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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 JM Brodrick, a wildlife painter originally from Detroit, Michigan, who trained early under her Finnish grandmother and now creates large, ethereal acrylic works that often get mistaken for oils. She explains her deep connection to wildlife—especially birds and white animals—and how she merges realism with abstraction, inspired by double-negative film accidents and her dislike of traditional, detailed backgrounds. JM describes her years in Fairbanks, Alaska, where she balanced single motherhood, a full-time career in commercial insurance, and work as a composite artist for law enforcement, all while steadily pursuing her art on evenings and weekends. She talks about the fear and liberation of going full-time in 2005, emphasizing how competitions, self-criticism, and painting faster pushed her to continually “up her game.” As business advice, she recommends watching the market while staying true to your voice, using an 80/20 balance between gallery-friendly work and more experimental competition pieces, and always investing in archival, professional materials. For artists who want to go full-time, her core guidance is to never give up on yourself, build strong drawing and color foundations, learn from “failed” paintings, be disciplined with time, and accept that a job along the way can be part of what ultimately makes you a better, more resilient artist. Finally, JM tells us about her upcoming participation at an exhibition with the American Professional Artists League at the Salmagundi Club and an upcoming group show at Cole Gallery.JM's FASO website:jmbrodrick.com/JM's Instagram:instagram.com/j.m.brodrick/

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--Welcome back to another compilation episode. Today's topic is the one almost every artist either loves to hate or just quietly avoids: marketing. Social media, email lists, galleries versus going direct. We pulled the most practical, most repeatable advice on this from across the show's run. No growth hacks, no algorithm tricks that'll be outdated by the time you hear this; just the stuff that actually holds up. Let's get into it. Guests in order of appearance:32 Jason Polins114 Kyle Stuckey12 Clint Watson132 Keith Bond61 Nanci France-Vaz14 Jeanne Rosier Smith33 Diego Glazer71 Matthew White125 Mary Aslin117 Poppy Balser118 Shuang Li133 Ginny Butcher52 Sarah Sedwick63 Noah Buchanan64 Oliver Sin37 Catherine Bobkoski165 Cindy Baron32 Jason Polins129 Brian Bateman89 Orlando Whitfield60 Gladys Roldan-De-Moras94 Karen Blackwood105 SC Mummert34 Christopher Remmers

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--Welcome back to another compilation episode. Today we're going deep on one relationship that shapes many painting careers, whether you love it or dread it: the one between an artist and a gallery. We pulled the best, most specific moments on this topic from across the show's run, from first impressions to knowing when to walk away. No new guest today, just the collected wisdom of the artists who've actually lived this. Let's get into it. Guests in order of appearance:111 Matt Smith138 Michelle Dunaway124 Hilarie Couture184 Jennifer Balkan176 Ellen Howard121 Paul Batch112 Philippe Gandiol122 Russell Gordon128 Sarah Yeoman118 Shuang Li105 S.C. Mummert168 Stacey Peterson164 Sandra Duran Wilson123 Michael Orwick144 Christine Code111 Matt Smith145 Erik Koeppel132 Keith Bond111 Matt Smith 110 Robert Johnson138 Michelle Dunaway170 Kim Lordier

In episode 117, Theresa and Kathryn talk with Jazzmone Sutton, Senior Manager of State Advocacy and Equity at NAfME, about rethinking what music education advocacy can look like. Jazzmone challenges the idea that advocacy is simply “sharing the good news” about our programs, instead describing effective advocacy as getting others to act positively on behalf of students and educators—and doing that work proactively. A key part of that advocacy? Students themselves. Jazzmone shares powerful stories of elementary students identifying what they needed, creating opportunities to make music beyond the classroom, and even advocating directly with a principal for a middle school choir.The conversation also explores how student ownership and advocacy are deeply connected. When students understand why music matters to them, have opportunities to lead, and see themselves as drivers of their own musical journeys, they become authentic advocates for music education. Jazzmone offers practical encouragement for teachers who feel uncomfortable advocating, reminding us that a “no” from one person isn't a “no” from everyone; and that doing advocacy work often means getting comfortable with discomfort, building relationships, and refusing to simply accept the status quo when students deserve better.Connect with Jazzmone and learn more: Email Jazzmone - advocacy@nafme.org Advocate for Music Education The Music Education Advocate PodcastSupport the showLearn more about Pass the BatonPass the Baton websiteJoin the Coffee ClubSupport Pass the BatonAmplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of BetaTalk, host Nathan welcomes heat pump expert Graham Hendra to discuss his latest project: an AI-driven platform called Energy Donkey, developed in collaboration with Planet Devices.Designed to replace frustrating online forums and standard LLMs that mix reliable and poor advice, Energy Donkey leverages a curated repository of verified engineering data and real-time operational metrics. The system functions across three distinct service levels:Free Homeowner Advice: Answers standard consumer questions regarding heat pump suitability, noise, and installation requirements using verified technical data.Direct Unit Control: Interfaces directly with heat pump hardware via a small monitoring device, allowing users to check operational statuses, schedule setback modes, set spending limits, and automate weather compensation using natural language prompts.24/7 Field Tech Support: Provides installers and engineers with instant, model-specific diagnostic rules and fault-code guidance around the clock, bypassing long manufacturer hold times.Operating on a freemium, pay-per-use credit model using "carrots," Energy Donkey reduces routine inquiry loads for manufacturers while offering real-time performance tracking, predictive maintenance alerts, and expert technical assistance.Support the showLearn more about heat pump heating by followingNathan on Linkedin, Twitter and BlueSky

Are Your Hormones Really Out of Balance in Perimenopause? Dr. Sharon Stills, ND, Explains What's Happening and What to DoTold, "It's just aging"? Dr. Sharon Stills says perimenopause isn't a disease, and there's a real answer for your hormones.Dr. Sharon Stills spent her twenties as, in her own words, "a hot mess": PMS for two and a half weeks a month, migraines, allergies, asthma, and so much bloating that strangers asked when her baby was due. There was no baby. That was her hormones. Twenty-five years, one naturopathic medical degree, and a menopause of her own later, she's a licensed ND who's helped thousands of women rebalance their hormones, and she just opened a 7,000-square-foot healing center in Scottsdale with her son.In this episode, Andrea and Dr. Stills get into what bioidentical hormones actually are, why the cream your doctor gave you might not be working (hint: it's probably where you're putting it), and why she believes hormone decline, not "aging," is the real root cause of most perimenopause and menopause symptoms. They also cover the messy realities: insurance that won't cover hormone therapy, social media misinformation about compounded hormones, and why Dr. Stills had to fight her own insurance company over a continuous glucose monitor.If you've ever been told your hormones are "probably fine" without ever being tested, this one's for you.What you'll learn:Why perimenopause and menopause aren't a "disease," and what's actually declining in your bodyThe real difference between bioidentical hormones (BHRT) and synthetic HRT, and why your body can tellWhy rubbing hormone cream on your arms or belly might mean you're getting almost none of the benefitDoes vaginal estrogen go "systemic"? Dr. Stills settles the debate that's all over social media right nowWhat individualized hormone testing looks like, and why "here's a patch, see you in a year" isn't itChapters:3:11 Why Perimenopause and Menopause Aren't a "Disease"4:51 Meet Dr. Sharon Stills, ND: Naturopathic Medicine's Menopause Expert8:41 From Hormonal Chaos to Naturopathic Doctor: Dr. Stills' Own Story19:11 What Is Bioidentical Hormone Therapy? Estrogen, Progesterone & Testosterone Explained30:11 The Hormone Cream Mistake Almost Everyone Makes39:11 Hormone Testing, Insurance Battles & the CGM Loophole47:41 What "Bioidentical" Really Means + Inside the Lasting Wellness Center52:41 The Free Menopause Summit & Where to Find Dr. Stills57:31 Final Thoughts: Please Rate & Share the ShowLearn more about Dr. Stills: drsharonstills.comLearn to register for The Future Of Meno(pause) Medicine Summit. Visit: https://drtalks.com/summits/menopause?uid=981&oid=114&ref=2584Send us Fan Mail ======Morphus: Menopause Reimagined

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 Rich Nelson, a signature member of both the Portrait Society of America and Oil Painters of America, with a career that grew out of an unlikely start playing in a rock band before formal illustration training pulled him toward fine art. In this episode, he breaks down Sargent's blunt advice that you can't shortcut your way into portraiture: you have to become a real, all-around artist first, mastering anatomy, landscape, and still life before you ever specialize.  He'll also make you rethink what goes in your portfolio, with a simple rule: never show work you don't want to get hired to do more of, because clients will always call back asking for exactly what they saw. And he shares the deceptively simple habit that's opened more doors for him than almost anything else: reaching out to other artists and asking real questions, and maybe even visiting their studio. If you're anywhere near Tryon, North Carolina, don't miss Rich's stacked 42-piece solo show at the Tryon Fine Arts Center — up through October 17th and almost entirely painted from life. And this October, his Plein Air Painters of the East crew rolls into Charleston for a week that culminates in a can't-miss group show at the Meyer Vogel Gallery. Rich's FASO site:richardchristiannelson.com/Rich's Social Media:instagram.com/richardchristiannelson/facebook.com/RichardChristianNelson/Rich's YouTube Channel:youtube.com/@richnelsonpainterRich's Band:richnelsonband.com/

Send us Fan MailWe sit down with Michelle for an honest and encouraging conversation about what it looks like to find peace with food after decades of dieting, striving, and struggling with body image. Michelle shares how she first discovered Thin Within (later Revelation Within), walked away when things seemed “good,” and eventually returned when her efforts to control food began to unravel. Together, we explore spirit-led eating, the difference between restriction and freedom, and why grace—not willpower—is at the heart of lasting change. Michelle also vulnerably shares about early image pressure, trauma, and using food as comfort, and how she is learning to let Jesus meet her in those tender places without condemnation.We also get practical as Michelle shares the mind-renewal tools she uses in everyday life, including the simple question, “What is true, God?” We talk about using Scripture to challenge lies like “I'm no good” and “I have to fix this to be okay,” while discovering how a secure identity in Christ affects not only our relationship with food and our bodies, but also fear of man, conflict, disappointment, and anxiety. If you're longing for Christian eating freedom, healing from diet culture, or a calmer relationship with food and your body, we hope Michelle's story gives you both encouragement and a next step toward experiencing God's grace right in the middle of everyday life.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Birding can be as simple as noticing the birds in your backyard or as serious as traveling hundreds of miles to find a rare species in its natural habitat! In this episode, hosts Alexis and Avery explore what birding is, the different types of birdwatching, and the basic tools that can make the experience even more rewarding. They discuss the absolute joy of birding but also touch on the ethics of using recorded bird calls in the field. Along the way, they share their own birding stories and explain why observing wild birds can deepen our appreciation for nature, conservation, and the incredible lives of birds beyond our homes.Don't forget our species spotlight featuring the Kea (Nestor notabilis)!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:Bureau of Land Management. U.S. Department of the Interior. http://www.blm.gov U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Birding Is Soaring in Popularity with Sky-High Impact.” December 9, 2024. https://www.fws.gov/story/2024-12/birdwatching-america U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. United States Fish & Wildlife Service. https://www.fws.gov/ Support the Parrot Stars Podcast on Buzzsprout!  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/support Support the Parrot Stars Podcast on Buy Me A Coffee!https://buymeacoffee.com/parrotstarspodcastFollow 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 MailEpisode 293 — The Lost Art of Being HomeWhen did home become the place we rush through on the way to everything else?In this episode of Nourished Connections, I'm talking about the lost art of simply being home—and why I think we need to rediscover it.So much of modern life pulls us outward. Work, errands, activities, appointments, sports, shopping, screens, and constant entertainment can leave us spending less and less time actually enjoying the homes we work so hard to create.I'm sharing thoughts on why being home matters, how staying home can strengthen family connection, save money, encourage creativity, and create space for rest. We'll also talk about the difference between physically being at home and actually being present there, why kids need boredom sometimes, and how to create a home that your family genuinely enjoys spending time in.This is not about isolating ourselves from the world. It is about remembering that some of the most meaningful parts of life can happen right inside our own four walls.If you'd like more encouragement and practical ideas for creating a cozy, intentional home, I'd love to have you join my Cozy Homemaker Circle on Facebook.Join the Cozy Homemaker Circle here:https://healthcoachh.samcart.com/products/cozy-homemaker-circleSupport the showLearn how to rate and review this podcast HERE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Check out my website HERE

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--Welcome to a special edition of The FASO Show. If you've listened for a while, you already know the drill: near the end of almost every conversation, we ask our guest some version of the same question. What advice would you give to someone who wants to make this a full time life? Over a hundred episodes, we've collected a hundred different answers. So today, we're doing something different. No new guest, no new interview. Just the best of that advice, all in one place, back to back. Consider this your one-stop pep talk from a room full of working painters. Let's get into it!Episodes mentioned (in order of appearance):156 Shanna Kunz165 Cindy Baron112 Philippe Gandiol179 Tanner Steed142 Grace DeVito144 Christine Code137 Chris Krupinski104 Thomas Schaller121 Paul Batch120 Kim Casebeer145 Erik Koeppel175 Emma Kalff159 Barbara Jaenicke167 Stephanie Marzella165 Cindy Baron133 Ginny Butcher126 Scott Tallman Powers116 Liz Haywood Sullivan114 Kyle Stuckey105 S.C. Mummert190 Robert Goldman

Send us Fan MailSometimes our lives look “fine” on the outside while we feel ruled on the inside by pressure, cravings, people-pleasing, and the belief that we have to earn rest. In this episode, we get practical about boundaries as loving limits that protect our freedom—especially when food, body image, exercise, and coping habits become tangled up with shame and urgency. We begin with movement and exercise, talking honestly about how easy it is to use workouts to repay eating, chase worthiness, or push through pain. From there, we explore “counterfeit comforts” like scrolling, streaming, shopping, overworking, alcohol, and reassurance-seeking. One of the simplest tools we return to is the pause: before we reach for the next distraction or comfort, we stop, name what we're feeling, ask, “What am I hoping to receive?”, and invite God into the moment so we can choose rather than simply react.We also talk about boundaries with our time, relationships, and rest, including practical words we can use when we encounter pressure, disrespect, harsh tones, or yelling. We explore how over-explaining can become an attempt to manage someone else's opinion and how Galatians 6 helps us distinguish between carrying another person's burdens and taking responsibility for their load. And because productivity culture often teaches us that we can rest only after everything is finished—which is basically never—we come back to the importance of receiving rest without having to earn it. We close with five discernment questions to bring to God, helping us recognize the difference between healthy boundaries and fear-based walls, punishment, or control.If this conversation helps you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs a grace-filled “no,” and leave a review so more people can find the podcast.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Succession is one of the greatest challenges facing the ranching industry today. With an estimated 70% of U.S. farms and ranches expected to change hands over the next 20 years, thoughtful planning will be essential to ensuring these operations survive and remain productive for generations to come.Successful succession involves far more than transferring land from one generation to the next. It requires early planning and honest conversations about family roles, business structure, finances, ownership, and the changes that come with transitioning leadership.In this episode, host and CEO of the Rangeland Trust, Michael Delbar, sits down with Rangeland Trust ranching partners Mark and Dina Moore of Lone Star Ranch. They share their experience keeping the ranch intact across generations and the steps they have taken to prepare the next generation to lead while preserving the legacy of the land.The discussion also examines the broader challenges facing ranchers today, including rising costs, regulatory complexity, development pressure, and the difficulty of keeping younger generations engaged in agriculture.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!

Where you place your parrot's cage can shape how safe, connected, and rested they feel every day. In this episode, Alexis and Avery break down the three things every good cage location should provide: safety, social connection, and recovery. They discuss windows, vents, cords, household traffic, other pets, and common locations like living rooms, bedrooms, offices, kitchens, and more! They also explain how a “poorly” chosen spot can contribute to hypervigilance, contact calling, increased defensive behavior, poor sleep, and difficulty playing independently, all of which goes hand in hand. Learn how the right location can help your parrot feel included without living in constant chaos.Don't forget our species spotlight featuring the Congo African Gray Parrot (Psittacus erithacus)!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 on Buzzsprout!  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2376122/supportSupport the Parrot Stars Podcast on Buy Me A Coffee!https://buymeacoffee.com/parrotstarspodcastFollow 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

What if your next concert piece became the starting point for an unforgettable learning experience? In episode 116, Theresa and Kathryn welcome back middle school band director Kyle Rinke to explore how interdisciplinary projects can transform students' connections to music. From museum visits and collaborative art projects to poetry, mindfulness, and even performing in a natural rock amphitheater, Kyle shares how he builds meaningful experiences around concert repertoire that help students engage with music on a much deeper level.Kyle also offers practical advice for teachers who want to try something new without feeling like everything has to be perfectly planned. He discusses collaborating with colleagues across subject areas, balancing rehearsal time with creative exploration, embracing imperfection, and focusing on memorable experiences over flawless performances. Whether you're ready to plan an ambitious cross-curricular project or simply looking for a small way to help students connect more deeply with the music they play, this conversation is full of inspiring ideas and actionable takeaways.Connect with Kyle and learn more: Email: krinke@nlsd122.orgVideo: Martino Band at Starved RockEpisode 108: Centering Students, Creating Community, with Jaime Escatel and Kyle RinkeA note from our Sponsor: You Love Teaching. But Is the Job Taking Too Much From You?Nobody becomes a music educator because they want to spend their evenings answering emails, worrying about budgets, planning fundraisers, organizing trips, or lying awake thinking about everything they didn't get done.We do it because we love changing students' lives.But somewhere along the way, many of us begin sacrificing our own health, relationships, and well-being in the process. We convince ourselves that's just part of the job.It doesn't have to be.I'm Lesley Moffat, host of the Band Director Boot Camp podcast, and after years of burnout that seriously impacted my own health, I discovered there was a better way. That's why I wrote I Love My Job, But It's Killing Me, a practical guide to helping educators reclaim their time, protect their well-being, and continue doing the work they love without sacrificing themselves.I'd love to send you a free copy.Visit mpowerededucator.com/freebook and take the first step toward amplifying your impact, not your workload.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

Send us Fan MailHave you ever looked around your home and immediately started noticing everything that still needs to be cleaned, organized, decorated, or fixed?In this episode of Nourished Connections, I'm talking about the difference between creating a perfect home and creating a home that simply feels good to live in.We'll talk about why perfection can become exhausting, how comparison can make us feel like our homes are never enough, and why the way a home feels often matters more than how it looks. I'm also sharing simple ways to make your home feel calmer and more inviting without spending all day cleaning or trying to finish every project.A good home does not need to impress people. It needs to support the people who live there.If you'd like more encouragement, practical homemaking ideas, and community, I'd love to have you join my Cozy Homemaker Circle on Facebook.Join here:  https://healthcoachh.samcart.com/products/cozy-homemaker-circleSupport the showLearn how to rate and review this podcast HERE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Check out my website HERE

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 Kate Van Doren, a multidisciplinary artist and registered art therapist of over 25 years, for a conversation packed with hard-won advice for artists building a sustainable creative life. Kate shares how she structures her studio practice (ritual, routine, and blocking out five hours a day, whether or not inspiration shows up), why she treats marketing and social media as a scheduled, non-negotiable task rather than something to dread, and why finding a trusted mentor matters as much as any technical skill.  Kate also opens up about her Healing Words Project, an initiative that began in 2020 during protests against femicide in Mexico and has since grown into a global collaboration with over 2,000 women and gender-expansive participants, each choosing their own words, images, and stories to reclaim their narrative.  She also explains how self-care, energy, and creative output are directly connected. It's part studio-practice playbook, part meditation on why showing up, even imperfectly, is the whole game. Finally, Kate tells us about her upcoming show at the James Baird Gallery in Pouch Cove, as well as a TED Talk on healing she has coming up in January.Kate's FASO sites:katevandoren.com/healingwordsproject.com/Healing Words Virtual Exhibit:https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=KqjMZCxyYzcKate's Substack:https://katevandoren.substack.com/Kate's Social Media:instagram.com/katevandoren_art/facebook.com/Katevandorenart/instagram.com/healingwordsproject/facebook.com/Eldiasinmujeres/Kate's Youtube:youtube.com/@katevandorenArt

Send us Fan MailA boundary can sound like rejection, but we've discovered that it can also be an act of trust. In this episode, we take what we've learned about boundaries in Spirit-led eating and expand it into everyday life—our time, attention, relationships, rest, productivity, conversations, and even the places we turn for comfort when we're stressed or afraid. We talk honestly about common boundary traps, including using boundaries to avoid difficult conversations, trying to control other people, or believing that perfect boundaries will protect us from ever being hurt or disappointed. Grounding the conversation in Scripture and Jesus' example, we explore how healthy boundaries can create space for life to flourish and how Sabbath reminds us that we were never meant to live at the mercy of endless demands.We also get practical, asking two questions from 1 Corinthians 6:12: Is this beneficial, and is this beginning to master me? We apply those questions to social media, diet culture content, and the emotional “fruit” left behind by what we consume. Christina shares candidly about what breast cancer treatment, fear, and online content revealed about what she was taking in, while Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to guard our hearts. We also offer practical ways to step away from body and diet conversations—and an internal boundary for responding to cruel self-talk with truth and compassion. Ultimately, boundaries aren't about controlling life or avoiding discomfort; they're about learning to trust God enough to choose what helps us live and love well.If this encourages you, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review. What boundary would be a holy yes to peace for you?Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Nathan speaks with Guild engineers Michael Waring (Bromley Energy) and Liam Knowles (The Heating People) about the daily realities of working on the tools in modern heating engineering. They move past surface-level talk to explore what it actually takes to run and grow a high-standard heating business today. Key discussion points include:The Recruitment Struggle: Why finding installers with the right work ethic, care, and attitude matters far more than baseline qualifications. Managing the Workload: How elite installers balance surveys, admin, and on-site labor using 30-minute triage calls and AI phone receptionists.MCS & Accreditation Realities: Navigating certification schemes, paperwork, and quality management systems as an established installer. Evolving Skills & Tech: Moving from gas boilers to heat pumps and air-to-air systems, tackling product shortages, and managing post-installation handovers. The Future of Training: Rethinking traditional college apprenticeships, on-the-job learning, and where manufacturer support needs to step up. An authentic look into the modern heating trade directly from those doing the work every day. Support the showLearn more about heat pump heating by followingNathan on Linkedin, Twitter and BlueSky

Send us Fan MailWhen You Don't Feel Like Doing Anything: Do You Need Motivation—or Do You Need Rest?Have you ever had one of those days when you just don't want to do anything—but you also don't want to do nothing?That was me today. I had things I wanted to accomplish, I knew I should exercise, and I wanted to feel motivated… but I just couldn't seem to get myself going. Eventually, I decided to lie down, slept for two hours, and woke up feeling so much better.It made me wonder: how often do we assume we need more discipline when what we actually need is rest?In this episode of Nourished Connections, I'm talking about the difference between being unmotivated, overwhelmed, and genuinely tired. We'll talk about why rest is an important part of homemaking, why you don't have to earn your rest, and how to recognize when you need to push yourself a little—and when you need to give yourself permission to stop.Because good homemaking isn't about squeezing the maximum amount of productivity out of every day. It's about wisely caring for your home, your family, your time, your energy—and yourself.If you'd like more encouragement and practical ideas for creating a cozy, intentional home, I'd love to have you join my Cozy Homemaker Circle on Facebook. It's a community for women who want to grow in homemaking, simplify home life, and find more joy and purpose in the everyday.Join the Cozy Homemaker Circle here: https://healthcoachh.samcart.com/products/cozy-homemaker-circleSupport the showLearn how to rate and review this podcast HERE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Check out my website HERE

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--Most artists don't plan to teach. They plan to paint. To show. To sell. Teaching comes later; sometimes out of necessity, sometimes out of desperation, and sometimes almost by accident. But here's what every artist in today's episode will tell you: once they started, something unexpected happened. Teaching didn't just pay the bills. It changed them.Today we're talking about the studio that pays for itself: the teaching side of an artist's career that rarely gets discussed openly. How do you start? When are you ready? How does it actually make you money? And what does it give back that has nothing to do with money at all?Six artists. Six different paths into the classroom. All of them still painting, still teaching, and still surprised by what one has done for the other.Episodes mentioned:77 Aaron Westerberg104 Thomas Schaller116 Liz Haywood-Sullivan159 Barbara Jaenicke174 Matthew James Collins179 Tanner Steed

Send us Fan MailDiet culture can make eating feel like a courtroom, where every bite seems to prove whether we're “good” or “bad.” We want something different. In this episode, we share a grace-filled approach to eating boundaries that doesn't turn food into another diet plan or spiritual performance. We explore a simple, body-honoring rhythm: hunger opens the meal, and the peaceful place of “just enough” closes it. Along the way, we unpack the five intentions of Spirit-led eating in five memorable words: wait, welcome, choose, attend, stop. We talk about what each one looks like in real life—from waiting for hunger without watching the clock, to welcoming God into an ordinary meal, choosing food that delights and supports us, attending to the moment without demanding perfection, and stopping from a place of care rather than fear.We also address the questions that can make this approach feel complicated. Is listening to hunger and fullness really spiritual, or are we simply following our bodies? What happens when hunger cues have been muted by years of dieting, stress, recovery needs, health challenges, or GLP-1 medications? And what do we do when we eat without hunger or go beyond “just enough”? Our answer is not shame—it's curiosity, grace, and a willingness to look and learn with the Lord. We can return to Him in the very next moment, without condemnation, and keep practicing freedom one meal at a time.If you want Christian encouragement, mindful eating tools, and a practical path outside of diet rules, press play. Subscribe, share this with a friend who feels stuck, and leave a review, so more listeners can find Revelation Within on the Go. Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Welcome to Season 6 of the Pass the Baton podcast! As a new school year begins, Kathryn and Theresa kick off the season by looking beyond lesson plans, classroom setup, and first-day logistics to explore the invisible decisions that shape the entire year. Through five reflective questions, they discuss what teachers can truly control, what students should own, how classroom routines communicate trust, when compliance is necessary (and when it isn't), and which traditions are worth keeping—or reimagining. Together, they challenge listeners to create learning environments that prioritize student ownership, creativity, and meaningful engagement from day one.Rather than offering another back-to-school checklist, this conversation encourages educators to begin the year with intentionality. Kathryn and Theresa share practical examples from their own classrooms while reminding listeners that small mindset shifts can have a lasting impact on students' confidence and growth. The episode concludes with a simple intentions exercise, inviting teachers to reflect on what they want students to leave their classroom believing, what they will stop doing this year, and what they want students to truly own as learners.Join the Back-to-School Challenge! Check out the Coffee Club back-to-school sale - good through August 31, 2026. A note from our Sponsor:You Love Teaching. But Is the Job Taking Too Much From You?Nobody becomes a music educator because they want to spend their evenings answering emails, worrying about budgets, planning fundraisers, organizing trips, or lying awake thinking about everything they didn't get done.We do it because we love changing students' lives.But somewhere along the way, many of us begin sacrificing our own health, relationships, and well-being in the process. We convince ourselves that's just part of the job.It doesn't have to be.I'm Lesley Moffat, host of the Band Director Boot Camp podcast, and after years of burnout that seriously impacted my own health, I discovered there was a better way. That's why I wrote I Love My Job, But It's Killing Me, a practical guide to helping educators reclaim their time, protect their well-being, and continue doing the work they love without sacrificing themselves.I'd love to send you a free copy.Visit mpowerededucator.com/freebook and take the first step toward amplifying your impact, not your workload.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

Skippers jump to 37:58 Announcing the grand return of The Scripturient Society! Ash and Karissa are back at it—this time diving even deeper into dialogue. We'll explore why dialogue can either pull readers in or send them out the back door, starting with pet peeves they can't ignore. Then they'll break down practical, real-world techniques for writing dialogue that feels authentic, dynamic, and emotionally grounded—along with a few more pet peeves along the way.Support the showLearn more about the society and explore Story Sirens Studio's writing retreats for women at https://storysirensstudio.com/retreatsDon't forget to visit our writing group on Facebook to tell us about what you've been working on!Find us on social media @thescripturientsocietySupport the pod and work out your writing muscles with this book of fantasy writing prompts from Story Sirens Studio.Looking for a laugh? Visit our sister podcast That Pretentious Book Club!

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 290 of Nourished Connections, I'm talking about something nearly every family experiences at some point: seasons when money feels tighter and we have to make some adjustments.Life has a way of moving through seasons of plenty and seasons where we need to be more careful, resourceful, and intentional. In this episode, I'm sharing practical ways to save money, reduce unnecessary spending, stretch your grocery budget, use what you already have, and make your home work harder for your family.We'll also talk about why homemaking skills are financial skills, how to avoid comparison, why knowing your actual numbers matters, and how to prepare during the good seasons so the harder ones do not feel quite so overwhelming.This episode is not about living in fear or deprivation. It is about learning to be a wise steward of what you have and creating a home that can adapt, endure, and still feel nourishing even when you have to tighten the belt.And if you'd like more encouragement, practical homemaking ideas, and a community of women working toward the same things, I'd love to have you join my Cozy Homemaker Circle on Facebook.Join the membership here: https://healthcoachh.samcart.com/products/cozy-homemaker-circleSupport the showLearn how to rate and review this podcast HERE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Check out my website HERE

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 Robert Goldman an American painter with over 50 years of experience, known for his vibrant, design-conscious canyon and landscape works, and his deep roots in plein air and illustration. He shares his journey as an artist, shaped early by a supportive, art-filled family and a lifelong commitment to drawing and painting. He explains how studying illustration, commercial art, and life drawing, along with influential teachers and peers, gave him the technical foundation to later develop his distinctive, color-rich canyon landscapes. Robert emphasizes the importance of critique and community, describing how feedback from his brother, his wife, and fellow painters keeps his work honest and evolving. In terms of process, he advises artists to start carefully from reference, establish strong values, and then gradually let instinct and the subconscious take over so the painting can depart from mere copying. As practical career guidance, he stresses discipline—“showing up” like a regular job, taking breaks for fresh eyes, and being prepared for a long, up-and-down journey that may require side income while you build your art life. His core piece of advice is that even if you can't always “make a living” from art, you can “make a life” with it—by staying dedicated, continually learning, and remaining open to opportunities, community, and change. Finally, Robert tells us about his participation with the Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival and The Legacy Gallery Holiday Small Works Show. Robert's FASO site:robertgoldmanfineart.com/Robert's Social Media:instagram.com/robertgoldmanfineart/Learn from Robert on Mastrius!mentors.mastrius.com/user/494/RobertGoldman/profile

Send us Fan MailGrace can feel like something meant for everyone else but not for us. If you've ever looked at your eating, your body, or your struggles with self-control and wondered what is wrong with you, we want to begin where Scripture begins—with who God says He is. Together, we explore Exodus 34 and Psalm 103, building a picture of God's mercy, compassion, patience, steadfast love, and forgiveness. When we understand His character, we can bring Him our food struggles, shame, and fears with confidence instead of hiding.We also unpack Titus 2 and discover that grace is more than forgiveness—it teaches us how to live. We talk about the difference between condemnation and the Holy Spirit's loving conviction, why healthy boundaries are an expression of God's kindness, and how simple practices like praise and thanksgiving can renew our minds and help us move forward one choice at a time. If you've felt stuck or distant from God, this conversation offers hope that His grace is still at work in you.If this brings relief, subscribe, share the episode with a friend who needs grace today, and leave a review so more listeners can find faith-based freedom with food and body image.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Send us Fan MailJulie Barrett is joined by Ben Gillenwater — The Family IT Guy, a cybersecurity expert with 30+ years of experience building and securing large‑scale systems. Ben has become one of the most trusted voices helping parents understand what's really happening behind the scenes of kids' technology, apps, and devices.In this interview, we dig into the truth behind today's “child safety” laws — including the App Store Accountability Act, KOSA, and the growing wave of age‑verification mandates sweeping the country. These policies claim to protect kids, but Ben explains why they actually create massive data‑collection systems, expand surveillance, and give Big Tech and government unprecedented control over digital identity.We cover:Ben's background in cybersecurity and why he started The Family IT GuyHow “kid‑safe” apps still expose children to harmful contentWhy age verification = identity verification = surveillanceThe hidden risks inside the App Store Accountability ActHow KOSA incentivizes platforms to over‑collect data and over‑restrict speechWhy these laws don't stop kids from accessing harmful contentWhat parents can do TODAY to protect their kids without relying on Big Tech or governmentPractical device setups, routines, and digital literacy strategies that actually workIf you're a parent, policymaker, or anyone concerned about privacy, digital rights, or child safety, this conversation is essential.Check out Ben's website and follow him on socials: https://www.familyitguy.com/

A mathematician sets out to participate in the study of evolution... and ends up engaging in some fascinating research about social cooperation and the queerness of evolution!    In this episode, Sara Jolena sits down with her old college friend Ben Allen, a mathematician whose work models how cooperation evolves — from iron-sharing bacteria to communal-nesting birds. They consider what this research might illuminate about cooperation in human communities. They then turn towards some of Ben's current research on queerness in evolution. Same-sex behavior has now been documented in more than 1,500 species... and it just keeps getting more interesting! Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 — Intro: welcome to ReMembering and ReEnchanting01:05 — Meet Ben Allen: mathematician, old friend, and a researcher on evolution 02:56 — From pure math to evolutionary biology: how Ben's path unfolded04:26 — Why organisms cooperate — and why "survival of the fittest" is an incomplete story06:27 — The bacteria that share iron with their neighbors08:18 — Modeling evolution mathematically: networks, neighbors, and cooperation09:13 — From microbes to mammals: what changes (and what doesn't) when culture enters the picture11:03 — Local connection as a strategy for large-scale engagement (including activism)12:52 — Other paths to cooperation: kin selection, reciprocity, and reputation14:26 — What evolution actually means: reproduction, inheritance, and mutation16:53 — A parallel to religious traditions: continuity and change in tension17:42 — What "reproduction" really means across the tree of life (sexual, asexual, horizontal gene transfer)19:37 — What biologists actually mean by "male" and "female" — and why the definition breaks down23:04 — Evolution "finds a way": clonal fish, sex-changing clownfish, and the limits of a human template25:45 — Sex beyond reproduction: play, pleasure, and social bonding across species26:43 — The 2019 paper reframing same-sex behavior in animals31:28 — Ben's current research: could early marine life not even "see" sex at all?33:15 — Deep-sea squid, imperfect filtering, and why indiscriminate mating can be an evolutionary advantage36:37 — Two evolutionary strategies: cost of mating vs. population density38:36 — Connection, yearning, and sociability across species41:10 — Individual variation: why generalizing about any species misses the truth42:16 — "A very queer evolutionary story"43:20 — Darwin's Victorian assumptions that we are still unlearning44:40 — The perspective of the scientist shifts the questions and analysis that the scientist does. We need many, many different perspectives for these big complex questions! 45:31 — Situated knowledge, Donna Haraway, and the case for multiple vantage points46:23 — Closing reflections and thanksBen Allen is a Professor of Mathematics at Emmanuel College, Boston, MA. Their research focuses on mathematical modeling of evolution—in particular the evolution of social (other-directed) behavior. Their work has appeared in Nature, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and The Atlantic. Send 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 MailMotion Orthopedics provides services for injured construction workers across Missouri as described by Wynnette Sherrill, Occupational Therapist and Business Development for Dr. Nathan Mall.Support the showLearn more at www.agcmo.orgPlease share our podcast with anyone interested in the construction industry!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Nourished Connections, I'm sharing what running a neighborhood farmstand has taught me about homemaking.At first glance, baking bread, stocking shelves, setting out signs, and welcoming customers may seem very different from caring for a home. But I've realized they require many of the same things: preparation, consistency, flexibility, creativity, and a willingness to keep showing up—even when much of the work goes unnoticed.I'll share lessons I've learned about creating a welcoming space, working with different seasons, choosing what matters most, building trust through consistency, and recognizing the value of the work that happens behind the scenes.We'll also talk about why a nourishing home does not require perfection, why we cannot do everything at once, and why the well-being of the homemaker matters just as much as the needs of the household.My little farmstand has reminded me that small acts of care, repeated over time, can grow into something deeply meaningful—both in our neighborhoods and within our homes.Join the "Cozy Homemaker Circle" - My monthly membership that will help you become accountable to creating a beautiful space for your family  https://healthcoachh.samcart.com/products/cozy-homemaker-circleSupport the showLearn how to rate and review this podcast HERE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Check out my website HERE

Send us Fan MailIn this final episode of our Loud Longings, Holy God series, we bring everything back to the truth we've been discovering together: our deepest longings were always meant to lead us to Jesus. We talk about why cravings, emotional eating, scrolling, shopping, striving, and the search for approval aren't random—they often reveal a deeper desire for lasting comfort, peace, and connection with God. Reflecting on Psalm 73, we explore how even the best things in life can never fully satisfy, while God alone becomes the portion that never fades.We also look at Jesus' invitation throughout the Gospels and His prayer in John 17, where eternal life is described as knowing God personally. For those who struggle to sense God's nearness, we offer practical encouragement for renewing your mind with truth and cultivating awareness of His presence throughout the day. We close the series with a simple practice: pause and ask, "Lord, where are You right now?" Our prayer is that this conversation helps you move beyond temporary comforts and discover the lasting hope, peace, and relationship that can only be found by abiding in Christ.If you are ready to trade counterfeit comforts for real comfort, press play, share this with a friend who feels stuck, and leave a review so more people can find it. What longing feels most present in your life right now?Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Agriculture has never been more visible. As social media gives consumers unprecedented access to life on the farm and ranch, producers have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to share their stories with authenticity and transparency.In this episode, we sit down with Tucker Brown, a rancher from Throckmorton, Texas, who has built a following of more than 211,000 people on Instagram by documenting the day-to-day realities of his family's multi-generational ranch. His passion for educating consumers has led to opportunities to speak at NCBA CattleCon and attend events at the White House, all while continuing to steward his family's ranching legacy.Tucker shares how he balances tradition with innovation through sound business decisions, social media, and advocacy for the beef industry. We also discuss the challenges facing ranchers today, from changing markets, labor shortages, and new technology to the ongoing loss of working lands, and why it's more important than ever for producers to tell agriculture's story, combat misinformation, and build consumer trust in the people and practices behind the food they produce.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 Best Of episode, we revisit our conversation with Australian composer and educator Jodie Blackshaw. A self-described "composing first educator," Jodie shares how her background in composition, teaching, and Orff-Schulwerk has shaped her belief that all students should have opportunities to create, explore, and think like composers. Her student-centered approach challenges traditional ensemble models by placing creativity, ownership, and musical decision-making at the heart of learning.Throughout the conversation, Jodie discusses the importance of scaffolding creative experiences, building safe environments where students feel comfortable taking risks, and helping young musicians develop both independence and self-discipline. Whether you teach band, choir, orchestra, or general music, this episode offers practical ideas for empowering students and creating classrooms where learning grows through curiosity, experimentation, and creativity.Connect with Jodie and Learn More: Website: Jodie BlackshawTeaching Performance Through CompositionRhythm and Pitch Pack #1Support 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--Every artist knows the romanticized version of the life of the artist: the gallery shows, the canvas, the hours of creation. But the artists who actually make it will tell you something different. They'll tell you about the days when they didn't feel like showing up. The months without sales. The phone calls they had to turn down. The routines they built not because they were inspired, but because inspiration alone was never going to be enough.Today's episode is about the one thing that quietly separates working artists from wishing artists: discipline. Because it was never about talent. Not luck. Not even passion, even though that helps. Discipline. We've pulled together some of the most honest moments from past guests on what it actually looks and feels like to build a creative life from the ground up and keep it standing in the long run.Episodes Mentioned:126 Scott Tallman Powers137 Chris Krupinski 139 Jeff Legg167 Stephanie Marzella175 Emma Kalff184 Jennifer Balkan

Send us Fan MailIn part 8 of our Loud Longings, Holy God series, we explore the difference between chasing quick relief and receiving the lasting comfort God offers. Together, we talk about why we often reach for food, scrolling, overspending, busyness, or other coping mechanisms when life feels overwhelming, and why those cravings may actually be pointing to deeper needs. Looking at 2 Corinthians 1, Psalm 23, and Matthew 11, we're reminded that God doesn't ask us to stop needing comfort—He invites us to find it in His presence.We also reflect on Elijah's exhaustion, the assurance of being fully known in Psalm 139, and the Holy Spirit's role as our Comforter and Helper. Rather than offering instant escape, God meets us with His presence, peace, and strength in the middle of our struggles. We share practical ways to receive His comfort through prayer, Scripture, worship, trusted community, and renewing our minds with the simple question, "Lord, what is true right now?" If you're weary from trying to numb the ache, we hope this conversation encourages you to abide in the comfort only God can provide.Subscribe so you don't miss the final part of this series, share this with someone who's carrying a lot, and leave a review to help more listeners find hope.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 288 of Nourished Connections, I'm returning to the podcast with a fresh vision for what homemaking can look like in today's world.To me, homemaking is about so much more than cleaning, cooking, or keeping a beautiful house. It is the intentional work of creating a home where the people we love feel safe, supported, connected, capable, and cared for.In this episode, I'm sharing why I'm coming back to podcasting, how my understanding of homemaking has grown, and what you can expect from this new season of Nourished Connections. We'll be talking about practical homemaking, family relationships, faith, cooking, motherhood, hospitality, teaching children important life skills, and finding purpose in the everyday work of home.This is not about becoming the perfect homemaker. It is about creating a meaningful home and a life that nourishes both you and the people you love.Support the showLearn how to rate and review this podcast HERE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Check out my website HERE

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

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I give a brief run down of what is currently happening in the sector. I discuss the recent Installer Show and how the Guild of Master Heat Engineers is attracting lots of attention and how many of the engineers are now offering Air to Air systems to their customers.  I also take a look at the competence person schemes (CPS) and the online boiler ordering business models. I then take a bit of a deep dive into the research around online assessment. Could we be jumping out of the frying pan into the fire?   Support the showLearn more about heat pump heating by followingNathan on Linkedin, Twitter and BlueSky

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

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?