंगा की बहती जलधारा ने उनके नए दोस्ती और साझा सपनों को सलामी दी।En: The flowing waters of the Ganga saluted their new friendship and shared dreams. Vocabulary Words:tranquil: शांतfragrant: सुगंधितhustle: हलचलpursuit: खोजinspiration: प्रेरणाmeditation: ध्यानpondering: सोचनेuncertainty: अनिश्चितताenchanted: मनोरमितrhythm: तालbeat: लयsaluted: सलामी दीsession: सत्रgadgets: गैजेट्सdrapespective: दृष्टिकोणspecial: विशेषlaughter: हँसीembraced: अपनायाpossibilities: संभावनाएँcreativity: रचनात्मकताinvitation: निमंत्रणsurprised: आश्चर्यचकितrealized: एहसास हुआcombine: मिलाकरtradition: परंपराexperience: अनुभवexpression: अभिव्यक्तिartistic: कलात्मकflowing: बहतीshared: साझा

In this episode of IDEA Collider, we are joined by Alex Telford, a biotech founder, writer, and thinker based in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the co-founder of Convoke Bio, Alex discusses his journey from studying biochemistry at UCL to founding a company that develops software tools for streamlining biopharmaceutical workflows.The conversation dives into the impact of AI and language models on the biotech industry, addressing inefficiencies in drug development, and exploring the potential of synthetic biology and personalized medicine. The discussion also touches on the future of drug discovery, China's role in biotech, and the challenges of understanding neuroscience and consciousness. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of biopharma innovation! 00:00 Welcome to Idea Collider00:04 Introducing Alex Telford01:59 Alex's Journey from UCL to Convoke Bio05:29 The Mission and Work of Convoke Bio07:57 Challenges in Pharma Decision Making14:05 The Role of AI in Pharma18:26 Knowledge Management and AI27:58 Staying Updated in the Fast-Moving AI Field30:25 AI's Impact on Industry Economics31:38 AI in Clinical Trials and Drug Development35:56 China's Role in Drug Discovery39:24 Neuroscience and AI: Blurring the Lines46:05 Future Predictions in Pharma51:20 Addressing Cognitive Bias in Pharma53:13 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions Keep up with Alex Telford;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-telford/Website: atelfo.github.ioX: https://twitter.com/atelfoSubstack: atelfo.substack.com Follow Mike Rea On;Website: https://www.ideapharma.com/X: https://x.com/ideapharmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://podcast.ideapharma.com/

She meets her 'Prince Charming' by accident. by Bakeboss. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. I was late and in a rush add that to the slick streets from the first rain of the season and if you mix in a little of not paying attention you then have the perfect recipe for an accident. As you can see, I had no one to blame for sitting here in a ditch waiting for a tow instead of being on the blind date where I was supposed to be. I called Devon, or was it Kevin but only got voice mail; I left a message stating my problem and an apology for standing him up. It's funny but I remember thinking for the first time since this was set up that I hope he was a loser so I hadn't blown my chance for meeting my ‘Prince Charming'. Triple A said that due to the rain, they were extremely busy but they'd get to me as soon as possible. I sat in the car mad at myself for doing yet again something stupid and as I watched the rain slide down my windshield, I felt my tears slide down my cheeks. Who was I kidding Melvin or was it Ivan, was not going to be my prince, princes don't go on blind dates they have girls falling all over themselves to date them. No, maybe I was better off missing this set up no matter what my friend Grace said about him, he was probably a loser anyway. I kept asking myself what I was doing wrong why couldn't I met Mister Right; I just knew he was out there but I simply couldn't find him. It wasn't that he had to be Brad Pitt it was just I didn't want Kramer, surely between those two types there had to be someone for me.To pass time as I waited I once again made a list of the pro and cons of me, Julie Harris, at least this time I kept the list just in my head. OK, well I know I'm no Angelina Jolie but I no Maya Rudolph either. Brown hair with brown eyes, kind of mousey but not bad. Thirty-three, at least I'm not some twenty-year-old bimbo and yet I'm still young enough to be called a girl. Yeah I could lose a few pounds but I am not fat no matter what my anorexic sister says. If I was a person who budgeted their time and paid attention to what they were doing I guess I wouldn't be in this ditch would I. This was doing me no good at all as I am incapable of making an honest opinion of myself and then I was saved of this epiphany by the flashing lights of the tow. I rolled down my window as he approached and he knelt down to talk to me. Hatless in the rain meant his blonde hair was matted to his head and water running down his face. I stared into cerulean blue eyes that were bright and concerned. “Are you all right miss, do you need me to call medical help?” I was mesmerized and could only manage a shake of my head. He told me I could sit in his truck while he fished my car from the ditch. When I got out of my car, I tripped on something, which broke my heel sending me falling into his arms. He caught me, and picked me up as if I weighed nothing, then carried me to his big white truck. I put my arms around him and held on for dear life, not that I was afraid he would drop me, no I just didn't want him to put me down. I sat waiting as he hooked my vehicle to his tow bar and I noticed how clean and organized it was. I then noticed the plastic horses head attached to the hood as an ornament, that's funny he arrives to save me in a big white horse. He opened the door and then standing half in the cab took off his raincoat and tucked it behind the seat. I got my first good look at him illuminated by his interior lights my first thought was behemoth, or maybe that was my second thought as my first was ‘oh my god'. This man had to be close to Three hundred pounds and yes he was fat but he also had a lot of muscle. I would have to ask him if he was football player and then I realized I haven't said one word yet. I open my mouth to speak but he beat me to it, “I'm sorry miss but your car is not drivable, do you have a preference as to where you want it towed?” I merely shook my head no, as I screamed to myself ‘speak you dullard, speak'. “Why do you have a horse's head hood ornament on your truck?” Way to go girl you're really making an impression on this guy. “It's something my boss did, he thinks it's funny but I think it's humiliating. You see my last name is Charmant which he knew means charming from his high school French and my first name is Price after my mother's father…” “So that makes you Prince Charming coming to my rescue on your big white horse.” “Guess how many times a day I hear that line.” I told him I was sorry for beating a dead horse and giggled and he smiled showing me his straight white teeth. “If I tow you to the yard you'll have to pay a night's storage fee but if I tow you to your home you can park it for free.” “But then I'll have to have it towed to a garage tomorrow, won't that cost more?” “Let me make you a deal, you're my last tow, my shift is over so I'll tow you to your house and then on my way to work tomorrow I'll tow you to wherever, no charge. All you have to do is promise no more prince charming remarks” “I even do you one better, do you speak Italian? My last name is Biancaneve, which is Italian for Snow White, and my first name is Ella, and that roughly translates into little, so don't talk to me about being teased about your name.” He laughed at this as he agreed my name alone was worth the cost of his tow job. I felt so at ease with Price as we exchanged light banter sprinkled with laughs that when we arrived at my place I automatically invited him up for coffee. He looked at me for a long time those blue eyes piercing into my soul. I think he was judging the sincerity of my offer, and then he smiled saying he'd love a cup of coffee. Riding up in the elevator, I realized I hadn't eaten yet and I was starving so I upgraded my offer of coffee to a quick dinner. He said OK but only if he could help and how could I say no to an offer like that. Price put the pasta on to boil as I dug out some of my grandmother's red sauce from my freezer and popped it in the microwave. While he graded cheese I made a quick salad from whatever greens I found in my frig and by the time he got the wine opened the pasta was done. To top it off he helped me clean the kitchen after our meal. We took our wine to the front room and when we finished that I opened another bottle, it was not until we were half way through the third bottle that I realized we were in trouble. I knew I was buzzed but I didn't care, I took the glass from his hand and leaned in close, “Sir Prince Charming, you have saved the fair Young Snow White and it is now time for you to claim your reward.” With that, I put my lips to his, he in turn wrapped his strong arms around me, and we kissed long and deeply. When we finally broke our embrace without a word I took his hand and led him to my bed where we made frenetic love as if it was our last night on earth. I awoke in the morning with a pounding headache yet enveloped in my Prince's arms and I knew right then there was no place I rather be. Will we live happily ever after as they do in fairy tales? I can't answer that and all I'll say is that now for the present I'm living as close to a fairy tale as possible. Really, what more could I wish for? by Bakeboss .

She meets her 'Prince Charming' by accident. by Bakeboss. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. I was late and in a rush add that to the slick streets from the first rain of the season and if you mix in a little of not paying attention you then have the perfect recipe for an accident. As you can see, I had no one to blame for sitting here in a ditch waiting for a tow instead of being on the blind date where I was supposed to be. I called Devon, or was it Kevin but only got voice mail; I left a message stating my problem and an apology for standing him up. It's funny but I remember thinking for the first time since this was set up that I hope he was a loser so I hadn't blown my chance for meeting my ‘Prince Charming'. Triple A said that due to the rain, they were extremely busy but they'd get to me as soon as possible. I sat in the car mad at myself for doing yet again something stupid and as I watched the rain slide down my windshield, I felt my tears slide down my cheeks. Who was I kidding Melvin or was it Ivan, was not going to be my prince, princes don't go on blind dates they have girls falling all over themselves to date them. No, maybe I was better off missing this set up no matter what my friend Grace said about him, he was probably a loser anyway. I kept asking myself what I was doing wrong why couldn't I met Mister Right; I just knew he was out there but I simply couldn't find him. It wasn't that he had to be Brad Pitt it was just I didn't want Kramer, surely between those two types there had to be someone for me.To pass time as I waited I once again made a list of the pro and cons of me, Julie Harris, at least this time I kept the list just in my head. OK, well I know I'm no Angelina Jolie but I no Maya Rudolph either. Brown hair with brown eyes, kind of mousey but not bad. Thirty-three, at least I'm not some twenty-year-old bimbo and yet I'm still young enough to be called a girl. Yeah I could lose a few pounds but I am not fat no matter what my anorexic sister says. If I was a person who budgeted their time and paid attention to what they were doing I guess I wouldn't be in this ditch would I. This was doing me no good at all as I am incapable of making an honest opinion of myself and then I was saved of this epiphany by the flashing lights of the tow. I rolled down my window as he approached and he knelt down to talk to me. Hatless in the rain meant his blonde hair was matted to his head and water running down his face. I stared into cerulean blue eyes that were bright and concerned. “Are you all right miss, do you need me to call medical help?” I was mesmerized and could only manage a shake of my head. He told me I could sit in his truck while he fished my car from the ditch. When I got out of my car, I tripped on something, which broke my heel sending me falling into his arms. He caught me, and picked me up as if I weighed nothing, then carried me to his big white truck. I put my arms around him and held on for dear life, not that I was afraid he would drop me, no I just didn't want him to put me down. I sat waiting as he hooked my vehicle to his tow bar and I noticed how clean and organized it was. I then noticed the plastic horses head attached to the hood as an ornament, that's funny he arrives to save me in a big white horse. He opened the door and then standing half in the cab took off his raincoat and tucked it behind the seat. I got my first good look at him illuminated by his interior lights my first thought was behemoth, or maybe that was my second thought as my first was ‘oh my god'. This man had to be close to Three hundred pounds and yes he was fat but he also had a lot of muscle. I would have to ask him if he was football player and then I realized I haven't said one word yet. I open my mouth to speak but he beat me to it, “I'm sorry miss but your car is not drivable, do you have a preference as to where you want it towed?” I merely shook my head no, as I screamed to myself ‘speak you dullard, speak'. “Why do you have a horse's head hood ornament on your truck?” Way to go girl you're really making an impression on this guy. “It's something my boss did, he thinks it's funny but I think it's humiliating. You see my last name is Charmant which he knew means charming from his high school French and my first name is Price after my mother's father…” “So that makes you Prince Charming coming to my rescue on your big white horse.” “Guess how many times a day I hear that line.” I told him I was sorry for beating a dead horse and giggled and he smiled showing me his straight white teeth. “If I tow you to the yard you'll have to pay a night's storage fee but if I tow you to your home you can park it for free.” “But then I'll have to have it towed to a garage tomorrow, won't that cost more?” “Let me make you a deal, you're my last tow, my shift is over so I'll tow you to your house and then on my way to work tomorrow I'll tow you to wherever, no charge. All you have to do is promise no more prince charming remarks” “I even do you one better, do you speak Italian? My last name is Biancaneve, which is Italian for Snow White, and my first name is Ella, and that roughly translates into little, so don't talk to me about being teased about your name.” He laughed at this as he agreed my name alone was worth the cost of his tow job. I felt so at ease with Price as we exchanged light banter sprinkled with laughs that when we arrived at my place I automatically invited him up for coffee. He looked at me for a long time those blue eyes piercing into my soul. I think he was judging the sincerity of my offer, and then he smiled saying he'd love a cup of coffee. Riding up in the elevator, I realized I hadn't eaten yet and I was starving so I upgraded my offer of coffee to a quick dinner. He said OK but only if he could help and how could I say no to an offer like that. Price put the pasta on to boil as I dug out some of my grandmother's red sauce from my freezer and popped it in the microwave. While he graded cheese I made a quick salad from whatever greens I found in my frig and by the time he got the wine opened the pasta was done. To top it off he helped me clean the kitchen after our meal. We took our wine to the front room and when we finished that I opened another bottle, it was not until we were half way through the third bottle that I realized we were in trouble. I knew I was buzzed but I didn't care, I took the glass from his hand and leaned in close, “Sir Prince Charming, you have saved the fair Young Snow White and it is now time for you to claim your reward.” With that, I put my lips to his, he in turn wrapped his strong arms around me, and we kissed long and deeply. When we finally broke our embrace without a word I took his hand and led him to my bed where we made frenetic love as if it was our last night on earth. I awoke in the morning with a pounding headache yet enveloped in my Prince's arms and I knew right then there was no place I rather be. Will we live happily ever after as they do in fairy tales? I can't answer that and all I'll say is that now for the present I'm living as close to a fairy tale as possible. Really, what more could I wish for? by Bakeboss .

In this radiant episode of Choosing Joy, host Deborah Joy Winans Williams sits down with the one and only Gabourey Sidibe—award-winning actress, director, and mother—to talk about choosing self-worth, navigating colorism, and embracing joy in a world that often tells you you’re not enough. From her unexpected journey into stardom with Precious to raising twins and reclaiming her own story, Gabby opens up with humor, honesty, and an unshakable spirit. She shares how her mother’s influence, her unconventional path into Hollywood, and her deeply grounded sense of self have kept her centered through fame, criticism, and cultural expectations. This conversation goes beyond celebrity—into what it means to love yourself loudly despite the noise. Expect laughter, real talk, a few tears, and a reminder that every person deserves good things. Whether you're an artist, a parent, or just someone trying to find peace in your own skin, this episode is for you. ✨ This is Choosing Joy at its most soulful and powerful. Chapter Markers 00:00 – We All Deserve Good Things 03:00 – Gabby’s Unexpected Journey into Hollywood 06:00 – Spirituality, Serendipity & Precious 09:00 – Gabby’s First Time on Set 12:00 – What Hollywood Really Is 1 5:00 – Colorism, Casting, and Identity 18:00 – Exhaustion, Projection & Protecting Joy 21:00 – Gabby on Self-Love and Her Mother 24:00 – Marriage, Kids & Redefining Want 27:00 – IVF, Motherhood & Living Fully 30:00 – The Power of Storytelling #GaboureySidibe #ChoosingJoyPodcast #DeborahJoyWinans #SelfLove #Colorism #HollywoodTruths #BlackMotherhood #BlackWomenInFilm #IVFStory #Precious #EmbraceJoy #ConfidenceJourney #BlackExcellence #WomenInHollywood #ActressInterviewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Theoretical physicist and bestselling author Lawrence Krauss (A Universe from Nothing, The Known Unknowns) explores the biggest questions we can ask: How did the universe begin? Why is there something rather than nothing? What is consciousness? And what will remain when every star has burned out?Krauss moves seamlessly from the hard science of the Big Bang and dark energy to existential philosophy, arguing that our cosmic insignificance is precisely what makes life meaningful. Along the way he shares personal stories—mentorship from Nobel laureates, serendipitous discoveries, his friendship with Christopher Hitchens—and explains how curiosity and rigorous science drive human progress.

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Serendipity in Shinjuku: A Tale of Dreams and New Beginnings Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2025-09-20-22-34-02-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 秋の空気が澄み渡る中、新宿御苑は静かで美しい場所でした。En: Amidst the clear autumn air, Shinjuku Gyoen was a quiet and beautiful place.Ja: 木々は黄金色に輝き、古い木の深い緑と対照的でした。En: The trees shone with golden hues, contrasting with the deep green of the old trees.Ja: アイコはこの静寂を感じるために、久しぶりに会社の仕事を離れて訪れていました。En: Aiko visited the place after a long while, leaving her company work behind, to feel this tranquility.Ja: 彼女は心の中で、多忙な日々からの解放を願っていました。En: In her heart, she longed for a release from her busy days.Ja: 一方、ハルトは大学生で、写真を愛する若者でした。En: Meanwhile, Haruto was a university student, a young man who loved photography.Ja: この日は、写真コンテストに出展するための完璧な写真を撮ろうと心に決め、カメラを手に訪れました。En: On this day, he was determined to take the perfect photograph to enter in a photography contest, so he visited with his camera in hand.Ja: 彼もまた、自分の未来について考えていました。En: He, too, was contemplating his future.Ja: 写真の道を進むべきか、勉強を続けるべきか、彼の心は揺れていました。En: Should he pursue a career in photography or continue with his studies?Ja: ふと、アイコはひとつのベンチに腰を下ろし、穏やかな時間を楽しんでいました。En: His heart was wavering.Ja: しかし、突然、視界を遮る何かを感じました。En: Suddenly, Aiko sat down on a bench, enjoying peaceful moments.Ja: ハルトが写真を撮ろうとした瞬間に彼女に近づいていたのです。En: However, she felt something block her view all of a sudden.Ja: ハルトは慌てて「すみません、ごめんなさい！En: Haruto had approached her at the exact moment when he was about to take a photo.Ja: 」と謝りました。En: He hastily apologized, "I'm sorry, excuse me!"Ja: アイコは最初驚きを隠せなかったが、彼を心から怒ることはありませんでした。En: Aiko couldn't hide her surprise at first, but she wasn't truly angry at him.Ja: むしろ、この偶然を機に話をすることに決めました。En: Rather, she decided to take this chance meeting as an opportunity to chat.Ja: 「大丈夫です、何かいい写真が撮れたらいいですね」と声をかけました。En: "It's all right, I hope you can capture a good photo," she said.Ja: こうして二人は話し始めました。En: Thus, the two began to talk.Ja: 写真について、自分の夢について、彼らはお互いの話に耳を傾けました。En: About photography, about their dreams, they listened to each other's stories.Ja: 気がつけば、空には大きな月が昇り、月見の祭りが近づいていました。En: Before they knew it, a large moon had risen in the sky, and the moon-viewing festival was approaching.Ja: 紙灯籠が歩道を照らし、月明かりが静かな風景を覆っていました。En: Paper lanterns illuminated the sidewalks, and moonlight quietly covered the scenery.Ja: アイコはハルトの情熱に触れ、日常を少しの間、忘れることができました。En: Aiko found herself touched by Haruto's passion, allowing her to momentarily forget her daily life.Ja: 彼のように、自分も何か新しいことに挑戦する勇気が必要だと感じました。En: She felt the need to have courage to take on something new, just like him.Ja: そして、ハルトもまた、彼女の勤勉さに感銘を受けました。En: Haruto was, in turn, impressed by her diligence.Ja: 自分の情熱を追うことに対する不安が少し消えたように思えました。En: It seemed as though his anxiety about pursuing his passion had diminished somewhat.Ja: 最後に、二人はそれぞれの道に戻ることになりました。En: In the end, they went back to their respective paths.Ja: アイコは人生における小さな変化を楽しむことを決意し、ハルトは自信を持って写真をコンテストに出すことを決めました。En: Aiko resolved to enjoy small changes in life, and Haruto decided with confidence to submit his photos to the contest.Ja: 新宿御苑を後にするアイコの心は、以前よりも軽くなり、ハルトはその日の思い出を胸にカメラを握りしめていました。En: As Aiko left Shinjuku Gyoen, her heart felt lighter than before, and Haruto clutched his camera with the memories of that day in his heart.Ja: 二人は、それぞれの人生において、新しい一歩を踏み出す勇気を得たのです。En: The two of them gained the courage to take new steps in their respective lives.Ja: 秋の夜風が優しく二人を送り出し、彼らは未来に向かって歩き始めました。En: The gentle autumn night breeze bid them farewell, and they began walking toward their futures. Vocabulary Words:amidst: 中にhues: 色合いcontrast: 対照tranquility: 静寂release: 解放contemplating: 考えているwavering: 揺れているsuddenly: 突然hastily: 慌ててapologized: 謝りましたcapture: 撮るilluminated: 照らしたdiminished: 消えたresolved: 決意したbreeze: 風farewell: 別れapproached: 近づいていたcontemplation: 沈思somber: 侘しいdetermined: 決心したperspective: 視点path: 道momentarily: 一時的にdiligence: 勤勉さcontest: コンテストsuccumb: 屈するopportunity: 機会passion: 情熱release: 解放spectacle: 景色

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Serendipity in the Autumn Breezes of Köpenhamn Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2025-09-17-22-34-02-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Det var en krispig höstdag i Köpenhamn.En: It was a crisp autumn day in Köpenhamn.Sv: Klara gick genom den entré där ljusblinkande grindarna öppnade sig mot Tivoli Gardens.En: Klara walked through the entrance where the light-blinking gates opened towards Tivoli Gardens.Sv: Solens strålar lekte med de färgglada löven, och en mjuk melodi fyllde luften.En: The sun's rays played with the colorful leaves, and a soft melody filled the air.Sv: Klara hade rest hit för en helg, sökande efter något spontant och annorlunda.En: Klara had traveled here for a weekend, searching for something spontaneous and different.Sv: Mitt i den glada sorlen från barn och vuxna på parken, fanns en scen.En: In the midst of the joyful murmur from children and adults in the park, there was a stage.Sv: Där spelade Oskar, en lokal musiker på sitt första framträdande där.En: Oskar, a local musician, was playing his first performance there.Sv: Han var ivrig att imponera på publiken och känna energin från applåderna.En: He was eager to impress the audience and feel the energy from the applause.Sv: Medan hans fingrar dansade över gitarrens strängar, letade hans ögon efter vägledning i publikhavet, fastnade dem kort på en ung kvinna med ett varmt leende.En: As his fingers danced over the guitar strings, his eyes sought guidance in the crowd and briefly caught those of a young woman with a warm smile.Sv: Men han återfick snabbt sitt fokus på musiken.En: But he quickly regained his focus on the music.Sv: Klara stod där, svept av ljudet.En: Klara stood there, swept away by the sound.Sv: Hon älskade musik och kände en längtan att prata med den unge musikern.En: She loved music and felt a longing to talk to the young musician.Sv: Men hon var blyg och osäker.En: But she was shy and uncertain.Sv: Vad om han inte skulle vilja prata?En: What if he wouldn't want to talk?Sv: Tanken oroade henne.En: The thought worried her.Sv: I pausen, medan Oskar tog en kort vilopaus vid scenkanten, uppmanade Johan, Klaras vän från Köpenhamn, henne att ta ett steg framåt.En: During the break, while Oskar took a short rest at the edge of the stage, Johan, Klara's friend from Köpenhamn, encouraged her to take a step forward.Sv: "Det är din chans, Klara", sa han med en blinkning.En: "This is your chance, Klara," he said with a wink.Sv: Med en suck av beslutsamhet bestämde sig Klara för att övervinna sin rädsla.En: With a sigh of determination, Klara decided to overcome her fear.Sv: Hon gick fram mot Oskar.En: She walked up to Oskar.Sv: "Hej," sa hon med en mjuk röst.En: "Hi," she said with a soft voice.Sv: "Din musik är underbar.En: "Your music is wonderful.Sv: Är det första gången du spelar här?"En: Is it your first time playing here?"Sv: Oskar, förbryllad över den plötsliga men artiga interaktionen, slappnade av.En: Oskar, baffled by the sudden yet polite interaction, relaxed.Sv: Han log brett och svarade, "Ja, det är det.En: He smiled broadly and responded, "Yes, it is.Sv: Tack så mycket, jag försökte verkligen göra det speciellt."En: Thank you so much, I really tried to make it special."Sv: De började prata om musikens betydelse, om att resa och om rädslan för att misslyckas.En: They began talking about the significance of music, about traveling, and about the fear of failing.Sv: Det fanns en djup förståelse mellan dem, en koppling som var mer än ytliga fraser.En: There was a deep understanding between them, a connection that was more than superficial phrases.Sv: Varje ord flöt naturligt som melodi och harmoni.En: Every word flowed naturally like melody and harmony.Sv: Medan de pratade, började en lätt höstvind röra om blad på marken.En: As they talked, a gentle autumn breeze began to stir leaves on the ground.Sv: De tittade på de dansande löven, och det var som om de såg sin egen början där i den krispiga luften.En: They watched the dancing leaves, and it was as if they saw their own beginning there in the crisp air.Sv: Tillsammans bestämde de sig för att utforska mer av Köpenhamn, hand i hand, med nya äventyr i sikte.En: Together, they decided to explore more of Köpenhamn, hand in hand, with new adventures in sight.Sv: Klart när de skildes, utbytte de nummer.En: When they parted, they exchanged numbers.Sv: Klara kände sig fri och modig.En: Klara felt free and brave.Sv: Oskar förstod nu att den sanna framgången inte alltid mäts i applåder, utan i de äkta mötena.En: Oskar now understood that true success isn't always measured in applause, but in genuine encounters.Sv: Så vandrade de bort från scenen, med löv som virvlade runt deras fötter, och med framtiden lysande framför dem i den gyllene höstsolen.En: So they wandered away from the stage, with leaves swirling around their feet, and with the future shining in front of them in the golden autumn sun. Vocabulary Words:crisp: krispigentrance: entréblinking: ljusblinkandegates: grindarnamurmur: sorlenstage: scenperformance: framträdandeimpress: imponeraapplause: applådernaguidance: vägledningeager: ivriglonging: längtanuncertain: osäkerfear: rädslabaffled: förbrylladsignificance: betydelsesuperficial: ytligamelody: melodiharmony: harmonibreeze: vindstir: röra omdetermination: beslutsamhetencounters: mötenaexchange: utbyttebrave: modigsuccess: framgångenwandered: vandradeswirling: virvladeparted: skildesadventures: äventyr

Join host Frits Bussemacher as he sits down with Ronald van den Hoff—serial entrepreneur, co-founder of Seats2meet, and author of the thought-provoking books "Society 3.0" and "The Serendipity Machine". In this insightful episode, Ronald shares lessons from over 40 years in the hospitality and digital innovation industries. Discover how he pioneered new business models in meeting venues, embraced serendipity as a driver of value, and helped launch more than 125 companies through the Seats2meet ecosystem.Learn how Ronald's vision has remained relevant for over a decade, how he merged technology with human connection, and why openness, adaptability, and collaboration are keys to enduring success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, innovator, or someone passionate about the future of work and networking, this episode is full of practical wisdom and inspiration.

On our geocaching podcast today, we have a great EDC idea and one you may not have thought of before as well as another helpful tool for photographing your geocaching adventures. We also share a listener rant on the topic of Adventure Lab GeoArt, a discussion of serendipity in geocaching, souvenir opportunities and much more. […] The post Show 918.0: Serendipity and Helpful EDC Tools appeared first on PodCacher: Geocaching Goodness.

Success in poker requires taking risks based on incomplete information, reassessing as new information emerges, perseverance in the face of adversity, and a healthy dose of luck. The same is true in scientific research. I will speak to how persistence and serendipity helped define my career and why understanding poker fundamentals can up your scientific game.

In this episode, we sit down with Provost Lena Hill, whose vision and leadership maintain the best of the liberal arts education at Washington and Lee. For Hill, education is not only about mastery of a discipline but also about discovery, openness, and the courage to embrace the unexpected. She reflects on her own journey, from studying Renaissance art in Florence to becoming an internationally recognized scholar of Ralph Ellison, and how those formative experiences shape the way she thinks about curriculum, faculty, and students today. From the evolving role of general education to the transformative impact of study abroad, research, and mentoring, Hill shares how W&L empowers students to unlock their potential and pursue lives of meaning. Whether you're an alum curious about the university's future, a student navigating your own path, or a lifelong learner seeking inspiration, this conversation offers a thoughtful reminder that education is both an opportunity and a gift. 

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Exploring Serendipity: A Journey of Renewal in the Pirineus Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-09-08-22-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: Els matins als Pirineus eren màgics.En: Mornings in the Pirineus were magical.Ca: L'aire fresc convidava a despertar-se aviat i sortir a gaudir del paisatge.En: The fresh air encouraged waking up early and going out to enjoy the landscape.Ca: Martí va decidir unir-se a unes vacances de grup per escapar de l'estrès i sentir la natura ben a prop.En: Martí decided to join a group vacation to escape stress and feel nature up close.Ca: El seu objectiu era trobar pau, aclarir la ment després d'un canvi laboral difícil.En: His goal was to find peace, to clear his mind after a difficult job change.Ca: Gemma, en canvi, buscava inspiració per a la seva escriptura.En: Gemma, on the other hand, was seeking inspiration for her writing.Ca: La seva feina com a escriptora freelance li exigia creativitat, però últimament, les paraules l'evitaven.En: Her job as a freelance writer demanded creativity, but lately, words were eluding her.Ca: Pensava que les històries de la gent del grup podien ajudar-la.En: She thought that the stories of the people in the group could help her.Ca: El primer dia, Martí es resistia a participar a les activitats.En: On the first day, Martí was reluctant to participate in the activities.Ca: Preferia estar sol, caminar pels camins de muntanya, escoltar el silenci.En: He preferred to be alone, walking the mountain paths, listening to the silence.Ca: Però, quan el guia va proposar una excursió en grup per explorar un cim proper, alguna cosa el va fer dir que sí.En: But, when the guide proposed a group hike to explore a nearby peak, something made him say yes.Ca: Durante l'excursió, Gemma es va fixar en Martí.En: During the hike, Gemma noticed Martí.Ca: Ell es mantenia a part, observant les flors i el cel blau.En: He kept to himself, observing the flowers and the blue sky.Ca: La Gemma, sempre sociable, es va apropar a ell amb un somriure.En: Gemma, always sociable, approached him with a smile.Ca: "Has vist el llac des de dalt? És com un mirall!", va dir amb entusiasme.En: "Have you seen the lake from above? It's like a mirror!" she said enthusiastically.Ca: "Encara no hi he arribat, però el camí és bonic," va respondre Martí, sorprès pel somriure radiant de Gemma.En: "I haven't reached it yet, but the path is beautiful," Martí replied, surprised by Gemma's radiant smile.Ca: Quan van arribar a un mirador, el grup es va aturar.En: When they reached a lookout, the group stopped.Ca: La vista era espectacular: muntanyes infinites, prats verds i el llac brillant a la distància.En: The view was spectacular: endless mountains, green meadows, and the shining lake in the distance.Ca: Martí i Gemma es van asseure junts, poc a poc compartint les seves preocupacions i esperances.En: Martí and Gemma sat together, gradually sharing their worries and hopes.Ca: Martí va parlar dels seus dubtes, de com anhelava la calma enmig del caos.En: Martí spoke of his doubts, of how he longed for calm amidst chaos.Ca: Gemma, per la seva banda, va explicar les seves dificultats amb l'escriptura i la seva cerca d'inspiració.En: Gemma, on her part, explained her difficulties with writing and her search for inspiration.Ca: Mentre conversaven, van descobrir un vincle entre ells: la necessitat de trobar-se a un mateix i la motivació per avançar.En: As they talked, they discovered a bond between them: the need to find themselves and the motivation to move forward.Ca: Quan les vacances van arribar al final, Martí i Gemma es van intercanviar els seus contactes.En: When the vacation came to an end, Martí and Gemma exchanged their contacts.Ca: Cap dels dos volia que aquella connexió es perdés.En: Neither of them wanted that connection to be lost.Ca: Abans d'acomiadar-se, Gemma va dir, "La teva història és fascinant.En: Before saying goodbye, Gemma said, "Your story is fascinating.Ca: Potser la pròxima vegada que escrigui, podries ser la meva inspiració."En: Maybe next time I write, you could be my inspiration."Ca: Martí va somriure.En: Martí smiled.Ca: "I tu m'has ensenyat que obrir-me als altres pot ser el començament de noves aventures."En: "And you have taught me that opening up to others can be the beginning of new adventures."Ca: Amb això, es van separar, però amb la promesa de continuar donant-se suport mútuament.En: With that, they parted ways, but with the promise to continue supporting each other.Ca: Els Pirineus els havien ofert molt més que paisatges; els havien unit en un viatge personal compartit.En: The Pirineus had offered them much more than landscapes; they had united them on a shared personal journey. Vocabulary Words:the Pyrenees: els Pirineusthe landscape: el paisatgeto enjoy: gaudirto escape: escaparthe goal: l'objectiuto clear: aclarirthe mind: la mentthe job change: el canvi laboralthe freelance writer: l'escriptor/a freelanceto elude: evitarthe people: la gentto hike: excursionarthe peak: el cimto propose: proposarthe lookout: el miradorthe meadow: el pratthe distance: la distànciathe worry: la preocupacióthe hope: l'esperançato long for: anelarthe chaos: el caosthe bond: el vinclethe adventure: l'aventurato support: donar suportthe path: el camíto observe: observarthe inspiration: la inspiracióthe story: la històriato reach: arribarto share: compartir

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Capturing Cinque Terre: A Tale of Souvenirs and Serendipity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-09-08-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Luca camminava con la sua macchina fotografica appesa al collo, esplorando i colori vivaci delle case sui pendii di Cinque Terre.En: Luca walked with his camera hanging from his neck, exploring the vibrant colors of the houses on the slopes of Cinque Terre.It: Il sole autunnale splendeva dolcemente, e il mare era di un blu intenso.En: The autumn sun shone gently, and the sea was a deep blue.It: Accanto a lui, Bianca controllava la sua lista di spese, tentando di mantenere il budget sotto controllo.En: Next to him, Bianca was checking her shopping list, trying to keep the budget under control.It: Erano in vacanza con un gruppo, ma avevano deciso di prendersi un po' di tempo per loro stessi e fare shopping di souvenir.En: They were on vacation with a group, but they had decided to take some time for themselves and go shopping for souvenirs.It: Il mercato era pieno di turisti.En: The market was full of tourists.It: Le strette stradine erano affollate, piene di bancarelle che vendevano ceramiche dipinte a mano, limoncello, e piccoli quadri delle pittoresche scogliere.En: The narrow streets were crowded, full of stalls selling hand-painted ceramics, limoncello, and small paintings of the picturesque cliffs.It: Luca, sempre all'erta per uno scatto perfetto, sentiva però l'urgenza di trovare un dono speciale per sua sorella.En: Luca, always on the lookout for the perfect shot, felt the urgency to find a special gift for his sister.It: Bianca, d'altra parte, voleva godere del momento e, per una volta, dimenticare il rigido programma.En: Bianca, on the other hand, wanted to enjoy the moment and, for once, forget the strict schedule.It: "Luca, se vogliamo fare qualcosa di diverso, magari separiamoci per un po'," suggerì Bianca.En: "Luca, if we want to do something different, maybe we should separate for a bit," suggested Bianca.It: "Ci vediamo qui tra un'ora?"En: "Shall we meet here in an hour?"It: Luca annuì, il suo spirito avventuroso acceso dall'idea.En: Luca nodded, his adventurous spirit sparked by the idea.It: Iniziò a girovagare, spostandosi verso le stradine meno battute dai turisti.En: He began to wander, moving towards the less traveled streets by tourists.It: Bianca, dopo un attimo di esitazione, decise di lasciar da parte le sue preoccupazioni e seguire un istinto più libero.En: Bianca, after a moment of hesitation, decided to set aside her worries and follow a freer instinct.It: Dopo diversi tentativi, Luca trovò un piccolo negozio nascosto fra due viuzze silenziose.En: After several attempts, Luca found a small store hidden between two quiet alleys.It: Dentro, c'erano oggetti artigianali, piccoli gioielli creati con conchiglie, e mosaici che raccontavano storie del mare e delle montagne circostanti.En: Inside, there were handcrafted items, small jewelry pieces made with shells, and mosaics that told stories of the sea and the surrounding mountains.It: Stava quasi per acquistare un braccialetto di madreperla quando Bianca arrivò con gli occhi brillanti.En: He was almost about to buy a mother-of-pearl bracelet when Bianca arrived with bright eyes.It: "Guarda qui, Luca," disse, indicando una collana con un ciondolo che rappresentava i cinque villaggi in rilievo.En: "Look here, Luca," she said, pointing to a necklace with a pendant representing the five villages in relief.It: "E' perfetto!En: "It's perfect!It: E sembra che non costi troppo."En: And it doesn't seem too expensive."It: Luca sorrise, ammirando la scelta di Bianca.En: Luca smiled, admiring Bianca's choice.It: "Hai ragione, è perfetto," disse, convinto che quel piccolo gioiello raccontasse meglio l'essenza del luogo per sua sorella.En: "You're right, it's perfect," he said, convinced that that small piece of jewelry best captured the essence of the place for his sister.It: Con i loro acquisti in mano, si affrettarono a tornare dal gruppo, ma non senza fermarsi un attimo, guardare l'orizzonte e rendersi conto di aver condiviso qualcosa di speciale.En: With their purchases in hand, they hurried back to the group, but not without stopping for a moment to look at the horizon and realize they had shared something special.It: Luca si sentiva più sicuro delle sue decisioni, mentre Bianca imparava ad allentare le redini del controllo per vivere ogni attimo al massimo.En: Luca felt more confident in his decisions, while Bianca was learning to loosen the reins of control to live each moment to the fullest.It: Il clima mite e il profumo di focaccia che proveniva dalle panetterie li accompagnarono alla fine della loro piccola avventura.En: The mild weather and the scent of focaccia from the bakeries accompanied them to the end of their little adventure.It: Nessun rimpianto, solo ricordi preziosi e un racconto da portare a casa.En: No regrets, only precious memories and a story to bring home. Vocabulary Words:the slope: il pendiovibrant: vivacithe autumn: l'autunnogently: dolcementethe budget: il budgetthe souvenir: il souvenircrowded: affollatithe stall: la bancarellahand-painted: dipinte a manopicturesque: pittoreschethe urgency: l'urgenzathe schedule: il programmato wander: girovagarehesitation: l'esitazionefreer: più liberoattempt: il tentativothe alley: la viuzzahandcrafted: artigianalithe jewel: il gioiellothe shell: la conchigliamother-of-pearl: madreperlathe relief: il rilievoto admire: ammirarethe essence: l'essenzato hurry: affrettarsito realize: rendersi contoconfident: sicuroto loosen: allentarethe reins: le redinithe scent: il profumo

This week, two adventures into the uncharted seas of life. Serendipity 海上的人 by Sharon Wongosari After her lupus diagnosis, Sharon lost what she once held most precious: career opportunities, productivity, and the efficiency that once defined her. Yet in losing them, she discovered a self beyond those qualities and began to reclaim her life. She now credits her friends, family, and her spiritual guide - Mazu, the Taoist ocean goddess she prays to. As red crescent blocks strike the ground, fortune poems are revealed, and prayers are answered. We are all 海上的人 (people on the ocean), drifting through uncharted seas, carried by chaotic waves of serendipity. Produced by: Sharon Wongosari Supervising Producer: Dan Semo Antarctica by Dylin Hardcastle At 17, Dylin faced her first psychotic episode, learning too early that life is both fragile and finite. Then writing became her vessel, carrying her from psych wards to Antarctica, where she witnessed glaciers breaking, whales surfacing, and history dissolving into the sea. Her story is a reminder that even at the edge of endings, the tide always carries us toward more life. Written and performed by Dylin Hardcastle music by Elizabeth Jigalin All The Best Credits Host: Kwame Slusher Executive Producer: Melanie Bakewell Events and Partnership coordinator: Phoebe Adler-Ryan Community Coordinator: Patrick McKenzie Artwork by Annie Hamilton Theme Music composed by Shining Bird Special shout out to our volunteers Ray, Sue, Sharon, Lindsay, Andrew and Ash See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fluent Fiction - Korean: Rainy Day Serendipity: Love Blooms in a Seoul Café Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-09-02-22-34-02-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 서울의 현대적인 교외에 자리 잡은 작은 카페는 언제나 사람들로 가득하다.En: The small café located in the modern suburbs of Seoul is always full of people.Ko: 나무 테이블과 편안한 쿠션 의자가 마련된 이곳은 특히 비 오는 날에 더욱 따뜻하고 포근한 느낌이다.En: With wooden tables and comfortable cushioned chairs, it feels particularly warm and cozy on rainy days.Ko: 창밖에는 오렌지와 붉은색의 가을 낙엽이 빗물에 젖어 반짝이고 있다.En: Outside the window, the autumn leaves in orange and red glisten as they get wet in the rain.Ko: 어느 날 우연히, 갑작스럽게 내린 가을비를 피하려 카페로 뛰어든 지호와 민서가 있었다.En: One day, Jiho and Minseo happened to run into the café to escape an unexpected autumn rain.Ko: 지호는 조용한 성격의 편집자로 고전 문학을 사랑한다.En: Jiho is a quiet editor who loves classic literature.Ko: 그러나 그는 늘 일에 집중한 채 개인적 연결에 목말라 있다.En: However, he is always so focused on work that he yearns for personal connections.Ko: 민서는 생기 넘치는 그래픽 디자이너로 새로운 장소를 탐험하고 새로운 사람들을 만나게 좋아하지만, 마음 속 깊은 곳에서는 안정적인 관계를 갈망하고 있었다.En: Minseo is a lively graphic designer who loves to explore new places and meet new people but deep down, she longs for a stable relationship.Ko: 비를 피해 들어온 이 카페는 두 사람을 닮은 듯 따뜻하고 고전적인 매력이 있었다.En: The café, with its warm and classic charm, seemed to resemble the two of them.Ko: 지호는 민서에게 다가가고 싶었지만, 자신이 모르는 사람에게 먼저 말을 거는 것이 어색했다.En: Jiho wanted to approach Minseo, but it was awkward for him to initiate a conversation with someone he didn't know.Ko: 그러나 그녀가 읽고 있는 책이 자신의 애독서라는 것을 발견하고는 용기를 냈다.En: However, he gathered courage when he discovered that the book she was reading was one of his favorites.Ko: "좋은 책이에요," 지호가 조용히 말을 꺼냈다.En: "That's a good book," Jiho quietly began.Ko: 민서는 놀란 눈으로 그를 바라보았다.En: Minseo looked at him with surprised eyes.Ko: 그녀도 이 책을 좋아했다.En: She also liked the book.Ko: 그렇게 그들은 자연스럽게 대화를 시작했다.En: Naturally, they began a conversation.Ko: 책 이야기는 곧 그들의 일상, 그리고 숨겨진 바람에 대한 이야기가 되었다.En: Talk about the book soon turned into stories about their daily lives and hidden aspirations.Ko: 민서는 모험을 좋아하지만 마음 한켠에 서로를 이해하고 함께할 수 있는 사람을 찾고 싶다는 것을 털어놓았다.En: Minseo confessed that although she loves adventures, she wanted to find someone with whom she could connect and be together.Ko: 그녀의 고백에 지호는 공감하며 자신의 고독을 이야기했다.En: Jiho sympathized with her confession and shared his own loneliness.Ko: 그는 매일의 책임 속에서 외로움을 느끼고 있었다.En: He felt isolated amidst his daily responsibilities.Ko: 빗소리가 잦아들 무렵, 그들은 카페를 떠나기 전 연락처를 주고받았다.En: As the sound of rain diminished, they exchanged contact details before leaving the café.Ko: 지호는 새로운 경험을 위해 마음을 열었고, 민서는 머물며 관계를 쌓는 것의 가치를 알게 되었다.En: Jiho opened his heart to new experiences, and Minseo realized the value of staying and building relationships.Ko: 그들은 다시 만나기로 약속했고, 그 순간 카페 안은 첫 번째 관계의 시작을 은근히 알렸다.En: They promised to meet again, and in that moment, the café subtly announced the beginning of their relationship.Ko: 그날 이후, 비록 카페는 다시 조용해졌지만, 그곳을 한동안 따뜻하게 감싸던 그들의 이야기는 아직도 머문 것 같았다.En: Since that day, even though the café returned to its usual quietness, it felt as if their story still lingered warmly.Ko: 지호와 민서는 가볍지만 기대감 넘치는 휴대전화 알림과 함께 서로를 기억하며 앞으로를 기다리고 있었다.En: Jiho and Minseo remembered each other with light but exciting notifications on their phones, looking forward to what lay ahead. Vocabulary Words:suburbs: 교외cushioned: 쿠션 의자가 마련된glisten: 반짝이다unexpected: 갑작스럽게yearn: 목말라 있다lively: 생기 넘치는explore: 탐험하다stable: 안정적인resemble: 닮다awkward: 어색했다initiate: 말을 거다courage: 용기discover: 발견하다aspirations: 바람confess: 털어놓다sympathized: 공감하다isolated: 외로움을 느끼고 있었다diminished: 잦아들다exchange: 주고받다contact details: 연락처announce: 알리다linger: 머물다notifications: 알림cozy: 포근한autumn leaves: 가을 낙엽editor: 편집자graphic designer: 그래픽 디자이너personal connections: 개인적 연결charms: 매력adventures: 모험

Fluent Fiction - Serbian: Sunset Sketches: When Art and Nature Collide Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sr/episode/2025-09-02-22-34-02-sr Story Transcript:Sr: Сунце је полако залазило изнад Аде Циганлије, а језеро се сјајило лаганим златним тоновима касног лета.En: The sun was slowly setting above Ada Ciganlija, and the lake shimmered with the gentle golden hues of late summer.Sr: На обали, у једном од живописних кафића, седео је Милош.En: On the shore, in one of the picturesque cafes, Miloš was sitting.Sr: Његова скицирка лежала је отворена испред њега, али инспирација му је последњих дана избегавала прсте.En: His sketchbook lay open before him, but inspiration had evaded his fingers in recent days.Sr: Био је графички дизајнер, талентован, али тренутно без креативне варнице.En: He was a graphic designer, talented, but currently without a creative spark.Sr: Неколико столова даље, Јелена је била заокупљена својом камером.En: A few tables away, Jelena was engrossed with her camera.Sr: Била је студенткиња наука о животној средини, и волела је природе и посматрање птица.En: She was a student of environmental science and loved nature and bird watching.Sr: Данашњи задатак био је ухватити последње летње боје и бескрајну разноликост птица које овде находе уточиште.En: Today's task was to capture the last colors of summer and the endless diversity of birds that find refuge here.Sr: Јелена је приметила низак чучањ шпарога, мала жута птичица која се необично мирно одмарала недалеко од Милоша.En: Jelena noticed a low crouching sparrow, a small yellow bird that was unusually calm, resting not far from Miloš.Sr: Покушала је да га ухвати у објективу, али птичица је увек успевала измаћи.En: She tried to capture it through her lens, but the bird always managed to escape.Sr: Милош је, наизглед несвесно, почео да црта малу птицу на скицирци.En: Miloš, seemingly unconsciously, began to draw the little bird in his sketchbook.Sr: Сваки потез оловке био је транквилан и прецизан.En: Each pencil stroke was tranquil and precise.Sr: Јелена, видевши како цртеж оживљава, ипак није могла одолети да не приђе.En: Jelena, seeing how the drawing came to life, couldn't resist approaching.Sr: "Лепо цртате," рекла је тихо, не желећи да га узнемири.En: "You draw beautifully," she said quietly, not wanting to disturb him.Sr: Милош се насмешио и подигао поглед.En: Miloš smiled and looked up.Sr: "Хвала, инспирација је дошла уз малог госта," одговорио је показујући на ситног пернатог пријатеља.En: "Thank you, the inspiration came thanks to our little guest," he replied, pointing to the tiny feathered friend.Sr: "Видим да сте страствени према фотографији.En: "I see you are passionate about photography."Sr: ""Да, волим да ухватим природни свет.En: "Yes, I love capturing the natural world.Sr: Овде је прелепо у ово доба године.En: It's beautiful here this time of year."Sr: ""Слажем се.En: "I agree.Sr: Да, баш ми је требала промена," додао је Милош.En: Yes, I really needed a change," added Miloš.Sr: "Графички сам дизајнер, али сам се ускоро осетио без надахнућа.En: "I'm a graphic designer, but I recently felt uninspired."Sr: "Разговарали су о својим страстима, пословним изазовима и шта их инспирише.En: They talked about their passions, work challenges, and what inspires them.Sr: Открили су да деле љубав према уметности и природи.En: They discovered they shared a love for art and nature.Sr: На крају, разменили су бројеве и договорили се да се поново састану.En: In the end, they exchanged numbers and agreed to meet again.Sr: Милош је осетио нову енергију, док је Јелена била узбуђена што је стекла новог пријатеља.En: Miloš felt a new energy, while Jelena was excited to have made a new friend.Sr: Док је сунце потпуно сјело за хоризонт, на обали Аде остала су два нова пријатеља, испуњена неком врстом задовољства које доноси само случајан сусрет.En: As the sun fully dipped below the horizon, two new friends remained on the shores of Ada, filled with a kind of contentment that only a chance meeting can bring.Sr: Милош је проналазио инспирацију у овим новим емоцијама, а Јелена је осетила обновљену сигурност у себи.En: Miloš found inspiration in these new emotions, and Jelena felt renewed confidence within herself.Sr: Још један дан на Ади Циганлији завршен је са осмехом и обећањем за неке будуће авантуре, баш као што прави живот тек почиње када се дозволи да се догоде непромишљене чаролије.En: Another day at Ada Ciganlija ended with smiles and a promise for future adventures, just as real life begins when one allows for unplanned magic to happen. Vocabulary Words:shimmered: сјајилоhues: тоновимаpicturesque: живописнихevaded: избегавалаspark: варницеengrossed: заокупљенаcapture: ухватитиrefuge: уточиштеcrouching: чучањtranquil: транквиланprecise: прецизанfeathered: пернатогpassionate: страствениconfidence: сигурностcontentment: задовољстваunplanned: непромишљенеadventures: авантураdiversity: разноликостnature: природеinspiration: инспирацијаemotions: емоцијамаlandscape: предеоhorizon: хоризонтchange: променаchallenge: изазовимаexchange: разменилиgraphic: графичкиdesign: дизајнunconsciously: несвесноsketchbook: скицирци

Fluent Fiction - Serbian: Serendipity in the Storm: Lives Intertwined on Kopaonik Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sr/episode/2025-08-30-22-34-02-sr Story Transcript:Sr: Копаоник је био обасјан сунцем тог летњег јутра када су се Милан, Драгана и Ана сусрели први пут.En: Kopaonik was bathed in sunlight that summer morning when Milan, Dragana, and Ana met for the first time.Sr: Милан је дуго тражио мир у планини, желећи самоћу како би направио важну одлуку.En: Milan had long sought peace in the mountains, desiring solitude to make an important decision.Sr: Драгана је дошла у потрази за причом за свој блог, а Ана, власница маленог планинског дома, са осмехом је дочекивала госте, иако у срцу носи бригу око све мањег броја путника.En: Dragana came in search of a story for her blog, and Ana, the owner of a small mountain lodge, greeted guests with a smile, even though she carried a worry in her heart about the decreasing number of travelers.Sr: Међутим, облаци су брзо затамнили небо.En: However, clouds quickly darkened the sky.Sr: Изненада је почео јак пљусак.En: Suddenly, a heavy downpour began.Sr: Сви су пожурили у топлину Аниног дома, где је мирисала слатка арома лековитог биља.En: Everyone hurried into the warmth of Ana's home, which was filled with the sweet aroma of medicinal herbs.Sr: Ватра у камину пуцкала је и стварала угодан амбијент, али страх и неизвесност лебдели су у ваздуху.En: The fire in the fireplace crackled, creating a cozy atmosphere, but fear and uncertainty lingered in the air.Sr: Док су киша и ветар дивљали напољу, унутра је било топло, али напето.En: While rain and wind raged outside, it was warm but tense inside.Sr: Милан је седео у углу, тих и у својим мислима.En: Milan sat in the corner, quiet and lost in his thoughts.Sr: Драгана је нервозно гледала у свој лаптоп, уплашена пропуштањем рока за своју нову причу.En: Dragana nervously looked at her laptop, afraid of missing the deadline for her new story.Sr: Ана је дизала слушалицу, покушавајући да се снађе са залихама које су брзо оскудевале.En: Ana picked up the phone, trying to manage the supplies that were quickly dwindling.Sr: Милан је, ипак, осетио потребу да проговори.En: Milan, however, felt the need to speak.Sr: Обратио се Драгани док је киша свирала своју песму против прозора.En: He addressed Dragana while the rain sang its song against the window.Sr: „Имам одлуку да донесем, али се плашим да останем сам у томе“, признао је.En: "I have a decision to make, but I'm afraid to face it alone," he admitted.Sr: Драгана га је пажљиво слушала; њена радозналост је сада била будна.En: Dragana listened to him carefully; her curiosity now awakened.Sr: „Свака одлука је тежа када је носиш сама“, рекла је она, подстичући га да настави.En: "Every decision is harder when you carry it alone," she said, encouraging him to continue.Sr: Док су разговарали, Ана је предложила нешто несвакидашње.En: As they talked, Ana proposed something unusual.Sr: „Зашто не бисмо направили нешто заједно, сада када смо овде? Можемо организовати вечеру на свеће“, показала је на залихе свећа на столу.En: "Why don't we do something together now that we are here? We can organize a candlelight dinner," she suggested, pointing to a supply of candles on the table.Sr: Као да је читав свет нестао, остало је само њих троје, њихове приче и светлост свећа која је осветљавала њихова лица и срца.En: As if the whole world had disappeared, only the three of them, their stories, and the candlelight illuminating their faces and hearts remained.Sr: Прича о Милану и његовим страховима, Драганиној потрази за смислом и Аниној љубави према својој планини и дому створили су посебан тренутак који је спојио њихове судбине.En: The story of Milan's fears, Dragana's search for meaning, and Ana's love for her mountains and home created a special moment that merged their destinies.Sr: Када је олуја напокон престала, отворили су прозоре.En: When the storm finally stopped, they opened the windows.Sr: Освежени, гледали су у мирну свитање.En: Refreshed, they gazed at the serene dawn.Sr: Милан је осетио спокој и одлучност да прихвати своју одлуку.En: Milan felt calm and determined to embrace his decision.Sr: Драгана је већ била пуна идеја за свој блог – прича о јединственом сусрету у олуји.En: Dragana was already full of ideas for her blog—a story about a unique encounter in a storm.Sr: А Ана је одлучила да свој дом отвори уметницима, као место за инспирацију и стварање.En: And Ana decided to open her home to artists, as a place for inspiration and creation.Sr: Сунце које је изашло иза облака обасјало је не само планину, већ и њихова срца.En: The sun that emerged from behind the clouds illuminated not only the mountains but also their hearts.Sr: Милан је схватио да није сам, Драгана је поново пронашла страст за путовањем, а Ана је добила нову идеју како да представи Копаоник свету.En: Milan realized he was not alone, Dragana rediscovered her passion for traveling, and Ana got a new idea on how to present Kopaonik to the world.Sr: Њихове разлике биле су мост, а не препрека, у том маленом дому који је одолевао природи и спојио њихове животе.En: Their differences were a bridge, not a barrier, in that small home that withstood nature and brought their lives together. Vocabulary Words:solitude: самоћаdecreasing: мањегdownpour: пљусакaroma: аромаmedicinal: лековитогcrackled: пуцкалаuncertainty: неизвесностlinger: лебделиraged: дивљалиdwelling: домdwindling: оскудевалеaddressed: обратио сеadmitted: признаоcuriosity: радозналостencourage: подстичућиunusual: несвакидашњеproposed: предложилаsupplies: залихеinsight: осветљавалаdestinies: судбинеrefreshed: освежениserene: мирнуdetermination: одлучностembrace: прихватиunique: јединственомinspiration: инспирацијуcreation: стварањеemerged: изашлоilluminate: обасјалоpassion: страст

This week, Thomas Spiteri is in conversation with Professor Lydia Patton, philosopher of science and historian of the philosophy of science. Patton traces her unexpected journey from ballet to Kantian philosophy and into the emerging field of HOPOS (history of philosophy of science). She reflects on her years as editor-in-chief of the HOPOS journal, she offers her perspective on the field's future.Along the way, she highlights the distinctive character of HOPOS as a historically grounded approach to philosophical problems, reflects on her editorial leadership of HOPOS (2017-2024), emphasises the importance of widening the scope of the discipline, and considers the promise and limits of new and emerging methods of research. She concludes by discussing some of areas of research that continue to capture her attention.In this episode, Patton:Recounts her unlikely path from ballet to philosophy and HOPOSClarifies what makes HOPOS distinctive as a historical approachReflects on her editorial leadership of HOPOS (2017–2024)Challenges presentist views of the 19th century and its blurred disciplinary boundariesExplores new digital methods in the history of philosophy of scienceShares concerns and hopes about AI and machine learningLooks ahead to the journal's future under Matthew Brown Relevant LinksLydia Patton WebsiteArticle discussed: Serendipity and the Unexpected in the History of Philosophy of Science: Reflections on My Editorship of HOPOS (2017–2024)HOPOS: The Journal of the International Society for the History of Philosophy of ScienceInternational Society for the History of Philosophy of Science (HOPOS)Stuart Russell – Human Compatible: Artificial Intelligence and the Problem of Control Thanks for listening to The HPS Podcast. You can find more about us on our website, Bluesky, Instagram and Facebook feeds. This podcast would not be possible without the support of School of Historical and Philosophical Studies at the University of Melbourne and the Hansen Little Public Humanities Grant scheme. Music by ComaStudio. Website HPS Podcast | hpsunimelb.org

History isn't always something you study from a distance. Sometimes, you find yourself in the middle of it—shaped by the events, people, and unexpected turns that unfold around you. Those moments influence destiny, and over time, they become the foundation for how you see and practice your work.In this conversation with Craig Mitchell, we trace those threads through his unexpected entry into Chinese medicine during the HIV/AIDS crisis, the formative years at ACTCM, and the serendipitous encounters that led him to Taiwan and the translation of the Shang Han Lun. His path weaves together scholarship, clinical practice, and the kinds of opportunities that appear when you're willing to say yes.Listen into this discussion as we explore the realities of practicing during a public health crisis, surprising opportunities that arose when pursuing medicine in Taiwan, the challenges and losses inherent in the process of translation, and why flexibility in clinical thinking is essential for treating real people in the real world.

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Serendipity at the Trevi: Finding Friendship in Roma Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-08-24-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Il sole splendeva su Roma quel Ferragosto.En: The sun shone over Roma that Ferragosto.It: La Fontana di Trevi brillava sotto la luce dorata, e intorno, un turbinio di turisti lanciava monete, sperando nei desideri.En: The Fontana di Trevi glimmered under the golden light, and around it, a whirl of tourists threw coins, wishing for their desires.It: Luca era seduto su una panchina, il suo blocco da disegno saldo tra le mani.En: Luca was seated on a bench, his sketchbook firmly in hand.It: I suoi occhi osservavano attenti il movimento dell'acqua, cercando ispirazione.En: His eyes attentively observed the movement of the water, seeking inspiration.It: Non lontano, Giulia si era presa una breve pausa dal suo lavoro.En: Not far away, Giulia had taken a short break from her work.It: Aveva deciso di visitare la fontana, desiderando un momento di pace.En: She had decided to visit the fountain, longing for a moment of peace.It: Guardò la folla che gettava monete e si chiese quale sarebbe stato il suo desiderio.En: She watched the crowd throwing coins and wondered what her own wish would be.It: Luca sollevò gli occhi dal suo disegno e notò Giulia.En: Luca lifted his eyes from his drawing and noticed Giulia.It: Lei guardava l'acqua con uno sguardo concentrato.En: She was gazing at the water with a focused look.It: Era diversa dagli altri turisti, sembrava in cerca di qualcosa di più profondo.En: She was different from the other tourists, seeming to search for something deeper.It: Luca decise di rompere la sua solitaria routine.En: Luca decided to break his solitary routine.It: "Stai facendo un desiderio?"En: "Are you making a wish?"It: chiese Luca a bassa voce, avvicinandosi cautamente.En: Luca asked softly, approaching cautiously.It: Giulia si girò sorpresa.En: Giulia turned, surprised.It: "Sì, ma non so ancora cosa desiderare," rispose con un sorriso.En: "Yes, but I don't know what to wish for yet," she replied with a smile.It: Luca sorrise, prendendo fiato.En: Luca smiled, taking a breath.It: "Io sono un artista," disse.En: "I'm an artist," he said.It: "Cerco ispirazione qui."En: "I seek inspiration here."It: "È un bel posto per trovarla," rispose Giulia.En: "It's a lovely place to find it," Giulia replied.It: "Sai, anch'io cerco qualcosa.En: "You know, I'm also looking for something.It: Magari un momento speciale, fuori dal lavoro."En: Perhaps a special moment, away from work."It: Luca esitò, ma sentì il bisogno di aprirsi.En: Luca hesitated but felt the need to open up.It: "Io non so sempre cosa disegnare.En: "I don't always know what to draw.It: Pensavo che parlare con qualcuno potesse aiutare."En: I thought that speaking with someone might help."It: Giulia annuì, comprensiva.En: Giulia nodded, understanding.It: "Forse possiamo aiutarci a vicenda.En: "Maybe we can help each other.It: Ti va di ascoltare il mio desiderio?En: Would you like to hear my wish?It: E io ascolterò il tuo."En: And I'll listen to yours."It: Così, i due condividerono i loro sogni.En: And so, the two shared their dreams.It: Luca disegnò mentre Giulia parlava della sua voglia di trovare un amico sincero.En: Luca drew while Giulia spoke of her desire to find a sincere friend.It: La loro conversazione fluiva facilmente.En: Their conversation flowed easily.It: Giulia si sentiva leggera, e Luca trovava nuova ispirazione.En: Giulia felt light, and Luca found new inspiration.It: Dopo un po', Luca mostrò il suo disegno a Giulia.En: After a while, Luca showed his drawing to Giulia.It: Rappresentava la fontana, ma al suo centro c'erano due persone, simbolo del loro incontro.En: It depicted the fountain, but at its center were two people, symbolic of their meeting.It: "Questo è il mio nuovo inizio," disse Luca, con più sicurezza nella voce.En: "This is my new beginning," said Luca, with more confidence in his voice.It: Giulia rise, felice.En: Giulia laughed, happy.It: "E tu sei stata la mia pausa meravigliosa," rispose.En: "And you've been my wonderful break," she replied.It: In quel pomeriggio d'estate, tra le onde della fontana e il frastuono di Roma, Luca e Giulia scoprirono qualcosa di speciale.En: On that summer afternoon, among the waves of the fountain and the clamor of Roma, Luca and Giulia discovered something special.It: Luca imparò a trovare ispirazione non solo nelle cose, ma anche nelle persone.En: Luca learned to find inspiration not only in things but also in people.It: Giulia trovò il contatto umano che cercava.En: Giulia found the human connection she was looking for.It: Si salutarono, con la promessa di ritrovarsi presto, amici oltre la routine.En: They said goodbye, with the promise to meet again soon, friends beyond the routine.It: E così, la Fontana di Trevi conservò un altro segreto tra i suoi desideri esauditi, mentre Roma continuava a respirare e vivere sotto il suo cielo estivo.En: And so, the Fontana di Trevi kept another secret among its granted wishes, while Roma continued to breathe and live under its summer sky. Vocabulary Words:the sun: il soleFerragosto: Ferragostoglimmered: brillavagolden: doratawhirl: turbiniocoins: monetebench: panchinasketchbook: blocco da disegnoattentively: attentimoment: momentopeace: pacefocused: concentratosolitary: solitariaroutine: routinewishes: desideriinspiration: ispirazionedrawing: disegnodesire: desideriosincere: sinceroconversation: conversazionelight: leggeradepicted: rappresentavasymbolic: simboloconfidence: più sicurezzawonderful: meravigliosaafternoon: pomeriggiowaves: ondeclamor: frastuonohuman connection: contatto umanobreathe: respirare

THERE HAS TO BE A BETTER WAY Bringing the Camino experience home. Anyone tried that? It's tricky, right? You spend all this time in the liminal space of the Camino – in this alternative world where strangers are kind, people are good, and making connections is easy and fun. You walk yourself into a stronger, braver version of yourself, and you discover you like that person. You dial into the simplicity of spending your day at the pace of walking, carrying only what you need, and listening to the messages from your body about what it needs and how to care for it. You laugh, you cry, you celebrate, and you grieve. And you do it all with a couple dozen people who have the same purpose as you: to walk day by day and eventually reach Santiago de Compostela, Fisterra, or Muxia. You do all that, and then you have to return home. It's hard, isn't it, to transition from the Camino back to everyday life? We do it, but many of us don't like it. Many of us flounder, struggle, and suffer. There has to be a better way. Now there is! Check it out . . . JOIN THE LA TERRAZA COMMUNITY Take the next step of your pilgrimage here: https://thecaminoexperience.com/laterraza/  Registration is open from noon on August 19, through midnight August 23, 2025, Pacific time zone. Next registration period will be in late October/early November. GET THE FULL CHALLENGE Sign up here to get all the content of the Mining the Lessons of the Camino challenge: https://thecaminoexperience.com/challenge  #youonthecamino #caminodesantiago #firsttimepilgrim #thecaminoexperience #caminopodcast

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Serendipity at Sunset: Capturing Kinderdijk's Timeless Charm Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-08-22-22-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: Op een warme zomerdag in Kinderdijk stonden de windmolens trots tegen de blauwe lucht.En: On a warm summer day in Kinderdijk, the windmills stood proudly against the blue sky.Nl: Het gras was groen en een briesje blies zachtjes over de velden.En: The grass was green and a breeze blew gently over the fields.Nl: Freek, een gepassioneerde fotograaf, liep langs de paden.En: Freek, a passionate photographer, walked along the paths.Nl: Hij zocht naar het perfecte moment, de perfecte hoek om de schoonheid van de molens vast te leggen.En: He searched for the perfect moment, the perfect angle to capture the beauty of the windmills.Nl: Freek's camera hing om zijn nek.En: Freek's camera hung around his neck.Nl: Hij keek naar het licht, wachtend op dat magische moment dat alles samenkwam.En: He looked at the light, waiting for that magical moment when everything came together.Nl: Maar het wilde maar niet gebeuren.En: But it just wouldn't happen.Nl: "De zon is te fel," mompelde hij.En: "The sun is too bright," he muttered.Nl: "De schaduwen zijn te sterk."En: "The shadows are too strong."Nl: Niet ver van Freek stond Marieke.En: Not far from Freek stood Marieke.Nl: Ze had een notitieboekje in haar handen en keek rond.En: She held a notebook in her hands and looked around.Nl: Ze was een reisjournalist en schreef over unieke plekken in Nederland.En: She was a travel journalist writing about unique places in the Netherlands.Nl: Maar de woorden wilden niet komen.En: But the words wouldn't come.Nl: Alles leek al zo vaak verteld.En: Everything seemed to have been told so many times before.Nl: "Wat is nieuw?En: "What is new?Nl: Wat is bijzonder?"En: What is special?"Nl: vroeg ze zichzelf af.En: she asked herself.Nl: Hun blikken kruisten elkaar.En: Their eyes met.Nl: Freek voelde dat Marieke net zo gefrustreerd was als hij.En: Freek could see that Marieke was just as frustrated as he was.Nl: Hij liep naar haar toe.En: He walked over to her.Nl: "Hallo," zei hij.En: "Hello," he said.Nl: "Wat vind jij van de molens?"En: "What do you think of the windmills?"Nl: Marieke glimlachte.En: Marieke smiled.Nl: "Ze zijn betoverend," zei ze.En: "They are enchanting," she said.Nl: "Maar ik vraag me af, hoe vertel ik hun verhaal op een manier die mensen raakt?"En: "But I wonder how I can tell their story in a way that touches people?"Nl: "Misschien kunnen we elkaar helpen," stelde Freek voor.En: "Maybe we can help each other," Freek suggested.Nl: "Ik zoek naar de perfecte foto.En: "I'm looking for the perfect photo.Nl: Jouw perspectief kan me misschien helpen de molens anders te zien."En: Your perspective might help me see the windmills differently."Nl: Ze besloten samen te verkennen.En: They decided to explore together.Nl: Ze liepen langs het water, luisterden naar het zachte geluid van draaiende wieken en voelden de geschiedenis om zich heen.En: They walked along the water, listened to the soft sound of spinning blades, and felt the history around them.Nl: Marieke vertelde over de lokale verhalen die ze had gehoord, over de molenaars en hun leven.En: Marieke shared local stories she had heard, about the millers and their lives.Nl: Toen, vlak voor zonsondergang, vonden ze een heuvel om op te klimmen.En: Then, just before sunset, they found a hill to climb.Nl: Van daaruit konden ze de molens in het gouden licht van de dalende zon zien.En: From there, they could see the windmills in the golden light of the setting sun.Nl: Freek zag de schoonheid in de eenvoud van het landschap en drukte af.En: Freek saw the beauty in the simplicity of the landscape and clicked the shutter.Nl: Klik, klik, klik.En: Click, click, click.Nl: Met elke foto voelde hij een verhaal ontstaan.En: With each photo, he felt a story emerging.Nl: Marieke schreef in haar notitieboekje.En: Marieke wrote in her notebook.Nl: "De magie van reizen," schreef ze, "zit in de gedeelde momenten, in het samen ontdekken van het nieuwe en het oude."En: "The magic of traveling," she wrote, "lies in the shared moments, in discovering the new and the old together."Nl: Tegen de tijd dat de zon onderging, hadden ze beiden gevonden wat ze zochten.En: By the time the sun had set, they had both found what they were looking for.Nl: Freek had foto's die de kern van de Nederlandse schoonheid vingen, en Marieke had een verhaal over verbinding en ervaring.En: Freek had photos that captured the essence of Dutch beauty, and Marieke had a story about connection and experience.Nl: Freek leerde door Marieke om zijn onderwerpen niet alleen door een lens te zien, maar met zijn hart.En: Freek learned from Marieke to see his subjects not just through a lens, but with his heart.Nl: Marieke ontdekte dat authentieke verhalen ontstaan uit onverwachte ontmoetingen en echte verbondenheid.En: Marieke discovered that authentic stories arise from unexpected encounters and genuine connection.Nl: Terwijl de nacht viel, glinsterden de sterren boven Kinderdijk.En: As night fell, the stars twinkled above Kinderdijk.Nl: Freek en Marieke wisten dat hun reizen hen naar het perfecte verhaal en de perfecte foto hadden geleid.En: Freek and Marieke knew that their journeys had led them to the perfect story and the perfect photo.Nl: Ze keken elkaar aan en glimlachten, tevreden en geïnspireerd.En: They looked at each other and smiled, content and inspired.Nl: Hun samenwerking was de sleutel naar succes geweest.En: Their collaboration had been the key to success. Vocabulary Words:breeze: briesjepassionate: gepassioneerdeangle: hoekcapture: vast te leggenshadows: schaduwenmuttered: mompeldejournalist: journalistunique: uniekefrustrated: gefrustreerdenchanted: betoverendperspective: perspectiefexplore: verkennenblades: wiekenhistory: geschiedenissunset: zonsondergangsimplicity: eenvoudshutter: drukte afemerging: ontstaanauthentic: authentiekeencounters: ontmoetingenconnection: verbondenheidtwinkled: glinsterdencollaboration: samenwerkingcontent: tevredeninspired: geïnspireerdsuccess: succesnotebook: notitieboekjegenuine: echteessence: kernexperience: ervaring

Dani Campbell is the creator of Stumbling Upon Serendipity, a travel and lifestyle blog built around solo adventures, road trips, and the freedom of exploring new places. Through her platform, she shares stories, guides, and insights that inspire others to embrace spontaneity and live more intentionally.   Her work focuses on solo female travel, hiking, and the balance between adventure and wellness. With an approachable style, Dani connects with readers and listeners who are looking for both practical tips and encouragement to step outside their comfort zones.   Based in Florida, Dani continues to grow Stumbling Upon Serendipity as a space where authentic experiences meet mindful living. Whether on the road or reflecting at home, she encourages others to find their own version of serendipity in everyday life.  

Kerry and Collin didn't plan on 2025 being a John Cusack-a-thon, but that's what ended up happening. After talking about "Serendipity" back in February and with "The Ice Harvest" coming up in December, the hosts decided to do a Cusack double-header of Christmas-adjacent films that came out 40 years ago. "The Sure Thing" was Cusack's first starring role in the teenage take on "It Happened One Night" while "Better Off Dead" took on a much weirder tone and ended up being a cult favorite, much to Cusack's chagrin. How does our sense of humor change as we get older? Which of the two films do the hosts respond to more? What is the third film co-starring John Cusack from this same year? Tune in to find out (or just IMDb him for that third question. Or look at the show notes below?). Plus, Kerry gives three more films from "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die," one of which might tie into one of these Cusack films.  Book films covered: "It Happened One Night" (1936) "Ran" (1985) "The Sting" (1973)

By lightening up your communication, you can build serious connections.Humor in communication isn't all fun and games. According to Alison Wood Brooks and Naomi Bagdonas, levity is one of the most serious tools we have in building successful connections.Wood Brooks and Bagdonas, both teachers, authors, and experts in the field of communication, recognize how crucial levity is to our professional and personal interactions. “It's easy to think of [humor] as this extra bonus thing,” says Wood Brooks. “What we find is it's incredibly core to how people are relating to each other.” Bagdonas agrees: “When there's the presence of laughter in team meetings, those teams are more successful and more creative. Leaders with a sense of humor—not even a good sense of humor—are seen as more motivating, more admired, [and] their teams report being more engaged.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wood Brooks and Bagdonas join host Matt Abrahams to explore levity as a mindset, or as Bagdonas puts it, “Navigating life on the precipice of a smile.” Together, they share how lightness and humor can break barriers, bridge connections, and unlock the door to better communication.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Alison Wood Brooks Alison's Book: TalkNaomi Bagdonas Naomi's Book: Humor, SeriouslyEp.13 Make 'Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your CommunicationEp.73 Listen Up: Why It's Better to Be Interested Than InterestingEp.89 Listen, Listen, Listen: How to Build Deep ConnectionsEp.169 Don't Be a ZQ: Make Your Conversations Count   Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:13) - Talk Tour Insights (04:33) - Top Advice on Asking Questions (06:43) - Guiding Principles for Leaders (09:17) - Importance of Levity (11:17) - Why Humor Matters (13:06) - Letting Go of Comfort (16:24) - Overthinking Levity (18:30) - Creating Space for Levity (22:02) - Conclusion  *****This Episode is sponsored by Stanford. Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford ReportSupport Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.        

Subscribe to Chris Arnade's Substack - https://walkingtheworld.substack.com/Who is Chris Arnade!He started as a physicist, earning a PHD from Johns Hopkins and then took to Wall St spending two decades on an elite trading desk at CitiGroup before disillusioning his well dressed allies to engage in the photography, walking and writing of the great and forgotten cities of this world. He is a best selling author, but as well… a best subscribed substacker!'Chris Arnade Walks The World' is the publications name…And in it, Chris lives up to the title. Japan, Europe, China, Australia, The Faroe Islands, Canada, the expansive US of A, Turkey, Korea, Indonesia even Uzbekistan (which gets a special mention in this podcast). Cities within all of these great nations and many more, Chris has trod and documented. His format is slow and empathetic. Chris will embark on several 20-30km journeys at his location, take photos and then report on his walk. I can't remember how long I've been subscribed, although it feels like years, but the other day I woke up to an email which detailed Chris's initial impressions of Sydney! I replied to the email right away, and just a few hours later was guiding him along the Malabar to Bondi trail. Steve and I - guiding Chris from the area I grew up to the most iconic beach in Australia. That was a special serendipity which came out of no-where and furthermore, led to this podcast today...00:00 Introduction to Chris Arnade — physicist, Wall Street trader, turned global walker/writer.02:00 First impressions of Sydney — “child of LA and London,” with beaches, pubs, suburbs, and good living.Sydney Observations03:40 Sydney's trains: efficient, sprawling, but designed to avoid beaches.06:00 Sydney friendliness vs. UK cynicism — “Australians are like puppy dogs, eager to please.”09:30 Suburbs as “democratized manors,” good life for the average person, housing affordability issues.13:00 Housing supply constraints, coastline beauty, and why Sydney isn't as bad as people think.Walking & Method16:30 From physics & Wall Street to walking: walks as stress relief, learning, meditation.20:30 Spreadsheet brain → toy models → refining worldview through walking.22:30 Cities that defied expectations: Tashkent & Jakarta.Global Perspectives25:30 Africa's challenges: Nigeria & Dakar as examples of dysfunction despite resources.29:00 Australia's weak ties with Indonesia, lack of Indonesians in Sydney, food culture, overlapping economic models.33:30 Chinese-Indonesian business dominance — parallels to Jews, Lebanese, minorities elsewhere.36:00 High-trust vs. low-trust societies: Japan as the archetype.Culture & Writing41:30 Why he avoids fame, prefers anonymity, but respects subscribers deeply.44:00 Pressure to deliver as a Substack writer — treating it like a job.47:00 Writing inspiration, uninspired cities (Bangkok), and the challenges of always producing.53:00 Strong opinions drive trafficDignity & Underclass55:00 “Dignity” project in the US — underclass and addiction.Personal Life56:20 Family and frugality58:50 Why he doesn't read other travel writersPhilosophy & Serendipity01:04:50 Serendipity? “I don't believe in coincidence.” 01:07:00  Country he's most bullish on01:09:00 Next destinations

In today's episode of Slovakia Today, our colleague Gigi Ann Green takes us inside "Za Hranice s Hudbou" (Beyond Borders with Music), a summer workshop bringing together young musicians to explore jazz and contemporary genres. From harmony and vocal courses to late-night jam sessions, she also talks with co-founders Ester Wiesnerová and Lenka Molčányiová about music education in Slovakia, the challenges artists face, and their vision for inspiring a new generation of Slovak talent. We'll also mark Serendipity Day — Aug 18th — by celebrating life's unexpected joys with music, and bring you the latest Slovak Sound Check, where we broaden our Slovak vocabulary with Lubna.

Click here to join the Everyday Positivity Hangout this Sunday Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fluent Fiction - French: Under the Dome: Stars, Stories, and Serendipity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/fr/episode/2025-08-17-22-34-02-fr Story Transcript:Fr: Sous le grand dôme du Palais de la Découverte, où la lumière estivale danse à travers les fenêtres hautes, Julien errait entre les expositions.En: Under the grand dome of the Palais de la Découverte, where the summer light danced through the tall windows, Julien wandered among the exhibits.Fr: Un écrivain dans l'âme, il était en quête d'inspiration.En: A writer at heart, he was in search of inspiration.Fr: Les étoiles et les mystères de l'univers l'avaient toujours fasciné, mais il recherchait une étincelle nouvelle, quelque chose de plus personnel pour son prochain projet.En: Stars and the mysteries of the universe had always fascinated him, but he was looking for a new spark, something more personal for his next project.Fr: Marie, une étudiante en physique avide de connaissances, se tenait devant une maquette du système solaire.En: Marie, a physics student eager for knowledge, stood in front of a model of the solar system.Fr: Son esprit était occupé par des équations complexes, mais elle espérait aussi rencontrer d'autres passionnés d'astronomie.En: Her mind was occupied by complex equations, but she also hoped to meet other astronomy enthusiasts.Fr: Sa curiosité était insatiable, comme un ciel nocturne sans fin.En: Her curiosity was insatiable, like an endless night sky.Fr: Alors que Julien s'approchait de la maquette, il remarqua Marie, absorbée et contemplative.En: As Julien approached the model, he noticed Marie, absorbed and contemplative.Fr: Il hésita un instant, le souvenir de rejets passés le freinant.En: He hesitated for a moment, memories of past rejections holding him back.Fr: Pourtant, quelque chose dans l'atmosphère légère du lieu le poussa à surmonter sa réticence.En: However, something in the light atmosphere of the place pushed him to overcome his reluctance.Fr: "Vous trouvez ça fascinant aussi, cet univers infini ?"En: "Do you also find this infinite universe fascinating?"Fr: demanda-t-il doucement, se plaçant à ses côtés.En: he asked softly, standing beside her.Fr: Marie tourna son regard lumineux vers lui et sourit.En: Marie turned her bright gaze towards him and smiled.Fr: "Oui, chaque étoile raconte une histoire.En: "Yes, each star tells a story.Fr: Vous êtes aussi passionné d'astronomie ?"En: Are you also passionate about astronomy?"Fr: Ils commencèrent à échanger des idées, perdus dans une conversation animée qui ne semblait jamais manquer de sujets.En: They began exchanging ideas, lost in a lively conversation that seemed never to run out of topics.Fr: Découvrant une passion partagée pour l'idée des mondes parallèles, ils étaient captivés l'un par l'autre.En: Discovering a shared passion for the idea of parallel worlds, they were captivated by each other.Fr: Les expositions autour semblaient s'estomper alors qu'ils discutaient des mystères de l'univers.En: The exhibits around them seemed to fade away as they discussed the mysteries of the universe.Fr: Malgré ses réserves, Julien se sentit peu à peu à l'aise.En: Despite his reservations, Julien gradually felt at ease.Fr: La vitalité de Marie et son enthousiasme l'envoyaient vers de nouvelles pensées.En: Marie's vitality and enthusiasm steered him towards new thoughts.Fr: Il réalisa que cette rencontre fortuite pouvait devenir ce qu'il cherchait : un nouveau point de départ.En: He realized that this chance encounter could become what he was looking for: a new starting point.Fr: "J'aime la manière dont vous voyez le monde," avoua-t-il, surpris par sa propre ouverture.En: "I love how you see the world," he admitted, surprised by his own openness.Fr: Marie, touchée, mit de côté ses préoccupations académiques pour mieux apprécier le moment présent.En: Touched, Marie set aside her academic concerns to better appreciate the present moment.Fr: "Ça me fait plaisir de rencontrer quelqu'un qui partage cette passion.En: "It pleases me to meet someone who shares this passion.Fr: Parfois, je me perds dans mes études.En: Sometimes, I get lost in my studies.Fr: C'est bien de trouver équilibre."En: It's good to find balance."Fr: À la fin de leur visite, alors que le soleil d'été commençait à découcher, ils échangèrent leurs coordonnées.En: At the end of their visit, as the summer sun began to set, they exchanged their contact information.Fr: C'était le début d'une connexion qui promettait plus que des discussions sur les étoiles et les mondes distants.En: It was the start of a connection that promised more than just discussions about stars and distant worlds.Fr: En sortant du Palais, Julien se sentit revigoré, prêt à incorporer ces nouvelles expériences dans ses écrits.En: Leaving the museum, Julien felt invigorated, ready to incorporate these new experiences into his writing.Fr: Marie souriait, satisfaite d'avoir choisi de prendre un peu de temps pour elle-même, au-delà du stress des études.En: Marie smiled, satisfied that she had chosen to take a little time for herself, beyond the stress of studies.Fr: Ils quittèrent le musée avec un sentiment de possibilité.En: They left the museum with a sense of possibility.Fr: La rencontre d'une âme sœur terrestre sous le ciel étoilé, pensaient-ils, était peut-être encore plus magique que les galaxies lointaines explorées cet après-midi-là.En: Meeting a kindred soul beneath the starry sky, they thought, was perhaps even more magical than the distant galaxies explored that afternoon. Vocabulary Words:the dome: le dômethe exhibit: l'expositiona writer: un écrivainthe spark: l'étincellethe project: le projetthe student: l'étudiantethe knowledge: les connaissancesinsatiable: insatiablethe encounter: la rencontrethe rejection: le rejetreluctance: la réticenceto overcome: surmonterfascinating: fascinantthe gaze: le regardto exchange: échangerlively: animéthe parallel worlds: les mondes parallèlescaptivated: captivéthe mystery: le mystèrethe vitality: la vitalitéenthusiasm: l'enthousiasmeto steer: envoyerchance: fortuiteto admit: avouerthe balance: l'équilibreacademic concern: les préoccupations académiquessatisfied: satisfaiteto invigorate: revigorerto incorporate: incorporerthe possibility: la possibilité

Today's guest is Kathy Sierra. Kathy Sierra is a computer scientist, author, and horse-movement innovator who bridges neuroscience, learning psychology, and equine training. Co-creator of the award-winning Head First programming series and founder of the JavaRanch community, she later turned her expertise in intrinsic motivation toward her lifelong passion for horses. Through her Panther Flow approach, Kathy helps horses and riders unlock confident, curious, and expressive movement, sharing her work worldwide through courses, workshops, and writing. In training and movement, drilling “perfect form” is standard practice. The more we get into how humans learn, the more we realize that “perfect form” is a myth, and learning is a far more complex venture. Using both differential learning (variety) and constraints helps athletes hone in on their own optimal (and robust) technique, without needing to constantly be looking for one “perfect” way to do things. This is not only true in animals, but also in humans and in machine learning. On this week's episode, Kathy covers aspects of training horses using the same motor learning concepts that work best in humans. She also goes into how and why robots learn to move better based on constraints, trial and error, versus a “perfect technique” type of programming. This is a fascinating and wide-ranging discussion on human movement, learning, and sport skill. Today's episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:06 – Introduction to Horse Training Insights 11:16 – Discovering the Community of Movement 21:40 – The Power of Natural Movement 32:19 – Emotions in Movement and Skill Acquisition 41:22 – The Impact of Coaching on Authenticity 53:51 – Techniques for Encouraging Movement Exploration 1:00:23 – The Power of Pattern Interrupts 1:11:34 – The Role of Exploration in Coaching 1:15:18 – Adapting Like Animals 1:22:42 – Embracing Novelty for Movement 1:29:25 – The Myth of Optimality 1:35:18 – Serendipity in Learning Key Takeaways Introduction to Horse Training Insights – [0:06] Kathy shares how working with horses revealed universal truths about movement and behavior, clear communication, patience, and trust underpin both animal and human learning. What to try: Start with establishing safety and trust before layering complexity. Use observation as your first tool, notice subtle shifts in posture or energy. Match your cues to the learner's readiness, not your agenda. Discovering the Community of Movement – [11:16] She describes how connecting with other movement-minded people broadened her perspective and expanded her toolkit. What to try: Seek out cross-disciplinary conversations, dancers, martial artists, animal trainers. Share drills and games openly; let others adapt them for their setting. Use community feedback as a way to refine your own approach. The Power of Natural Movement – [21:40] Kathy emphasizes that natural, unforced movement often produces the most authentic and sustainable skill. What to try: Design environments that invite natural movement patterns to emerge. Remove overbearing cues, let the body self-organize. Watch for efficiency and ease, not just output. Emotions in Movement and Skill Acquisition – [32:19] She links emotional state to physical learning, noting that fear or tension can block skill development. What to try: Pair challenging tasks with positive emotional experiences. Recognize emotional cues, frustration, joy, hesitation, and adjust tasks accordingly. Celebrate small wins to keep confidence high. The Impact of Coaching on Authenticity – [41:22] Kathy warns that over-coaching can erode authenticity in movement. What to try: Avoid shaping every rep, allow athletes to bring their own style. Use fewer,

Ever had a random compliment from a stranger live in your head all week? Same. This episode dives into the power of a stranger—how micro-connections boost confidence, calm anxiety, and add a little magic. I share the moment that flipped my mood, no-cringe scripts to start a convo, how to give a great compliment, and when to set boundaries. Is who you meet really a coincidence…or something you called in? We have a quick chat about my unexpected Nashville night before a Vegas weekend. If you love Dear Bianca, please follow, rate & review the podcast—it seriously helps the show grow. And check my Instagram @dearbiancapodcast for a Dear Bianca giveaway (submissions close August 15 at 11:59 PM ET). Go make a stranger smile today.

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: From Planner to Adventurer: Rediscovering Joy on the Road Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-08-13-22-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: In het hart van de rustige gemeenschap van Blaricum, maakt Jeroen zich klaar voor een zomers avontuur.En: In the heart of the quiet community of Blaricum, Jeroen is getting ready for a summer adventure.Nl: De luwe straten, omringd door hoge bomen en nette huizen, bieden een serene ontsnapping uit het drukke leven in Amsterdam.En: The sheltered streets, surrounded by tall trees and neat houses, offer a serene escape from the bustling life in Amsterdam.Nl: Maar vandaag is anders.En: But today is different.Nl: Jeroen voelt de drang om de dagelijkse sleur te ontvluchten en iets nieuws te ervaren.En: Jeroen feels the urge to escape the daily grind and experience something new.Nl: Zijn vrienden, Maartje en Lucas, zijn al net zo enthousiast.En: His friends, Maartje and Lucas, are just as excited.Nl: Ze hebben afgesproken om naar de Nederlandse kust te gaan.En: They have planned to go to the Dutch coast.Nl: De zon schijnt en een frisse zeebries lokt hen naar het westen.En: The sun is shining and a fresh sea breeze lures them to the west.Nl: Jeroen, de eeuwige planner, heeft de route en stopplaatsen tot in de kleinste details uitgestippeld.En: Jeroen, the eternal planner, has mapped out the routes and stops in the finest detail.Nl: Maar diep vanbinnen verlangt hij naar wat meer avontuur.En: But deep down, he longs for a bit more adventure.Nl: Het is een perfect zomerochtend wanneer ze vertrekken.En: It is a perfect summer morning when they set off.Nl: "Laten we plezier maken!"En: "Let's have fun!"Nl: roept Maartje terwijl ze hun tassen in de auto laadt.En: Maartje shouts as she loads their bags into the car.Nl: Lucas klapt in zijn handen en ze zijn weg.En: Lucas claps his hands and they are off.Nl: De wegen zijn drukker dan verwacht.En: The roads are busier than expected.Nl: Files houden hen tegen.En: Traffic jams hold them back.Nl: Jeroen begint zich zorgen te maken.En: Jeroen starts to worry.Nl: Hij grijpt naar zijn planner en probeert nieuwe routes uit te stippelen.En: He reaches for his planner and tries to map out new routes.Nl: Maar niets lijkt te werken zoals gepland.En: But nothing seems to work as planned.Nl: "Misschien moeten we het anders aanpakken?"En: "Maybe we should approach it differently?"Nl: stelt Lucas zachtjes voor.En: suggests Lucas softly.Nl: Maar Jeroen schudt zijn hoofd.En: But Jeroen shakes his head.Nl: Hij houdt niet van onverwachte veranderingen.En: He does not like unexpected changes.Nl: Wanneer ze eindelijk dichterbij de kust komen, gebeurt er iets onverwachts.En: When they finally get closer to the coast, something unexpected happens.Nl: De auto begint te stotteren en stopt ten midden van een stille landweg.En: The car begins to sputter and stops in the middle of a quiet country road.Nl: Jeroen gooit zijn handen in de lucht, gefrustreerd door het misgelopen schema.En: Jeroen throws his hands in the air, frustrated by the derailed schedule.Nl: Dit was niet hoe hij zich hun avontuur had voorgesteld.En: This wasn't how he had imagined their adventure.Nl: Maar dan begint Maartje te lachen.En: But then Maartje starts laughing.Nl: "Dit is toch best spannend, of niet?"En: "This is pretty exciting, isn't it?"Nl: zegt ze.En: she says.Nl: Haar lach werkt aanstekelijk en zelfs Jeroen merkt dat hij zenuwachtig glimlacht.En: Her laugh is contagious, and even Jeroen finds himself nervously smiling.Nl: Lucas knikt.En: Lucas nods.Nl: "Laten we eruit stappen en wandelen.En: "Let's get out and walk.Nl: Misschien vinden we iets bijzonders."En: Maybe we'll find something special."Nl: Jeroen aarzelt even, maar volgt dan zijn vrienden het pad op.En: Jeroen hesitates for a moment, but then follows his friends up the path.Nl: De groene velden, het warme zonlicht en de vredige stilte kalmeren zijn zenuwen.En: The green fields, the warm sunlight, and the peaceful silence calm his nerves.Nl: Ze ontdekken een afgelegen strand.En: They discover a secluded beach.Nl: Het zand voelt heerlijk onder hun voeten.En: The sand feels marvelous under their feet.Nl: Ze plonsen in het water, hun zorgen uitstralend in de golven.En: They splash into the water, their worries dissipating in the waves.Nl: In dat moment realiseert Jeroen zich iets belangrijks.En: In that moment, Jeroen realizes something important.Nl: De mooiste ervaringen zitten vaak in het onverwachte.En: The most beautiful experiences are often found in the unexpected.Nl: Het avontuur dat hij zocht, vond hij juist in de kleine, ongeplande momenten.En: The adventure he was seeking, he found precisely in the small, unplanned moments.Nl: Ze keren terug naar de auto, opgeladen en voldaan.En: They return to the car, recharged and satisfied.Nl: Jeroen voelt zich bevrijd.En: Jeroen feels liberated.Nl: Hij heeft een balans gevonden tussen plannen en improviseren, en zijn hart voelt lichter dan ooit tevoren.En: He has found a balance between planning and improvising, and his heart feels lighter than ever before.Nl: Terwijl de zon ondergaat, rijden ze verder, zonder haast, maar met nieuwe verhalen en herinneringen die ze voor altijd met zich mee zullen dragen.En: As the sun sets, they drive on, unhurried, but with new stories and memories that they will carry with them forever. Vocabulary Words:serene: serenelures: loktplanner: plannergains: verlangtapproach: aanpakkensputter: stotterenfrustrated: gefrustreerdderailed: misgelopencontagious: aanstekelijkhesitates: aarzeltsecluded: afgelegenmarvelous: heerlijkdissipating: uitstralendliberated: bevrijdunhurried: zonder haastmemories: herinneringeneternal: eeuwigemapped: uitgestippelddetails: detailsdeparture: vertrekkenunexpected: onverwachteapproach: aanpakkensputters: stottertcontagious: aanstekelijknervously: zenuwachtigcalm: kalmerenexperiences: ervaringenprecisely: juistsatisfied: voldaanimprovising: improviseren

Subscribe to Nicholas Gruen's Substack - https://nicholasgruen.substack.com/I joined the Australian economist Nicholas Gruen recently in his Melbourne home to host his first 'long-form' podcast (although I'm not sure at what hour it goes from short to long)At the core of Gruen's worldview is the “un-seriousness” he levels at Australian politics, the media landscape, institutions and in a word... bureaucracies.From his creation of the HALE Index to his decades inside Australia's public institutions, Nicholas continuously challenges orthodox thinking.The podcast covers the (in my opinion) radical yet (Nicholas's opinion) ancient idea of citizens' juries as a second pillar of representation, the reasons bold policy rarely survives bureaucratic reality, and how lessons from the Toyota production system could help governments actually listen to people at the bottom of the hierarchy.Along the way, Gruen takes us from Australia's superannuation system to pokies, from the mental health crisis to the subtle erosion of public-spiritedness inside organisations. To be specific, these are all the topics covered in this chat.The HALE Index of Well-being – Why GDP misses the mark, how HALE works, and what it reveals about Australia's progress.Measuring What Matters – The limits of subjective well-being metrics, correlations between indicators, and why faux indexes mislead policymakers.Indigenous Policy Contradictions – The tension between material “gap closing” and self-determination, and why policy rarely confronts it.Citizens' Juries & Political Reform – Introducing random selection into governance and how it could act as a check on elected officials.Goodhart's Law in Action – How turning measures into targets corrupts them, and the problem of gaming metrics in education and beyond.Internal vs External Goods – Alasdair MacIntyre's framework and its relevance to public service, corporate culture, and motivation.Institutional Stagnation – Why promising initiatives stall, and how bottom-up programs could scale without being crushed by bureaucracy.Toyota Production System Lessons – Building respect for frontline workers into systems and how it transforms performance.Australia's Superannuation System – Strengths, inefficiencies, unfair taxation, and misaligned regulation of self-managed super funds.Compulsory Voting & Preferential Systems – How they shape Australia's political centre and guard against extreme populism.Universities Today – The shift from idea-driven discourse to metric-chasing careerism, especially in economics.Trade-offs vs Synergies – Why economics often overemphasises trade-offs, and examples of where quality and cost improve together.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Nicholas Gruen05:41 The Limitations of GDP as a Measure11:08 Inequality and Its Impact on Well-being16:45 The Role of Metrics in Policy Making22:10 The Importance of Community Engagement41:48 Connecting Education to the Real World47:24 Learning from Toyota's Success56:52 The Flaws in Superannuation System01:02:55 Reforming Auditing Practices01:11:39 The Shift in University Education01:20:59 Divergent Perspectives in Economics01:32:49 Rethinking Representation in Democracy01:48:25 The Role of Elite Consensus in Political Change02:07:58 Understanding Domestic Violence in Indigenous Communities02:21:55 The Role of New Media in Political Discourse02:26:38 The Impact of Gambling on Australian Society02:36:08 The Nature of Optimism and Serendipity in Life

All about the extraordinary thing that happened this week regarding NEVER THE ROSES - and about serendipity, bolts of lightning, what you can and can't plan for, and why I love working with smart women who also talk about skin care routines.You can get signed bookplates from me here! https://www.jeffekennedy.com/store (scroll to the bottom)You can preorder MAGIC REBORN at https://www.jeffekennedy.com/magic-rebornBuy LoveLitCon tickets here https://lovelit.com/ Be sure to use my author-specific code for a $10 discount! LOVE8368 STRANGE FAMILIAR is live! https://www.jeffekennedy.com/strange-familiar  The posture-correcting sports bra I love almost more than life itself is here https://forme.therave.co/37FY6Z5MTJAUKQGAJoin my Patreon and Discord for mentoring, coaching, and conversation with me! Find it at https://www.patreon.com/JeffesClosetYou can always buy print copies of my books from my local indie, Beastly Books! https://www.beastlybooks.com/If you want to support me and the podcast, click on the little heart or follow this link (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/jeffekennedy).Sign up for my newsletter here! (https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/r2y4b9)You can watch this podcast on video via YouTube https://youtu.be/9gR2oG_eTEkSupport the showContact Jeffe!Find me on Threads Visit my website https://jeffekennedy.comFollow me on Amazon or BookBubSign up for my Newsletter!Find me on Instagram and TikTok!Thanks for listening!

Earnest ‘EJ' Christian discusses his annual end of summer mini family vacation at Disney, his serendipitous encounter while on the trip, ESPN media deals with both the NFL and WWE, the possible end of the Howard Stern Show, NFL Hall Of Famer Marv Levy turns 100, Luka Doncic contract extension with the Lakers, and EJ's Top 5: Favorite Disney Rides.

Continuing their topic from last week, the Eyres talk about shifting from the pursuit of Control to the pursuit of Serendipity, shifting from the pursuit of Ownership to the pursuit of Stewardship, and shifting from the pursuit of Independence to the pursuit of Synergicity. For Richard and Linda, this is the core of How to Live the Second Half of Life. More at https://valuesparenting.com/how-to-live/

Dear Article Clubbers,We had a great discussion last Sunday. Thank you to everyone who made it so!It's almost August, which means two things:* It's my birthday soon* I get to announce our article of the monthI cannot adequately express how honored I am to share with you August's article of the month. We are going to be reading and discussing “They Burn Books to Burn Us Too,” by Saint Trey W.Published in April in Notes From The Undrowned, the essay explores how regimes, most notably the United States government, have banned books in an attempt to dominate Black bodies and to erase Black memory. The goal, Saint Trey writes, is “not only control, but the elimination of imagination.”But no matter the government's violence, Black people will not be silenced. They will not be unwritten. Saint Trey writes:What they do not know is that we were never written in the first place. We were sung. We were carved into tree trunks and kitchen counters and braided into our mother's hair. We are older than their archives. And our stories do not end with silence.They begin in fire.My hope is that you will consider reading Saint Trey's essay. I also hope that you will make space to reflect on his words. If you are moved — as I predict many of you will be — I encourage you to join our discussion so that we can all connect and have a conversation in community.➡️ Inside today's issue, you'll find:* My conversation with Sarai Bordeaux, Poet Laureate of Eureka and Article Club correspondent, on what she appreciated about the essay and how it felt to interview the author* A few more excerpts from the article, plus my handwritten annotations* A short biography of the author* More information about our discussion on August 24, plus an inviteOne more thing: My gut says, if you're a high school teacher (e.g., Ethnic Studies, World History, U.S. History), your students would appreciate reading this piece.They Burn Books to Burn Us TooI could quote the entire essay because Saint Trey's writing is so beautiful. But here are a few excerpts that I'm still thinking about.On reading The Bluest Eye for the first time:I remember reading that first chapter and feeling the air change — like God had walked into the room, barefoot and breathless. I didn't know then that some people wanted to bury what I had just touched. I didn't know that entire states would one day strike Morrison from the classroom like a curse. I didn't know that the truth could be illegal.On the government's campaign to ban books:They said they wanted to protect the children. But it was only certain children they meant. Not mine. Not me. Not the children who walk into classrooms carrying the weight of a lineage they're not allowed to name.What I know now is this: when a government begins to fear its own history, it has already declared war on the people who survived it.On resistance and the power of memory through human connection:Long before we were permitted to read, we were remembering. In hush harbors and under moonlight, memory traveled not through paper but through people. The griot, the elder, the preacher, the mama at the stove — all became librarians of the unwritten. The story didn't need a school board's approval to be gospel. It needed only breath.And breath, for us, has always been sacred.By Saint Trey W. • Notes From The Undrowned • 13 min • Gift Link➕ Bonus: Here's the essay with my handwritten highlights and annotations.About the authorSaint Trey W. is a Black queer poet, essayist, and organizer from Brooklyn, New York. His voice carries the salt of survival, the smoke of protest, and the sacred ache of becoming. He writes from the ruins and the rivers, from pews and dancefloors, from the edge of the altar and the underside of America. His Substack publication, Notes from the Undrowned, is not simply a newsletter. It is also a vessel, it is a prayer, and a political reckoning. It is a place to tell the truth when the world demands our silence.About the discussionMy hope is that you'll read “They Burn Books to Burn Us Too” and want to talk about it.We'll be meeting up on Zoom on Sunday, August 24, 2:00 - 3:30 pm PT. We'll spend the first few minutes saying hi and doing short introductions. Then after I frame the piece and share our community agreements, we'll break out into small, facilitated discussion groups. The small groups usually include 5-8 people, so there's plenty of time to share your perspectives and listen to others. That's where we'll spend the bulk of our time. Toward the end, we'll return to the full group, sharing our reflections and appreciations of fellow participants.If this sounds interesting to you, sign up by clicking on the button below.If you're unsure, I get it. If you don't know me, it might feel strange to sign up for an online discussion with total strangers. But I am confident that you'll find yourself at home with other kind people who like to read deeply and explore ideas in community. We've done this 58 times, and by now, it's not a surprise that we're able to create an intimate space, almost like we're in the same physical room together.I hope that you read the piece. If it resonates with you, I encourage you to take the plunge and join us on August 24!Thank you for reading and listening to this week's issue. Hope you liked it.

“Serendipity. If something's happening and you feel like it's meant to be, it's not accident, follow your gut and go with it!” on the Daily Grind ☕️, your weekly goal-driven podcast. This episode features Kelly Johnson @kellyfastruns and special guest Jackson Koorenhof, who runs Trilogy Coffee Kauai — a charming artisan café and coffee/tea bar located in Kīlauea on Kauai's North Shore serving artisanal blends for elevated island living. S7 Episode 35: 7/29/2025Featuring Kelly Johnson with Special Guest Jackson KoorenhofAudio Credit Intro and Outro: Daniel ChayraFollow Our Podcast:Instagram: @dailygrindpod https://www.instagram.com/dailygrindpod/  X: @dailygrindpod https://x.com/dailygrindpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dailygrindpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dailygrindpodPodcast Website: https://direct.me/dailygrindpod  Follow Our Special Guests:Website: https://www.trilogycoffeekauai.com/ Instagram: @trilogycoffeekauai

Meaningful Coincidences in Our Lives with Bernard Beitman Dr. Bernard Beitman, MD, is former Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Missouri-Columbia. He is author of many books, including Connecting with Coincidence: The New Science of Using Synchronicity and Serendipity in Your Life and Meaningful Coincidences: How and Why Synchronicity and Serendipity … Continue reading "Meaningful Coincidences in Our Lives with Bernard Beitman"