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Send us Fan MailIn this seventh episode in our Loud Longings, Holy God series, we explore why our search for comfort is a universal part of being human and why longing is not a sign that something is wrong with us. Together, we talk about how shame can lead us to hide our desires instead of bringing them honestly to God. Looking at Jeremiah 2 and the image of broken cisterns, we consider how food, emotional eating, social media, busyness, achievement, people-pleasing, control, and even ministry can become places we turn for relief instead of lasting comfort.We also reflect on Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman in John 4 and the reminder from Hebrews that He understands our weakness. Rather than condemning our thirst, Jesus invites us to bring it to Him. We share a simple practice for moments when the urge to seek comfort arises: pause, ask what you're truly feeling and what you're hoping that comfort will provide, then turn that longing into a conversation with God. If you've ever found yourself reaching for temporary relief, we hope this episode encourages you to discover the lasting comfort found in abiding with Christ.If you're ready to trade counterfeit comfort for true comfort and deeper spiritual growth, listen now, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review. What “comfort file” do you reach for first when life gets hard? Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.com--For today's episode we sat down with fine artist Tony D'Amico. Tony is a full-time representational painter and draftsman based in southern Connecticut whose work spans cityscapes, landscapes, coastal scenes, interiors, and everyday local subjects, all unified by his obsession with light, atmosphere, and strong design. He began his journey in art as a child, later studying graphic design, working as a commercial artist and technical illustrator, and eventually running his own marketing and design firm before transitioning gradually into fine art. Plein air painting transformed both how he sees and how he paints, forcing him to simplify quickly, capture specific moments in changing conditions, and infuse his studio work with authentic memories of place, light, and atmosphere. Tony is highly intentional in planning his compositions—often using thumbnails, photography, and Photoshop—to design compelling paintings that go beyond mere realism and invite viewers into a story. Drawing from his marketing background, he emphasizes that artists must learn to present and promote their work, build relationships with collectors and galleries, and accept rejection as a motivator rather than a verdict. For aspiring artists, he stresses persistence, continuous learning, good materials, honest self-critique, and the understanding that developing a true artistic voice and career can easily take a decade or more. Finally, Tony tells us about his upcoming shows and his revised book!Tony's FASO site:tonydamicofineart.com/Tony's Social Media:instagram.com/tonydamicofineart/facebook.com/tony.damico.524/Tony's Book:tonydamicofineart.com/books

As part of our Best of Pass the Baton series, we're revisiting one of our favorite conversations from the podcast archives. If you're interested in creating a music classroom where students experience greater autonomy, creativity, and joy, this episode is one you won't want to miss.In this encore presentation of Episode 77, Kathryn and Theresa sit down with Grammy Music Educator of the Year Stephen Cox as he shares his unique approach to music education and discusses his work with the Willis Wonderland Foundation. Drawing on his 14-year teaching career in Texas, Stephen reflects on how he developed a progressive, student-centered approach to band that prioritized student voice, intrinsic motivation, and meaningful musical experiences. He shares how empowering students to lead and make decisions transformed both his teaching and his students' growth.Stephen also introduces the work of the Willis Wonderland Foundation, where he is helping develop free songwriting resources for teachers. Created to honor the legacy of legendary songwriter Allee Willis, the foundation provides educators with tools to inspire creativity through songwriting and student expression. Whether you're hearing this conversation for the first time or listening again, Stephen's ideas offer a compelling vision for how creative freedom and student empowerment can transform music classrooms.Connect with Stephen and learn more: Website: https://stephentcox.com/The Willis Wonderland FoundationResources suggested by Stephen: Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead)Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates UsWhy We Do What We Do: Understanding Self-MotivationPunished By Rewards: Twenty-Fifth Anniversary Edition: The Trouble with Gold Stars, Incentive Plans, A's, Praise, and Other BribesSupport the showLearn more about Pass the BatonPass the Baton websiteJoin the Coffee ClubSupport Pass the BatonAmplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.com--To start off the season, we sat down with fine artist and former software developer Maureen Dunlap. Maureen shares how a childhood immersed in traditional oil painting, guided by mentor Arthur Maynard, eventually wound its way through typography, photo typesetting, and front-end development before circling back to a full-time art career. Maureen talks about rebuilding her painting practice after years away, moving from fast alla prima pieces to highly detailed, indirect paintings that draw on Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Pre-Raphaelite, and Baroque influences. She describes her richly layered seascapes, lace-draped still lifes, and narrative figurative works that often live in ornate vintage or trompe l'oeil frames, all infused with her whimsical titles and maximalist sensibility. Maureen also opens up about the realities of being a full-time artist later in life, balancing joy and financial stability, diversifying income with small works and jewelry, navigating social media and online sales, and her growing desire to teach the next generation of painters.Maureen's FASO site:maureendunlap.com/Maureen's Social Media:facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083217888057instagram.com/maureenjdunlapMaureen's Jewelry Store:instagram.com/the.wonder.cabinet

Send us Fan MailIn this sixth episode of our Loud Longings, Holy God series, we explore what it means to stay with Jesus when cravings, difficult emotions, or overwhelming situations make us want to escape. Beginning with a simple breath prayer and Jesus' invitation in John 15 to "abide in Me," we talk about how urges often feel urgent and permanent, even though they rise and fall like waves. Together, we consider how remaining present with God instead of reacting immediately can help us experience His peace in the middle of the struggle.We also discuss the difference between relying on willpower and abiding in relationship with Christ. Looking at the disciples in the storm, we're reminded that Jesus' presence doesn't always remove the storm, but it does change how we walk through it. We close with a simple practice for moments of temptation: pause, take a slow breath, notice what's happening in your body, and pray, "Jesus, I'm staying." If you've ever felt trapped by the need for immediate relief, we hope this conversation encourages you to remain with the One who is already with you.If this connects with you, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

In this riveting episode, our hosts Alexis and Avery combine two personal favorites of theirs - American history and parrots - to explore the shockingly long list of U.S. presidents (and First Families) who kept parrots in the Oval Office! They kick things off at Mount Vernon with George and Martha Washington's famously referenced parrot Polly, then head into the White House years with James and Dolley Madison and their own Polly the macaw who was an unforgettable guest greeter with a bit of an attitude. From there, they tell the most legendary story of all: Andrew Jackson's African grey parrot and its funeral antics; with a few honorable mentions along the way, such as Grant's mysterious parrot, McKinley's “Washington Post” the Amazon, and Theodore Roosevelt's Macaw “Eli Yale.” Later, White House birds like Eisenhower's “Gabby” and JFK's budgerigars “Bluebell” and “Marybelle” make appearances. Wrapping up the conversation with the last parrots to fly in the White House: Lyndon B. Johnson's two little lovebirds.*A quick reminder when discussing topics from the past: parrot care has drastically improved in the last century. In the last 30 years alone, the scientific literature surrounding parrot care has grown infinitely compared to what was known previously. Please keep in mind Parrot Stars does not condone the manner in which many of these birds were cared for. Yet we do see the value in discussing things accurately, in other words, as they happened, to the best of our abilities. Parrots have played a significant role in our lives throughout much of human history, and the more we learn about them, the better off they'll be everywhere! Tune in for our species spotlight featuring the Yellow-Headed Amazon (Amazona oratrix)!Always Remember: Be kind to your Parrot, and it will be kind to you!—Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsLearn More - References:       Hilarie M. Hicks, “Parroting Historical Research,” Montpelier (August 13, 2018). https://www.montpelier.org/parroting-historical-research/      Laura Doering, “Presidents and Their Pet Parrots,” Pet Birds by Lafeber Co. (February 14, 2013). https://lafeber.com/pet-birds/presidents-their-parrots/      Mary V. Thompson, “Birds,” George Washington's Mount Vernon Digital Encyclopedia. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/birds      Presidential Pet Museum — photos and information about U.S. presidents and their pets. https://www.presidentialpetmuseum.com/      White House Historical Association, “President Theodore Roosevelt's six children brought a menagerie of pets into the White House with them,” Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHouseHistory/posts/president-theodore-roosevelts-six-children-brought-a-menagerie-of-pets-into-the-/3332079173483989/      Xander Zellner, “A Brief History of President-Bird Companionship,” Audubon (February 12, 2016). https://www.audubon.org/news/a-brief-history-president-bird-companionshipSupport the Parrot Stars Podcast!  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the outstanding things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

Send us Fan MailIn this fifth episode of our Loud Longings, Holy God series, we talk honestly about why surrender can feel so difficult, especially when we're letting go of the very things we've relied on for comfort. We begin with a breath prayer from Psalm 73—“You are the strength of my heart... and my portion forever”—and explore how stress, grief, and uncertainty can drive us toward emotional eating, control, perfectionism, busyness, scrolling, or other attempts to find quick relief. Together, we discuss why surrender often involves loss and why acknowledging that grief is an important part of the journey.Looking at Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, we see that surrender isn't about pretending everything is fine—it's about bringing our deepest struggles into relationship with the Father. We encourage listeners to choose connection with Jesus before reaching for immediate relief and share a simple practice to help pause and respond differently when urges arise. If surrender has ever felt overwhelming, we hope this conversation reminds you that you don't have to walk that path alone.If this helped you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show. Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

In this episode of the Parrot Stars Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Richmond and Dr. Snyder for an illuminating conversation that covers the world of veterinarians, parrot welfare, and their personal journeys with the birds they each have at home. Dr. Richmond explains how his experience with the toll that pursuing veterinary science can take inspired the creation of Flourishing Phoenix Veterinary Consultants. While Dr. Snyder found his path through veterinary dentistry, teaching, and clinical leadership at the University of Wisconsin. Of course, their visit to Parrot Stars and first impressions came up once or twice, but more importantly we discussed what they hope bird stores, breeders, and customers prioritize to improve parrot well-being in captivity. Packed with veterinary insights, questions about the future of veterinary medicine (including the role AI could play), and memorable experiences that shaped their careers. Join us as we get to know two veterinarians who are profoundly gifted, knowledgeable, and highly respected within their field, and are truly some of the most kind, thoughtful, and caring people you could meet.Always Remember: Be kind to your Parrot, and it will be kind to you!—Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsLearn more: Flourishing Phoenix: veterinary wellbeing and engagement consulting - https://flourishingphoenix.com/Learn more: University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine - https://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/Support the Parrot Stars Podcast! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the outstanding things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

As part of our Best of Pass the Baton series, we're revisiting one of our favorite conversations from the podcast archives. If you've ever wondered how to create greater student ownership and engagement in your ensemble, this episode is full of practical ideas and inspiration.In this encore presentation of Episode 62, Kathryn and Theresa talk with Kathleen Jacoby, a high school band director in Fairfax, Virginia. Kathleen's teaching philosophy revolves around student ownership and engagement in the music program, drawing from her own experiences in a small band program where every member's contribution was vital. She shares innovative strategies she employs to involve students in decision-making processes, such as selecting pieces and contributing to rehearsal methods. The interview delves into her approach to empowering students by fostering a sense of community, responsibility, and critical listening skills. Kathleen's methods aim to develop not just musical skills but also life skills like leadership, collaboration, and independent thinking. She is dedicated to making music education a transformative experience for students, ensuring that it contributes positively to their overall growth and development.Connect with Kathleen and Learn More: Virginia Band Directors Inclusion Toolkit Learn more about Pass the BatonPass the Baton website Join the Coffee Club Support Pass the Baton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection Support the showLearn more about Pass the BatonPass the Baton websiteJoin the Coffee ClubSupport Pass the BatonAmplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.com--For our season 14 finale, we sat down with artist and veteran art-marketing writer, Lori Woodward. Lori shares how she went from burnout after art school to rebuilding her skills through workshops, portrait commissions, and writing for major magazines and art organizations. She explains how learning directly from successful peers, mentors, and collectors shaped her understanding of how the art market really works, which is very different from generic marketing advice. Lori breaks down the impact of the 2008 recession, why so many galleries and careers collapsed, and why today's market, despite economic anxiety, is fundamentally healthier and full of new, younger collectors. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes that no amount of marketing can replace a cohesive, competitive body of work, consistent production, and a recognizable voice that develops only through years of painting, experimenting, and failing forward. She gives practical guidance on pricing, working with galleries, outdoor shows, email lists, and social media, stressing that real relationships and in‑person experiences now matter more than chasing algorithms. Ultimately, Lori encourages artists to build a realistic vision, move slowly but steadily, and design a career that fits their personality—whether that means becoming a local favorite, a gallery regular, or a small‑scale, part‑time professional who still sells meaningful work.Sign up for Lori's Newsletter:loriwoodward.com/email-newsletterLori's FASO Site:loriwoodward.com/Lori's Social Media:instagram.com/woodwardartist/Lori's Article about Pricing:https://www.artworkarchive.com/blog/how-to-price-consistently-for-art-sales-successLori's Blog:loriwoodward.com/blog

Send us Fan MailIn this fourth episode of our Loud Longings, Holy God series, we explore what happens when our hearts attach to things other than God for comfort, security, and relief. We share a simple breath prayer—“You alone” on the inhale, “are my portion” on the exhale—and reflect on Psalm 16 as we consider where we turn when life feels overwhelming, lonely, or exhausting. Together, we talk about how food, scrolling, spending, productivity, and control can begin to function as little saviors, not because we're weak, but because we were created for connection and our hearts naturally attach to something.Drawing from Exodus 20 and John 15, we discuss how God's invitation is not about behavior management but about abiding in Christ and finding lasting refuge in Him. We explore the difference between chasing quick relief and resting in God's presence, and we offer a simple question to bring into moments of stress or temptation: “Lord, what am I trusting right now?” If you've found yourself reaching for lesser comforts, this conversation is an invitation to slow down, notice where your hope is settling, and rediscover Jesus as your true source of peace and stability.If this connects with you, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What's the comfort you're most tempted to run to first?Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

In this episode, host and CEO Michael Delbar sits down with River Klass, first-generation rancher, restaurateur, and host of the Outdoor Channel's Ranch America. Together, they explore the realities of ranch life and the critical role ranchers play in producing food, stewarding natural resources, and preserving the open spaces that define much of the American landscape.With nearly 90% of U.S. beef producers operating as small, family-run businesses, ranching remains deeply rooted in local communities—yet many consumers have little connection to the people raising their food. Through his work on Ranch America, River shines a light on the hardworking families who care for their livestock, their land, and their communities, often around the clock.Michael and River discuss the challenges facing today's ranchers, the importance of sustainable land stewardship, and why bridging the gap between producers and consumers has never been more important.This episode is sponsored by American Jerky Company.Want to learn more? Chat with us!Support the showLearn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

Our listeners are who keep the Parrot Stars Podcast going! Today we wanted to give a shout out to some of our amazing community members and answer the questions they submitted. We cover topics like training, desensitization, proper grooming, and even yoga! We hope you enjoy and please keep submitting your questions via phone, email, social media, or our typeform (links below). Also, listen for the species spotlight featuring the Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus)!Always Remember: Be kind to your Parrot, and it will be kind to you!—Links:Submit a question/topic for future episodes: https://8eylyng6dks.typeform.com/to/IxjozyVmVisit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsSupport the Parrot Stars Podcast!  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the outstanding things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.com--For today's episode, we sat down with Ned Mueller, an American artist and longtime illustrator-turned-fine-painter, known for his strong drawing, expressive plein air and figurative work, and decades of teaching and mentoring artists around the world. He shares his lifelong journey in art, from drawing as a child and training as an illustrator at Art Center School of Design to eventually transitioning into a fine artist with a distinct voice of his own. He talks candidly about facing serious health challenges, chronic pain, and burnout risks, and how having something meaningful to get up for—his painting practice and the support of his wife Karen—has kept him going. Drawing on decades of experience, Ned emphasizes the “four P's”: patience, perseverance, practice, and passion, urging artists to find subjects they truly love so their excitement shows in the work. He underscores the importance of strong fundamentals—especially drawing and values—explaining that you must first learn to paint what you know, then what you see, and ultimately what you feel. Ned also advises artists to simplify by thinking in big shapes, values, and edges, to do lots of small studies (in plein air and the studio), and to keep sharpening their skills through critique groups, workshops, and consistent practice. Throughout the conversation, he offers grounded yet hopeful insight into building a sustainable art life: do the work, keep learning, accept the hard realities of the art market, and let your love for painting carry you through the long haul. Finally, Ned tells us about his online classes!Ned's FASO site:www.nedmueller.com/Sign up for Ned's workshops!www.nedmueller.com/workshopsSign up for Ned's Newsletter!www.nedmueller.com/email-newsletterNed's Social Media:www.instagram.com/nedmueller06/www.facebook.com/NedMuellerFineArt/

Send us Fan MailIn this third episode of our Loud Longings series, we explore a different way of understanding cravings, urges, and unwanted behaviors. Instead of seeing them as proof that something is wrong with us, we consider the possibility that they may be coming from a single part of us that is tired, lonely, anxious, discouraged, or still carrying old wounds. Together, we talk about how food, scrolling, shopping, busyness, and other comforts can become attempts to soothe those hurting places, and why curiosity often leads to more healing than shame ever could.Drawing from Psalm 34, Hebrews 4, and Matthew 11, we reflect on God's nearness to the brokenhearted and Jesus' compassion toward human weakness. We share a simple breath prayer—“Here I am” on the inhale, “with all of me” on the exhale—and guide listeners through a reflection of bringing their most vulnerable places into Jesus' presence. If you've ever worried that God would pull away if He saw the real you, this conversation offers a gentle reminder that He meets us with steadiness, kindness, and rest, even in the places we would rather hide.Listen, share this with a friend who's tired of shame-driven change, and subscribe so you don't miss the next conversation. If it helps, leave a review and tell us: what part of you is reaching most lately?Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Mark Shekter is a master at creating hits. With a rich background as a Hollywood writer-producer-composer, having worked with Steve Martin, Jim Carrey, Elton John, and many others, Mark has pioneered an entirely new system of creative thinking – Think8. This same easy-to-learn system empowers business leaders to reshape their corporate cultures for unlimited innovation and growth.Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Mark Shekter and his Think8 Global Initiative on his website: https://www.think8globalinstitute.com/Get Mark's book, Think8: 8 Steps to Ignite Your Creative Genius in Business, Career, & Life on Amazon: https://a.co/d/09pvYnh8Tone experiment: Listen to Hurt, as performed by Nine Inch Nails (1994) vs. Hurt performed by Johnny Cash. Listen to Everybody Wants to Rule the World by Tears for Fears vs. Lorde. Timestamps(00:00:00) – Mark Shekter sits down with O'Brien McMahon on People Business, the podcast for HR professionals.(00:02:44) – What is Mark's definition of "creativity"?  (00:05:34) – What's the value of creativity in the workplace (for skeptics)?(00:08:26) – How did the Think8 method come together and start falling into place?(00:12:28) – Walk us through the eight steps of the Think8 process at a high level(00:17:10) – Purpose: How to make this broad topic more accessible.(00:24:09) – How does Mark's own purpose tie together his varied career?(00:33:53) – Ego check: how do we balance wanting acknowledgement with capacity?(00:40:31) – How can purpose be turned into a message to share with the world?(00:47:14) – Tone: how to find the right tone when building a business or personal brand?(00:56:23) – Character: what role does character play when building a business or personal brand?

Send us Fan MailWhat pervasive pest is a record-setting reproducer? Here's a clue…this adaptable amphibian gives off terrifying toxins to would-be predators. Listen to learn more, and see if you can solve this WILD mystery!Download your WILD Freebie for this episode here.Support the showLearn more about School of the Wild Remote Adventures here.Purchase individual issues of the WILD Magazine here.Order your GO WILD Nature Journal here.Download the digital GO WILD Nature Journal here.Visit the contributors to this team: Laura Stroup: @fireflynatureschool Fireflynatureschool.com Lauren Giordano: @chickieandroo Chickieandroo.com Stephanie Hathaway: @stephhathawaydesigns Stephaniehathawaydesigns.com

Parrots are flock animals, and when they live in our homes, we become a part of their flock. In this episode, our hosts talk about how parrots constantly “read the room,” and how the emotional environment of a household can shape a bird's stress level, trust, and overall wellbeing. We break down why social awareness is hardwired into parrots (a behavior that does not disappear in captivity), introduce the idea of your home's “emotional weather,” and discuss real-life household patterns: conflict, constant intensity, chronic stress, chaos, or isolation, that can wear on a bird over time even when no one means to cause it harm. Also covered are common clues that a parrot may not feel consistently safe or settled (like hypervigilance, screaming for attention, refusing to leave the cage, or stress behaviors). Concluding with a brief research-based note on why some parrots are simply more stress-sensitive than others (Cussen & Mench, 2015). Stay for the species spotlight featuring the Moluccan Cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis)!Always Remember: Be kind to your Parrot, and it will be kind to you!—Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsLearn more:       Clark, P. (2013, September 29). The optimal social environment for your parrot. Pet Birds by Lafeber Co. https://lafeber.com/pet-birds/the-optimal-social-environment-for-your-parrot/      Cussen, V. A., & Mench, J. A. (2015). The relationship between personality dimensions and resiliency to environmental stress in orange-winged Amazon parrots (Amazona amazonica), as indicated by the development of abnormal behaviors. PLOS ONE, 10(6), e0126170. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0126170Support the Parrot Stars Podcast!  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the outstanding things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

In this episode, we are uplifting some of the ideas in Elspeth Hay's remarkable book,   Feed Us with Trees: Nuts and the Future of Food.  After starting with Sara Jolena offering a summary of some of the big ideas in the book, we move into a conversation with author Elspeth Hay and a few of the many people whom Elspeth has mentioned in the book: Ron Reed, Karuk tribal member and cultural biologist; Joanna Brooks, settler scholar and author of Why We Left; and Gale Pettifer, commoner and scholar of the New Forest in England. Together they trace a set of histories that turn out to be deeply entangled: Indigenous land dispossession in California, the enclosure of the English commons, the suppression of cultural burning, the erasure of ancestral foodways — and the folk songs, forest laws, and buried memories that survived all of it. Timestamps0:00  —  Welcome & introduction: Sara Jolena introduces the episode, inspired by Elspeth Hay's book Feed Us with Trees, and the “no farm, no food” myth it challenges.2:51  —  Guest introductions: Elspeth introduces Ron Reed (Karuk Nation, cultural biologist), Joanna Brooks (Why We Left), and Gale Pettifer (New Forest commoner and commons scholar).5:44  —  Ron Reed's opening story: childhood memories of harvesting acorns, mushrooms, and salmon; the Klamath Dam removal; and the ongoing fight to restore Indigenous fire practices with public trust objectives.9:20  —  Gale Pettifer on the New Forest: a thousand years of contested common rights, Norman forest law, and what it means to still practice ancient commoning in the 21st century.12:58  —  Joanna Brooks on settler scholarship and song: tracing her European ancestry through folk ballads, a grandmother's lullaby, and a plate of hazelnuts at the British Museum that the curators couldn't explain.18:29  —  Fire across continents: Elspeth connects her experience of gorse burning debates in the New Forest to Ron's work on cultural burning — the same argument, on opposite sides of the Atlantic.30:58  —  Dragons, sacred fire, and colonial memory: a discussion of how fire moved from sacred to feared in Anglo-Saxon and English tradition, illustrated by the New Forest dragon legend and the introduction of Christianity.34:31  —  Songs of grief and displacement: Joanna traces the emotional record of enclosure through English murder ballads — songs about hazel trees, beaver hats, and families starving off the land — and what they reveal about why colonial settlers “lost their minds.”43:12  —  Magna Carta, common law, and the 1877 New Forest Act: Gale traces how brutal Norman forest law paradoxically became the foundation of commoners' rights, and how public outcry saved the New Forest from privatization.47:33  —  The allotment parallel: Elspeth draws a striking connection between English allotment gardens and the U.S. federal allotment system used to break up Indigenous tribal lands — the same word, the same colonial logic, on both sides of the ocean.1:10:42  —  Cycles of colonization and reverse transmission: Sara Jolena traces how colonial practices — from plantation timekeeping to fire suppression — were exported back to Europe, and the importance of distinguishing imperial forces from common people's forces within every culture.1:16:11  —  Closing round: guests share what is shifting now — prescribed fire training in Wellfleet, MA; intergenerational transfer of fire ecology knowledge; the joy of reconnecting with the New Forest through free-roaming ponies — and an invitation to listeners to bring these ideas into their communities.Elspeth HayBook: Feed us with treesWebsiteBioInstaRon ReedArticle about Ron Reed - How Karuk ceremonial leader Ron Reed used Western science to take down the Klamath damsInterview featuring Ron - Fire is Food: A Virtual Brown Bag Discussion with Ron Reed and Kari NorgaardJoanna BrooksBook: Why We Left WebsiteBioLinkedinGale Pettifer LinkedinBioSend us a messageSupport the showLearn more about Sara Jolena Wolcott and Sequoia SamanvayaMusic Title: Both of UsMusic by: madiRFAN Don't forget to "like" and share this episode! 

Send us Fan MailEpisode SummaryGuests: Zac Curtis (Innovation Lead for NextGen Home at E.ON) & Chris Bernkopf (CEO of Podero)How do you scale residential Energy as a Service (EaaS) without upfront capital? E.ON and Podero's 18-home Midlands pilot demonstrates that combining automated zero-upfront multi-asset orchestration (heat pumps, solar PV, batteries, and EV chargers) into a single 10-year fixed tariff wrapper can achieve a +56 Net Promoter Score and stable household comfort. However, scaling this model to a broader target market of 680,000 homes depends entirely on overcoming physical installation bottlenecks, correcting widespread heat pump commissioning errors, and transitioning manufacturer software platforms from standalone thermodynamic efficiency (COP) toward predictive, time-of-use cost-curve steering.Technical Insights1. The Financial Architecture of Energy as a Service (EaaS)The core financial barrier to residential grid decarbonisation is the high upfront capital cost of low-carbon assets.The E.ON NextGen Home pilot addresses this by completely eliminating initial capital expenditure for the consumer. All hardware—including Vaillant heat pumps, SolarEdge solar arrays, and home batteries—is deployed at zero upfront cost.The asset capital paydown is amortised over a 10-year term and embedded directly into a stable, single monthly fixed tariff wrapper.To mitigate risk when a homeowner relocates during the contract term, the asset value is transferred to the property valuation. The incoming buyer inherits an optimised, low-operational-bill home with the initial capital pay-down effectively cleared through the house sale.Following the 18-home proof of concept, E.ON is planning a proactive call for entries to scale up to a representative sample of over 300 homes. This next phase will target specific home archetypes and a diverse mix of consumer behaviours to stress-test the model's mass-market viability.2. Multi-Asset Software Orchestration vs. Standalone COPTraditional heating controls are built to maximise standalone thermodynamic efficiency (COP).In modern dynamic, time-of-use energy systems where wholesale electricity pricing fluctuates sharply between midday and evening peaks, maximising standalone efficiency is an outdated metric.To generate true running-cost savings, Podero's platform bypasses physical gateways to communicate via cloud APIs directly with the assets every few minutes.The software engine shifts focus toward predictive cost-curve steering by calculating the exact building energy deficits and the specific thermal deferral capacity (the duration a building envelope can safely delay or store heat load without dropping interior comfort).3. Supply Chain Quality and "Unconscious Incompetence"The deployment of automated multi-asset steering lives or dies on physical installation quality.A significant portion of the UK installation supply chain suffers from unconscious incompetence—well-meaning installers who lack the specific expertise required for low-carbon engineering.Common field errors, such as incorrect heat pump commissioning, frequently cause internal backup electric immersion heating rods to run continuously, driving up electricity consumption.Additionally, the transition of the UK heating industry into a fragmented landscape of self-employed sole traders complicates the rapid dissemination of best practices. Overcoming this requires a strict, synchronised "waterfall" installation process to handle complex asset interdependencies over a tight five-day window.4. Expanding Beyond Air-to-Water ArchetypesTo scale the EaaS framework past the initial pilot phase toward a representative market sample of 300+ homes, utilities must look beyond standard air-to-water heat pump systems.To accommodate tight mid-terraced houses and flats where external space or pipework disruption prevents traditional setups, the pilot is actively evaluating alternative low-carbon technologies.This includes compact, single-room heat pump configurations operating without external units, localised infrared matting, low-electricity radiant solutions, and smart electric boilers dedicated to domestic hot water (DHW) production.Industry Resources & LinksHost Profile: Nathan Gambling, Head of Technical Education at BetaTeach and host of the BetaTalk podcast. Referenced Data Expert: Mick Wall (Sheffield University), field data analyst tracking "The Holy Trinity" of integrated heat pump, battery, and solar performance telemetry. Support the showLearn more about heat pump heating by followingNathan on Linkedin, Twitter and BlueSky

Send us Fan Mail In this second episode of our Loud Longings series, we explore how cravings are often about much more than food. What looks like a desire for sugar, bread, or chocolate can sometimes point to a deeper longing for comfort, safety, peace, or connection. We begin with a simple breath prayer from Psalm 139—“Search me and know me”—and invite ourselves into a posture of curiosity instead of self-judgment. Together, we discuss how emotionally charged cravings can carry memories, grief, and unmet needs, and why understanding the story behind them can open the door to greater compassion.We also share personal experiences with food and stress, reflecting on how Jesus meets us with tenderness in our places of need. Looking at His ministry around tables and His invitation as the Bread of Life and Living Water, we consider what it means to seek deeper nourishment when cravings become overwhelming.If a nostalgic craving surfaces this week, try pausing and asking, “What story is attached to this?” Then pray, “Jesus, meet me inside of this memory, meet me here.” Subscribe for the rest of this series, share this with a friend who feels stuck, and if it helps, leave a review, so more listeners can find hope and freedom.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.com--For today's episode we sat down with Jennifer Balkan, a contemporary representational oil painter and art instructor based in Austin, with an academic background in behavioral neuroscience and sociology. She describes how a lifelong love of drawing crystallized into a serious painting practice after a transformative, self-gifted trip to Paris, which led her to take her first painting class in Austin in 2001. Despite completing a PhD and following a more “rational” career path, she felt an irresistible pull toward painting, ultimately choosing to pursue art full time even amid concern and confusion from friends and family. Jennifer explains that her scientific and sociological studies deeply inform her figurative work, especially her focus on the emotional, cerebral life beneath a subject's expression and her love of optical color mixing and visible mark-making. She discusses how her inspiration has evolved from narrative series into a stronger emphasis on shapes, light, and color relationships, and how experimenting with different media during the pandemic revitalized her practice and fed back into her oil painting. Jennifer also highlights the central role of Atelier Dojo in her life—as both a co-created figurative hub and an atelier program that nurtures students' individual voices. Jennifer also shares practical, grounded advice for aspiring full-time artists about embracing multiple income streams, loving the process, and committing to sustained, disciplined practice. Finally, she tells us all about her upcoming shows and workshops!Jennifer's FASO site:jenniferbalkan.com/Jennifer's Social Media:instagram.com/jenniferbalkan/Atelier Dojo!atelierdojo.com/

Send us Fan MailLegislative Activity for 2026 and Beyond is reviewed with Maureen McDonnell, VP of Advocacy for AGCMOSupport the showLearn more at www.agcmo.orgPlease share our podcast with anyone interested in the construction industry!

Our hosts, Alexis Highland and Avery Voress, explore the science of flight, from the dinosaur origins of birds to the anatomy and physics that make flying possible. They break down feathers, bones, muscles, lungs, lift, and wing shape, then connect it all back to why flight is so important for parrots' physical and mental wellbeing.This episode also covers how recall, return, stations, and harness training can help companion parrots safely use flight as enrichment, exercise, and confidence-building. The species spotlight is the Pacific Parrotlet (Forpus coelestis).Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsLearn More:      Castro, J. (2018, March 14). Archaeopteryx: The transitional fossil. Live Science. https://www.livescience.com/24745-archaeopteryx.html      Caton, E. (n.d.). How did birds and other dinosaurs learn to fly? Natural History Museum. https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/how-did-birds-and-other-dinosaurs-learn-to-fly.html      Cornell Lab Bird Academy. (n.d.). Everything you need to know about feathers. https://academy.allaboutbirds.org/feathers-article/      Focht, L. (2022, September 19). The physics of flight. Schlitz Audubon. https://www.schlitzaudubon.org/2022/09/19/the-physics-of-flight/      Hartman, S. (n.d.). Fully flighted birds. The Aviator Harness. https://www.aviatorharness.com/blog-feed/fully-flighted-birds      Massen, J., Malone, K., de Vries, R., Beekmans, M., van Zeeland, Y., & Spruijt, B. M. (2023). Do birds enjoy flying? An analysis of affect after flight in galah (Eolophus roseicapilla) (Version 1) [Preprint]. Research Square. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-2386013/v1      Tobalske, B. W. (2016). Evolution of avian flight: Muscles and constraints on performance. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 371(1704), Article 20150383. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2015.0383---Support the Parrot Stars Podcast! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the thrilling things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.com--On today's episode we sat down with Sarkis Antikajian. Born in 1933 in Amman, Jordan, Sarkis discovered French Impressionism and Van Gogh as a teenager — a spark that never left him. He immigrated to the United States at 25, spent 35 years as a pharmacist building the financial independence to paint full-time, and retired in 1994 at 62 to finally live his dream. He is now 93, and still paints every day. Deeply shaped by Van Gogh's persistence, Sarkis believes in loving the process over the outcome, staying curious at every stage of a career, and painting freely without chasing validation or market trends. He has worked across watercolor, acrylic, oil, figurative, landscape, and abstraction — always seeking new ways to see.His advice to artists: find another source of income so financial fear doesn't limit your creativity, paint often and on inexpensive materials, and stop waiting for anyone else's approval to make the work that's truly yours.Sarkis' FASO site:sarkisantikajianfineart.com/Sarkis' PBS Oregon Art Beat Video:https://www.pbs.org/video/oregon-art-beat-painter-sarkis-antikajian/

Send us Fan MailIn this first episode of our Loud Longings series, we explore a different way of looking at longing. Instead of treating it as a problem to fix, we ask what if that ache is actually pointing us toward something deeper. We share a simple breath prayer—“Lord Jesus” on the inhale, “meet me in my longing” on the exhale—and reflect on Psalm 42, where the psalmist openly acknowledges a deep thirst for God. Together, we consider how spiritual longing is not something to fear, but a part of how we were created.We also talk about the connection between longing, emotional eating, compulsive behaviors, and other ways we try to numb discomfort. Rather than asking, “What's wrong with me?” we invite a more honest question: “What am I truly longing for right now?” Looking at Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 4, we see how He meets thirsty people with compassion and offers Himself as the source of lasting satisfaction. We discuss common substitutes such as food, scrolling, busyness, achievement, control, and even ministry activity, and offer a simple practice for when cravings get loud: pause, notice, and pray, “Jesus, meet me here.”If you want a Christian podcast approach to cravings, shame resilience, and deeper intimacy with God, press play. Subscribe, share with a friend who feels stuck, and leave a review so more thirsty hearts can find this conversation.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

David Dean is an author, speaker, and business AI realist who explores how artificial intelligence reshapes work, judgment, and accountability in organizations. Rather than focusing on AI capabilities, he examines the human elements that remain essential: how people navigate uncertainty, where accountability lies when AI assists decisions, and what holds organizations together when technology accelerates faster than clarity. His philosophy is grounded in a simple truth: AI doesn't understand confidence, risk, or consequence—people do, and that's why they still matter.Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about David Dean on his website: https://www.davidchristopherdean.com/Get David's book, An Inbox Between Us on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0ins9UC9Learn some easy AI strategies for work from Jeff Su on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffSu or on his website: https://www.jeffsu.org/ai/Timestamps(00:00:00) – Introducing David Dean.(00:02:35) — What is David's background and how did he get interested in the systems we find at work?(00:04:36) — What are the “hidden systems” operating in our workplaces?(00:09:42) — How does email influence our systems at work?(00:14:05) — What are some real-life examples of discovering how we work?(00:24:12) — What is system/process drift?(00:36:21) — What makes the biggest difference in driving adoption of new processes and ways of working?(00:43:04) — What is the premise of the book, The Inbox Between Us? (00:45:43) — Final thoughts about AI coming into our workplaces. 

Send us Fan MailOverviewIn this episode, we move beyond the industry's obsession with nominal appliance ratings to confront a uncomfortable truth: "The Phantom Efficiency." We sit down with Robert Whitney to discuss why the UK heating sector is currently failing its first major test in the transition to electrification. We explore why we continue to chase theoretical efficiency gains on a spec sheet while ignoring the systemic failure of control strategies in the real world. This is a deep dive into the engineering reality of why our heating systems remain stuck in a high-temperature, on-off cycle, and why "effective control" is the missing link between a building's design and its actual performance.Critical Discussion TopicsThe Myth of Nominal Efficiency: Why the sector prioritises the "sticker" efficiency of an appliance over the reality of how it operates within an integrated system.The "Lobotomised" Boiler: A technical deconstruction of why high-precision modulating boilers are being throttled by outdated switch-live logic, effectively stripping them of the very intelligence we paid for.Transition or Stagnation? Why the shift to heat pumps is exposing the industry's deeper reliance on "rule of thumb" design. We discuss why the lack of systemic control knowledge is one of the greatest barriers to decarbonisation.The Path to Mastery:Why "lifelong learning" and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing—as championed by the BetaTeach ethos—are the only ways to move from phantom efficiency to verifiable performance.Key Technical TakeawaysBeyond the Appliance: Moving the industry narrative from "the boiler is efficient" to "the heating system is optimised."The Physics of Delta T: Robert clarifies why low-temperature flow are not just "nice to haves" but fundamental requirements for both condensing boilers and heat pumps.Data as the Antidote: How community-driven data initiatives (like OpenEnergyMonitor) are providing the hard evidence needed to challenge institutional inertia.About Our GuestRobert Whitney is an independent consultant and former technical leader in the global controls manufacturing sector. With a unique background spanning legacy controls and modern startups, he brings a "no-punches-pulled" perspective on the engineering realities of our current transition.ResourcesRead the latest newsletter: The Phantom Efficiency: Why Boiler Control Strategy Has Become the First Real TestOur thanks to the guild patrons for their continued support: CastRads, Primary Pro, UK Radiators, Payaca, Esby, and Woolsey's Renewables Centre.Support the showLearn more about heat pump heating by followingNathan on Linkedin, Twitter and BlueSky

Alexis Highland and Avery Voress discuss a core truth of parrot behavior: parrots are prey animals, and humans are predators. In this episode, they unpack how that instinct shapes trust, handling, fear, and everyday behavior. From freezing and flying away to screaming and biting, many behaviors people label as “negative” are actually survival communication. This conversation explores how we can better understand our parrots, reduce fear and conflict, and build trust through safety, choice, predictability, and positive reinforcement. Don't forget our species spotlight featuring the Indian Ringneck Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)!—Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsSupport the Parrot Stars Podcast! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the thrilling things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do, and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.comGet over 50% off your first year on your artist website with FASO:FASO.com/podcast---What does it actually mean to make it as an artist? Not the Instagram version — the real version. The one that looks different at 25 than it does at 50. The one that shifts quietly under your feet while you're busy just trying to keep painting.I've had the privilege of sitting down with some of the most seasoned working artists I know, and when I ask them about success, the answers always surprise me. So today, I've pulled together some of the most honest, hard-won perspectives from past guests — on what success actually requires, what it costs, and what it turns into over time.Episodes Mentioned:100 Kevin MacPherson101 Joseph Gyurcsak105 SC Mummert130 Scott Ruthven140 Donald Yatomi

Send us Fan MailIn this final episode of our Embodied and Honest series, we talk about how easy it is to slip into autopilot when life feels overwhelming. We have both experienced what it is like to disconnect from our bodies, ignore our needs, and quietly cope through food, distraction, overworking, or staying constantly busy. But avoiding what is happening inside us does not make those needs disappear. We explore how embodied living is not about self-improvement or striving harder, but about returning to the way God created us to live — aware, connected, and honest with Him and ourselves.Together, we walk through Scriptures like Book of Psalms 46, Ephesians 5, Ecclesiastes 7, and Hebrews 4 as we share practical tools for responding differently in stressful moments. We offer a simple five-step pattern to help create space, name what is true, invite God into the moment, choose a grounded response, and return without shame when we stumble. If you are looking for Scripture-rooted conversations around emotional health, anxiety, coping habits, and spiritual growth, we hope this episode meets you right where you are.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Mary J. Nestor is the author of three books, an award-winning speaker, coach and consultant. In this episode, we cover her Amazon #1 bestseller, Say It Now! Say It Right! How to Handle Tough or Tender Conversations. Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Mary Nestor on her website: https://www.maryjnestor.com/Connect with Mary Nestor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryjnestor-writer-speaker-consultantGet Mary's book, Say it Right! Say it Now! on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0156GOXJTimestamps(00:00:00) – Mary J. Nestor sits down with O'Brien McMahon on People Business, the podcast for HR professionals(00:02:05) – How did Mary Nestor come up with the "Say It Now" philosophy in the first place?(00:06:49) – What is a better way is for families to handle conversations they've been suppressing or stifling?(00:08:33) – How do we build courage in ourselves to have difficult conversations?(00:09:07) – Is "just have courage" the right approach, or is there's a better mindset/story we can tell ourselves to make difficult conversations feel less daunting?(00:09:23) – What framework helps people reset their thinking around difficult conversations?(00:11:46) – What is the "Say It Now" philosophy?(00:13:13) – What is the difference between being nice in the right way versus the wrong way?(00:14:57) – What's a good way to enter a tough conversation: being direct or asking permission first?(00:18:31) – What's a real-world example of redirecting feedback away from personal criticism and toward performance?(00:26:47) – What is the right approach is when dealing with someone who catastrophizes or takes any criticism as a personal attack?(00:31:02) – What if a difficult conversation does not resolve on the first try?(00:35:47) – What's the right medium for difficult conversations: text, voice memos, video, or is live conversation is always better?(00:42:43) – When we say something wrong or hurtful, what does good repair looks like?(00:47:40) – What skills make a person always employable, according to Mary? 

California has a long and deeply rooted agricultural history, yet today the state is often defined by technology, urban growth, and innovation hubs like Silicon Valley. As communities become increasingly urbanized, the connection between people and the land that feeds them continues to fade—even as conversations around sustainability, food systems, and local economies grow more important than ever.In this episode, host and CEO of the Rangeland Trust, Michael Delbar, sits down with Julie Morris, co-founder of Morris Grassfed Beef and a passionate advocate for agricultural awareness in the Bay Area. Julie shares her journey from city life to ranching and explains how small farms and ranches play a critical role in land stewardship, biodiversity, and community resilience in the Santa Clara Valley.Together, they explore conservation partnerships, sustainable ranching practices, and ways to bridge the urban-rural divide through education, storytelling, and policy initiatives like the agricultural awareness campaign for the Santa Clara Valley. Julie also discusses the importance of supporting the next generation of farmers and ranchers, protecting local food systems, and preserving working lands that sustain wildlife habitat, food security, and California's agricultural heritage. This episode offers an insightful look at how collaboration, stewardship, and community engagement can help shape a more resilient future for both people and the land.Want to learn more? Chat with us!Support the showLearn more about the work the Rangeland Trust does by following us on social media @rangelandtrust!

In this episode, Alexis and Avery dive into the meaning of conservation and how it connects directly to the parrot world, where nearly one in three species are endangered or at risk of extinction. Focusing on Central and South America, this conversation highlights two inspiring organizations working to protect some of the world's most vulnerable macaws.First, we explore The Bird Endowment's Nido Adoptivo Blue-throated Macaw Project in Bolivia, which supports the critically endangered Blue-throated Macaw through nest boxes, habitat restoration, and community education. Alexis shares the hopeful progress being made for this rare species, including record fledging numbers and the growing cultural protection surrounding these birds.Next, we look at Ara Manzanillo in Costa Rica and its work with the Great Green Macaw, a species pushed to the brink by habitat loss and poaching. Through rehabilitation, reintroduction, and artificial nesting programs, the project has helped increase both local and global Great Green Macaw populations.Alexis also reflects on how conservation connects back to the Parrot Stars community, including a fundraiser that helped support Blue-throated Macaw conservation efforts from right here in the Chicago suburbs.This episode is all about hope, action, and the power of people coming together to help parrots not just survive, but thrive.If you want to learn more about or support either organization, you can visit them online at: https://www.birdendowment.org/about-nido-adoptivo and https://aramanzanillo.org.Plus, discover the Spix's Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) in our species spotlight!Always Remember: Be kind to your Parrot, and it will be kind to you!—Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsSupport the Parrot Stars Podcast! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the thrilling things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do, and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

Send us Fan MailCampground CEO Sruti Bharat describes the new on-line tool to help connect young people to construction jobs in conjunction with the Missouri Works Initiative and AGC of MissouriSupport the showLearn more at www.agcmo.orgPlease share our podcast with anyone interested in the construction industry!

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.comGet over 50% off your first year on your artist website with FASO:FASO.com/podcast---For today's episode, we sat down with Todd Williams, a Nebraska-born impressionistic oil painter who discovered his calling as a child, went on to study at the Kansas City Art Institute, worked a decade as an illustrator for Hallmark, and has since spent about 25 years as a full-time fine artist represented by major galleries. His work is driven by a desire to evoke emotion at both a distance and up close, with paint quality, broken color, and expressive brushwork often carrying as much weight as the subject itself. Technically, he emphasizes the “science” of painting—values, composition, clean value planes, and his value–color–mixture approach—as the left-brain foundation that lets him later enter a childlike, intuitive “spirit of painting” mode. A major milestone was his Legacy Nebraska Collection, a five-year project tied to Nebraska's sesquicentennial that deepened his connection to place, history, and Native American subjects, and led naturally into his current series of bold, expressive Native American portraits and Western work. His advice to artists centers on perseverance, choosing strong and simple subjects to set yourself up for success, learning from both failures and wins, and accepting the ongoing tension between painting what sells and painting what most moves you. Over time, his definition of success has shifted from financial hunger and high output toward health, spiritual grounding, contentment, and relationships—treating the studio as a sacred space and the artistic journey itself as the true destination. Finally, Todd tells us about his upcoming activities, including teaching workshops with the Indiana Heritage Arts group in Nashville, Indiana and at the Merrick County Museum in his hometown of Central City, Nebraska, participating in ongoing and future Western-themed exhibitions (such as at the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville and Settlers West Gallery in Tucson), and contributing to the traveling “Painting the Arkansas Parks” exhibition organized through the Heart of America Artists for 2026–2027.Todd's FASO site:toddwilliamsfineart.com/Todd's Social Media:instagram.com/toddwilliamsfineart/

Send us Fan MailWe have both learned that what looks like “bad choices” on the outside is often our nervous system trying to survive. In this episode of the Revelation Within podcast series Embodied and Honest, we talk honestly about what it looks like to push through exhaustion, numb ourselves with food or scrolling, or say “I'm fine” when we are anything but. We explore how disconnection from our bodies and emotions can leave us chasing things that never truly satisfy, and how God invites us back into awareness, honesty, and relationship with Him.Together, we walk through Scriptures like James 1:14–15 and Isaiah 55:2, while looking at Jesus as our example of embodied living. We share practical steps for recognizing what is happening inside us without shame, pausing before automatic comfort habits, and bringing our needs to God first. We also introduce a gentle approach to processing overwhelming emotions through gratitude and “titration,” helping us reconnect without feeling flooded. If you are longing for Scripture-rooted mindfulness, emotional honesty, and practical faith for everyday life, this conversation is for you.Subscribe for the next conversation, share this with a friend who is tired of coping on autopilot, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What is one small “baby step” you can practice today?Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Send us Fan MailRyan Jude of the Green Finance Institute (GFI) discusses how to mobilise capital for the UK's green home revolution.OverviewIn this episode, Nathan is joined by Ryan Jude, Programme Director at the Green Finance Institute (GFI) and former Cabinet Member for Climate in Westminster. While Nathan admits his expertise lies in the "weeds" of heat pump engineering rather than the world of high finance, the two find common ground in the necessity of making low-carbon technology the "rational economic choice" for the UK public.From the influence of legendary guitarists like Mark Knopfler and Dave Gilmour to the intricacies of Property Linked Finance (PLF), this conversation bridges the gap between technical installation and the financial mechanisms required to scale the UK's transition to net zero.Property Background & The Financial ChallengeThe UK heating sector is currently at a crossroads. While the "want" for green upgrades is increasing due to volatile international energy markets, the "hassle factor" and upfront costs remains a significant barrier for the average homeowner.Ryan explains that "Green Finance" is not a separate entity, but rather a "tinge" on existing financial products—mortgages, unsecured loans, and infrastructure investments—designed to incentivise sustainable upgrades. The goal is a "Green Economy" where the distinction between green and traditional finance eventually disappears.Key Discussion Points & InnovationsThe Evolution of Green Mortgages: Since 2019, the market has expanded from just four niche products to over 93 today, with an estimated £14 billion annually now flowing through green mortgage products.Property Linked Finance (PLF): Ryan introduces the concept of lending against the land rather than the individual. Based on the "PACE" model in the US, PLF allows the debt to stay with the property, lowering risk for lenders and ensuring the liability passes to the next owner if the current resident moves.The "Hassle Factor" vs. Interest Rates: Evidence from Scotland suggests that a 0% interest rate isn't always the primary driver for consumers. Trust, ease of the customer journey, and the "hassle" of installation are equally critical in determining uptake.The Strategic Partnership: GFI is currently co-running a partnership with the government's Warm Homes Plan, involving major high-street lenders like Barclays, NatWest, and HSBC to design accessible, low-interest, government-backed loans.Energy as an Asset: Discussion on how the National Energy System Operator (NESO) and demand flexibility schemes are turning heat pumps, solar PV, and batteries into assets that can actually reduce monthly outgoings through smart usage.Performance & EvidenceThe impact of current geopolitical events, such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has led to a measurable surge in consumer demand.Solar PV: Requests to major suppliers like Octopus and EDF have increased by over 50%.Electric Vehicles: EV demand has mirrored this uptick, as the cost-per-mile (approx. 8p at home vs. 18p at the pump) makes them the cheaper long-term choice.Scale: Over 27,000 solar installations were recorded in March 2026 alone—the highest in over a decade.Closing ReflectionThe transition to a low-carbon home is no longer just a moral choice; it is becoming a financial necessity. As Ryan notes, success will be achieved when the average consumer wakes up wanting the technology not because it is "green," but because it is the smartest way to protect their household from global energy volatility.Support the showLearn more about heat pump heating by followingNathan on Linkedin, Twitter and BlueSky

Most parrot emergencies aren't random—they come from everyday household routines. In this episode, Alexis and Avery walk through the most common dangers parrots face inside our homes and explain how to build a simple, practical safety system that protects your bird. From air quality and kitchen hazards to doors, fans, other pets, and hidden risks in every room, they break down the biggest safety concerns parrot owners should know.You'll also learn how to bird-proof your home, create safer flight spaces, and prepare for emergencies before they happen. The goal isn't fear—it's prevention. By the end of the episode, you'll be challenged to do a quick safety scan of your home and identify one simple change that can make your parrot safer today. Don't forget our species spotlight featuring the Green Cheeked Conure (Pyrrhura molinae)!Always Remember: Be kind to your Parrot, and it will be kind to you!—-Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsSupport the Parrot Stars Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the wonderful things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do, and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.comGet over 50% off your first year on your artist website with FASO:FASO.com/podcast---For today's episode we sat down with Linda Doll, an 84‑year‑old lifelong multimedia artist. Linda shares how a childhood spent drawing in Brooklyn and studying at the Brooklyn Museum eventually led her to pursue art seriously after age 30, culminating in graduating with honors in painting and printmaking. She describes a pivotal moment with California watercolorist Rex Brandt, whose advice to “start with your strength” helped her stop imitating others, list her own strengths, and finally claim her unique artistic voice. Linda explains that when she began painting her family and scenes of peaceful, everyday life purely for herself, that work unexpectedly became her signature style, winning major awards, building an international reputation, and leading to teaching engagements around the world. She emphasizes that artists should find a niche at the intersection of what they love, what they're good at, and what others respond to, while being realistic about business: pricing low at first, raising prices gradually, and building a solid collector base. Linda also shares practical and philosophical advice on staying creative over a lifetime—working in series, experimenting with multiple media, adapting to physical limitations, and maintaining a daily practice of “wetting the brush” or drawing. Above all, she urges aspiring full‑time artists to be themselves, trust their inner voice, and use their personal strengths so they're leading with their own vision rather than constantly chasing trends. Finally, Linda tells us about her upcoming demos and urges us to keep up with her events by visiting her website!Linda's FASO Site:lindadoll.com/Linda's Tutorials and Mentorship:lindadoll.com/page/13300/videos-and-classesLinda's YouTube Channel:youtube.com/@lindadollLinda's Social Media:facebook.com/lindaadoll/instagram.com/lindadoll5/

Send us Fan MailIn this second episode of our series on living life fully embodied, we talk about what it feels like to move through life physically present but emotionally and spiritually disconnected. We share how disembodiment can quietly shape everyday life through ignoring hunger and exhaustion, numbing with screens or food, staying constantly busy, and treating “pushing through” like a virtue. We explore the reality that numbness never stays contained to pain alone. When we disconnect from hurt, we often lose connection to joy, peace, and meaningful relationships too. At the same time, we recognize that many of these patterns began as survival during overwhelming seasons, chronic stress, loneliness, or environments where slowing down did not feel safe.We ground the conversation in Scripture and the example of Jesus, reflecting on the biblical call to wake up, walk wisely, guard our hearts, and bring our burdens honestly to Christ instead of carrying them alone. We also discuss the difference between conviction and condemnation, and how striving, self-reliance, and constant performance can slowly dull our awareness of the Holy Spirit's leading. Throughout the episode, we encourage listeners to begin noticing what is happening beneath the surface without shame or fear. Awareness is not the end goal. It is the beginning of living more fully connected to God, to others, and to the body He has entrusted to us.Subscribe, share this with a friend who feels numb, and leave a review. Where do you notice yourself checking out most often?Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Send us Fan MailAmerica's Moving Forward and other construction industry issues are discussed with Brian Turmail from AGC of America.www.americamovingforward.comSupport the showLearn more at www.agcmo.orgPlease share our podcast with anyone interested in the construction industry!

In this episode, our hosts Alexis and Avery share the bird experiences that shaped their lives—from childhood memories of backyard birds and farm chickens to serious birding, museum research, conservation studies, and Costa Rica. They reflect on the experiences that led them to work with parrots today. They reflect on the moments that deepened their passion for birds and discuss why education, conservation, and better care for parrots both in our homes and in the wild matter more than ever. Plus, a round of Two Truths and a Lie! Don't forget our species spotlight featuring the Blue-Headed Pionus (Pionus menstruus)!Always Remember: Be kind to your Parrot, and it will be kind to you!—Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsOSU Museum of Biological Diversity: https://mbd.osu.edu/North Central College: https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/Support the Parrot Stars Podcast! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/supportFollow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the thrilling things happening at Parrot Stars!Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do, and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.comGet over 50% off your first year on your artist website with FASO:FASO.com/podcast---For today's episode, we sat down with Tanner Steed, a Denver-based oil painter and instructor who built a full-time career through self-directed classical training, mentorships with leading figurative artists, and a practice rooted in painting his lived experiences with a focus on strong composition and poetic mystery. Tanner shares how he built his career by treating art like any other skill in the brain—showing up daily, doing master copies, and effectively creating his own “atelier” when formal schools weren't an option. He urges artists to paint what they genuinely love instead of chasing trends or specific collectors, trusting that sincere, well-crafted work will find its audience. A big part of his advice is to start paintings over and over to strengthen composition and value design, build or initiate community (from family collectors to plein air groups), and maintain multiple income streams through galleries, direct sales, teaching, and educational content. He also emphasizes persistence—reaching out repeatedly to mentors, reinventing yourself socially when needed, and committing to be “the last one standing” in the long game of artistic mastery. Finally, Tanner closes by mentioning current and upcoming projects, including his 100 Flowers Sale, a group show at Saks Galleries, an Art Renewal Center piece showing at Sotheby's, workshops in Rome through Rome Art Residencies, and a future painting workshop along the Danube River cruise.Tanner's Sale!:tannersteedart.com/collections/228563Tanner's FASO site:tannersteedart.com/Tanner's Social Media:instagram.com/tannersteedart/Tanner's YouTube:youtube.com/@tannersteedart

Send us Fan MailIn this first episode of our four-part series on living embodied, we explore what it means to stop disconnecting from our bodies and start living with honesty before God. We share how many of us learned to survive hard seasons by numbing out, pretending we're okay, and pushing through pain until disconnection became normal. From our perspective, embodiment is not about self-obsession or chasing trends. It's about integrity, stewardship, and being truthful about what's happening inside us. We ground the conversation in Scripture, looking at God breathing life into humanity in Genesis 2:7, the call to honor God with our bodies, and the reality of Jesus coming in the flesh.We also reflect on Elijah's collapse in 1 Kings 19 and how God responded first with rest and nourishment before correction or instruction. That moment reshaped the way we think about burnout, healing, and the connection between body and spirit. We end by focusing on the resurrection of Jesus, reminding ourselves that He still carried a physical body, invited people to touch His wounds, and even ate with His disciples. That truth challenges the temptation to escape our limits or disconnect from ourselves. We leave listeners with one gentle question to begin practicing awareness without shame: “What is happening in my body right now?” because awareness is often the first step toward healing and change.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Jodee Blanco is an expert on the human component of effective communication. She is the author of two New York Times bestsellers, including the seminal memoir Please Stop Laughing at Me… and the founder of INJJA (It's NOT Just Joking Around!), the first survivor-led anti-bullying program in the country. She consults for schools and corporations and has taught at The University of Chicago and New York University.Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Jodee Blanco on her website: https://www.jodeeblanco.com/Connect with Jodee Blanco on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodeeblancoGet Jodee's book, Please Stop Laughing at Me (updated, 2022): https://a.co/d/0895F99HAlso mentioned on the show: The Anger Trap by Les Carter (https://a.co/d/04r3ox0r) and Loving What Is by Byron Katie (about “The Work,” Byron Katie's technique: https://a.co/d/03msu0XT) Listen to Jennifer Fraser, PhD on the People Business Podcast talking about the gaslit brain: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/jenniferfraser/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/qpPYdAKmiCY?si=DylW7mNGnQn7M4gLTimestamps(00:00:00) – Jodee Blanco sits down with O'Brien McMahon on People Business(00:02:37) – What's the backstory behind Please Stop Laughing at Me, Jodee's book about bullying?(00:05:44) – What form did Jodee's bullying take: physical, mental, or otherwise? (00:10:49) – How can victims of bullying rebuild self-confidence?(00:15:16) – Where is the line between turning suffering into power versus tipping over into vengeance?(00:23:09) – Joking around: how to distinguish between joking and bullying.(00:33:11) – How to help people who are prone to negative reactions build grit, resilience, and hardiness.(00:40:22) – Truth: determining what is true about a circumstance and how truth relates to bullying.(00:48:53) – Jodee is available to talk to you, your school, or your business about bullying and communication.

Listen now to learn how to match the right parrot to your home and set everyone up for long-term success.Bringing a parrot home is exciting—but your living space plays a huge role in whether that relationship succeeds long term. Your home becomes your bird's entire world, so noise, space, stimulation, and housing rules all matter more than people realize.In this episode, our hosts Alexis Highland and Avery Voress talk about the realities of keeping parrots in apartments, condos, and single-family homes, including common challenges like noise complaints, limited space, overstimulation, and changing lease or HOA rules.Our hosts also share practical tips to help you set up your home for success and choose a species that fits your environment.The type of home you live in should influence which parrot species you choose—or whether it's the right time to get one at all.Planning ahead now can prevent one of the most heartbreaking outcomes in parrot ownership: having to give your bird up later. Our goal: help you keep your bird. Don't forget our species spotlight featuring the Princess Parrot (Polytelis alexandrae)!Always Remember: Be kind to your Parrot, and it will be kind to you!—Links:Visit Us: https://www.parrotstars.comParrot Stars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotstars/Parrot Stars on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parrot_starsParrot Stars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parrotstarsSupport the Parrot Stars Podcast! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Follow the Parrot Stars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. Watch the video content on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for regular updates about all of the outstanding things happening at Parrot Stars! Enjoy the episode? Download each one and don't forget to like, subscribe, and review! Your support helps us with everything we do, and we genuinely appreciate it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn more about Parrot Stars and shop online at parrotstars.com

Join our next FASO Show Live!https://artists.boldbrush.com/p/the-faso-showLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!boldbrushshow.comGet over 50% off your first year on your artist website with FASO:FASO.com/podcast---For today's episode we sat down with Alyse Firefly Russell, a figurative painter whose work blends realism with surreal, colorful, often floral elements, a style that was largely shaped by years of live painting at music festivals where she learned to paint intuitively “with the music.” She explains that her path included attending an art magnet school, art college, and then gradually building a career through live painting gigs that evolved into larger festivals and gallery shows. Returning to full-time painting after a break for family health issues, she describes dealing with imposter syndrome and how winning the BoldBrush contest and reconnecting with a gallery reassured her that she is indeed a professional artist. Her core practical advice for becoming a full-time artist is to maintain consistent studio hours, treat art like a real job, and avoid burning out by overworking, since regular rest actually helps the work improve. She also emphasizes the importance of putting yourself out there by showing up at events, talking to people, and learning basic marketing because even highly skilled artists won't sell if no one sees their work, while less technically skilled but visible artists often do well. Alyse also highlights nurturing relationships with collectors (e.g., newsletters, personal notes, holiday cards) and reminds artists that careers usually grow gradually, through small, steady steps rather than a single “big break.” Finally, Alyse tells us about her upcoming group show “Bloom: A Kaleidoscope of Botanical Beauty” at Threyda Gallery in Denver, opening May 1, 2026 and running through the end of May, with the show also viewable online at the gallery's website.Alyse's FASO Site:alyserussell.com/Alyse's Social Media:instagram.com/alysefireflyartfacebook.com/AlyseFireflyArt/Threyda Gallery "Bloom: A Kaleidoscope of Botanical Beauty"threyda.com/pages/gallery

Send us Fan MailTwo brothers working under the same roof sounds simple… until you hear what actually powers it. On this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, Anthony talks with guests Devin and Tyler about the shared family code that shaped who they are today—built on hard work, consistency, and refusing to quit on yourself.Anthony dives into the defining moments that influenced them, from watching their dad come home exhausted and still show up for his kids, to how that example became the standard they now carry into personal training, coaching, and everyday life. If you care about mindset, discipline, leadership, and building confidence through effort, this conversation hits fast.He also gets into the tough conversations people usually avoid. Is being “selfish” always a bad thing, or can it be the responsible choice when protecting your family and setting priorities? Who really comes first when you're balancing a spouse, kids, siblings, and parents—and how does that shift over time? The conversation also explores competition and happiness, what it means to hate losing, why the process matters more than the outcome, and how to raise kids in sports without teaching them to fear failure or chase empty validation.Bringing it back to gym culture and coaching quality, Anthony Amen breaks down what “client first” actually means in fitness, why education will always beat trendy workouts, and how great teams are built by protecting standards before chasing growth. Whether you're a trainer, athlete, or just trying to get stronger without wasting time, you'll hear what truly separates quality from noise.If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review.What's one value you learned from your family that still drives how you work today?Support the showLearn more at: www.Redefine-Fitness.comSupport the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Spencer Smith is a Senior Vice President at Pareto Health, a leading employee benefit group captive manager that helps midsize employers reduce health insurance costs and volatility. He is also the host of Self-Funded with Spencer, a podcast focused on self-funded employee benefits plans and the complex healthcare ecosystem. Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Self Funded with Spencer, the podcast hosted by Spencer Smith: https://www.selffundedwithspencer.com/Connect with Spencer Smith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-fundedSpencer Smith is with ParetoHealth: https://www.paretohealth.com/Both O'Brien and Spencer are fans of the work/videos of Eric Bricker, MD. Learn more:  https://www.ahealthcarez.com/Timestamps(00:00:00) –O'Brien McMahon of People Business welcomes Spencer Smith of Self Funding with Spencer(00:03:12) – How did you get started hosting a podcast about self-funded medical plans? (00:05:42) – What's the difference between a fully insured plan and a self-funded plan? (00:08:08) – What are the benefits of a self-funded plan, beyond cost savings?(00:09:20) – When do self-funding plans make sense, or when do fully insured plans still make sense? (00:13:54) – What is the dreaded insurance "death spiral"?  (00:17:21) – How difficult is it for a company switching from fully insured to a self-funded model?  (00:23:01) – What are the most common mistakes for companies that tried self-funding and had it go poorly? (00:29:38) – What do typical savings look like when moving from fully insured to self-funded, assuming the plan runs as expected? (00:32:28) – What is Pareto Health, and what is Spencer's “day job”? (00:41:47) – What is a healthcare ecosystem, and what does it mean for employees' healthcare consumer experience? (00:44:17) – Why does Spencer think pharmacy plans are a great place to start with exploring self-funding?(00:53:34) – What is care navigation? (00:54:55) – How important is communication when it comes to healthcare benefits?