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After a prominent life filled with passion and adventure ends with the death of her brilliant but volatile husband, a woman journeys to Guatemala to heal, only to be captured, and her fight to survive transforms her life forever. Today's episode featured Brenda Coffee. You can email Brenda at bcoffee@1010parkplace.com. She is on Instagram @1010ParkPlace. Visit her website at brenda-coffee.com.Brenda is the author of MAYA BLUE: A Memoir of Survival, published 05/25, a memoir that reads like a thriller. It is Working Girl meets Taken. A true story of love, cocaine, Big Tobacco, abduction, and survival. Nominated for the 2025 Kirkus Prize and included on Maria Shriver's 2025 Summer Reads list. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings: parentification, domestic violence, intimate partner abuse, drug making and using, addiction, gun violence, sexual assault/attempted rape, child exploitation, cancer & illness, death & grief, explicit language Social Media:Instagram: @actuallyhappeningTwitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.comWebsite for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott VelasquezMusic Bed: Ambient Themes ServicesIf you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Polarization & PlayPolarization (def)—division into two sharply contrasting groups, sets of opinions or beliefs. When we stop seeing similarity or what is shared, but only see difference. When difference becomes a threat.Play (def)— to engage in something for enjoyment or for sport. Be cooperative. Try something out.I want to say, we are living in a polarized time. But I find myself questioning each word. I look for polarization and find it in my social media feed, in the news, in my own inner dialogue —as certain views and opinions claim their rightness about what I should or should not do, believe or say.But, I don't see such polarization in the setting sun, the migrating monarch butterfly who is sitting on this sunflower, here in my front garden. It seems like the monarch, the sun, the sky and serenading cicadas are not so concerned with the rifts of mind or media feed.Is it disrespectful to place play near the gravity of polarization, when Webster warns that play has nothing to do with serious things and when politicians are using words like “civil war?”Play is actually an important quality for awakening, for living in divisiveness—for it is an invitation to bring curiosity to righteousness, shame spirals, fear loops and the other players in polarized thinking.Play as LiberationThe play I want to invite is the play of liberation. The play that is invoked in the Mahayana Sutra of Vimalakirti. A sutra that emerged in an in-between-time in Buddhist history. Where there were forces in power who believed they had the “right” teachings, the correct practices to transcend this painful world of suffering and enter nirvana.Yet another view was emerging right in the midst of the dominant one. A view that seemed to turn the whole tradition on its head. A view, a practice, a teaching that pointed to the profound path of liberation that could be recognized by seeing through all views—awakening to the empty-yet-apparent nature of all form and concept. This view pointed to a liberation that was based in the direct experience of interdependence, where no one is separate from anyone else—where this world and this body are the place and vehicle for living an awakened life. This was the emergence of the way of the bodhisattva.An Extraordinary ImprobabilityThe teaching came through a sick man living the life of a householder in India. His name was Vimalakirti and was considered a great bodhisattva and teacher of the non-dual way. When asked why he was sick Vimalakirti replied: “I am sick, because the world is sick.”Joan Sutherland in her book Vimalakirti and The Awakened Heart says this about the Bodhisattva. “Vimalakirti embodies a number of provocative dualities in addition to being a sick bodhisattva: he's a rich man who gives all of his money to the poor, someone who lives among family, but remains solitary, has children and frequents brothels but remains celibate, goes to bars, but doesn't get drunk…The koans speak of him as an extraordinary improbability.”The sutra in its in-between-ness is considered a precursor to both the koan tradition of Chan and the tantric tradition of the Vajrayana. The sutra has well-known characters from the Buddhist pantheon such as the elder monk Shariputra and the Bodhisattva Manjushri engaging in discourse with this layman Vimalakirti and the goddess who happens to live in his room completely unseen until the middle of the story.The Goddess's TransformationsAt some point in the story the goddess makes her appearance, and we are told that she had always been there (another nod to the incipient koan tradition: how can someone who has always been here, appear?)As she appears flowers rain down, falling to the feet of the Bodhisattvas but sticking to the robes of the elder monks. Shariputra is quite disturbed by this flower affixing itself to his robe—he has made a vow not to adorn himself with the fragrance and flamboyance of a flower.The goddess engages him here, asking him to show her the nature of flowerness.Their conversation spans topics such as the nature of self-obsession and liberation, before Shariputra asks the goddess why she continues to be a woman, when surely being male would be preferable for she would have a chance at liberation.This opens up a dialogue captured in Case 58 of the Hidden Lamp“I have looked for the innate characteristics of the female form to no avail. How can I change them? If a magician created the illusion of a woman, would you ask her, “Why don't you transform yourself out of your female state?”Shariputra replied, “No. Such a woman would not really exist, so what would there be to transform?”She said, “Just so. All things do not really exist, so how can you ask something that doesn't exist to change its form?”Then the goddess, by supernatural power, changed Shariputra into a likeness of herself and changed herself into a likeness of Shariputra and asked, “Why don't you transform yourself out of your female state?”Shariputra cried, “I no longer appear in the form of a male! My body has changed into a woman's body! I don't know what to transform!”She replied, “Just as you are not really a woman but appear to be female in form, all women appear to be female in form but are not really women. Therefore, Buddha said that all beings are not really women or men.”Then she changed Shariputra back into his own form and asked, “And where is your female form now?”My teacher Chozen Roshi writes the commentary to this case and opens saying: “Once someone asked me, “In India it is said that you cannot be enlightened it you are a woman. What does Zen say about this?” I answered, “In Zen practice we say that in order to be enlightened, you must become completely a woman, completely a man, both, and neither.”The Four Positions of PolarizationChozen's response is an articulation of Rinzai's four positions. It's an expression of the flexibility of heart that we train in, in koan practice. It's a practice for recognizing the empty-yet-apparent nature of all concepts and forms and unsticking from our habitual ways of seeing the world.What is it to be completely A, completely B, both and neither?This is something we can explore anytime we have a set of opposites or polarized parts of us. This could be explored in a conflict with another person, an inner conflict, as koan exploration or as dream/soul work.To use the koan above as an example, here is a step-by-step way you might explore the polarity of Shariputra and the Goddess. Feel free to journal, draw or move between these positions in a more embodied way. Or listen to the audio above for verbal guidance on these steps.* Let yourself inhabit the position of Shariputra and shift your position slightly to the right. This could be the part of us that wants to do it right, is disciplined, has a sense of the rules, feels self-righteous. Let yourself feel your inner Shariputra. What does it feel like in the body to want to do it right or to feel self-righteous? What feelings are you aware of? What fears or wants? If you could speak as Shariputra what would you say? Now let go of Shariputra and come back to center.* Now move to the left and let yourself inhabit the position of the Goddess. The Goddess is a more sensual part of us, she embodies prajna wisdom, playfulness, a certain kind of faith that all is OK. Let yourself feel your inner goddess. What does it feel like in your body to embody faith, sensuality, playfulness, prajna wisdom? What feelings are you aware of? Are there fears or wants? If you could speak as the goddess, what would you say? Now let go of the goddess and come back to center.* Now reconnect with both Shariputra and the goddess. Let yourself feel both of these parts in your body at once. Notice what it is like to have them both present—not needing to choose a side or be one or the other, just allowing both energies. What do you notice?* Now let them both go. You might energetically step back, or imagine emptying out. Be a hollow bamboo tube or empty space. Nothing you need to do, just rest in the after glow of the journey. Notice what you see from this perspective of being no one in particular.Take a moment to notice your breath, move your body, shake out or stretch and come back to the felt sense of your body right here and now. Ground in your senses. Thanks for trying on this practice! You might take a moment to journal about anything you noticed or simply feel what it feels like in your body now.In koan work as well as working with personal material, there are always layers to the exploration. We meet or become aware of what perspectives feel more familiar and which ones we are more averse to, afraid of or resistant to feeling. This is a training in holding views lightly and seeing into the nature of perspective/part. Sometimes in describing koan work teachers talk about “the third thing”, not either A or B, but C.This movement between being fully A, fully B, both and neither allows new perspectives to emerge. It allows us to move more freely though the spectrum of being and to appreciate the flexibility of our open hearts. When I do IFS with clients, we often discover that the parts of us that seem polarized, often want the same thing for us—they just have really different strategies or beliefs about how to get it. To see this, often awakens openness + compassion—a third thing—which allows for transformation and healing.This practice is practical and mysterious—its an invitation to play in the mystery of being and to stay open to the possibility that exists within apparent polarities.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and Hakomi (somatic mindfulness). I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.I currently have a few openings in my Spiritual Counseling practice for the Fall. I offer a four-session intro package for $250.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe
Greetings Friends,I have a deep love and appreciation for the wonderment and creativity of this life. It's un-pin-down-able, slippery, un-define-able—like a water color painting that continuously repaints itself.One story from the Zen tradition that has always helped me stay awake to amazement and in courtship with the great mystery is the Zen Mirror of Tokeiji.A partial-telling of which can be found in Case 34 of the Hidden Lamp.The convent of Tokeiji had a great mirror. The founding abbess, Kakuzan Shido, would meditate before it in order to “see into her own nature.” Later generations of nuns would practice zazen in front of the mirror, concentrating on the question: “Where is a single feeling, a single thought, in the mirror image at which I gaze?” Each abbess of Tokeiji wrote a verse in response to the mirror practice. The following verse was composed by the fifth abbess Princess Yodo:Heart unclouded, heart clouded;standing or falling, it is still the same body.When I was first introduced to this story it was during a silent meditation retreat, and we were invited to sit as this great mirror in the mirror hall. The invitation to be a mirror was a powerful pointing out instruction for me.In the invitation to be a mirror, I glimpsed the mirror-like-nature of Mind.The aspect of Being that is clear, open and all-inclusive.The reflections of mind, body and heart danced inside this mirror together with the reflections of other bodies, the floorboards and the sound of the birds. The Heart-Mirror didn't have preference for any of it, allowing pain to co-mingle with ecstasy, judgment to merge with the electrical hum and blowing wind. I was all of it— nothing left out.In a strange unfolding of circumstances I inherited an old mirror from one of the deceased residents at the assisted-living facility I was working at while still in training at Great Vow. I started practicing mirror-gazing in my small dorm room, the old mirror propped up against my cubicle-board wall. Since inheriting that old mirror the practice of mirror gazing has continued to evolve in my life, practice and teaching. In 2020 Jogen Sensei and I led a sesshin where we took up the Mirror practice of Tokeiji—encouraging participants to gaze at their own face in the round mirrors we taped to the backs of chairs. The practice of mirror-gazing is much like the practice of zazen, in that it opens as we stay with it. Although often non-linear many people find in both seated meditation and in mirror-gazing that they move through various stages in the practice.Below is a sampling of some of the phases of practice people often move through in both mirror-gazing and seated meditation. In both practices we endeavor to stay in present moment experience, in mirror-gazing we take the mirror as our support for meditation, in zazen the support may be breath, sound, the felt sense of the body or some other aspect of the present moment.* Meeting mind's reactivity—we start to see all the ways the mind doesn't want to stay, it flits here and there, gets caught in circles of judgment, resistance, planning. In mirror gazing we may meet the harsh critics who want to pick apart our faces.* Settling—if we stay with the practice, continuing to come back to just seeing. We may start to experience our bodies and faces more like the mirror does— without reactivity or judgment simply seeing the color, textures, shapes of what is in front of it. We may even experience compassion, love, tenderness or simply equanimity for this face that looks back at us. This also happens in zazen, where peace and acceptance opens up for whatever experience we are having.* Inquiry—As the thinking mind settles and space opens up curiosity can be engaged with. The women of Tokeiji practiced with the breakthrough koan: Where is there a single feeling, a single thought in this mirror image which I gaze? Is this reflection thinking? Does this reflection have feelings? Where are the thoughts that you are aware of? The feelings? Are they too reflections in this great mirror of awareness?* Mirror Awareness—whether mirror gazing or practicing zazen sometimes we wake-up to the mirror-like quality of awareness itself. In mirror-gazing it can happen when we notice the clarity and spaciousness of the mirror itself. Our Mind's are like this clear and open mirror.Every woman who came to train at Tokeiji practiced mirror gazing, and would write a poem expressing the insights that came through from engaging with this practice. The poems of the women who became abbess became part of an emerging koan curriculum unique to this temple.Below are three poems from the Abbesses. The nuns living at Tokeiji would meditate on their poems and then would be asked to demonstrate their understanding without using words, but through their bodies.The poem of the sixth teacher, Ninbo:Even without any mirror to reflect the things,Every time one looks, there is a mirror reflecting them in theHeart.The poem of the third teacher, ShotakuAs night falls, no more reflections in the mirror,Yet in this heart they are clearly seen.Poem of the seventh teacher RyodoIf one asks where the reflections in the pure mirror go whenthey vanish,Do you declare their hiding-place?Listen to the Dharma Talk for a more in-depth exploration of this story. I share some reflections from the commentary in the Hidden Lamp, by Zenju Earthlyn Manuel and also some from Ruth Ozeki's book The Face: A Time-Code.If you take up the practice of mirror-gazing or sitting as a mirror, I would love to hear your reflections or feel free to share your own mirror-poem.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and Hakomi (somatic mindfulness). I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.This coming week we will be exploring case 25 & case 33 (Nyozen's Pale Moon of Dawn and Bodhidharma's flesh)Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe
Today on the program, we're revisiting interviews with local authors to help you find your next favorite read.
Edge God In Podcast 294: Summer Reads: Victory Over Vice: Pride and Greed EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: Explore how pride and greed increase stress and disconnection, and practice applying Emotional Intelligence in Christ - Identity in Christ, Self-Control, Altruistic Attitude, and Christ Connections - to build humility, peace, and stronger relationships. Scriptures: James 4:6 | 1 John 3:1 | 2 Timothy 1:7 | Philippians 2:3 | John 3:30, 15:5 | Colossians 3:2 | 1 Corinthians 15:58 Prayer: Jesus remind me of whose I am...I am created by you and for you with love for love. Give me victory over the vice of pride and greed which create so much stress in my life. I desire you alone, forgive me for looking outside of myself for what already exists within me: my sense of worth and value which is grounded in you. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: Victory Over Vice Summer Read Referenced: Victory Over Vice, By Fulton Sheen Support Resources: Searching for and Maintaining Inner Peace by Father Jacques Philippe 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out! By Lauren E Miller Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You! Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
Hello Good Friends,It's late summer and I can feel the seasonal shift. Here in the northern states the Earth is darkening earlier and staying dark later, its cooler too. The humidity has dropped and the insects have grown quieter in my central ohio village. The tomatoes, peaches, corn, and zucchini are in abundance, the pawpaws are ripening and chicken-of-the-woods are blazing orange on fallen logs. We even found some huitlacoche! What seasonal shifts are happening where you are?What are you harvesting?Part of what I appreciate about the hellenistic and modern astrological systems is that they are tuned into these subtle seasonal shifts that happen monthly. As they track the apparent movement of the Sun as seen from Earth.As earth-dwellers our lives are dependent on the Sun, and as the Sun appears to move through the sky—changing its range throughout the year (at least for those of us who live at a distance from the equator). We feel it, the plants and animals feel it. Even as our modern lives tick-on—we experience the seasons in quite significant ways.The change from summer to late summer is one I have always felt the strongest. The long days, hot sun, increased opportunities for connection, travel and creative expression which in the heart of summer feel like they will never end (oh the magical thinking, generosity and wonders of fixed fire, leo). Finally give way to the grace of the setting sun, lingering shadows, ripening fruits and dryer days of late summer, with its back-to-school reminders (that I feel even though its been almost twenty years since I personally followed the academic rhythms).I find my inner hermit tugging at the heart—inviting me to conserve, prioritize, remember what is essential. Though the light of the sun is falling lower on the horizon, the light of the heart is awake. This is the time of year assigned to virgo, mutable earth, the virgin, the hermit, the cultivator, the servant, the healer, the practical witch.A body exposed to the golden wind! —Zen Teacher Yunmen.Do you feel the seasons shift in your body too?My local sangha, Mud Lotus, invited virgo season in with a vocal toning practice this past Friday on the new moon. Vocal toning is a practice of letting voice, body, breath and awareness join together with the soundscape of other voices, bodies and breath. Folks who participated shared about the seeming magic of releasing their bodies and minds to sound and were surprised at the soundscapes that emerged with rich and layered emotional textures, as our bodies released, opened, shuttered and at times felt stuck. Others noted how their thoughts asked: how does my voice fit here? before releasing into the collective breath where each tone, each voice, each body, each block has a place.The practice of toning has always been a part of my spiritual practice, and it feels good to be continuing that practice with local community here.Our Monday night online sangha is continuing with the Summer Read of The Hidden Lamp, as we move into this late summer time.This week as the dark moon started to reveal her growing crescent light. We read Nyozen's Pale Moon of Dawn.The nun Nyozen of Tokeiji used to meditate on the enlightenment poem of Chiyono as her theme for realization:With this and that I tried to keep the bucket together,And then the bottom fell out.Where water does not collectThe moon does not dwell.Later, Nyozen grasped the essence of Zen, and she presented this poem to her teacher:The bottom fell out of the bucketOf that woman of humble birthThe pale moon of dawnIs caught in the rain puddles.While the full moon in Zen is an image of our true nature. We asked, what about the dark moon? Which often represents—endings and new beginnings—the unknown, the mystery of death and birth.How do we stay connected to the moon when we can not see them?How do we stay connected to the path of awakening when it seems to be happening in the dark of our unconscious, when it seems like we aren't making any progress, when we don't know what is going on?The poems are written by two women who have never met. Nyozen meditated on Chiyono's poem as a koan. This is part of the mystery of transmission in the Zen tradition. We hear the words and stories of our ancestors, and at times we feel invited, called to spend time with a line, a story, a poem—and as we do—the line, story or poem begins working on us.We internalize it. We start to embody it as a living question, a living teaching. Much of this work happens in the dark. We seem to forget about it. We lose some of the words. But slowly over time or sometimes all at once—something is revealed. We know something about who we are, what is reliable, what is present even as the seasons pass and we get older.Crescent Moon TransmissionCrescent Moon hanging lowOn the horizonAn ancient hornPlaying through our bodiesFor a momentJoin your voice withThe moon's songAnd hear each being sing you awake!Listen to the dharma talk recording for a more in-depth exploration of Nyozen's Pale Moon of Dawn. And join us on Monday Night for the next case in the Hidden Lamp, Case 34: The Zen Mirror of Tokeiji with commentary from Zenju Earthlyn Manuel. I invite you to spend some time with the moon or one of these poems. Feel free to share your own Moon Transmissions or reflections here.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and Hakomi (somatic mindfulness). I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Interested in an astrology reading for eclipse season? or for the rest of the year? I have openings for Sept and into the Fall.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.This coming week we will be exploring case 25 & case 33 (Nyozen's Pale Moon of Dawn and Bodhidharma's flesh)Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe
Edge God In Podcast 293: Summer Reads: Victory Over Vice EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: Learn 7 vices that keep us trapped in life and a way back to freedom from Fulton Sheen's book: Victory Over Vice. Scriptures: James 3:16 | 2 Peter 2:19 | 1 John 2:16 Prayer: Lord, too often I get hijacked and held captive by the vice of pride which opens up the door to other vices that block me from peace and victory in you. Restore me to your love and set me free. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: Searching for and Maintaining Inner Peace Summer Read Referenced: Victory Over Vice, By Fulton Sheen Support Resources: Searching for and Maintaining Inner Peace by Father Jacques Philippe 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out! By Lauren E Miller Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You! Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
Greetings Friends,I am returning from 10 days of monastic practice at my former home, Great Vow Zen Monastery. While I was there I had the opportunity to celebrate my teacher Chozen Bays Roshi's 80th birthday, to practice and lead the annual outdoor sesshin that we call Grasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin and to facilitate a precepts ceremony. I love monastic practice. I love merging with the great activity of awakening. I love the depth of practice that opens up when we sustain the gaze on our true nature and allow the bodhisattva vow to flow through us. I love being in this process of liberation and love with others. Many of us are asking:* How to live in a world on fire?* What is an appropriate response?* What should I do with my life?The heart of practice awakening seems to turn these questions on their head, and ask instead what do you call the world?And, who are you?And what is your life?Many great thinkers have posited that we can't solve problems with the same mind that created them. What happens when we dare to step out of the problem-solving mind all together? What happens when we look directly into the assumptions we make about ourselves and the world? What happens when we gaze into the nature of life/death?When we are willing to even begin to entertain these questions, and know ourselves beyond thought and label—another world opens up. Someone said recently “it's like I'm inhabiting a different body.”The body of this world, is our body. The body of mountain, space, silence is also our body.The Zen Buddhist tradition is alive with teachings from practitioners, contemplatives, and mystics who were engaged in this kind of inquiry. Who sustained the gaze on the great matter, and invited us to realize this great body of awakening.During sesshin we were chanting and practicing with Dogen Zenji's Mountains and Waters Sutra. In this sutra, Dogen Zenji invokes Mountains as a metaphor for the nature of our mind. Mountain presence points us to the ever-abiding presence, spaciousness and silence of our own awake awareness.Here is an excerpt from the beginning of the Mountains and Waters Sutra.Mountains and rivers right now are the actualization of the ancient Buddha way. Both mountains and rivers abide in their true form and actualize true virtue. Mountains and rivers transcend time and are alive in the eternal present. They are the original self and they are emancipation-realization. Mountains are high and wide. The movement of clouds and the inconceivable power of soaring in the wind comes freely from the mountains.We can re-write this paragraph replacing Mountains with “we” or “our true nature”. Below is an example.We–right now are the actualization of the ancient Buddha Way. We abide in our true form and actualize true virtue. We transcend time and are alive in the eternal present. This is our original self—emancipation-realization. Our awareness is high and wide, the movement of thought and the inconceivable power of awakened activity comes freely from Mind's nature.Really this is an invitation to embody Mountain. To give over your body and life to the body and life of Mountain. Once when we were practicing with this sutra during a summer practice period my teacher said:If you practice with Mountain everyday for the next 60 days, it will change you.Let yourself be a Mountain, and in that realize how you already are still, silent, spacious, safely rooted—lacking nothing.The video above is a guided meditation on Being a Mountain. In my experience Mountain practice opens up an essential aspect of zazen. I invite you to try it out. And don't be shy, let your wild Mountain body-mind rest in its fundamental space.You have always belonged to this great body of awakening.You have never been separate.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and Hakomi (somatic mindfulness). I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.I currently have a few openings in my Spiritual Counseling practice for the Fall. I offer a four-session intro package for $250. Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.This coming week we will be exploring case 25 & case 33 (Nyozen's Pale Moon of Dawn and Bodhidharma's flesh)Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe
Today's phone-in: Summer book picks with Jocelyn Covert from Halifax Public Libraries. And off the top of the show: how a Nova Scotia man's firefighting skills came back to him when it counted most when his house caught fire. Plus, how his poodle helped save the day.
Fluent Fiction - Serbian: From Stress to Success: Trusting Teamwork in the Workplace Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sr/episode/2025-08-14-22-34-02-sr Story Transcript:Sr: Владимир је седео за својим великим столом у пространој, климатизованој канцеларији.En: Владимир was sitting at his large desk in a spacious, air-conditioned office.Sr: Био је топао летњи дан.En: It was a warm summer day.Sr: Ваздух је био испуњен звуковима жамора и куцкања по тастатурама.En: The air was filled with the sounds of chatter and typing on keyboards.Sr: Пројекат на којем је Владимир радио био је од велике важности за компанију.En: The project Владимир was working on was of great importance to the company.Sr: Пројекат је био део његових амбиција да добије унапредњење.En: The project was part of his ambitions to get a promotion.Sr: Међутим, пројекат није ишao како је планирано.En: However, the project was not going as planned.Sr: Било је техничких проблема, а неколико чланова тима је било одсутно због болести.En: There were technical issues, and several team members were absent due to illness.Sr: То је донело додатни стрес Владимиру.En: This brought additional stress to Владимир.Sr: Ипак, на површини је изгледао мирно.En: Still, on the surface, he appeared calm.Sr: Време је пролазило брзо, а рок се ближио.En: Time was passing quickly, and the deadline was approaching.Sr: Једног дана, донела је одлуку да подели већи део посла с тимом.En: One day, he made the decision to share a larger portion of the work with the team.Sr: Владимир се окренуо ка Зорани и Милану, члановима свог тима.En: Владимир turned to Зорана and Милан, members of his team.Sr: "Требаће ми ваша помоћ," рекао је смирено, иако је у њему био вихор забринутости.En: "I will need your help," he said calmly, even though inside he was a whirlwind of worry.Sr: „Можете ли се побринути за ове делове пројекта?En: "Can you take care of these parts of the project?"Sr: “ упитао је, показујући их на свом списку задатака.En: he asked, pointing them out on his task list.Sr: Зорана и Милан климнули су главама, спремни да преузму задатке.En: Зорана and Милан nodded their heads, ready to take on the tasks.Sr: У наредним данима радили су дуге сате.En: In the following days, they worked long hours.Sr: Владимир је остајао након што би сви отишли кући, прегледавајући све, водећи рачуна о детаљима.En: Владимир stayed after everyone else went home, reviewing everything and paying attention to details.Sr: Брзо је дошао дан предаје пројекта.En: The day for project submission came quickly.Sr: Владимир је морао да одлучи, да ли да компромитује на квалитет зарад брзине.En: Владимир had to decide whether to compromise on quality for the sake of speed.Sr: Али, у срцу је знао да не сме.En: But, in his heart, he knew he mustn't.Sr: Моментом прави је потпуно надао на свом тиму.En: At that moment, he fully relied on his team.Sr: Када су предали пројекат, руке су му се тресле.En: When they submitted the project, his hands were shaking.Sr: Неколико дана касније стигле су повратне информације - пројекат је био хваљен за квалитет.En: A few days later, feedback arrived—the project was praised for its quality.Sr: Владимир је уздахнуо с олакшањем и захвалност што је имао тако сјајан тим.En: Владимир sighed with relief and gratitude for having such a great team.Sr: Из овог искуства, Владимир је научио да верује у свој тим.En: From this experience, Владимир learned to trust his team.Sr: Схватио је да не мора сам да носи терет посла.En: He realized he didn't have to carry the workload alone.Sr: Зонара и Милан су му само осмехнули, а Владимир је знао да је научио важну лекцију.En: Зорана and Милан just smiled at him, and Владимир knew he had learned an important lesson.Sr: Пријатељство и поверење носе пројекат до успеха.En: Friendship and trust carry the project to success.Sr: Његова канцеларија је, више него раније, постала лепо место за рад, а Владимир је постао део њега.En: His office, more than ever, became a pleasant place to work, and Владимир became a part of it. Vocabulary Words:spacious: пространојchatter: жамораambitions: амбицијаpromotion: унапредњењеtechnical: техничкихissues: проблемаabsent: одсутноillness: болестиadditional: додатниstress: стресsurface: површиниcalm: мирноdeadline: рокwhirlwind: вихорtask: задатакаsubmitted: предалиcompromise: компромитујеquality: квалитетrelied: надаоfeedback: повратне информацијеpraised: хваљенrelief: олакшањемgratitude: захвалностworkload: теретfriendship: пријатељствоtrust: поверењеsuccess: успехаpleasant: лепоdecisive: одлучујућеresponsibility: одговорности
Ready to upgrade your beach towel brain food? In this episode, Dr. Bray is providing your official summer reading passport from courtroom drama in the Deep South to alien friendships in deep space. Whether you are a hammock philosopher, poolside thrill-seeker, or someone who likes to feel smart in flip-flops, I've got you covered. We're talking true crime that reads like a Netflix docuseries (The Devil at His Elbow), celestial DIY survival (Project Hail Mary), and soul-searching journeys in the desert (The Alchemist). Plus, I'll tell you why sleeping more and specializing less might be your next big life hack. This is not your grandma's book club, unless she's really into neuroscience, wrongful convictions, and the psychological effects of TikTok. So plug in, power down your notifications, and prepare for page-turners that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even rethink your life choices. Books you'll meet in this episode: True crime, biography, brain science, and a little desert mysticism with insights that blend storytelling, wit, and actual smart stuff Perfect for road trips, sunbathing, or hiding from your in-laws on vacation Press play and pack your beach bag, the books are that good. QUOTES BY DR. BRAY "Pick up a book, start reading or listening today." "All of these books are great reads… they will blow your mind." "You'll question your life choices… and maybe even start listening to your soul a little bit."
Edge God In Podcast 292: Summer Reads: Searching for and Maintaining Inner Peace EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: Learn 6 ways to search and maintain inner peace in the midst of a hectic life. Scriptures: Nehemiah 8:10 | Number 20:1-13 | Matthew 6:27, 32 Prayer: Lord, you promise me peace beyond human understanding. You call me to release all worry. Show me how to make that a reality in my life. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You! A Key to Freedom Summer Read Referenced: Searching for and Maintaining Inner Peace by Father Jacques Philippe Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
Welcome back to the next episode of Montessori in Action Podcast. Our first conversation of season 6 was our Summer Reads episode where we celebrate authors as they release books in our Montessori community. Fortunately, there are an abundance of new Montessori books coming out and so we decided to add a Summer Reads Bonus Episode. In this bonus episode we welcome Teresa Angeles author of The Montessori Home and Beyond, Tatenda Blessing Muchiriri, author of Montessori on Wheels and Jamie Watts, author of Montessori for Grown Ups. During the episode, we talked about sending Montessori books to Tatenda for families to read as their children explored the Montessori bus. If you would like to contribute, please send a book to this address: Tatenda Blessing Muchiriri Montessori on Wheels 6343 E Girard Pl #262 Denver, CO 80222
Edge God In Podcast 292: Summer Reads: 3 Things to Know Before Stressing Out! EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: A great summer read: 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out! Learn three things today to help you release stress. Scriptures: Isaiah 43:1-5 | Psalm 46:10, Psalm 139:23-24 | Proverbs 3:5-6| John 14:27 | 1 Peter 5:7 | Prayer: Lord, too often I give authority to things outside of me to define my worth, value and capability. Grant me the grace to take it back and give ALL authority to you. Remind my mind of what my soul knows: you are ultimately in charge here and bigger than the world around me. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You! A Key to Freedom Summer Read Referenced: 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out! By Lauren E Miller Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
We are wrapping up Gayson's B-Day month Gabbers!! Join your host Gayson and Guestie Besties Pamela & Sarah as they gab about summer reads, a Golden Girls Murder Mystery, Centaurs, Bestie Questions, sweet treat no one will ever forget and so much more! Grab your cocktail and get ready for a real gabfest! Leave us a voicemail with your comments, questions and episode requests at (636) 400-3732!Show Notes:Gayson's Amazon WishlistReal McCoy "Another Night" AlbumEstella Scrooge TrailerAll Things Gayson:THE GABBING WITH GAYSON PRIDE PLAYLIST!!Buy Gayson a Cup of CoffeeMix and Mingle PodcastKeeping the Yuletide Gay with Gayson PodcastGabbing with Gayson's Website Gab with Gayson on Facebook! Become a Patreon Pal!
Temperatures are rising on the Hot Girls Read podcast! It's the middle of summer making it the perfect time to serve up some hot girl summer reading recommendations. Whether you're on a beachside holiday or trying to stay cool at home, this is a must-listen episode showcasing a variety of reads to keep you company during the heat. Organized by fiction, non-fiction, and fantasy, tune in for everything from steamy scenes and unhinged characters to short, sweltering stories.Reading List:Beach Read by Emily HenryBig Fan by Alexandra Romanoff Done and Dusted by Lyla SageThe Most Famous Girl in the World by Iman Hariri-KiaThe Dating Plan by Sara DesaiPraise by Sara CateStories for Summer and Days by the Pool - British Library Women WritersGames at Twilight by Anita DesaiCrime and Punishment by Dostyvesky Weekend Wodehouse by P.G WodehouseBy the River, Essays From the Waters EdgeWomen Hollering Creek by Sandra Cisneros Tell Me I'm Not on Fire by Nicolette DaskalakisBrandy Sour by Constantina SoteriouEverything I Know About Love by Dolly AldertonAttached by Amir Levine and Rachel S. F. HellerCome As You Are by Emily NagoskiKing Kong Theory by Virginie DespentesThe Artist's Way by Julia CameronNeon Gods by Katee RobertHeirs of the Cursed by L.C. Emerson and Denna Selen
On this episode of the The SheerLuxe Podcast, Billie Bhatia is joined by Elizabeth Day and Hodge Templeman to chat what's new and noteworthy - from celebrity-favourite La Guérite and ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty' to Florence Knapp's ‘The Names' and a throwback to ‘Big Brother' season one. They also share their latest fashion finds - think Reformation dresses, statement jewellery from Dinosaur Designs, elevated basics from Zara and Yaitte, plus their denim picks from Aligne. Lastly, they discuss the viral Coldplay concert meme, Charli XCX's wedding look and the two books on everyone's nightstand: ‘One Of Us' by Elizabeth Day and ‘Please Yourself' by Emma Reed Turrell. Subscribe For More | http://bit.ly/2VmqduQ Get SheerLuxe Straight To Your Inbox, Daily | http://sheerluxe.com/signup PANEL GUESTSBillie Bhatia | @billie_bhatia | https://www.instagram.com/billie_bhatia/?hl=en Elizabeth Day | @elizabday | https://www.instagram.com/elizabday/?hl=en Hodge Templeman | @sarahjtempleman | https://www.instagram.com/sarahjtempleman/?hl=en WIN | https://sheerluxe.com/win/2025/06/win-the-ultimate-luxury-holiday-at-oku-bodrum COMPETITION | Beautifect | https://www.beautifect.com/ To enter, please leave a comment below stating what you'd love to see from us and we'll pick a winner. Terms & Conditions: The entrant must be 18 or over to enter, and it is only valid to UK entrants. Only one entry per person. No alternative cash or otherwise to the stated prizes are available. SheerLuxe is not responsible for and will not offer any compensation, financial or otherwise, for any loss, damage or disappointment arising if the prize is not fulfilled by the providing company for any reason whatsoever.Discount Code: SL2025ChatGPT Prompt: Using my birth date xx/xx/xx, uncover my hidden strengths, weaknesses, and the personal challenges I'm meant to overcome using numerology. Then you follow up with: My full birth name (as it appears on my birth certificate) is xxxx. Please calculate my Expression (Destiny) Number and Soul Urge Number. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Listen to The Jabot podcast as Kathryn Rubino interviews attorney and author Audrey Ingram, who shares her compelling transition from a law career to writing. Explore Audrey's journey, motherhood's role in her life choices, and get a glimpse of her new novel, “The Summer We Ran,” about first loves turned political rivals. A must-listen for aspiring writers and anyone seeking inspiration to chase their dreams! Highlights Transition from Big Law to Novel Writing Fulfillment in Motherhood Navigating Guilt and Finding Balance Inspiration for Debut Novel Elements of an Ideal Summer Beach Read Creativity and Storytelling Sources Crafting Imperfect Characters Integrating Legal Skills in Writing Balancing Creative and Business Aspects in Writing Episode Sponsored By https://www.lexisnexis.com/lexisplus Links and Resources https://www.instagram.com/audreyingramwrites/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/zibbypublishing/?hl=en https://audreyingramwrites.com/ Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player. Subscribe with Apple Podcasts Follow on Spotify Leave a review on Apple Podcasts
Get our Summer Reads and head over to our TAGS PATREON Community - Patreon.com/tagspodcast Columbian Adult Performer found guilty for brutal double murder of gay couple... David Geffen's ex drops bombshell about their 2-year marriage and wants payback... Lavern Cox responds to her original statement that she dated a MAGA Republican... Megyn Kelly slams Jennifer Lopez and we're not here for it! What is micro-cheating and who is guilty of it... What is your go-to romantic gesture? What is Scrotox and would you do it? Advice: When you open up your relationship - taking your partner into consideration and his health... Advice: A couple that is open keeps getting STI's.... Thirst Trap: Which NSFW took the best photo of the week? Follow Steve V. on IG: @iam_stevev Follow Lincoln on IG: @madlincoln Follow The Protein Bakery on IG: @proteinbakery Follow Kodi on IG: @mistahmaurice Rate and Review us! Wanna drop a weekly or one time tip to TAGSPODCAST - Show your love for the show and support TAGS! Visit our website: tagspodcast.com Needs some advice for a sex or relationship conundrum? Ask TAGS! DM US ON IG or https://www.talkaboutgaysex.com/contact Follow Of a Certain Age on IG: @ofacertainagepod
Edge God In Podcast 291: Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You: A Key to Freedom EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: A great summer read: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You. Learn a key to internal freedom from resistance to change. Scriptures: 2 Peter 2:19 | Matthew 20:29-34 Prayer: Lord, I want to be free from the things in the world that prevent me from being able to change for the better in my life. Grant me the grace to embrace your strength, wisdom and guidance as you lead me out of captivity. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You! Summer Read Referenced: Stop Letting the World be the Boss of You! by Lauren E Miller and Jenn Chloupek Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
What makes a book the perfect beach read? In this sunny episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Clémence Michallon, Jonathan Parks-Ramage, Megan Miranda, and Sara Hamdan for a lively conversation about the art of crafting a summer page-turner. From thrillers to romances and everything in between, they unpack what “beach read” really means, how they keep readers hooked, and—crucially—their go-to writing snacks. Then in segment two, Amy, Bre, Cece, Jananie, and Kayla stop by with top-tier book recommendations to toss in your tote bag, whether you're headed to the coast or just catching rays on your lunch break. Pack your sunscreen and press play! Check out the video version of this episode on the Libby App YouTube Channel. Guest Host Recommendations: Amy Allen Clark Sister, Sinner by Claire Hoffman (biography) Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje Bre The Oath – TM Richardson The Wishing Pool – Tananarive Due Jananie Never Been Better – Leanne Toshiko Simpson The Bandit Queens – Parini Shroff Cece Cleat Cute – Meryl Wilsner Guillotine – Delilah S. Dawson Drowning – TJ Newman Kayla Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies - Catherine Mack Sweethand- N.G. Peltier A House on the Bottom of the Lake – Josh Mallerman Follow the Guests & Guest Hosts: Segment 1 Clémence Michallon - Website Jonathan Parks-Ramage - Website Megan Miranda - Website Sara Hamdan - Website Segment 2 Amy Allen Clark - Links Bre - Links Cece - Links Jananie K. Velu - Links Kayla - Links Time Stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:16 Intro 00:08:18 Segment 1 - Clémence Michallon, Jonathan Parks-Ramage, Megan Miranda, Sara Hamdan 00:54:57 BREAK – Check out Plot Threads Shop! 00:56:10 Segment 2 – Book Recommendations with Amy, Bre and Jananie! 01:30:24 Segment 2 – Book Recommendations with Cece and Kayla! 01:44:46 Outro Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today's episode! Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram! Want to reach out? Send an email to bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join us for another summer fun episode where we dive into the latest book releases and share essential sun safety tips! Discover a diverse selection of new books, from nonfiction gems like "Secrets of Adulthood" to thrilling mysteries and unique cookbooks featuring creative ramen recipes. We also explore practical advice for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, including the best SPF options and sun safety practices for all ages. Perfect for book lovers reading on the beach and anyone looking to stay safe in the sun this summer!
The jury will hear the first full day of testimony on Wednesday in the murder trial of a Colorado dentist. James "Jim" Craig is accused of poisoning his wife, Angela. Prosecutors say he gave her protein shakes laced with cyanide and other deadly chemicals. Craig has pleaded not guilty. Streaming shows dominated nominations for the 2025 Emmy Awards. "Severance" earned the most series nominations with 27. Meanwhile, "The Studio" earned the most-ever nominations for a debut comedy series with 23. Fandango's Erik Davis joins "CBS Mornings" to break down the 2025 Emmy nominations, which were announced on Tuesday. "Severance" was this year's most nominated show, earning 27 nominations. Emily Ratajkowski joins "CBS Mornings" to talk about her latest role as the new fiancée in "Too Much," a romantic comedy created by Lena Dunham and starring Meg Stalter as a heartbroken woman starting over in London. Amazon books editorial director Sarah Gelman joins "CBS Mornings" to share her picks for must-read books this summer, from thrillers to feel-good fiction Singer-songwriter Jake Wesley Rogers joins "CBS Mornings" to talk with Anthony Mason about his debut album "In the Key of Love" and opening for Cyndi Lauper's farewell tour. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Three are charged with homophobic attack in Ptown... Is the new Superman an immigrant story and a gay icon? Now the Stonewall monument is removing the 'B' and mentions of Bisexuality.... Revisiting Obergefell and the potential of losing same sex marriage... Actor Tim Pocock shares story of his Mother finding his NSFW pictures and confronting him... The hosts share their personal stories of being outed, coming out and more with adult content... We discuss the best and worst things about getting older It's our Summer Book Reading List! Get all of our recommendations for your next Summer read! Follow Steve V. on IG: @iam_stevev Follow Lincoln on IG: @madlincoln Follow The Protein Bakery on IG: @proteinbakery Follow Kodi on IG: @mistahmaurice Rate and Review us! Wanna drop a weekly or one time tip to TAGSPODCAST - Show your love for the show and support TAGS! Visit our website: tagspodcast.com Needs some advice for a sex or relationship conundrum? Ask TAGS! DM US ON IG or https://www.talkaboutgaysex.com/contact Follow Of a Certain Age on IG: @ofacertainagepod
[REBROADCAST FROM May 20, 2025] The new novel The Doorman follows Chicky Diaz, the titular character working at a high end Manhattan building who becomes ensnared in the web of secrets his residents try to keep. Author Chris Pavone discusses his new thriller.
Edge God In Podcast 290: Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You. Learn 3 traps that create anxiety in your life. Scriptures: Psalm 37:5 | Ephesians 5:3 | Luke 5:24, Mark 10:50, John 11:43 | Live in the thrill of the surrendered life: Matthew 6:33 | Romans 12:1 | 1 Peter 5:7 | Psalm 37:5 | Galatians 2:20 Prayer: Lord, I am guilty of greed and attachments. I get hijacked by the world's voice over yours and too often place my sense of worth and value in the hands of things that can never save me. Have your way with me today and give me the grace to pray on the things you want me to surrender rather than the things I want to control. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: Interior Freedom from Self-Doubt Summer Read Referenced: Stop Letting the World be the Boss of You! by Lauren E Miller and Jenn Chloupek Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
In this heartfelt episode of My Simplified Life, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Stephanie Hockersmith explore how books shape our dreams, healing, and personal growth. From their fantasy of summering in beautiful places to their deep love for fiction and memoirs, Michelle and Steph dive into how literature provides both escape and emotional insight. They highlight the works of bestselling author Carley Fortune as perfect summer reads—offering reflection, romance, and relatable life struggles. The conversation also touches on grief, family dynamics, and the power of reading to help process complex emotions, especially when navigating topics like alcoholism and loss. Whether you're looking for meaningful book recommendations or simply need a reminder of how reading can transform your life, this episode is a warm, engaging, and honest discussion about the stories that stay with us long after the last page. What We're Talking About... Summering somewhere sounds delightful and aspirational. Carley Fortune's novels are perfect for summer reading. Books can evoke powerful memories and feelings. Memoirs provide insight into personal experiences. Reading can inspire a desire to work with authors. Fiction can offer an escape while reflecting real-life issues. The Baby-Sitters Club influenced childhood aspirations. Entrepreneurship can take many forms, including podcasting. Literature can shape personal growth and understanding. Summer reads can create a longing for lake life and romance. Manifesting dreams can be a powerful motivator. Reading a variety of genres enriches the literary experience. Mysteries often intertwine with themes of grief and loss. Grief can reshape our understanding of love and life. Books can provide comfort and insight into personal struggles. The portrayal of alcoholism in literature can be multifaceted and compassionate. Emotional journeys in books can inspire resilience in readers. Audiobook narrators play a crucial role in the reading experience. It's important to read at your own pace and enjoy the journey. Updating your reading list can lead to new discoveries and insights. Chapters 00:00 Summer Dreams and Aspirations 03:01 The Power of Books and Reading 06:01 Exploring Fiction and Memoirs 08:58 Carly Fortune's Novels and Escapism 11:48 Summer Reads and Personal Reflections 14:33 Manifesting Dreams and Literary Passions 15:39 Exploring Diverse Literary Genres 17:30 Mysteries and Grief in Literature 21:32 The Impact of Grief on Life 27:10 Navigating Alcoholism and Family Dynamics 31:52 The Emotional Journey of Reading
This week three writers join to talk summer reading recommendations from the world of history and historical fiction. Books The Spy in the Archive Sceptred Isle Rain of Ruin Test Cricket: A History The Pretender Korea The CIA Book Club Lest We Forget 1945 The Reckoning On Democracy & Death Cults Last Days of Budapest The Sorrow & the Loss These Wicked Devices March Violets - Bernie Gunther The Good Soldier Svejk A Good Man in Africa Guests Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Antonia Senior - Historical Fiction Reviewer The Times Roger Moorhouse - Historian Richard Foreman - Author and Publisher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, I'm sharing 10 life-changing books that every herbalist, gardener, and nature lover should have on their shelf. These are the books I return to again and again—whether I'm planning my medicinal herb garden, identifying wild plants, or curling up with a beautiful summer read that reconnects me to the heart of herbalism.
Welcome back to another year with Montessori in Action Podcast! Our first conversation of season 6 is our Summer Reads episode where we celebrate authors as they release books in our Montessori community. This July we welcome Susan Zoll, author of Powerful Literacy in the Montessori Classroom who joins us to talk about her new book, Effective Literacy Assessment in the Montessori Classroom. Susan is joined by new author, Katie Keller Wood, who wrote Alignment: A Montessori Approach to Reimagining Work-Life Balance. Congratulations to these Montessori authors!
What are Sarah and Cynthia reading this summer? Find out in this bonus episode of The Reading Lounge. Learn about six books you may want to pack into your summer tote bag. And don't forget the summer beverage. Sarah shares her recipe for homemade Limoncello. We used this beautiful liquor to make a Limoncello Spritz.3 oz Prosecco2 oz Limoncello1 oz Club SodaSprig of Mint (optional)Meet us in The Reading Lounge!
Jennie Loughran, Librarian in Waterford; and Tracy McEneaney, Librarian in Waterford; on Summer reads for children.
Mastretta's ultra-engaging, sex-forward, historical, feminist family romance from 1985 might be a touchstone of feminist literature, but it's also SO FUN TO READ. Kimberly dives in to the feminist underpinnings, the way our protagonist can rationalize living with a criminal (anyone interested in how Carmela Soprano did it, you should read this book!) and the literary merits of this engaging work. This is a summer read you'll remember forever!
Edge God In Podcast 289: Summer Reads: Interior Freedom from Self-Doubt EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: Learn 4 steps to interior freedom from self-doubt and undesirable circumstances. Scriptures: | Isaiah 43:4 | John 15:5 | Zechariah 4:6 | James 1:2-4 Prayer: Lord, too often I doubt myself to the point that I block my ability to receive your love. Crash through all of it Lord and remind my mind of what my soul always knows. You love ME...all of me. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: How to Get Interior Freedom Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Award Winning Book: Hearing His Whisper: With Every Storm Jesus Comes Too, 3rd Edition by Lauren E Miller 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out! Lauren E Miller Stop Letting the World be the Boss of You! Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
This week, the sisters dive into one of the hardest kinds of breakups — losing a close friend without warning or closure. Nancy opens up about being ghosted by someone she once considered family, and the Fishes explore the heartbreak, confusion, and quiet grief that comes with a friendship that simply… ends. From red flags to silent fades, they share their own stories of friendship loss and how midlife has reshaped what connection really means.Of course, it wouldn't be a Fishes episode without a little household drama: Kathy floods her laundry room with a rogue pre-treatment sheet (yes, again), Lynne's dimmer switch installation goes wildly wrong, and everyone's sourdough starter is still under attack by fruit flies.Plus: How to talk to your daughters about friendship dynamics Skincare tips from a derm Dazzle Dry nail polish review Light summer book recs And a fast, no-fuss lobster roll recipe to eat your feelings with
We asked our Weirdos listeners for their summer read suggestions and they delivered! In this episode Sara and Cariad chat about some of the books they're excited to read.Thank you for reading with us. We like reading with you!Tickets for Sara's tour show I Am A Strange Gloop are available to buy from sarapascoe.co.ukCariad's children's book Where Did She Go? is available to buy now.Sara's debut novel Weirdo is published by Faber & Faber and is available to buy here.Cariad's book You Are Not Alone is published by Bloomsbury and is available to buy here.Follow Sara & Cariad's Weirdos Book Club on Instagram @saraandcariadsweirdosbookclub and Twitter @weirdosbookclub Recorded and edited by Naomi Parnell for Plosive.Artwork by Welcome Studio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're both staying very still in front of air conditioners this week, so that means we're very very happy to have a pile of summer reads at the ready! We're teeing up your piles of summer reads this week with our quarterly romance roundup! As a reminder, we haven't read most of these books -- but they're the ones toppling our TBR! As a reminder, preorders mean a lot more than they should these days, so if there's anything on this list that makes you go "oh, yes. that's for me," and you're able to preorder from your local bookstore (or from Pocket Books Bookshop with the code PREORDER) or reserve at your local library. The authors on this list thank you.As a reminder, Sarah has a new book out on July 8th -- go see her on tour in NYC, Chicago, Winston-Salem, NC, Newport, RI, Cambridge, MA, Decatur, GA, or Franklin, IN. There are a handful of tickets still available for Fated Mates Live in St. Louis, MO on July 8th! Join us!If you can't make the tour, you can preorder These Summer Storms signed with a special romance dust jacket from The Ripped Bodice. If you want more Fated Mates in your life, please join our Patreon, which comes with an extremely busy and fun Discord community! Join other magnificent firebirds to hang out, talk romance, and be cool together in a private group full of excellent people. Learn more at patreon.com.The BooksJuneWhen Javi Dumped Mari by Mia SosaBest Summer Ever by Jessica CunsoloKeeping the Countess by Lille MooreAn Ancient Witch's Guide to Modern Dating by Ceclia EdwardsSunny Side Up by Katie SturinoParty of Three by C. Travis RiceEliza and the Duke by Harper St. GeorgeSteel Horses & Leather Roads by Cher TeraisJuly
Edge God In Podcast 288: Summer Reads: How to Get Interior Freedom EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: We are restricted by our own hearts. Freedom involves a choice on our part. Learn 3 responses to pain and two paths to interior freedom. Scriptures: | Romans 8:28 | Ephesians 2:10 | Galatians 5:1 | John 14:27 Prayer: Lord, I want to be free. Free from the pressure and expectations I put on myself to keep up with the world. Help me to receive the love you have for me to set me free...truly free in you and by you. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Prune for Growth: A Simple Solution for More Joy Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Award Winning Book: Hearing His Whisper: With Every Storm Jesus Comes Too, 3rd Edition by Lauren E Miller 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out! Lauren E Miller Stop Letting the World be the Boss of You! Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
Last weekend our Book Club gathered for a live event at Kildare Village to discuss the very best reads for summer 2025. Róisín Ingle, Bernice Harrison and Ann Ingle were joined by special guest bestselling author Marian Keyes and a room full of Women's Podcast listeners. There were recommendations to suit everyone and every mood, including a gripping crime thriller, a “life-changing” self help book and But before we bring you that recording, Irish Times opinion editor Jennifer O'Connel is here to discuss some of the biggest stories of the week, including the unveiling of the creator behind toxic gossip site Tattle Life. For the full list of summer reading recommendations, click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Searching for meaningful summer reading that might transform your relationship with your college student? Look no further than this curated collection of parent-focused book recommendations from higher education professionals Vicki Nelson and Lynn Abrahams.The hosts dive deep into six powerful books that address crucial aspects of the college parenting journey. "Sleep Deprived Teen" reveals the shocking impact of sleep deprivation on everything from academic performance to athletic abilities, with teens biologically requiring 8-10 hours of sleep yet averaging only 6-7 hours nightly. Meanwhile, "How to Raise a Citizen" fills the critical gap left by diminishing civics education in schools, providing parents with accessible tools to teach citizenship regardless of their own political knowledge.For families with athletes, "Raising Empowered Athletes" offers a refreshing perspective focused on developing resilience rather than just athletic achievement. The standout chapter on "The Mindset Toolbox" introduces the five C's of building grit that benefit both young athletes and their parents. "Is This Autism?" takes a groundbreaking approach by incorporating the voices of autistic individuals as experts, shifting away from deficit-focused models toward understanding neurodiversity as a natural variation in human experience.Parents dreading the college admissions process will find solace in "The Truth About College Admission," which uniquely focuses on preserving family relationships throughout the journey rather than just "getting in." Starting with the fundamental question "Why are you going to college?", the book provides practical exercises and conversation starters that strengthen family bonds during this potentially stressful time. Finally, Brené Brown's "Braving the Wilderness" explores authenticity and belonging, offering profound wisdom about self-worth applicable to both parents and students navigating the college transition.Whether you're just beginning the college journey or supporting a current student, these thoughtfully selected books provide invaluable insights for strengthening your parent-student relationship while navigating the complexities of higher education. Which one will you read first? Thank you for listening! Much more information for college parents can be found on our website, College Parent Central Find us on Twitter at @CollParCentral Sign up for our newsletter for ongoing information Please leave us a review at “Love the Podcast” to help others find us.
Summertime, and the reading's easy… What makes a good summer read? Good covers? Spicy content? Fun plots? All of the above! Listen this week as Magda and Lindsay dive into their recipe for a perfect summer read, complete with recommendations. Books Mentioned in the episode: "The Poppy War" R.F. Kuang "Yellowface" R.F. Kuang "Babel" R.F. Kuang "The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband" Julia Quinn "The Perfect Divorce" Jeneva Rose "The Perfect Marriage" Jeneva Rose "One Hundred Years of Solitude" Gabriel García Márquez "Listen for the Lie" Amy Tintera "First Lie Wins" Ashley Elston "Never Lie" Freida McFadden "Beach Read" Emily Henry "The Bodyguard" Katherine Center "Practice Makes Perfect" Sarah Adams "You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty" Akwaeke Emezi "The House on the Cerulean Sea" T.J. Klune "Margo's Got Money Troubles" Rufi Thorpe "Yellowface" R.F. Kuang "The Midnight Feast" Lucy Foley "The Guest List" Lucy Foley "The Shadow of the Wind" Carlos Ruiz Zafón Email us! Literally Books Website Literally Books Instagram Magda's Instagram Lindsay's Instagram Literally Books YouTube Literally Books TikTok Intro & Outro Song: "Would it Kill You," courtesy of The Solder Thread
What if your daughter wants to be baptized… but she's not ready?In a recent True Girl True Girl online Bible study, Dr. Heather Holleman joined Dannah Gresh. During Q&A, one girl asked “When were you baptized?” The answer that followed prompted at least one girl to follow through on obeying the Lord in baptism. We wanted you to hear it. Plus Dannah and Heather unpack two of the best fiction picks for your daughter's summer reading.Get tickets to the True Girl Pop Up PartyGet the True Girl Subscription Box
Hi! Welcome to our Bookish Life! We are Jess and Tori and we chat about all things being content creators, influencers and book industry professionals!Tori's Youtube Channel | @NovelLife Jess's Youtube Channel | @PeaceLoveBooksxo Tori's Instagram | @liveanovellifeJess's Instagram | @peacelovebooksxoWant to send us snail mail?2500 Dallas Hwy Suite 202PMB 324Marietta, GA 30064USA
In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac shares her top summer book recommendations, spotlighting must-read new releases for June, July, and August. From empowering nonfiction to captivating fiction and even a few standout graphic novels, Michelle covers a range of genres to add to your summer reading list. Whether you're heading to the beach, relaxing at home, or looking for your next book club pick, these titles promise to inspire, entertain, and spark meaningful conversations. Michelle also shares her personal takes on each selection and invites listeners to join the conversation by sharing their own summer reading favorites. Perfect for book lovers, podcast fans, and anyone curating the ultimate summer TBR! What Michelle's Talking About... Summer is a great time to explore new books. Frog Daddy is a delightful graphic novel for kids. Fired Up by Shannon Watts inspires passion and action. Hazel Says No is a compelling family drama. Agents of Change showcases badass women in the CIA. The Art of Vanishing is a unique love story. Everyone is Lying to You is a thrilling mystery. Diana Says Yes promises to be a spicy read. If You're Seeing This, It's Meant For You is going to be fantastic and if you haven't read Self Care, you should read it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Summer Reads 01:04 June Book Releases 03:26 July Book Releases 05:08 August Book Releases 06:57 Conclusion and Call to Action
Nothing beats a good book, especially at the cottage, by the pool — or even quietly at home with the kids away at camp. We ask two professional book lovers to share their tips for the best books of the summer, from beach reads and blockbusters to novels from Canada's finest.Ann Shea, from Mill Street Books in Almonte, Ont., chose One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune, The Alternatives by Caoilinn Hughes, How to Survive a Bear Attack by Claire Cameron, The Mind Mappers by Eric Andrew-Gee and My Friends by Fredrik Backman.Cassidy Tooley, from Mosaic Books in Kelowna, B.C., chose Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy, Favourite Daughter by Morgan Dick, The Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life by Suleika Jaouad, The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig, and Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid.Have you read any of these books already? Hit play to hear the conversation and find out why our book lovers think you should!
Katie McLain Horner and Kendra Winchester recommend summer reads! Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more mystery/thriller recs and news, sign up for our Unusual Suspects newsletter! Ready to level up your reading life? Become a Book Riot All Access member and explore our full library of members-only content, including must-reads, deep dives, and reading challenge recommendations. For a limited time, the first 50 new All Access annual members get a FREE copy of Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz courtesy of Tor Publishing! Join Book Riot All Access to level up your reading life and claim your free copy of Automatic Noodle. News AI Summer Reading List with the Chicago Sun Times All the Sinners Bleed coming to Netflix Crime Reads Summer Reading List This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Books Discussed Victorian Psycho - Virginia Feito #FashionVictim - Amina Akhtar Murder at Gull's Nest - Jess Kidd King of Ashes - S.A. Cosby Be Gay, Do Crime - edited by Kristel Buckley and Molly Llewellyn Welcome to Murder Week - Karen Dukess Otherwise you can: Find Kendra on Instagram and BlueSky @kdwinchester and on TikTok @kendrawinchester Find Katie on Bluesky @kt-librarylady And we will talk to you all next time! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
[REBROADCAST FROM Jul 9, 2024] The novel Long Island Compromise from Taffy Brodesser-Akner is now out in paperback. It follows a very wealthy Long Island family coping with the aftermath of a kidnapping scheme. Brodesser-Akner discusses the book as part last summer's Get Lit with All Of It book club.
[REBROADCAST FROM Jan. 8, 2025] Author Adam Ross draws on his experiences as a former child actor in his new novel, Playworld. The novel tells the story of Griffin, a 14-year-old sitcom star who finds himself caught in an inappropriate relationship with an adult woman in 1980s New York.
By the pool, at the beach, binge-able — the only requirements for the best summer book recommendations according to the It Gets Good girls. Warmer weather is coming and we are ready to tackle our summer reading list. Join us while we give you an updated list from last year (with some tried and true recs that you see time and time again from us!) As always, there is a healthy dose of chaos, laughter, and F1 talk for your enjoyment. Head over to our Instagram and save the post from this episode to reference later! Currently Reading: Taming 7 by Chloe Walsh Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig Watch Me by Tahereh Mafi Redeeming 6 by Chloe Walsh TikTok Accounts Mentioned: @lukereads @lynmoore_books
Send me a one-way text about this episode! I'll give you a shout out or answer your question on a future episode.If you are looking for some summer reads, I've got you today. I want to share some of my favorites in several categories, so there will be something for everyone. I have recommendations for Classics, Cozy Mysteries, Historical Fiction, Children's Lit, Sci-Fi, and some non-fiction recommendations on Theology/Christian Living and Homemaking. Tell me your favorite summer reads so I can share them in the next newsletter! Text me using the link above. ⬆️NOTES & LINKSAround the World in 80 Days | Jules VerneThe Count of Monte Cristo | Alexander DumasEmma | Jane AustenLady Hardcastle Mysteries | TE KinseyIvy Hill Series | Julie KlassenBelgravia | Julian FellowesThe American Heiress and Fortune Hunter | Daisy GoodwinMary Poppins Series | PL TraversMrs Piggle-Wiggle Series | Betty MacDonaldRedwall Series | Brian JacquesFive Little Peppers | Margaret SidneyStuart Little, Trumpet of the Swan, Charlotte's Web | EB WhiteThe Chronicles of Narnia | CS LewisOut of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, That Hideous Strength (Ransom Trilogy) | CS LewisJesus the King | Tim KellerEven Better Than Eden | Nancy GuthrieNone Like Him, In His Image | Jen WilkinEve in Exile | Rebekah MerkleMy Dear Hemlock | Tilly DillehayThe Hidden Art of Homemaking | Edith SchaefferNo Ordinary Home; The Uncommon Art of Christ-Centered Homemaking | Carol Jo BrazoThe Life-Giving Home, The Life-Giving Table | Sally ClarksonHomemaking | JR MillerSupport the showHOMEMAKING RESOURCES Free Weekly Newsletter, Homemaker Happy Mail Private Facebook Group, Homemaker Forum Newsletter Archive JR Miller's Homemaking Study Guide Audio Newsletter available to Titus 2 Woman monthly supporters SUPPORT & CONNECT Review | Love The Podcast Contact | Voicemail |Instagram | Facebook | Website | Email Follow | Follow The Podcast Support | theartofhomepodcast.com/support
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