Podcasts about Slavic

In 2021, Ukraine celebrates its thirty-year independence anniversary. During this relatively short period of time—when considered in historical terms—Ukraine underwent a number of drastic changes that have so far shaped the country's domestic and international environments. From “the Ukraine” to Ukraine: A Contemporary History, 1991-2021 (Ibidem Press, 2021), edited by Georgiy Kasianov, Matthew Rojansky, and Mykhailo Minakov, guides its readers through the labyrinthine developments that provide a wide spectrum of views and approaches that help receive a better understanding of the contemporary history of Ukraine. While detailing how independent Ukraine was taking shape locally, the editors and contributors of the volume simultaneously position Ukraine in the international environment that arouse after the fall of the USSR. Ukraine is thus inscribed into the international political map, which further complicates and advances the surveys presented in the volume. After the collapse of the USSR, the country faced a number of challenges: in addition to learning how to construct and narrate its own history, the new independent state also had to find a way to present itself to the global community. From “the Ukraine” to Ukraine outlines trajectories that illustrate a gradual process of the country's political awareness, ambitions, and maturity. Thirty years may seem like an inconsiderable amount of time for a new independent state. The material presented in the book proves otherwise. In a concise and yet acute way, the contributors touch upon the most challenging and sensitive issues which have shaped the recent history of Ukraine: ranging from the enthusiastic support of independence to the current Russian-Ukrainian war, the volume constructs a multilayered historical scene which at the same time invites further surveys and elaborations. Nataliya Shpylova-Saeed is a PhD student in the Department of Slavic and East European Languages and Cultures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

At the turn of the twentieth century, depictions of the colonized world were prevalent throughout the German metropole. Tobacco advertisements catered to the erotic gaze of imperial enthusiasts with images of Ovaherero girls, and youth magazines allowed children to escape into "exotic domains" where their imaginations could wander freely. While racist beliefs framed such narratives, the abundance of colonial imaginaries nevertheless compelled German citizens and settlers to contemplate the world beyond Europe as a part of their daily lives. An Imperial Homeland: Forging German Identity in Southwest Africa (Pennsylvania State University Press, 2022) reorients our understanding of the relationship between imperial Germany and its empire in Southwest Africa (present-day Namibia). Colonialism had an especially significant effect on shared interpretations of the Heimat (home/homeland) ideal, a historically elusive perception that conveyed among Germans a sense of place through national peculiarities and local landmarks. Focusing on colonial encounters that took place between 1842 and 1915, Adam A. Blackler reveals how Africans confronted foreign rule and altered German national identity. As Blackler shows, once the façade of imperial fantasy gave way to colonial reality, German metropolitans and white settlers increasingly sought to fortify their presence in Africa using juridical and physical acts of violence, culminating in the first genocide of the twentieth century. Grounded in extensive archival research, An Imperial Homeland enriches our understanding of German identity, allowing us to see how a distant colony with diverse ecologies, peoples, and social dynamics grew into an extension of German memory and tradition. It will be of interest to German Studies scholars, particularly those interested in colonial Africa. Dr. Adam A. Blackler is an assistant professor of history at the University of Wyoming. He is a historian of modern Germany and southern Africa, whose research emphasizes the transnational dimensions of imperial occupation and settler-colonial violence in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Steven Seegel is Professor of Slavic and Eurasian Studies at The University of Texas at Austin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In 2021, Ukraine celebrates its thirty-year independence anniversary. During this relatively short period of time—when considered in historical terms—Ukraine underwent a number of drastic changes that have so far shaped the country's domestic and international environments. From “the Ukraine” to Ukraine: A Contemporary History, 1991-2021 (Ibidem Press, 2021), edited by Georgiy Kasianov, Matthew Rojansky, and Mykhailo Minakov, guides its readers through the labyrinthine developments that provide a wide spectrum of views and approaches that help receive a better understanding of the contemporary history of Ukraine. While detailing how independent Ukraine was taking shape locally, the editors and contributors of the volume simultaneously position Ukraine in the international environment that arouse after the fall of the USSR. Ukraine is thus inscribed into the international political map, which further complicates and advances the surveys presented in the volume. After the collapse of the USSR, the country faced a number of challenges: in addition to learning how to construct and narrate its own history, the new independent state also had to find a way to present itself to the global community. From “the Ukraine” to Ukraine outlines trajectories that illustrate a gradual process of the country's political awareness, ambitions, and maturity. Thirty years may seem like an inconsiderable amount of time for a new independent state. The material presented in the book proves otherwise. In a concise and yet acute way, the contributors touch upon the most challenging and sensitive issues which have shaped the recent history of Ukraine: ranging from the enthusiastic support of independence to the current Russian-Ukrainian war, the volume constructs a multilayered historical scene which at the same time invites further surveys and elaborations. Nataliya Shpylova-Saeed is a PhD student in the Department of Slavic and East European Languages and Cultures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

At the turn of the twentieth century, depictions of the colonized world were prevalent throughout the German metropole. Tobacco advertisements catered to the erotic gaze of imperial enthusiasts with images of Ovaherero girls, and youth magazines allowed children to escape into "exotic domains" where their imaginations could wander freely. While racist beliefs framed such narratives, the abundance of colonial imaginaries nevertheless compelled German citizens and settlers to contemplate the world beyond Europe as a part of their daily lives. An Imperial Homeland: Forging German Identity in Southwest Africa (Pennsylvania State University Press, 2022) reorients our understanding of the relationship between imperial Germany and its empire in Southwest Africa (present-day Namibia). Colonialism had an especially significant effect on shared interpretations of the Heimat (home/homeland) ideal, a historically elusive perception that conveyed among Germans a sense of place through national peculiarities and local landmarks. Focusing on colonial encounters that took place between 1842 and 1915, Adam A. Blackler reveals how Africans confronted foreign rule and altered German national identity. As Blackler shows, once the façade of imperial fantasy gave way to colonial reality, German metropolitans and white settlers increasingly sought to fortify their presence in Africa using juridical and physical acts of violence, culminating in the first genocide of the twentieth century. Grounded in extensive archival research, An Imperial Homeland enriches our understanding of German identity, allowing us to see how a distant colony with diverse ecologies, peoples, and social dynamics grew into an extension of German memory and tradition. It will be of interest to German Studies scholars, particularly those interested in colonial Africa. Dr. Adam A. Blackler is an assistant professor of history at the University of Wyoming. He is a historian of modern Germany and southern Africa, whose research emphasizes the transnational dimensions of imperial occupation and settler-colonial violence in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Steven Seegel is Professor of Slavic and Eurasian Studies at The University of Texas at Austin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-studies

At the turn of the twentieth century, depictions of the colonized world were prevalent throughout the German metropole. Tobacco advertisements catered to the erotic gaze of imperial enthusiasts with images of Ovaherero girls, and youth magazines allowed children to escape into "exotic domains" where their imaginations could wander freely. While racist beliefs framed such narratives, the abundance of colonial imaginaries nevertheless compelled German citizens and settlers to contemplate the world beyond Europe as a part of their daily lives. An Imperial Homeland: Forging German Identity in Southwest Africa (Pennsylvania State University Press, 2022) reorients our understanding of the relationship between imperial Germany and its empire in Southwest Africa (present-day Namibia). Colonialism had an especially significant effect on shared interpretations of the Heimat (home/homeland) ideal, a historically elusive perception that conveyed among Germans a sense of place through national peculiarities and local landmarks. Focusing on colonial encounters that took place between 1842 and 1915, Adam A. Blackler reveals how Africans confronted foreign rule and altered German national identity. As Blackler shows, once the façade of imperial fantasy gave way to colonial reality, German metropolitans and white settlers increasingly sought to fortify their presence in Africa using juridical and physical acts of violence, culminating in the first genocide of the twentieth century. Grounded in extensive archival research, An Imperial Homeland enriches our understanding of German identity, allowing us to see how a distant colony with diverse ecologies, peoples, and social dynamics grew into an extension of German memory and tradition. It will be of interest to German Studies scholars, particularly those interested in colonial Africa. Dr. Adam A. Blackler is an assistant professor of history at the University of Wyoming. He is a historian of modern Germany and southern Africa, whose research emphasizes the transnational dimensions of imperial occupation and settler-colonial violence in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Steven Seegel is Professor of Slavic and Eurasian Studies at The University of Texas at Austin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/genocide-studies

In 2021, Ukraine celebrates its thirty-year independence anniversary. During this relatively short period of time—when considered in historical terms—Ukraine underwent a number of drastic changes that have so far shaped the country's domestic and international environments. From “the Ukraine” to Ukraine: A Contemporary History, 1991-2021 (Ibidem Press, 2021), edited by Georgiy Kasianov, Matthew Rojansky, and Mykhailo Minakov, guides its readers through the labyrinthine developments that provide a wide spectrum of views and approaches that help receive a better understanding of the contemporary history of Ukraine. While detailing how independent Ukraine was taking shape locally, the editors and contributors of the volume simultaneously position Ukraine in the international environment that arouse after the fall of the USSR. Ukraine is thus inscribed into the international political map, which further complicates and advances the surveys presented in the volume. After the collapse of the USSR, the country faced a number of challenges: in addition to learning how to construct and narrate its own history, the new independent state also had to find a way to present itself to the global community. From “the Ukraine” to Ukraine outlines trajectories that illustrate a gradual process of the country's political awareness, ambitions, and maturity. Thirty years may seem like an inconsiderable amount of time for a new independent state. The material presented in the book proves otherwise. In a concise and yet acute way, the contributors touch upon the most challenging and sensitive issues which have shaped the recent history of Ukraine: ranging from the enthusiastic support of independence to the current Russian-Ukrainian war, the volume constructs a multilayered historical scene which at the same time invites further surveys and elaborations. Nataliya Shpylova-Saeed is a PhD student in the Department of Slavic and East European Languages and Cultures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/russian-studies

Artificial intelligence has been a frequent topic on Sinica in recent years — but usually through the lens of the two countries that have produced the leading models and companies: the United States and China. We've covered generative AI, national strategies, governance frameworks, and the geopolitical implications of AI leadership.This webinar, broadcast on the morning of August 14, broadens that lens to explore how other countries — and especially Ukraine — are approaching AI in the public sector. Around the world, governments are experimenting with AI well beyond chatbots and text generation: China's “City Brain” optimizes traffic, energy use, and public safety; U.S. agencies are streamlining services and automating benefits processing; and elsewhere, smart grids, predictive infrastructure planning, and AI-enabled e-governance are reshaping public administration. These projects reveal both the promise and the complexity of bringing AI into government — along with valid concerns over privacy, fairness, and inclusiveness.We'll look at what lessons Ukraine might draw from U.S. and Chinese experiences, the opportunities and challenges of adapting these practices, and the strategic risks of sourcing AI solutions from different providers — especially in the context of Ukraine's eventual postwar reconstruction.Joining us are three distinguished guests:Dmytro Yefremov, Board Member of the Ukrainian Association of Sinologists, with deep expertise in China's political and technological strategies and Ukraine's policy landscape.Wang Guan, Chairman of Learnable.ai in China, bringing extensive experience in AI applications for public administration and education.Karman Lucero, Associate Research Scholar and Senior Fellow at Yale Law School's Paul Tsai China Center, whose work focuses on Chinese law, governance, and the regulation of emerging technologies.Thanks to the Ukrainian Platform for Contemporary China, the Ukrainian Association of Sinologists, and the Center for Slavic, Eurasian, and East European Studies at the University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill for organizing and sponsoring today's event. Special thanks to Vita Golod for putting together the panel and inviting me to moderate.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join me for a conversation with four fantastic panelists about nuclear safety and security issues brought on by Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and more broadly on the state of nuclear security globally during this era of dramatic change.This program was made possible by the Ukrainian Platform for Contemporary China and the Center for Slavic, Eurasian, and East European Studies at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.Nickolas Roth is Senior Director for Nuclear Materials Security at the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI). Nickolas works at the intersection of arms control, risk reduction, and institutional resilience, and previously directed nuclear security work at the Stimson Center and contributed to Harvard's Project on Managing the Atom.Mariana Budjeryn is a Senior Research Associate with Managing the Atom at Harvard's Belfer Center and author of Inheriting the Bomb, a definitive study of Ukraine's post-Soviet disarmament and the limits of the Budapest Memorandum. Her scholarship grounds today's debates about guarantees, coercion, and nuclear restraint.Pan Yanliang is a Research Associate at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS). He studies the Russian and Chinese nuclear industries and the nuclear fuel cycle, and works on CNS engagement with Chinese counterparts—giving him a distinctive cross-regional vantage.Lily Wojtowicz is a Research Fellow at the Hertie School (Berlin) and a USIP–Minerva Peace & Security Scholar, whose work focuses on extended deterrence credibility, European security, and alliance adaptation under great-power rivalry.5:19 - The Gap Between Coercive Rhetoric and First-use Thresholds11:26 - The Implication of Ukraine's allies regarding weapons 17:26 - Golden Dome21:30 - China's Position on Nuclear Weapons29:25 - How Belarus Altered European Debates 31:13 - Civilian Nuclear Power 38:32 - North Korea's Support for Russia40:59 - Beijing on NATO and Asian Security43:09 - Europe's Reaction to Nuclear Risk45:44 - Nuclear Risk in the Russia-Ukraine War52:56 - Trump's Impact on Kremlin Nuclear Thinking1:01:52 - US-China Nuclear Relations1:04:49 - Ukraine's Nuclear DisarmamentSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Spoiler alert: the fix is Free Palestine for the Palestinian folk tale of Speak Bird, Speak Again told by Abbie in this episode. Kelsey takes things to a lighter (right?) place with the Slavic tale of Baba Yaga and the Brave Youth.

From the dad who only said “I love you” once, to growing up in a culture where therapy doesn't exist — this episode is packed with raw stories, dark humor, and the kind of brutal honesty you can't make up.I'm joined by comedian Matthew Puzhitsky as we dive into what it's really like being raised in a Slavic immigrant household, how comedy becomes a survival tool, and why sometimes the darkest moments make for the loudest laughs.

Did you know that roughly a million people in Russia today make their living as some kind of wizard, witch, or folk healer? And that some of the most popular TV programs in Russia in the '90s were presentations of psychic healers and self-proclaimed sorcerers? Russians have a long history of believing in magic, with old Slavic spiritual beliefs surviving Russia's past Christian takeover thanks to Russia's system of dual beliefs. Merch and more: www.badmagicproductions.com Timesuck Discord! https://discord.gg/tqzH89vWant to join the Cult of the Curious PrivateFacebook Group? Go directly to Facebook and search for "Cult of the Curious" to locate whatever happens to be our most current page :)For all merch-related questions/problems: store@badmagicproductions.com (copy and paste)Please rate and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and elsewhere and follow the suck on social media!! @timesuckpodcast on IG and http://www.facebook.com/timesuckpodcastWanna become a Space Lizard? Click here: https://www.patreon.com/timesuckpodcast.Sign up through Patreon, and for $5 a month, you get access to the entire Secret Suck catalog (295 episodes) PLUS the entire catalog of Timesuck, AD FREE. You'll also get 20% off of all regular Timesuck merch PLUS access to exclusive Space Lizard merch.

On today's episode we discuss how international and regional communist parties and actors influenced the political development of the Greek Communist Party between 1918-1956, with a special focus on the Soviet Union and the Balkans. Our guest Nikos Marantzidis published his book Under Stalin's Shadow: A Global History of Greek Communism in 2023.Book description:Under Stalin's Shadow examines the history of the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) from 1918 to 1956, showing how closely national Communism was related to international developments. The history of the KKE reveals the role of Moscow in the various Communist parties of Southeastern Europe, as Nikos Marantzidis shows that Communism's international institutions (Moscow Center, Comintern, Balkan Communist Federation, Cominform, and sister parties in the Balkans) were not merely external factors influencing orientation and policy choices.Based on research from published and unpublished archival documents located in Greece, Russia, Eastern and Western Europe, and the Balkan countries, Under Stalin's Shadow traces the KKE movement's interactions with fraternal parties in neighboring states and with their acknowledged supreme mentors in Stalin's Soviet Russia. Marantzidis reveals how, because the boundaries between the national and international in the Communist world were not clearly drawn, international institutions, geopolitical soviet interests, and sister parties' strategies shaped in fundamental ways the KKE's leadership, its character and decision making as a party, and the way of life of its followers over the years.Nikos Marantzidis is Professor of Political Science in the Balkan, Slavic, and Oriental Studies Department at the University of Macedonia and Visiting Professor at Charles University in Prague. He has published extensively on Greek and European Communism and Greek civil war history

This Day in Legal History: Expansion of US House of RepresentativesOn August 8, 1911, President William Howard Taft signed into law a measure that permanently expanded the size of the U.S. House of Representatives from 391 to 433 members. This change followed the 1910 census, which revealed significant population growth and shifts in where Americans lived. Under the Constitution, House seats are apportioned among the states according to population, and each decade's census can lead to changes in representation. Prior to 1911, Congress often responded to new census data by simply adding seats rather than redistributing them among states. The 1911 legislation reflected both that tradition and the political realities of the time, as expanding the House allowed growing states to gain representation without forcing other states to lose seats. It also set the stage for the modern size of the House—just two years later, New Mexico and Arizona joined the Union, bringing the total to 435 members. That number has remained fixed by law since 1929, despite the nation's continued population growth. The 1911 increase carried implications beyond arithmetic: more members meant more voices, more local interests, and a larger scale for legislative negotiation. It also underscored Congress's role in adapting the machinery of government to the country's evolving demographics. In many ways, the expansion reflected Progressive Era concerns with fair representation and democratic responsiveness. While debates over House size have continued into the 21st century, the 1911 law remains a pivotal moment in the chamber's institutional development. By enlarging the House, Taft and Congress preserved proportionality between population and representation, even if only temporarily.After the 1911 increase under President Taft, the size of the House stayed at 435 members following Arizona and New Mexico's statehood in 1912. The idea at the time was that future census results would continue to trigger changes, either by adding more seats or by redistributing them among the states.But after the 1920 census, Congress ran into a political deadlock. Massive population growth in cities—and significant immigration—meant that urban states stood to gain seats while rural states would lose them. Rural lawmakers, who still held considerable power, resisted any reapportionment that would diminish their influence. For nearly a decade, Congress failed to pass a new apportionment plan, effectively ignoring the 1920 census results.To end the stalemate, Congress passed the Permanent Apportionment Act of 1929. This law capped the House at 435 seats and created an automatic formula for reapportionment after each census. Instead of adding seats to reflect population growth, the formula reassigns the fixed number of seats among states. This froze the size of the House even as the U.S. population more than tripled over the next century.Critics argue that the 1929 cap dilutes individual representation—today, each representative speaks for about 760,000 constituents on average, compared to roughly 200,000 in 1911. Supporters counter that a larger House would be unwieldy and harder to manage. The debate over whether to expand the House continues, but the 1929 law has held for nearly a hundred years, making Taft's 1911 expansion the last time the chamber permanently grew in size.A fourth federal court blocked President Donald Trump's order restricting birthright citizenship, halting its enforcement nationwide. The order, issued on Trump's first day back in office, sought to deny citizenship to children born in the U.S. unless at least one parent was a citizen or lawful permanent resident. Immigrant rights groups and 22 Democratic state attorneys general challenged the policy as a violation of the Fourteenth Amendment's Citizenship Clause, which has long been interpreted to grant citizenship to nearly everyone born on U.S. soil.U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman in Maryland sided with the challengers, issuing the latest in a series of nationwide injunctions despite a recent Supreme Court ruling narrowing judges' power to block policies universally. That June decision left a key exception: courts could still halt policies nationwide in certified class actions. Advocates quickly filed two such cases, including the one before Boardman, who had previously ruled in February that Trump's interpretation of the Constitution was one “no court in the country has ever endorsed.”In July, Boardman signaled she would grant national relief once class status was approved, but waited for the Fourth Circuit to return the case after the administration's appeal was dismissed. Her new order covers all affected children born in the U.S., making it the first post–Supreme Court nationwide injunction issued via class action in the birthright fight. The case, Casa Inc. et al v. Trump, continues as part of a broader legal battle over the limits of presidential power in defining citizenship.Fourth court blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order nationwide | ReutersThe Trump administration asked the U.S. Supreme Court to lift a lower court order restricting immigration enforcement tactics in much of Southern California. The Justice Department's emergency filing seeks to overturn a ruling by U.S. District Judge Maame Frimpong, who barred federal agents from stopping or detaining individuals based solely on race, ethnicity, language, or similar factors without “reasonable suspicion” of unlawful presence. Her temporary restraining order stemmed from a proposed class action brought by Latino plaintiffs—including U.S. citizens—who alleged they were wrongly targeted, detained, or roughed up during immigration raids in Los Angeles.The plaintiffs argued these tactics violated the Fourth Amendment's protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, describing indiscriminate stops by masked, armed agents. Judge Frimpong agreed, finding the operations likely unconstitutional and blocking the use of race, ethnicity, language, workplace type, or certain locations as stand-alone reasons for suspicion. The Ninth Circuit declined to lift her order earlier this month.The challenge comes amid a major escalation in Trump's immigration enforcement push, which includes aggressive deportation targets, mass raids, and even the deployment of National Guard troops and U.S. Marines in Los Angeles—a move sharply opposed by state officials. The administration contends the restrictions hinder operations in a heavily populated region central to its immigration agenda. The Supreme Court will now decide whether to allow these limits to remain in place while the underlying constitutional challenge proceeds.Trump asks US Supreme Court to lift limits on immigration raids | ReutersMilbank announced it will pay seniority-based “special” bonuses to associates and special counsel worldwide, ranging from $6,000 to $25,000, with payments due by September 30. Milbank, of course, is among the big firms that bent to Trump's strong-arm tactics, cutting a $100 million deal and dropping diversity-based hiring rather than risk becoming his next executive-order target. The New York-founded firm used the same bonus scale last summer, signaling optimism about high activity levels through the rest of the year. Milbank, known for setting the pace in Big Law compensation, is the first major corporate firm to roll out such bonuses this summer—a move that often pressures competitors to follow suit.Special bonuses are not standard annual payouts, and last year rival firms mostly waited until year's end to match Milbank's mid-year scale, adding those amounts to their regular year-end bonuses. Milbank also led the market in November 2024 with annual bonuses up to $115,000. The firm is one of nine that reached agreements with President Trump earlier this year after his executive orders restricted certain law firms' access to federal buildings, officials, and contracting work.In a smaller but notable move, New York boutique Otterbourg recently awarded all full-time associates a $15,000 mid-year bonus, citing strong performance and contributions to the firm's success.Law firm Milbank to pay out 'special' bonuses for associates | ReutersMilbank reaches deal with Trump as divide among law firms deepens | ReutersA federal judge in North Dakota vacated the Federal Reserve's rule capping debit card “swipe fees” at 21 cents per transaction, siding with retailers who have long argued the cap is too high. The decision, which found the Fed exceeded its authority by including certain costs in the fee calculation under Regulation II, will not take effect immediately to allow time for appeal. The case was brought by Corner Post, a convenience store that claimed the Fed ignored Congress's directive to set issuer- and transaction-specific standards under the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act.Banks, backed by groups like the Bank Policy Institute, defended the cap as compliant with the law, while retailers and small business advocates supported Corner Post's challenge. This is Judge Daniel Traynor's second ruling in the dispute; he initially dismissed the case in 2022 as untimely, but the U.S. Supreme Court revived it in 2024, easing limits on challenges to older regulations. An appeal to the Eighth Circuit is expected, with the losing side likely to seek Supreme Court review. The ruling comes as the Fed separately considers lowering the cap to 14.4 cents, a proposal still pending.US judge vacates Fed's debit card 'swipe fees' rule, but pauses order for appeal | ReutersTexas-based Fintiv sued Apple in federal court, accusing the company of stealing trade secrets to develop Apple Pay. Fintiv claims the mobile wallet's core technology originated with CorFire, a company it acquired in 2014, and that Apple learned of it during 2011–2012 meetings and nondisclosure agreements intended to explore licensing. According to the complaint, Apple instead hired away CorFire employees and used the technology without permission, launching Apple Pay in 2014 and expanding it globally.Fintiv alleges Apple has run an informal racketeering operation, using Apple Pay to collect transaction fees for major banks and credit card networks, generating billions in revenue without compensating Fintiv. The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages under federal and Georgia trade secret and anti-racketeering laws, including RICO. Apple is the sole defendant and has not commented.The case follows the recent dismissal of Fintiv's related patent lawsuit against Apple in Texas, which the company plans to appeal. The new lawsuit was filed in the Northern District of Georgia, where CorFire was originally based.Lawsuit accuses Apple of stealing trade secrets to create Apple Pay | ReutersThis week's closing theme is by Antonín DvořákThis week's closing theme comes from a composer who knew how to weave folk spirit into the fabric of high art without losing either warmth or polish. Dvořák, born in 1841 in what is now the Czech Republic, grew from a village-trained violist into one of the most celebrated composers of the late 19th century. His music often married classical forms with the rhythms, turns, and dances of his homeland—an approach that made his work instantly recognizable and deeply human.His Piano Quintet No. 2 in A major, Op. 81, written in 1887, is a prime example. Dvořák had actually written an earlier piano quintet in the same key but was dissatisfied with it; rather than revise, he started fresh. The result is one of the most beloved chamber works in the repertoire. Across its four movements, the quintet blends lyrical sweep with earthy energy—romantic in scope, yet grounded in folk idiom. The opening Allegro bursts forth with an expansive theme, the piano and strings trading lines as if in animated conversation.The second movement, marked Dumka, takes its name from a Slavic song form alternating between melancholy reflection and lively dance. Here, Dvořák's gift for emotional contrast is on full display—wistful cello lines give way to playful rhythms before sinking back into introspection. The third movement is a Furiant, a fiery Czech dance bristling with syncopation and vigor, while the finale spins out buoyant melodies with an almost orchestral fullness.It is music that feels both intimate and vast, as if played in a parlor with the windows thrown open to the countryside. With this quintet, Dvořák shows how local color can speak in a universal voice—how the tunes of a homeland can travel the world without losing their soul. For our purposes, it's a reminder that endings can be celebratory, heartfelt, and just a bit homespun.Without further ado, Antonín Dvořák's Piano Quintet No. 2 in A major, Op. 81 – enjoy! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Hola! Today we are going to talk about the legendary creature Kikimora. How well do you know this interesting character? Some interesting facts and details. In this crazy story you will be listening a lot of interesting facts, learning new vocabulary and interesting words in Spanish and also you will be improving your listening skills in Spanish. I hope that you will practice your Spanish by listening to the phrases and new words that you already know and also with the ones that you do not know.You can support me and my podcast if you want:Donate with PayPal:https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/spanishwithdennisYou can buy me a cup of coffee here:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/spanishwithdennisMy Youtube channel: Spanish with Dennishttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQVuRUMQGwtzBIp1YAImQFQMy new Discord server and chat and you can already join and write to me there:https://discord.gg/HWGrnmTmyCMy new Telegram channel and you can already join and write to me or comment there:https://t.me/SpanishwithDennisJoin my Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/spanishwithdennisDonate with Boosty:https://boosty.to/spanishwithdennis/donateDonate with Donation Alerts:https://www.donationalerts.com/r/dennisespinosaSupport me by joining my podcasts supporter club on Spreaker:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/crazy-stories-in-spanish--5605778/supportDonate with Crypto currency:Bitcoin (BTC)1DioiGPAQ6yYbEgcxEFRxWm5hZJcfLG9V6USDT (ERC20)0xeb8f678c0b8d37b639579662bf653be762e60855USDT (TRC20)TXoQwsaiTGBpWVkyeigApLT8xC82rQwRCNEthereum (ETH)0xeb8f678c0b8d37b639579662bf653be762e60855Support me by joining my podcasts supporter club on Spreaker:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/slow-spanish-language--5613080/supporthttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tprs-spanish-stories--5600864/supporthttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/comprehensible-spanish-language--5595630/supporthttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/crazy-stories-in-spanish--5605778/supportIf you support me, it will motivate me to create more content for all of you. If you have any other suggestions or recommendations on what other platform you can support me and my podcasts, please let me know. You can write to me on telegram.My other podcasts you can find it on different platforms and apps:1-  Comprehensible Spanish Language Podcast2 - TPRS Spanish Stories3 - Slow Spanish LanguageI hope that you like and enjoy the episode :)

The figure of the young, tragic male poet has long dominated cultural narratives about artistic brilliance and early death. But what if poetic genius deepens, rather than fades, with age? In this talk given at the 2025 Harvard Horizons Symposium, Slavic languages and literatures PhD candidate and Harvard Horizons Scholar Alex Braslavsky explores the creative power of poets in their advanced age in her project, "Embracing Twilight: Older Women Poets and the Unfurling of Their Voices". Focusing on three radical women writers, Braslavsky examines how aging can become a source of artistic innovation, personal transformation, and visionary insight. Drawing on archival research and a deep connection to Slavic literary traditions, her work challenges dominant cultural myths of decline and illuminates the enduring power of late-life creativity.

BGI TAPPED Sometimes, I write in Lin cadences Sometimes I pass time with Jim Fallon, I write behind closed eyes and white bars, Pigeons and white doves, While I get made fun of I tried to just let bygones by bygones But I can't cause I miss my son And there's no love in the bottom of class wars And harsh poverty; there's no brotherly love And New York just don't want me here Is this your card?! No motherfucker! Oh. Goddamn. You are bad at this. I thought I was! I told you I was. You are! Now, scram. What color is your magnitude? You failed! I told you I don't know my own songs form Adam! That wasn't me? No? Crap. It's jammed. Well, throw a rock at him! THE SNIPERS throw a rock at DIPLO; unassumingly and (sort of) by complete coincidence, this rock just happens to be the CAPSULOUS ILLUMINATUS— (And he is mad.) Huh. Ohh. Shitballs. (Very mad.) Not only is he mad— which is hilarious— but as he becomes enraged, beginning to hulk out of his “zen zone” Isn't it obvious? Zen zone? What a complete douchebag. I'm so serious. V.O Tales of a superstar DJ Alice In Wonderland was in my dream last night, But she had big blonde bushy Slavic eyebrows and I just… somehow.. didn't know what to make of that. I HAVE A TALE! No, you don't actually. Sit down and shut the fuck up! BAMPHERAMPH CAMP is going splendid. *complete decapitation* —gorgeous. Meanwhile. As it turns out… I have something to tell you. PLAY COMPLICATIONS ONE MORE TIME. I FUCKING DARE YOU. DEADMAU5 has created quite possibly the very first sonic time bomb— FIRST EVER? I TOLD YOU GET OUT OF HERE. YES FIRST EVER. BEFORE: Sniffs… Pauses *Tiny Sips* *sniffs again* *squinting, dissatisfied* …I sense Deadmau5 in this Skrillex. BUTLER You would be correct. {ENTER THE MULTIVERSE} Wait. Who the fuck is Steve Duda? Bro, I told you my name was Steve! OH! Tales of a Superstar DJ I thought you were joking. I'm not joking. Where's the pancakes?! I'm out! Why is this place so clean?! Ugh! You haven't been around— or— like— Nonsense. Hey wait— last time you were imaginary. Uh, no, I wasn't. Yes, you were literally just— “In your head” Yeah! That's not a thing. What. Get over that. What. Everything is real, everything is extreme… Are you also out of OATMEAL? Almost, obviously! —ly real! Ugh! And cream of wheat? I've been— I was getting fat. THATS HOW GOOD MUSIC IS MADE. IN STORED ENERGY. I have— *bacterially is critically low* *lights flickering* *sirens wailing* *time crumbling* *phone dies* Ugh. Look. Uh— STEVE. Uh…let's just say Larry— My name is STEVE! I told you that! I imagined you differently, okay, and I thought ‘Steve' was just deadmau5 being pranky. It is! What? It's a thing! Look it up. Oh shit. The Ace. I told you that dude was sketchy! Wait, which Ace. Of Spades. Ah shit. Is this your— No! Ah? Well, wait… Wait what? Wait. A second. Wait what? …this…that is my card. Is it? Yes… *vanishes* WHAT THE— L E G E N D S Our Next Segment is called “Who wrote that joke?” So I'm wondering about— That Hindu joke in season 5 of 30 Rock “Oh my God.” “Which one? “ “I'm going to make you regret your own birth“ “Which one?” COPYRIGHT THE FESTiVAL PROJECT, INC. ™ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. [The Festival Project ™] The Complex Collective © -Ū.

BGI TAPPED Sometimes, I write in Lin cadences Sometimes I pass time with Jim Fallon, I write behind closed eyes and white bars, Pigeons and white doves, While I get made fun of I tried to just let bygones by bygones But I can't cause I miss my son And there's no love in the bottom of class wars And harsh poverty; there's no brotherly love And New York just don't want me here Is this your card?! No motherfucker! Oh. Goddamn. You are bad at this. I thought I was! I told you I was. You are! Now, scram. What color is your magnitude? You failed! I told you I don't know my own songs form Adam! That wasn't me? No? Crap. It's jammed. Well, throw a rock at him! THE SNIPERS throw a rock at DIPLO; unassumingly and (sort of) by complete coincidence, this rock just happens to be the CAPSULOUS ILLUMINATUS— (And he is mad.) Huh. Ohh. Shitballs. (Very mad.) Not only is he mad— which is hilarious— but as he becomes enraged, beginning to hulk out of his “zen zone” Isn't it obvious? Zen zone? What a complete douchebag. I'm so serious. V.O Tales of a superstar DJ Alice In Wonderland was in my dream last night, But she had big blonde bushy Slavic eyebrows and I just… somehow.. didn't know what to make of that. I HAVE A TALE! No, you don't actually. Sit down and shut the fuck up! BAMPHERAMPH CAMP is going splendid. *complete decapitation* —gorgeous. Meanwhile. As it turns out… I have something to tell you. PLAY COMPLICATIONS ONE MORE TIME. I FUCKING DARE YOU. DEADMAU5 has created quite possibly the very first sonic time bomb— FIRST EVER? I TOLD YOU GET OUT OF HERE. YES FIRST EVER. BEFORE: Sniffs… Pauses *Tiny Sips* *sniffs again* *squinting, dissatisfied* …I sense Deadmau5 in this Skrillex. BUTLER You would be correct. {ENTER THE MULTIVERSE} Wait. Who the fuck is Steve Duda? Bro, I told you my name was Steve! OH! Tales of a Superstar DJ I thought you were joking. I'm not joking. Where's the pancakes?! I'm out! Why is this place so clean?! Ugh! You haven't been around— or— like— Nonsense. Hey wait— last time you were imaginary. Uh, no, I wasn't. Yes, you were literally just— “In your head” Yeah! That's not a thing. What. Get over that. What. Everything is real, everything is extreme… Are you also out of OATMEAL? Almost, obviously! —ly real! Ugh! And cream of wheat? I've been— I was getting fat. THATS HOW GOOD MUSIC IS MADE. IN STORED ENERGY. I have— *bacterially is critically low* *lights flickering* *sirens wailing* *time crumbling* *phone dies* Ugh. Look. Uh— STEVE. Uh…let's just say Larry— My name is STEVE! I told you that! I imagined you differently, okay, and I thought ‘Steve' was just deadmau5 being pranky. It is! What? It's a thing! Look it up. Oh shit. The Ace. I told you that dude was sketchy! Wait, which Ace. Of Spades. Ah shit. Is this your— No! Ah? Well, wait… Wait what? Wait. A second. Wait what? …this…that is my card. Is it? Yes… *vanishes* WHAT THE— L E G E N D S Our Next Segment is called “Who wrote that joke?” So I'm wondering about— That Hindu joke in season 5 of 30 Rock “Oh my God.” “Which one? “ “I'm going to make you regret your own birth“ “Which one?” I know the man in the chair By his eyes And the course of the road And the cause of his numbers, I know very odd, very sure, very well— and yes, I know the strings, and the things And the force of control And the conduct, the code Yes, I know not to leave him alone And we're all full of wonder, here Of the wonder years, But where are you, dear? Cause it's four in the morning— I'm cold, and I'm lonely— I'm shocked and forgotten It's four in the morning And no, I'm still not going home. It's four in the morning And only just know have I thought Or a plate full of warmth And the touch of her fondness But all oaths, Cause I took a lover this morning Another tomorrow And on, look— I can't come home until Sunday (What? I'm building you up!) And I know I've gone soft But you know not to Dollop until I tell you I'm coming Don't you! That's a gallop; There's a Dillon Where I dare you; Did you hear ‘em? These are harems There's a villain forming A sweet informant A node oriental And no, I meant all of the foam drip on coffee It's Not Out Of Bounds until I say you will My daffodil Then I fold you into pieces With my peace It says “I'm eating you for supper” Here goes Saturday for nothing I still haven't made the cast list Don't get so far up your marker That you forgot That the stars are all going under Burning out And ownership of businesses Other than subscription payments Mortgages and high interests— Give the internet good riddance Or else get lost Like your appendix This is Kurt Sutter? No, John Carson! You think you're smart for a marker And sabertooth tiger I got no arguments besides building monuments You wanted us? Worshipped! Now all of a sudden while on earth All reincarnated at once Almost all of ye's study or praise No Gods, though you walk among us! Keep it open sesame seed buns I haven't seen you In your open No subtronics I don't bother No blue eyes Tight skin Small stomach Thin waste Paper See through Just waste Wait I'm a trash bag Non returnable No refundable Still not gonna do you harm enough If you didn't bought it Still though Awful convenience Here's my sandwhich I just backed up into a fire hydrant High as a kite But you all know I'm so much hotter and fun Than the other one— Goddamn, But at least she's funny And as long as you want me first I'll love you and her Forever. —Annie. Don't got a gun; Then I'd be gone I don't belong here I write songs for a living You know; No more home for you! No more going nowhere If you don't wear Prada Here yellow canary You're only a little pretty bird Cause if I hear you stop singing at all I know we're all done for— Run! It's a gas le— (AK) [They blow up. ] COPYRIGHT THE FESTiVAL PROJECT, INC. ™ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. [The Festival Project ™] The Complex Collective © -Ū. flash— bang Can't believe I'm lying there like Flash—bang What a mess I've got us into Flash—bang In and out of all dimensions I can barely pay attention I was standing in my kitchen Then it's straight to intermission (Something like a nasa mission) Flash—bang I think this thing is dangerous I can't sing I'm tone deaf as Mr. Kimmel Flash— bang Off like a grenade And then I'm off like Walton Goggins— “Shane!” Or did someone say action?! Might be going crazy Or just famous Or delayed. I'm in Grenada. —Bird Internet. Written by C'cxell Soleïl Prod. by Blū Tha Gürū -Ū.

BGI TAPPED Sometimes, I write in Lin cadences Sometimes I pass time with Jim Fallon, I write behind closed eyes and white bars, Pigeons and white doves, While I get made fun of I tried to just let bygones by bygones But I can't cause I miss my son And there's no love in the bottom of class wars And harsh poverty; there's no brotherly love And New York just don't want me here Is this your card?! No motherfucker! Oh. Goddamn. You are bad at this. I thought I was! I told you I was. You are! Now, scram. What color is your magnitude? You failed! I told you I don't know my own songs form Adam! That wasn't me? No? Crap. It's jammed. Well, throw a rock at him! THE SNIPERS throw a rock at DIPLO; unassumingly and (sort of) by complete coincidence, this rock just happens to be the CAPSULOUS ILLUMINATUS— (And he is mad.) Huh. Ohh. Shitballs. (Very mad.) Not only is he mad— which is hilarious— but as he becomes enraged, beginning to hulk out of his “zen zone” Isn't it obvious? Zen zone? What a complete douchebag. I'm so serious. V.O Tales of a superstar DJ Alice In Wonderland was in my dream last night, But she had big blonde bushy Slavic eyebrows and I just… somehow.. didn't know what to make of that. I HAVE A TALE! No, you don't actually. Sit down and shut the fuck up! BAMPHERAMPH CAMP is going splendid. *complete decapitation* —gorgeous. Meanwhile. As it turns out… I have something to tell you. PLAY COMPLICATIONS ONE MORE TIME. I FUCKING DARE YOU. DEADMAU5 has created quite possibly the very first sonic time bomb— FIRST EVER? I TOLD YOU GET OUT OF HERE. YES FIRST EVER. BEFORE: Sniffs… Pauses *Tiny Sips* *sniffs again* *squinting, dissatisfied* …I sense Deadmau5 in this Skrillex. BUTLER You would be correct. {ENTER THE MULTIVERSE} Wait. Who the fuck is Steve Duda? Bro, I told you my name was Steve! OH! Tales of a Superstar DJ I thought you were joking. I'm not joking. Where's the pancakes?! I'm out! Why is this place so clean?! Ugh! You haven't been around— or— like— Nonsense. Hey wait— last time you were imaginary. Uh, no, I wasn't. Yes, you were literally just— “In your head” Yeah! That's not a thing. What. Get over that. What. Everything is real, everything is extreme… Are you also out of OATMEAL? Almost, obviously! —ly real! Ugh! And cream of wheat? I've been— I was getting fat. THATS HOW GOOD MUSIC IS MADE. IN STORED ENERGY. I have— *bacterially is critically low* *lights flickering* *sirens wailing* *time crumbling* *phone dies* Ugh. Look. Uh— STEVE. Uh…let's just say Larry— My name is STEVE! I told you that! I imagined you differently, okay, and I thought ‘Steve' was just deadmau5 being pranky. It is! What? It's a thing! Look it up. Oh shit. The Ace. I told you that dude was sketchy! Wait, which Ace. Of Spades. Ah shit. Is this your— No! Ah? Well, wait… Wait what? Wait. A second. Wait what? …this…that is my card. Is it? Yes… *vanishes* WHAT THE— L E G E N D S Our Next Segment is called “Who wrote that joke?” So I'm wondering about— That Hindu joke in season 5 of 30 Rock “Oh my God.” “Which one? “ “I'm going to make you regret your own birth“ “Which one?” COPYRIGHT THE FESTiVAL PROJECT, INC. ™ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. [The Festival Project ™] The Complex Collective © -Ū.

BGI TAPPED Sometimes, I write in Lin cadences Sometimes I pass time with Jim Fallon, I write behind closed eyes and white bars, Pigeons and white doves, While I get made fun of I tried to just let bygones by bygones But I can't cause I miss my son And there's no love in the bottom of class wars And harsh poverty; there's no brotherly love And New York just don't want me here Is this your card?! No motherfucker! Oh. Goddamn. You are bad at this. I thought I was! I told you I was. You are! Now, scram. What color is your magnitude? You failed! I told you I don't know my own songs form Adam! That wasn't me? No? Crap. It's jammed. Well, throw a rock at him! THE SNIPERS throw a rock at DIPLO; unassumingly and (sort of) by complete coincidence, this rock just happens to be the CAPSULOUS ILLUMINATUS— (And he is mad.) Huh. Ohh. Shitballs. (Very mad.) Not only is he mad— which is hilarious— but as he becomes enraged, beginning to hulk out of his “zen zone” Isn't it obvious? Zen zone? What a complete douchebag. I'm so serious. V.O Tales of a superstar DJ Alice In Wonderland was in my dream last night, But she had big blonde bushy Slavic eyebrows and I just… somehow.. didn't know what to make of that. I HAVE A TALE! No, you don't actually. Sit down and shut the fuck up! BAMPHERAMPH CAMP is going splendid. *complete decapitation* —gorgeous. Meanwhile. As it turns out… I have something to tell you. PLAY COMPLICATIONS ONE MORE TIME. I FUCKING DARE YOU. DEADMAU5 has created quite possibly the very first sonic time bomb— FIRST EVER? I TOLD YOU GET OUT OF HERE. YES FIRST EVER. BEFORE: Sniffs… Pauses *Tiny Sips* *sniffs again* *squinting, dissatisfied* …I sense Deadmau5 in this Skrillex. BUTLER You would be correct. {ENTER THE MULTIVERSE} Wait. Who the fuck is Steve Duda? Bro, I told you my name was Steve! OH! Tales of a Superstar DJ I thought you were joking. I'm not joking. Where's the pancakes?! I'm out! Why is this place so clean?! Ugh! You haven't been around— or— like— Nonsense. Hey wait— last time you were imaginary. Uh, no, I wasn't. Yes, you were literally just— “In your head” Yeah! That's not a thing. What. Get over that. What. Everything is real, everything is extreme… Are you also out of OATMEAL? Almost, obviously! —ly real! Ugh! And cream of wheat? I've been— I was getting fat. THATS HOW GOOD MUSIC IS MADE. IN STORED ENERGY. I have— *bacterially is critically low* *lights flickering* *sirens wailing* *time crumbling* *phone dies* Ugh. Look. Uh— STEVE. Uh…let's just say Larry— My name is STEVE! I told you that! I imagined you differently, okay, and I thought ‘Steve' was just deadmau5 being pranky. It is! What? It's a thing! Look it up. Oh shit. The Ace. I told you that dude was sketchy! Wait, which Ace. Of Spades. Ah shit. Is this your— No! Ah? Well, wait… Wait what? Wait. A second. Wait what? …this…that is my card. Is it? Yes… *vanishes* WHAT THE— L E G E N D S Our Next Segment is called “Who wrote that joke?” So I'm wondering about— That Hindu joke in season 5 of 30 Rock “Oh my God.” “Which one? “ “I'm going to make you regret your own birth“ “Which one?” COPYRIGHT THE FESTiVAL PROJECT, INC. ™ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. [The Festival Project ™] The Complex Collective © -Ū.

BGI TAPPED Sometimes, I write in Lin cadences Sometimes I pass time with Jim Fallon, I write behind closed eyes and white bars, Pigeons and white doves, While I get made fun of I tried to just let bygones by bygones But I can't cause I miss my son And there's no love in the bottom of class wars And harsh poverty; there's no brotherly love And New York just don't want me here Is this your card?! No motherfucker! Oh. Goddamn. You are bad at this. I thought I was! I told you I was. You are! Now, scram. What color is your magnitude? You failed! I told you I don't know my own songs form Adam! That wasn't me? No? Crap. It's jammed. Well, throw a rock at him! THE SNIPERS throw a rock at DIPLO; unassumingly and (sort of) by complete coincidence, this rock just happens to be the CAPSULOUS ILLUMINATUS— (And he is mad.) Huh. Ohh. Shitballs. (Very mad.) Not only is he mad— which is hilarious— but as he becomes enraged, beginning to hulk out of his “zen zone” Isn't it obvious? Zen zone? What a complete douchebag. I'm so serious. V.O Tales of a superstar DJ Alice In Wonderland was in my dream last night, But she had big blonde bushy Slavic eyebrows and I just… somehow.. didn't know what to make of that. I HAVE A TALE! No, you don't actually. Sit down and shut the fuck up! BAMPHERAMPH CAMP is going splendid. *complete decapitation* —gorgeous. Meanwhile. As it turns out… I have something to tell you. PLAY COMPLICATIONS ONE MORE TIME. I FUCKING DARE YOU. DEADMAU5 has created quite possibly the very first sonic time bomb— FIRST EVER? I TOLD YOU GET OUT OF HERE. YES FIRST EVER. BEFORE: Sniffs… Pauses *Tiny Sips* *sniffs again* *squinting, dissatisfied* …I sense Deadmau5 in this Skrillex. BUTLER You would be correct. {ENTER THE MULTIVERSE} Wait. Who the fuck is Steve Duda? Bro, I told you my name was Steve! OH! Tales of a Superstar DJ I thought you were joking. I'm not joking. Where's the pancakes?! I'm out! Why is this place so clean?! Ugh! You haven't been around— or— like— Nonsense. Hey wait— last time you were imaginary. Uh, no, I wasn't. Yes, you were literally just— “In your head” Yeah! That's not a thing. What. Get over that. What. Everything is real, everything is extreme… Are you also out of OATMEAL? Almost, obviously! —ly real! Ugh! And cream of wheat? I've been— I was getting fat. THATS HOW GOOD MUSIC IS MADE. IN STORED ENERGY. I have— *bacterially is critically low* *lights flickering* *sirens wailing* *time crumbling* *phone dies* Ugh. Look. Uh— STEVE. Uh…let's just say Larry— My name is STEVE! I told you that! I imagined you differently, okay, and I thought ‘Steve' was just deadmau5 being pranky. It is! What? It's a thing! Look it up. Oh shit. The Ace. I told you that dude was sketchy! Wait, which Ace. Of Spades. Ah shit. Is this your— No! Ah? Well, wait… Wait what? Wait. A second. Wait what? …this…that is my card. Is it? Yes… *vanishes* WHAT THE— L E G E N D S Our Next Segment is called “Who wrote that joke?” So I'm wondering about— That Hindu joke in season 5 of 30 Rock “Oh my God.” “Which one? “ “I'm going to make you regret your own birth“ “Which one?” COPYRIGHT THE FESTiVAL PROJECT, INC. ™ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. [The Festival Project ™] The Complex Collective © -Ū.

Send us a textHannah and Laura are wrapping up their discussion of Jim Butcher's Dead Beat by discussing the characters and themes. They question Harry's relationships, wonder about his mental health, and make guesses about what is next to come in the series. They also chat about a movie soundtrack Laura is loving, a Slavic folklore novella that Hannah recently read, and an actor whose presence in movies makes Hannah instantly fall asleep.**This episode contains SPOILERS for Dead Beat by Jim Butcher. Spoiler section begins at: 32 min 5 secs. ***CW for the episode: discussions of death, mental illness, violence, sex, gore, blood, memory loss, vampiresMedia Mentions:Dead Beat by Jim Butcher Conan O'Brien Must Go---HBO Max KPop Demon Hunters---Netflix Jujutsu Kaisen by Gege Akutami The Empress of Salt and Fortune by Nghi Vo When Among Crows by Veronica Roth King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby The Umbrella Academy---Netflix Blank Check podcast O Brother, Where Art Thou? ---Netflix Blood Simple---AppleTV  The Fugitive---Prime Video Taskmaster: New Zealand---YouTube Rapport: Friendship, Solidarity, Communion, Empathy by Martha Wells Support the showBe sure to follow OWWR Pod!www.owwrpod.com Twitter (updates only): @OwwrPodBlueSky: @OwwrPodTikTok: @OwwrPodInstagram: @owwrpodThreads: @OwwrPodHive: @owwrpodSend us an email at: owwrpod@gmail.comCheck out OWWR Patreon: patreon.com/owwrpodOr join OWWR Discord! We'd love to chat with you!You can follow Hannah at:Instagram: @brews.and.booksThreads: @brews.and.booksTikTok: @brews.and.booksYou can follow Laura at:Instagram: @goodbooksgreatgoatsBlueSky: @myyypod

I didn't plan to write this. It started with a Thread, sparked by a conversation with someone who spoke as if identity was destiny, and belonging was determined by pain. They spoke in the voice of certainty—about who could speak, who couldn't, and who owed what to whom.But it stirred something old in me.I grew up in Salt Lake, Oahu. Subsidized garden apartments near the airport. I was six. A haole kid—Irish, English, German, Czechoslovakian, Hungarian—surrounded by friends who were Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Samoan, Filipino. In Hawaii, we were all poi dogs: mutts, proud of our mix. Nobody cared what you were—until intermediate school, when I was suddenly just “white.” One word flattened my whole ancestry.That flattening—that erasure of nuance—is what this is about.Let's be clear: America has never been an ethnostate. It's never required blood purity. It's flirted with white supremacy, yes. It's been built on contradictions, certainly. But it has always been chaotic, plural, experimental. Jews were among the first colonists. There were free Black people before slavery became systemic. Hawaiian royalty toured the White House. The myth of America as ethnically pure is just that—a myth.Compare that with actual ethnostates. Japan. Korea. Hungary. Nations where blood defines belonging. Where being born in-country doesn't mean you're accepted. Where assimilation isn't expected—because it isn't offered. These are places with coherent boundaries. That's what makes them safer, yes—but also more exclusionary.And yet somehow, America bears the guilt of falling short of an ideal no one else even tries to live up to.Whiteness in America has never been fixed. Irish weren't white. Italians weren't white. Jews weren't white. Whiteness was a moving caste line. A club. Not a color.Today, the same people who rightly insist on distinguishing between Vietnamese and Chinese, or Dominican and Puerto Rican, will lump everyone with pale skin into “white.” As if all of us grew up with the same privilege. As if someone like me—raised by a single mom, broke, mixed, uninvited—was born at the top of the pyramid.It's not justice. It's just reversal.Later in life, on Mastodon—a social platform of federated, ideological islands—I found myself in dialogue with an actual white supremacist. He told me I wasn't really white. Not with Irish Catholic blood from County Mayo. Not with Hungarian roots from Budapest. Not with my Slavic features. To him, true whiteness belonged to ethnic English and Germans. Everyone else was an Untermensch—a word I knew from my time in Berlin. A slur. A caste marker. Garbage people.I laughed it off. But I didn't forget.The deeper you look into the world, the more you see these hierarchies. In Singapore, ethnic Han Chinese dominate. In Finland, the elite are Swedish, not Finnish. Every culture has its own purity test.That's why America still matters. Even when it fails. Especially when it fails.Because here, a kid like me could eat kalbi from a Korean neighbor's hibachi at six years old and fall in love with kimchi before knowing how to spell it. Here, I could be a poi dog and still grow up to write, to speak, to belong. That doesn't happen in most of the world.We talk about justice, but we also need to talk about containment. UBI, grievance culture, and online rage cycles don't liberate people—they manage them. They keep people home, sedated, sequestered. Just enough bread to dull hunger. Just enough narrative to keep them angry but inactive.It's not revolution. It's sedation.Still—I believe in this country. Not because it's perfect. But because it's unfinished. Because it tries, even when it stumbles. Because it allows us to write ourselves in.So no, America isn't an ethnostate. And the fact that we even argue about how to be more inclusive proves it.It's messy. But it's ours.And I'll defend that—with aloha.

We talk a lot about racism in America, but what we're really contending with today isn't just race—it's culture. It's not about the color of your skin, but the code you speak. Not the blood in your veins, but the dialect on your tongue. It's not whiteness that gets punished—it's acting white. It's not blackness that's rejected—it's betraying the culture. This is not racism. This is cultural apartheid.I learned this growing up in Hawaii, where being a haole (white) wasn't the problem—it was acting haole that got you smacked down. The local Asian and Polynesian kids who studied hard, dressed preppy, or spoke standard English weren't accepted. They were called Twinkies (yellow on the outside, white on the inside) or bananas. Brown kids were accused of acting white. It's the same logic that calls Clarence Thomas the “Black face of white supremacy.” The attack isn't about biology—it's about betrayal.My mother knew the code. She drilled it into me. Inside the house, I was to speak proper Manhattanite English—“NPR English,” she called it. She filled my mind with Sagan, Picasso, PBS, poetry, National Geographic. But when I stepped out the door, she expected me to speak local. Slippah talk. Braddah slang. "What, you? Stink eye, eh?" That kind of thing. Code-switching wasn't optional. It was survival.And here's the thing: the people who don't or won't code-switch—who plant their feet and refuse—get culturally ghettoized. Not racially. Culturally. And then they're told this isolation is empowerment. That rejecting the norms of so-called whiteness is resistance. But what it really is? It's opt-in apartheid. It's self-segregation dressed up as identity.This isn't just about dialect or diction. It's deeper. It's about creating pride around disconnection. It's about rejecting opportunity because opportunity looks like assimilation. It's about mocking Black excellence if it “sounds white.” It's about labeling those who succeed outside the culture as sellouts. It's a trap—and it's being sold as virtue.What's happening isn't that different from what eugenicists once tried to do through force—except now it's happening through cultural manipulation. Back then, they sterilized. Now, they convince you to sterilize yourself. Back then, they built ghettos. Now, they convince you to build your own. Back then, they burned bridges. Now, you're told burning bridges is bravery.You want to know the wildest part? Even among white people, there's a caste. I had a guy on Mastodon—a literal white supremacist—tell me I wasn't really white. I'm Irish and Hungarian. That makes me untermench to him. Not Anglo. Not Aryan enough. Catholic, no less. Garbage blood. Slavic trash. So when you talk about whiteness, understand even the racists have tiers.The people who think they're resisting white supremacy by rejecting standard norms are actually reinforcing a deeper, more sinister system—a system that wants you contained, controlled, and culled. It wants you to choose self-limitation and then call it identity. It wants you to abandon the tools of success, then blame “the system” for failure. It wants you broke, isolated, and dependent—and convinced that's freedom.We need to call this what it is: cultural apartheid. Not class apartheid. Not even racial apartheid. Cultural. You're judged not by your skin, but by your syntax. Your style. Your self-presentation. You're either in the house, or you're in the yard. And the tragedy? A lot of people are choosing the yard and calling it liberation.So no, this isn't about “acting white.” It's about refusing to play the game that keeps you small. It's about seeing code-switching not as betrayal, but as strategy. It's about refusing to be a mule who plants their feet in defiance while the world moves on.Speak every language you can. Walk in every world you can. Don't let anyone shame you into staying small. The deck is open. The cockpit has a seat. Don't chain yourself to the hold and call it pride.

In this episode, Natty dives into the eerie and fascinating world of Baba Yaga alongside guests Erica and Wyatt. They explore Baba Yaga's origins, her peculiar home on chicken legs, and her role in Slavic mythology. The discussion also covers her magical possessions, gruesome rituals involving children, and her transformation from a goddess to a fearsome witch. Erica and Wyatt share their own creepy experiences, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this spine-chilling podcast episode.My Links:Click here for merch sites, patreon site, website, to donate, and join me on social media!Guest Links:EmailWebsiteInstagramErica's BookSources:https://www.britannica.com/topic/Baba-Yaga  chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://ces.ufl.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Baba-Yaga-informational-material.pdfhttps://www.thecambridgelanguagecollective.com/europe/baba-yaga  https://www.worldhistory.org/Baba_Yaga/  https://medium.com/@raspberry_child/bony-legs-the-evolution-of-baba-yaga-548812b06452https://medium.com/@katiapavlovart/the-very-messed-up-origins-of-baba-yaga-the-bone-leg-slavic-mythology-fed68bf5349aBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cryptids-creeps-and-conspiracy-podcast--6041412/support.

Shabarsha is big, strong, and very clever—but he never wants to work. One day, he comes up with a tricky plan by the river. Will it lead to trouble or treasure?

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett explore the Völkerwanderung—the massive Germanic, Slavic, and Arabic migrations (200 BC-600 AD) that transformed Europe from Mediterranean-centered classical civilization into the foundations of medieval Christendom. --

Shabarsha is big, strong, and very clever—but he never wants to work. One day, he comes up with a tricky plan by the river. Will it lead to trouble or treasure?

Shabarsha is big, strong, and very clever—but he never wants to work. One day, he comes up with a tricky plan by the river. Will it lead to trouble or treasure?

299 A Talk About Nosferatu and Dracula w/Stanley StepanicSteven is joined on this episode by Professor Stanley Stepanic to discuss Dracula and Nosferatu from an historical perspective. We hope that you enjoy!Stanley Stepanic is an Associate Professor of Slavic Languages and Literatures at the University of Virginia. He received his MA and PhD from the same institution. To date he has published three textbooks that have been released in recent editions. These are "Dracula or the Timeless Path of the Vampire," a thorough overview of the vampire from original Slavic folklore and how it transformed in modern media; "Russian and East European Film," a historical look at the medium of film in Eastern Europe with an extensive film analysis list and interactive questions; and "Russian Folklore," the first thorough overview of the subject. Most recently he published "A Vamp There Was," which incorporates fiction with extensive historical information concerning the "vamp" image of the 1910s and 1920s. In addition to such publications, Professor Stepanic has been very active in the public sphere, giving a variety of presentations and interviews with media outlets over the years, primarily concerning the vampire. He also runs an underground media site and small record label named Deaf Sparrow.Please send feedback to DieCastMoviePodcast@gmail.com or leave us a message on our Facebook page.Thanks for listening!

You might have heard of the Phoenix, the legendary bird who bursts into flames and is reborn from its ashes. Well, its literary cousin is the Slavic myth of the Firebird, an elusive creature whose feathers burn and light up the night. Stories about Phoenix-like birds have spread all over, and Firebird legends are found in most Slavic cultures. These stories, like connective tissue, help unite people throughout the world. Listen to this episode in Spanish here.More info and transcript at BirdNote.org.Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible.

In this spine-chilling episode of My Dark Path, host MF Thomas unravels the eerie legend of the Blackbird of Chernobyl, a mysterious creature rumored to have foreshadowed the catastrophic 1986 nuclear disaster. Blending eyewitness testimonies, historical timelines, and Slavic folklore, this episode dives deep into one of history's most haunting mysteries. From the devastated streets of Pripyat to the ominous sightings of a headless, winged entity with glowing red eyes, discover the untold story that intertwines the paranormal with a real-world tragedy.What's Inside This EpisodeThe Chernobyl Disaster Unveiled: Relive the harrowing timeline of the 1986 explosion at Reactor No. 4, from the initial power surge to the heroic efforts of liquidators and the evacuation of 115,000 Pripyat residents.The Blackbird Legend: Explore chilling accounts of a dark, monstrous figure—described as a grotesque fusion of raven and vulture—spotted by Chernobyl workers days before the meltdown.Slavic Folklore Roots: Learn how blackbirds, long seen as omens of death in Ukrainian and Slavic mythology, might connect to this supernatural tale.Paranormal Parallels: Draw connections to the Mothman legend and other global phenomena where disaster and strange sightings collide.Why You'll Be HookedGripping Storytelling: MF Thomas masterfully weaves history, science, and the supernatural into a narrative that keeps you on edge.Fresh Insights: See the Chernobyl disaster through a paranormal lens, enriched with survivor stories and cultural context.Mystery Meets History: Perfect for fans of UFOs, conspiracies, and historical enigmas, this episode bridges the known and the unknown.Visit the episode page: https://www.mydarkpath.com/blackbird-of-chernobylRead MF Thomas' novels Like Clockwork https://amzn.to/417lOzyArcade https://amzn.to/4aTpisxA Sickness in Time https://amzn.to/41apSPKSeeing by Moonlight ...

Over the past three years, Ukraine has not only defended its sovereignty on the battlefield but also worked tirelessly to preserve and promote its cultural identity worldwide. One institution playing a crucial role in this effort is the Ukrainian Institute in Slovakia. Saints Cyril and Methodius are highly revered in Slovakia as national saints and are credited with bringing Christianity and literacy to the Slavic peoples. Their feast day, July 5th, is a public holiday in Slovakia, celebrating their legacy and contribution to Slovak history and culture.

The modern nation-state of Romania is a puzzle of sorts. Given its place in Eastern Europe, surrounded by mostly Slavic and Slavic-speaking countries, its people speak a tongue descended from Latin, the noble language of the Romans. Its name also gives a hint at ties to Rome, but before these lands fell under Roman influence and jurisdiction, they were united by a man who has since become a national hero the Romanians: Burebista. Join me today for a look at the reign and times of this great leader, who forged an empire all his own!

While the war in Ukraine continues to grab news headlines, the daily lives of Ukrainians remain opaque and mostly anonymous. What is it really like to live there during wartime? Historian Danielle Leavitt answers that question in her book, By the Second Spring: Seven Lives and One Year of the War in Ukraine. By going beyond familiar portraits of wartime heroism and victimhood, Leavitt reveals the human experience of the conflict. A U.S. citizen who grew up in Ukraine, Leavitt draws on her deep familiarity with the country and online diaries to track a diverse group of Ukrainians through the first year of the war. Among others, she introduces Vitaly, whose plans to open a coffee bar in a Kyiv suburb fall apart when the Russian army marches through his town and his apartment building is split in two by a rocket; Anna, who drops out of the police academy and begins a tumultuous relationship with a soldier; and Polina, a fashion-industry insider who returns home from Los Angeles to organize relief. To illuminate the complex resurgence of Ukraine's national spirit, Leavitt also tells the story of Volodymyr Shovkoshitniy—a nuclear engineer at Chernobyl who went on to lead a daring campaign in the late 1980s to return the bodies of three Ukrainian writers who'd died in a Soviet gulag. Leavitt offers an interior history of Europe's largest land war in seventy-five years—one that goes beyond the headlines about the conflict. Danielle Leavitt holds a PhD in history from Harvard University, where she has been a fellow at the Ukrainian Research Institute. She grew up in both Ukraine and the United States, and currently lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan. By the Second Spring is her first book. Sasha Senderovich is Associate Professor of Slavic, Jewish, and International Studies at the University of Washington. He's the author of How the Soviet Jew Was Made (2022), and co-editor and co-translator of In the Shadow of the Holocaust: Short Fiction by Jewish Writers from the Soviet Union (2026). Buy the Book By the Second Spring: Seven Lives and One Year of the War in Ukraine (Hardcover) Elliott Bay Book Company

In this episode, Lian shares the timeless Slavic folktale tale of Vasilisa The Beautiful and Baba Yaga. Each month, Lian tells a mythical tale… as spell, as memory, as invitation... not to be analysed or consumed, but to be felt, stirred, remembered as a magical doorway into your own soul. She first shared this live with our beloved community in UNIO, our Academy of the Soul, in which we continue to journey more deeply together with it in a month-long quest. To join us for the next mythical quest, you can join UNIO here: bemythical.com/unio The tale of Vasilisa is one of enchantment, resilience, and the deep wisdom that lies hidden in plain sight. A dying mother's blessing… a magical doll… a dark forest… and the terrifying Baba Yaga, whose spinning hut and riddling tasks test the heart of a young girl thrust into a heroine's journey. What begins as a tale of cruelty and exile unfolds into a luminous transformation… one that reveals how love, intuition, and soul-guidance can lead us through even the darkest of nights. Through this myth, we're offered a mirror: one that reflects back our own relationship to trust, to trial, and to the quiet voice that knows the way home. We'd love to know what YOU think about this week's show. Let's carry on the conversation… please leave a comment wherever you are listening or in any of our other spaces to engage. What you'll receive from this episode: A Blessing in Disguise: The doll Vasilisa's mother gives her is more than a keepsake… it becomes the voice of wisdom, protection, and intuition that guides her through the unknown. The Trials of the Forest: Baba Yaga's impossible tasks become rites of passage, revealing the hidden power that awakens when we listen, surrender, and trust what lives within us. Fire as Sovereignty: The flame Vasilisa returns with is no longer borrowed… it is earned, and with it comes a transformation that burns away falsehood and reveals the queen she was always becoming. Resources and stuff Lian spoke about: Join UNIO, the Academy of the Soul: This is for the old souls in this new world… Discover your kin & unite with your soul's calling to truly live your myth. Be Mythical Join our mailing list for soul stirring goodness: https://www.bemythical.com/moonly Discover your kin & unite with your soul's calling to truly live your myth: https://www.bemythical.com/unio Go Deeper: https://www.bemythical.com/godeeper Follow us: Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Thank you for listening! There's a fresh episode released each week here and on most podcast platforms - and video too on YouTube. If you subscribe then you'll get each new episode delivered to your device every week automagically. (that way you'll never miss a show).

Ninntenndo America, Inc. Announces Two New Pokémon Arriving in 2026!: Trixioohh is a deranged Fairy/Plastic type Pokémon evolved from a cursed eyeliner found in the haunted Ross store on La Brea Avenue. With moves like Wig Whip, Slander Pulse, and her apocalyptic signature attack Nuclear Eyebrow Gluer, she crushes enemies into submission and leaves behind a sticky residue of THC gummies. Katya Zamoirrra is a Psychic/Trash/Unstable Gas type who doesn't evolve—she erupts in an explosion of movie references and HVAC manuals. Her moves include Sweat Tsunami and Soviet Psy-Ops, which launches an entire Slavic folklore demon at your opponent. Her body flickers between dimensions like bad reception, and her laughter can cause minor nosebleeds in nearby trainers. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to: https://Zocdoc.com/BALD to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! For a limited time only for our listeners, get 60% off your first order of Smalls PLUS free shipping by going to https://Smalls.com and using our code BALD Make your outdoor space your dream oasis TODAY with Wayfair! Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop a huge outdoor selection. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Work on your financial goals through Chime today! Open an account in 2 minutes at https://Chime.com/BALD Chime.  Feels like progress. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at ⁠https://BetterHelp.com/BALD⁠ and get on your way to being your best self! Follow Trixie: @TrixieMattel Follow Katya: @Katya_Zamo To watch the podcast on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/TrixieKatyaYT⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To check out our official YouTube Clips Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/TrixieAndKatyaClipsYT⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Don't forget to follow the podcast for free wherever you're listening or by using this link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/thebaldandthebeautifulpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you want to support the show, and get all the episodes ad-free go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thebaldandthebeautiful.supercast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you like the show, telling a friend about it would be amazing! You can text, email, Tweet, or send this link to a friend: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/thebaldandthebeautifulpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To check out future Live Podcast Shows, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://trixieandkatyalive.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To order your copy of our book, "Working Girls", go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://workinggirlsbook.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To check out the Trixie Motel in Palm Springs, CA: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.trixiemotel.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen Anywhere! ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/thebaldandthebeautifulpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠   Follo​w Trixie: Official Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.trixiemattel.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ​ TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@trixie⁠⁠ Facebook: ​⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trixiemattel⁠⁠⁠⁠  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/trixiemattel⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter (X): ​⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/trixiemattel⁠⁠⁠⁠   Follow Katya: Official Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.welovekatya.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@katya_zamo⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/welovekatya/⁠⁠⁠⁠  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/katya_zamo⁠⁠⁠⁠  Twitter (X): ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/katya_zamo⁠⁠⁠⁠    About the Podcast: The Bald and the Beautiful with Trixie and Katya features a pair of grizzled gay ghouls sitting on chairs, holding microphones, and discussing their fabulous lives in Tinseltown. (featuring occasional forays into movies, television shows, and air-conditioning) The New York Times called them models, moguls, actors, influencers, drag queens, RuPaul's Drag Race contestants, and even humanoids. If one thing can be said about these two preternaturally gorgeous queens' podcast, it's that Trixie and Katya find the sheer, unadulterated beauty of pure insanity. Tune in every week to experience the auditory pleasure that is The Bald and the Beautiful with Trixie and Katya. #TrixieMattel #KatyaZamo #BaldBeautiful Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Please hit Subscribe. Click here to see and purchase Jens Book. https://a.co/d/780uCZZ Click here to go to our Facebook Page. https://www.facebook.com/222paranormal Click here to go to our Patreon Page. https://www.patreon.com/222ParanormalPodcast   In this chilling episode of the 222 Paranormal Podcast, we take you deep into the icy forests, shadowy mountains, and ancient towns of Russia—a land rich with supernatural legends, terrifying cryptids, and long-whispered ghost stories. From mysterious creatures lurking in the wilderness to haunted castles that echo with the voices of the past, Russia holds some of the world's most intriguing and spine-tingling paranormal phenomena. Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Whether you're a fan of true paranormal stories, creepy folklore, or terrifying creatures, this episode is packed with high-strangeness, historical context, and supernatural intrigue. We combine our love for the paranormal with deep research and storytelling, making this journey into Russia's haunted history one of our most fascinating episodes yet. So grab your headphones, turn off the lights, and join us as we venture into a world of cryptids, ghosts, and legends from Russia that will leave you questioning what's real—and what waits in the shadows. Russia's Paranormal Landscape: Where Myths Meet Monsters Russia is known for its vast and remote landscapes—prime territory for unexplained sightings and paranormal activity. In this episode, we explore the most compelling and bone-chilling stories of Russian cryptids, including the elusive Almasty—a creature often compared to Bigfoot, believed to roam the Caucasus Mountains. Is it a relic hominid from prehistoric times? Or something far stranger?   Here's a more detailed look at some Russian cryptids:     Baba Yaga: A powerful and ambiguous figure, Baba Yaga is often depicted as a witch who lives in a hut that stands on chicken legs and can be both helpful and dangerous. Almasty: This creature is similar to Bigfoot or Yeti, with local versions known as Chuchuna in Yakutia. Brosno Monster: Local legends describe this creature as a large, scaly, reptile-like monster inhabiting Lake Brosno. Some accounts even claim it swallowed a German pilot during World War II. Vodyanoy: A malevolent water spirit, the Vodyanoy dwells in bodies of freshwater and is known for drowning people. Rusalka: A female spirit associated with water bodies, sometimes depicted as a mischievous or vengeful figure. Leshy: A forest spirit, the Leshy can be both helpful and harmful, and is often associated with the changing seasons. Kikimora: A female house spirit, the Kikimora's role is often contrasted with the Domovoy (a house spirit). Chort: A mischievous or evil spirit, often depicted as a devil-like creature. Gamayun: A prophetic bird, symbolizing wisdom and knowledge. We also investigate the terrifying tales of the Siberian Snowman, Russia's version of the Yeti. Locals claim to hear inhuman howls echoing through the Siberian taiga, while others report close encounters with towering, hairy creatures moving silently through the snow. Could these cryptids be real, or are they legends passed down to explain the unexplained?   Haunted Places That Will Freeze Your Soul Russia's dark history and turbulent past have created the perfect storm for hauntings. From the grandeur of Kremlin ghosts to forgotten Soviet-era bunkers with eerie energy, we delve into some of the most haunted locations across the country. One of the most infamous is the Tower of Death in St. Petersburg, said to be cursed and haunted by prisoners who perished within its stone walls. Paranormal investigators have recorded unexplained cold spots, disembodied voices, and even shadow figures roaming the ruins at night. We also look into the chilling legend of the House of Soviets in Kaliningrad—a towering concrete structure never completed, often dubbed the “ugliest building in the world.” Many believe it sits atop a cursed Nazi-era bunker, and strange occurrences—power surges, lights flickering, and ghostly apparitions—have plagued the site for decades.   Russian Folklore and Urban Legends: The Stories That Linger No discussion of Russian paranormal topics would be complete without diving into its deep well of folklore. Russia has a unique pantheon of mythological beings, including the terrifying Baba Yaga, a witch-like figure who dwells in a hut that walks on chicken legs. Children are warned to stay away from the woods, lest Baba Yaga lure them into her domain. We also explore urban legends such as the Dyatlov Pass Incident, where nine experienced hikers mysteriously perished in 1959 under suspicious and still-unexplained circumstances. Theories range from alien encounters to government experiments, and the mystery continues to fascinate and terrify to this day. Another lesser-known tale we bring to light is the legend of the Volga Sirens, said to sing haunting melodies near the riverbanks, drawing fishermen to their doom. These mermaid-like entities have roots in ancient Slavic myth but continue to surface in local stories to this day.     Welcome to the 222 Paranormal Podcast, your gateway to the captivating world of the supernatural. Immerse yourself in our expertly crafted episodes, where we delve deep into a wide range of paranormal phenomena, including ghostly hauntings, cryptid sightings, and unexplained mysteries that defy logic. Each episode is meticulously researched and features engaging discussions with leading experts, seasoned ghost hunters, and renowned paranormal investigators. We cover the latest advancements in ghost hunting technology, offer practical tips for both amateur and experienced investigators, and review essential equipment for your paranormal adventures. Our podcast also explores the rich history of haunted locations, sharing true stories and firsthand accounts that will send chills down your spine. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the paranormal or just curious about the unknown, our content is designed to entertain, inform, and ignite your imagination. Stay tuned as we uncover secrets from the most haunted places around the world and analyze the most intriguing supernatural events. We also provide in-depth interviews with notable figures in the field and explore theories that challenge conventional understanding of reality. By subscribing to our Paranormal Podcast, you'll stay updated with the latest episodes, allowing you to join a community of like-minded individuals who share your fascination with the unexplained. Don't miss out on our exclusive content and special features, which bring you closer to the mysteries that lie beyond our everyday experiences. Dive into the world of the unknown with our Paranormal Podcast and experience the thrill of discovering what lies just beyond the veil of reality.

Today we're talking about the magical midsummer celebration of Kupala Night—a Slavic holiday rooted in fire, water, love, and nature. From bonfire leaps to mythical fern flowers, we dig into its history, folklore, and how you can celebrate it today! Need more WMMM in your life? Join the Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/c/witchesmagicmurdermystery Want WMMM Merch? Check out the podcast store: https://witches-magic-murder-mystery-podcast-store.myshopify.com   Our Youtube Channel has longer versions of our episodes, with less editing and more outtakes: https://www.youtube.com/c/WitchesMagicMurderMysteryPodcast Sources:   https://www.learnreligions.com/ivan-kupala-day-4771822 https://slavorum.org/kupala-night-the-magical-slavic-celebration-of-summer/ https://www.rbth.com/lifestyle/328912-ivan-kupala-russian-traditions https://folkways.si.edu/midsummer-kupala-night-slavic-ritual-celebration/article/smithsonian https://ukrainian-recipes.com/ivan-kupala-night-traditions.html https://paganpages.org/emagazine/202 All Witches, Magic, Murder, & Mystery episodes are a mix of Kara and Megan's personal thoughts and opinions in response to the information that is publicly available at the time of recording, as well as, in some cases, personal accounts provided by listeners. In regard to these self-reported personal accounts, there can be no assurance that the information provided is 100% accurate.  If you love the Trash Witch art (see our Patreon or the Podcast store), Tiffini Scherbing of Scherbing Arts created her. Like her Scherbing Arts page on Facebook, or follow her on instagram at @scherbingarts76! She can create anything you need.  TikTok: @wmmmpodcast Instagram: @witchesmagicmurdermystery Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/465405701297488/ Email all your weird stories: witchesmagicmurdermystery@gmail.com Get to know us better:                  Kara: @many_adventures_of_kara on Instagram              Megan: @meganmakesjokes on TikTok, @megan_whitmer on Instagram  WMMM Podcast P.O. Box 910674 Lexington, KY 40591 Music credit: Chloe's Lullaby (podcast theme) by Robert Austin. Available on Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, Bandcamp, and Patreon! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coucou everyone!What happens when you can't trust Russia or the United States? Who do you turn to? You turn to......Mexico??? In Yugoslavia, that's exactly what happened during the 1950s. This week Kate tells us about the Yu-Mex music genre. Catherine then tells us about the Slavic myth, The Tree of Life. So pour yourself some tequila or rakija and let's say 'salud' to our newest episode!Main topic sources: Yucatan Magazine: Yu-MexGlobal VoicesYoutube: Yu-Mex - Yugoslav MexicoAustin FilmMitú: Yu-MexMini topic sources:Slavic Tree of Life Kate's recommendation: Catherine's recommendation: Tuna Caprese salad, the perfect Italian summer lunch!Don't forget to follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ :)Cover art and logo by Kate WalkerMixed and edited by Catherine RoehreTheme song by LumehillThank you all - ciao!

For this special episode, Alex invites new guest, Igor “Warrior” Nedvalyuk, on the pod to watch Sean Baker's Best Picture-winning masterpiece, “Anora.” The guys discuss using movie quotes as a form of communication, Slavic culture, Sean Baker's filmography, “Compartment No. 6,” “Casino,” "Glengarry Glen Ross," raves, Best Actress winner Mikey Madison, the film's authenticity, and so much more. Watch on Hulu right along with us!Follow @WAYW_Podcast on Twitter and Instagram and Letterboxd.Send mailbag questions to whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com

06/10/2025 - Michael Johnson -on the work of the Slavic Gospel Association during the Ukraine War

Some names should never be spoken. And some promises echo louder in the dark. In this haunting episode of From Folklore to the Heartland, journey into the shadowed wilds of Slavic legend and twisted fairy realms, where ancient beings still barter in blood and gold—and the price of love may be far more than you're willing to pay. Guided by the bone-cracking footsteps of Baba Yaga herself, host PJM presents a tale where nothing is what it seems, and survival hinges on memory, sacrifice, and the oldest kind of magic. To watch the podcast on YouTube: ⁠⁠http://bit.ly/ChillingEntertainmentYT⁠⁠ Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for free wherever you're listening or by using this link: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/FearFromTheHeartland⁠⁠ If you like the show, telling a friend about it would be amazing! You can text, email, Tweet, or send this link to a friend: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/FearFromTheHeartland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris speaks with researcher and author Ross Downing about his book Germanic and Slavic Paganism: Security Threats and Resiliency. Ross, who works with a network of scholars and specialists focused on minority religions and extremism, explores how modern pagan traditions, particularly those rooted in Germanic and Slavic identity, are increasingly weaponized by extremist movements on both sides of the Ukraine War. From the myth of the warrior ideal to the role of neo-paganism in Russian special forces and the Azov movement, Ross unpacks the ideological messiness, spiritual camouflage, and social vulnerabilities that make these belief systems ripe for radicalization. They also discuss the “folkish vs. inclusive” divide, the algorithm's role in spreading conspiratorial spirituality, and why mainstream institutions need to step up—not just to contain extremism, but to support resilient, non-violent expressions of cultural identity. Find Ross's book: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/germanic-and-slavic-paganisms-9781350423916/ Watch on YouTube to see Ross talk about Pagan symbols used by Russian and Ukrainian forces: https://youtu.be/IMJ3OH3czMA Subscribe and share to stay ahead in the world of intelligence, geopolitics, and current affairs. Support Secrets and Spies Become a “Friend of the Podcast” on Patreon for £3/$4: https://www.patreon.com/SecretsAndSpies Buy merchandise from our shop: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60934996 Subscribe to our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVB23lrHr3KFeXq4VU36dg For more information about the podcast, check out our website: https://secretsandspiespodcast.com Connect with us on social media Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/secretsandspies.bsky.social Instagram: https://instagram.com/secretsandspies Facebook: https://facebook.com/secretsandspies Spoutible: https://spoutible.com/SecretsAndSpies Follow Chris and Matt on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chriscarrfilm.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/mattfulton.net Secrets and Spies is produced by F & P LTD. Music by Andrew R. Bird Photo by Olga Maltseva/AFP Secrets and Spies sits at the intersection of intelligence, covert action, real-world espionage, and broader geopolitics in a way that is digestible but serious. Hosted by filmmaker Chris Carr and writer Matt Fulton, each episode examines the very topics that real intelligence officers and analysts consider on a daily basis through the lens of global events and geopolitics, featuring expert insights from former spies, authors, and journalists.

A bonus episode this week. On May 22, I moderated a panel organized by Vita Golod and the UNC Center for Slavic, Eurasian, and East European Studies. The focus was on the U.S.-Ukraine Mineral Security Partnership, and it features Ivan Us, Chief Consultant at the Center for Foreign Policy at the National Institute for Strategic Studies; Jim Mullinax, a Senior Foreign Service Officer and former Consul General at the U.S. Consulate in Chengdu (closed in 2020); Grzegorz Stec, Senior Analyst and Head of the Brussels Office at MERICS; and Xu Qinduo, journalist at CGTN and Senior Fellow at the Pangoal Institution. The panel explores the background and the implications of the minerals deal, signed on May 1, 2025, for the ongoing war in Ukraine, and prospects for post-war reconstruction. I hope you enjoy what I thought was a fascinating conversation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to Middle-earth celebration: week two! In this episode, Leigh takes on the underrated plot of 2002's The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, while Lor digs into the forest floor to explore the Slavic myth of the Leshy.FACT CHECKS:Gandalf is an Istari, an angelic being (Maiar) sent to Middle-earth as a wizard during the Third Age. Brad Duriff played Dr. Wheedon in Senseless. The Last March of the Ents is the forty-first soundtrack of the Complete Recordings of The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers.CELEBRATE OUR ANNIVERSARY WITH SOME UBMC MERCH!NEWS & RESOURCES:https://www.npr.orghttps://www.bbc.comhttps://www.them.ushttps://translifeline.org/

The two saints were brothers, born in Thessalonica. St Methodius, the elder brother, served as a soldier for ten years before becoming a monk. Cyril was librarian at the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople; then he too became a monk.   Their first missionary work was not among the Slavs: When the king of the Khazars (a Mongol people who then inhabited much of what is now Russia) petitioned the Emperor Michael to sent teachers to instruct his people, the Emperor chose Cyril and Methodius as his emissaries. They converted the Khazar king to the Christian faith, along with many of his nobles and commoners.   When King Rostislav of Moravia likewise sought teachers of the Christian faith, Cyril and Methodius were again sent forth. This time they devised an alphabet for the Slavic language and used it to translate many of the Greek service books into the language of the people. (In theory, the Orthodox people have always been privileged to hear the Church's services in their own tongue, though often attachment to dead languages has prevented this ideal from becoming reality.) Both brothers were repeatedly attacked by Germanic priests of the region, who opposed the use of the common tongue in the liturgy. At different times, both brothers were forced to appeal for exoneration and protection to the Pope of Rome, who supported them warmly each time.   After the two Saints reposed, attacks on their work continued, and their disciples were eventually driven from Moravia. The disciples, fleeing southward, found a warmer welcome among the southern Slavic peoples, and their work bore much fruit in Bulgaria (including modern-day Serbia) and other countries. And, of course, the alphabet that they devised, called Cyrillic after St Cyril, remains the standard alphabet of both the Slavonic service books of the Church and the Slavic languages of today.

Beppe, a native Italian, started his journey in active travel over two decades ago and, with the help of his wife Heather, co-founded Tourissimo, one of the top adventure travel companies in Italy. With years of expertise designing cycling and adventure tours across all 20 regions of Italy, Beppe and Heather have the inside scoop on the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Italy has to offer.So grab your espresso (or a glass of vino Italiano), and let's explore Italy region by region!Northern Italy: Adventure, Culture, and Alpine BeautyLombardy (Lombardia)Running along the Swiss border, Lombardy is Italy's largest and wealthiest region—a land of striking contrasts and cultural riches. Home to nearly 10 million people, Lombardy contains 12 of Italy's largest cities: Milan, Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Mantua, Pavia, Cremona, Lecco, Lodi, Monza, Sondrio, and Varese. The region blends modern sophistication with old-world charm, from the fashion capital and bustling metropolis of Milan to the serene, postcard-perfect landscapes of Lake Como.Lombardy is dotted with some of Italy's most beloved lakes, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro, and many more. Picturesque villages like Bellagio offer sun-drenched escapes along Lake Como's shores, while the medieval towns of Bergamo and Mantova enchant visitors with cobblestone streets, sweeping views, and centuries of history.Culinary lovers will be spoiled for choice with Lombardy's 60 Michelin-starred restaurants—3 with three stars, 6 with two stars, and 51 with one star. Be sure to savor the region's iconic Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron-infused dish that's a local staple. Wine enthusiasts won't want to miss a glass of Franciacorta, Italy's sparkling answer to Champagne.November is a wonderful time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's also the perfect season to explore Lombardy's slice of the Alps, where charming mountain towns await nestled among the peaks. For an unforgettable adventure, consider attending the 2025 Winter Olympics, which will be held in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo!Tourissimo Tip– If you are flying into Milan, select the correct airport because Milan has two airports! For info, check out the following Tourissimo blog: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/avoid-this-common-travel-mistake-know-milans-two-airportsVenetoVeneto, the birthplace of Prosecco, Polenta, and the iconic Spritz, is a region rich in charm, culture, and culinary delights. Stretching from the Italian Riviera to the Venetian Pre-Alps and the stunning Dolomites, Veneto is home to both natural beauty and historic towns. Its capital, the enchanting floating city of Venice, is world-famous for its canals, gondolas, labyrinthine streets, and undeniable romance.Each of Venice's islands offers something special: admire the colorful houses of Burano, renowned for its lace-making traditions; visit Murano, celebrated for its centuries-old glassblowing artistry; and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Torcello. Exploring these islands by vaporetto (water bus) offers a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Venetian life. Tourissimo Tip–For a few more suggestions, check out Tourissimo's blog on the Venetian Lagoon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/our-favorite-destinations-in-the-venetian-lagoonBeyond Venice, Veneto boasts a treasure trove of picturesque towns. Verona, Padua, Vicenza, and Asolo each offer their own distinct history and beauty. Visit Castelfranco Veneto for a charming escape or head to Bardolino to enjoy a boat ride on Italy's largest lake, Lago di Garda. Stroll the waterfront in Castelletto sul Garda or circle the freshwater moat of Cittadella, a red-brick medieval town full of character.In the countryside, the hills of Prosecco promise stunning vineyard views, while the medieval town of Montagnana offers a taste of the past. Nature lovers can visit the volcanic Euganean Hills in Este, and cheese lovers shouldn't miss the small town of Asiago, home to one of Italy's most famous cheeses.Veneto's culinary scene shines with 34 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 29 with one star. Indulge in local specialties like Bigoli in Salsa, a hearty Venetian pasta with anchovy sauce, and toast with a glass of Prosecco, Grappa, or the regional favorite, the Select Spritz. And don't forget—Venetians love to celebrate, so let loose and join the party!Tourissimo Tips–Another fun suggestion is Veneto Marostica, the City of Chess, where they do a living chess match with hundreds of people dressed in medieval costumes every two years: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/marostica-the-city-of-chessPiedmont (Piemonte)Nestled at the foot of the Alps and bordered on three sides by the Mediterranean Sea, Piedmont is one of Italy's most underrated gems. With a diverse landscape that offers adventure and beauty year-round, this region is perfect for both winter skiing and summer hiking and biking, thanks to its stunning Alpine scenery.But Piedmont isn't just about breathtaking views—it's steeped in rich history and cultural significance. As the first capital of Italy, it boasts grand palaces, remarkable art, and sacred relics like the famed Shroud of Turin. The capital city of Turin is a vibrant hub, home to Europe's largest outdoor food market and the monthly Gran Balon flea market, a haven for vintage and antique lovers.Venture beyond the city and you'll discover a region bursting with charm and flavor. Tour the Langhe Hills, a paradise for vineyard visits, and sample Bagna Cauda, a warm anchovy and garlic dip beloved by locals. Wander the lakeside town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, or stroll the cobbled streets of Neive, where views of rolling hills and storybook cottages create an unforgettable setting. In Asti, you can witness the September medieval horse races and visit the majestic Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Gottardo. For a true fairy-tale escape, head to Macugnaga in the valley of Monte Rosa, a perfect base for both skiing and hiking. And just outside of Turin lies the hidden gem of Lake Orta, a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.Piedmont's culinary scene is just as spectacular. With 35 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 30 with one star—the region is a paradise for food lovers. Dine in Alba during white truffle season (September to January), and savor iconic regional dishes like Agnolotti del Plin and Coniglio Arrosto. Wine enthusiasts will be in heaven here—Piedmont is the land of Barolo, the "king of wines," and Barbaresco, two of Italy's most prestigious reds.Tourissimo Tips:Piedmont is home to the Slow Food movement: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/why-piedmont-is-renowned-for-its-slow-foodTourissimo Tip–Check out this blog for a guide to a day of eating in Turin: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/a-day-of-eating-in-turinTourissimo Tip–One of the Best Meals of Your Life will be at the Piazza Duomo in Alba!Emilia-RomagnaLocated in central Italy along the Adriatic coast, Emilia-Romagna is a vibrant and diverse region known for its perfect blend of “slow food” and “fast cars.” This area is considered both the culinary and automotive capital of Italy, offering rich traditions, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.Food lovers will be in heaven here. Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of iconic Italian delicacies such as Mortadella, Tortellini in Brodo, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, traditional Balsamic Vinegar, Lambrusco, and egg-based fresh pastas like lasagna, tortellini, and tagliatelle. A visit to Parma lets you savor authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano and world-class Prosciutto, as well as enjoy the elegant Teatro Regio opera house.The region also has a need for speed—it's home to legendary automotive brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati. For car enthusiasts, the Ferrari Museum in Modena is a must-see. Emilia-Romagna even has a dedicated cycling tourism office, and in summer 2023, it played host to several stages of the Tour de France, which began in nearby Florence.Beyond the food and cars, Emilia-Romagna offers a range of enchanting destinations. The capital city of Bologna is known for its Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the scenic Santuario Madonna di San Luca. In Ravenna, marvel at the dazzling, colorful mosaics and the historic San Vitale Basilica. Along the coast, vibrant seaside resorts like Cervia, Cesenatico, and Rimini create a lively, carnival-like party atmosphere from late May through September. For a more peaceful experience, explore the medieval gem of Brisighella, a lesser-known treasure full of charm.When it comes to fine dining, Emilia-Romagna doesn't disappoint. The region boasts 24 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one three-star, three two-star, and twenty one-star establishments. Visitors are often struck by the warmth and generosity of the locals—some of the most hospitable people in Italy—who express their love through exceptional food and outstanding service.Tourissimo Tips:Did you know that there is a whole other country within Emilia Romagna? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/san-marino-the-other-small-country-within-italyTourissimo Tip–Pietra di Bismantova was an inspiration for Dante: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/pietra-di-bismantova-the-inspiration-for-dantes-purgatoryTourissimo Tip–You can cross the Rubicon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/crossing-the-rubiconTrentino-South TyrolNestled along Italy's northern border with Switzerland, Trentino–South Tyrol is a stunning mountainous region that blends Italian and Austrian influences, making it a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its striking Alpine scenery, exceptional cuisine, and rich cultural duality, this region offers the best of both worlds.The South Tyrol capital, Bolzano, is renowned for having the highest quality of life in Italy, combining the clean, efficient infrastructure often associated with Germany with the flavorful food and spirited lifestyle of Italian culture.Outdoor adventurers will be captivated by the Dolomites, with their dramatic limestone peaks—ideal for hiking, skiing, and breathtaking vistas. Don't miss the Alpe di Siusi, Europe's largest Alpine meadow, which is especially stunning in spring and summer. Explore shimmering Lake Garda and uncover the region's medieval past through spectacular castles like Schloss Tirol, Castel Roncolo, and Castel d'Appiano.Tourissimo Tip–An off-the-beaten-path outdoor paradise can be found in the Alps of Trentino. Check out the Val di Sole. This is one of the areas that Beppe and Heather regularly go to on their personal vacations in Italy: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-wild-dolomitesThe culinary offerings here reflect the region's unique blend of cultures. Traditional dishes range from Bratwurst and Goulash to Italian-style pastas with hearty meats like deer. Foodies should try Speck, a savory smoked ham, perfectly paired with a glass of Gewürztraminer, a fragrant white wine native to the area. The region also produces excellent white wines and lighter reds that pair beautifully with its alpine cuisine.When it comes to fine dining, Trentino–South Tyrol excels with 33 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three three-star, five two-star, and twenty-five one-star establishments, making it one of Italy's most impressive gourmet regions.LiguriaLocated along Italy's rugged northwestern coastline, Liguria—also known as the Italian Riviera—boasts dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, and incredible culinary traditions. The region is best known for the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, as well as the glamorous resort towns of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.Tourissimo Tip– If you visit the Cinque Terre, don't forget to look up, and hike up away from the crowds to see the heroic vineyards: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-heroic-winemaking-of-the-cinque-terreBecause of the narrow, winding roads with steep drop-offs, many travelers prefer to explore the region via the local train or by public or private boat. If you're planning to hike the famous trails, be aware that entrance permits are now required due to landslides and overtourism.In the regional capital of Genoa, dive into maritime history, visit the iconic San Lorenzo Cathedral, and wander the city's old port area. Just outside Genoa, discover the secluded San Fruttuoso Abbey, accessible only by boat or footpath. In Vernazza, one of the Cinque Terre towns, visit the Doria Castle and the beautiful Santa Margherita Church.Liguria is also a celebrity hotspot, and its cuisine is just as impressive as its scenery. Known as the birthplace of pesto, the region is famous for Pesto alla Genovese, made with a special local basil. Be sure to try the region's olive oil, garlic, cheeses, and exceptional seafood, especially the anchovies. Other regional specialties include Focaccia di Recco, a cheese-filled flatbread, and lighter olive oils that perfectly complement Ligurian dishes.For fine dining, Liguria is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, all with one star, offering refined cuisine rooted in the region's coastal and agricultural traditions.Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Friuli)Tucked between Veneto, Austria, and Slovenia, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a lesser-known gem that offers a unique blend of Alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and coastal charm. The region features part of the Dolomites, ideal for hiking, skiing, and capturing breathtaking scenery.The capital, Trieste, is a refined port city with a fascinating blend of Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences. Don't miss the Miramare Castle, perched over the sea with stunning views. In Cividale del Friuli, stroll through cobbled streets and sample Frico, a savory, crispy dish made of cheese and potatoes, best enjoyed with a glass of Schioppettino, a bold red wine native to the region.For outdoor adventures and relaxation, spend a beach day at Lignano Sabbiadoro, camp in Sistiana, bike the trails around Grado, or explore the ancient Roman ruins in Aquileia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the enormous Grotta Gigante (Giant Cave), stroll through Unity of Italy Square, and tour the Revoltella Museum for modern art.Friuli-Venezia Giulia is also home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, including two two-star establishments and five one-star venues, reflecting the region's quiet but impressive culinary scene.Tourissimo Tip– A hotel that Heather and Beppe love in Cormons is La Subida. It's a unique, high-end, and rustic property nestled in nature that boasts a 1-Michelin star restaurant: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/hotels-we-love-la-subidaAosta ValleyNestled in the northwestern tip of Italy, where it borders Switzerland and France, the Aosta Valley is Italy's smallest and highest region—a true mountain paradise. This alpine jewel is renowned for its dramatic snowcapped peaks, storybook castles, and a unique blend of French and Italian culture, as both languages are spoken here.The region is home to Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco), Europe's highest peak, which straddles the borders of Italy, France, and Switzerland. While the summit lies on the French side, visitors on the Italian side can experience the Skyway Monte Bianco, a breathtaking cable car ride offering panoramic views of the Alps.Key landmarks include the striking Matterhorn, the impressive Fénis and Savoy Castles, and the Bard Fortress, one of the largest and most remarkable fortifications in the Alps. After a day in the mountains, relax in one of the region's thermal spas, and indulge in Fonduta, a rich, velvety cheese fondue perfect for chilly alpine evenings.Wine lovers should sample the region's distinctive red mountain wines, especially Enfer d'Arvier, known for its bold flavor and high-altitude character.Tourissimo Tip–A fun tradition is the Friendship Cup, a communal cup of coffee: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-friendship-cup-of-valle-daostaCentral Italy: History, Art, and Rolling HillsTuscany (Toscana)Tuscany, the heart of the Renaissance, is a captivating region of rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, vineyards, and timeless art and architecture. Located just below Italy's northern regions, it's a haven for art lovers, history buffs, and food and wine enthusiasts alike. From Chianti to Brunello di Montalcino, the region offers a wide variety of world-class wines.The regional capital, Florence, is one of Italy's most walkable and safe major cities, making it ideal for solo travelers. Admire its architectural wonders while sipping on Chianti Classico and indulging in a local favorite—Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Must-see landmarks in Florence include the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David. For iconic views, head to Piazzale Michelangelo.Beyond Florence, explore the historic cities of Siena, Lucca, and San Gimignano, each offering its own charm. Don't miss the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Siena Cathedral, and spend time in the picturesque public squares like Piazza del Campo, Piazza della Signoria, and Piazza del Duomo.For off-the-beaten-path adventures, discover medieval hilltop villages such as Sorano, or head to the Maremma coast for scenic beaches and bold wines. Tuscany also shines in its culinary excellence, boasting 41 Michelin-starred restaurants—including 1 three-star, 5 two-star, and 35 one-star establishments.Tourissimo Tip–3 places in Tuscany you didn't know existed: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/three-places-in-tuscany-you-did-not-know-existedUmbriaUmbria, often called the "Green Heart of Italy," is the country's only completely landlocked region, nestled between Tuscany, Lazio, and Le Marche. Though it lacks large cities, Umbria more than makes up for it with breathtaking natural beauty, medieval towns, and a rich culinary tradition.One of Umbria's most impressive sights is the Cascata delle Marmore (Marmore Falls)—the second tallest waterfall in Europe. Nature lovers and photographers alike will be amazed by its dramatic 165-meter drop. The region is also home to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy's most revered saints, and a major pilgrimage destination.Food lovers will delight in Umbria's hearty, earthy cuisine, featuring lentils, mushroom-based dishes, cured meats, and the prized black truffle (Tartufo Nero di Norcia). Pair these specialties with a glass of Sagrantino di Montefalco, a robust red wine unique to the region.Umbria's culinary excellence is further reflected in its four Michelin-starred restaurants: Casa Vissani, Vespasia, Ada, and Elementi. Each holds one Michelin star, offering refined takes on the region's rustic flavors.Tourissimo Tip–Norcia is definitely one of Italy's culinary gems: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/norcia-one-of-italys-culinary-gemsMarcheLocated in central Italy on the Adriatic side, Marche is a beautiful region with a population of 1 million people, known for its charming towns, rich history, and welcoming, hardworking culture. The region offers stunning destinations like Urbino and Ancona, along with pristine beaches such as Spiaggia della Due Sorelle, Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo, Mezzavalle, and the Riviera del Conero, not to mention many picturesque nature reserves.Must-see landmarks include Castello di Gradara, Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, the Sanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto, Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, Tempio del Valadier, and the breathtaking underground Frasassi Caves. Marche's favorite cities and nearby towns also include Gubbio, Assisi, Perugia, Orvieto, and Cascia.For those drawn to religious history, highlights include the Papal Basilica of Saint Francis, the Sacred Convent of Saint Francis, Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, and Basilica di Santa Chiara in Assisi, as well as the Basilica of Santa Rita da Cascia. History lovers should visit Rocca Paolina, Piazza IV Novembre, Fontana Maggiore, Piazza del Comune, and Grotta di Monte Cucco, while museums like Narni Sotterranea, the National Gallery, and Nobile Collegio del Cambio offer rich cultural experiences.This region is famous for its culinary tradition, especially its mastery of seafood, and is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants — including Uliassi in Senigallia, proudly holding three Michelin stars, along with one two-star and five one-star establishments. No visit would be complete without tasting Olive all'Ascolana, fried stuffed olives that perfectly capture Marche's local flavor. All of this, combined with the region's natural beauty and warm, fun, and friendly locals, makes Marche a truly unforgettable destination in the heart of Italy.Tourissimo Tip–Ascoli Piceno, the town where the Ascoli olive is from, is beautiful, especially at night when it appears to glow: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/ascoli-piceno-the-italian-town-that-glows-at-nightLazioLazio, one of Italy's central regions, though often considered a southern region by Italians, is a place rich with history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. At its heart is the capital city of Rome, a destination overflowing with opportunities for exploration. Essential sites include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and countless other remarkable attractions. No visit to Rome is complete without savoring its famous dishes, including Cacio e Pepe — a creamy cheese and pepper pasta — along with local favorites like Spaghetti alla Gricia, Pasta all'Amatriciana, and Pasta Carbonara, best enjoyed with a glass of crisp Frascati wine while taking in views of the Colosseum. Lazio as a whole has 107 two-star Michelin restaurants and 105 one-star restaurants. If you find yourself in the Trastevere neighborhood, there are many wonderful popular restaurants, including La Scaletta and Le Mani in Pasta.Another must-see is Vatican City, home to the Vatican and its world-renowned religious and artistic treasures. In December 2025, Rome will host the Jubilee, or Holy Year — a significant Catholic Church event focused on forgiveness, reconciliation, and spiritual renewal, held only once every 25 years and drawing pilgrims from across the globe.Beyond Rome, Lazio offers a beautiful coastline and peaceful countryside, perfect for travelers seeking quieter escapes. Among its hidden gems is Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman city that once served as the bustling port of Rome, located at the mouth of the Tiber River. With its blend of legendary landmarks, culinary traditions, religious significance, and off-the-beaten-path treasures, Lazio is a captivating region waiting to be explored.Tourissimo Tip–There's a wonderful project underway to create a cycle path around the perimeter of Rome: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/cycling-in-rome-grab-a-bike-and-bike-the-grabAbruzzoAbruzzo, known as Italy's green region, lies in the central-eastern part of the country and boasts a stunning combination of mountains, coastline, and unspoiled nature. Along the beautiful Trabocchi Coast, visitors can admire the historic trabocchi — ingenious wooden fishing structures built by fishermen centuries ago to safely fish the Adriatic waters, many of which have now been converted into charming seaside restaurants where you can dine on fresh seafood while suspended above the waves with sunsets as your backdrop. When it comes to dining, Abruzzo currently boasts four Michelin-starred restaurants; there are three 1-star restaurants and one 3-star restaurant. Food lovers shouldn't miss Arrosticini, the region's famous grilled lamb skewers, or a glass of bold Montepulciano d'Abruzzo red wine. Outdoor enthusiasts have countless opportunities for adventure, from swimming at the Stiffe Caves and strolling the Ponte del Mare to relaxing on the beaches of Riserva Naturale Guidata Punta Aderci and hiking to the iconic Rocca Calascio. Lakeside escapes await at Lago di Scanno and Lago di Barrea, while the towering Gran Sasso d'Italia and the expansive Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo, and Lazio e Molise offer breathtaking scenery and pristine trails. The region is home to many national parks — Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise National Park, Gran Sasso and Laga Mountains National Park, and Maiella National Park — perfect for hiking, biking, trail running, and spotting the highest peaks of the Apennine Mountain Range. Cyclists can enjoy the Bike to Coast cycle path, a 131 km (81.4 mile) route running along the Adriatic coast from Pescara to Vasto. History and architecture lovers will appreciate sites like Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio, Centro Storico di Sulmona, Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere, and the Medieval Village of Pacentro. For a uniquely tranquil experience, visit the enchanting Gardens of Ninfa. Abruzzo is also a fabulous winter skiing destination and keeps traditions alive with events like Transumanza, the seasonal migration of livestock, primarily sheep, between the high-altitude pastures of the region. With its mountain majesty, historic villages, flavorful cuisine, and coastal charm, Abruzzo offers something unforgettable for every traveler.Tourissimo Tips:More info on the trabocchi coast: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/abruzzos-trabocchi-coastAbruzzo Bike to Coast is a beautiful bike path along the coast: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/cycling-along-abruzzos-coastMoliseOne of Italy's most untouched and lesser-known regions, Molise is famously nicknamed “the region that doesn't exist,” though it's rich in history, traditions, and natural beauty. This quiet region offers a mix of beaches and mountains, including part of the National Park of Abruzzo within the Apennines mountain range, filled with abundant wildlife, hiking trails, and winter ski opportunities. Tourissimo Tip–The Region That Doesn't Exist: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-italian-region-that-doesnt-existThe capital city, Campobasso, is home to notable sites like Monforte Castle and several Romanesque churches, while the charming coastal town of Termoli draws visitors for its beaches, trabucchi (historic fishing huts now serving fresh seafood), and local specialties like brodetto, a traditional seafood stew. Along the Molise coast in Termoli, dining at a trabucchi offers fresh catches with a side of Adriatic views. History buffs should visit the Samnite ruins in the Pietrabbondante archaeological area, the well-preserved Saepinum Archaeological Area, and landmarks like Lago di Castel San Vincenzo, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Purification, Monforte Castle, and the Basilica of Saint Mary of Sorrow. A must-see is the Marinelli Bell Foundry, founded in 1339. It's the oldest continuously operating bell foundry in the world, Italy's oldest family business, and the official provider of bells to the Vatican. Food lovers can sample Cavatelli, a local pasta specialty, paired with Tintilia, a rare red wine unique to Molise. The region is also home to seven one-star Michelin restaurants and several local food tours that showcase its rustic culinary traditions. While Molise's quiet charm and untouched landscapes make it a special destination, visitors should note that English is not widely spoken, making it a truly authentic Italian experience for those eager to explore one of the country's hidden gems.Southern Italy: Sun, Sea, and Ancient WondersCampania The birthplace of Neapolitan pizza, the Mediterranean Diet, and Mozzarella di Bufala, Campania is one of Italy's most vibrant and culturally rich regions. Home to the bustling regional capital Naples (Napoli), it boasts some of the country's most iconic destinations, including Pompeii, the stunning Amalfi Coast, and the tranquil Cilento Coast.Along the sparkling, deep-blue waters of the Golfo di Napoli, you'll find must-visit coastal towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, as well as the famous islands of Ischia, Capri, and the colorful Procida. Visitors can hike the breathtaking Path of the Gods, explore the hauntingly preserved ruins of Archaeological Pompeii, forever shadowed by the gray cone of Mt. Vesuvius, and savor the region's culinary gems like ultra-fresh seafood and crisp Falanghina wine.History and culture lovers shouldn't miss Sansevero Chapel Museum, San Carlo Theatre, the Catacombs of San Gennaro, and the lush Villa Cimbrone Gardens. Campania also impresses with its historic castles, including the Royal Palace of Caserta, Ovo Castle, and Castello Aragonese d'Ischia. Wine enthusiasts should head to the province of Avellino, known for producing some of the best wines in southern Italy.Tourissimo Tip–Wine is also grown inland on the Amalfi Coast, and there are some vines that are 250 years old (pre-phylloxera): https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/old-vines-on-the-amalfi-coastNature lovers will be drawn to the Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and cultural heritage, featuring ancient ruins like Paestum and Velia, the majestic Padula Charterhouse, and idyllic coastal villages.Campania is also a paradise for food lovers, home to 51 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one three-star, eight two-star, and forty-two one-star establishments. From world-famous landmarks to hidden treasures, Campania offers an irresistible blend of history, nature, food, and coastal charm.CalabriaWith its rugged coastlines, dramatic landscapes, and hidden treasures, Calabria is a must-visit region in southern Italy. Known for its bold flavors and rich culinary traditions, visitors should sample 'Nduja, a spicy, spreadable sausage paste, and the region's famous Calabrian chiles. The local cuisine embraces cucina povera, a tradition of simple, hearty dishes featuring handmade pasta made with just flour and water. Calabria offers a growing fine dining scene with six one-star Michelin restaurants. For nature lovers, Calabria is home to three stunning national parks — Sila, Aspromonte, and Pollino — ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing in untouched landscapes. Along the coast, Capo Vaticano stands out as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, offering breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters. History buffs and castle enthusiasts can explore impressive fortresses like Castello Ruffo di Scilla, Castello Murat, Castello di Le Castella, and Castello Aragonese. Don't miss charming towns and villages such as Tropea, famous for its clifftop views and beaches, as well as Scilla, Pentedattilo, and Le Castella. With its authentic culture, stunning coastlines, flavorful cuisine, and rich history, Calabria remains one of Italy's most captivating yet underrated regions.Tourissimo Tip–Way off the beaten path, lies a  unique museum in Mammola, Calabria https://calabriastraordinaria.it/en/news/visit-to-musaba-the-sistine-chapel-of-calabriaPugliaKnown as the Maldives of Italy, Puglia is a sun-drenched region celebrated for its whitewashed hill towns, ancient olive groves, and miles of stunning coastline. With a dry Mediterranean climate and scenery that often feels more Greek than Italian, Puglia is famed for its beaches in Salento, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns. One of its most iconic sights is the fairytale-like trulli houses of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is also a food lover's paradise, offering specialties like Orecchiette pasta with turnip greens, the classic Fave e Cicoria (fava bean purée with wild chicory), and fresh seafood paired with crisp vegetables. Wine lovers can savor Primitivo, a bold local red. For fine dining, the region boasts nine one-star Michelin restaurants, blending rustic flavors with refined culinary creativity.Puglia is dotted with unique cities and towns worth exploring, including Locorotondo, Otranto, Lecce, Monopoli, Ostuni, Gallipoli, Bari, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare. Nature and history enthusiasts will enjoy visiting extraordinary sites like the Grotte di Castellana, the dramatic Cave of Poetry, the ancient Basilica San Nicola, and the scenic Gargano Peninsula. With its thousand-year-old olive trees, Puglia is the largest olive oil producer in the world, known for its strong, spicy oils. The locals here are famously warm and welcoming, going out of their way to make visitors feel at home.Puglia's blend of natural beauty, rich tradition, and heartfelt hospitality makes it one of Italy's most captivating and underrated destinations.Tourissimo Tip–Here are some of the gems of Puglia: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/some-of-the-gems-of-pugliaBasilicataBasilicata, a remote yet captivating region with a population of just 500,000, offers a wealth of unique experiences despite its secluded location. Among its most intriguing destinations are the ghost town of Craco and the ancient cave city of Matera, both steeped in history and cinematic charm. Other towns worth visiting include Maratea and Palombaroa, each offering its own cultural and scenic appeal.Tourissimo Tip–Matera is magical! https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/destination-highlight-matera-the-city-of-stonesThe region is rich in historical and religious landmarks, such as the Crypt of Original Sin with its remarkable frescoes, and the medieval Melfi Castle. Don't miss the towering Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Maratea, a striking monument that overlooks the Tyrrhenian coast.For a taste of local flavor, try Peperoni Cruschi—crispy, sun-dried peppers that are a beloved regional delicacy. Basilicata is also known for its exceptional wines, especially the bold, full-bodied reds of Aglianico del Vulture DOC, made primarily from the Aglianico grape. White wine lovers will appreciate the region's Greco di Tufo and Fiano varietals as well. Basilicata also has a total of 14 one-star Michelin restaurants. Adventurers can experience an adrenaline rush on The Angel's Flight, a giant zip line that offers stunning views and a thrilling ride through the Lucanian landscape.SicilySicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a world of its own, offering a diverse landscape of coastlines, mountains, and magical towns such as Cefalù, Palermo, Taormina, Catania, Noto, Agrigento, and Syracuse. Palermo serves as the cultural and diplomatic capital of the region, while Catania stands as its business hub.A volcanic island and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sicily boasts a rich collection of cultural and natural treasures. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, the active volcano Mount Etna, the stunning Duomo di Cefalù, and the picturesque islands of Stromboli, Bella, and Ortigia. The region is also home to the renowned Baroque Triangle in the Val di Noto region of southeastern Sicily, where the eight towns of Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa, and Scicli have been recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding examples of late Baroque architecture.Sicily's culinary scene is just as impressive. Indulge in traditional Sicilian cannoli, filled with sheep's milk ricotta cheese and always stuffed fresh to order. Take a street food tour to savor local favorites like arancini, and don't miss sipping on a glass of Nero d'Avola, one of Sicily's most famous wines. The region is also internationally celebrated for its top-tier agriculture and winemaking.For a taste of authentic Italian charm beyond the tourist trail, explore the towns featured in I Borghi Più Belli d'Italia—Italy's list of its most beautiful hidden gems. Tourissimo Tip–This is a great tip for all 20 regions of Italy. Find out more here: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-italyFood lovers will be delighted to know that Sicily is also home to 23 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three two-star establishments and twenty with one star.Tourissimo Tip–If you visit Corleone, you should definitely learn about the legacy of the Mafia. We in North America tend to have a romanticized view of the mafia, but for the locals, the history is more brutal. See some photos and learn more here: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/letizia-battaglia-groundbreaking-photojournalist-who-fearlessly-documented-the-mafia-in-her-native-sicilySardiniaSardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily, is a rugged, rural paradise known for its natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and ancient history. The island is home to features like the Apennine Coast, the Adriatic Coast, and the Apennine Mountains. Most of Sardinia's population lives in the capital region of Cagliari, but much of the island remains untouched, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic Italian island life.One of Sardinia's most fascinating distinctions is that the Barbagia region is recognized as a Blue Zone—an area with an unusually high number of centenarians. This longevity is attributed to the region's healthy diet, active lifestyle, and strong sense of community. For outdoor enthusiasts, inland Sardinia offers some of the best biking and hiking experiences in all of Italy.Tourissimo Tip–What is a Blue Zone? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/blue-zoneThe island's coastlines are just as enticing. Costa Smeralda is often described as paradise on earth, with stunning beaches like Spiaggia di Tuerredda, Cala Goloritzé, and Spiaggia di Porto Giunco perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Don't miss the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park (Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena), a protected area with crystal-clear waters and pristine landscapes.Charming towns such as Alghero, Bosa, and Cagliari add to the island's appeal. Many of Sardinia's towns are nestled in the mountains located in the island's center, offering a peaceful and scenic escape.Cultural and historical attractions abound. Must-see sites include the Nora Archaeological Park, Bastione di Saint Remy, Parco Archeologico Naturalistico di Santa Cristina, and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Cagliari. For an unforgettable natural wonder, venture into the Frecce delle grotte srl and Neptune's Grotto, stunning sea caves accessible by boat or stairs carved into cliffs.Sardinia is also home to a unique ancient civilization. Scattered across the island are over 7,000 nuraghe—megalithic stone structures built during the Nuragic Age (c. 1900–730 BC). These mysterious, tower-like buildings are the island's most iconic symbol, and some scholars believe there were once over 10,000 nuraghe structures in total.Religious architecture also impresses, with highlights like the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e Santa Cecilia, the Church of the Holy Trinity of Saccargia, and the Basilica di San Simplicio showcasing Sardinia's spiritual and artistic heritage.Sardinian cuisine reflects its mountainous geography. Surprisingly, for an island, the diet leans more toward land-based ingredients than seafood. Signature dishes include Porceddu (roast pig), Fregola (a traditional Sardinian pasta), and the adventurous Casu marzu—a sheep's milk cheese intentionally infested with live maggots and considered a local delicacy. Sardinia also holds 16 one-star Michelin restaurants.To accompany these flavors, try a glass of Cannonau red wine, known for its high polyphenol content and potential health benefits, or the refreshing Vermentino white wine, perfect for warm Mediterranean days.Tourissimo Tip–Magic Trick or Pasta Making? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/magic-trick-or-pasta-making From the Alps to the Mediterranean, each Italian region is a world of its own. Want to see it all? Check out Tourissimo's amazing trip planning and Italian information at tourissimo.travel! Buon viaggio!From the Alps to the Mediterranean, each Italian region is a world of its own. Want to see it all? Check out Tourissimo's amazing trip planning and Italian information at tourissimo.travel! Buon viaggio! 

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How is God at work amid ongoing fighting since Russia's invasion of Ukraine? Eric Mock, from the Slavic Gospel Association, wants to remind us that the gospel is going forth as Christians stay faithful to serve the Lord in spite of difficulties and hardship. He'll share stories of Ukrainian pastors who kept up their ministries, even with Russian tanks outside their homes. The Slavic Gospel Association (SGA) started in 1934, built on a foundation of prayer with a heart to reach those behind the Iron Curtain with the gospel. One of the ministry's early effort was a dictation-speed recitation of the Bible broadcast over shortwave radio—allowing believers in Russia and other Soviet nations to create their own hand-written Bibles. (The Voice of the Martyrs has a similar broadcast reaching into North Korea today.) Hear more about SGA's history and how the Lord brought Eric to serve there in 2002 to support local churches and other ministries in 13 countries. He will describe how the fall of the Iron Curtain led to revival but then how consumerism later lessened revival fires. Eric challenges all of us to see the examples of our brothers and sisters in Ukraine who are ministering and risking their lives for the sake of the gospel. Pray that the gospel would continue to go forth in Russia, Ukraine and other nations in the region, and that Christians would stay faithful through hardship. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.