Podcasts about swiss army

If bad news makes you feel bad, this podcast is an alternative just for you! Jeff Douglas finds out how Morris Green connects with teenage boys when Jeff drops into a GuysWork class at Millwood High. Then, we travel back to the year 1995 to hear how Randy Bachman ended up making a split-single vinyl 45 with The Hardship Post. Jason Buxton talks about his made-in-Halifax film 'Sharp Corner,' opening May 9th across the country. And Alex Guye finds out about why the BCG vaccine may prove to be a Swiss Army knife of vaccines.

Can music replace drugs? Daniel J. Levitin shows how your favorite songs can release natural opioids, restore memory, and heal neural pathways!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1147What We Discuss with Daniel J. Levitin:Music functions like a Swiss Army knife in the brain, not just a hammer. Different music triggers different neurochemical systems — dopamine for motivation and pleasure, endogenous opioids for pain relief — explaining why personalized music choices are crucial for realizing therapeutic effects.The brain's default mode network can be activated by music, providing a restorative mental break that replenishes depleted glucose levels — like nature's reset button for our exhausted, decision-fatigued minds.Music therapy shows clinical evidence for treating Parkinson's (by synchronizing movements), memory disorders, and pain management — sometimes reducing or eliminating the need for pharmaceutical interventions through our body's natural neurochemical responses.Musical processing uses different neural pathways than speech, which is why people with speech disorders like stuttering or neurological damage from stroke can often still sing fluently — offering alternative communication channels when primary ones fail.You can start your own music medicine cabinet today by creating mood-specific playlists for different needs — and counterintuitively, when feeling depressed, choose songs that match rather than oppose your mood. This validates your emotions and creates a feeling of being understood.And much more...And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!This Episode Is Sponsored By:NordVPN: Get an exclusive deal at nordvpn.com/jordanharbingerIQBAR: Text "Jordan" to 64,000 for 20% off all IQBAR products with free shippingNorthwest Registered Agent: Get more at northwestregisteredagent.com/jordanNotion: Try it free at notion.com/jordanAirbnb: Find out how much your space is worth at airbnb.com/hostSign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!Subscribe to our once-a-week Wee Bit Wiser newsletter today and start filling your Wednesdays with wisdom!Do you even Reddit, bro? Join us at r/JordanHarbinger!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with industrial design expert Cory Nykoluk, the innovative force behind some of the tactical gear industry's most revolutionary products. Cory shares his journey from being the first employee at First Tactical to his influential tenure as Design Director at 5.11 Tactical, where he created the iconic Rush 24 backpack that redefined tactical gear standards.The conversation explores Cory's design philosophy of "Neat Clean Professional" and how it shaped entire product lines and brand identities. Listeners will gain insights into the creative process behind tactical equipment development, from concept to market.With experience spanning prestigious brands like Swiss Army, Columbia Sportswear, and Briggs & Riley Travelware, Cory offers valuable perspectives on innovation across diverse product categories. Whether you're interested in industrial design, tactical gear, or entrepreneurial brand-building, this episode delivers fascinating stories and practical wisdom from one of the industry's most inventive minds.Cory Nykoluk: Instagram @mad_innovatorwww.madinnovators.comDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/

What makes the Roth IRA one of the most powerful tools in personal finance? Josh breaks it all down, explaining how this tax-advantaged account can help build lasting wealth, avoid future tax hikes, and give you more control over your money. He walks through the key rules—like income limits, tax-free withdrawal qualifications, and the five-year rule—so you can understand exactly how to use a Roth IRA to your advantage. Josh also explains strategies like the Backdoor Roth for high earners, and how investing in high-growth assets within a Roth can supercharge long-term gains. The Roth IRA might just be your financial Swiss Army knife after listening to this one. Then in 'Extra Points,' Josh reacts to Elon Musk's bold move to integrate X with X AI, breaking down what this private deal could mean for the future of media, AI, and investment strategy. Can't get enough of The Financial Quarterback? Click ‘Subscribe' so you never miss a play. If you're enjoying the show, leave a 5-star rating and drop a review—it helps keep the game going!

In 2014, Drew Baglino was helping build Tesla's energy division with a passionate, scrappy team. Using parts from Tesla's vehicles, they created the first Powerwall home battery. But as demand grew, they hit a critical bottleneck: cell shortages. Customers across multiple markets were already excited about the new product, but Drew's team struggled to keep up with demand. With Powerwall 2 already announced, pressure mounted while the supply chain faltered. And with Tesla prioritizing vehicles,, the energy team was left to "get the scraps and figure it out".  In this episode, Lara Pierpoint talks with Drew Baglino, former senior vice president of powertrain and energy at Tesla, about building a new product category through bootstrapping and creative resource sharing. Drew shares how a couple dozen "Swiss Army knife" engineers created a residential battery system that would ultimately define the market. Credits: Hosted by Lara Pierpoint. Produced by Erin Hardick. Edited by Anne Bailey and Stephen Lacey. Original music and engineering by Sean Marquand. Stephen Lacey is executive editor. The Green Blueprint is a co-production of Latitude Media and Trellis Climate. Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get podcasts. For more reporting on the companies featured in this podcast, subscribe to Latitude Media's newsletter.

We begin this episode of Gyles's diary in Switzerland, where he's spending the summer as an au pair to the family of the Head of the Swiss Army. He beats the President of Switzerland at cards and attends an underwhelming 'son et lumiere'. Back in England, Gyles returns to another busy term at Bedales, in which he carries on his relationship with Sally and tries to reconcile that with his endless school projects: this term he's arranging activities for the children in the younger years, to involve them more in the life of the school. Plus, Gyles's sisters have an argument and we find out more about his friendship with Simon Cadell. Enjoy this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you a minimalist packer or do you pack more than one outfit per day? It can be an endless tug-of-war between what you know is right and what you know is, well, you.One item of apparel that's often caught between two worlds is the humble graphic hoodie.What makes the ultimate travel hoodie?Packing for a vacation can be a struggle between wants and needs. What clothes do you want to bring and what clothes do you need to bring? When you're standing in front of your packing pile, deciding what makes the cut for your next adventure, does a hoodie feel like a must or a miss? If you think a hoodie's a must, it's probably because it's soft and versatile. Your favorite hoodie has been with you through everything from long-haul flights to late-night walks back to your hotel. But not all hoodies are created equal—especially when you're packing light and traveling far. (Do you know the history of the hoodie and how it was invented?). But hoodies are also big and bulky items. It's particularly challenging if you're trying to keep your luggage to a minimum. Whether you're on a two-week European vacation or spending a week at Disney World, no one wants to bring more baggage than they need to.The good news is that style and comfort don't have to be at odds when it comes to travel hoodies. With the right travel hoodie, you can have both. Let's talk about what makes the ultimate travel hoodie—and why your go-to might need an upgrade.Why a Hoodie is a Travel Must-Have ItemBefore we get into style, let's talk practical function. To put is simply, the hoodie is the Swiss Army knife of your travel wardrobe.It's a built-in blanket on freezing airplanes and chilly train rides.It's an extra layer when the weather turns or the sun sets faster than expected.It's low-maintenance. No ironing, no fuss, no worries.It fits every vibe—airport runs, café lounging, sightseeing strolls, theme park visits and even spontaneous hikes.In short, a good hoodie keeps you warm. A great hoodie keeps you looking cool while doing itWhat Makes a Hoodie Travel-WorthyThere are the five things that we look for in a good travel hoodie:1. Fabric That Breathes (and Doesn't Bulk Up)If you're wearing a hoodie, you want that unmistakable cozy factor, but without sweating through airport security. Watch for midweight cotton blends that feel soft but don't trap heat. Bonus if it has a brushed interior (can you say softness?) and holds up to multiple wears without getting baggy.

Italy’s prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, is headed to the White House to meet with US president Donald Trump. Can she walk the diplomatic tightrope amid trade tensions? Then: we look at how Europe’s security priorities have shifted as the Swiss Army trains abroad for the first time in 30 years. Plus: Singapore’s general election, how tariffs are affecting air travel and why “slow TV” is on the rise in the Nordics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we deep dive into the irrational world of customer behaviour with legendary behavioural economist Dan Ariely. Dan reveals why we're all predictably wrong, how tiny invisible cues can radically change price perception, and why effort makes things feel more valuable. We also unpack the real reason people fall for misinformation, how to rebuild trust in broken industries like insurance, and why letting customers choose their own price might just be your smartest move. If you want to understand what truly drives decisions — and how to use that insight to become a better marketer — this one's unmissable.Timestamps:00:00:00 - Intro00:00:50 - The story of Dan Ariely's half beard00:07:53 - Dan's painful introduction into behavioural science00:11:46 - Reaction to Jon's house tragedy00:15:11 - The hidden truths revealed by social science00:21:43 - Invisible vs visible motivation00:29:20 - How Dan would change insurance companies00:33:30 - Lemonade insurance example00:35:39 - Why the human brain is a vintage Swiss Army knife00:38:08 - How context radically changes price perception (the relativity effect)00:45:01 - Why you should let your customer choose their own price00:47:11 - Why economists donate the least to charities00:49:58 - Why effort greatly increases your price perception01:00:06 - The real cause of misinformation and why it isn't what you might think01:12:18 - What will be Dan Ariely's new book?01:13:38 - Why we are so afraid of mistakes

Yes, that infamous -- Roman dodecahedron. So? What was it? A tool? A weapon? A religious artifact? A toy? A candleholder? A multi-purpose cosmic Swiss Army knife for the ancient world? Nobody knows. And that, my friends, is what makes it so deliciously fascinating.

The Chicago Sky's 2025 WNBA Draft selections prioritize shooting, size, and playmaking. Haize and Stevo analyze the team's four picks, including Ajsa Sivka, a versatile 19-year-old forward with professional experience. They discuss Haily Van Lilth's scoring prowess and potential fit in the guard rotation. Maddy Westbeld from Notre Dame emerges as a potential Swiss Army knife, capable of playing multiple positions. The guys discuss Aicha Coulibaly defensive strengths and transition game. Overall, the Sky addressed key needs, earning a B-minus grade from the hosts. Tune in for insights on how these draft picks could shape the Sky's future and impact the upcoming training camp battles.Links: ⁠https://linktr.ee/chicagoskycentral⁠Get at us:Email: ChicagoSkyCentral@gmail.comTwitter:⁠@ChicagoSkyPod⁠Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Connectivity is critical to every cloud workload, video call, and customer transaction, so Massive Networks is offering a new vision for MSPs to deliver next-generation network services. In a podcast recorded for Technology Reseller News, Ken Totura, Chief Channel Officer, and James Coberly, CTO, unveiled the company's “Carrier Evolved” initiative and its flagship solution, One Pipe Multi-Connect. “Carrier Evolved isn't just a tagline—it's a rethink of what a modern network provider should be,” said Totura. “It's about reliability, security, simplicity—and a true partnership with MSPs.” One Pipe Multi-Connect: More Than a Pipe—A Platform The centerpiece of the initiative is One Pipe Multi-Connect, a high-performance fiber transport system that lets MSPs deliver multiple isolated services over a single physical connection. These can include: Premium blended internet Private Layer 2 networking VoIP-dedicated bandwidth IoT segmentation Direct cloud on-ramps (to Azure, AWS, GCP and more) Services can be scaled, modified, or added within 24–48 hours, providing the flexibility required by seasonal businesses, multi-site operations, and evolving hybrid workforces. “Think of it as a Swiss Army knife for enterprise connectivity,” said Coberly. “We're delivering data center-grade internet and private cloud access directly to the customer premises.” Built for MSPs, Not to Compete with Them Unlike some providers that sell over or around their partners, Massive Networks is 100% channel-first. The company provides engineering consultation, 24/7 live support, and a referral and revenue model that helps MSPs grow monthly recurring revenue (MRR) and increase their valuation. “MSPs can offer a higher-grade, fully customized network solution without building a NOC,” said Totura. “We handle last-mile aggregation, private transport, and cloud connectivity—globally.” Consultative, Customized Connectivity The “Carrier Evolved” approach also changes the customer conversation. By helping MSPs deliver robust, consultative, and customized network services, Massive Networks empowers end-customers to: Increase productivity by segmenting traffic and prioritizing apps Enhance brand reputation with faster, more reliable services Reduce TCO with consolidated billing and multi-service flexibility “CIOs want a simplified, secure network stack with fewer vendors and better control,” said Coberly. “We let MSPs be the single point of truth and trust.” Massive Networks supports access to 65+ million lit buildings, 500+ cloud on-ramps, and true Layer 2 isolation—with hardware encryption options for regulated industries. The Bottom Line Carrier Evolved means reliability, security, and simplicity—and it's giving MSPs a new reason to lead the connectivity conversation. Learn more at www.massivenetworks.com

The Chicago Bulls' recent game against the Cleveland Cavaliers showcased promising performances from Matas Buzelis and Patrick Williams. Buzelis impressed with his point forward skills, displaying the versatility that makes him a potential Swiss Army knife for the team's future. Williams, despite inconsistencies, delivered a standout 21-point game, reigniting discussions about his role and potential. The Bulls face a crucial matchup against the Miami Heat, with playoff implications on the line. Can they capitalize on their strategic rest and secure a vital win? Meanwhile, Lonzo Ball's return remains uncertain, leaving fans wondering about his future with the team. Tune in for in-depth analysis of these key storylines and their impact on the Bulls' playoff push.Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPodGet at us:Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.comTwitter:@BullsCentralPodPhone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬Our Sponsors:* Check out Cigars International and use my code BULLS20 for a great deal: https://www.cigarsinternational.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/chicago-bulls-central/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

There are DL's LITERALLY all over the world. This week, we're introduced to a 19 year old DL, doing his National Service in the Swiss Army! Plus, why is a DL's boyfriend calling coffee 'java' and will the Whitehalls be going on safari any time soon?You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.comOr, perhaps you'd like to send a WhatsApp message or Voice note? Why not?! Send them in to +447712147236This episode contains explicit language and adult themes that may not be suitable for all listeners.Please review Global's Privacy Policy: https://global.com/legal/privacy-policy/

Welcome to this unplanned email special. Jane and Fi cover pointless work experience, two-wipe poos, Jane's breast enlargement and Swiss Army knives. If you fancy sending us a postcard, the address is: Jane and FiTimes Radio, News UK1 London Bridge StreetLondonSE1 9GFPlease send your suggestions for the next book club pick! If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioFollow us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producer: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to The Best Idea Yet here: https://wondery.com/links/the-best-idea-yet/Before 2007, mobile phones had tiny keyboards, crappy screens with internet so slow - you could finish a super burrito while waiting for your MySpace profile to load. Then Apple wowed the world with the iPhone: a digital Swiss Army knife that replaced cameras, maps, music players, AND created an entire new app economy. But the wildest part? Steve Jobs didn't even want to build it…at first. Once Steve finally said ""yes,"" the real work began: a top-secret team (codename: Project Purple), some engineering dead-ends (a click wheel), and a near-impossible engineering challenge. Even then, Apple barely pulled it off — the first iPhone prototype was so flakey, one wrong tap could have sunk Steve's big reveal. Find out the (many) ways the iPhone almost failed before it even launched, what drove Steve Jobs to order 4,000 lattes, how a single device reshaped society (and your screen time), and why the iPhone is the best idea yet.Subscribe to The Best Idea Yet for the untold origin stories of the products you're obsessed with — and the bold risk takers who made them go viral.Episodes drop every Tuesday, listen here: https://wondery.com/links/the-best-idea-yet/—-----------------------------------------------------GET ON THE POD: Submit a shoutout or fact: https://tboypod.com/shoutouts FOR MORE NICK & JACK: Newsletter: https://tboypod.com/newsletter Connect with Nick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-martell/ Connect with Jack: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-crivici-kramer/ SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tboypod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tboypodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tboypod Anything else: https://tboypod.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Graduation Day.  Book 3 in 18 parts, By FinalStand. Listen to the ► Podcast at Explicit Novels."You know nothing of what you speak of, Ishara, yet you now feel free to insult us," she simmered."Don't know, don't care. It was all before my time. I care about the 'here-and-now' as well as what we do in the future. What I am asking you is what concrete item or 'thing' can be provided to House Zorja to put this blood feud behind you. Name it and House Ishara will endeavor to procure it for you.""We are not merchants," Jana's eyes narrowed."No. I didn't imply you were. If you want new sandals for everyone in your House, I'll find you new sandals. If you want 100,000 acres of ranchland, I'll find you the land. Name it," I persisted."Our prestige cannot be bought," she 'explained'."No, but a blood feud with House Ishara can be avoided by making a request of us in the same way as expressing your desire to harm my daughter can be expressed by denying my offer," I hardened. "And 'fuck you very much' if you think I won't use every son, daughter, mother, aunt, and uncle of Ishara when I come gunning for House Zorja too.""You wouldn't dare bring outsiders into this," Klavdiya interjected."Why not? The offices of Ishara handed House Zorja the coup of the century ~ the capture of the People's Liberation Army Navy nuclear carrier. A member of House Zorja commanded that task, yet they did so by leading forces marshalled by House Ishara, outsider forces. You may wish to keep playing by old rules concerning who is and isn't part of a House, but I am not so constrained, sisters.""So Klavdiya, if House Meenakshi pursues its blood feud with House Zorja, House Ishara will gleefully join them in the pummeling. And we have Isharans in the 9 Clans, the Khanate and the Illuminati who will gladly help us out in slapping them around like the old-fashion curmudgeons they are showing themselves to be, or, House Zorja may request a gift from House Ishara and we will happily clear accounts between them and House Meenakshi in the name of our daughter, Parvati. Their choice.""You are still on the mats," Elsa reminded me. Sikia coiled protectively next to us."And you said something about a lesson being long overdue," Pamela smirked, "Kitten.""Cáel Ishara," Shawnee said in a soft voice, "perhaps it is germane to the argument: the fault of the blood feud rests with House Zorja, not House Meenakshi."I fell on my back, carrying Tad fi with me. She gasped out in surprise while remaining closely cuddled with me. Her right hand never left my lips."Why does no one tell me this shit?" I moaned."You are hard," Tad fi announced. "Are you ready to have more sex?" She was sounding upbeat about our prospects. She was also ignorant of our surroundings being deaf and blind to the mortal realm."Gossamer Wing," I created a pet name for the augur, "we are lying on the sparring mats of a large combat arena in the central Full-blooded training center for Havenstone with roughly 500 sisters in attendance (the audience had grown). While I am enticed by your scent, words, proximity and sweet memories of what we've shared, I'm probably going to be badly beaten up really soon for a terrific diplomatic snafu.""But then we can have sex?""Yeah. I'm totally up for having sex with you after they release me from Medical," I assured her. I looked around her to a very unhappy Mahdi."Can you find it in your heart to forgive House Zorja? Anything I can,""Yes," she abruptly cut me off.What the fuck?"At this time, my hatred of House Ishara, and you in particular, make any grievance I have with House Zorja pale in comparison. You have bewitched my only daughter. She bares your child, and it will be a wonderful child if the soiled augur you've stuck your cock in is to be believed," she ground out bitterly. "I want to go home. I want to find enemies to kill. And when I do, Cáel Ishara, know each and every one of them will carry your face in my mind."She turned to Jana. "Do you agree that we both hate Ishara enough to put aside our current differences?"Jana studied Mahdi, me, then Mahdi again and agreed. She stood. Mahdi stood. They clasped arms like Amazons, then hugged like sisters."Agreed. He is much worse."My thoughts on the matter. Woot! I was having sex! Oh, and I was making Aya happy by ending a blood feud."My admiration of you continues to increase," Krasimira looked at me. "This diplomacy stuff is harder than it looks yet you pull it off so effortlessly.""Yay me!" I muttered."Keeper, are we done?" Sikia asked Krasimira."I believe so," the older Amazon rose to her feet. Sikia was far faster in rising."Mahdi of Meenakshi, you have insulted me and my augur. Defend yourself," she snarled. If Tad fi hadn't been immediately present, Mahdi wouldn't have even warranted a warning no doubt."Had you done your job," Mahdi flowed into her fighting stance, "you both wouldn't be pregnant.""Whoa now," I struggled to rise while keeping Tad fi close and my body between her and the Meenakshi/Zorja side of the mat. "Sikia, I can't let you fight. You're pregnant too.""Don't be stupid, Cáel Ishara," Sikia retreated off the mat, so she could shed her jacket and footwear. "Amazons have fought pregnant for thousands of years.""Hold on now," NYPD Sgt. Larisa Kutuzov said in English as she moved forward. I was a millisecond too late. Larisa's foot touched down on the mat and Marlene Zorja popped her one, a hand chop to the larynx. The senior cop stumbled forward."Mom!" shouted Nikita. Marlene followed up with a leg sweep, putting Larisa face first on the mats, then a fist strike to the back of the head, knocking her out. Neat and tidy in less than two seconds.Nikita was about to charge in when Chaz stopped her."Footwear," he advised in the tone of voice I had learned to associate with him and imminent violence. The moment he stopped her, he was quickly removing his own socks and shoes. Virginia and Pamela were doing the same. I was allowed freedom of movement because I was holding Tad fi. Krasimira exited because of her unique status. The rest were already barefoot."Gale, could you please stay with Tad fi," I tried to hand her off."No," Gale looked me over. "I will fight." No hint on whose side she would be fighting on. Krasimira came to my rescue."I'll take her.""Tad fi," I told the augur, "I have to go get beaten up now, but I promise I will be back for you directly.""This is not your fight," Krasimira said. "The words and deeds are Sikia's.""A, she carries my child and B, the deeds being called into question are my fault.""You told me once they were the Will of Ishara," Krasimira mused."We are one in the same," I gave a lopsided grin."Be careful," Tad fi pleaded. "Your future is a chaotic jumble, I cannot see,""Eh, I've been very bad. We'll talk about it later. Gotta go," I headed onto the mats.Pamela was giving the ground rules to the 'normals': No 'fair warnings'. No 'fair play'. No 'time outs'. You fought until unconscious, or you surrendered."This is going to suck," Virginia assessed our odds. Two Amazons had removed Larisa from the mats and were tending to her. Nikita was kneeling by her side until she heard Virginia, then came our way.Besides Sikia, we had Pamela, Chaz, Virginia, myself and Nikita. Oneida stepping up was nice. She wasn't a great combatant, but we dearly needed the help. Gale joining us was, unsettling. Amazons don't play fair, so this could be a ruse.Against us were all three Zorja and both Meenakshi ~ I imagined Rhada felt she had something to prove to her mother. They'd picked up ten other Amazons and Rhonwenn Nemain. Klavdiya joined them to counterbalance her baby sister. Eight to seventeen ~ ouch."Damn," a familiar voice from my first days on the job spoke up from behind me, "we almost missed this." I didn't dare look over my shoulder. Desiree stepped between Chaz and Virginia. Rachel came up on my left and Tiger Lily on my right. At the tail end of our line was Mona, Meridian, Brielle and Wiesława. Fifteen to seventeen was looking much better, especially considering Desiree had brought five Security Detail warriors with her, all of whom were moving to further bolster our numbers."Rachel," Elsa looked to her underling, "you have no idea why you are fighting.""It is for Cáel. So it must be for a better tomorrow," Rachel laughed."Very well," Elsa smirked."You!" Mahdi pointed at me, and we both charged. It was a jumbled nightmare of clashing bodies, war cries and flashes of movement all around. Our side had two main advantages -While Chaz was by no means the best hand-to-hand combatant present, he knew the basic Amazon style and most Amazons didn't know his. Added to his overall height and bulk advantages, he bought us time.Of greater importance, Rachel, Tiger Lily and Mona had extensive training working as a team, which none of the opponents had.Elsa was the most dangerous individual on the mat. Pamela was the second most dangerous, so Elsa grabbed a couple of partners and ganged up on her to drive her off the mats. Chaz went next, out-Elsa'ed and beaten unconscious. The issue was, it took her too long to accomplish those two feats. By the time she rounded on me, Rachel and Tiger Lily, our half of the field had wiped out theirs. It was six of us (me, Rachel, Tiger Lily, Gale, Wiesława and Desiree) versus four of them (Elsa, Marlene, Klavdiya and Rhonwenn).Still, I was facing Elsa, so a judicious bit of treachery was required."Gale," I huffed and puffed, "please retire. I don't want you to fight your sister.""What?" Gale snapped. She'd taken a beating, yet remained feisty."No, fighting her sister is okay with me," Desiree scowled. "We are still facing fucking Elsa.""All the other women you have mated with have failed. I remain," Gale trumpeted."Oh, you are right," I half-turned. "All the reason you are more precious to me.""Really?""Of course," I deepened my introspective appreciation of her."Oh," and Klavdiya punched Rhonwenn. That was an 'oh, Cáel Ishara must actually care for my baby sister and not be just a Playa' on Klavdiya's part. Yeah. I'm a horrible fucking person at times.Rachel, Tiger Lily and I rushed Elsa. Marlene pivoted to ward against Klavdiya while Gale and Wiesława stormed in against her. Desiree helped Klavdiya finish drubbing Rhonwenn before they combined to force Marlene off the mats. Elsa chose to go down swinging in a dogpile of bodies. I took an ear-ringing blow to the head which allowed Rachel to apply a chokehold and it was lights out for the Head of SD.After some water bottles went around and those concussed returned to wakefulness, the resolution of the brawl was decided. Mahdi apologized to Sikia. It was short, terse and sparing of any empathy, yet was within the bounds of Amazon etiquette. She departed with Rhada, which left me to pick up the pieces, starting with Nikita's mom."Oh," the older woman moaned then, "Ms. Fredrickson? What are you doing here?""Avenging you, Mother," Nikita fluffed up the truth. "She, Cáel and the others cleaned house on the woman who jumped you and her allies.""Desk Sergeant," Desiree gave a curt nod."This isn't over," Larisa winced as she moved to a sitting position."Mrs. Kutuzov, it is over," I headed off a colossal waste of time. "This is my daily life and part of your daughter's life with JIKIT. You will find scant witnesses and no tape recordings of these events. This craziness is just another day in the life here at Havenstone. You stepped on the mat and thus became fair game to any physical confrontation an opponent cared to mete out. Consider this sovereign soil of an independent nation-state.""We," she looked around. "You kicked their asses?""Definitely," Pamela gave a feral snarl."This is plain nuts," she shook her head, winced in cranial pain, then put her aching head in her hands."One of the reasons we've put our dating in hiatus," Nikita comforted her mother while looking at me, and smiling affectionately.Ah, for fuck sakes! I was engaged to someone else and having a dozen kids by ten different women. How could I still possibly be considered viable dating material? Oh yeah, martial valor, laughing at death, I hung out with truly exceptional cool people and I would always be in need of saving, a plus for a crusader like Nikita.I had so many allies to tend to, but only one who seemed to be making an exit. I swooped down on Tad fi long enough to place her fingers to my lips."I'll be right back, friend of a friend in need," and off I went. I caught Tavi of House Stolgos just outside the door. She wasn't avoiding me. She'd been observing Chaz and he had been otherwise occupied.My British companion had played a pivotal role in the combat and taken his beating like a man. He'd been rendered unconscious. So had many others, so no stigma was attached to his loss. Post-battle, he had chosen to sit on his haunches, knees up, talking to several of the Amazons, both kneeling and standing. A few had been bystanders and a few others foes.He stayed on his ass to reduce his height advantage. Letting Amazons make eye contact while not having to look up at you created definite benefits. His good natured approach to his role in the fight and pummeling earned him positive vibes as well. He made it clear the tussle to him was not macho-personal. He was my 'brother / sister / sibling' spiritually-speaking via Pamela adopting us both as her 'grandsons', so my fights were his fights. Sikia had my (Cáel's) child, so that bond extended to her as well ~ family.Pamela and I had schooled him on Amazon psychology and those lessons were now paying serious dividends. 'The Male' hadn't wanted to fight them ~ 'Amazons are tough' he'd confessed, he knew this because he worked with several every day on JIKIT~ but family was on the line, so he fought. Mahdi had apologized, so the matter was settled. The other Amazons he'd fought? They had fought for their reasons and he was okay with not questioning them about it.Why? He was conscious of his conspicuous status as a 'guest', knew he was in no way an Amazon, and was not privy to what motivated them. He didn't want to be an Amazon. He had his own, much younger, martial tradition he was proud of, yet was eager to learn from the vastly greater Amazon war lore because 'winners' didn't have a gender-bias and no other tradition could compete with the Amazons' 3,000 years.Under normal circumstances, the women around him wouldn't have given credence to his praise. He was a male after all. Through the tiny tear I'd created in their insulating social fabric, Chaz was building upon his own exploits. In the after-battle analysis, the Amazons reflected on the realization Elsa had concentrated on him as her number two objective, second only to Pamela who scared everyone who knew anything about her. That bolstered Chaz's appeal.For the Amazons who thought a male would get all pouty and cry over being beaten up by a girl/girls, Chaz was breaking the mold. He wasn't angry. He was amused. The fight had been a learning experience and he'd felt honored to watch, no matter how briefly, a warrior of Elsa's caliber fight. He'd explained 'I', Cáel Wakko Ishara, considered Elsa one of the top 5 combatants I'd ever seen, which included Ajax the Unconquered. The others were Sakuniyas, reborn Amazon and former Queen of Assyria, Saint Marie, the Golden Mare, and Pamela, the Cliff-walker.More happy Amazons because the list's only non-Amazon was a dead Hero from the Trojan Wars and it was well known I 'got around' (aka dealt with violent outsiders.) Chaz was telling the truth, almost. The 'fifth' person on the list was Alal, but explaining him would be difficult, so Chaz edited him for this particular audience. Good man.In the hallway, "Tavi, a moment," I called out. She slowed down, took a few more steps allowing me to catch up."Yes Ishara?" she gave me her best neutral look. Yep. She was jealous."I beg two favors from you," I quickly went down to one knee in her path. That caught her off guard and left her in the awkward position of me being terribly close and staring up at her."I, I will listen," she muttered."I would like to know if you are pregnant," I asked very softly. Yes, she was, but she didn't want to tell me. She contemplated pushing past me. It would be very easy. "I know I am stepping beyond the boundaries between warriors. Please. My destiny has brought you two together. I am at fault here." 'Fault' was the key word."If I have a son, he will be given to the Queen," Tavi's face was stern and unforgiving. "He will live.""That's not what he's worried about," I shook my head. "He wants to be a father to your daughter, Tavi. He wants to introduce you to his mother and grandmothers, maybe his sisters too, if that can be arranged.""Huh?""He is not like me, Tavi. There is no other in his life, but you.""I, I will not leave my House for him," she protested angrily."He would never ask you. That doesn't mean he doesn't want to remain at your side for years to come. He can be a father to your child and not be a part of House Stolgos in the same way you can be a mother to your child and not be a part of Clan Tomorrow.""Oh," she furrowed her brow. "How would this possibly work?""I have an 'in' with the Queen," I winked. "I'll work out something.""He knows I will never stop being an Amazon," she elucidated intensely."Absolutely. He is an intelligence operative after all. He's figured a few things out for himself.""Why doesn't he tell me these things?""Tavi, he threw his body on top of me to shield me from a bomb blast, so he's undoubtedly brave, but telling you what is in his heart is scary for him. As his brother, I see behind his silence,""Oh, what should I do?" she was vexed."Go back in there, demand to speak with him and tell him the truth," I stood up."The truth?""That you are going to have a little StolgosTomorrow-ite running around sometime next year," I exuded confidential friendliness."Cáel Ishara," she tilted her head slightly, "you don't know much about infants, do you?""Nope," I pseudo-confessed. I actually did know something about newborns. I'd studied up so I could make a move on a cute girl whose free time was eaten up by babysitting, so I 'helped out'. Oink."They aren't 'running around'," she turned to head back into the gym, "until the ninth month at the earliest. Normally, running doesn't happen until the eighteenth month.""My fiancée has a three-year old, so she should be able to help me through some of the hardest parts," I babbled along. Tavi didn't give a crap.In we went. Tavi stormed straight toward the bevy of Amazon babes concentrating on 'her' Chaz."Color Sergeant Tomorrow," she abruptly interrupted. "A moment of your time.""Ladies," Chaz uncoiled himself from the surrounding women. The Amazons were either mildly put off, they thought they were about to get laid, or pissed off, they were sure they were about to get laid, and Tavi was stomping on their happy."Yes, Ms. Gentry," Chaz linked his hands behind his back in a 'rest easy' stance. 'Gentry' was the fake last name Tavi used in the outside world. She motioned toward the windows with her head. Off they went. I couldn't hear what was being said, but my lip reading skills were up to the task.T: (I am pregnant)C: (I love you)T: (Oh) ~ stunned. Go Chaz!C: (Well, I don't imagine the Amazons have a marriage ceremony and an Anglican service would be inappropriate, so perhaps we could research a Scythian ritual which could make both families happy) ~ delivered in the patented smooth Chaz style.T: (Marriage? To you?)C: (I will not submit to being anyone's slave nor would I ever ask you to submit to me. Outside of that, will you be my partner and my partner alone until the cliffs separate us?)T: (Amazons are not monogamous)C: (I am)T: (I will, I mean, can I think about this?)C: (I am not going anywhere, Tavi){Pause}T: (Did you put Ishara, Cáel Ishara up to this?)C: (Yes)T: (Why?)C: (I imagine he explained what I am feeling better than I could)T: (Oh, do you want me to meet your mother and grandmothers?)C: (Absolutely)T: (Okay)C: (Okay ~ you would like to meet my Mother and Grandmothers?)T: (No, yes, I mean, yes I would like to meet them and I am okay with you being with no other woman until the cliffs separate us, and I will do the same, no other males)C: (If I pick you up, hug you and kiss you, will your sisters freak out?)T: (I don't know)So Chaz swept Tavi up until her head was higher than his (a feat, considering their 8" height differential) and kissed her deeply. Mumbled words followed. Tavi wrapped her legs around Chaz's waist and out they went. Around me were angry murmurings of the 'did that Amazon just run off with our man' variety. Not my problem. I had plenty of different Amazons wanting my attention. Hallelujah!{8:00 pmDon't try this at home.I covered my face with a pillow and pressed down hard. I'd already tried breathing exercises, meditation and even contemplated more cranial trauma before thinking up this particular crazy idea. It took some mental effort and accessing some of my Alal-'pain sorting' skills to accomplish, but in the end, I felt myself 'let go'.I sat up."Hello," Tad fi beamed."Hey," I took a deep breath. Since we were talking, I must have passed out. Her eyes wandered over the room."Is this the world as you see it?" she wondered. Oh yeah, I had to be creating the environment for her to enjoy.Sikia was kneeling on the bed a foot away, her gaze moving between the two of us. The 'grayness' of her form suggested she was wholly in reality and not in the 'Ishara-space' the goddess had shown me and I was now sharing with my augur."This is how you see me?" she examined her fingers, her wrists, then some long locks of her hair."You are more beautiful," I answered. The impact of my words crossing over drew her eyes back to me. It was the magic of hearing for the normally deaf girl. I concentrated, peeled back some fantasy and attached a realistic form to Sikia. Tad fi followed my gaze."Your hair," she addressed her guardian, "It is lighter than I imagined."Sikia said something I couldn't understand, muffled as it was by my dreaming."I cannot hear you, but I see you through his eyes," the augur carried on her conversation. They touched. It had to be somewhat bizarre for Sikia. As she reached for Tad fi's hand, her friend intercepted the extended member. Their fingers intertwined before completing the journey to the guardian's lips."Don't cry, no, we couldn't have, no, we shouldn't have knocked him out sooner. I don't think he was aware of this discipline when we first met. Were you, Cáel?""No. Perhaps if I had understood more about the consequences of seeing ghosts, I might have," I tapered off. "Now that we know. I can try this more often.""Your health?" Tad fi worried."I might be immortal," I confessed. I was confessing because I was desperately seeking a way to share some of my genetic quirkiness with her ~ some strength to carry her through this pregnancy and spare her life, Dot Ishara be damned."And you would seek a way to spare me," she graced me with her gentle presence. Lying in the 'spirit' world was a whole lot tougher than in the flesh."Yeah. I've got some arcane lore rattling around in my head, plus I have a few outside sources I can ask for help. I'm not giving up on you.""I have foreseen my death.""Well, un-foresee it," I scolded her. "Dot Ishara told me we see what might happen, though nothing is guaranteed. So even your death isn't an absolute. Since it hasn't happened, I see no reason to let it happen. You are going to live to hold our daughter. If not, my immortality is worthless.""You can never save everyone. Sometimes you must let a few go to save the rest," she advised."If I find someone I'm not attached to, I'll let them go. I promise. Until then, I'm, ugh, I'm fading, and I'm keeping you.""We shall see," she murmured. I fell back into my body and into wakefulness."Now we have sex," Tad fi announced in a melodic voice."He is ready to perform," Sikia agreed. She was fondling my balls with one hand while her breath played across my rod. I sat up to see the augur climbing up the bed between my thighs. She kissed my glans, licked across its top, then kissed it again."I've got it from here," she told Sikia."What?" Sikia was confused. Tad fi's lips began to engulf my sceptre."Sikia, come here," I gently pulled on her arm. She was conflicted yet up some came.We started out with tender kisses on the lips. I kept drawing her toward me. My lips and tongue migrated down her chin and throat to her breasts. When she thought my target was her breasts, she was all onboard. That was a mere stop-off point on my journey, though I played around for a while.At the same time, I had to use subtle movements with my hips and clenches with my gluts to school Tad fi on her fellatio. Thankfully, I was doubly-blessed. This wasn't my first time schooling two girls at once and Tad fi could determine more from such minimal reactions due to her heightened sense of my muscle contractions through her touch than any other woman I'd ever met.When I began running my tongue in large lashes underneath her breasts, I confused Sikia once more. She was resistant as my hands on her hips pulled her higher so that my lips and teeth could tease her taut stomach while I twirled my tongue in her belly button. She giggled.I had been slowly wiggling down the bed, backing Tad fi up, so when it came time to mount Sikia on my face, I had the headboard room. I kept her muscular thighs securely in hand because the moment I had her happy, I pushed her up. She looked down, seeking guidance and I motioned her to turn around. She did the eye-ball math, realized she'd be facing her augur, and hastily obeyed. Of course, her movement on the bed alerted Tad fi through mattress vibrations.Sikia was sitting on my face, leaning down so she could run her hands through Tad fi's hair and along her face and lips (and my phallus). I kept my hands pressed between our bodies. My right made the sojourn to my pubic area to play around and give them both something else to suck on, my fingers. My left loitered around between Sikia's breasts and her clitoris when my lips were otherwise occupied.I could cup her clit with my tongue in a U-shape, rubbing it along my taste buds. Most of my time was taken up with my tongue broad lashing her vulva or tightly-twisted and delving into her cunt and my nose pushing against her brown hole. I could tilt myself up so I could make tongue-intrusions into her back passage as well. The first time, she squealed.Before she could decide if she wanted to make me stop (she did, virtually all first timers always default to asking their partner to stop, so you have to distract them), Tad fi wanted to know what had brought her reaction on. Then came Sikia's troubled revelation of what I was doing, how the augur shouldn't suffer through it, despite the increasing pleasure she was receiving, only to finally be unable to supply the answer as to why Tad fi shouldn't experience it too.Sikia shot me a treasured look of bewilderment. I'd brought her to orgasm with my tongue alone. I was a guy after all."Switch?" I suggested. Tad fi was still administering one of the slowest, most considerate blowjobs I'd ever experienced. She wasn't rushing toward anything. Sure, she was unschooled, but was devoting her incredible sensitivities to my pleasure and taking pleasure in her ability to bring me to such excitement."Change places?" she mused. "Okay." Tad fi's lips slid off me with one final, loud 'pop', then she used her spider-like fingers to climb up my body while Sikia traveled south. She lavished butterfly kisses on my face ~ childish, yet so very appropriate between us ~ and I mirrored the gesture.With some reluctance, she mounted me, facing Sikia. My tongue flicking across her clit on its first exploration brought out a joyous gasp. It only got better from there.The Long Slide Into Domestic Life:"Twins?" Hana snuggled into my arms. We were at her place, naked in bed together after a late late-night unscheduled meeting with some VIPs. Despite the late/early hour, she was alert, tense even. It had been a mentally stimulating late night encounter which had brought me to her bed."Yes. That is what Tad fi predicted," I inserted between raining kisses down on her forehead. Hana liked non-distracting attention when she was in this kind of mood. She was exhausting herself mentally as she was building up to being amorous."Ana-Călina and  rp d?" she worked over the names on her tongue. "They have a special meaning?""Only if you are Hungarian and Romanian," I teased her. She elbowed me slightly. " rp d was the semi-mystical pagan warlord who led the Ten Tribes who became known as the Hungarians ~ the Magyar peoples ~ into the Carpathian Basin, present day Hungary. Ana-Călina was born a Byzantine princess of the storied House of Basarab; she married Radu Negru, thus becoming the first Princess of a free Wallachia ~ the foundation for a free Romania. She was also the great-grandmother of Dracula.""So they are famous names with regional historical significance, did they live long, happy lives?"" Árpád, no one knows for sure. His kids were quarrelsome, but they did manage to found a dynasty at the start of the second millennia which ruled for three centuries.""Ana-Călina, yeah. I think so," I continued. "She lived into her seventies and her eldest son left his country stronger, richer and safer than when he received it. She did out live her husband by over fifty years, and got to see her youngest grandson bury most of his rivals, the kids from her husband's first marriage.""Ah, what?" Hana rose up until we were eye to eye. Since she was naked, her boobs swayed slightly as she did so. My eye flickered. "Eyes forward, Mister," she playfully barked. "What happened to all her other grandsons?""Wallachia in the 15th century was a tad rough and tumble," I evaded."They killed one another?""Mostly they were killed by conspiracies amongst their boyars, nobles of the time.""Why does, Tad fi want to dredge up these names again?" she kept eye contact."Not a clue," I pleaded."But you think it is important?""No. I think you are important. Screw Fate. It can name its own kids. We can chose whatever names make you happy, except 'Up'. Up's been taken.""You've named another of your offspring 'Up'? That's cruel, or does that mean something in another language I'm unaware of?" she shifted her shoulders so her boobs wobbled again. Of course, I broke eye contact. I hadn't had sex in hours and her boobies were right there, damn it!"Actually, Pamela and I named this secret agent in Hungary that, just to fuck with his head," I divulged."Oh. Pamela. I should have known," she slowly smiled. "You are being very well behaved," she added. Woot! She noticed I wasn't throwing her down and pawing her delectable flesh. "One more thing before the nookie.""Name them. Their dead," I pledged."Not necessary," her sigh turned into a giggle. "If I'm going to be having twins, I'm going to be rather big come late March. We need an earlier wedding date."Oh, fuck me!"What do you have in mind?" I tried to keep the creeping dread out of my voice."New Year's Day?" she suggested. I did a quick calculation. That was annihilating 78 days out of what remained of my bachelor life. In 114 days my life would cease having any meaning whatsoever. I'd be a Mr. to someone's Mrs. The end"Sure, I can arrange to be killed before then," stumbled out of my mouth."What was that?" Hana pouted."Nothing Dear. Cosmic psychic intersection with an Al -demon; don't know what came over me," I fibbed."Man up," Hana bit my nose. "Our marriage won't be that bad if we both work at it. It isn't like I'm demanding celibacy from you." Then she mouthed 'yet'."Wait. Did you mean celibacy, as in no fun at all, or monogamy, as in only 'happy time' with you?" I desperately sought clarification."Oh," she pursed her lips. "I meant monogamy. I didn't mean to scare you.""Oh, thank goodness," I sighed."Here," her gaze turned tender. "Let me make it up to you." Hana placed one hand on my shoulder and rose up my body until my face was gently nestled in her bosom. Then she wiggled back and forth, basically because I'm a big baby and easy to please. I was alternating which nipple I was kissing in no time."Mmm," she murmured. "I've missed you." Her other hand's fingernails coasted down my abdomen and found 'Mr. Happy' had risen to attention. Okay, he'd been hopping up and down on my groin since she'd said we were 'going to bed' 30 minutes ago. Hana decided wrap up my shaft with her hand, then applied a few tender strokes. I reciprocated by cupping her left tit in one hand, forming a mound with her areola at the center, and began to twirl from the outside inward to her hardened nipple with just the tip of my tongue.It was 4 a.m. Why was I taking it slow when I had my final work review with Katrina in three hours? Hana deserved this and more. Why was Hana doing it? She was her own boss, plus her life was careening wildly outside of anything she'd imagined before she'd first laid eyes on me. Half of the financial empire she shared with her father was suddenly in the hands of a military dictatorship, her beloved father was dealing with the murder of her hated step-brother and she was marrying a Prince in a European cathedral which required someone high in the Vatican's approval process to use.Yeah, her life had gone nuts. Worse, she loved me. And I wasn't the kind of man she ever thought she'd love. She'd thought she'd never love anyone again after her life with her asshole of an ex-husband and their bitter, contentious divorce. I was barely someone she could classify, and Hana was a terribly ordered and organized person. Saying my life was messy was being generous. I was some mysterious warrior-diplomat-playboy-aristocrat who hung out with people more bizarre than me.Hana picked up her tempo. I switched breasts. Her motor was really starting to hum. Any other night, I could have moved straight to revving her up to an orgasm. I had the time to make it two without any problems. A good one and Hana would be happy and drift off to sleep. Instead, I intuited she wanted more, so we developed our own game of cat and mouse with her climax, and its suspension, being our ultimate goal.My left hand danced down the back of her ribcage like playing keys on a piano. It was a light, teasing gesture. Her hair the color of tarnished gold cascaded down as she began placing her own kisses upon my crown. Each move by one partner evoked a response by the other. Hana ran my glans over her glistening labia, getting it nice and slick. I worked down her waist, cupped her ass, and then glided over her thigh to the back of her knee where I started tickling her. She snickered."You are distracting me," she murmured. I wasn't. I knew these things."I like to get the feel of every inch of your flesh," I responded. More mirthful noises from her. Slowly, her gooey vestibule rubbed against and over the top, until I felt myself entering. There, she hesitated. I propelled my hips an inch up, twisted right then left before falling back down, a micro-fuck."Ah," she emoted her approval. "My turn." Hana's knees spread to the side, making a memorable sound on the silk sheets as she impaled herself. This time she rolled her hips forward, back, then did a slow 360 with me  inside her, letting the slow progress over her spark memories for her to savor. "I never believed sex could be like this," Hana hiccupped."How so?" I knew the answer, but wanted her to put her chaotic passions to words. It would make her happier."Experimenting, silly. Stopping in the middle and doing, this," she reversed her hip rotations this time. "I never imagined a lover having such patience, or,""Yourself as being so openly sexually adventurous?" I finished."Yeah," she huffed. "I really, really owe your college professor, plus you and all your diligence, for this," at the last moment, she encountered the gateway to her G-spot. I knew precisely where that gem was. Previously, Hana had gained a vague idea where it was from the perspective of masturbation and our prior lovemaking. Now I had let Hana rediscover that joy with my cock as her tool to utilize as she wished."You realize pregnant women want even more sex," she hummed. She was vigorously working my cock now. Hana had bridged a huge gap, sexually. Normally, a woman of Hana's quality tried to please her man first with the hope her orgasm would soon follow. I was different. My greatest sexual gratification came from her ecstasy. She was confident in that now. By bringing herself to climax, she was making me excited for what would come next."That's okay," I propped myself up on one elbow now that Hana was riding me cowgirl-style. "I dig big chicks." The open-palm slap to the chest was a given."Hercege, you, you are horrible," she growled around a feral smile. The lip-biting, tongue-sucking kiss was equally vicious, primal and leading Hana to the end of her tether. Not only was Hana's sexual trust in me/us expanding, she was putting extra effort into her physical workout regime too. She might still have a ways to go to compete with an Amazon, but it was still going to be a great night."Hercegn , I am nothing but a twisted shadow of masculine lust whose every contour is cast by your muliebrous glow," I teased. Her eyes twinkled. Yes, definitely still going to be a great night."Okay," Hana yawned, "I give up. What does 'muliebrous' mean?" She'd been holding on to that for an hour and a half. It was five-thirty and I was dressing in my biking clothes before heading into work."From the Latin 'muliebri' which means 'womanly'," I answered. Her sleepy eyes drank in both my response and my physique. I had discovered another thing Hana liked and that was to expand her academic/linguistic frontiers. She was enchanted with the idea that I liked to engage her mind along with her body, sparking on all cylinders.She'd crawled over to my side of the bed, her head resting on my pillow, soaking up my scent as she watched me. I knelt down, kissed her on her ear, cheek and finally the side of her lips. Hana was beat."Have a good day and be careful," she mumbled. Her eyes closed. Her chest rose with one last, waking breath before her sleep rhythms took her."Ditto," I whispered. I snuck into  Annela's room and planted a kiss on her head as well. The craziness of my life had a way of cascading over to the ones I loved. Loved? Oh boy,7:00 am Monday, September 8th, Graduation Day!Brielle and her buddy were humming along as the elevator doors closed. Once more, my 'hellish' schedule demanded I change in the elevator. I'd gone to gun practice with my bike clothes on, so I absolutely had to change into business attire in the magic box, in front of them.Juanita adjusting my tie was a less than subtle attempt to strangle me. I was about to be late to my final 'start of day' meeting as an intern in Executive Services, so her chastisement would have to wait. Who would have thunk it? Juanita would have to wait outside for this ceremony. Paula raced with me to be the last one in, only to have Daphne grace us with the 'news':"The meeting won't start for another fifteen minutes," she grinned. "Katrina is bringing up the 'new hires' for the fall program."I finger-flicked my head. The 84 days as an intern was merely the 'training wheels' period. To really be a member of ES was at least a two year training process. The Amazons around me had started their training for this gig when they were fifteen and were eighteen and nineteen now, their ID's said they were older for legal purposes.In theory, my four years in college was counted as 'preliminary' training and provided things such as acclimation to outsider culture ~ aka 'acting normal'. Logically, I would train under someone like Desiree or Buffy for a year before being a full-fledged member of the service."How many this time?" I asked Daphne since she seemed to be in the know."Twenty," she grinned. "We are getting two."I noticed there was still only my tiny desk in Katrina's office. That meant the new guys would be out in the office pool with everyone else. Probably for the best. The ladies were now used to having a male around, so would be careful in what they did and didn't say. I yawned."Tired," Fabiola smirked."Oh yeah," I stifled another yawn. "Met an emissary from the Pope." Fabiola glowered. "No. Seriously. I met an emissary from Holy See. I let Hana know I wanted to get married in a highly improbable place, a ruined cathedral, so she contacted the Catholic Church and one of their guys wanted to meet with me.""That had to be fun," Tigger grinned. "What does the Cult of the Nazarene think of you and the Goddess Ishara?""We actually discussed polytheism and the place of an omnipotent, omnipresent being in the scope of things," I placed my hands behind my back and rocked back and forth. "It was quite interesting. The guy knew his shit."By that, I meant he was probably with the Pope's Secret Service as well as a Brainiac with a PhD in something. He'd promised to be in touch as soon as he heard back from his superiors. He had this hot chick with him who I suspected was a nun. And if his driver wasn't ex-military, it was because he was still in the service. On the plus side, Hana had been beaming when we left, which assured me the meeting had gone well, so we had sex from 4 AM until 5:30, thus my current fatigued state."Are you going to abandon your faith?" Fabiola taunted me."I don't have faith, Fabiola of Minerva. Faith would imply I don't know there are supernatural entities screwing with our lives. I know they do exist, I've met a few. To satisfy your disingenuous curiosity, we discussed the nature of the Weave and it being the possible manifestation of God's Will.""How did that go?" Paula appeared interested."He strongly suggested I should 'revisit my Catholic roots' soon. By that, I think he meant I'm supposed to start attending church regularly," I shrugged. "The Pope is sending an envoy to the Great Khan too, so odds are good I'm getting married," I pronounced the last bit as the doom-laden prediction it was."Oh, yes," Fabiola reached passed Paula and smacked me in the chest with the back of her hand. "That is for insinuating you and I had intercourse to my Mother and the Council.""Was that chastising me for lying, or for not making it so?" I winked."Ah, no!" she pouted. "Stop lying about me."I looked down at my phone."We've got twelve minutes," I double-pumped my eyebrows. "Want to go to Katrina's bathroom?""What! No!" Fabiola

Could PEMF therapy be the missing link in your health journey? In this enlightening episode of Vitality Made Simple, Dr. Debbie Ozment, DDS, sits down with Dr. William Pawluk, a functional medicine expert and leading researcher in PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy. After experiencing three gastric bleeds and seeing the limitations of conventional medicine firsthand, Dr. Pawluk turned to integrative solutions, leading him to explore the transformative effects of PEMF therapy.Dr. Pawluk explains the key differences between harmful electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from everyday technology and the therapeutic benefits of PEMFs. Unlike EMFs from cell phones and Wi-Fi that may be absorbed by the body, PEMFs safely pass through the body, stimulating healing without adverse effects.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Pawluk describes why PEMF therapy is often called a “Swiss Army knife” for health. He highlights its benefits, including reducing inflammation, providing pain relief, improved circulation, and tissue repair. He also discusses its role in stimulating acupuncture meridians and supporting the body's natural healing processes.Dr. Pawluk dives into the practical applications of PEMF therapy, explaining how it aids in conditions like non-healing fractures and joint replacements. He stresses the importance of magnetic field intensity—recommending 15 gauss as optimal for reducing inflammation—and breaks down the various PEMF devices available, from small portable units to high-powered systems.Addressing concerns, Dr. Pawluk clarifies that PEMF therapy does not cause harm but may reveal underlying health conditions. He distinguishes it from grounding or earthing, which are weaker forms of electromagnetic field interaction, and elaborates on how PEMF devices can promote cellular healing.As they delve into the science and real-world applications of PEMF therapy, Dr. Pawluk provides essential insights into how this technology can enhance well-being and optimize health naturally.Visit my website DrDebbieOzment.com for valuable free downloads. Additionally, you will find shopping links which I have curated on the website. Please follow me on instagram at drdebbieozment.

Check out World Anvil here! https://worldanvil.com/?c=D4 - Use the promo code d4 at checkout to save 51%!Proficient in every skill by 5? Let's go skill -Monkey- Gorilla!Table of Contents of all D&D Builds to date: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18lsjEdNIXayLCUsv9v-Afx-y3MEone2c2EGszBtGw8U/edit?usp=sharingI'd appreciate it if you'd consider supporting the channel by becoming a member or patron!https://www.patreon.com/c/dnddd ORhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9jQ2IsZj_CAS0bZgA6O2pA/joinMerch Store! https://www.etsy.com/shop/d4DnDDeepDiveAlso: if you'd like to purchase content through my Amazon affiliate link, it would be another way to help support the channel :) - https://www.amazon.com/shop/d4dddeepdive?listId=MFEYK9W51D9K&ref=idea_share_infFollow me here:Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/colbypoulson.bsky.socialTwitter (X): https://twitter.com/ColbyPoulsonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dndoptimizedCheck out Randall Hampton here:Twitter: https://twitter.com/Randall_HamptonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/randallhampton/Website: https://www.randallhamptonart.com/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/randall_hamptonIntro 0:00Level 1 5:36Level 2-6 11:12Level 7-9 20:11Level 10-13 28:45Level 14-17 34:03Final Thoughts 38:17Outtakes 42:09Master Sustained Damage Comparison:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1HPMg7cDqOC-0-vNFgEV9E5WQLDdCOdI64Vbnu60pC78/edit?usp=sharingThanks to LudicSavant for the amazing DPR calculator! https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?582779-Comprehensive-DPR-Calculator-(v2-0))Music Credits:Achaidh Cheide - Celtic by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100340Artist: http://incompetech.com/Angevin 120 loop by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1200111Artist: http://incompetech.com/Celtic Impulse - Celtic by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100297Artist: http://incompetech.com/Fiddles McGinty by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1400051Artist: http://incompetech.com/Lord of the Land by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1400022Artist: http://incompetech.com/Master of the Feast by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1400019Artist: http://incompetech.com

This week Devo is in some seriously hot water, and he's not alone. Best to just move on without asking too many questions about that one. Meanwhile, Steve Goodie might be in over his head, Tom Cardy has some questions for dating apps, and Blombird is dropping science. This might get weird. 1. "My Wife's in a Five-Way" by Steve Goodie 2. "Dating Apps Can Sit and Rotate" by Tom Cardy 3. News of the Stupid! 4. "Vance, the Swiss Army Knife" by Blombird Steve Goodie is at SteveGoodie.com and his new album is available at SteveGoodie.bandcamp.com The FuMPFest 2024 compilation can be found at FuMPFest.com Tom Cardy is on YouTube Blombird is on your favorite streaming service Thank you to our Patreon backers for making this show possible!!!

This week we meet the brown bear, the Swiss Army knife of mammals. We learn what the bear necessities really are, and what it takes to be smarter than the average bear. In the news, we look at the maddening story of an influencer who kidnapped a baby wombat, and what this says about how we interact with wildlife. All this and more. The cupboard is open, come on in!

Taysom Hill has been called a “Swiss Army knife” because of his ability to play many positions on the football field. And, while he has taken each of these positions seriously, when injuries have kept him from being able to suit up, Hill knows that his identity does not begin and end with playing football. On this week's episode, Hill shares with us insight into his life as a football player but also as a son, a husband, a father, a brother, and a disciple of Jesus Christ. 2:27- Nature Vs. Nurture? 9:06- What Makes a Great Coach? 14:37- “Taysom Gets Rocked” 18:57- Approaching the Topic of a Mission in Recruiting 24:10- Meant To Be At BYU 27:26- The Weight of the Job 30:16- #7 34:57- Season-ending Injuries 37:59- Drew Brees 42:23- A Disciple and Dad in the NFL 48:59- Infertility 54:56- What Does It Mean To Be All In the Gospel of Jesus Christ? “There's no part of me that ever questions God's goodness.” Source information: Another great podcast with Taysom Hill- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xh_41cOQATE Taysom on Leading Saints- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31Wpdpuuvdg

Artificial intelligence has come a long way over just the past few years. It can hold conversations and manage social media, it can create art and edit videos, and it can even write blogs (though not this one). Every aspect of our lives has been touched by AI in one way or another, and that's particularly true for sound. While many podcasters, including some of my guests, now use AI tools for research and sound editing, it's also front and center in sound, from cloning voices to writing its own songs. Royalty-free music is already starting to give way to copyright-free AI music, and a variety of powerful audio content generation tools are scheduled for release later this year.But can computers replace human composers? Will listeners be able to tell the difference? And how did we get from vinyl records to virtual music? It may seem hard to believe, but the very first song written by a computer is older than cassette tapes. The Illiac Suite, or “String Quartet No. 4,” as it's officially named, was created in 1955, using pioneering techniques still found in AI today.The ILLIAC I (ill-ee-ack one) was one of the world's first computers. It was built in 1952 at the University of Illinois, and it filled an entire room. The ILLIAC I weighed five tons and used over two thousand vacuum tubes, some of which had to be replaced each night. A pair of music professors, Lejaren Hiller and Leonard Isaacson, programmed the ILLIAC to compose a string quartet using what's called “stochastic music,” music that's written using probability calculations and mathematical sequences – in this case, Markov chains – instead of human inspiration.One of the researchers who helped build the ILLIAC I was Saburo Muroga, who also built the MUSASINO-1 later that year in Japan. And, as it happens, another breakthrough in computer-generated music would emerge from Japan exactly fifty years after the Illiac Suite's release.Synthetic voices were the next step in creating digital music, and in 1961 the IBM 7094 became the first computer to sing a song, “Daisy Bell.” Another computer voice that could sing was called Perfect Paul, and it was one of the voice settings on 1983‘s text-to-speech DECtalk device. This is the speech synthesizer Professor Stephen Hawking used in his later years, and it was based on the voice of MIT researcher Dennis Klatt. The next decade brought us Auto-Tune, which can digitally modulate singing voices in real-time and has become, for better or worse, a staple of pop music.These developments all came together in 2004 as “Vocaloids,” synthesized voices that can talk and sing with perfect pitch. The most famous of them by far is Crypton Future Media's Hatsune Miku, a second-generation Vocaloid who debuted in 2007. While there have been four more generations and many more voices since then, Miku is the one who captured the public's eyes and ears. Arguably the world's first virtual celebrity, she's opened for Lady Gaga, put in a holographic appearance at the 2024 Coachella festival, and just wrapped up her latest ‘Miku Expo' world tour last December.In some ways, Miku and the Vocaloids that followed marked a turning point in synthetic voices. Older synthesizers like Perfect Paul and Microsoft Sam couldn't be mistaken for an ordinary person, but Vocaloids come closer than anything before – so close, in fact, that some music critics have said they fall into a sort of audio uncanny valley. They sound almost, but not quite, human.Now it's the year 2025, and AI has taken the stage: it's talking, singing, composing, and even creating whole new kinds of sound. Both OpenAI's Jukebox and Google's AI MusicLM can convert text into music, and Nvidia's upcoming Fugatto software is described as a sonic “Swiss Army knife” for creating sounds that have never existed, like a screaming saxophone or a trumpet that meows. Another new song-generation service by Musical AI and Beatoven.ai that's set to...

The towing industry stands at a crossroads of tradition and transformation, and Mike Lampert is leading the way forward. In this revealing conversation, the CEO of New England Truck Center shares his remarkable journey from a family business handling a single truck tow monthly to orchestrating over 100 calls daily across multiple locations in the Northeast.Lampert pulls back the curtain on how consolidation is reshaping towing operations, creating something the industry has historically lacked: genuine career paths. "I feel like this industry has to mature to a place where operators are looked at with respect," he explains, comparing his vision to how utility linemen are viewed—professionals with benefits, retirement plans, and sustainable schedules.Through partnerships with private equity firms, Lampert has executed a strategic growth plan that benefits both business owners and employees. For owners, it offers financial security without personal guarantees looming over every equipment purchase. For workers, it creates advancement opportunities beyond the glass ceiling typically found in family-owned operations.The conversation delves into practical advice for those considering selling their businesses: invest in quality systems, maintain clean financials, and work with specialized professionals. "You get paid a lot more by making sure it's on the books," Lampert advises, addressing the industry's cash-handling reputation head-on.As New England's only NRC dealer, Lampert also discusses how his company builds and sells approximately 66 trucks annually, including the "Swiss Army knife" 40TB models that combine heavy transport capabilities with towing versatility.Whether you're a towing professional curious about industry evolution, a business owner contemplating your future, or simply fascinated by how traditional services modernize, this episode offers rare insights into a transformation happening right before our eyes. Ready to see where the road leads next?

Send JD a text message and be heard!$20M man.  @companyadjace @brandonfurtado2 is ecstatic that #howieroseman made @saquon the 1st #runningback at $20M per season.  Going for #superbowl back to back.  Another crushing blow to @nygiants fans @robparker1980 @thomaswdonovan & @cpd94_mk the pain never ends. @rho212 @okcthunder @shai put up 51.  Thunder 50-11 #nba season.  @kyrieirving @dallasmavs season goes from bad to worse. @antdavis23 might be shut down for season.  Ticket prices going up next season.  @nyknicks host @warriors tonight.  @nyrangers back to back shutouts and Tommy is excited.  @j.tmiller9 14 points in 11 games.  @dom_strebs22 went last night.  @jj_pegues5 the Swiss Army knife of #nfl players.  DT, FB &TE @olemissfb @nyjets make a play.  Rob, Tommy, Colm @kevdu_theman @brianbarnaby @nyquil_inthe_flesh @doctor_midnite @donna.fender @call_me_tca_prez & @anthonyyacc talked @yankees @ben_rice22 speaks Spanish @mets & @juansoto_25 misses the Bronx.  Child please! @mikalbridges #nfldraft @aaronrodgers12 maybe to @nygiants @nyjets @durant & #sportstrivia at the finish.All sports. One podcast. (even hockey) PODCAST LINK ON ITUNES: http://bit.ly/JDTSPODCAST

You probably know Gary Louris as the leader of The Jayhawks – or as they refer to themselves, “a band from Minnesota.” The Jayhawks are pioneers of roots rock, alt-country, and Americana. Whatever you wanna call it, they've been making records where rock, pop, country, and other forms of American roots music overlap since the mid-1980s.But Louris's hidden superpower is that he's kind of like a musical Swiss Army knife – he's basically got a creative skill for any application. Want him and his band to serve as accompanists for some of the most distinctive singer-songwriters, like Wesley Stage and Joe Henry? He can do that. Looking for achingly-perfect, near-fraternal harmonies on hit songs like Counting Crows' “Mr. Jones”? He can (and did) do that. If you're the Tedeschi Trucks Band or The Chicks and you're looking for someone to write you some catchy, melodic, roots-pop songs? Gary's your guy. If that's not enough, he has also produced records for artists like Dar Williams, The Sadies, and The Jayhawks, too. Whatever your musical need may be, chances are that Gary Louris can do it.In between all these varied musical roles, Louris has also found time to release several solo albums, the newest of which – 'Dark Country' – was released earlier this month. He recorded it mostly solo in his home studio and the word on the street is that this collection of songs, inspired by his wife, is his most intimate and romantic album yet. I've been a big fan of Gary Louris for basically my entire adult life and enjoyed our wide-ranging Basic Folk conversation, touching on the way technical limitations can shape an artist's style, what he's learned from a career's-worth of collaborations, his process working on his new solo album, the relationship between versatility and longevity, and what the influence of romance on his songwriting looks like now, in the fifth decade of his music career.Follow Basic Folk on social media: https://basicfolk.bio.link/Sign up for Basic Folk's newsletter: https://bit.ly/basicfolknewsHelp produce Basic Folk by contributing: https://basicfolk.com/donate/Interested in sponsoring us? Contact BGS: https://bit.ly/sponsorBGSpodsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Forget social media; if you want to drive traffic, newsletters are where it's at. Seriously, I've been crunching the numbers and guess what? My newsletter is pulling in way more visitors than my half-hearted attempts at tweeting or posting on Facebook. Yeah, shocking, I know. It's like trying to catch a fish with a toothpick when you could just use a net, right? So, in this episode, we'll look at why newsletters are the real MVPs of traffic generation, sharing some juicy stats and personal tales that'll have you reconsidering your social media obsession. Buckle up, because we're about to turn your traffic woes into wows!I also share some behind the scenes of a future episode.Takeaways: A newsletter is like a Swiss Army knife for driving traffic; social media is just a flimsy butter knife. Crazy thought: newsletters give you more bang for your buck than social media ever will, who knew?! Social media might be fun for scrolling, but newsletters actually get people to click and engage. Turns out, people prefer their marketing via email rather than social media, shocking right? If you're still chasing social media likes, maybe it's time to rethink your strategy and join the newsletter revolution. Newsletters allow for better audience segmentation, making it easier to deliver personalized content that actually resonates. Links referenced in this episode:School of Podcastingschoolofpodcasting.comAudience Surveyschoolofpodcasting.com/survey25SOP Episode on UTMschoolofpodcasting.com/896Dave's Newsletterpodcastingobservations.comschoolofpodcasting.com/newsletterschoolofpodcasting.com/dailyGary Arndt Everything Every Dailyhttps://everything-everywhere.com/Gary Interviewed on the School of Podcastinghttps://schoolofpodcasting.com/how-gary-arndt-adopted-the-audience-growth-strategy-from-the-movie-industry/Podnews Report Cardpodnews.net/report-cardLeave Dave a Reviewschoolofpodcasting.com/appleCaptivate Media Hosting No Payments 'Till Aprilsupportthishow.com/captivatePodcast Marketing Trends Survey (Please Fill Out)https://podcastmarketingacademy.typeform.com/to/DR7WmJbFPaul Gowder Email Tipshttps://www.paulgowder.com/Liz Wilcox Email...

In this episode of Changing Gears, Kat chats with industrial designer Sam Amis, whose career has taken him from innovating cutting-edge gear at Nike, to shaking up the world of everyday carry at The James Brand. They dive into his journey from art-loving high schooler to designing some of the most modern pocket knives out there. Sam shares behind-the-scenes stories from working with Timex, his love for iconic design (think Swiss Army knives and Air Jordans), and how his obsession with symmetry influences his work. They also geek out over watches, talk about the magic of good product design, and even touch on AI's growing role in the creative process. Whether you're a design nerd, a gearhead, or just love a good origin story, this one's a must-listen!We hope you like this new podcast format and really appreciate all the listeners! Kat has some awesome interviews in the works for those of you that love gear! To stay on top of all new episodes, you can subscribe to The Worn & Wound Podcast — now available on all major platforms including iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, Spotify, and more. You can also find our RSS feed here.If there's a question you want us to answer you can hit us up at info@wornandwound.com, and we'll put your question in the queue.Show Notes: Sam's Wrist CheckKat's Wrist CheckIDEOSchool of Design (DAAP)The James BrandSam's WebsiteSam's InstagramWindup Watch Fair's

Mohnish Pabrai's session with Cambridge Investment Banking Society at University of Cambridge on January 31, 2025. (00:00:00) - Introduction (00:01:38) - Marcus Aurelius: Stoic philosophy (00:04:28) - Learning from mistakes (00:09:01) - Ignore Macroeconomic factors (00:11:57) - Value vs growth investing (00:14:58) - Investing in Turkey: Reysas (00:19:22) - Venture Capital: Bill Gurley (00:23:06) - Handling the 2008 financial crisis (00:24:12) - Skills for value investing (00:27:02) - Look for undiscovered opportunities; Warren's Swiss Army knife approach (00:30:22) - Handling the portfolio concentration and risks (00:33:49) - Sam Walton (00:36:31) - All knowledge is cumulative (00:38:43) - Nick Sleep The contents of this website are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and do not purport to be, and are not intended to be, financial, legal, accounting, tax or investment advice. Investments or strategies that are discussed may not be suitable for you, do not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and are not intended to provide investment advice or recommendations appropriate for you. Before making any investment or trade, consider whether it is suitable for you and consider seeking advice from your own financial or investment adviser.

The Flipper Zero is like a Swiss Army knife for wireless tech enthusiasts. Today's guest, Jason Beshara, is teaching a course on the Flipper Zero device at WLPC Phoenix 2025. He discusses its functions, including its ability to send and receive a variety of radio signals including Bluetooth, NFC, and sub-gigahertz frequencies. The conversation covers... Read more »

Send us a textWhat's it like to be the Swiss Army knife of Major League Baseball? Don Kelly, the ever-adaptable bench coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates, shares his incredible journey from the field to the dugout, with stories that range from playing every position on the diamond to catching high-speed pitches as an emergency catcher for the Detroit Tigers. Don recounts his time under the legendary Jim Leland, offering humorous and insightful tales that showcase the grit and versatility needed to thrive in professional baseball.Our conversation with Donnie shifts from the field to the bench, where he illuminates the evolving role of coaching in today's fast-paced game. With younger players reaching the majors at lightning speed, Don explains how balancing the physical and mental demands of the game has become more crucial than ever. He shares his personal insights into the unique challenges faced by super utility players, underscoring the critical balance between practice and performance across multiple roles, and reveals how effective practice routines can make or break a player's career.As we wrap up the episode, Don dives into the heart of what makes baseball so compelling: the human connections and shared experiences that define a team's identity. From the camaraderie of minor league life to the strategic blend of traditional scouting and modern analytics, Don provides an inside look at how these elements form the backbone of team success. Through stories of leadership and clubhouse culture, Don paints a vivid picture of how player-led environments and strong mentorships, like those he experienced under Jim Leland, are essential for fostering winning teams. Don's reflections on leadership and team dynamics offer a rich tapestry of insights, leaving us eagerly anticipating his next appearance on "Hold My Cutter."THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!!www.holdmycutter.com

The Flipper Zero is like a Swiss Army knife for wireless tech enthusiasts. Today's guest, Jason Beshara, is teaching a course on the Flipper Zero device at WLPC Phoenix 2025. He discusses its functions, including its ability to send and receive a variety of radio signals including Bluetooth, NFC, and sub-gigahertz frequencies. The conversation covers... Read more »

What if heaven isn't a place but a frequency? What if everything you've ever known about life, death, and the great beyond was only a fragment of a much larger, incomprehensible whole? These are the questions we step into today as we welcome Cheryl Page, a former Dartmouth scientist turned medium, whose life has been a winding road of discovery, skepticism, and revelation. Having spent over two decades in the rigor of medical research, Cheryl Page never expected to find herself standing on the threshold between worlds, let alone speaking to those who have crossed it.Her story begins not with a gentle awakening, but with grief. A loss so profound it demanded answers beyond what science could provide. She calls it her "Galileo moment"—the realization that the universe was not as fixed and certain as she once believed. What if, she asked herself, the soul doesn't disappear but simply shifts octaves? That question became the wedge that pried open the door between dimensions, allowing Cheryl to not just believe, but to know.And then the signs began.Not the vague, wishful thinking of a grieving heart, but undeniable, synchronistic events—messages that could not be ignored. A bridge spoken of in private, appearing in a text from a stranger. An eagle soaring above, sent to her phone at the exact moment she mentioned it. A hitchhiker named Scott, speaking of her beloved Froggy, unaware of the cosmic joke the universe had just played. If the world was merely random, what were the odds?It was through these experiences that Cheryl came to redefine communication with the beyond. Mediumship, she realized, wasn't a passive reception of messages from the dead. It was a two-way street, a conversation—a vibrationship, as she calls it. "We are not meant to move on from those we love," she says, "but to move forward with them." That shift in understanding changed everything. The signs weren't gifts tossed from a distant heaven; they were real-time conversations with those who had merely stepped into another room.And then came the visitors—John F. Kennedy, Nikola Tesla, Helen Keller—each with wisdom to share. Not just words, but gifts. A Swiss Army knife from Yogananda, with every tool needed for the path ahead. A crystal stand from Gandhi, reminding that even warriors need a place to lay their burdens. A broom from Walt Disney, because sometimes the magic isn't just in the sweeping, but in the flying.This isn't a conversation about belief; it's about experience. Cheryl Page doesn't ask you to take her word for it. She invites you to explore your own connection, to test the waters of the unseen. "What if?" is the only question worth asking, she insists, because it pries open the rigid structures of certainty and makes room for something greater. And isn't that the real goal of life—to keep our eyes, our hearts, our very souls, just open enough for the miraculous to slip in?SPIRITUAL TAKEAWAYSYou are not separate from those who have passed. Instead of "moving on," consider moving forward with them. The veil is not outside of you; it is within, and it can be thinned.Imagination is not just fantasy; it is the mechanism by which Spirit communicates. The same mind that creates dreams is the one that receives divine wisdom—do not discount it.There is wisdom in everything. Whether it's the signs from a loved one or the symbolic gifts from the great minds of history, the universe is speaking in ways we have yet to fully understand.So, the question remains—what if you could reach across the veil? What if the signs you've been dismissing were messages meant just for you? What if heaven is closer than you think?Please enjoy my conversation with Cheryl Page.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/next-level-soul-podcast-with-alex-ferrari--4858435/support.

Foundations of Amateur Radio Have you ever come across a solution to a problem that you sort of knew you had, but didn't really appreciate until that moment? I had one of those recently. To set the scene, fair warning, we're not going to solve this today, we're still very much shaving yaks, but there's plenty to take away. So, the scene. I'm hosting my weekly net. It's going well. All the internet links are up and running again, thanks to the hard work behind the scenes of several unsung heroes, I can name a few, Bob VK6ZGN, John VK6RX and Rob VK6LD, but there are plenty of others whom I don't know and who have yet to stick up their hand to say, I was there. Regardless, thank you. Anyway, I'm hosting my weekly net, F-troop. A curious thing is occurring. Two of the stations are emitting a tone during their transmission. I'm pretty hot on how things sound, so I ask. We talk about it for a bit when Allen VK6XL comes in and tells us that according to his spectrum analyser it's a 1 kHz tone with harmonics and it's on all transmissions, just audible on two. This starts a conversation about spectrum analysers when Allen mentions that he's using an audio spectrum analyser, a piece of software running on his computer. The software has a copyright from 1999 and based on the documentation I saw, has lots of excellent functionality. I might even be able to run it on a Linux machine using WINE, but that's an adventure for another day. Randall VK6WR points out that I could use the spectrum display on Audacity. This is a much more current piece of software, but it's not intended for real-time use, it's what I use to edit the audio after recording my podcast. Not even sure if the spectrum display can show during recording, I've never tried. In the past I've used SoX, the Swiss Army knife of sound processing to create sonograms, but that too isn't real-time. Then it hits me. I have a real-time tool. I've been playing with it for weeks. GNU Radio. Surely it has a spectrum display, and indeed it does, several. So, I already have a tool, purpose built for processing signals, that can do all the things I'm looking for and some I've not yet imagined. Before I proceed, I'll remind you that we're in the middle of the Bald Yak project, so named because by the time we're done there won't be much hair left, if any. In case you're unfamiliar, the Bald Yak project aims to create a modular, bidirectional and distributed signal processing and control system that leverages GNU Radio. So, boldly clicking about, I set on the notion of making a block called "fosphor" work. Depending on which description you use, it's an Open Source, GPU-accelerated FFT and Waterfall display tool. What that means is that it uses a graphics processor to do the heavy lifting and has the ability to show signal levels across frequencies and on a waterfall display. Apparently it's a block for RTSA-like spectrum visualisation. I'm fairly sure that doesn't mean Railway Technical Society of Australasia or has any relationship with Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty or the Road Transport and Safety Agency of Zambia. I'll admit that I didn't see the GPU part of that description until several days later. Had I seen it at the time, I would likely have carefully backed away and shelved the idea, but that's all water under the bridge. To cut to the chase, I have yet to make this show a single pixel. I smelled trouble for the first time when I discovered a post asking if anyone had gotten this to work on a current release of Debian. I came across a lovely post by what appears to be the author helping some hapless user, and I'll confess that's the camp I'm currently in, to make it work. I have no doubt that I can make it work, but that's going to take some effort. Now, at this point you might ask me why I wasted your time with this tale of woe? Well, the answer is simple. This is what "Yak Shaving" looks like. You solve a thousand little problems, one at a time, and if you manage to keep track of what you're doing and why, you can get stuff done. This applies here, but it also applies in your life, in radio, in antenna building, in making a contact, in participating in a contest, in activating a park. Each activity reveals myriad issues that you'll each need to resolve. The more practice you have at this, the better you'll get. I will point out that for me it's not without stress. When I go though intractable problems I'm often as grumpy as a bear with a sore tooth whilst my brain is running like a hamster in a wheel generating kilowatts of power. This too shall pass. Oh, because I know it's bothering you. RTSA, Real Time Spectrum Analyser, obvious, right? I'm Onno VK6FLAB

Welcome to The Mettleset Podcast! This is Episode 2 of our special three-part series taking you behind the scenes at the UAE Tour Women—the Middle East's first and only Women's WorldTour race, held from February 6-9, 2025. I go BTS in Human Powered Health team's support car during Stage *, the final stage of the race. Riding alongside Communications Director Oscar Skarsbrook and Soigneur Jose Leite—also known as a swanny,the ultimate Swiss Army knife of a cycling team—I get an exclusive look at the inner workings of a pro cycling team on race day. In our support van chat, we discuss:

Miracles can happen on Christmas Eve.Based on a post by auguy86, in 2 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at My First Time. Ken Dix flipped through the TV guide at a moderate pace; “500 channels, and nothing but Christmas specials on.”Finding nothing but disappointment at every turn. As it was Christmas Eve, every show was a mushy feel-good romp spouting lines about family and goodwill to others. None of that spoke to Ken in the slightest.“Ken?” a voice came from the kitchen.“What's up, Mom?”“I've got my hands full with making everything for dinner tonight, but I'm going to run short on a couple of ingredients,” Helen Dix said, poking her head into the living room. “Can you run to the store real quick for me please?”“Sure thing,” Ken replied, seeing as he had nothing better to do.“Great, thank you. I made a list on the counter for you. The store should be open for another hour or two. The main things would be the eggs; I don't have enough to finish my famous chess pie. If they have tea by the gallon, grab one sweet and one unsweet. The rest are great if you find them, but not essential.”“Got it,” Ken said as he took the list from the counter.Heading out to his car, Ken cranked up his Honda Civic and pulled out of the driveway. As he made his way into town, Ken reflected on his current situation. Though he loved his mom, being home for the holidays was always nerve-wracking for him. His hometown of Alpharetta, Georgia was crawling with former high school classmates of his, people he'd just as soon never see again. But up at MIT, he was actually among peers that he could relate to on an intellectual level. Not that he'd made that many friends up there. As a nineteen-year-old freshman, he was still stuck in the same boring math and science classes as everyone else. He couldn't wait until he could start his health sciences training. Maybe then he could meet some decent people, perhaps of the female variety.Ken soon arrived in the parking lot of the local Kroger. It was soon obvious that the place was packed with last-minute shoppers, all trying to find that one final ingredient they were missing. Locking his car, Ken sauntered into the store, grabbing a shopping basket along the way. He found the shelves of the store well picked over, striking out on the nonessential items on his mom's list. Making his way to the drinks aisle, he was pleased to see that the store was keeping the gallon jugs of tea well stocked for the holidays, and picked up a pair.Ken soon arrived in the refrigerated section of the store. Almost every shelf was empty, but he did manage to find one last carton of six eggs, just what his mom needed. Depositing the carton in his shopping basket, Ken made his way back to the front of the store, checking out in the express lane. He gripped the shopping bags tightly, being careful that the eggs weren't harmed from the swinging of the bags. Arriving back in the parking lot, he was pleasantly surprised to see one of his former classmates, Jacqueline Brown. As he approached, she saw him coming.“Ken? Kenneth Dix?”She was extremely pretty, as was befitting one of the most popular girls in school, and kept her chestnut-brown hair cut just below her jawline. Her soft, warm facial features and bubbly personality belied the sharp intellect hiding underneath. She and Ken had been partners a few times in various subjects, and he had helped craft her entrance essay to the University of Washington. This earned her a full ride scholarship. In spite of her popularity, they had worked well together, and Ken even dared to call her a friend, at least in his own mind. They had never hung out on a social basis; her circle of friends would never have let her live that down. Still, times had changed. They were both out of high school, after all. What could it hurt to ask?“Jacqueline? Wow, I never thought I'd see you back here. Thought you escaped to cooler climates?”“Yeah, Seattle is nice, but nothing beats Christmas at home,” she replied, adjusting her UW sweatshirt. “You back for the same reason?”“Uh huh. Mom pretty much insisted. She won't settle for anything less than a full family gathering on Christmas Eve. I'm just grabbing a few last things for her. But yeah, it's great seeing you again. You, uh, you look good.”“Um; thanks,” she replied with hesitation.“I'm, uh, gonna be home for a couple of weeks. Would you want to, I don't know, hang out sometime? Maybe grab a bite to eat? My treat.”“Well, Ken, that's sweet of you to ask.” she said almost to herself. As she paused, her eyes suddenly lit up as if she had gotten an idea. “Alright! Here, let me give you my number.” She scribbled a series of digits down on a scrap piece of paper, writing her name next to them. “I'll, um, talk to you later, I guess?”“Sounds great!”Ken couldn't believe it; he had actually done it! He had asked out the prettiest girl he had ever known! Moreover, she had given him her number! Things were definitely looking up.“Dick!” a voice behind them yelled.Ken turned, immediately recognizing Jason Brown, Jacqueline's fraternal twin brother, along with his two flunkies, Brian and Barrett Sullivan. Jason had been the star quarterback at his high school, and the Sullivan boys were his best offensive linemen. They often served as his muscle off the football field, as well. Ken was intimately familiar with these three, as they had made it their mission in high school to make his life a living hell. Being stuffed in lockers, having his wallet stolen, all were commonplace with them. The three approached, attempting to appear imposing, which they were from the perspective of the ever-scrawny Ken.“I've got nothing to say to you guys,” Ken muttered as they approached.“Well I've got something to say to you, Mr. Kenny Dick,” Jason growled.“Just shut up and leave me alone,” Ken replied, his blood boiling at the use of Jason's longtime nickname for him.“No! You shut the fuck up and listen!” Jason said, grabbing Ken by the collar of his tee-shirt and flinging him against his car. In the process, Ken dropped his shopping bags, the jugs of tea landing directly on the egg carton.“Jason! Stop it!” Jacqueline protested.Undeterred, Jason threatened. “Listen fuck-wad, you stay the hell away from my sister!”“She's an adult, dickhead! She can have anyone she wants as a friend!” Ken protested.“You don't belong on the same Planet as her! You're nothing'! A pathetic sack of guts your dumbass mother decided to give a name to! Know what? Just do us all a favor and drop dead!”Enraged at the insult to his mom, Ken swung a wild haymaker at his assailant, but Jason was more than ready, pinning Ken's arm back against his car. Jason then delivered a crushing punch to Ken's gut, dropping him down to his knees. Before leaving, Jason knelt down next to his gasping victim.“Next time, I won't be so nice. Next time; I might just kill you myself. See ya around. Dick.” Turning to his sister, Jason said, “Come on, time to go home.”Jacqueline looked down at the pitiful form of Ken before muttering, “Sorry, Ken.”The trio of boys sauntered off across the parking lot, laughing and high-fiving at their antics. Jacqueline followed right behind them. Ken picked himself up and inspected his groceries, discovering the crushed eggs in his bag. Swearing and cursing, he grabbed the misshapen carton and went to throw it in a nearby trash can.“No chess pie tonight.”As Ken returned to his car and began his drive home, Jason and his flunkies watched on from his car, still pleased with their efforts.“You shouldn't have done that,” Jacqueline said in a lecturing tone.Jason turned to face his sister. “I do what I gotta do, Jacqueline. That fuck-wad has no business getting friendly with you. He needs to learn his place.”“Be that as it may, I can take care of myself,” she replied firmly.“Take care of yourself? Wait; you didn't?”“I did. Jason, someday you'll learn that there are more subtle and effective ways to ward off undesirables. Trust me, Ken won't bother me ever again.”Back at Home.Upon arriving back home, Ken couldn't bring himself to tell his mom about the incident with the eggs. He instead told her that the store had run out altogether. She had spent many sleepless nights in the past worrying about the constant bullying her son was subjected to in school. Ken didn't want to give her anything else to worry about. By this time, has uncles had started arriving, and the living room was soon filled with the sounds of football games. In Ken's mind, these were no more thought provoking that the mindless Christmas specials he had found earlier. Ken went up to his room to take a hot shower, as well as get some alone time in the process. As he stripped down, he saw a bruise beginning to form on his stomach from Jason's punch. He winced in pain as he touched the tender skin.Shit; that's not going away for a while.Ken took some Tylenol for the pain before stepping into the shower. The hot water helped relax his body, and the steam gradually built up, clearing his mind a bit. He finished after a while and, after making sure his door was shut, flopped facedown onto his bed. After laying there for around an hour or so, his mom finally called him down to rejoin the family for dinner.Taking his seat at the table, Ken glanced around the room at his various family members. His mom had two older brothers, Lee and Stan. Though Lee was tall and still relatively youthful looking at forty-five, Stan was shorter and beginning to bald as he approached fifty. Still, both of them had one notable thing in common as far as Ken was concerned: they were both still jocks at heart. Ken had never known his father; it had always just been him and his mom. He could tell that his uncles tried to be male role models for him, but their efforts were usually ill-conceived attempts to “man him up.” Never once did they understand his introverted tendencies, and always tried to get him to be more of a people person. After a while, Ken stopped paying their advice any attention.It was striking to Ken how similar Lee and Stan's families were. They had both married beautiful, blonde cheerleaders, and now both had sixteen-year-old daughters, both of whom were among the most popular girls in school. It all sickened Ken; they were just perpetuating the stereotype of pretty and popular being the be-all, end-all in life. As the family ate, Ken remained silent for the most part. The adults were engrossed in discussions about their jobs, and the two daughters were giggling and playing on their phones the entire time. None of this was relevant to Ken.“You know, I saw something interesting today,” Lee said as dessert was being brought out. “I was at Kroger filling up my car, and saw you in the main parking lot, Ken. Looked like you were, uh, having some words with a few guys out there.”Shit! He saw that?Not wanting to worry his mom, Ken replied, “It; it was nothing.”“Nothing, eh? Is that why that punk punched you in the gut?”With a worried look on her face, Helen asked, “Ken, sweetie, what is he talking about?” She walked around the table to Ken's seat and lifted up his shirt, seeing the bruise on his abdomen. “Was it that Jason boy again?”“Mom, just let it go.”“No! Ken, you know I worry about you!”“You worry about Me? I think you need to worry more about your brother!” Ken shouted, his anger exploding at last. “Right, Uncle Lee? Come on, you see your own nephew being ganged up on in a parking lot, yet you do nothing to help him out?!”“A man's gotta learn to fight his own battles,” Lee replied in a calm voice.“No. You want to know what a man does? A man sticks up for his Family! No. Matter. What! You stood there and watched your own nephew get beaten up. That says a hell of a lot more about you than it does me. And if that's family; I don't want any part of this one.”Without a word, Ken stood and left the dining room. He then grabbed his MIT hoodie and headed for the front door. As he was about to get into his car and drive off, he saw to his frustration that his uncles' cars were parked in the driveway behind him, blocking him in. Cursing under his breath, he prepared to leave on foot.“Ken! Come back inside, please!” Helen called after him, running down the driveway.“No. I've got to go out; clear my head.”“Ken, it's Christmas Eve. Please, come be with your family.”“Mom, aside from you, not a single person in that house feels like family to me,” Ken replied coldly. “I'll; I'll call you after while.”Ken walked off into the cold Georgia night, not knowing for sure where to go or what to do. Nobody else was out, as they were all at home with their families. Remembering the square in historic downtown Alpharetta, he decided to head in that direction. Maybe the quiet walk would do him some good.Arriving in the town square, Ken walked along the sidewalks for a bit, peering into the darkened windows of the various shops and restaurants. Everything looked so different to him with everyone gone for the day; it all seemed so peaceful. As he continued to walk, he soon saw City Hall in the distance. In front of the building was a large green space, which was teeming with a surprising amount of activity for it being Christmas Eve. Ken moved closer, now spying a large gathering of people sitting on picnic blankets, all bundled up in coats and hats. Ahead of them, a large screen projected the classic film, It's a Wonderful Life.Though Ken was never into the Christmas cheer, as it were, he felt strangely drawn to watch a few minutes of the film from a distance. He soon began to regret that decision, as the movie had reached the point where George Baily had an arrest warrant out for him, lashing out at his family in anger. Watching him get drunk and punched in a bar fight, Ken began to feel sick with anger. Despite all his efforts to help better the world around him, the universe conspired against George Baily; just as it seemed to be conspiring against Ken. Unable to watch a moment more, he turned and walked into the nearby park.Again alone with his thoughts, Ken sat on a bench near the fountain in the center of the park. He contemplated many things, as he often did in solitude. He thought about his piss poor excuse for a family, intent on changing him into what they say he should be. If only they could love him as he is. He thought about Jason Brown, a perpetual asshole that managed to get all the beautiful women his heart desired. If only the universe would serve up his just desserts, rather than conspiring against Ken. Sighing in frustration, he stuffed his freezing hands into his jeans pockets.Jacqueline!Feeling the scrap of paper still in his pocket, Ken suddenly felt a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dreary day. He needed something, anything to lift his spirits, and hearing her kind, sweet voice might just do it. Hell, he didn't even care anymore if she was interested in him in a romantic sense; he just needed someone to listen and understand him. Digging out his phone, he dialed the number. After a single ring, a message began to play, seeming to be read by a game show host.“Congratulations! You've reached Live 95.5 FM's world-famous Loser Line! Live 95.5; featuring the best entertainment in Seattle! If you've reached this message, you have attempted to hit on a girl Way out of your league! That poor young lady wants nothing to do with you, but you just couldn't help creeping on her! That's where we come in! Now you know what a loser you really are! So leave the girl alone, loser! You're doing everyone a favor! If you'd like to leave a message for the world-famous Loser Line, begin speaking at the tone!”Beep!Ken hung up the phone in quiet disbelief. How could he have been so wrong about Jacqueline? They had worked so well together in school, and he even considered her a friend! She always spoke so kindly to him, how could this have happened? Was she really as nasty and shallow as her dumbass brother? Was she really just that good of an actress? As he pondered all this, Ken's rage finally exploded out of him.“That two-faced bitch! Who the fuck does she think she is?! I trusted her! Hell, she would never have gotten a full scholarship without my help! All I ever did was Like her! And after all that, she doesn't even have the decency to turn me down to my face?! What The Fucking Hell? At least her brother was honest about his disdain. She's far worse! I can't imagine how evil she'd be if a person actually offended her?”Slumping back down onto the park bench, every thought that entered Ken's mind brought him lower. Jason was an ass, but then again, he didn't know how to act any different. Uncle Lee was a moron, but then again, he had no malicious intent. But Jacqueline; she was the last straw. He had trusted her, opened up to her, and she repaid him by committing the single most cruel and senseless act Ken could ever imagine. Everything was crashing down around him. As he continued to sulk, Jason's words entered into his mind once more.“I should just do everyone a favor and drop dead; is that what you want, Jacqueline? Seems like you agree with your brother, or you wouldn't have given me that number.”Ken reached into his pocket, withdrawing a folding knife. It had been a high school graduation present to him from his grandfather, before he passed a few months later. A far cry from the typical Swiss Army knife, he unfolded the shiny, four-inch blade, which stood in beautiful contrast to the wooden handle. Inscribed in the wood were Ken's initials. He had not used it for anything yet, never had any need to. As he stared at his reflection in the blade, Ken kept replaying Jason's cruel words in his mind, to do the world a favor and drop dead.“Maybe that's not such a bad idea.” Ken mumbled.Just as he took a firm grip on the handle, preparing to take the knife to his throat, an unfamiliar voice came from off to the side.“Hey!”Gabrielle's Christmas night.Gabrielle Libertine relaxed in a lawn chair, savoring the crisp, cold air of Christmas Eve. This was her favorite time of the year, and being able to enjoy an outdoor showing of her favorite Christmas film, It's a Wonderful Life, made it even better. It all fit in perfectly with her life philosophy: live for happiness. Not only her own, but as much as could be had for the world around her too.“You want the moon? Just say the word, and I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down.”“Oh, Jimmy Stewart, you charmer you.” Gabby sighed.Soon, her emotions welled up as the hopeless romantic that was George Bailey began to succumb to the pressures and injustices of life. He had blamed his own uncle for destroying their business, lashed out at his wife and children in anger, and gone crawling to his hated rival for a loan. The hardest scenes for her to watch were always the bar fight and the car crash. Still, she always stuck it out. The best was yet to come.Just as George stood atop the bridge, Gabby caught sight of something out of the corner of her eye. A young man of about nineteen or twenty was watching the movie from a distance away, leaning against a tree near the road. His face twisted in angst as he saw the pain on display in the film, and he soon spun around, walking into the nearby park. Gabby couldn't explain why, but something compelled her to follow him and make sure he was okay.Collecting her lawn chair, she walked along the perimeter of the green space, soon arriving at the entrance to the park. As she went, she began to hear angry shouting up ahead of her; it sounded like the young man was in distress. After a few minutes, she came upon the fountain situated in the center of the park. On a bench sat the man from earlier, appearing to be deep in thought. By the glow of the lamppost, Gabby could now get a good look at him. He appeared to be of average height, maybe 5'7”, and had shaggy black hair that seemed a bit unkempt. Still, it's color shone in the light of the park, and his white skin provided for quite a striking appearance. A pair of black horn-rimmed glasses framed his face, which combined with his red MIT hoodie to project a very specific image into Gabby's mind. He had to be incredibly intelligent.As she studied him, she saw the young man pull an object out of the pocket of his jeans. Catching a glimpse of something reflective, she could now see that he was holding a small folding knife. Gabby tensed up and wondered if she should run, but soon decided against it; he didn't seem to have even noticed her presence. In fact, the way he looked at the knife was quite unsettling. It was as if he saw that little blade as his best friend in the world. She knew the look in his eyes. She knew what would happen in a moment if she did nothing. Taking a deep breath, Gabby decided to act.“Hey.”Intervention.Ken was startled by the unfamiliar voice. Looking up, he now saw a woman in her early twenties standing across the way. She gazed at him with intent, but for what reason he did not know. Looking back at her, Ken's typical awkwardness began to kick in, as he could see that she was quite beautiful. Dressed warmly in a black winter coat and blue jeans, she wore a grey knit cap over her long blonde hair. Upon first glance, she appeared to be of some sort of Scandinavian descent, or perhaps German, though Ken couldn't be sure. His mouth went dry as he tried to find the words to speak.“Everything okay?” she asked.“Uh; fine. Why do you, um; why do you ask?”Smiling, she replied, “I saw you over on the green, watching the movie. By the look on your face, you were having a tough time with it. When I saw you walk off towards the park, I felt I should come and see if anything was wrong.”“No, nothing's wrong.”“Good. Then I shouldn't be concerned about the way you're looking at that knife of yours, right?”Shaking his head, Ken answered, “I'm not going to hurt you. Promise.”“That's not what I'm concerned about.”“Wha; what do you mean?” Ken asked, his eyes growing wide.“I've seen that look before,” she said, taking a couple of steps closer. “I am, sadly, all too familiar with it. You were about to hurt yourself, weren't you?”“You don't know a thing about me, lady,” Ken muttered, preparing to leave.“I don't have to know anything about you to be concerned,” she fired back.“Concerned,” Ken snorted. “How could you be concerned about me? You don't even know me!”“Easily rectified. Gabrielle Libertine. My friends call me Gabby,” she said, sticking out her hand with a warm smile. When he didn't respond, she smirked and continued, “This is the part where you tell me your name.”Sighing, he replied, “Ken. Ken Dix.”“A pleasure, Ken,” she said as they shook hands.“So; Gabrielle, eh? You supposed to be my Clarence or something?”With a playful gasp, she responded, “Oh my God! Does that mean you're Jimmy Stewart?! I've had the biggest crush on you for Years!”Ken gave a nervous laugh. “Alright, alright, I walked into that one. But in all seriousness.”“No, I'm not a Guardian Angel or the Word of God or anything like that. Just an average person like you.” Motioning to the bench, she asked, “May I?”“Sure, I guess,” Ken answered, scooting to the edge.“Thanks.” Taking a seat, she continued, “So tell me this, Ken: why would you want to hurt, maybe kill yourself?”His face twisted in pain. “You don't want to know.”“I do. Believe me, I do.”Sighing with reluctance, Ken relented and began to tell Gabby of the events of the day. He started with Jacqueline and Jason, then the confrontation with his uncle, and finally the fake phone number showing Jacqueline's true colors. Through it all, Gabby sat in silence, maintaining eye contact and nodding whenever appropriate. At last, he finished his story, and Gabby could feel her heart breaking within her chest.“Ken; I'm so sorry. I can feel the pain in your voice. No one deserves what you've gone through today. I know it's of little help, but I do understand what you're going through.”“Understand?” Ken said, incredulous. “How could a girl like you understand any of this? I mean, look at you. You're gorgeous, and I bet you've always been popular. Just like Jacqueline. Just like Jason. Just like Uncle Lee. None of you could ever imagine the world I live in.”With a stern look on her face, she replied, “I'm going to choose to let that slide, considering everything you've told me. Still, you need to know that what you just said was quite hurtful. Almost as hurtful as the things that have been said to you today.”Ken recoiled. He knew she was right. “I'm; I'm sorry. You're right; I should never have said that. You've been nothing but nice to me tonight.”“Apology accepted,” Gabby said with a smile. “Humility is a rare trait in men these days. Hang on to that.”Ken thought she might be mocking him, but bit his tongue nonetheless. He had already insulted her once, and he wasn't going to chance a second time.Seeking to turn the conversation to happier topics, she asked, “M I T, huh? You're an awful long way from home, aren't you?”“Huh? Oh, the hoodie. Yeah, I'm a freshman there this year, just home on break right now.”“Nice. Major?”“Health sciences. I want to go to medical school after MIT, though I'm still figuring out a specialty.”“Plenty of time to decide that. I'm sure you'll find the right career path,” she said with a grin.As nice as it was to talk about a familiar topic, a few things still bugged Ken's mind to no end. “I still can't figure it out; why would Jacqueline do this?”Frowning, Gabby replied, “Some people are cruel. Often the ones that are the cruelest disguise it with a kind, warm public demeanor. Jacqueline sounds like she fits that mold to a T.”“And she hid it all that time while we were in school?”“You were useful at the time, in her mind. She wasn't going to chance losing that. Once she got what she needed, she had no more reason to hide her true feelings.”“Yeah, but still. Why be all friendly to me in the store?”“In her twisted mind, she probably felt she was doing you a favor. She wanted to ensure you never tried to contact her again. To a cruel person like her; that's her idea of doing you a kindness,” Gabby replied sadly. “We just have to hope that there's enough real kindness in this world to counteract such cruelty.”Now noticing a silver cross hanging from her neck, Ken pointed to it and asked, “I guess this the part where you start lecturing me about suicide? That I'm being selfish and trying to go against God's plan?”“No,” she replied with simplicity.“No?”“No. Ken, I meant it when I said that I've seen that look before. I know better than most that suicidal thoughts are rarely that simple. There's no switch that can turn them off. It's a tide that must be turned back, bit by bit.”Stunned, Ken started to see that this woman understood what was important in life. Realizing he still had the knife in his hand, he folded it closed and put it back in his pocket.“Bit by bit,” she said with a smile. “My car's around the corner. Is there somewhere I can take you? Where do you live?”“I'm not going home. Not yet,” Ken replied. “Not with my uncles still there.”“No problem. I'm not going to force you.” Thinking a moment, she continued, “It's pretty cold out here. Why don't you come back to my place for a bit?”“That's; unnecessary. I'm fine on my own.”“Nice try, but no cigar,” she said. “I'm not leaving you alone with that knife, mister. And I'm certainly not leaving you alone on Christmas Eve. Nobody should be alone for the holidays.”“Thanks, but; won't your husband mind?”“He would, if I were married.”“Boyfriend?”“Nope, just my townhouse and me. Pretty cozy, all things considered. No problems with you coming over, but I do have one condition.”“And what's that?”Smirking, Gabby replied, “You call your mom right now and tell her you're okay.”Hesitating a moment, Ken soon relented. “Fine.” Tapping his phone, Ken waited as it rang. “Hey Mom, it's me; Yeah, I'm okay; No, seriously. I'm fine; Yeah I'm just hanging with a friend. I probably won't be back ‘til tomorrow; I will; Love you too; Bye.”“See? Now that wasn't so bad, was it?” Gabby teased him.Eying her, Ken asked. “You're seriously okay with bringing me to your home?”“Positive.”Taking his hand, Gabby led him to her car.Gabby's guest.The drive had been silent for the most part. Ken was still trying to comprehend everything that was happening. Who was this woman? Why would she go to such great lengths for a stranger she didn't even know? Gabby seemed to pick up on this, refraining from prodding him for any further conversation. She could tell he was still processing the events of the day. Soon, they arrived at her townhouse complex and pulled into her garage.“Come on in, make yourself at home,” she said as she turned on the lights. “Can I offer you something to drink? Coffee? Hot chocolate?”“Hot chocolate sounds good, thanks.”“Coming right up!”As she hung her hat and jacket up on a rack, Ken couldn't help but stare. He now saw that she wasn't just a pretty face; her entire body was sublime. She wore a tight burgundy sweater and a pair of tight, form-fitting jeans. This ensemble only served to accent her body even further. Her hourglass figure was delectable, her slim waist contrasting with her curvy hips and ample bust. She was also just as tall as him, perhaps a bit taller, with legs for miles. Though Ken had fantasized about some of his classmates, none of them could come anywhere close to Gabby. She was a woman, not a girl, and in the prime of her life no less.“Here you go,” she said, handing Ken a mug.After blowing on the hot drink, he took a sip, feeling the warm liquid spreading through his body. “Thanks,” he sighed.“No problem,” she replied with a smile. “Come on, let's go relax in the den.”She led him into an intimate area with a sofa and a loveseat. The only illumination came from the twinkling multicolored lights on her Christmas tree in the corner. As Ken took in the relaxing surroundings, smelling the delicious scent of her Frazier fir tree, Gabby stepped over to the fireplace opposite the sofa. Flipping a switch, she soon had a comfortable fire roaring from the gas logs. She then sat on the sofa, placing her mug on the side table and patting the spot next to her.“Come sit. I promise I don't bite,” she said with a playful grin.“Um, okay.” he mumbled, scooting as close to the armrest as he could to give Gabby plenty of space.“Tell me about M I T,” she inquired. “You mentioned you want to go into health sciences. Does that include medical school?”“Uh, yeah with any luck. Harvard would be my top choice, but I don't know if I could afford it. But assuming so, my dream has always been to be a brain surgeon.”“Brain surgeon?! That's so cool! They're like; the most badass of all the badass doctors! Not just surgeons, brain surgeons!” Gabby gushed.“It's, uh, not that big a deal,” Ken replied as he blushed with embarrassment.“Well, I could totally see you as a brain surgeon. Don't ever give up on it.”“Thanks.”“So, what then for you, Dr. Dix? What happens once you reach your dream?”Ken began to feel a strange amount of comfort with this woman, and started to open up to her. “Honestly; I don't know. I mean even if I become a brain surgeon, I'm still hopeless around girls. Maybe Jason's right. I'm gonna die a virgin.” Realizing what he had confessed to her, he turned to Gabby and blurted out, “Not that it's your problem, or anything. S-sorry, I just; I shouldn't have gone that far.”Gabby just smiled and moved closer to him, brushing her hand against his arm.“Don't worry about it. You have goals, both personal and professional, but aren't sure exactly how to achieve them. So you're a virgin. That's nothing to be embarrassed about, and it's healthy to express your anxiety about it. That can help you overcome your fears. In all seriousness, I think you underestimate yourself, Ken.”“Underestimate myself?”“Of course,” Gabby replied. “You're smart, considerate, polite, you even held the car door for me earlier! Any girl you'd want to be with is gonna swoon at traits like that. I can also tell that you still think of yourself as unattractive, but I disagree. You wear glasses, yes, but that doesn't make you a dork. Your hair is a little shaggy, but not greasy or anything. You may not have a tan, but your skin complexion is damn near flawless. You have nothing to be ashamed of, be it your looks or your personality.”“You're about the only woman who thinks so,” he sighed.“Doubtful, but if it's that big a worry for you, I can give you a couple of pointers, if you like.”“Um, oh, okay I guess.”“Great! Okay, so you definitely give off the ‘geek' vibe, but that's not a bad thing. Don't fight it; own it.”“How?”“Well, you can make just some slight alterations to your outward appearance that can change the way others see you. For example, you could switch to wire-framed glasses instead of your horn-rimmed ones. Your hair is a great color, and would do well in a short, clean-cut style, if I do say so myself. You can also change out your usual t-shirts for some casual polo shirts.”“So; the secret to getting women to notice me is to change who I am?” Ken asked, feeling more than a little offended.Cocking her eyebrow, Gabby replied, “Are you saying your glasses, hair length, and shirt choices define who you are?”“Oh, uh; fair point,” Ken conceded.“See? Humility. Such a rare quality these days,” Gabby said with a grin. “To be honest, all the changes I suggested are things my brother did a couple of years back. He was a complete geek, maybe even bigger than you. The poor boy was helpless around the fairer sex. But after he made these changes, he no longer came off as the socially awkward geek. He came off as a self-assured, confident geek, one who loves himself for who he is. I see that potential in you, Ken.” Grabbing her iPad from the side table, she pulled up a couple of pictures for him. “See? Here's before. And here's after.”“Woah,” Ken marveled. He could see the drastic difference. The guy hadn't done anything to make himself stronger or bulkier, nothing to increase his manliness, but the things he did change just popped in all the right ways. Was it really that simple?“That's great and all, but can new clothes and a haircut get rid of social awkwardness? I still don't have even a shred of confidence around women,” Ken said.“They can help, but a change in your mental confidence is completely based on your willpower. You have to love yourself as much as you want others to love you. If you don't, everyone else will pick up on it.”“Knew there was a catch.”Gabby bit her lip in frustration. There had to be a way she could give him the confidence boost he needed to love himself, but how? Getting one somewhat crazy idea, she moved closer to Ken.“I'm guessing from your previous statements that; you've never kissed a girl before. Is that right Ken?”Poor Ken Dix didn't even know what had hit him. Here he was, sitting with the most beautiful woman he'd ever laid eyes on, and the unthinkable was beginning to happen. She was moving closer, running her fingers through his hair, and now wanted to know if he'd ever been kissed! This was too much, way beyond any of his hottest dreams. Unable to find the words to respond, he managed to slowly nod his head.“Close your eyes,” she instructed in her sweet voice. When he only blinked in reply, she whispered, “Close; your eyes, Ken. Trust me.”Guided by an unseen force, Ken felt compelled to obey her. His eyes finally fluttered closed, and his breathing became more labored in anticipation of what was to come. A small part of him doubted that she was being truthful, thinking that she'd fake him out just like Jacqueline had. Those doubts were soon quashed, as he felt the warm sensation of Gabby's face leaning close to his. He could feel her breathing. He could smell her perfume. If there was a God, Ken prayed, then and there; that He could make this incredible moment last forever.After what felt like eons, Gabby finally released their building tension and touched her lips to Ken's. Her kiss was soft at first, allowing him to savor the new sensations he was feeling. Ken was so terrified and excited all at once that he could barely even move his lips in reply. Not that it mattered to Gabby. She had expected his fear, and made sure to keep her technique simple yet enjoyable. After around thirty seconds, she withdrew at last, her face aglow in the Christmas tree light.“Wow,” Ken managed to mutter as he opened his eyes. He soon noticed that he couldn't see Gabby at all; his glasses had fogged up from their kiss.“Here, let's just take these off,” Gabby said with a giggle. She slipped his glasses off and laid them on her side table. “Now then, since we've gotten your first kiss out of the way, ready to really dive in?”“Dive in to what?” Ken asked, his nerves beginning to fray.“Kissing, silly! You do know there's much more to it than what we just did, right?”“More?”“Of course! Look, one day you'll get the prime opportunity to kiss a special lady, and I want you to be ready when that chance comes.”To be continued in part 2, based on a post by auguy86, in 2 parts for Sex Stories.

Create Your Happiness Support System:Ready to dive back into the good vibes? We're shaking things up with a revisit of the fan-fave episode about choosing your life support systems for happiness! It's all about crafting your personal toolkit to keep that joy meter cranked up, even when life throws its wild curveballs. Think of it as your happiness survival kit—packed with everything from fun activities to spiritual practices that keep you feeling like a million bucks. I'm sharing my top tips on how to create this amazing support system that's all about YOU, so you can bounce back from the tough stuff like a rubber ball! So grab your favourite drink, kick back, and let's whip up some happiness magic together—because who doesn't want to thrive, not just survive?The Details:Just when you thought it was time to hang up those headphones and call it a day, the Choosing Happy Podcast swoops back in with a bang, bringing you the golden nugget of happiness wisdom—Choosing Your Life Support Systems for Happiness, Part 2! This episode is a delightful blast from the past as it revisits the most popular episode ever. Why? Because happiness is like a garden: you gotta tend to it! Heather dives into the nitty-gritty of building your very own happiness toolkit. Think of it as your emotional Swiss Army knife, ready for any chaos the world throws your way. With storms and power outages threatening to rain on our parade (literally!), it's vital that we have our joy-jumping strategies locked and loaded. From music playlists that make you shake your groove thing, to mindfulness practices that could zen out a grizzly bear, this episode serves up a smorgasbord of resources to keep us afloat in the tumultuous seas of life.It's not just about surviving; it's about thriving, folks! Our fearless host emphasises the beauty of adaptability and resilience in times of uncertainty. Imagine having a toolbox filled with your favourite jams, uplifting affirmations, and even that one hilarious cat video that gets you giggling every time. By crafting these life support systems, we not only prepare ourselves for the rough patches but also add a sprinkle of joy to our everyday lives. Who knew that choosing happiness could be as fun as a day at the amusement park? So grab that metaphorical toolkit, and let's build a fortress of positivity together!In the grand finale of this episode, we're reminded that happiness is a journey, not a destination. It's about celebrating the little victories, dancing like no one's watching, and indulging in those guilty pleasure hobbies that light up your soul. Whether it's revisiting an old favourite book or diving headfirst into a new adventure, the key takeaway here is to embrace the chaos with a smile. As we gear up for the 100th episode, let's carry forward the message that happiness is something we can choose, cultivate, and share, and let's make this journey one for the books!Takeaways: Creating a personalised happiness toolkit is essential for navigating life's ups and downs. Switching off the news can help you maintain a positive mindset and focus on joy. Physical activity, even a simple superhero pose, can dramatically shift your mood and energy levels. Reflecting on your values is crucial to stay motivated and align your actions with your true desires. Engaging in joyful hobbies and childlike activities can bring back the spark in your daily life. Building a life support system encourages resilience and adaptability during uncertain times. Chapters:00:20 - Revisiting Popular Episodes01:17 - Introduction to Life Support Systems for Happiness05:50 - Understanding Motivation and Values11:51 - Creating Positive Energy Through Mindfulness...

Running a startup? I bet you feel like a human Swiss Army knife sometimes—doing everything from marketing to operations, while trying not to lose your mind in the process. But here's the thing: doing it all yourself? That's a fast track to burnout city. Enter: Virtual Assistants (VAs). These people can help lighten the load, but there's an art to finding the right one and making sure you're getting the most out of them. So, how do you hire the perfect VA? How do you hand off tasks without feeling like things will fall apart? And, more importantly, how do you free up your time to focus on what really matters—like scaling your business? In this episode, we're diving into how to build a killer virtual team that's got your back. I'll break down how to figure out what tasks to delegate, where to find the best VAs, and how to get them up to speed so they're basically running things while you do the big picture stuff. -- Join the wait list for my spring 2025 Get Ready to Pitch workshop where you'll get the coaching, tactics, and materials to be ready to pitch any investor! https://www.seedmoneypodcast.com/waitlist2025 -- About Your Host Jayla Siciliano, Shark Tank entrepreneur turned real estate investor, excels in building brands, teams, and products. CEO of a bi-coastal luxury short-term rental company, she also hosts the Seed Money Podcast where she's on a mission to help early-stage entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality!  Connect: Website: https://seedmoneypodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaylasiciliano/ Subscribe and watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@seedmoneypodcast/      Please rate, follow and review the podcast on https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seed-money/id1740815877 and https://open.spotify.com/show/0VkQECosb1spTFsUhu6uFY?si=5417351fb73a4ea1/! Hearing your comments and questions helps me come up with the best topics for the show!   The information in this podcast is educational and general in nature and does not take into consideration the listener's personal circumstances. Therefore, it is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized financial, legal, or tax advice.  

As we dive back into this new year we are going to explore some of the basic time management tools that should be in your everyday tool belt.  One of the best time management tools that you should be using every day is batching! It's my favorite go-to time management tool, the Swiss Army knife of tools!  Today we will talk through what batching is exactly, why it's my favorite tool, and what tasks you can batch to save hours in your week.  So pop in those ear buds and listen up as you toss in a load of laundry!  Grab the LA Bundle, 100% donated to help LA, only offered until February 14th! Hurry!  https://michellebyrd.myflodesk.com/la-bundle   I pray this blesses you! Michelle PS. If you need some extra accountability or help with productivity hacks, time management tools, mapping out a more efficient daily or weekly schedule, time blocking and so much more. We will break down what isn't working in your schedule, create new personalized goals for you, and determine the next new steps you need to take to have more freedom and live with more joy and laughter!  Grab a coaching call with me at: Email: contact@byrdmichelle.com website: www.byrdmichelle.com Free Productivity Planner - my gift to you! Just go to my website Come join our Facebook Group: Home Management for Working Moms - Organization & Time Management

Finding a role for hydrogen in a low-carbon energy economy. Hydrogen has been called the Swiss Army knife of energy, because it has so many potential applications, from home heating to heavy industry. But so far, deployment around the world has been slow. And in recent months there has been a series of setbacks for plans to use clean hydrogen to decarbonise energy systems. So what's the problem? Is it unsuitable infrastructure, policy uncertainty, or fundamental challenges of physics and economics? Does hydrogen really have a role to play in the low-carbon energy system of the future? And if it does, what does the industry need to get there?To find out, host Ed Crooks is joined by Dr Melissa Lott, Partner General Manager in Energy Technologies at Microsoft, and Austin Knight, Vice President for hydrogen at Chevron New Energies. Hydrogen is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it could help us tackle some of the toughest challenges in decarbonisation. It may be expensive, but in some sectors it looks like a more cost-effective solution for achieving net zero than any other option.For some proposed applications, it looks pretty clear that hydrogen is going to be a non-starter. But Austin says there are some sectors where it still has a viable future. Chevron is investing in hydrogen fuel suppliers and fuelling stations for heavy trucks across California, for example. As Melissa says, the infrastructure just isn't there yet to make hydrogen a viable option today. But is it a case of “if” hydrogen becomes a commercial reality, or “when”? Find out here.We want to hear your thoughts and comments, so get in touch. We're on X, at @theenergygang Or on BlueSky @woodmackenzie.bsky.socialSubscribe to the show so you don't miss episodes, out every second Tuesday at 7am ET. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SkySwitch Customer Journey: Understanding and selling SkySwitch's extensive product line, Podcast, The goal is for everyone to be successful Customer Journey Podcast Series “The goal is for everyone to be successful”, Steve Hudson, UCaaS SME II of SkySwitch. “I'm here to help our partners out right from the beginning when they first come on board, all the way. We have a team here that can help them out. I'm here as a technical resource to help our partners succeed.” In this third segment of our SkySwitch Customer Journey series, we dive into product. The challenge is connecting the product with the end user customers, and the shape of the challenge is not always clear. Channel Partners sometimes have limited information on how, when and where to apply available technologies and limited knowledge or technical bandwidth on implementation. Steve and his team work to remove those barriers. And that work begins from the beginning of the partner relationship. In this podcast, we look at SkySwitch's UC Client, which Steve describes as a “Swiss Army knife”, a versatile, robust tool with a lot of problem-solving built in. We look at: Omni-Channel Contact Center Solution Business SMS Solutions Teams Connector - MS Teams connectivity to our PBX Steve also discusses a very vital program of partner education, training, and product demonstrations. In a very tactile industry, partners get to see how products work and learn about their possible applications. That work is designed to reach front-line partner salespeople so that they can begin matching products to the challenges their customers face, and those matches create partner growth. About SkySwitch This is a multipart podcast exploring the SkySwitch customer journey. SkySwitch offers its partner customers a white-label approach, training, support, and many options. SkySwitch is a BCM One company, a UCaaS leader with more than 275 employees, a long-standing presence with integrity in the marketplace and rock-solid technology. Visit www.skyswitch.com SkySwitch Customer Journey https://youtu.be/01kRmtuarjA

In this episode, Doc Danny explores a compelling New York Times article, "You Don't Have to Be Injured to Benefit from Physical Therapy." He discusses the evolving role of physical therapists as proactive health and wellness providers, why the Swiss Army knife analogy fits the profession, and how clinics can position themselves to meet the growing demand for long-term, holistic care. Tune in to learn how to build lifelong patient relationships and the future of PT in a proactive healthcare landscape. Join our 5-Day Challenge at physicaltherapybiz.com/challenge Apply at physicaltherapybiz.com/apply Leave a 5-star review on iTunes if you enjoy the podcast! Encourage a friend to do the same! Join our free PT Entrepreneur Facebook Group at facebook.com/groups/ptentrepreneur

In this episode of the Moonshots Podcast, Mike and Mark explore one of the most essential pillars of human health: sleep. Guided by the groundbreaking research of Dr. Matthew Walker, author of Why We Sleep, the hosts explore why sleep is a critical component of physical and mental performance, emotional well-being, and long-term health.The episode begins by exploring the importance of sleep in memory, learning, and decision-making. Walker explains that sleep is not simply “downtime” but a fundamental process that helps store information and reset the brain for the next day.The hosts then transition into the science of sleep, discussing how aging impacts sleep quality and how a lack of restorative sleep can accelerate cognitive decline. They also cover Walker's research on how insufficient sleep weakens the immune system, increasing your risk of developing chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer.But it's not all science – this episode is packed with practical tips for improving sleep hygiene. Walker outlines simple yet effective strategies to optimize your sleep:✅ Maintain regular sleep patterns✅ Make your room dark and cool✅ Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed✅ Get out of bed if you can't sleep – reset and try againThe hosts conclude with a compelling message from Walker: Sleep is not a luxury – it's a biological necessity. It is your Swiss Army knife for health, affecting every system in your body and brain.

Join host Stewart Foley on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast as he sits down with Tim Antonelli, head of Insurance Multi-Asset Strategy and portfolio manager at Wellington Management. In this episode, Tim shares his 2025 outlook for insurers, focusing on themes like locking in structural income, optimizing surplus portfolios, and navigating regulatory changes.   With insights drawn from over 150 meetings with insurers worldwide, Tim discusses how the industry is evolving, the importance of fighting recency bias, and the growing role of asset-based finance. From managing surplus assets with a Swiss Army knife approach to uncovering yield opportunities in hybrid securities and private placement debt, this episode offers a deep dive into strategies for the year ahead.   Tune in for expert advice on positioning insurance portfolios in a more dynamic, volatile market environment.

Despite having been on the job since just 2020, Georgia Game Warden KP Boatright has received multiple accolades, including the Public Safety Act of Heroism award for rescuing a drowning hunter at great personal risk. We caught up with KP as he accepted the prestigious NAWEOA Torch Award, presented to new officers who demonstrate exceptional ability and initiative. Join us for a chat with another rising star from Georgia DNR! Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here's what we discuss: ·       NAWEOA Torch Award winner ·       Using social media for investigations ·       A suspicious alligator trapper leads to multiple charges ·       “The Swiss Army knife of law enforcement.” ·       Assisting fellow law enforcement officers ·       An online aptitude test suggests a career path ·       “Boneheaded” teenage behavior causes a slight delay ·       A supportive chain of command ·       The importance of different perspectives ·       People generally want to talk if you make them comfortable ·       An upcoming wedding! ·       The ‘dead' alligator that blinked ·       “You never know what you're gonna come across.” ·       Lake Seminole: Georgia's best kept secret Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden's Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches   Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden's Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the final days of the year, we're rebroadcasting some of our favorite shows from 2024. Governor Gavin Newsom calls Jason Elliott his “Swiss Army knife.” Elliott is Newsom's longest serving aide, and he's had his fingers in just about every major issue, from homelessness and housing to COVID, mental health care and regulating AI. As Elliott prepared to leave the administration, he joined Scott and Marisa to reflect on those many years of service in government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom Williams’ journey to Head of Performance and Sport Science for Major League Soccer (MLS) powerhouse, the Los Angeles (LA) Galaxy, began at a crossroads: pursue traditional coaching or medical pathways. As a soccer “Swiss Army knife,” he embraced early sport science alongside coaching, building a career defined by collaboration and innovation. At the Galaxy, Williams is part of a web of support that uses rich data storytelling tailored to stakeholders and players, guiding decisions and infusing value in every encounter. This system drives their three key pillars: winning championships — including their recent record-breaking sixth MLS Cup — developing a robust academy pipeline, and leading innovation. In MLS’s “cultural melting pot,” Williams balances diverse backgrounds and short-term demands like fixture congestion while employing sustainable long-term strategies. With a unique full-time cognitive department and creative approaches like dodgeball warm-ups, he combines trust and ingenuity to elevate performance and presents a blueprint for those exploring emerging sport science. Reach out to Tom on LinkedIn: @tom-williams and X/Twitter: @Williams26Tom | Find Eric on Instagram: @ericmcmahoncscs and LinkedIn: @ericmcmahoncscs   Did you know MLS has a newly mandated Certified Performance and Sport Scientist® (CPSS®) role? Engage with NSCA’s Pro Sport Partner, the Professional Soccer Performance Association (PSPA), on social media to learn more:Instagram: @pspa_performance  X/Twitter: @PSPA_perform LinkedIn: @professional-soccer-performance-associationShow Notes“Our day in the life for us, it's to try and create that web of support, as I said earlier, and be across as many departments, and deliver our key messages specifically to those stakeholders rather than trying to work in isolation.” 12:55 “Be the best person in that role. Like, bring it. If you're the intern, be the best intern that they've ever had. If you're the fifth S&C, then be the best fifth S&C coach they've ever had. Because for me, everything matters all of the time, and those things never go unnoticed. Even though you might not see it eventually, you keep doing that every single day and being that best person. Then you will get there. It's just inevitable.” 28:30 “There's so many sports out there that need an edge. They need something that someone else isn't doing. And if you can provide that gap, then it enhances that team, that performance department, that medical department. It enhances all those things just by bringing that 1% something that's novel.” 29:55

What if there was one piece of fitness equipment that was affordable, didn't take up much space, could get you both strong and flexible, and was fun to use?While that might sound too good to be true, my guest, Pat Flynn, would say you can find all those benefits in the old-school kettlebell. Pat, who's the author of Strong ON!: 101 Minimalist Kettlebell Workouts to Blast Fat, Build Muscle, and Boost Flexibility―in 20 Minutes or Less, calls kettlebells the Swiss Army knife  of workout tools and the minimalist's ultimate secret fitness weapon.Today on the show, we unpack why Pat's such an advocate for bells, but before we get there, we first take a dive into his background in philosophy and why beginning a workout program takes faith. We then talk about how to use kettlebells to get an all-around fit physique, including the three kettlebell weights that make for an ideal starter set, the two best exercises for building muscle, the pyramid-shaped program that can facilitate body recomposition, how to incorporate progressive overload into kettlebell training, which kettlebell exercise Coach Dan John considers “the fat-burning athlete builder,” the “300 Swings Challenge” that will help you take a Bruce Lee approach to fitness, and much more.Resources Related to the PodcastAoM Article: Become Strong Like Bull — The Kettlebell WorkoutAoM Article: How to Perform 4 Kettlebell Exercises — An Illustrated GuideAoM Podcast #295 — Kettlebells and the Psychology of TrainingAoM Article: Strength, Power, Conditioning — How to Master the Kettlebell SwingConnect With Pat FlynnStrong ON! websiteKettlebell Quickies YouTube ChannelPat on IG

On this week's episode, retired Major General Urs Gerber joins the podcast to discuss the current state of inter-Korean relations and what has changed since he served as head of the Swiss Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission (NNSC) in Panmunjom a decade ago. He also talks about the changing role of the NNSC since its formation following the end of the Korean War and the most memorable incident from his time at the inter-Korean border.  Urs Gerber is a retired major general of the Swiss Army. He is also a historian and has worked in strategic intelligence. From Feb. 2012 to Aug. 2017, he served as head of the Swiss Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission in Panmunjom. About the podcast: The North Korea News Podcast is a weekly podcast hosted by Jacco Zwetsloot exclusively for NK News, covering all things DPRK — from news to extended interviews with leading experts and analysts in the field, along with insight from our very own journalists.

Want to try ROUVY? Get a free month on us using the code GTCC1M at this link: https://rouvy.com?utm_source=geraint-thomas-cycling-club&utm_medium=direct-buy&utm_campaign=chasing-goals&utm_term=podcast And make sure you're signed up for our first-ever GTCC x ROUVY ride, on Wednesday December 4th at 5pm (UK time)! Now, if you watched the Tour de France this summer, you will have noticed Jonas Abrahamsen. The man from Norway spent the first half of the race in the polka dot jersey, making breakaway after breakaway for Uno-X. His journey to the top of the sport is a fascinating one. Having started out as a 60kg climber, he's now an 80kg Swiss Army knife of a rider. He dealt with delayed puberty and numerous other complications, before gaining 20kg and becoming an advocate for healthy weight in cycling. He's also a top fella. You'll love this chat. Music courtesy of BMG Music Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices